Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to Naruto, and if I did, I guess I have a legal obligation to make Kabuto a 'good guy'. I showed my wife Naruto for the first time and we managed to finish the first three seasons of Naruto! However, when we got to the Chunin Exams Arc, at the beginning of it, she called Kabuto 'Daddy!' and was really, really interested and invested in him.

... After an awkward conversation and showing her pictures of him in Shippuden, she no longer thinks so. However, she is incredibly disappointed and I guess that will be the first thing I fix with my newly acquired rights to Naruto XD

... I probably also need to modify True Potential's version of Naruto as well to appeal to her more, but we'll see when she actually starts the fanfic whether or not she likes my interpretation of him or not! XD

---

'Ah, it's finally over.' Shikamaru said with a yawn.

The Nara took one final look at the moon in the sky before his head turned over the corner, facing the path forward, noting the large mountain range in the distance. Jiraiya and his escort had arrived in to Kaminari no Kuni that day and were going to make it to the village the next day a little before noon. They were planning on waking up early, so it was imperative to get as much sleep as possible to keep rested.

With that thought, Shikamaru pulled himself up from his spot and went back to the camp to pick up the next person for night watch duty.

"Hey, Homura-sensei." Shikamaru whispered as he looked over the sleeping figure of the Konoha Elder.

On cue, Homura's eyes shot up. He pulled himself off the ground and stretched slightly.

"Is there a reason you still call me Homura-sensei?" He asked.

"Were you even asleep?" Shikamaru asked, blinking. "Or did you just fully wake up that easily?"

"It's rude to return a question with a question, especially one that is unrelated to the initial conversation." Homura frowned in response.

"My bad." Shikamaru said, yawning. "Well, it's out of respect. You, Koharu-sensei, and Sandaime-sama helped teach us. Therefore, you're still our sensei." He then chuckled slightly: "I still call Anko-sensei with that title."

Homura was quiet in response. Shikamaru stood there for a second, waiting for a response. Once the moment passed, the Nara turned his head and waved and began to walk back to his sleeping bag.

"Shikamaru?" Homura called out. The Nara stopped in his place: "If you really consider me a sensei to you, would you like to learn something?"

"Hmm?" Shikamaru turned his head back to face the elder: "What?"

"It will require time to learn, so this is something that won't be able to be worked on until we reach Kumo." Homura stated. But I would like to teach you my original jutsu, the Holy Barricade."

"You want to teach me what?" Shikamaru's eyes widened.

'Ninja Art: Holy Barricade' was Homura's signature jutsu and the origin for his nickname, 'Konoha's Guardian Angel'. The jutsu was an impenetrable defense of chakra that took the form of 'light' that could be modified into either a shield, barrier, or simply an 'aura' that guarded the target area. It was an incredibly defensive jutsu and considered one of the best known barrier-style ninjutsu ever created.

"You are actually one of a few people I would consider eligible to even using the jutsu." Homura stated, rubbing his chin. "The Holy Barrier requires the use of Yin Release, an elemental manipulation that few are able to use effectively. However, a Nara like you, who uses spiritual energy to create and manipulate shadows, should be capable. You will find this jutsu rather useful, provided, of course, you have the chakra reserves." He then shook his head" "But if you really have started to learn senjutsu, it should be possible."

"I have." Shikamaru said. His eyebrow rose slightly as he looked at the elder: "Is there a reason you want to teach me it out of the blue like this though? You are right; it's been a bit since we were training under you three. Why the sudden interest now?"

Homura sighed before he turned his head towards the stars.

"I'm getting old, Shikamaru." He answered.

He was quiet for a moment. Shikamaru was still, waiting for the elder to continue to speak. Finally, he shook his head as he crossed his arms.

"So I know you're waiting for me to reply, but how are you wanting me to respond to that? Acknowledge it? Reject it?" He asked.

"I don't care; I was simply stating a fact." The elder scoffed before turning his attention back to the Nara. "Nevertheless, I know I'll die soon."

Shikamaru's eyes narrowed: "You're not going to die here, Homura-sensei."

Homura turned his head from the stars towards Shikamaru and glared in response: "When did I say I'd die on this mission? I won't die in Kumo; I refuse to." He then shook his head: "But don't ignore reality, Shikamaru. My death is coming. As is Koharu's, whether she will admit to that fact or not. The death of our whole generation is coming soon."

An image of both Ōnoki and Hiruzen entered Shikamaru's mind. A frown developed on his face as he stared intently at Konoha's Guardian Angel.

"I would like to make sure that the next generation is prepared and capable to keep itself safe. You are a Konoha shinobi and have a duty to keep the village safe against all threats." Homura continued, his eyes softening slightly: "I would simply like to do my part in helping keep Konoha safe in the future."

Shikamaru bit his lip in response: "I see."

The two men were silent as they stared at one another. The moon appeared particularly bright in that moment, giving them both a clear look at one another. Shikamaru noted the intensity in Homura's eyes and expression; he could tell exactly how much Homura meant his own words.

"I'd like to learn." Shikamaru said.

Homura nodded his head: "Shortly after we arrive in Kumo, I'll design a lesson plan of sorts. Holy Barricade is a draining jutsu, but I'm sure with enough time and practice, you will get it down."

The two men were silent for a moment longer, staring at one another with quiet resolve. A minute passed before the tension died down as a chuckle escaped Shikamaru's lips.

"By the way, you said it's an original jutsu. So, you named the jutsu? Can you tell me why you called it the 'Holy Barricade'?" He asked, a smirk developing on his face: "Kind of a conceited name, don't you think?"

"Quit laughing." Homura's eyes narrowed: "I created the jutsu shortly after Hiruzen earned the title 'God of Shinobi'. The jutsu was named as such as part of theming and played a role in my own moniker as Konoha's Guardian Angel." He heard Shikamaru's chuckling continue, which caused him to scowl: "I said quit laughing, dammit!"

Much to Homura's chagrin, Shikamaru did continue to laugh at the realization that Homura named the jutsu the way he did. Nevertheless, he did quiet down and the two bid each other goodnight.

As the Nara laid his head down in his sleeping bag, he felt even more of a need to keep training once he got to Kumogakure.

'Sage Mode, and now Homura-sensei's ultimate barrier ninjutsu… I will do it, this time.' His hands tightened into fists as he turned to his other side, trying to fall asleep. 'I will keep everyone safe!'

---

"Alright, let's try this out." Kabuto said as he closed his eyes.

The silver-haired shinobi walked forward deep into the clearing in a forest forty kilometers to the north of Kumogakure. He took a deep breath before he made a single hand sign.

"Boil Style: Skilled Mist Jutsu!"

Kabuto breathed out a corrosive gas from his mouth that moved through the clearing all around him in a circular fashion. The gas made contact with the trees, which promptly began to melt. Kabuto then made three hand signs.

"Swift Style: Shadowless Flight!"

Kabuto disappeared in an afterimage as he began to ran around the forest clearing multiple times in a second. Five more seconds passed by and he finished close to one hundred laps around the clearing.

His eyes focused on his own feet for a second before he turned back to the melted trees. A smirk developed on his face.

"Well, looks like they're incorporated into my DNA well. And at a much faster rate than usual." Kabuto said as he adjusted his glasses.

"But you know, there's a saying for people like you. Jack of all trades, master of none."

A scowl quickly replaced his smirk as Kabuto recalled his last confrontation with Naruto. He tightened his hand into a fist as he looked upwards towards the sky, facing the moon.

'Once we meet again, Naruto, I'll show you what a 'master of none' can really do. Then we'll see if you still call me that.' A chuckle escaped his lips.

"My, Kabuto, you look so serious right now!"

Kabuto immediately tensed-up and a sharp bone developed in both of his palms as he turned around. Standing by the remains of one of the trees he had melted stood Tobi, who had seemingly appeared from out of nowhere.

"What do you want?" Kabuto asked.

"Nothing! Nothing! I just was checking up on you, silly!" Tobi said cheerfully as he nearly skipped, walking up to Kabuto. "Is it so weird to imagine a comrade checking up on a comrade?"

"With you? Yes." Kabuto said plainly: "Also, Hidan isn't here. You can drop that act of yours."

"I guess he isn't. Very well." Tobi stated, his voice changing into a deeper tone. The masked man's demeanor changed as well as he began to stand up straighter and stare at Kabuto with an intense glare from behind the mask.

"Is there a particular reason you feel the need to put on that fake persona with the rest of the Akatsuki?" Kabuto asked. The bone on his right palm merged back with his skin as he readjusted his glasses once more.

"I don't have any reason to talk with you about that." Tobi said, scowling. "I'm just here to discuss something with you, Kabuto. Oyashiro told me that you made a contract with him."

"I did." Kabuto nodded his head. "He gave me more blood samples for my research in exchange for money, and we have an arrangement planned for after the invasion." He could feel Tobi's glare intensify, which caused Kabuto to scowl back: "Is there anything wrong with wanting something from that man? It's not conflicting with our mission. If anything, it's giving me extra strength to be more useful for Pain-sama's objectives."

"… I suppose that is correct." Tobi nodded his head. "However, I'd like to give you some friendly advice."

The masked man disappeared in a spiral formation – as if the space around his body had disappeared – before reappearing directly behind Kabuto. The silver-haired shinobi tensed slightly as Tobi leaned into his neck.

