Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Return of the Bijus ❯ Jounin Exams Part 2 & A Kage Battle ( Chapter 3 )

A/N: Yo! Sorry that I've been kind of neglecting this story, but I really want to get the other stoy progressing. I'll get straight onto the reviews/comments/suggestions:

 

White Alchemist Taya: Yeah, but I had no idea what to expect. Also, if you hide something normal from people for a while, generally if you show it to them, they will think more of it than if you show it to them immediately. Christian? Please. I'm strictly anti-religious. Not that I'm trying to offend people, but I hate all religions with a passion. I was forced into almost every religion at primary school. I could choose the Aethitist class, but that's where the assholes hung out, so I'd rather subject myself to religious BS than that. As for the chain smoking thing, I'd have to agree with you. It seems all characters of anime are immune to smoking, for some odd reason. Sasuke hugging Naruto? In the regular storyline, it'd never happen. In mine, Sasuke isn't a stuck up SOB who only cares about his revenge. Um... Gaara did Konohagure Insen Taijutsu Ogi: Sennin Goroshi. IE, Konoha's Secret Taijutsu Master Art: Thousand Yaers of Pain. Just playing with you, I know you know what it was. However, Gara is a prankster. How could you expect me not to get Naruto to teach it to him? Lol, I bet you're right about Shino and his bugs. I haven't personally made Hash Browns, but I've seen them being made at Hungry Jacks before. It was a while ago, but that's roughly what I remember from it. They might have complained about it, but they both know it's rude to complain about someone's cooking when you're eating at their table. The big day won't be until they've had their own Genin teams for a while. I want them both to train a team each before they tie the knot, settle down and have kids. Purple... Monkey... With... Wings? EH? Lol, catch you round.

 

Conceptor: Awww, only a good chapter? Not a god one? Oh well, we can't have it all I guess. Oh man, you have no idea what good timing your comment came at. This chapter, all hell brakes lose.

 

Naruto's-Shadow: Hmm, I'll see what I can do. I can't make any promises, but I'll try.

 

Korrd: Read White Alchemist Taya's note, it'll tell you when.

 

General Badaxe: You know, for some reason, your name reminds me of the Dark Iron Dwarves from WoW. Anywho, I don't mind if you take ideas from me, just as long as you don't cut and paste huge chunks of my stories and leave them as they were or only adjust them minorly. Basically, cut and paste for say jutsu names, but not entire scenes.

 

WintersMourning: Meh, I really don't like it when people say 'OMG, this is sooo better than that.' For example, saying Playstation 2 is better than Gamecube. I think those people who get caught up in those sorts of arguments need to grow up, because they're still toddlers chucking a tantrum in my eyes. Learn to accept and appreciate everything, and do not compare, that's one of my mottos.

 

TrapedSoul: OMG, I can't believe I put a loophole in my plot that big! GAH! Thanks for pointing it out.

FlameChampion54: Well, the 6 exams in between when Naruto and Yukiko left and when they returned were different. I'm not sure if they're allowed to talk to others about the exam or ont, but that non cannon filler about Ibiki's younger brother was a set of extreme circuimstance, plus it wasn't canon, meaning it never officially happened. Apart from that, I can't recall another time the 10th question was brought up in the entire story.

 

God in a Box: Lol, I'm actually a very good cook, I've just never cooked hash browns before. When I saw the guy chucking a lump of fat into the deep frier, I remember just being able to see some sort of liquid that was a golden colour, like oil. That might have been what it was, I have no idea. Give me a recipe book and I'll cook you anything you want providing I have what I need to cook it. I'm trying to become completely self sufficient in almost every way I can. Becoming a professional author might just be my ticket to doing that. I also needed to learn how to take care of myself, since my brother goes out regularly and my parents go away for about a month every year. It's good experience for learning how to look after my own place when I get one. Well, it's good to hear you liked the chapter.

 

Neotonix: I have to agree with you there. This story is much more likeable than my other one. The other one, I'm almost projecting my personality into Naruto, to see what would happen if I suddenly took over Naruto's body. Thanks for the comment, I'll check out this 'never cut twice' story. To tell you the truth, it sounds remarkably like one of DameWren's stories, Two Halves and Twice Shy. Both of those were excellent. I've actually asked him if he would let me continue to write the story for him, but I haven't recived a response yet apart from an automated one saying he's in south america doing aid work and he'd respond when he got back. Unfortunately,

 

Kin-Ryu Chikara: Thank you. I'm glad you liked it. As per your request, read below :P

 

IMPORTANT: If any of you don't agree with what happens this chapter, then read the bottom A/N. I'll explain why I did what I did then.

 

Legend:

 

'...Thoughts...'

 

“...Japanese...”

 

“...English...”

 

'...Biju Thoughts...'

 

“...Biju Talking in Japanese...”

 

“...Biju Talking in English...”

 

&&&&&&&&&&...Scene Change...&&&&&&&&&

 

The Return of The Bijus:

 

Chapter Three:

 

Jounin Exams, Part 2:

 

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Next Morning, in the Hokage Tower:

 

The 20 Chunins who had participated in the first test of the Jounin exams eagerly awaited for the Hokage Tower to open so they could see the results. Once they got there, they saw 10 people, or two teams had past. The sign read this:

 

'Results for the first test of the Jounin Exam:

 

First Team:

 

Inuzuka Kiba,

 

Yamanaka Ino,

 

Hyuga Hinata,

 

Akimichi Chouji,

 

Aburame Shino.

 

Second Team:

 

Haruno Sakura,

 

Uchiha Sasuke,

 

Saito Sora,

 

Yakushi Yukiko,

 

Uzumaki Naruto.

 

The final test will be held in 5 weeks time, the day after the final matches for the Chunin Exams.'

 

Naruto gave Sasuke a high five and Yukiko a kiss to celebrate. Naruto looked at the other team that had past.

 

“I really hope we get to see you guys in the final match.”

 

Kiba smirked.

 

“We'll make it there alright. We expect the same thing from you.”

 

Naruto shook hands with Kiba.

