Chapter 100: Letting Go! The Dust Settles


    In conclusion, what I had originally thought of as little more than a strange footnote that the Second Hokage had recorded in his notes regarding the use of Kuchiyose: Edo Tensei. In fact, it proved to be severely understated. Still, I wonder why he didnt just outright state how a subject brought back to confront a target that they had negative feelings toward may lose their very soul and be a demon if the strictest controls were not used and maintained. But it does exin why he was insistent that friends or loved ones be used against a target, despite being aware of the risk that it could result in a subject being lost as it transcended whatever worldly concerns it had that originally allowed it to be called back. I suppose being the pragmatic man that the Second Hokage was known to be, he felt Edo Tensei was too powerful a jutsu to simply discard when used as a psychological weapon, particrly when the worst that could happen is losing a subject to it ascending. In that regard, it is possible that he kept his notes vague as a type of security measure against those who would misuse his technique. Hoping theyd end up destroying themselves by bringing back a subject that they would ultimately lose control of, as it isnt too hard to imagine that had Hayate not been dealt with by Naruto, chances are hed eventually decide to pay me a visit as well.


    Kabuto closed his notebook, as he finished recording his thoughts in regards to the memories that he had received from the Shadow Clone that he had used as a backup to monitor the events he had set in motion. He was d that he had taken the precaution, since he would have been left in the dark once Hayate had broken free of his control. He stood from the desk, and turning away began to move towards a longrge table at whose center, a ss covered object resided, along with a multitude of shogi boards which covered the rest of the open space. Although currently only one side of the boards had any game pieces on them. Except for the two at the center of table which sat before the ss covering and which had been turned to face each other with the sides containing the majority of the game pieces being furthest from each other. While he studied the two boards, he imagined that to a professional shogi yer it would look like someone had thrown a bunch of game pieces from multiple boards into a big pile, and then haphazardly ced them on the board however they pleased, sometimes with several pieces stacked on top of each other for no rhythm or reason. Yet for Kabuto, the boards were how he kept the various organizations and people of worth straight within his mind, particrly the schemes he had at various stages for or against them. With each piece representing a particr individual associated with the overall king that each board held. As such, some board had a multitude of pieces, while others only had a handful. Furthermore, some of the boards held more of a certain piece then would be allowed in an actual game. In order to identify who each piece was meant to represent, outside of the kanji which called out what rank the wooden piece was, he had added another which was a code word for who the person was. As while the hiddenb he was operating out of had been set up by him, with funds Orochimaru had given him for just such a purpose, he wouldnt want the information the boards contained to fall into just anyones hands.


    He frowned as he looked at the current boards, where one was filled with pawns outside of the king, that he marked with the word I. While the other board, whose king he had codenamed Fool, was bereft of any. Something, which he used to consider a weakness, especially since a part of how he had determined the rank of what each individual would hold on the board was for how much he imagined the Fool cared for them. Which, automatically guaranteed theck of pawns on the board, something his gaze highlighted for himself as it swept over a knight with the codename Ghoul that had started out as a pawn on his board before being captured, and now was tied to several powerful pieces on the Fools, including another of his former pawns, First. He focused on where the two boards touched, and was where he had ced a few pieces from each although they remained on their respective boards for the moment. From his, he had ced a single pawn with the word lover written on it, which stood opposite of several pieces from the Fools. Looking at the Fools side, he recognized that with what he had learned from the scheme the current arrangement was meant to represent that he would need to add a few more pieces, since it had proven that at the very least those who shared a roof with the Fool were prone to be powerful pieces on his board. A lesson that he had learned years ago, although the woman that taught to him hadnt been sharing a roof with him at the time. His gaze switched to the Gold General that represented her on the Fools board, which he had named Hag. For it had been her turn around which had served as the inspiration for histest actions, to see if what had transpired was tied solely to the Fools resemnce to her dead brother, or if it was something tied more directly to him.


    Which brought his focus back towards the edge of the board, where directly opposite from his pawn was a rook that had the word Neko on it. He had chosen the rook to represent the woman as while a powerful piece in its own right, it tended to be single minded in its focus as it could only move in a straight line. Reaching toward the two pieces, he first picked up his pawn from the board, before then flipping over the rook indicating it had been promoted, which gave it the means to move both as a rook, and a king. It also took on the rank of dragon.


    Kabuto felt suddenly tired, and closed his eyes as he tried to calcte what the ramifications would be, only to be greeted by the sight of Yuugao throwing herself before Naruto as Hayate had moved to cut him down, which had been one of thest few images he had seen before losing control. To his surprise, he was filled with a sudden surge of anger which caused him to crush the piece in his hand, before then mming his fist on the table. Luckily, it proved to be able to withstand the blow, although he had heard wood splintering indicating it probably wouldnt take another. He stepped back from the table for a moment, afraid another surge of emotion would cause him to break the tablepletely, and while he could recreate the boards from memory, he feared damaging the item beneath the ss case. He frowned as in his concern for the item, he noticed the shock of the blow had disturbed it enough so that the light shining on it was no longer making whatid behind it impossible to see. A pair of broken, and blood sttered sses.


    He turned away quickly, and closed his eyes, but found no respite as he again saw Yuugao trying to protect Naruto. But this time as he relived Hayates charge towards her, the purple haired Anbu Captain seemed to slowly morph until she resembled his adoptive mother Non Yakushi. He tried to stop his charge but had no control, so hoped that much as it had yed out in reality just before he lost the ability to view the events through Hayates perspective, that the Uzumaki would protect her. But instead, he stood by and did nothing as she was cut down. Yet, rather than a de as Hayate had been wielding, it was his own chakra incased hand that sliced open her chest. Then the tunnels of Ruin were reced by the rocky ins of the Land of Earth as he stood alone and stared down at his mother, who hadnt even recognized her son had been the one to kill her.


    He was d he took the precaution of stepping away from the table, as the desire to smash everything within reach became almost too much to bear as he was filled with an intense fury. Which he directed towards Danzou, and the shinobi world as a whole. But he forced it back down so he could try to think rationally again and began to wonder if the anger was perhaps a side effect remaining from the link that he had formed with Hayate in order to witness events through his eyes, as while the anger was always a part of him, he didnt typically have such outbursts. He figured it was possible, but ultimately dismissed it as some sort of side effect, as he suspected what truly had set him off was the sense of betrayal Hayate had experienced, as just before the link had been cut the former Leaf jounin had been positive Naruto, and Yuugao had be lovers. Which, he imagined having experienced that feeling through Hayate was what had caused his own mind to link what happened in Ruin to how Danzou had betrayed both Non and him, for the crime of being too good at the very task he had set them out to do.


    Finding his center, Kabuto further analyzed what had prompted his outburst being due to how if Hayate was right, then he had vastly underestimated just how poorly his scheme had gone. As while, it had proven the idea that the bonds Naruto had formed with the women living in the Hidden Eddy Inn were formidable. If he had taken them all as lovers, then the negative effects could cause his next target to spite him, despite the pawn he had recently acquired being meant to secure her allegiance in helping him get what he needed from the Uzumaki. Not just because of her own feelings for him, but for the feelings that he imagined had to extend to the other women in his lifer simr to how pulling on one strand of a web sent vibrations all throughout it. Granted, that had been a risk from the get go since they had been friends even before they both had begun living under the same roof. But he figured the hook he had nned to use would be too powerful a temptation to resist.