"You are nothing more than a tool for our objective, Kabuto. I'd recommend you accept that role and not do anything suspicious." Tobi hissed. "I will kill you if I even once suspect you're up to something."

Kabuto's body disappeared in an after image. He now reappeared directly behind Tobi, holding a bone sword in his left hand.

"You've already made these threats before, and I've already said this before, so let me say it again; I'm no threat to Pain-sama or the Akatsuki. So stop harassing me already." He stated sharply.

"… I'll leave you be. For now." Tobi stated as his body began to slowly disappear in the same 'spiral' through space. "But I'd listen to what I have to say. Don't make unnecessary deals with those out of Akatsuki."

With those words, the masked man disappeared, leaving Kabuto alone.

The Yakushi was still for a moment, seemingly expecting him to return and fight him. After a full minute passed by, Kabuto finally took a breath and relaxed.

'Damn him. Does me really making a deal with Oyashiro intimidate you that much?' A scowl developed on his face: 'I'd recommend you stop trying to threaten me, Tobi, or else I will destroy you.'

Kabuto immediately went back to training with his new kekkei genkai. However, in the back of his head, the masked Akatsuki member was in the forefront of his mind.

---

"Ahhh." Naruto sighed in relief as he looked down at his empty bowl.

The Uzumaki had woken-up earlier than the other eight jinchūriki, for he had some things he had to accomplish; he had to take a quick leave from Shimagame Island to check-up on his students. It had been four days of training on the island alongside his fellow jinchūriki, and five days since he had dropped off his students at Mount Myōboku with the toads. He made a promise to himself that he would stop by the mountain every five days to check on their progress and make sure everything was going smoothly.

This month was not just about him – it was also about his students and making sure that they were prepared and ready for the exam and the upcoming invasion!

After finishing his breakfast, Naruto walked over to the sink in Bee's kitchen and began to wash his dish. As he finished cleaning, he could hear approaching footsteps. Naruto looked up to the door to the kitchen in time to see Gaara walk into the room.

"Morning Gaara!" Naruto called out.

"Morning, Naruto." Gaara nodded his head. "I trust you slept well?"

"Eh, could have slept for longer, but can't complain." He shrugged in response: "You?"

"I did." Gaara answered, a smile developing on his lips: "Sleep is lovely."

It was at that point that Naruto registered what he actually asked Gaara, as well as Gaara's response. His eyes widened.

"You… slept?" Naruto asked.

Sabaku no Gaara was an insomniac by design; the seal on his body was made 'poorly' and allowed Shukaku easy access to his mind. Falling asleep gave the Ichibi the ability to take over Gaara's body and go on a rampage. This resulted in many nights in his childhood where his father was forced to fight the beast into submission and an invasion plan against Konoha that relied on Gaara falling asleep and unleashing Shukaku as a weapon against the village.

Gaara never slept. He was not supposed to be. Yet, here he was, nodding his head to Naruto's question.

"How?" Naruto asked.

"Now that I have defeated Shukaku, he confessed he has no interest in trying to take over my body. He knows I am capable of beating him back, after all." Gaara answered. A sigh escaped his lips: "I must confess that I stayed up the previous nights out of some fear that something would happen when I fell asleep. Last night was the first night I willingly slept in my whole life."

"Wow. Damn." Naruto rubbed the back of his head as he looked at his friend in amazement: "That's incredible. When did you go to sleep?"

"At three, I believe." Gaara answered.

Naruto blinked in response: "Uh… Gaara, you know it's six, right?"

"Yes." The Kazekage nodded his head.

"That means you got three hours of sleep." Naruto noted.

Gaara frowned in response: "Is that too much?"

"No. No. The opposite-" Naruto shook his head, chuckling: "Never mind. Just try and get some more rest tonight, then. If you think three hours of sleep is 'amazing', just wait until you see what eight hours feels like."

"Hmm. Very well." Gaara nodded his head in response. His eyes focused in on Naruto as the blond put away his empty dish and started to walk away from the sink: "You usually don't get up at this time, by the way. Are you planning on starting on your training early?"

"Nah, I'll be there on time for the group training sessions." Naruto said as he shook his head: "For now, I'm going to go check-up on my students!" He then grinned as he rushed past the Kazekage: "Anyway, later Gaara!"

Gaara was still as Naruto hurried out of the kitchen and out of Bee's house. A second passed by before he shook his head, chuckling.

"Well, he seems in good spirits at least." Gaara said to himself.

As the Kazekage began working on his own breakfast, Naruto's words reminded him of his sister and her genin team. He closed his eyes for a moment: 'Hopefully your training with your students is going well as well, Temari.'

---

"Looks like you tadpoles are gettin' stronger." Fukasaku acknowledged with a smirk.

Katsumi, Kanji, and Hanabi could not reply and only nodded their heads as they breathed heavily. The three genin had been training for five days on Mount Myōboku. Both Fukasaku and Shima provided to be relentless instructors when it came to testing their strength, speed, and reflexes. Nevertheless, the Team Nine members all managed to improve with each passing day.

… If anything, they were able to go through training sessions without immediately passing out on the floor; that was already a major improvement.

"Pa and I are really impressed." Shima admitted with a smile. "Perhaps we can start working on teaching you some jutsu."

"Hell yeah!" Katsumi shouted as she pumped her fists. "Maybe we can start right away!"

"Hold on." Kanji shook his head, frowning. "Let us rest a little more. Please."

"Well, don't rest for too long." Fukasaku said, chuckling. "Ma and I are gonna take a break, but ya still have a little more trainin' ta do."

"You… want us to do… solo training?" Hanabi asked between breaths.

"Nah, you'll be training with me for the next hour or so."

The three genin all turned around in surprise at the sound of the voice. They came face-to-face with Uzumaki Naruto, who was grinning at them.

"Hey guys!" He stated. "What's up-"

"Naruto-sensei!" Hanabi shouted as she rushed up towards him and hugged him. "What are you doing here? When did you get here? I thought you were busy with your training!"

Naruto chuckled as he returned the hug: "I told you all would stop by from time-to-time. Ever heard of reverse summoning?"

"Guess we forgot." Katsumi admitted sheepishly as she hurried over and joined the hug, a grin of her own developing on her face: "Good to see you, sensei!"

Naruto's grin softened into a smile as he returned Katsumi's hug as well. He then looked over to Kanji, who was smiling back at him.

"Are you wanting to join the group hug too?" He asked.

"Thanks, but no thanks." Kanji shook his head, chuckling. "Hugs just aren't something I can embrace so easily-"

"Get your ass in here!" Katsumi hissed.

The civilian-born kunoichi pulled out of the group hug to drag Kanji into the hug. He yelped in response for a moment before his smile returned and he joined the hug.

A few seconds passed before the team broke apart.

"Was that so bad, Kanji?" Katsumi asked with a smirk.

"Yes. A lot. I'm gonna melt." The Yamanaka confessed as he fell to his knees in an overdramatic fashion, groaning loudly. "You three killed me there. KILLED ME."

"Good." Katsumi replied, her smirk widening. She then turned her attention back to her sensei: "So, how's training going for you? Are you close to mastering the Kyūbi's power?"

"Oh yeah I am close. I'm just working on improving my skills with his power." Naruto said grinning.

"I have to wonder just how strong you're going to be when you're done." Hanabi noted, bringing her right hand to her chin. "You could potentially be the strongest shinobi our village has ever seen!"

"N-Now that's a little extreme, don't ya think?" Naruto blushed slightly at the compliment, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly. He then shook his head as his eyes focused on his students: "So give me details real quick of what you all have been working on, so we can make the most out of training. I only got an hour with you guys before I got to get back to Shimagame Island and Yugito will yell at me if I'm late for training. So, what have the elder toads been working on with you?"

"Improving our strengths for the most part." Kanji said with a shrug. "Improving our chakra reserves, our chakra control, endurance, strength, etc. The works."

"Gotcha." Naruto said as he quickly reached into his flak jacket and pulled out three copies of the same scroll: "So, I got something in mind. It's something I learned back during my Chūnin Exams and, to be honest, it's a really important jutsu to know for when you all get involved in combat."

He tossed each of the genin a copy of the scroll. All three grabbed one and proceeded to open it.

"The Shunshin, huh?" Katsumi said, grinning. "I know this jutsu!"

"As you should. It's kinda a fundamental technique once you get to your rank." Naruto said. "So, we'll start with there. The next time I come back, I'll have some more interesting jutsu I'd like you all to work on."

"Oh?" Kanji asked with a smirk. "What kind of jutsu are you planning on teaching us?"

"You'll see." Naruto said, rubbing his head. "But for now, focus on the scroll I gave you. I'm expecting you all to pick it up quickly, y'know?"

The three genin students nodded their heads in response as they turned their attention to the scrolls. Naruto watched them read, a small chuckle escaping his lips.

"Let me know when you all finish. I want to see you all try and use it before I have to go." He said as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a kunai knife. He flung it into the air before catching it, sticking his index finger through the ring: "I'm hoping you all will be able to pull it off!"

Immediately, Katsumi, Kanji, and Hanabi all began to sweat as they frantically studied the contents of the Shunshin.

---

"AH!" Udon gasped in pain.

With a grown, Udon fell to the ground in pain, breathing heavily. Moegi remained standing for a while longer before she too fell to her knees next to him. Both genin looked as if they were struggling to stay conscious.