 

“You're on. Well, we're going to go train for the next 5 weeks.”

 

Ino decided to play along with the banter.

 

“So will we. We won't lose to you!”

 

Naruto laughed good naturedly and smiled at her.

 

“We'll see, Ino, we'll see.”

 

With that, they split up into their teams. Naruto had the perfect idea for Sora.

 

“Sora, Kakashi-Sensei has a very powerful move that I would almost consider a Raiton Jutsu. Only Sasuke and Kakashi know it. We should go talk to him.”

 

Sora nodded and walked with the rest of the team as Naruto led them down the streets of Konoha towards where Naruto had a fair idea of where Kakashi would be. Sure enough, he was standing at the memorial, remembering his lost temmates and friends. He looked up when he felt their presence and smiled.

 

“Yo! What are you guys and girls up to?”

 

Naruto smiled.

 

“We just came to ask a favour, Kakashi-Sensei.”

 

Kakashi's eye half widened in interest.

 

“Hmm? And what would that be?”

 

Naruto smiled a toothy grin at Kakashi.

 

“Well, Sora uses lightning attacks, and I thought the Raikiri would be a perfect adition to her arsanel.”

 

Kakashi looked at Naruto in suspicion.

 

“You want me to teach her my only original move because she uses Raiton jutsus? Naruto, knowing you, you have another reason. What is it?”

 

Sora spoke up.

 

“I want to use it to protect my friends.”

 

Kakashi's eyes widened before smiling.

 

“That's the exact reason I created the jutsu. Did Naruto tell you?”

 

Sora shook her head.

 

“No, but that would be the only reason I would use it for.”

 

Kakashi turned away from the memorial stone and walked up to Sora.

 

“I guess if that's the reason you will use it, I can teach it to you. I still owe Naruto a favour, after all, so this will make us even, hmm?”

 

Naruto nodded, knowing exactly what Kakashi was talking about. 'Think about it. It's not too hard to figure out.' Kakashi motioned for Sora to come with him and began running through the principles of it, how it worked, and finally the hand seals. Sora tried it, achiving better results than Sasuke did when he learnt it and was using the Sharingan. However, the results were still small. For the next few hours, Sora proacticed with Kakashi while the others trained amongst themselves. By the end of the day, Sora had gotten the Chidori to level of power that Sasuke had when he faced off against Itachi. Kakashi wasn't surprised at it, due to the fact she was a master of Raiton jutsus. With her normal chakra, she could manage 4 full powered ones a day. She had not tried yet with Rokubi's chakra, but she didn't want to try until she could manage 5 with her normal chakra. Sora could tell that Rokubi's chakra would be extremely unstable with this jutsu. By now, the sun had began sinking over the horison, leaving the sky a redish tint. Kakashi smiled.

 

“Well, I think that should do for today. Good luck to all of you in the Jounin exams.”

 

“Thanks-Kakashi-Sensei!”

 

Kakashi smiled and waved before walking off. Naruto looked at his team, deciding what to do.

 

“Guys, I recommend having bi-weekly meetings to discuss stratagy and whatnot on top of training together every day.”

 

They all nodded, showing they agreed with him. Naruto turned to the others.

 

“Sakura-Chan, I know you're busy busy at the hospital a lot of the time, and it can be unpredictable, but could you try asking for two mornings off a week? The meetings shouldn't take much longer than a few hours each at most.”

 

Sakura nodded.

 

“I'll see what I can do.”

 

Naruto looked at the others.

 

“None of us have the kind of schedual Sakura-Chan has to keep up with, so would whatever times she can get suit you guys?”

 

They nodded, making Naruto smile.

 

“It's settled then. Also, I think we should all pick a target from the other Konoha team and study their fighting styles, as I have a feeling they'll be the hardest ones to beat.”

 

Sasuke nodded in agreement.

 

“They've all been training together since they passed the Chunin Exams. Their teamwork is flawless.”

 

Naruto nodded unconciously, thinking about who should go with who.

 

“Sakura-Chan, you and Ino have known each other since childhood right?”

 

Sakura nodded smiling confidently.

 

“Leave her to me.”

 

Naruto turned to the others.

 

“Does anyone have any personal preferences?”

 

Sora looked thoughtful, which Naruto picked up on.

 

“Do you have one, Sora?”

 

She nodded.

 

“I'd like to take Hinata. I've always taken an interest in the Juken.”

 

Naruto nodded. Sasuke looked at Naruto, having reached his decision.

 

“I'll take Chouji. Chouji relies mainly on power. Speed is my specialty.”

 

Naruto nodded. Yukiko giggled.

 

“Looks like I get the pleasure of beating Kiba up again.”

 

Naruto smiled, taking the last one.

 

“Then I get Shino. Judging by Shino's personality, he's the leader of the group right?”

 

Sasuke and Sakura nodded, causing Naruto to smile.

 

“Perfect. Ok guys, we'll call it a night. However, I would suggest finding out as much information on your opponent and their clans. Good luck guys!”

 

They all retired to their houses, reviewing what they had about their target and their clans before retiring for the night.

 

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Five Weeks Later, at the Stadium:

 

It was a week after the Chunin Exams had finished. Everyone from Naruto's team had studdied their targets and also spied on them training. They had only managed to get together twice a week to train, and another twice for strategy meetings, however, during those meetings, Naruto thought it was imperative to teach Sasuke and Sakura at least enough English so they could talk about their battle plans on the field in front of the others and they'd have no clue as to what was going on. Overall, however, they believed they were prepared. The two Konoha teams saw that there was a team from each of the major countires in the waiting room with them, as well as one from Oto. They had no idea why they had been allowed to compete, considering what they tried to pull off four years ago. The only thing they could come up with is that since Konoha had no firm evidence of what would have taken place, Oto hadn't tried to pull anything since then. Tenten, who was apparently the examiner turned to them.

 

“Since you've all passed the Chunin exams, I'm guessing you know how this will work. Here's the matchups. Take a good look at them.”

 

Tenten pulled a folded piece of paer from her pocket and showed it to them. Luckily, both Konoha teams were at opposing ends of the ladder. This was how it was set up.