    Now, he wasnt nearly as certain as although he knew it had been the least likely of ways for the events to y out, there had still been a small hope that Yuugao would be aware of Narutos ability to raise the dead, and would enlist his aid to resurrect her lost love. Naturally, he hadnt put much stock in it although he taken precautions so hed be able use Hayate as a conduit to siphon Narutos chakra off for his own needs. Just in case, but since he imagined that if Naruto was in the business of raising the dead, then he was certain that Iruka and Jiraiya would have been first in line. Which, was why he had first attributed Haku and Kins return to thend of the living as being due to the actions of the beast that he had contained. As such, he had tried to steal the Bijuu with his next attempt only for that to also fail, but as he had gleamed the knowledge of how it had been done from Mito as she applied the technique to herself, he wasnt so sure if would work if Naruto wasnt a part of the equation. Still, as his third attempt when he had implicated Gaara in the murder of Joseki had literally blown up in his face, when the Land of Snow Chakra Suppression device he had modified to store chakra hadnt been able to contain all the chakra the Bijuu within Naruto had supplied it with. Yet, as the device overloading, and releasing much of the charge that it had held had resulted in Karuras resurrection. The fact that it hadnt also brought back the sacrifice he had used confirmed that it wasnt entirely the Bijuus doing. Which was when he decided to enact his next n, in the hopes that hed be able to get his hands on a subject to study, since he had doubted anyone would care what happened to a living head of hair riding a corpse. Sadly, things didnt exactly go as nned, although he did end up getting his hands on a subject. Sadly, the chakra of the ck Kyuubi that Sora contained proved to be poisonous to most living cells, much as Bijuu chakra was supposed to be. Which considering how the technique Kazuma used to bring the ck version of the nine-tailed fox into existence was like taking a sapling of a tree to effectively clone it meant it was living representation of what the fox had been before being sealed in Naruto.


    Kabuto paused suddenly, as something urred to him which had long nagged at him ever since the events in the Land of Vegetables. Namely, the sudden appearance of Kushina Uzumaki. Having bugged Soras base when he had freed Kazuma, and as a result had heard Fuens end, he knew it wasnt as Sora had assumed which was that the red-headed Uzumaki had killed her in an effort to save her son. A belief that although he had stated to Sora that wasnt what happened, he had never bothered to set the record straight that in actuality, it had been the real Fuen that had confronted Naruto and Fuka, only to find herself taken over by the female Uzumaki. Mainly, as he didnt want Sora to have even an inclining of why he had been so interested in his chakra, before sending him to spy on Sasuke. Still, while Kushinas resurrection had seemed to be a vition of Narutos apparent self-imposed rule against bringing back the dead, as the blond had sounded unconscious or not entirely lucid at the time, he had written it off as some sort of fluke with perhaps his mother being the one who had done it. Still, the fact that it was even able to be done must have meant Kabuto thought trailed off as the implication hit him with the force of a ton of bricks falling on him.


    Kabuto was about to turn to record his thoughts in his journal, but stopped the impulse as he wasnt keeping any notes on this particr matter. As even though theb was secret, although Sora had been there a few times although he had never been allowed in directly, since when he had asked to meet in order to run a particr experiment, Kabuto would use a summoning circle that he nted in a different area to call the pseudo-jinchuriki to hisb. Still, even though he was confident he was the only one to know its location, he didnt want to take any chances. As getting his hands-on Naruto, or his chakra was the ultimate goal he had set for himself with his recent actions against the blond Uzumaki. He smirked, as he recalled how when he had first summoned Mito, she had stated his ambition seemedcking, almost like he had been simply going through the motions, and in truth she had been right, since for the most part all he had been doing was keeping the wind of change Orochimaru had set in motion with his attack on the Leaf vige going. However, he wondered if she would say that about him now.


    Yet, he let the sense of whimsy fade as he began to postte on what Kushina spirit having resided within her son actually meant. He felt foolish since it never urred to him, that if Naruto had been able to set his mothers spirit free in another body, it meant he could potentially do the same for another. Say a certain Bijuu which had resided within him. He reasoned, that if Naruto and his Bijuu hade to some sort of ords, it would undoubtedly desire freedom, an act which would normally kill him. However, if Kushinas spirit had somehow been separated from her body, and had resided in Naruto since her physical death, she would have needed some means of sustaining her existence ording to the Three Pir Principle, much as Fuka had needed to continue to consume chakra to sustain hers. He moved back to his desk, and opening a drawer pulled out a log book he kept on events which happened in the various viges. Looking through the section rted to Konoha, although not sure what he was looking for, he continued to ponder, When Naruto was on his little training trip, the fox nearly broke free, and almost killed Jiraiya, who just managed to contain it, although not without sustaining serious injury. So, by that point, they were still enemies apparently. However, when I crossed paths with him in Wave, the Bijuu took over and fought Haku and surrendered his body withoutint. He frowned as he recalled details of both events, and remembered how it sounded like a red glowing female had been the form it had taken in Wave while when it had fought Jiraiya, it had been more beast like. Thinking aloud he said, So, somewhere between these two events they apparently became allies, or at least agreed to work together. He looked up from the book for a moment as he amended, Unless, the Bijuu that faced Haku was Kushina. He knew the idea of it was crazy at first nce, since the rogue Sky-nin Shinnos work when creating the being Ido from the Karuma n heir had showed that two entities couldnt exist in a simr n without massively affecting one another. Hence why Bijuu were sealed in a separate dimension within their hosts, and even then, some traits carried over. Something, he imagined neither Kushina, nor the Bijuu would agree to with both spirits existing in the same body. Yet it would almost have been necessary in order for Kushina to maintain her existence for sixteen or so years. He amended his thought as he quickly could think of several in which it was possible, such as her being sealed in the same pocket dimension as the Bijuu, but syphoning some of the purified chakra escaping through it into her son. Still, while if that had been the case, he could understand why Naruto wouldnt have viewed his having brought her back as breaking his taboo, since she hadnt died but effectively lived on within him. Still, he reckoned such a method wouldnt have allowed her to take direct control of her son, since that would have quickly drained a disembodied soul of its energy. Therefore, the Bijuu body had to have been vacated, he thought with a surge of triumph as he found what he had been looking for.


    Moving back to the table, he looked over the board where the King was nicknamed the Fool, and found the piece he sought. Which was ranked as a knight since the woman it represented tended to move rather uniquely particrly for a business owner. Which, as the knight was the only piece capable of leaping over another piece, he felt represented her well as she seemed to be a driving force for the Fools seeming desire to bring the various viges together, and was able to avoid opposition most shinobi would face. But, if he was right then he had vastly underestimated her worth as the chakra wave that had happened shortly before Naruto had left for Wave had been meant to hide how a supposedly brain-dead woman awakening was just one among the other numerous miracles that had happened, when in actuality what had awakened that day had been the Bijuu Naruto carried. While Kushina Uzumaki must have taken possession of its original form. He felt almost giddy at the prospects this raised for thepletion of his goal since with Kushina also receiving her own body now, he imagined that she had also been changed by her time as a Bijuu.


    Still, his glee was short lived, as he began to think the matter over rationally. He began to break out in a cold-sweat as the thought urred to him, that if Naruto was indeed sleeping with the women who lived under the same roof as him in the Hidden Eddy Inn, then as that building was owned by the Great Tree Shipping Company, whose owner he now suspected may be a freed Nine Tailed Fox, then in all likelihood he had angered a being who for many thousands of years was considered an ill omen for all of humanity when it turned up. He could only imagine how much worse it would be for him, since as the events in Ruin had demonstrated, the Uzumaki had effectively not only changed Yuugao from the revenged obsessed women he had assumed her to be, but had effectively captured her heart as well. If that was the case for the Bijuu as well, then should it get ahold of him, he was sure his suffering would be as horrible as it was short, and if it had inherited Narutos ability to raise the dead, then he imagined he could be in for a very bad time indeed. Particrly, as it urred to him that the other mysterious women who worked for itspany, may very well be the missing Bijuu who had been extracted from the statue the Descendants of the Moon had recently recovered.