Ebisu's eyes focused on his two genin. He had woken up his genin every morning at six in the morning to train. The first four days of their training, he had worked with them in a more relaxed training manner, similar to his methods back in Konoha. However, on the fifth day, he decided to take a page out of Naruto's and Anko's handbooks and up the difficulty of his training regimen.

The results were instantaneous; his training was a cultural shock to his students and exhausted both Udon and Moegi.

"How… much longer… do you want… us to go?" Udon asked.

Ebisu reached into his pocket and pulled out a pocket watch. He quickly glanced at the time before shaking his head and pocketing it once again: "I'd like to train for at least another two hours. Then we can take a lunch break and get back to work after."

"Two more hours…" Moegi sighed as she tried to pull herself back to her feet: "Do y-you think we can have like a five-minute break, Ebisu-sensei? We're exhausted."

Udon nodded his head: "Yes. Please."

"Hmm." Ebisu frowned in response, but nodded his head: "If you desire one so badly-"

"Nah, Ebisu-sensei. Let's keep it up!"

His attention was pulled towards his third student. Konohamaru had enthusiastically thrown himself in head-first to Ebisu's new, stricter teaching methods, not slowing down in the slightest. While somewhat winded, the Sarutobi appeared as if he was mostly unaffected and could train for hours.

"K-Konohamaru, aren't you tired at all?" Moegi asked, taking in a breath. "You should rest too."

"No way. We don't have time to rest." Konohamaru shook his head, frowning: "The Exams are coming up soon and we have to be ready. We have to show the world just how strong we are."

Ebisu's frown deepened: "There's more to it than exams, Konohamaru. You know precisely what else is going to happen then and what you really need to be training for."

"I'm aware." Konohamaru said, rolling his eyes. "That doesn't change the fact that we need to keep training. We have a tournament to win and a village to keep safe." He then turned his attention back to his friends and he clapped his hands: "Come on guys! We need to keep training and get stronger!"

Moegi and Udon were quiet for a moment as they focused on their heavy breathing. After a few more seconds, Udon finally pulled himself to his feet and Moegi's breathing became calmer.

"Okay." Udon said as he tensed up slightly, looking at their jōnin-sensei: "W-We're ready when you are."

Ebisu was quiet for a moment as he shook his head: 'I appreciate that he motivated them to get up, but I'm really not liking this attitude, Konohamaru…' With a sigh, Ebisu reached for shuriken from his pocket: "Very well. Let's get back to it then."

The three Team Six genin nodded their heads in response, with Konohamaru being the most energetic and determined to keep going.

'Just you wait.' Konohamaru's mind, for a brief moment, focused on an image of his grandfather, Sarutobi Hiruzen. The image in his head then shifted towards Naruto and his genin team. His eyes narrowed: 'I'm going to show all of you what the 'honorable grandson' of the Sandaime can really do!'

---

"Again?" Anko asked.

Kazuo finished running through hand signs: "Fire Style: Phoenix Flower Jutsu!"

He breathed out a barrage of fireballs directly at Anko. The jōnin smirked as she took a step forward. Channeling chakra into her hands, Anko reached out for the oncoming flames with her hands and blocked them. The fire was extinguished instantly upon impact as smoke began to get released from her palms.

"Wh-What the fuck?" The purple-haired genin's eyes were focused on Anko's hands: "How the hell did you do that?"

"Kid, you're fighting against arguably Konoha's top shinobi when it comes to the fire affinity." Anko said before she turned to face Yūna. "Hey, what was that nickname you said from the Bingo Books? The new one!"

"Eh?" Yūna blinked in response before her eyes widened in recognition: "Oh! You mean 'Konoha's Walking Firestorm'!"

"Yeah that." Anko said with a grin as she turned her head back to Kazuo: "And you thought you could overpower me with my own elemental affinity? And with a half-assed attempt at using fire at that? Try harder." She then jumped up in the air, just in time to avoid a swarm of kikaichū approaching her: "Oh, and Tsunemasa, I saw through the genjutsu you put over your beetles a while. You'll need to try harder next time as well."

"Hmph." The Aburame nearly growled as he crossed his arms: "Expecting me to be able to effectively cast an illusion over a jōnin as qualified as you is a rather ludicrous assumption."

"And what? I shouldn't be expecting you brats to be able to fight jōnin?" Anko asked, rolling her eyes. She then focused back on Yūna: "And you; are you going to try and fight back already?"

"Well…" Yūna looked downward slightly as she started to rub the back of her neck: "I was kinda waiting for you to try and attack one of us first, before I get involved."

"Oh yeah, that's right. Because you're the 'barrier' girl. All about defense." Anko rolled her eyes once again.

Using the shunshin, Anko teleported right behind Yūna's body. She then grabbed the genin by the head, forcing her into the ground. Yūna yelped before groaning in pain as Anko continued to shove her knee into her back.

"Oh look, a shinobi got past your defense before you could even put up a barrier. Whoops. So, how will you beat me now?" Anko asked.

Yūna tried to struggle to force Anko off her back and pull herself off the ground, but her attempts failed; Anko continued to force her down, despite her best efforts.

"You all do know what's going to be going on after the exam, right? Because if you can't at least do anything to surprise me, I might as well pull you out now." Anko stated sharply. "Bring you all back to Konoha as fast as I can, then rush over to help fight. Wouldn't want to risk you three getting hurt."

"Look, we're trying." Kazuo hissed in response. "Again, you're above our skill-level-"

"And what about that guy who jumped you in the Second Exam?" Anko asked. "The guy with the Swift Release?"

"That…" Kazuo grit his teeth in response: "That was different; he wasn't as strong as you. And he still wiped the floor with us. We would have been dead if Team Nine didn't get involved, and then all six of us would be dead if that Kusa jōnin didn't arrive!"

"But you still fought back." Anko replied, causing Kazuo's eyes to widen.

She waited for the purple-haired genin to speak, but he did not reply. She sighed as she finally got off Yūna and helped her fellow kunoichi on to her feet. She then rushed over to stand side-by-side with her teammates, who all looked at Anko.

"I'm not expecting you all to actually defeat me, or even land much of a hit on me, but I am expecting more of an effort. And I'm seeing more of a half-assed attempts from all of you." Anko said. "You're thinking about that encounter with that Amuda guy the wrong way. Don't look it as if you almost died; think of it as having fought against someone stronger and you still pushed him."

Her eyes narrowed on the three Team Eight members: "I know you three are capable brats. And I know there's a chance once the 'exams' are over and the real mission begins that you all might get jumped by someone. I want to know that, at the very least, you'll try and fight them. And maybe you'll win. Or maybe you'll hold him off long enough for backup. But I know for a fact that if you clam up like you're doing right now against me, you'll die. And I refuse to let you three die like that when I know you all could have lived!"

Kazuo, Tsunemasa, and Yūna were quiet still as they continued to stare at Anko. The jōnin's narrowed eyes began to soften slightly and a frown developed on her face.

"Look, I'm not trying to be a bitch." She said with a sigh. Her hands then tightened into fists. "But I just want you all to survive. I promised your sensei I'd keep you all alive and I'm sticking to it."

"… We know." Tsunemasa stated. A sigh then escaped the Aburame's mouth: "Perhaps you are right. We might be a little discouraged after the fight in the Raiun Fields."

"And that's understandable. Trust me. My brats were shaken up during the Chūnin Exams when Orochimaru decided to attack them." Anko hissed the name as an image of the Edo Tensei version of her sensei appeared in her mind. She quickly shook her head, forcing the image out for now, and focused back on the genin. "But the important thing is to not let shit like that take over."

"We… understand." Yūna said, bowing her head slightly. "We're sorry for being a disappointment right now, Anko-sensei."

"Eh, disappointment's a harsh word." Anko said, her frown deepening: "I just want to make sure you all are working hard. Cause I know you got the potential." A grin then developed on her face: "Because from what I heard from you all and from the Team Nine genin, I know you all got some wicked ass tricks up your sleeves. You are all going to make some damn good shinobi, if you keep working on it."

"You… really think so?" Kazuo asked, biting his lip.

"Yes." She nodded her head: "And I'm not the type to sugarcoat things to make you feel better. If I say something, I believe it." Her grin then softened into a sincere smile: "And I genuinely believe it."

The Team Eight genin were, once again, quiet. Anko stared back at them for a few seconds until both Kazuo and Yūna smiled back in response. Tsunemasa simply nodded his head, which is the closest Anko was going to get of a positive reaction coming from that boy.

"Alright then. Can we try that exercise again?" Kazuo asked.

"Heh. Sure." Anko's smile turned into a smirk as she tensed-up. "Alright, try and land one hit on me again. Go!"

The three genin nodded their heads as they prepared to strike at her once more.

---

Upon returning back to Genbu, Naruto rushed through the jungles of the island towards the Waterfall of Truth and hurried into the temple behind. He then ran towards the same chamber marked with the Nibi's head and entered the technicolored room, joining the other jinchūriki, who were all already in their Chakra Shrouds.

Bee's and Yugito's training routine was actually relatively 'open-ended' for the jinchūriki. Each jinchūriki had their own unique chakra shrouds and unique abilities related to their bijū that were now open to them. Therefore, the two Kumo jinchūriki simply allowed everyone free reign to experiment with their new powers to see what they were capable of.

There were plans for specific training regiments of things that all jinchūriki could do – Bee was quick to mention how 'Every jinchūriki worth their shit, should be able to use the bijūdama and blow their enemy to bits' – but those lessons were to occur after everyone had the opportunity to get more familiar with their chakra shrouds.