 

'Division 1, First round:

 

Konoha Team 1 'Naruto's Team' VS Kumo Team

 

Kiri Team VS Oto Team

 

Iwa Team VS Kusa Team

 

Division 2, First Round:

 

Ame Team VS Taki Team

 

Suna Team VS Konoha Team 2.'

 

Tenten folded the piece of paper up and put it back in her pocket.

 

“Ok, the rules are the same as the Chunin exams. No rules save for the fact that if I order a stop to the match, you will stop or I will disqualify you. Killing is allowed, however, try to keep them alive. Also, you must knock out the entire opposing team to win your match. Any questions?”

 

They shook their heads and Tenten smiled.

 

“Ok then, first match is between Konoha Team 1 and the Kumo Team. Could the two teams in the first match go down to the field please?”

 

The Cloud team nodded and walked down the stairs to the arena. They were met with claps and cheering. Naruto nodded to his team, who nodded back. They jumped over the railing. They landed and stood facing the others. The croud stopped their cheering when they recognised who they were. Intense murmurs started circulating the crowd as Tenten announced the first match.

 

“The first match is between Konoha Team 1 and Kumo Team. Begin!”

 

Tenten jumped back, however, the guy who was obviously the leader of the Kumo team started laughing. Naruto turned to his team mates, seeing if they knew what was wrong. Sora obviously did. The leader of Kumo Team looked at Sora.

 

“So, the little demon finally decided to betray us.”

 

This got Naruto into it.

 

“Considering what you assholes did to her, I'm not surprised.”

 

The leader turned to Naruto snarling.

 

“What the hell would you know, blonde?”

 

“Enough. Considering I went through exactly the same thing she did for the same reasons in my own Village, I know she didn't deserve it. She's more human that you will ever be.”

 

The leader smiled sadistically.

 

“So you're a demon too, eh? We might as well finish what our parent's couldn't.”

 

Yukiko was getting bored of this chat and decided to take it to the next level.

 

“Well then, why don't you try it? Let's see what you can do against three 'demons' as you call them, when an entire village couldn't even beat one. Bring it, scum.”

 

Naruto and Sora coppied Yukiko and brought out their demon chakra. It was only a tiny fraction of what they could pull out, but it was worth it for the effects. The Kumo team were trembling in fear. Naruto sighed.

 

“This isn't even worth it. Let's finish this.”

 

The Kumo team were even more fearful. For all they knew, this was the language of the devil. Naruto decided to dispell that right now.

 

“And before you get any ideas, no that's not the language of the underworld. It's another human language that is still in use today.”

 

Naruto activated his Gauntlet and pointed.

 

“I've always wanted to meet the scumbags who've made Sora's life hell. Time for a taste of your own medicine.”

 

With that, Sora charged forward using her boots at blinding speed, leaving a huge trail of dust in her wake. She had punched one of the Kumo team in the gut, but was travelling so fast, she really just picked him up and kept going to the wall, which she slammed him into and punched him in the gut again, then the chest and finally the head. This was all before the dust had settled. When th dust has settled, Sora was holding the limp body by the neck. She dropped him, and he fell to the floor in an uncerimonious heap. She turned back to the Kuma team, who were still trying to recover from her blinding burst of speed.

 

“I can't believe I was actually ever scared of you guys. This is sad.”

 

With that, she sped towards them, causing them to flinch, but she continued past them to where her team was. The Kuma team looked back at the Konoha team in a new light. These guys weren't your average Chunins, not by a long shot. One of the Kuma team decided to lauch a jutsu at one of them. Forming the seals, which Sasuke coppied to memory happily.

 

“Raiton: Raiyuudan!”

 

The boy breathed a stream of electrcity towards Yukiko, who stood there looking quite bored. The electricity struck, causing a blinding flash of light and an explosion, which everyone shut their eyes from. After the dust had settled, they saw Yukiko was looking at him in a bored manner from the middle of a crater, completely unfazed and unharmed. The boy started shivering.

 

“Trust me, very few jutsus can touch me. I guess you could call it a... What are they... A Zettai Bougyo?”

 

The Kuma team knew now they had no chance. They'd unleashed possibly one of the most powerful Jutsus they had on one of them and it didn't even phaze them. Stupidly, they charged them, hoping that they could somehow pick them off, one at a time. The female of the team threw a hail of Kunai at Naruto, who put up his gauntleted arm. The attacker could see that it wouldn't cover all of them, however, the gauntlet started morphing hideously before it formed a shiled, deflecting all of the kunais as if it were...

 

“Alive? Yeah, it is in a sense.”

 

They turned to look at Sasuke, who was smiling at them.

 

'Did he just-'

 

“Read your minds? Possibly.”

 

Naruto smiled. It seemed Sasuke had mastered the hypnosis and subtle subconcious suggesting that the Sharingan was capable of. The Kumo team was obviously trying to fight to retain their sanity, however, it was a losing battle. One of the guys stopped in front of Sasuke and began circling around him, which Sasuke mirrored perfectly. He stopped and stared at Sasuke's eyes, which was exactly what Sasuke wanted. The boy formed a seal, which Sasuke did as well.

 

'Damn it... This guy's-'

 

“Immitating me perfectly.”

 

The boy's eyes widened in disbelief. He started forming a few more seals, which Sasuke mirrored.

 

“YOU CAN'T IMMITATE ME, YOU MONKEY!”

 

Apparently, he could. The boy lost it and started forming a bunch of seals.

 

“I'LL SHUT THAT COPYCAT MOUTH OF YOURS PERMANENTLY!”

 

They finished the seal sequence at the same time, announcing their jutsu.

 

“RAITON: RAIYUU NO TATSUMAKI!”

 

The ground began cracking as two tornados of lightning came out around them. The top of the tornadoes formed dragon heads and they charged at one another. They collided, forming a huge explosion, which shook the entire stadium. The boy looked at Sasuke in disbelief.

 

'That was-'

 

“The same jutsu as me.”