    However, Kabuto steeled his resolve, since he imagined earning the ire of the Nine-tailed fox had always been a possibility, and while it was toote to stop being the monster that he had be. If he was sessful in his goals, then at the very least he could erase the mistake that had set him on that path. But, before moving forward, he had to contemte on the best method how, which suited him fine as he hoped the old saying that time healed all wounds was true, and so nned to allow quite a bit to pass before enacting any other ns, at least in regards to the Uzumaki. Instead, he felt it may be time to shift his focus to a few of the other yers for a while, since in truth, should he ultimately achieve the desire that had arisen within him, he believed it would be best if it happened in a world that the Fool was striving for.


    Yet, before he got too carried away, he put the piece he would rename Fox going forward down on the Fools board, and pushed the dragon ranked Neko back so that it resided with the other pieces he had marked as of having some importance. Although, he realized he would have to add quite a few more, as he knew the Fool wouldnt consider any of its lovers as being unimportant. He also realized, hed have to look more closely into the assets of the Great Tree Shipping Company, and imagined quite a few pieces he hadnt even considered would be added, primarily from outside Konoha. Once, they were properly grouped, he pulled the two boards apart enough to add a new one between them. He frowned as he tried to open a drawer within the table, and found it wouldnt pull out smoothly. Still, as with most things it eventually did what he wanted when enough force was applied.


    He pulled out the new board and set it on the table, before reaching into a small box within the drawer until he found a new king piece. He ced it in the center on the edge furthest from him, before taking a piece from the Fools board. Although, the piece was a golden general, he ced it on the king as it had the word One written on it, to represent the person it had been. nning to add the name to the new kingter, for now hed let the general represent it. He then pulled a pawn from the same box, before forcing the drawer closed and stared at it as he tried toe up name that would represent it. His mind offered up cyclops, which he quickly rejected since that was a name he already had settled on for a piece on the Fools board, and while several pieces with the same name could be found on multiple boards, it was simply because depending on the yer the same people could appear in various games, although what rank they were represented as tended to vary, Finally, he settled on the name Trash, since it seemed the king One was willing to throw him away as such, which didnt much matter to Kabuto, but he assumed sooner orter such a mindset would lead to a confrontation between the king he had just yed with, and the one who had made a devils bargain with him to set the events of that game in motion.


    *******


    Gaara was being led through Konoha by several Anbu who had met his party and him at the gate, although to his surprise, it didnt appear to be towards the Torture and Interrogation Department as he had imagined. Yet, despite the upscale part of the vige not matching where he had expected to be meeting his former sensei, he had little trouble picking out their destination as outside of arge several story building, named the Majestic Leaf Hotel, which he had frequented several times since bing Kazekage, a small crowd of protestors had gathered on either side of the entrance. He assumed that they would be blocking it, if not for several genin teams of Leaf-nin preventing them from doing so. Yet, what the crowdcked in size it made up for in vindictiveness as they hurled insults at him and his party ranging from calling them murders to betrayers. An insult which caused him to internally flinch, although he masked it for the most part although it did cause him to turn to see who had hurled it. He locked gazes with a heavy-set woman, with short dark hair, and a sleeveless purple blouse which was held closed by several golden sps, while its open neck was low enough that it exposed a fair amount of cleavage. Seeing she had captured the Kazekages attention, she shouted, Whats the matter? Did I strike a nerve? Did your murdering sensei at least have the decency to stab Hayate Gekko in the front when he killed him?


    Gaara turned away not willing to give her any more cause to believe she had bothered him, although it seemed the crowd had sensed blood in the water due to his giving them even the slightest sign their words had gotten to him as their insults increased in pitch and fervor. Fortunately, they were drowned out for the most part as the automated doors closed behind his party. He didnt smile although his mood improved as Sari said, Who did that cow think she is?


    The wife of the Akimichi n head, unless Ive missed my guess, Sunas current Head Anbu Foo stated. The small elderly man with short spikey grey hair and bushy mustache, and who was dressed in a modified Anbu armor which was ck, and had several metal tes rather the more earthen tone k jackets favored by Sunas current generation, scoffed softly as he added, Shes still no doubt sore that her sister abandoned this vige in order to be a member of the Wind Daimyos royal guard.


    It doesnt matter, Gaara said dispassionately while also indicating that he was telling his party to drop it.


    With the Anbu that had escorted them from the gate remaining by the entrance, a young purple haired woman wearing the uniform of the hotels management approached, and bowed politely before them. Wee back, Lord Kazekage, the woman whose nametag read Ami said professionally, Although, I wish it was under better circumstances. Will you be staying long? Should we get your usual room ready?


    No, Gaara replied curtly, but politely. He could tell the woman was worried that they had arranged for other amodation so added, Our business will not be keeping us in the vige for more than a few hours.


    I understand, she replied as she moved to the side, Please ring the front desk if you need anything.


    Gaara nodded before starting for the elevator as his group fell in behind him. A short elevator rideter, he stepped through to find another pair of Leaf Anbu nking the doors leading from it. Although there were several rooms on the floor, again he had no trouble recognizing his destination as there was a single Anbu wearing the traditional Suna variation of the uniform. When they were just about half way to her position, she moved to meet them making it several steps before she dropped to a knee, as she said sounding a little surprised by their arrival, Lord Kazekage, Master Foo, I didn


    She was silenced by a powerfully delivered backhand from Foo who had stepped before the Kazekage. Kashike didntin, as she simplypsed into silence as Foo said disapprovingly, Is that all you have to say for yourself, when you have failed in your duty so spectacrly?


    Kashike didnt respond, so he asked harshly, I have no excuses to offer. I was taken unawares, and my charge was snatched away.


    Get out of my sight, Foo said starkly, Return to Suna, and contemte on just how badly you have failed, and what it has cost the vige.


    Kashike stood stiffly, and bowed before standing to the side to allow them to pass although as they did so, he noticed Foo did briefly ce a hand against his subordinates arm in a reassuring gesture. Gaara entered the rather luxurious room while indicating the rest of his party should wait outside, before closing the door behind him. He found his teacher looking out the window, no doubt watching the people protesting him, which as he turned from he said jovially, I dont know about you, but I think that as far as prisons go, the Leaf could do much worse.


    Gaara winced internally at the jest, but rather thanmenting said, Im d to see you are being treated well.


    Although, aware his former student, and current leader had never been the mostmunicative of people. Baki frowned at Gaaras almost distant tone, beforementing, Im surprised to see you to be honest. It has only been about a day and half, even moving at full speed I didnt think a Suna delegation would arrive for at least another day or two. Let alone to find you among them.


    I was in the Land of River capital when the messenger hawk found me, so came straight here, Gaara replied before asking. Is it true that you murdered Hayate Gekko?


    It is, Baki answered without any show of remorse, I was speaking with Kabuto in regards to the uing Invasion, and he was eavesdropping. I killed him to maintain the operations secrecy.


    I understand, Gaara said with a nod of eptance at the exnation, Based on what the message I received said, it sounds like you and Hokage have already worked out most of the details, as you intend to plead not guilty, and the trail location is being set in the Land of Grass provided they agree to it.


    Baki nodded while jokingly saying, While I believe the Hokage would conduct a fair trial, as you might guess from the people out front, finding unbiased jurors might be rather hard toe by. This way I figure if worsees to worse, I can just bribe the Grass-nin to


    I want you to change your plea to guilty, Gaara interrupted.