"Good to see you're here, Naruto." Gaara said, smiling at the blond. "I trust your students' training is going well."

"Yeah, they're definitely getting stronger. I'm going to go back and see their development in five days, so I'll be excited to see what they're capable of doing." Naruto said, smirking. "So, how's training going so far today?"

Gaara's smile developed into a smirk of his own: "Let me show you something. Can you create me a shadow clone?"

Naruto nodded his head as he made a hand sign, creating a single shadow clone.

Gaara made a hand sign, which caused sand from his cloak to rush forward at the shadow clone. The clone tried to jump away from the attack, but the sand managed to tap onto his boot. Upon impact, black markings developed on the sand, resembling the same cursed marks on Shukaku's body and Gaara's chakra shroud.

The sand had only tapped onto the clone's body for a second and did not hit with enough force that it would grab onto him. Nevertheless, though, the black curse marks spread onto the clone's body.

"The hell are these?" The clone asked, his eyes narrowed on the markings.

Gaara turned away from Naruto and his shadow clone and reached for the 'Spear of Shukaku'. Gripping the halberd tightly, he tossed the weapon away, towards the door to the room. However, upon flying through the air, the halberd switched directions, flying towards the shadow clone once again.

The clone's eyes widened as he dodge-rolled, narrowly avoiding getting skewered. The halberd, however, changed direction once more and impaled itself into the clone, dispelling it.

"Whoa!" Naruto's eyes widened as he stared at the Kazekage: "How the hell did you do that?"

"I can magnetize anything my sand touches." Gaara explained as he held out his hand. Immediately, the 'Spear of Shukaku' rushed right back to him. "All it takes is for me to make contact once and then there's no way the enemy can avoid me." A chuckle escaped his lips as he crossed his arms: "At that point, evasion will be useless; they'll have to hope their defenses are strong enough."

"Heh." Naruto grinned as he rubbed the back of his head. "Glad you couldn't pull this shit off back when we fought. You'd have my ass in a sand coffin before I could do anything."

"I'm certain you could have thought of something to avoid death, but yes, it would have been much more difficult for you. I am glad I did not have these capabilities back then." Gaara said. He quickly attached the halberd back in its holster: "It is almost addicting how strong this power is. It is already great that I can simply use the Spear of Shukaku without the chakra cost required to create it in the first place. I am finding more-and-more things about this form that make it more desirable."

"It's not just you, though! Check what I can do!"

Before Naruto and Gaara could reply to the voice, a net made of green-colored chakra strings fell from the air on top of them. Upon surrounding the two jinchūriki, the strings began to spiral around them in a spinning-motion.

Naruto and Gaara turned their attention upwards to see Fū flying directly above them.

"This is what you were saying your 'inner darkness' could do, right?" Naruto asked.

"Yup. Freely control the chakra threads, making them bend to my will like ropes almost. And they're now sturdier and stickier." Fū said, grinning: "I could also make them blow-up right now, but I like you guys, so I'll try and avoid killing you two!"

"Do you actually think you could kill us?" Gaara asked. "Sounds rather presumptuous, don't you think?"

Fū's eyes narrowed: "Is that a challenge, Kazekage-sama?"

"Oi, if you're going to fight, can I at least get out of here?" Naruto asked with an uneasy laugh. "Kinda would like to train a bit myself before I get roped into a spar."

Fū nodded her head as the net opened up, freeing Naruto and Gaara. The Nanabi jinchūriki then flew downward towards Gaara, who appeared to be getting ready for a spar.

Naruto walked away from the two and moved to a corner of the technicolor room by himself. He closed his eyes for a second as he began channeling Kurama's chakra. Within seconds, his body was surrounded by the chakra cloak.

'So, Kurama, what should I try working on today?' Naruto asked.

"You learned how to use the chakra arms yesterday, so why don't you try experimenting with more of my techniques?" Kurama suggested. A snort then escaped his lips: "Or do some experimentation on your own. You don't need my helping hand the entire time. You might discover something like that one ROOT guy did with the lightning and his tails."

Naruto snorted in response: 'You're still focused on that jutsu, aren't you?'

"I had never considered something like that before, dammit!" The Kyūbi growled. "So forgive me for being the tiniest bit curious if you are able to replicate it!"

"Fine. Fine." Naruto replied aloud. The Uzumaki closed his eyes for a second as chakra arms started to form around his body: "Lightning Style: Tailed Beast Storm!"

The chakra arms began to glow as lightning was starting to emit from them. Naruto then slammed them into the ground, causing a powerful shockwave to hit the floor and rush throughout the area before quickly sizzling out.

"Well, that didn't seem right." Naruto said, frowning. "I think Kido's jutsu was more like scattered lightning shots rather than a shockwave. And they bounced."

"That's why you need to practice with it." Kurama stated, rolling his eyes. "You're not too well-versed in lightning style techniques anyway, other than the basic ones you know. This should be some good experimentation into the art."

"Yeah, yeah. I'll be working on it-" Naruto's words died on his throat for a second.

His mind flashed back to his confrontation with 'Menma' at the Waterfall of Truth. He recalled the various techniques his 'inner darkness' was capable of using; the 'Rasen Ring', the redirecting 'protective winds' fūinjutsu, and the ability to fly and create winds that could blow him away with just a movement of his hands.

"Maybe you had the potential to be like me, but you never capitalized on it. All you do is just waste your time!"

"I never wasted my time…" Naruto grumbled as his hands tightened. "Hey, Kurama, once we master this lightning style jutsu, I have a few things I want to work on."

"Work on whatever you want. You have time." Kurama stated sharply. "Just make sure that whatever you work on is worth our time. We only have a finite amount of time and we need to kill Madara once and for all during this invasion."

"Trust me, it'll be worth the time." Naruto said sharply, his eyes narrowing: "And that bastard will die, once and for all. Trust me."

With those words, Naruto began to focus on his training, working on channeling lightning chakra precisely to replicate Kido's jutsu. Even though he was still working on that jutsu, though, he was already making plans for what to work on after.

This was going to be very relevant set of training sessions.

---

As predicted, the Konohagakure shinobi arrive at the gates of Kumogakure just before Noon, at 11:43. The shinobi all gazed at the gates to the village.

"So, we're here." Hiashi said quietly, his eyes narrowing on the 'Kumo' logo written above the gates: 'It's almost insulting to even be here.'

"Father…" Neji's hands tightened into fists.

"Neji-nii-san." Hinata spoke-up, placing her right hand on his shoulder. He turned to face her. She smiled back at him: "It's okay. We'll get through this."

"… Yes." He replied, nodding his head as he looked forward back to the gate.

A few seconds passed by as the gates to the village were opened. A group of ten Kumo shinobi walked forward and took a spot in front of the Konoha shinobi. Two Kumo shinobi, Mabui and Dodai, walked forward and bowed.

"It's an honor to welcome you into our village, Hokage-sama." Mabui greeted.

Jiraiya's eyes focused on the kunoichi for a moment before wandering down to her chest. A deep red blush developed on his face, but he quickly shook his head: 'No, Jiraiya, this isn't the time and place for that.' He took in a deep breath, trying to envision the importance of this mission and not focus on Mabui's body. 'Time. And. Place.'

He finally brought his eyes forward, making direct eye-contact with her and nodded his head: "Thank you. I assume you are all here to escort us into the village."

"Correct." Mabui said. "I will be escorting you, Hokage-sama, to meet with Raikage-sama, as well as anyone you feel is necessary. The rest of the shinobi will be escorted to their lodgings."

"Keep attendance down to a minimum." Dodai spoke-up, crossing his arms.

"Gotcha." Jiraiya nodded his head before turning his attention to the back. "Tsunade-hime, Masakado-san, and Shikaku-san, please come with me."

The three shinobi nodded their heads and took steps forward, standing directly next to Jiraiya.

'Already being put to work, huh Dad?' Shikamaru noted with a chuckle.

"Dodai and I'll be escorting the four of you to the Raikage's Office." Mabui stated. "The rest of you, please follow the remaining shinobi here. Once you are brought to your rooms and have your keys, feel free to explore Kumo to your heart's content. Make yourselves at home."

With those words, the shinobi all split-apart, heading in the direction of their next objective.

---

A few minutes had passed before Mabui and Dodai had arrived at the Raikage's Office with their escort. The two Kumo shinobi, alongside Darui, took spots standing next to the Raikage's Desk while Ē remained in his seat, looking forward intently.

Jiraiya took a chair directly in front of the desk, staring intently into Ē's eyes. Tsunade, Masakado, and Shikaku all stood to his side, staring intently at him.

"I trust you've already been informed about the events during the Second Chūnin Exams, correct?" Ē asked.

"Yes." Jiraiya nodded his head. A frown then developed on his face: "I'm surprised to hear that Oyashiro showed his ugly head over here. It's a rare sight for that man to be spotted anywhere nowadays."

"It is rare, but it also presents an interesting opportunity." Darui noted as he crossed his arms: "Gives us a chance to finally put him down."

"Indeed. As well as this Akatsuki organization." Ē stated as he brought his hands together. His eyes then focused on the Hokage: "The one agent of Oyashiro's that I spared was the one masquerading as a Kumo shinobi and he attacked two of your village's genin teams. It would be a good idea to inform the shinobi you brought with you to act hostile towards our village's shinobi in verbal encounters, as long as they don't get violent."