 

The boy's bloodshot eyes widened as he charged the Uchiha, but Sasuke put a fist into the boys gut, which wasn't hard considering how reckless and poorly planned the charge was. The boy collapsed, coughing up blood. Sasuke smiled at the others.

 

“The look on your faces are priceless. But it'll be even better after this.”

 

Sakura took the hint and charged at the girl. Sakura flicked her with a single finger, and to the Kuma team's suprise, the girl went flying into the stadium wall and fell to the ground unconcious. They stared at Sakura in disbelif.

 

“What the hell was that?”

 

Sakura smiled.

 

“It's amazing what perfect chakra control and application can achieve, isn't it?”

 

They stared at her like she had grown a third arm. Sakura sighed.

 

“Yukiko, your turn.”

 

Yukiko smiled a very toothy grin, forming several hand seals, she announced her jutsu.

 

“Wood Type: Strangling Vines!”

 

The Kuma team were wondering what these kids were really capeable of when Yukiko slammed her hand on the ground in front of her and they saw the ground beneith her palm turn into a quivering mass of jelly like stuff, before it solidified and shot out tendrils of wood which grabbed it's target by the arms and legs, holding the boy in place. The boy looked at the vines and then Yukiko in horror.

 

“This is...”

 

“A wood jutsu? Yeah. Trust me, the Shodaime Hokage wasn't the only one who could use Mokuton jutsus. However, as far as I'm awear, I'm the only one who can use this type.”

 

Yukiko raised a hand and pointed a finger at the boy.

 

“Death Type: Chakra drain!”

 

A blue stream of chakra shot out of the boy's chest and staight onto the tip of Yukiko's finger. The boy looked at her with a torrent of emotions.

 

“My... My chakra...”

 

Yukiko nodded, before she stopped the jutsu. The boy slumped forward from chakra depletion. They turned to the leader, who was the only one left. Naruto sighed and held out his right hand with the palm facing up. Chakra began collecting in his hand before it turned into a sphere. He looked at the leader.

 

“Recognise this?”

 

The boy had heard tales of the Yellow Flash slamming his palm which was filled with a ball of chakra into enemies, sending them flying. Hell, it was impossible not to have. He sighed and was about to say 'I give up' when Naruto was right in front of him. Nartuo slammed his fist into the boy's chest, sending him flying. The boy did not get up, so Tenten smiled at them.

 

“Winner of the first match: Konoha Team 1!”

 

The croud burst into thunderous applause, cheering for the group that was becoming fast favorites. They left to go back to the waiting room. The other team's were very afraid of this team now, except for the other Konoha team. They awalked over to them, congratulating them on a job well done. Tenten announced the next match.

 

“Next match is Kiri Team VS the Oto Team. Would both teams come down so we can start the match, please?”

 

Both the Oto and Kiri teams walked down and entered the stadium. Tenten looked at both teams, seeing they were ready, she nodded and brough her hand down in between them.

 

“Second match between Kiri and Oto Teams. Begin!”

 

The match was a fair fight. Both teams trade blow for blow, however, it clearly became apparent that the Oto team had an edge. The Oto team were obviously suppressing their chakra to make it look like it would be an even match. Eventually, the last of the Kiri team was knocked unconcious, while the Otot team stood, panting at the exertion. Tenten pointed to the Oto team.

 

“The Kiri Team is unable to continue, therefore the Oto team wins this match.”

 

There was a light smattering of applause as the Oto team came back up to the waiting room. Everyone was now wary of the Oto team. The Oto team looked at Naruto's team in hunger, or more specifically, Sasuke. Naruto gathered his group in and expressed his opinions in a hushed whisper.

 

“Guys, I really don't like that Oto team. If I didn't know better, I'd say those guys are after you again, Sasuke.”

 

Sasuke's eyes narrorowed in one of his old fashioned scowls that they hadn't seen in years. They watched the other matches, which were uneventfulcompairedto the last two. Finally, the second round of matches was ready. Tenten called them down.

 

“Konoha Team 1 and Oto Team, your up.”

 

They got down and faced each other. Tenten nodded.

 

“First match of the second round, begin!”

 

She jumped back and Naruto decided a quick win would be best. He didn't want to see what these guys had in mind for his team. Naruto charged forward, followed by his team. However, the Otot team just stood there, looking slightly amused. The guy in the middle pulled down his lower eyelid, freezing the Konoha Team in place. Naruto managed to look at him.

 

“That's not a normal body freeze. What the hell was that?”

 

The man chuckled in a very Orochimaru like style, making them shiver unconciously.

 

“Well, Naruto-Kun. Why don't you guess?”

 

Sasuke shook the effects off, and charged, however, he was backhanded into the arena wall by another of the group. They stared at the man in shock, however, Sakura ran to Sasuke and began healing him. The remaining members proceeded to lay into the Konoha team while they were still defenseless.

 

“Sasuke-Kun, hang on!”

 

Sakura was still focusing all of her attention towards Sasuke, so she didn't notice the leader of the Oto team break away from the main group and form a hebi hand seal. Naruto didn't get to activate his Ingan to see what he was going to do as the Leader's neck extended and shot towards Sasuke, Naruto managhed to get away from his assailant and charged towards Sasuke, however he realised he wouldn't make it in time. Sakura noticed at the last second and grabbed the man by the neck, halting him. The man slowly inched his way forward, fighting Sakura's monsterous strength. However, the Oto man won and bit down on Sasuke's neck. Once he had delivered his toxic payload, he withdrew and his neck returned to normal length. Sasuke screamed in agony, as Naruto reached him. He activated his Ingan and was horrified to see violet purple strands reaching into Sasuke's body from the seal on his neck. By now, the other members of the Konoha team had managed to break away and came to Sasuke's side. Naruto took stock of the situation.

 

“Sora, Sakura-Chan! Finish them off! Destroy the stadium if you have to! Yukiko, you can see them too right?”

 

Yukiko nodded, her own Doujutsu activated.

 

“Stop the ones going for his brain! The other's are a lost cause! I'll try and slow them down with an overlaying seal!”