    Caught off guard, Baki said, Sir, Im not sure why I would do that. My actions were done for the sake of our vige. Hell, I could tell that even the Hokage understood the reasons for them even if she couldnte out and admit as much. If there was anything that they could throw at me, it was that I should probably havee forth and admitted the truth while our viges were negotiating the peace, especially in light of how things went down in Ruin, but as the negotiations between our viges were so touch and go in the aftermath of the invasion, it didnt feel wise to give the Leaf any additional leverage over us.


    I know, Gaara replied, I also understand it isnt fair of me to ask this of you. But I feel I must, as there is a mission that I want you to undertake.


    Baki frowned for a moment obviously confused about how he could conduct a mission from a prison cell, but nevertheless his features grew stern as he stood ramrod straight to state, As youmand. How can I best serve the vige?


    Gaara felt a sense of pride in the man, who was properly demonstrating how a shinobi should be willing to sacrifice for the greater good. He allowed a small glimpse of that pride to appear, before his face returned to its more natural stoess. Thank you. I promise your sacrifice for Sunas wellbeing will in time be made public. Receiving a curt nod, he continued, I have recently learned the location of a powerful artifact called The Box of Ultimate Bliss. Legend says that it is capable of granting any who open it any wish of their choosing, although my source also says this isnt the case. Rather, it houses a creature called Satori. I hope to capture this creature, as a recement for the One Tails. Although, Baki didnt say anything, Gaara could tell that his former teacher had some reservations about his mission, something he had also noticed when he had assigned him the one to the Land of Ruins. However, he simply continued with his exnation, As it turns out, Hozuki Castle was originally constructed to house the box, and it is believed the warden is the guardian of it. Rumors are also circting that elements within Grass are trying to open it.


    Baki inclined his head in understanding, while stating, I get it. You figure that if I change my plea to guilty, youll be able to negotiate that my sentence be served out in Hozuki Prison, where Im to verify if the box is indeed there, and if so, piggyback on these rogue elements within Grass efforts to determine the means of opening it. At which point, Im assuming well step in to relieve them of the box


    Gaara nodded in agreement with Bakis assessment of his missions objectives. He could tell his former sensei still had some misgiving so stated, Speak your mind Baki.


    The older man took a moment to collect his thoughts, before finally asking, Sir, between this, and the mission you sent me on to Ruin I have to ask; do you no longer believe in the alliance. While, I can ept my mission to Ruin was about getting our hands on a supply of weapons which may help give us a leg up against the Darkness Vige. This feels like a step towards arming ourselves for an uing war, not defending ourselves from a hostile force that thanks to the Alliance, we already massively outnumber. I mean, not even taking into ount how Grass would respond should we steal such a powerful artifact from them if this creature can rival a Bijuu. I also cant imagine Konoha, Kumo, or Ame would be particrly happy about it either.


    I understand your hesitance, Gaara said tactfully, However, after what happened in Ame, I fear I alone will not be enough to protect Suna from the likes of Sasuke. I hate to admit it, but since losing the One Tails, I have been diminished significantly. Moreover, while I have not lost faith in the Alliance, I have lost faith in our ability to be taken seriously as equal partners. Should wee to relypletely on the Alliance in general, and Konoha in particr, I fear it would only be a matter of time before we found ourselves once more in a situation where we would need to either strike out on our own, orepletely under their control as we lose the means to be taken seriously. While Im confident that the current administration harbors no such intentions, sadly thosee and go. I would rather not wait until such a time as we feel we can onlysh out, to make it known of our intention to maintain our independence.


    Gaara would admit to feeling a little unclean, as he saw that the reasoning he provided while true enough was tainted more to have sessfully stirred up whatever lingering resentment or mistrust Baki may have harbored towards Konoha. As such, he could tell his former sensei was more on board with the mission, as he stated, I will not let you down Lord Kazekage.


    I know, Gaara replied with assurance, You are an example for which every shinobi should strive to be. I n to meet with the Hokage now, and I will inform her of your decision. Receiving a nod in reply, Gaara turned away confident he was taking a step in the right direction to ensure his voice wouldnt be drowned out by a chorus of women bound to the Naruto. That it also served to demonstrate to said Uzumaki how those iming to supposedly have a greater purpose themselves should act, made it all the better.


    *******


    Lee felt a sense of exhration as he stood at the center of the arena where the demon that had attacked the city had met its end. Standing opposite from him was the man who although hadnt in it, most of the citys inhabitants were calling him a hero as he had pinned it down long enough so that the local mages and priests could banish it. A title that they had heaped upon him as well, along with the Anbu Kashike and Yuugao, who Naruto had returned to Konoha immediately following the battle. But Lee felt it was a mere formality when used in association with him or the Anbu, as the people of the Land of Ruin didnt seem to attach the same reverence that they did when addressing the Uzumaki. Which he associated to the fact that unlike when Naruto had faced the demon at the arena, when he had done it there hadnt been an audience. Lee felt this was the case, primarily as the only other shinobi that the people of Ruin, or more urately its adventurers, seemed to regard with the same measure of respect for his talents was his sensei Maito Gai, although admittedly they still kept their distance from him. Which he guessed was due to how the Capital Guild members had experienced Gais talent first hand.


    An event that the Guild Master Pluton had used towards the tail end of the victory speech he had given at the banquet held the night after the battle to illuminate how Ruin needed to reform its own practices for raising up Adventurers by creating an academy simr to how the shinobi trained their up-anding genin. Rather surprisingly, it was the adventurers themselves who seemed most against the idea, as they had shouted their disagreements with most saying it spit in the face of what an Adventurer was. Others voiced the opinion that the reason the Guild wanted to establish an academy was to squash the independent spirit that was at the core of each Adventurer in order to forge a more cohesive militaristic force.


    Pluton hadnt exactly denied it as a reason, but rather than substantiating it he had instead pointed out how Gai had effectively single-handedly crushed the guild, and how the only reason most of them were still alive was because he had held back. At which point, he then drew the debate back to the mater of cohesion as he stated that the reason Gai had triumphed was because although they had him surrounded, when they had moved in to attack, they had done a more effective job of getting in each others way then in confronting their opponent. Which was due to how despite being used to working in parties of five to seven members. As soon as more than one party was forced to work together, it tended to end in disaster since for one they tended topete against each other, but also because the parties tended tock the skills to assist one another in the same way they were able to within one. Pluton then made it more personal as he made a point that many of the local Adventurers working out of the Capital were doing so because theycked the skills to challenge the Frontier.


    Which from Lees limited understanding was the majority of the Land of Ruin, as outside of its eastern border, which was rtively safe along with the territory around the capital since most of the dungeons and ruins had already been picked clean. The rest of the country was pretty much unsettled, although there were several frontier towns of varying sizes westward from the capital which were trying to settle thend, and were where many of the countries more impressive adventurers could be found. Mainly as the jobs posted within the frontier towns tended to be more challenging, and thus more lucrative as well.


    Lee had sympathized with the gathered adventurers as he could see it was a bitter truth many of those gathered hade to ept. But Pluton then began offering them excuses that they couldtch onto in order to prevent the me from falling squarely on them. For those who may have lost their nerve to challenge the Frontier, he exined that it was often because they had epted what appeared to be an easy job, such as cleaning out a nest of some low tier creature. But, because they may have had some prior experience with it outside of its normal circumstances, such as facing a solitary creature when it typical attacked in groups. A party they were with may have epted the job, expecting just more of the same even when facing the increased numbers or felt their party would offset the danger, only to find themselvespletely overwhelmed as the creatures were vastly more dangerous in a group since it covered for their weaknesses as opposed to during solo encounters. And as such, more often than not the party would be crushed, with the survivors either quittingpletely or having lost their confidence would limit themselves to jobs they had alreadypleted and so knew what to expect. To these adventurers, Pluton exined that establishing an Academy would allow the guild to teach them such things in advance making them forearmed in terms of what to expect from the various creatures which called the Land of Ruins home, and therefore hopefully prevent parties from experiencing such soul sapping defeats in the future.