"Trust me; it won't be hard to act 'hostile' towards Kumo shinobi." Masakado noted with a scowl.

Ē turned to face the red-haired man, scowling back: "You are Uzumaki Masakado, right? The last 'Kage' of Uzushiogakure?" Masakado nodded his head, which earned a snort from the Raikage: "Rather arrogant of your village – a minor village – to think its leader was worthy of that title."

Masakado glared in response: "Perhaps it was arrogant. The Uzumaki Clan was never known for being humble. We were known for being resilient, though." He shook his head as his scowl twisted upwards into a smirk: "So resilient that it required the combined effort of your village, Iwa, and Kiri to rout us. So perhaps we had the skills necessary to 'back up' that arrogance."

Ē glared back and grit his teeth. He appeared as if he had something else he wanted to say, but he shook his head and turned his head away towards the Hokage.

"Hostility like that will do. It is imperative to create as much visible 'bad blood' as possible." The Yondaime Raikage stated. "Akatsuki has to have some spies in this village in order to sneak in both that Kabuto bastards and those Oyashiro grunts, so it's important to maintain pretense as much as possible and make sure Akatsuki does not suspect our villages are working together."

"That'll be possible, yes." Jiraiya stated. "Do you know when the Kazekage, Tsuchikage, and Mizukage are going to arrive?"

"You should know precisely were the Kazekage is right now, however an emissary of Suna should be arriving shortly on his behalf. As should the Mizukage and Tsuchikage." Ē answered. "I suspect in four days, they will be here."

"Once they arrive, we can plan out a better plan of attack." Shikaku stated as he brought his right hand to his chin. "Other than the known Akatsuki agents and Oyashiro, is there anyone you are expecting to be a part of the Akatsuki's numbers? Since they are planning a full invasion, it would be beneficial to assume they have other numbers amongst them."

"We are planning under the assumption that multiple Kumo missing ninja are going to be amongst their ranks. And any missing ninja in Kaminari no Kuni in general." Dodai stated. "We have multiple shinobi currently hunting down as many of the missing ninja as we speak to hopefully reduce those numbers."

"In addition, that 'Kabuto' bastard knows your village's forbidden jutsu – the Edo Tensei." Ē said with a snort. "Why did your Nidaime Hokage invent that jutsu? It doesn't fit the 'pristine' image your village tries so hard to maintain."

Tsunade frowned in response: "I don't know what my grand-uncle was thinking when he made that jutsu, but that doesn't really matter. You're right; Akatsuki has access to it. So we should expect some powerful shinobi from the previous generations."

"Yakushi Kabuto has been reported having summoned the Yondaime Kazekage, the Nidaime Mizukage, and our fellow Sannin, Orochimaru." Jiraiya stated with a sigh. "It's no telling how many samples he already has."

"I would imagine we could assume he has the DNA samples for former Akatsuki members." Mabui answered. "A few of them have been killed, haven't they?"

"Yes. Kakuzu from Takigakure, Jūzō Biwa of Kirigakure, and Nasumareta of Kumogakure are the only three former members we have info on, though." Jiraiya stated. A frown then developed on his face: "Well, them and the aforementioned Orochimaru."

"Nasumareta…" Darui said the name, frowning: "Think there's a real chance Akatsuki will try reviving that guy?"

"I'd imagine they have access to his DNA. It makes sense they'd bring him back." Shikaku said.

A sigh escaped his lips: "Having to fight him here, huh? Suppose that's not dull, though."

"You're Darui, correct?" Tsunade asked. Darui nodded his head: "Nasumareta was your brother then?" Darui, again, nodded his head. "Are you comfortable with the idea of potentially seeing your brother reanimated again and fighting him again?"

"I fight for Kumo." Darui answered sharply: "I'll have no problem fighting him."

"Regardless, we're speaking in hypotheticals. We'll waste too much time if we try and analyze all possible Edo Tensei summons that the Akatsuki could have on their side." Ē said sharply. His eyes narrowed on Jiraiya: "We'll continue this conversation later once the other Kage are here. Bring your advisers here with you. Once we're all together, we can develop our plan of attack."

Jiraiya, alongside Tsunade, Masakado, and Shikaku, all nodded their heads in response.

---

Upon being escorted back to their rooms, the remaining Konoha shinobi were given freedom to explore Kumo to their hearts' content. As such, the remaining shinobi dispersed.

Shikamaru walked down the streets of Kumogakure by himself, taking in the sights of the village. He noticed the villagers along the streets tended to give him somewhat dirty looks, but they were mostly keeping to themselves and away from him. A sigh escaped his lips as he pocketed his hands.

'Reminds me of Iwa when all that shit was going down. Although this makes more sense. We've never had a good relationship with Kumo.' Shikamaru noted, frowning. 'Hopefully things will change, though.'

His eyes then moved away from the village streets and towards the clouds. His eyes gradually raised in elevation, taking note of the clouds level with the streets towards the clouds towering in the sky above the village.

'Not gonna lie, it's weird to look at clouds like this. Never thought I'd actually be able to 'touch' one.'Shikamaru said with a chuckle. 'Still, though… this place is nice. Very nice.' A yawn escaped his lips: 'I could easily find a nice, quiet, isolated cliff or something to set up a camp, look up at the clouds, and just go to sleep.'

"Hey Shikamaru!"

The Nara pulled himself out of his thoughts and looked downward. Standing across the street from him was Chōji, Ino, and Shino. Both Chōji and Ino rushed over to his side while Shino slowly walked over.

"Chōji!" Shikamaru stated with a grin as he high-fived the Akimichi. He then turned to face the other approaching shinobi: "Ino. Shino. Good to see you all here too."

"I can see you made it over safe." Shino noted. "That's a relief to see."

"Yeah, we just got here today." Shikamaru said with a shrug. "So, while Hokage-sama is meeting with the Raikage, we're given free reign to explore the village for a bit."

"Bet you're absolutely loving it here." Ino said, rolling her eyes as she gestured towards the clouds: "You could take a damn nap on a cloud, couldn't you?"

"I didn't even think of that." Shikamaru snorted in response as a grin developed on his face: "Will take you up on that for later."

"That wasn't a suggestion-" Ino sighed, shaking her head. "Whatever, we're busy right now, so don't expect us to be joining you on your little cloud nap."

"Wasn't expecting you to." Shikamaru said with a chuckle before a curious look developed on his face: "So, what are you all doing then?"

Chōji began to speak: "We're going to lunch-"

"We're finding Chōji the perfect date!" Ino declared.

"… Huh?" Shikamaru blinked in response.

Chōji started to redden slightly while Shino shook his head, sighing. Ino appeared oblivious to hear teammates' reactions and turned to face Shikamaru with a grin.

"So, we thankfully found Shino a beautiful girl in the form of that Taki kunoichi, Fū, so I thought-"

"Wait, are you and Fū a thing?" Shikamaru asked, turning to face the Aburame.

"Not that I am aware of." Shino said, another sigh escaping his lips. "Fū-san and I are friendly with one another, however-"

"He has a thing for her. He just won't admit it." Ino interrupted. Shino turned to stare at Ino – and Shikamaru could tell that he was glaring at her behind his sunglasses – but she appeared to ignore it: "Regardless, he's found his girl so I don't need to worry about him. Now it's Chōji's turn to find someone special! And since the trick to finding Shino's girlfriend was a foreign kunoichi, that's clearly something we should take advantage of while we're here!"

"Ino. Please. Stop." Chōji shook his head, frowning as his blush reddened: "I don't need your help to find a girlfriend. When I meet someone, I'll try on my own."

"'When you meet someone'. Bah. It's that lazy attitude that's preventing you from having someone already!" Ino declared, crossing her arms. "Don't worry, Chōji! I'm sure there's something-" Her eyes widened as she pointed forward: "What about her?"

Chōji, Shikamaru, and Shino turned their attention towards two Kumogakure shinobi who were walking out of a shop: a boy with white, spiky hair and a girl with long, spiky red hair. The boy was carrying a small wrapped box.

"Do you think Atsui's going to like the gift?" Omoi asked.

"You know him better than me." Karui replied with a snort: "You should know that."

"I know that, Karui, but I really would just like to hear a secondary opinion." Omoi said, frowning: "Because he's one of those guys who birthdays mean a lot to him, so we need to get him something special. And I think he'd really the pair of sunglasses, but what if he doesn't? This pair wasn't cheap, you know? And the cashier back there said no refunds." The boy shook his head, his frown deepening: "And I really can't afford to be wasting money right now, so this probably wasn't even the best decision to get in the first place, but it'll all be worth it if Atsui likes it. But if he doesn't, then this was just a waste of time and I don't even wear sunglasses, so what would I do with them-"

"Oi, dumbass; you're rambling again!" Karui shouted, a scowl on her face. Omoi stopped speaking and faced his teammate: "Look, Atsui thinks he's hot shit, so he's gonna love them. And if you really want another fucking opinion, then we'll find and ask Samui." She then gestured forward: "Now, can we just walk back in peace? Cause I'd really like to have a normal walk through the village and not have to listen to your bullshit, alright?"

"… Fine." Omoi sighed in response.

As the two Kumo shinobi continued to walk forward, Ino grinned as she pointed her finger directly at the red-haired girl, then turned her head back to Chōji.

"What do you think of her?" She asked.