 

Sora nodded and unsheathed her swords, however Sakura was trembling in fear. Naruto turned to her.

 

“Sakura-Chan, the best way you can help him for now is keep them off our backs. We'll do our best to stop the seal.”

 

Sakura nodded and focused her fear into anger, which she use to beat a two of the Oto team sensless. Sora used her Lightning Funeral to burn the other three to a crisp. Naruto had carved two concentric circles into the floor around Sasuke, stabbing kunai into the circles at equal distances apart. Yukiko was having a tough time keeping the new chakra paths from reaching Sasuke's brain, but she was managing it. Finally, Naruto bit his index finger and started quickly tracing paths of Kanji towards where Sasuke was on his hands and knees, panting. Naruto turned to Sasuke.

 

“Sasuke, can you hear me?”

 

Sasuke nodded, in far to much pain to talk coherent words.

 

“Sasuke, I need you to try sitting cross legged where you are and try and keep as still as possible. I have to write Kanji on you to complete this seal. Can you do that?”

 

Sasuke nodded and slowly sat in a cross legged position, wincing from the pain. Naruto quickly traced the last few lines of Kanji onto Sasuke' body, focusing them to the Cursed seal. Naruto focussed again on Sasuke.

 

“Sasuke, that cursed seal is going to try and alter your way of thinking. I don't know how, but it will. Whatever you do, don't listen to it ok? All it is is false promises. I'm starting now.”

 

Naruto formed a quick succession of hand seal before placing his hand on the cursed seal and announcing his technique.

 

“Fuuja Houin!”

 

The circles flashed and Sasuke began screaming anew from the pain. The Kanji lines slwoly began to work their way up to the cursed seal in a wave like motion. Once the last of the Kanji had worked its way under Naruto's palm, he lifted his hand to reveal a second seal around the cursed seal. Sasuke panted.

 

“Sauke, this is the best I can use on the spot. Remember, this seal utilizes your will power to supress the cursed seal. If you ever doubt your strength, it will fail. Don't give in Sasuke, I'll fix it eventually. It's a promise.”

 

With that, Sasuke passed out. Naruto turned to the last survivng member of Team Oto.

 

“Still haven't given up on him, eh? He will NEVER be yours.”

 

The leader smirked.

 

“It doesn't work like that Nartuo-Kun. He WILL seek Orochimaru-Sama for power.”

 

With that, the man fell over. Naruto ran to check it. He was horrified to see that it was one of Kabuto's jutsus, the dead soul technique. Naruto didn't doubt that Kabuto remained true to the leaf. It was entirely possible that he had taught the jutsu to someone else before he had left Oto. Naruto saw Kabuto in the crowd, with genuine shock on his face. This supported the latter theory. Just then, Naruto noticed that the croud was deathly silent. He looked up to find that they were all alseep. His attention was drawn to the Kage stand where a smoke bomb went off. Naruto looked at his team.

 

“Sakura, take care of Sasuke! Sora, Yukiko-Chan! We're going up there!”

 

They nodded and charged forward, jumping up to the Kage box in time to see the Raikage emerge, holding the Hokage hostage. The Kages got to the roof and saw four Sound nins take up the corners of the roof. Naruto, Yukiko and Sora got inside their formation just as they announced their technique.

 

“SHISHIENJIN!”

 

There were several ANBU just behind Naruto's group who weren't so lucky. They touched the barrier andburst into flames. Naruto, Yukiko and Sora stood in front of the two Kages. Sora could tell something was wrong.

 

“You're not the Raikage. He never coveres his face.”

 

The Raikage smiled.

 

“She's sharp. Perhaps I should reveal my true identity...”

 

The 'Raikage' put his free hand up to his face and ripped the mask off to reveal Orochimaru. They sneered. Which made Orochimaru laugh.

 

“My my, such hatred. It really doesn't suit people so young.”

 

“Shut it you snake bastard.”

 

“How blunt.”

 

Sora started forward, but Naruto stopped her with an outstretched hand.

 

“This is Ojisan's fight. He needs to teach him a lesson he should have remembered from the Academy days.”

 

Orochimaru looked at Naruto in interest.

 

“Ojisan? That's a very disrespectful way to address a Kage.”

 

Naruto decided to try a jab at him where he knew it would hurt.

 

“What does it matter when I'm going to get the job you wanted oh so badly?”

 

This had the desired effect and Orochimaru tensed, before he clamed himself.

 

“A Kyubi brat like you could never get that position. You should give up that hopless dream.”

 

Sarutobi turned his head to Orochimaru.

 

“He's closer to getting the job than you ever were.”

 

Orochimaru let go of his former sensei and started forming hand seals, which the Hokage did as well. They traded several high level jutsus before they stopped, gathering their chakra. Naruto, Yukiko and Sora did as well. The tiles started cracking from the sheer power that was being pressed onto them. The air was alive with a constant hum and a very electical style crackle. Bits of tiles and rock started floating in the air. The ANBU outside were quivering.

 

“What enourmous chakra... I can feel the air pressing down onto me...”

 

Sarutobi ran forward, throwing a shuriken followed by hand seals.

 

“Shuriken Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!”

 

The single shuriken multipled into at least 50, but Orochimaru was forming his own hand seals.

 

“Not good enough! Kuchiyose no Jutsu: Edo Tensei! One!”

 

The roof in front of Orochimaru turned into three pulsing purple circles. The one on the left flashed pure purple before a coffin came out.

 

“Two!”

 

The second one appeared in a simmilar manner to the first. Sarutobi started forming hand seals to stop the thrid, but Naruto put a hand over his, stopping him.

 

“Naruto what are you doing?”

 

Naruto shook his head.

 

“I want to meet him. Grant me at least that.”

 

The Hokage nodded as the third one came forth.

 

“Three!”

 

The third coffin came up just as the shuriken peppered the coffins. Naruto smiled.

 

“This should be interesting.”

 

The coffin lids creaked before collapsing to the floor. When the smoke cleared, there were the people Naruto, Yukiko, Sora and the Hokage had been expecting. They had very pale skin, but it was them alright. The majority of th Leaf people who had been left to fight had beaten off the Oto ninjas and were watching. There was about 50 or so onlookers. One of the ANBU looked surprised.