    It was an argument, which Lee could tell was taking root in quite a few of those gathered. However, he imagined the idea wouldnt be nearly as effective in the Frontier towns, as those would be popted by Adventurers who had probably ovee such encounters, or had picked themselves up afterwards. He imagined the counterargument such Adventurers could suggest would be that the Parties that were crushed because they were ill prepared to face their early challenges, may indeed survive longer if they were better trained, but were in all likelihood still doomed to fail when they encountered a situation for which they hadnt been prepped for. That it was in fact their early missions where so many parties seeded or failed where they learned the most important skill a party would need, how to confront the unknown and seed.


    An argument which may carry some merit, but Lee imagined it would be one made more out of a desire to protect the more lucrative contracts found in the Frontier from a sudden influx of Adventurers who were more consistently oveing the early hurdles that they faced, then out of any real concern that they had merely pushed their deaths out to ater date. But, while none of the Adventurers located within the Capital Guild Hall had made such an argument. That very fact highlighted an issue Pluton would experience even if he did manage to scrounge up the funding to establish an Academy, namely he doubted hed be able to staff it with worthwhile instructors.


    Particrly as those who would best be suited to teaching at it were likely the men and women currently working on the Frontier, and hade by their skills the hard way. As such, since the Adventurers all seemed to be bereft of amon goal or purpose, he doubted they would want to train those they may one day bepeting against for a job. A fact that Lee suspected probably served as the greatest hurdle to Ruin ever establishing an Academy.


    Although, Lee did believe that if Pluton was serious about starting one, he could recruit some of the more sessful local Adventurers as instructors to help prepare new Parties for the challenges theyd face early on. The members of these new Parties would thus be more likely to make it to the Frontier, and as such, remembering how they were aided early on would in turn perhaps be more willing to pass their gained experience on. However, Lee suspected the reason Pluton was perhaps hesitant to go such a route in establishing an Academy was because it would likely be decades before any real results were achieved, and as such would be a drain on Guild resources with very little to show for it. With theck of a financial incentive probably being the biggest reason Pluton hadnt begun one, despite how passionately he had been arguing for it.


    It was the next argument that Pluton had made, which highlighted why Ruin needed one, but also proved to be why it would be so difficult to get off the ground using the local Adventurers. Namely, most of the Adventurers, outside of the Priests and Mages, were self-taught in terms of their fighting abilities. Therefore, since the majority of them hadnt progressed too far along, and thus had not refined their skills, they would be all but useless in trying to pass such knowledge onto up-anding Adventurers. Or perhaps even worse, would prove to be detrimental to the development of them as they passed along bad habits that they had picked up, which had not been lost as they refined their skills through encountering harder and harder challenges, or died because they hadnt managed to lose them and some enemy took advantage. Naturally if that happened, it could result in even more Adventurers failing early on and exacerbating the issue an Academy was supposed to be correcting.


    It was an issue Pluton knew he needed to correct, and so felt the best way to do so was to show what those who had passed through an Academy system were capable of. Thus, to that end, and likely hoping to impress not so much those he had been excusing for theirck of progress in their chosen field with his arguments, but those up-anding Adventurers who were bound to head to the Frontier in time, he had asked Gai, Do you not agree with me, Master Gai? What was your honest assent of the warriors you faced, and would an Academy not insure more of our Adventurers meet with sess?


    Lee could tell Gai had been caught off guard at suddenly bing the center of attention. But he gave the matter some thought before replying, I suppose that depends on what you mean by sess. Pluton had appeared less then pleased by the answer, fearing Gai would be less than supportive. Yet, in regards to providing an assessment of the adventurers I faced, well as you pointed out it was in a situation that they were not ustomed to fighting in. Theycked cohesion and I was able to take advantage of that. With that said, I doubt many of them would have fared any better in a one-on-one encounter with me. For to be honest in terms of their technique, well Id have to call it sloppy. I saw a lot of wasted movement, and openings in guards which would be easy for a skilled opponent to take advantage of.


    Pluton nodded, even as many of the gathered Adventurers bristled and began to murmur among themselves. Hoping to drive home his point, he asked the jounin, Perhaps youd be willing to show off your skills again. Say, a friendly match in the arena against various challengers.


    Gai seemed to consider it for a moment as he looked about the room taking stock of the gathered adventurers, but replied, I think I will have to pass. If your warriors couldnt stop me when they thought me as an enemy who they were free to use full force against. I do not believe there would be much more for them to learn just by having another fight in a different venue.


    Pluton was obviously disappointed by the reply, but not one to give up said, Then perhaps youd be willing to demonstrate a battle between a couple of shinobi.


    Lee had perked up at the idea, particrly as he noticed Gai had as well. Now that is an idea that has some merit, Gai stated as he rose from the table he sat at alone, outside of Kakashi, who was engrossed in his book, which perhaps was not too surprising since most of the gathered Adventurers were giving him a wide berth. Lee felt a sense of excitement as despite the disagreement that had urred between them, after Gai had found him in the temple, things for the most part had seemed to return to normal. Of course, a reason for that outside of his senseis concern for his well-being, was because Lee had done his level best to give Naruto a wide berth. An easy enough task as the Uzumaki had directed most of his efforts since the battle to help clean up the mess. In fact, the celebration of said battle that they had been attending had been the first time the two of them had been in the same room together, outside of a brief exchange of pleasantries when Naruto had checked on him after returning from dropping Yuugao and Kashike off in Konoha.


    Still, with things having calmed between his teacher and him, Lee had been prepared to ept the challenge that he imagined was about to be issued to him. So, if felt like a p in the face when Gai asked, So how about it, Naruto? Are you open to the idea of putting on a demonstration of what a real battle between shinobi would be like?


    Lee could see that it was Narutos turn to have been caught off guard by the request, as had Tenten who had been sitting next to him. They both sent a look towards him, having likely both been expecting Gai would have used the opportunity to promote his favored student. As a result, the Uzumaki hesitantly asked, Um, why me?


    Gai gave a wide grin as he said, Well, normally Id of course challenge my rival, Kakashi and try to even the score between us. But, as it is his turn to pick what form that challenge will take, I doubt the warriors of Ruin would find much entertainment in watching a game of rock-paper-scissors.


    Kakashi looked up from his book for a moment as he responded to his name, Did you want something Gai?


    Only to say, I love that cool and aloof attitude of yours, Kakashi.


    Thanks, the one-eyed jounin replied as he gave a brief smile behind his mask, before returning to his book.


    Returning his focus to Naruto, Gai continued, So, outside of Kakashi, I must confess to being most interested in seeing how far along youvee Naruto.


    Lee felt a spike of anger as Naruto allowed a pleased smile to appear at being recognized by the jounin. He looked like he was about to ept, but Lee stood first stating, With all due respect Gai-Sensei. I do not believe such a match would best serve the Guild Masters wishes.


    Curious Pluton asked, How so?


    If you are interested in demonstrating the benefits of the shinobi academy system, would it not be best for the participants to be more recent graduates of it, Lee stated before indicating towards his teacher. Gai-sensei is truly a masterful shinobi. But I do not feel he would make for a good example of the Academys benefits, in the same way one of your tinum ranked Adventurers would not be a good example of what you feel your own system iscking.


    Hm, I see your point, Pluton said after a moment of consideration, Youre saying that much as a tinum ranked Adventurers has been shaped by their years of experience rather than by ack of formal training, Master Gai would no longer be an urate reflection of the young shinobi your academy produces.