"Uhh…" Chōji rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, his blush darkening. "She's really pretty, yes."

"Ah! So you do think she's pretty?" Ino said, her grin widening: "Would you even call her sexy?"

Chōji's cheeks reddened even further.

'Well shit.' Shikamaru chuckled as he stared at his friend's face: 'That's a shade of red that Hinata would be impressed with.'

"D-Do you really have to say 'sexy' like that?" Chōji asked: "Ino-"

"You do find her sexy! Great!" Ino nodded her head. She then tightened her hands into fists: "Her name's Karui… I think that's what that guy with her called her. Come on; let's introduce you to her!"

"Ino, leave him be. Why? You're making him uncomfortable." Shino said, frowning: "If you are that interested in romance, perhaps you should focus on yourself. Perhaps you might a nice, attractive Kumo man if you spend less time looking out for Chōji."

"I'm not interested." Ino said, shaking her head as she focused on Karui's retreating figure. She then grabbed Chōji by the hand and started to rush forward "Now come on Chōji, let's go meet her and see if she's cool!"

"W-Wait, Ino!" Chōji called out as she began to drag him forward. A door then opened from a shop in front of them: "Ino, be careful-"

His words were too slow and Ino accidentally rushed head-first into the person, causing her, Chōji, and the person to fall to the ground.

"Owww." Ino grumbled as she pulled herself off.

"Ino, I was trying to tell you to be careful." Chōji grumbled, shaking his head.

Ino scowled in response at her teammate before turning her attention to the person she ran into: "I'm so sorry, I wasn't watching where I was going-"

Her words died on her lips as she realized who she had run into; a kunoichi from Suna she had met in the Chūnin Exams. Around her feet was a ripped bag that had scattered chestnuts all over the ground.

"Dammit, I dropped the whole bag. What a waste." Temari groaned.

"Uh…" Ino closed her eyes for a second, trying to refresh her memory of her name: "Temari, right?"

"That's me. How do you-" Temari's eyes widened after she turned to face Ino. A snort escaped her lips as she crossed her arms over her chest: "You're one of the kunoichi from the Konoha Chūnin Exams." She chuckled slightly: "So, you're the bitch who made me spill my whole bag, huh?"

"Hey, I'm not a bitch!" Ino scowled.

"Oh, my bad." Temari chuckled again as her eyes went back to the spilled chestnuts bag: "So you're just some careless person who bumps into people, making them drop their shit, with no regard for their stuff, huh?"

Ino's scowl dropped and she rubbed the back of her head sheepishly: "Look, I'm sorry about that, alright? How about I buy you a new bag of…" Her eyes narrowed on the chestnuts on the ground: "… those things."

"They're chestnuts. Sweet chestnuts. They're really good." Temari stated. She then shook her head: "And I'm just messing with you; I can buy another bag for myself-"

"No, I ran into you. It's my fault, so I'll replace it." Ino stated as she turned towards the door.

"Well thanks…" Temari said. A frown then developed as she stared at her fellow blonde kunoichi: "… Ino, right?"

She nodded her head: "Yup. Yamanaka Ino."

With those words, the two kunoichi walked into the shop together, leaving Chōji alone. Shikamaru and Shino walked over to his side, staring at the door.

"Well, that happened." Shikamaru said plainly.

"She needs to be more careful." Chōji said with a sigh.

"I'll say. I fought that Temari girl in the invasion; she's not someone I'd want to piss off like that." Shikamaru said with a shrug.

"Temari-san did not appear to be pissed. In fact, she seemed more amused with Ino." Shino noted.

"I suppose." Shikamaru shrugged his shoulders. He then turned to face Chōji, a smirk on his face: "Alright, Ino's not here to force you to follow that girl, so just be honest with us. Chōji, you like her, don't you?"

"Shikamaru, not you too…" Chōji groaned in response, his blush returning: "I don't even know her! I've never spoken to her before!"

"Chōji, you're taking him too seriously." Shino shook his head.

Chōji only sighed in response, while Shikamaru chuckled in response.

It had been a while, but it was nice to be around the Akimichi like this. So hopefully Chōji would be able to put up with a little more teasing than normal.

---

'Mmm, that hits the spot.' Anko sighed peacefully as she finished her dango stick.

After finishing up training with Team Eight, the genin were given permission to explore the village for a while and do whatever they felt was necessary before reconvening for training again in five hours. Anko took the opportunity alone to order some dango from a street vendor and walk over back to their apartment so she can rest until it was time.

Upon arriving at the building, she threw away her trash in the bin in the lobby and proceed to walk up the stairs towards the third floor. As she took her first step onto the floor, she saw a familiar face standing in front of her door. Anko's eyes lit-up slightly as she waved forward.

"Yo, what's up Yūgao?" Anko asked.

Yūgao nodded her head in acknowledgement as Anko approached her. When the two purple-haired shinobi were face-to-face, Yūgao crossed her arms.

"How are your students, Anko-san?" She asked.

Anko's eyebrow raised slightly in response, but she smirked back at her.

"They're doing alright. Just trying to get in as much training as possible before everything goes to shit." She answered. "So far they're getting it. They're starting to take the training more seriously."

Yūgao nodded her head: "That's a relief to hear. I heard about what happened in the Second Exam."

"Same." Anko's smirk faded into a frown for a moment before she shook her head, the smirk returning to her face as quickly as it left: "But hey, they managed to survive a fight with a jōnin-level shinobi. Shows that those three kids got promise. And with just a bit more training, I'll be really confident in their abilities and chances of survival."

"I hope you would be. You are responsible for them, after all." Yūgao's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Uh… yeah, I know?" Anko scowled in response: "I was aware of that responsibility when I took them as my temporary students on behalf of Kurenai."

"Hmm." Yūgao hummed slightly as she looked away momentarily, focusing on the door to the room: "I'd like to assist in training them."

"Assist in training the three, or wanting to train Kazuo?" Anko asked. Yūgao scowled in response, which earned a sigh from 'Konoha's Snake Mistress': "Well, I welcome the help in training them, if you want."

"Good." Yūgao nodded her head: "I would like to go over training plans with you, then."

She gestured towards the door to the room. Anko nodded her head and pulled out the key. After unlocking the door. She opened it and walked into the doorway, but stopped in her place there. She then turned to face Yūgao with a sad smile.

"You know, we haven't talked much in a while, haven't we?" She said with a bitter chuckle. "Sorry."

"What is there to be sorry about?" Yūgao asked. "We are both shinobi, Anko-san. We have duties to the village that are more important than our acquaintanceship."

"'Acquaintanceship', huh? That's how you describe it now?" Anko frowned in response: "So all those days of you and Hayate coming over for dinner or meeting me at the bars are just… things acquaintances do, huh?"

Yūgao's scowl deepened, but she did not say anything in response. She simply stared at Anko with her narrowed eyes. Anko's frown deepened as she averted her eyes slightly

"… Okay, probably shouldn't mention him like that. Sorry." Anko's frown deepened. "That was uncalled for."

"… No need to apologize." Yūgao sighed in response: "It's just… things changed. After Hayate's death." Another sigh escaped her lips: "Nothing's been the same since."

"I know. Trust me." Anko said, shaking her head: "Still miss him like hell. Know it's gotta be worse for you, though."

Silence filled the hallway as the two purple-haired shinobi stared at one another with quiet, pensive expressions. Seconds passed by before Anko finally cleared her throat and gestured towards the door. Yūgao nodded her head and followed the 'Seven Swordsman of the Mist' member into the room. The two then took a seat on the couch.

"Well, how do you-"

"Hey, Yūgao." Anko spoke-up, interrupting the ANBU agent. Her eyes narrowed on the jōnin-sensei: "You… probably don't need advice or affirmation right now, but I'm just going to say it. Cause I know you and how your mind works." She took in a breath for a second before her eyes narrowed: "I know you're still upset about Hayate, but that doesn't mean you have to stress about Kazuo. Your brother's going to be safe. You just have to trust in his abilities."

"… Hayate was the best swordsman in Konoha. I trusted him to be safe." Yūgao's eyes narrowed: "But sometimes, they cross an unexpected enemy and that trust is shattered."

Anko nodded her head in understanding: "Fair, but what good is it going to do you if you're stressing out about your brother's chances? Help him out, sure, but if you spend all this time worrying about him, you'll stop caring for yourself and then you'll be the one cut down." A frown then developed on her lips: "And then you'll leave him behind with his trust in you 'shattered'."

Yūgao was quiet for a moment, averting Anko's eyes. A second passed by before she looked back up at her, scowling.

"I didn't ask for a lecture." She said.

"Wasn't trying to give you one." Anko frowned. "Just trying to help."

"I… I know." Yūgao's eyes softened slightly for a moment before she shook her head: "I assure you, my attention is focused on this mission entirely and its success. I will not die here. Now, I just want to discuss with you the best ways to ensure Kazuo and his team do not either."

Anko nodded her head in response. With those words, the two kunoichi began to discuss a training regime for Team Eight.

---

Once Jiraiya, Tsunade, Masakado, and Shikaku finished their meeting with the Raikage, the Konoha shinobi walked their separate ways. Jiraiya and Tsunade walked off together towards the village while Shikaku moved towards the apartments that they will be staying at.

Masakado, upon leaving, was greeted by Susumu outside the building. The two Uzumaki then walked through the village together.