 

“Is that.... Yondaime? Then who are the other two?”

 

The one next to him sighed.

 

“Shodaime and Nidame.”

 

The others turned to him.

 

“Both of them were said to be the most powerful men of their time.”

 

Naruto looked directly at Yondaime with tears in his eyes.

 

“It's been a while... Otousan...”

 

The crowd outside gasped. Surely, he still wasn't going on about that? Now that they saw them next to each other, the resemblance was uncanny. The Yondaime looked up.

 

“Naruto? Is that you?”

 

Naruto nodded and smiled weakly.

 

“It seems you've grown into a fine young man. I'm proud of you... My son...”

 

Comnig from the Yondaime's mouth, there was no mistaking it.

 

“How has your life been?”

 

Naruto smiled.

 

“Bareable. I'm engaged.”

 

Yondaime smiled.

 

“That's great. Who's the lucky girl?”

 

Naruto pulled Yukiko close to him, indicating it was her. Yondaime smiled wamly.

 

“From what I can tell, she's perfect for you. She's a Yakushi, judging by her appearance. You wouldn't happen to be Yukiko, would you?”

 

Yukiko nodded slowly.

 

“I have one request. Please take care of my son. I regret that I will not be able to see my grandchildren, but life is unfair like that sometimes.”

 

Naruto smiled and walked up to him slowly.

 

“Can I have one thing?”

 

“What would that be?”

 

“A hug? Just one?”

 

Arashi smiled.

 

“I am supposed to fight you, considering Orochimaru summoned me, but I will let you, just this once. Then I want to fight you, to see how strong you really are.”

 

Naruto threw himself into his dad's arms, hugging him tightly and sobbing. Everyone was staring at the situation in interest. Finally after about a minute, Naruto pulled back, his tears dried. Nidaime looked back at Orochimaru.

 

“So, this guy summoned us eh? Seems like we have to fight you, Sarutobi.”

 

Sarutobi had tears in his eyes as well. Orochimaru was forcing him to face his own mentors. Orochimaru chuckled and walked up behind them with three kunai, all with a red tag attached.

 

“Let's stop this family reunion and get back to fighting, shall we?”

 

The Shodaime spoke without emotions.

 

“I see that in all times, there is war.”

 

Orochimaru reached the back of them and smiled.

 

“But you like war, don't you?”

 

“Mocking the dead like that! No good will come of messing with time!”

 

Orochimaru raised the first two kunai to head level.

 

“Then, let's begin, but before that, I need to return these three to their true forms. Please get ready.”

 

Orochimaru pressed the kunai to the back of their heads, which swallowed them. Their bodies started hissing and letting off steam, their skin regaining normal flesh colour as Orochimaru approached the Yondaime with the last one. Yondaime smiled at Naruto.

 

“It was a pleasure to see you again, son. Please don't come at me with any hesitation.”

 

Naruto sniffed, tears beginning anew.

 

“Goodbye, Otousan...”

 

The kunai was implanted into his head and he underwent the same process that the Shodaime and Nidaime just had. Nartuo fell to his knees, seeing his father in the flesh after so long. Sarutbo stumbled a few stepps forward, tears in the corners of his eyes. Orochimaru put a hand on the back of Shodaime and Nidaime.

 

“Complete.”

 

“You all look a lot more like you used to look.”

 

Orochimaru, being the sadistic bastard he is. Decided to rub it in futher.

 

“Do you know the sense of satisfaction and happiness I gain by hurting the one I used to call teacher and the son of the one who took the job I wanted? I prepared this situation so you could suffer that sort of happiness. So please enjoy.”

 

The three previous kages started forward slowly, before ending up at a running pace. Naruto called out to everyone.

 

“Yukiko-Chan! Take out Shodaime! Sora! Take Nidaime! I'm going for Yondaime! Ojisan, go teach your student the lesson he should have learnt a long time ago! Also, don't use THAT jutsu!”

 

Each of them nodded and went to engage their targets. The Kages also split up to take their oppenents. Yondaime took out one of his three pointed kunais and threw it at the base of Naruto's feet.

 

“I've improved that jutsu, Otousan. I don't need them to do it!”

 

Naruto and Arashi streaked forward in flashes of yellow light, flying around the roof and colliding every now and again before breaking off and engaging again somewhere else. Meanwhile, Sora was stopping the Nidaime's advances with waves of chakra charged lightning from her swords. Yukiko was engaging Shodaime with Taijutsu while Sarutobi was engaging Orochimaru with lower level elemental jutsus. The onlookers were stunned. None of their battles could ever compare to the sheer power raidiating from each of the fighters in there. This was on a whole different level.

 

“Is this... A Kage level battle? What power... If were were in there, we'd only get in the way...”

 

Finally, Yukiko decided to try out the Shodaime's ability to control wood.

 

“Let's see who's Mokuton jutsus are better.”

 

They both formed a hebi hand seal.

 

“MOKUTON HIJUTSU: JUKAI KOUTAN!”

 

The entire area came alive with vines, which began competing to strangle each other. Soon, the entire area was covered in trees. Yukiko laughed.

 

“I knew it. You're a demon container like us. Hachibi was your demon, wasn't it? It was the only other demon who had the power to control wood, apart from Nibi, which I have.”

 

The ANBU gasped. This girl was accusing Shodaime of being a Jinchuriki? The Shodaime just nodded, and continued with Taijutsu. It seemed that they had at least a minimum amount of control over their bodies, and the nod was his way of confirming that she had hit the mark. The few people there who still hated Naruto were having second thoughts. If Shodaime had been as good a Hokage as he was and was a Jinchuriki, surely Naruto couldn't be much worse? They turned back to the battle as Nidaime started forming seals. Naruto who already engaged his Ingan saw that this jutsu would be bad for all of them. He broke off and flashed towards the Nidaime, ripping his hands apart, which broke his concerntraition, canceling the jutsu. Naruto turned around to block an attack from the Yondaime and flashed off again. Sora managed to form a Kage Bunshin during this time and both of them began forming the seals for her most powerful attack. Both of their hands began glowing as lightning formed in the palm of their hands. They slammed their palms together and pumped Rokubi's chakra into it, making it highly unstable. She looked at the Nidaime, who had just turned around to see her and her clone charging him. He tried to get out of the way, but a thrid Kage Bunshin came from behind and grabbed him in a full nelson, which he did not expect. Sora announced her jutsu.