    That is correct, Lee replied before adding, However, I would be more than happy to take part in such a match. Although, it has been seven years since I graduated the Academy. I do believe I would be a more urate reflection of its benefits. Pluton looked like he was about to agree, but as Lee suspected it would be for the original battle royal style match he had first proposed, quickly turned his focus to Naruto as he asked, So, how about it, Naruto, would you like to help show the people of Ruin the skills possessed by a Chunin and Genin of Konoha?


    Despite having added an inflection to stress Narutos lower rank, Lee kept his face impassive, and took a small amount of satisfaction as he noted the corner of the Uzumakis mouth threatening to break into a frown. Rather than Naruto responding it was Tenten who tried to say, Lee not to be rude


    Then do not be, and allow Naruto to speak for himself, Lee interrupted her quickly, and rather harshly.


    Tenten looked shocked at his response, and he noticed despite his previous digs at the Uzumaki throughout the mission, for the first time a sh of genuine anger appeared briefly in Narutos eyes, at which pointed he answered, Fine, lets do it.


    Excellent, Pluton said excitedly, Well hold the match tomorrow.


    *******


    Lee smiled as the memories began to fade in favor of focusing on the fight toe. He would admit to feeling a little guilty about how harshly he had cut off Tenten, but believing how she had been about to tell him that he didnt stand a chance, much as she had when he continuously had challenged Neji, he felt he had needed to shut her down. But what he found most surprising; was that he wasing to believe that it had been how he had spoken to her which had prompted Naruto to ept the challenge. After all, even the reminder of his lower rank, while it had obviously dug at his pride somewhat, hadnt elicited the same emotional response. Although, Lee supposed it could have simply been due to how Tenten and him had been spending quite a bit of time together as she endeavored to learn the Hirashin jutsu from him.


    Lee looked at the gathered crowd filling the stands, and felt like finally it would be his time to shine. As he felt that atst, he had a stage on which he could show everyone exactly what a true underdog could do. As although he hadnt swungpletely over to Nejis old ideas in regard to destiny defining ones path, he would admit to feeling as if it had been conspiring against him ever since he was born. First by cursing him with a body which meant he would need to struggle harder than any of his peers only to achieve a third of the results as his inability to harness chakra meant he would only be able to master one of the three techniques that most shinobi relied on. He had next felt destinys stacking the deck against him again during his first run through the Chunin Exams, as despite having the trump card that he felt would help him finally triumph over his rival Neji, he had instead been forced to use it against a true monster in the form of Gaara. Which while he had been proud of how well he had done, despite the damage that had been done to his body. It had been a p in the face to realize it was probably due in part to how hard he had pushed Gaara, and exposed the scope of just how strong his defense was, that Sasuke was all the more prepared to face him. All in all, making him feel like destiny had selected him to be the fodder sent to attack a fortress and expose its weaknesses so the chosen elite would have an easier time of it. But, as bad as that was, learning Naruto, who had railed against destiny all throughout his match with Neji, which Lee felt should have been his, was in fact touched by, if not by a mystical being selecting the winners and losers in life, he certainly had through the Konoha leaders efforts to manufacture a hero narrative, had been a whole lot worse.


    Lee couldnt exactly say exactly when he hade to believe the narrative which had surrounded Naruto to be nothing more than vige propaganda. After all, he had learned of Narutos status as a jinchuriki shortly after the Uzumaki had left the vige on his training trip with Jiraiya as Tsunade had told all those close to him of the dangers he faced due to Akatsuki targeting him. At first, Lee had felt sorry for him, feeling it must have been a heavy burden to be rejected by the vige because of something that had been forced upon him at birth. But he suspected it had nted the seed that Narutos victory against Neji had not necessarily been his. Thinking about it now, Lee wasing to believe it wasnt a single point in time which opened his eyes to the lie that was Naruto Uzumaki, hero of the leaf. But rather his ever-evolving history which as the lies were reced with the truth showed the Orphan nobody wanted was instead the child of one of the most beloved Hokage, the deadst in his ss was handpicked by said Hokage, his father, to hold one of the most powerful bijuu. Practically insuring he would not be allowed to fail, and was in fact fated to be taught by one of the greatest shinobi ever produced by Konoha, who not only trained the Fourth Hokage, but had been trained by the Third himself. Lee even suspected that Kakashi had been selected as Narutos sensei due to his ties to his father.


    Lee would admit that despite being a false underdog, Naruto was capable of facing the many challenges that he encountered. But again, Lee felt that by sealing the Nine-Tailed Fox into Naruto, the Fourth Hokage was ensuring his son would be at the forefront of the shinobi world no matter what. He also believed the Fourth Hokage had to have a strong belief in destiny himself to seal the bijuu into his just born son, when sealing it into someone like Kakashi would make infinitely more sense as with a Bijuus chakra, hed probably be able to use his Sharingan eye almost indefinitely.


    Still, regardless of who would have been a better host for the Bijuu, Lee was rather grateful the Forth had chosen Naruto, as he felt it was the opportunity that destiny had so long been denying him to make the statement that he was someone to take seriously. A feeling which extended back to how despite being one of the strongestpetitors in his second appearance in the Chunin exams that had been held in Suna and, where he had even met someone afflicted with the same curse as him, and so felt by appearing in the Third Round, hed be able to make that statement. However, again destiny had denied him as instead due to domestic matters in Suna the final round had been canceled. Yet, now he felt that perhaps destiny had instead just been postponing for this moment since by besting Naruto here or failing that, forcing him to call on his Bijuu to show that he was nothing without it. Lee believed now that the truth was known, it would be all the more impactful if the false underdog was shown to be nothing without all the advantages that he had been given, but which had been hidden away so people would cheer him on, and he was the perfect vessel to drive that point home


    He smirked as Naruto limbered up across from him having traded in the Pdin armor he wore for his usually clothes and sage cloak, while likely believing in his own legend, and suspecting that he would not be facing much of a challenge. A feeling that Lee suspected all of hisrades from the Leaf shared. But he promised himself that hed make them choke on that belief, especially since both he and Naruto had faced the Demon head on, and both had been bested by it. With only Narutos holding a Bijuu being the deciding factor as to why he had recovered enough to act as the distraction for it while the mages and priests of Ruin actually set about banishing it.


    Lees attention was pulled to the arenas viewing box as Pluton called to them, Warriors of the Leaf, are you ready to begin?


    Lee dropped into his fighting stance, before replying that he was, and allowed a scowl to appear on his face as Naruto indicated likewise, although he remained standing in a rxed manner. Lee intended to make him pay for his hubris, as Pluton shouted, Begin. Yet, before his brain even processed the Guild Masters words to begin moving Naruto simply disappeared. For a moment, Lee feared he had used a genjutsu on him, but then his senses of danger began screaming at him to evade so he dodged to the side, and felt the wind as Naruto fist blew pass him. The blond quickly came to a stop, and spun to face him beforeunching himself towards him again. Lee froze for a moment, as despite being unable to use chakra himself, he had found that made him somewhat adapt at sensing it. Not in the same scope as a sensor, but rather it made him able to sense it usage within his vicinity as generally hed feel a small charge that would make the hairs on his body stand. An ability Lee had honed, to act as an indicator for when an opponent would attack, since pretty much all shinobi used it to enhance their speed and reflexes, and it would give him a slight edge by allowing him to attack first or prepare to defend. However, both in Narutos first charge and now as he dropped into his second, Lee had failed to feel that small charge making him realize that Naruto had not used any chakra to achieve his speed.