The two remained silent on their walk, seemingly walking aimlessly, until they reached a market in the village. As they started to see more-and-more shinobi, proudly wearing the Kumogakure forehead protectors, a scowl developed on Masakado's face. Susumu's eyes focused on the elder Uzumaki and a frown developed on his lips.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

"Don't ask stupid questions; you already know the answer." Masakado scoffed in response. Susumu's frown deepened, which caused the elder Uzumaki to sigh: "Sorry. Just feeling conflicted about being here."

"Because of Uzushio?" Susumu questioned.

"I managed to forgive Kiri, because of their civil war and I believe things changed there. And although I still don't like Iwa, I recognize that Ōnoki changed before he died and it appears like the village and Konoha are on good terms. But Kumo…" His eyes narrowed: "Fuck this place. And fuck all the people here."

"You are aware that the majority of the shinobi around us had nothing to do with that decision, yes?" Susumu asked, shaking his head. "Do not blame them for what happened in the past."

"I'm aware of that, dammit!" Masakado scowled in response. "But that fucking forehead protector, as far as I'm concerned, is a cancer!" He then tightened his hands into fists: "And the center of that cancer is the goddamn Raikage. Bah. He reminds of the Sandaime Raikage, only even angrier." A snort then escaped his lips: "And yes, we have to be here and help them. Fate's a bitch."

"I suppose." Susumu said. His eyes then narrowed on the elder Uzumaki: "But you must understand that we are doing more than acting and helping the Raikage's village. We are helping all the innocents of this village, as well. As well as the Elemental Nations as a whole."

"'Innocents'." Masakado snorted in response.

"Masakado-san, I'm being serious." Susumu shook his head, his eyes narrowing further into a glare: "When Yagura began his rampage in Mizu no Kuni and my parents died at the hand of his Kiri shinobi, I did not blame all those that were still in Kiri. There were still people uninvolved in the issue. I am able to recognize that. And you need to be able to as well."

The two men were quiet for a moment as they stopped walking and glared at one another. A few more seconds passed by before Susumu's eyes started to lower slightly.

"My apologies. I was out of line to speak with you like that, especially on this sensitive subject." Susumu said, frowning.

"You're fine." Masakado said, shaking his head. "I… understand you mean well."

The two grew quiet once again as they continued on their walk back to their apartment. Once they finally escaped the market and less Kumo shinobi were present, Masakado turned his head back to his clansman.

"It's hard, but I'm trying." He said, sighing. "I'll do everything in my power to keep this village safe, despite my feelings."

"I know you will. We all will." Susumu said. "My words were more to help you move on, I suppose." A small smile developed on his lips: "Not for Kumo's sake, but for yours. And not forgive the Raikage or even the shinobi involved, but just be able to live life without these feelings."

"I've already been trying all of that. Why do you think I even moved to Konoha and left Uzushio in the first place? Moving on is a bitch." Masakado said, crossing his arms. "… But I can keep trying on this subject." His eyes focused on Susumu and a chuckle escaped his lips: "You're pretty level-headed, you know that?"

"I suppose." Susumu admitted with a chuckle of his own.

"Most Uzumaki aren't like that. You'll find a few calm ones, but even those ones got their tempers. You glared at me a little back then, but you're still really calm with your emotions." Masakado continued, his laughter growing: "Honestly, if I didn't know your skillset and your lineage, I'd think you were a fake Uzumaki."

"Well, when you spend the most of your formative years on the run from Kiri shinobi, and then spend even more years later trying to raise a daughter on your own, you'll find yourself become more 'level-headed' out of necessity." Susumu responded with a chuckle.

"It probably would have been better historically if more Uzumaki were like you." The elder admitted with a sigh. "We were a prideful bunch. Perhaps if we weren't, we could have avoided-"

"Masakado-jī-san?"

Masakado's eyes widened at the sound of the voice. He turned his head forward just as they were about to pass a corner and came face-to-face with Karin. A grin developed on his face as he rushed forward and hugged the girl, who quickly returned the hug.

"Karin! What are you doing here? It's great to see you!" Masakado exclaimed.

"I-I'm here for the Chūnin Exams with my genin team!" Karin replied, hugging him tightly as her eyes started to redden: "I haven't seen you since the days back in Uzushiogakure! It's so good to see you again!"

"You're right." Masakado noted, laughing slightly as he tightened the hug: "We have a lot to catch-up on."

As the two Uzumaki finally broke their hug, Masakado turned his attention to Susumu. He gestured towards the man.

"Karin, allow me to introduce you to Uzumaki Susumu." He said before gesturing back towards the Kusa jōnin. "Susumu, meet one of our clansman, Uzumaki Karin!"

Susumu smiled in response while Karin grinned back at the man. The two Uzumaki, despite being complete strangers, rushed forward to one another and hugged the other tightly, embracing like lost family.

The three Uzumaki Clan members proceeded to walk back towards the apartments, chatting about life and their shared heritage.

---

Upon finishing up with training, the nine jinchūriki all left the Bijū Temple and returned back to Killer Bee's Mansion. Upon entering the kitchen, they – alongside Hotaru and Motoi – were treated to dinner as Yugito cooked an extravagant dinner: freshly caught red snapper served with rice, takoyaki, green beans, and a ginger salad.

"I have to say, you are a fantastic cook, Yugito-san." Han said in between bites of his fish. "Thank you again."

Yugito smirked in response: "Think nothing of it."

"You need to let one of us take over the cooking next time." Yagura noted as he finished off his green beans. "You've cooked every night here so far; why don't you take a break tomorrow and let one of us cook?"

"I volunteer us!" Hotaru spoke-up as she gestured towards herself and Utakata. "I have a really good ham recipe I learned from my grandfather a long time ago, so Utakata-sensei and I can make something really special!"

"I'm not sure how much help I will be, but Hotaru's recipe is good." Utakata said, chuckling. "If you wish, we can take over tomorrow."

"If you two want, go ahead." Yugito shrugged her shoulders: "But don't do it for my behalf. I like cooking, so this has been rather fun for me." A chuckle then escaped her lips: "Normally it's all just for myself, though, so it's been fun seeing how you all react to everything."

"So you like to cook, huh?" Fū smirked. "What a M-"

"If you're about to call me 'Mom' again, I will cut you.." Yugito said calmly, her smirk twisting into a smile as she turned her head to face Fū. She then held out her right hand in front of her face as her claws elongated: "Then tomorrow, we'll be trying fried horned-beetle."

"… Hmph." Fū scowled in response: "Real nice way to treat your daughter." She felt a spike in 'killing intent' coming from Yugito as her claws seemingly sharpened: "Hey, I didn't call you 'Mom' so you can't say shit!"

"Cheeky little shit." Yugito grumbled as her claws rescinded back into her fingers.

Killer Bee chuckled in response: "Gotta say, Number Seven, you know the exact buttons of Miss Yugito's to press. Pretty soon, she'll be coming for you and you'll be in duress."

"Oh no, she's going to kill me? What should I do, Bee?" Fū exclaimed dramatically as she brought her hand to her chest: "What will happen if we fight? Is it I who will die tonight?"

Both Bee and Fū laughed after her rap and the two proceeded to high-five one another. The rest of the room started to chuckle lightly as well, with the exception of Yugito; she glared at both of them, her hands tightening into fists.

'Goddammit, I can't believe there's now two rappers here.' She grumbled. 'This is the fucking worst.'

"You know, you two are rather good at wordplay." Rōshi noted, rubbing his chin as he turned his attention away from his food and towards Bee and Fū. "Ever thought of being writers?"

"Hmm?" Fū turned her head to face the Yonbi jinchūriki: "Well, I write poetry, actually." A sheepish smile developed on her lips: "I actually am working on an anthology that I'd like to publish."

"And I'm a musician in my soul! My songs will electrify the world whole!" Bee declared proudly.

"Gotcha." Rōshi nodded his head: "Just thought I'd ask. You two kids got some talent, so you need to make sure to use them. It'd be a waste to not use your creative talents."

"Wait, Bee, do you actually plan on releasing your dumb raps?" Yugito asked, turning her attention to him.

Bee nodded his head: "When things calm down, I want to perform. My music will strike hearts with the force of a storm."

"Huh." Yugito hummed to herself for a moment: "Didn't know that."

The rest of dinner was quiet for a moment as the jinchūriki, Hotaru, and Motoi finished eating their food. Once the meals were finished, the group all remained seating at the table.

"So, Yugito, what about you then?" Naruto asked.

Her eyebrow raised: "What about me?"

"Well, you said you didn't know that about how Bee wanted to actually perform his songs." Naruto said, shrugging his shoulders: "So, what's something about you we don't know?"

"Hmm." Yugito crossed her arms in response: "Well, I told you all about liking cooking. I wouldn't mind one day being able to open a restaurant when I finally retire from being a shinobi."

"I'm sure it would do very well." Gaara noted.

"Hope so." Yugito said, chuckling slightly.

"What would you call it?" Utakata asked.

"'Cat's Seaside'. It would naturally be a seafood place." Yugito answered, smiling. "Would catch everything myself. I'd go out on a nice boat I owned and would simply fish during my free time and relax."

"A student of mine would probably be interested in working with you." Han spoke-up with a chuckle: "He's the son of a fisherman and he fishes as a hobby."

"Hmm. Would like to meet him, then." Yugito said with a shrug. Her eyes then narrowed on the Iwa jōnin: "Do you fish as well, then?"