 

“Odama Raikiri!”

 

The clones helping her poofed out of existance and the attack pierced the Nidaime's chest before Sora lost control of it and it exploded, completely obliterating the Nidaime and throwing her back. Much to her horror, the pieces of Nidaime came back and reattached themselves to each other, recreating the entire body. Nidaime got up and charged her again. Everyone else fighting had noticed this as well. Naruto called to the others.

 

“Gather in the centre!”

 

They did, forming a tight circle with their targets surrounding them.

 

“It seems the only way to kill them is to kill the souls. Ojisan, I'll let you do the honours for Orochimaru, however, I'd prefer to keep you alive, but if you have to, do it. I'll take the others.”

 

Sarutobi nodded and watched as Naruto formed a hand seal.

 

“Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!!!!”

 

Nartuo smiled.

 

“Hey snake freak, we're going to show you a technique that you haven't seen before. You better watch closely, because it'll be the last thing you see.”

 

Nidaime cast a Genjutsu that turned the entire area into a jet black inky darkness. Orochimaru's disembodied voice floated out to them.

 

“Really? Please, show me this Jutsu.”

 

The Hokage nodded at Nartuo. Naruto would do it first. Naruto formed a series of hand seals and was just about to announce his jutsu when Yukiko screamed in horror.

 

“DON'T YOU DARE YOU THAT JUTSU! I'M NOT LOSING YOU!”

 

Naruto smiled at her sadly.

 

“I'm sorry, Yukiko-Chan. There's no other way. Remember what I said? I can't die until I become Hokage. Believe in that.”

 

Yukiko started sobbing. Naruto hadn't died before, but there was no escape from this Jutsu. Not even his dream could save him this time. The Fox agreed.

 

'WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING? YOU DO REALISE THAT YOU'RE GOING TO DIE, DON'T YOU?'

 

'I know. But Ojisan can't do it for all four, so I have to do it too. We don't have any other options.'

 

The others outside had no idea what the comotion was about, but Kakashi knew what it was.

 

“Shit! He's going to use Shiki Fuujin!”

 

They turned to Kakashi who looked at the battle in horror.

 

“Shiki Fuujin was what Yondaime used to seal the Kyubi. It's a Shinjutsu. All of you watch this very carefully. Naruto is one of the two people left alive who can perform it and he's going to kill himself and the other Kages with it!”

 

They gasped. That all powerful technique? It was rumoured that to use it you had to sign a contract with Shinigami and as payment for summoning him, you had to sacrifice your soul. The Naruto clones as well as the real version shot forward and latched onto what seemed to be nothing, however, those outside the Genjutsu could see what they were holding. The clones stiffened and convulsed for apparently no reason, however, the others knew that Shinigami had just plunged his arm into the back of Naruto's soul. The real Naruto held onto Yondaime, while the other two clones went for Shodaime and Nidaime. Naruto and Sarutobi could see the hand reaching out through a hole in Naruto's clothing as it grabbed the souls of Nidaime and Shodaime. The Genjutsu was dispelled revealing that both Nidaime and Shodaime were turning white.

 

“Sorry to have caused you trouble, Naruto.”

 

Their bodies started crumbling to reveal several sound nin's corpses. Yondaime was smiling at Naruto.

 

“And so ends the Uzumaki bloodline. Like father, like son, eh Naruto? You were a better man than I could ever be. Congratulations.”

 

The Yondaime's corpse began crumbling to reveal another Sound nin. Naruto started panting heavily as he prepared for the final part.

 

“FUUIN!”

 

Their stomach's flashed before revealing a double four elemental seal. The clones poofed away leaving Naruto standing their, his life drainnig away rapidly. Yukiko charged at him and caught him as he dropped to the ground. She was weeping uncontrollably.

 

“Naruto-Kun... Don't leave me... We still haven't married yet...”

 

“Then... let's do it now...”

 

By now, everyone inside the prison had gathered around. Sarutobi acted as the priest, granting Naruto's last wish.

 

“Do you, Uzumaki Naruto, take Yakushi Yukiko to be your lawfully wedded wife?”

 

Naruto nodded.

 

“I... Do...”

 

“Do you, Yakushi Yukiko, take Uzumaki Naruto to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

 

“I do...”

 

Then by the powers vested in meas the Sandaime Hokage, I now pronounce you Husband and Wife.”

 

Yukiko lowered her head to kiss Naruto one last time before he departed this world.

 

“I... Love you... Yukiko-Chan...”

 

“I love you to, Naruto-Kun. I always have and I always will.”

 

With that, Nartuo slowly closed his eyes and stopped breathing. Yukiko put her head on his chest and continued weeping. Orochimaru sneered at them.

 

“How touching. A fitting end for a piece of trash.”

 

Yukiko and Sora tensed, releasing their full demonic chakras, disreguarding any danger to their own lives. Everyone was terrifed at the sheer power of it.

 

“NO ONE TALKS ABOUT NARTUO-KUN LIKE THAT AND LIVES!”

 

Yukiko released the second stage of her demonic form while Sora was working up to the sixth. They both charged at Orochimaru and began ripping into him. Oeochimaru did the best he could to defend aganist them, but he was quickly overpowered. They proceeded to beat him sensless before knocking him to the ground, where he he groaned from the pain. Sarutobi walked up to them.

 

“It's time to hand out your punishment for drowning yourself in jutsus. I failed miserably in training you, so now I must correct my mistake.”

 

Orochimaru looked up at his former sensei in horor.

 

“You wouldn't...”

 

Sarutobi smiled and looked at Yukiko.