    A fact which caused Lee to frown as this time around he found that he could easily follow Narutos movements even though he was probably moving faster than most of those watching could follow. As such Lee charged to meet him. But, as they shed and each began throwing a flurry of punches, he found that each of his was in turn met by a punch from Naruto, and as their fists collided over and over, he began to feel the charge that indicated the jinchuriki was using chakra. However, while for a split moment Lee felt a surge of tion that he was forcing Naruto to rely on his chakra after all, he quickly came to realize that he was doing so in order to coat his hands with it. Lee suspected he had done so because the Uzumaki recognizing the fact that as he trained by punching wooden posts with his bare hands, and so in a head-to-head sh without the protective coating Naruto knew hede out the loser. Which was a minor win for Lee, but it was a far cry from the statement he wanted to make. However, Lee quickly recognized it wasnt even the minor victory that he had initially felt it to be, as he tried to increase his speed and frequency of his punches, hoping to break through the stalemate they had seemingly fallen into. Yet, Naruto simply began to match him, forcing him to admit that as the jinchuriki was able to read his movements and respond in time tounch a punch of his own which countered his, it was likely that he was capable ofunching an attack that Lee wouldnt likely be able to stop.


    Tired of allowing the Uzumaki to lead him around by the nose, Lee dropped back and when Naruto moved in trying to press his seeming advantage, he raised up a knee aiming it for the Uzumakis midsection. Naruto threw a punch, which collided with his knee knocking it back down, which Lee had expected and so flipped forward into an axe kick that he tried to bring down on the blonds head. Naruto however simply crossed his arms above it, and blocked the attack. He thentched onto the leg and stepping back pulled Lee after him as he spun and tossed him.


    Lee hit the ground, but quickly rolled back up to his feet and into a guard position as he expected Naruto to continue to press the advantage. However, instead he found the blond standing in the same rxed manner he had begun the match in. while the crowd erupted into a thunderous apuse. A sound which cut through Lee almost more than if they had been jeers, because despite the shy disy they had put on, he knew from the word go, Naruto had only been toying with him. Although, Lee wasnt quite sure if the word toying was exactly urate, as he began to feel as if Naruto could end the match at any time that he wanted, and if he truly wanted to, he could demonstrate to the crowd exactly who was in control of the fight.


    The idea filled Lee with a burning fury as he charged Naruto at top speed, not needing to drop his weights since he hadnt been able rece the ones that had been damaged during his fight with the demon. He took sce that upon reaching him, Naruto seemed to be on the backfoot as he surrendered ground, while Lee primarily sent various kicks his way, hoping the increased distance and power that they afforded him, would keep his opponent off bnce. But, just as Lee began to feel frustrated, that he had yet to get anything through Narutos guard. He found his head rocked back, when Naruto sidestepped to the right of one of his kicks, and extended out his left hand with the palm facing outward which he drove into his chin. Lee tried to clear the cobwebs the sudden blow caused, but then gasped in pain as Naruto delivered a kick to his sternum which sent him stumbling backwards.


    Feeling frustrated as Naruto began to charge him, Lee waited until he was just within reach, before quickly digging into his ninja tool pouch behind him and pulled out his nunchucks, and swung at the blond. Naruto stopped at thest moment, and gracefully leaned back as the wooden handle passed inches from his face. He then stepped back, and caused Lee to gnash his teach as a small amused smile appeared on the blonds face at the apparent desperate move. A move, which caused a few of the crowd to turn on Lee as they saw his sudden pulling of a weapon as a cheap tactic. Which, naturally caused the anger in Lee to grow even hotter as he found his hero narrative crumbling to dust. Pushing it out of his mind, he charged Naruto who simply responded by creating several shadow clones which met him, but failed to withstand the blows to them that he delivered, even in the cases where they managed to block him as the damage was sufficient enough to dispel them. Lee appeared from the smoke cloud the clones demise had created to find Naruto waiting for him, while holding a pair of fighting sticks.


    Lee rushed in undeterred only to find that, much like his punches earlier, every time he swung his nunchucks at the blond, it was battered away by one of the sticks. However, despite both being seemingly made of wood, the exchange of blows had a noticeable detrimental effect on his weapon as the handles began to splinter and crack. Lee switched which handle heshed out with several times, as he tried to keep Naruto at bay, but finally one of the handles gave way as it shattered to pieces, leaving him wide open, at which point Naruto let fly a devastating front kick to his chest. Lee flew back, andnded hard, belly first on the ground as he felt like a rib may have snaped from the blow. Clutching at his chest as he struggled to get back to his feet, he watched Naruto tuck the sticks behind him and beneath his cloak before resuming his rxed stance which screamed at Lee to attack him.


    Staring at Naruto, Lee had a thought that hadnt really urred to him since he faced Gaara in the first exams, Hes a monster. Feeling that desperation again, perhaps even more acutely as unlike back then where he had felt as if he had been pressuring Gaara to some extent. Lee felt as if he was simply an insect waiting to be stepped on. Unwilling to allow things to end like that, he stood as he said, This isnt over yet. I will not lose here.


    Crossing his arms before him, he began to open the chakra gates within his body allowing him to harness his limited chakra in order to enhance his strength and speed for a time. However, before he could fully open them, Naruto disappeared from his sight and jammed his hand into Lees stomach folding him around the blow, before his follow through sent him tumbling away. Lee felt he must have cked out for a few seconds, as he found himself face down in the dirt. He could hear the crowd roaring appreciatively, and felt Naruto approaching slowly. Finding his arms beneath him, as he had instinctively grabbed his stomach following Narutos blow, he rose up to his knees but kept his head down, hoping to enter the stance to open the Gates from his downed position.


    Dont bother, Naruto stated, which Lee didnt need to y dumb as he found his limited chakra refused to enter the elerated stated require to open the gates, so suspected the blondsst blow had ced a suppression seal on him. Raising his head, he found Naruto had stopped a few feet away, and was ring at him angrily, at which point the Uzumaki said harshly, Youre pathetic, were you really going to open the gates to try and beat me?


    Lee found the anger that question filled him with was enough to make him forget about the pain in his chest and stomach, and he quickly surged to his feet. He threw a punch intended for Narutos jaw, but it was blocked as the jinchuriki raised his left arm to intercept his iing attack. Naruto then stepped to the side, and locked his right arm, before using his own to deliver several punches to Lees exposed midsection. He then threw Lee over his hip so that hended on his back again. Shaking his head as he crouched near the exhausted Lees head, the Uzumaki said, Honestly, was that your game n. It took you opening Four Gates, and wrecking your body toe close to beating Gaara, when he was a genin. What price do you think youd need to pay toe close this time around?


    Go to hell, Lee said, his chest feeling like it was on fire, You wouldnt understand.


    Oh, but I do, Naruto said a note of sympathy entering his tone, Only too well. But assuming you did beat me. What would that prove? Youd be a cripple, and Id just continue on being that much stronger than you. Would being able to say you were stronger, for what, a few seconds, minutes maybe really be worth the cost youd have to pay for the rest of your life. Dont you have anything in your life worth more to you than your pride? Narutos question prompted a vision of Fuki and Kasumi to sh before him for a moment, which caused a small measure of guilt to well up inside him which for a moment seemed to hurt worse than the number Naruto had done to his chest. The Uzumaki seemed to sense, what his words had conjured up in him, but rather thanmenting on it stated, If not, you should just retire from being a shinobi. Lee was caught by surprise at the blonds statement until the Uzumaki said, Listen to that crowd. From their perspective, we put on quite the show I imagine, and if all that matters to you is your pride, you should stay here, be an adventurer. Im sure Pluton would consider it a great boon to take you on as an instructor in this academy he is trying to get off the ground. Theres no guarantee youll match up against their top ranked adventurers, but considering the crowds reaction to our bout, youll probably be in the running I imagine.