"Occasionally, but more out of a necessity when on a mission." Han answered.

"Well, Mister Five, what is your drive? What's your passion that keeps you alive?" Bee asked.

"Drawing." Han said.

"Really?" Yagura asked, turning towards him. "What's your specialty?"

"Illustrations for the most part, although I rather enjoy any types of drawings." Han answered, a smile developing on his face.

"He's damn good." Rōshi stated, patting the Gobi jinchūriki's shoulder: "He's the illustrator for my book series, after all!"

"Ah! Tengoku no Sato!" Yugito's eyes lit-up in recollection as a grin developed on her face: "I'm a big fan of the series!"

"Oh?" Rōshi turned to face her, a smile on his face: "Which is your favorite?"

"The third. 'The Sword of Tempests'." Yugito said, her grin widening: "Easily the most satisfying and suspenseful. And the war that followed the wedding…" She shook her head for a moment, a chuckle escaping her lips: "How the hell do you think of your plot twists?"

"Well, I got an imaginative mind, I guess. The third one was a special book for me. Glad you like it. And the penultimate one is going to be released real soon!" Rōshi said with a smile before he turned his head to face Utakata: "But enough about me. What about you, Utakata-san?"

"Are we all just really going around a circle now talking about interests?" Utakata asked, shaking his head: "This feels almost like an academy class."

"Well, we've already been living together for five days now." Fū said with a smile: "Come on; we're all opening and shit! You can't just leave us hanging!"

"Come on, Utakata-sensei!" Hotaru suggested, bumping his shoulder: "Tell them about yourself!"

Utakata was quiet for a moment as he closed his eyes in thought.

"Well, I like to travel. A lot. I enjoy seeing the world." He said.

"As do I." Hotaru nodded her head, a sad smile developing on her lips: "I never got to leave the area around Tsuchigumo Village until I began to follow Utakata-sensei. Being able to see so many different cities and places and cultures… it's really beautiful."

"I already knew about your travels." Fū replied, frowning/ "Anything else other than traveling?"

"Um… I like dancing." Hotaru admitted, blushing slightly. "Utakata-sensei is a good dance partner as well, or good for making music to dance to."

Utakata chuckled in response: "I suppose dancing is fun-"

"Now hold on a sec; was that true? Mister Six, you're a musician too?" Killer Bee asked. Utakata nodded his head. "Why am I just learning about this?"

Utakata's eyes widened at Bee's serious tone-of-voice, as well as the absence of his usual rhymes. The Rokubi jinchūriki swallowed slightly, feeling uneasy, as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a bamboo flute.

"I don't think I'm particularly good, but I do know how to play the flute." He said.

"You do?" Naruto grinned in response: "I gotta introduce you to Tayuya-nee! She's an amazing flute player!"

Before Utakata could respond, Bee walked over to him. The Rokubi and Hachibi jinchūriki locked eyes for a moment, simply staring at one another. Bee remained with a neutral expression on his face while Utakata felt his breathing starting to slow down.

A second passed by before a wide grin developed on Bee's face as he held out his fist to Utakata: "From one musician to another, we need to rock out, brother."

Utakata blinked for a second. His breathing slowly returned to normal and his posture calmed down as he wordlessly returned Bee's fist bump.

"So, what about you, Kazekage-sama?" Han asked, turning his attention to the red-head.

"Please, you all do not need to call me that title. 'Gaara' will suffice." Gaara answered, crossing his arms. A frown then developed on his face: "As for a 'passion'… I'm not quite certain." His frown deepened: "I do not really have time for any hobbies. Being the Kazekage takes up most of my time."

Yagura nodded his head sympathetically. No one appeared to notice, however.

"Ah come on. That's just an excuse." Fū said, rolling her eyes. "Come on, you got to have something you like doing!"

"I… suppose I am fond of growing cacti." Gaara answered.

"Gardening, huh?" Fū nodded her head in approval: "I do that too! Do you do anything else?"

"Not particularly." Gaara shook his head. "Again, I do not have much time for 'hobbies'."

Fū shook her head: "Okay, we need to have someone in Sunagakure attending to you. Help you find something to do with your time."

Gaara frowned once again: "I don't think that's necessary-"

"Speaking of gardening, do you still garden, Naruto?" Han asked.

"I do! I got a good garden in the Uzumaki Clan Compound!" Naruto stated. A smirk developed on his face: "Other than that, though, I mostly just like trying different flavors of ramen. Pulling pranks on people. And working on new jutsu, specifically fūinjutsu."

"Oh wow, an Uzumaki interested in fūinjutsu." Rōshi shook his head, chuckling: "What a surprise there."

"Hey, don't mock me for it." Naruto rolled his eyes: "I really like it, y'know! It also helps me feel me more connected to my clan's history."

"Hey, makes sense. Nothing wrong with that." Yugito admitted, shrugging her shoulders. She then turned to the final jinchūriki in the room: "And how about you, Kamui-san?"

Yagura frowned in response: "I do not have any. I devote myself to my missions and training."

"Okay, there's no way." Fū replied, rolling her eyes: "Come on, you got to have something you like doing in your spare time!"

"I don't." Yagura shook his head. A sigh escaped his lips as he looked downward: "I haven't enjoyed much of anything after the Civil War."

All the eyes on the Sanbi jinchūriki softened in response.

'Yagura…' Naruto frowned, staring at the man once again.

"… I didn't mean to press it like that." Fū spoke-up, shaking her head. "I'm sorry, Kamui-san."

"It's fine." Yagura replied.

Things were quiet in the kitchen once more. All eyes were on Yagura, who was looking downward, away from one another.

A few more seconds passed. Yugito was about to stand-up and take the dishes to start washing them when Yagura finally spoke-up

"I suppose, though, I do have one thing I still like doing." He admitted, looking upward: "I enjoy studying history and religion."

The silence and tension in the room quickly evaporated once again.

"What kind of history?" Rōshi asked.

"The era I am most fond of is the beginning of the Warring States Period." Yagura answered. "I'm also fond of studying any history of the lands outside of the Elemental Nations."

Conversation lightened once again as the jinchūriki all began to chat amongst one another freely, moving from topic to topic as the group of nine began to truly get to know each other.

---

"You're going out again?" Hidan asked. "And you're going to go all the way to fucking Konoha? Do you even have time for that shit?"

"I'll be back in time. I won't even be gone for long." Kabuto said as he made a hand sign, channeling chakra into his body: "Swift Release is proving to be a rather convenient kekkei genkai. I should cut the travel time to Konoha in half, potentially even more"

"Yeah, yeah." Hidan rolled his eyes. "If you waste all your chakra trying to get Konoha and then die because you got jumped and someone took advantage of your lack of chakra, don't say I didn't warn you."

"Heh." Kabuto chuckled in response: "Well, you have no culpability in my death, then."

The Jashinite snorted for a second before his eyes softened: "What do you have to do in Konoha that's so important, by the way?"

"A couple of things. But the most important thing is to test the range of my Edo Tensei." Kabuto answered. "I need to see exactly how my reach can go. I have some ideas, but I've never confirmed it."

"Couldn't you do that shit here?" Hidan asked.

"Suppose so, but I have something I'd like to do there." Kabuto said with a smirk.

"… You're still gonna be a fucking tease and not tell me, huh?" Hidan grumbled as he turned around. "Fine. It's probably more grave robbing bullshit anyway. Whatever. Just get back when you get done with your bullshit. I don't give a fuck."

With those words, Hidan walked back into the cave where he and Kabuto were camped out in.

Kabuto proceeded to finish a series of hand signs before he got into position to run: "Swift Release: Acceleration!"

Kabuto disappeared as he moved rapidly through the forests and mountain ranges of Kaminari no Kuni, moving so fast that not even any of the animals could feel his presence.

After thirty minutes of travel, Kabuto finally stopped his rush forward. The silver-haired shinobi began to breathe rather heavily and started to sweat heavily as he struggled to remain on his feet. He looked around, noting a distinct river in the area.

Within thirty minutes, he had arrived at the Kaminari no Kuni-Shimo no Kuni border.

"Yup… Swift Release is… very useful… This would… have normally been… almost a day's walk alone…" Kabuto noted between his heavy breathing. 'Although Hidan is right. This exhausted almost my entire chakra supply. I'll have to be careful if I intend on using Swift Release as a form of transportation. Better space out my travels, otherwise I really could get killed of easily.'

Finding the strength, Kabuto began to walk into a forest, trying to find somewhere peaceful that he could rest at and recover his chakra. Despite his physical and chakra exhaustion, however, an excited grin was developing on his face.

'I'll start the experiments soon about how far away I can be from my Edo Tensei summons to best maximize my usefulness in the invasion. But more importantly, I'll be able to get some rather useful information from Konoha.' He noted. Hidan's final words repeated in his head for a moment, which caused him to chuckle again: 'Grave robbing bullshit… you're right to an extent, Hidan. But not quite.' His eyes narrowed as his hands tightened into fists: 'It's about time I finally did my investigation and figure out exactly who you are, Tobi.'

---

Author's Note: Hey everyone, chapter 113 is posted!

I have things I feel like I should say about this chapter, but tbh, I'm just mentally exhausted. Work is draining hardcore at the moment, so I'm just going to sleep and I promise to be more talkative in the next chapter's author's note.

114 will hopefully be soon as well, so I'll be excited to post it and see what you all think. Until then :)