 

“This is as much of my fight as it is yours. Will you do the honours?”

 

Yukiko smiled.

 

“With pleasure.”

 

She formed a few hand seals and raised her palm at Orochimaru.

 

“Death type: Soul Siphon!”

 

The purple stream shot out and connected with Orochimaru's stomach.

 

“Stop... Don't.”

 

“Too late scum. I'm going to take pleasure in tormenting your soul for the rest of my life for what you forced my husband to do.”

 

Orochimaru's soul separated from his body and flew towards Yukiko. However, she didn't pull it into her body, she formed another set of one handed seals. In the other hand, chakra formed a bottle of sorts, and Orochimaru's soul flew into it. Yukiko formed a chakra cork to keep him in there and then absorbed the bottle.

 

“There was a chance he could have possesed me if I just drained it regularly. This way, he will be renderd harmless and will die when I die.”

 

Orochimaru's body collapsed to the floor lifeless and the four sound ninjas who had erected the barrier released it, and tried to escape. The other people who were watching the battle charged them.

 

“You're not getting away!”

 

The one with six arms used a jutsu to capture them in a web of sticky chakra, which attached itself to to the roof, letting them beat a hasty retreat. Everyone now went and looked over Naruto's body, mourning the loss of a man who had defeated all of the previous Hokage's by himself. Jiraiya looked incredibly sullen at the fact he had failed his duty to Arashi, while Yukiko was mourning the loss of her husband by leaning on him and weeping uncontrollably.

 

&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&

 

A Few Days Later:

 

Sora was sent to Suna to convey the news of Naruto's death, which was met by sorrow. However, Hotaru didn't looked to disturbed. She sighed and turned to Sora.

 

“Is his body still intact?”

 

Sora nodded.

 

“No modifications have been made to it to preserve it.”

 

Hotaru nodded.

 

“I... Might be able to resurrect him.”

 

Gaara and Sora stared at her.

 

“It has a heavy price, but I'm willing to pay it.”

 

Gaara looked at her.

 

“What is the price.”

 

“I have to die.”

 

Gaara's eyes widened.

 

“Naruto wouldn't want you to sacrifice your life so he could keep living!”

 

“Naruto wouldn't mind if he knew I'd also be resurrected with him.”

 

Gaara and Sora stared at her.

 

“The phoenix will always rise from the ashes, no matter how many times it is killed. All I need to do is die on top of Naruto and be left for three days. After that, I will be resurrected, and so will anyone either on top of me or below me. I've never used this jutsu before, but I doubt I will fail.”

 

They nodded, and so Hotaru came back to Konoha with her. A private room in the hospital was arranged where Naruto's body was taken. Everyone else left Hotaru to do her work. Hotaru sighed looking at Naruto.

 

“Did you have to use that jutsu, Naruto? Seriously, this is going to hurt...”

 

Hotaru formed a chain of hand seals that lasted for well over a minute before she announced her technique.

 

“Healing Type: Seirei Tensei!”

 

Hotaru was surrounded by flames that were obviously burning her. She gritted her teath in pain as she slumped on top of Naruto and continued burning both herself and him. By the time the fire died down, all that was left was a pile of ash. Yukiko stood outside the door, looking through the window into the room. She sincerely hoped this worked.

 

&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&

 

Three Days Later:

 

Yukiko stood outside the room, looking in as the last few minutes ticked by. As Hotaru had said, the second 72 hours was up, the ashes turned white from the heat and then burst into flames. From the flames, they could vaguly make out two shapes that were quickly takeing on human appearance. The flames died down slowly, revealing Hotaru and Naruto standing up, naked. Hotaru stared at the group gathered outside the door staring in.

 

“HENTAI!”

 

The men scampered away, while Sora opened the door a crack and chucked two sets of clothes into the room.

 

“Get dressed you two, we have stuff to do.”

 

They nodded and grabbed the clothes, pulling them on and shakily walking out the door. They were still weak from the jutsu, and Yukiko pulled Naruto to him and sobbed, while Gaara caught Hotaru with his sand. Naruto looked at Yukiko.

 

“I told you I couldn't die before I became Hokage, didn't I Yukiko-Chan?”

 

Hotaru butted in.

 

“You would have been dead if I hadn't revived you. Seriously Naruto, that jutsu is a pain in the ass. Don't die again, ok?”

 

Naruto laughed weakly.

 

“Can't make any promises there...”

 

They chuckled as they walked out of the corridor and saw that everyone had stopped and was staring at them in disbelief. Naruto was first to respond, smiling at them.

 

“What's wrong? You guys look like you've seen a ghost.”

 

Yukiko, Sora, Hotaru and Gaara groaned, slapping their hands to their foreheads. Sora looked at Naruto.

 

“Did you have to use such a cliche'd line, Naruto?”

 

Naruto laughed, rubbing the back of his head.

 

“We'll, no other line seemed to fit...”

 

“Forget it.”

 

The nurses recovered from their stupor and swarmed Naruto and Hotaru, amazed to see that they were indeed alive. After some final checks, they were allowed to leave the hospital, although they were both placed under a strict home recovery program. Once they walked out the hospital doors, they all walked back to Naruto's house, ignoring the shcoked stares they were getting from everyone.

 

&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;

 

A/N: Ok, time for that promised explination! Don't like the idea that the marriage seemed sudden? Well, in real life, a lot of couples do this if one of them is either terminally ill in hospital or is dying from a wound of some sort. All that's needed is for one witness, and it's completely legal. Should the dying person survive, the vows taken at the time are kind of considered like a solidifying of the promise, and then they have a proper marriage later at a set date. If the person does die, it's considered what a real marriage would be. I've actually been honoured enough to see it happen once, although I won't tell you the details, I was one of the two witnesses. It was both touching and saddening at the same time. Anywho, enough of a trip down memory lane, I hope you all enjoyed the chapter. And as I promised in the prequal to this story, Hotaru would use it very sparingly. This is more than likely the only time she will use it. Until next time, my avid readers!

 

Ja ne,

 

Specula.