    The crowds cheers were dying down as they seemed to realize the fight was over, a fact Lee was grateful for as the cheers had been rather painful to his pride since he knew they were undeserved at least in regards to whatever portion of them were being directed his way. Coming to ept that Naruto had been in control of the fight from the very beginning Lee asked, Why?


    Naruto didnt need for him to borate why he had allowed the crowd to believe the fight had been at allpetitive, as he exined, Because, I do understand where you areing from. I already told you about how when I first started out as a shinobi, all I wanted to do was make everyone acknowledge me by bing Hokage. I was fighting for my own pride then. But I met someone who told me that true strengthes when they have something truly important to protect. I hadnt yet fullye to understand the truth behind those words even by the time when we first met. I was still caught up in winning acknowledgement, from the vige, the person I saw as my greatest rival, Sasuke, and even guys like you and Neji. But now I see how pointless such things are. Being recognized as the strongest is never going to be fulfilling enough so long as there is someone else out there who is potentially stronger than you. And, no matter how much a crowd proims that they love you, such things are not going to keep you warm on a cold night. I am strong. Not because of anything my father put within me, although admittedly it didnt hurt. But because I have people who are truly precious to me, and so will fight to protect them, and all they hold dear with every fiber of my being. Naruto looked away, and seeing some medical personnel carrying a stretcher between them as they approached stood as he added, Should you ever find that for yourself, I believe youll be someone who is truly strong.


    Naruto began walking away as Lee groaned slightly when he was picked up to be ced on the stretcher. As he was carried away, he contemted some of what Naruto had told him, when it suddenly dawned on him how outside of a single use of the shadow clone justsu, and enhancing his hands along with the fighting sticks he had used, Naruto had bested him without using chakra. He began to feel a deep shame at his behavior towards the Uzumaki, who had not only beaten him in a manner which had left the crowd with the impression the match had beenpetitive and thus had protected his pride, but now found that it had also instilled in him a sense of hope. Since Lee couldnt deny there was a chasm which separated them in terms of their abilities, one which the Uzumaki had disyed had little to do with the inherent advantages and disadvantages that they had been born with.


    *********


    Tenten was fuming as she walked through the tunnels that run underneath Ruins arena. A feeling she had kept hidden from her lover, as she had just finished congratting him for his victory over Lee, who for the most part she admitted had gotten what he hading, having been tempted to smack her old teammate a few times herself during the trip to Ruin due to some of the barbs he had sent Narutos way. Still, even with that being the case, she in truth wasnt even all that angry with Lee, since a part of her felt some manner of responsibility for how bitter he had be and feared that with how she often stated that hed never measure up to the likes of Neji, it had nted the seeds of bitterness that he had recently been directing her lovers way. Yet, what truly had her stalking towards the room where Lee had been taken after the match was the anger that she felt towards the man who had often acted as her opposite number, and cheered Lee on, and who she felt had instigated the fight between her lover and the Green loving Chunin.


    Reaching the door, she threw it open to find Gai sitting in the small room near a closed door, behind which she assumed Lee was currently resting. Upon noticing her, Gai gave her a smile full of teeth in his usual manner as he said energetically, Ah Tenten, its good of you toe. Im afraid if youre here to see Lee, hes currently resting. It appears hell probably have to wait until our return to Konoha before he is fully healed. It looks like since most of the priests can only cast their healing spells one or two times a day. So, theyre less inclined to waste them on people who choose to get injured fighting for what they feel isnt a valid reason.


    Tenten nodded, absentmindedly as she could understand why since she had learned from Moegi that the Priest and Priestesses, described their abilities as miracles, which they believed were bestowed upon them from the gods. The orange-haired Kunoichi, had taken an interest in it upon seeing just how quickly andpletely the local clergy had healed Kashike and Lee, and figured it would be something Tsunade would be interested in since even medical ninjutsu would probably need several treatments to achieve simr results. Tenten had been a little annoyed that she hadnt thought of it first, even uponing to the conclusion that in the end her role model would find it interesting, but ultimately useless in all but the most extreme cases as she believed the results were due to the priests effectively wasting vast amounts of chakra, which may serve to overcast their miracles giving stronger results, but was also why they could only use them a time or two a day. She imagined that what the priests effectively believed was their gods bestowing them an extra miracle or casting of a new spell as they grew more experienced, was just them rudimentarily learning to cast it more effectively, thus giving them extra uses.


    However, she shook such concerns from her mind as she focused on her former sensei who was still smiling at her to ask, What the hell is wrong with you?


    Gais smile faded as he replied, I am not sure what you mean, or why you appear to be so angry with me.


    Really, Tenten stated, annoyed with Gais professed ignorance. So, youre going to pretend that you didnt intentionally rile Lee up by challenging Naruto to a match.


    Not at all, Gai stated calmly, Only that I am unsure why you seem so angry about it. Im sure there were plenty of times during our days together as a team when you could have made a simr case against me working Lee up so that hed challenge Neji.


    Tenten frowned at Gais reply, as she worried if perhaps, she was protesting too much due to her feelings for Naruto, since the truth of the matter was much as he had stated. Hoping to shift the matter away from how she was angry at how he had manipted matters to drive her former teammate and lover to blows, she said, Maybe because we both know Lee never stood a chance against Naruto.


    Gai gave her a knowing smile as he sat back in his chair and countered, Hmmm, thats funny. I remember you often would tell Lee that he had no chance against Neji either. So, Im not entirely convinced that hisck of a chance is where this passion ising from. Tenten suddenly felt like a genin again, who was trying to conceal something from her teacher, who knew that was exactly what she was doing due to the look Gai was giving her. She tried to hide her reaction, but doubted her sess which was why she was surprised as he dropped the matter to say, But, what I am convinced of is that you desire to understand why I would wish Lee to enter a fight I was sure he would lose, considering the negative feelings he was harboring towards Naruto. No doubted because you are concerned those feelings would only intensify. Receiving a nod, Gai indicated a nearby wooden chair, and once she had taken a seat, he exined, Youre right, I did manipte Lee into fighting Naruto and expected that he would lose. I did this because I wanted Lee to learn the resiliency of a losers heart.


    You wanted to give Lee a losers heart, Tenten said not quite believing her ears, How is being a loser going to help him?


    Gai sighed and allowed a slight tone of annoyance to enter his voice, There is a difference between being a loser, and having the resiliency of one. His tone took on the familiar tenor that he would use when trying to impart a lesson to his students, which took her back to her genin days as he began to exin, Imagine you have two teams, one is the heavy favorite to win, while the other is all but assured to lose. Who do you think is feeling the most pressure to win?


    I dont know, Tenten replied feeling the questioncked too much context to arrive at a clear answer. Truthfully, it could be either of them, neither, or both.


    To her surprise, Gai nodded proudly as he said, Exactly right. The answer would be the same if I asked you who would feel the most pressure not to lose.


    Isnt that the same thing? Tenten asked a little confused, not used to her former teacher speaking in riddles.


    Not necessarily, Gai answered, as his head turned slightly as if something had caught his attention. But he continued on as he stated, A winner is a winner because he wins. But a loser only bes a loser when he gives up. Tenten figured her sensei must have seen that she wasnt entirely on board with his philosophy so he borated, Let me use a more specific example to highlight my point, When Naruto was to meet Neji in the Chunin Exams, who do you think felt the most pressure to win?


    Naruto, Tenten answered without needing to think about it. When Gai arched an eyebrow, she borated, Neji believed he was destined to win. While Naruto wanted to show him that there was no such thing as destiny.


    Are you sure? Gai asked, indicating that her answer might not necessarily be the case. It is true that Neji definitely didnt show he was nervous or felt any pressure. Mainly, because he knew he outssed Naruto as a shinobi. But, Nejis entire outlook on life was riding on the oue of that match.


    Narutos was too, Tenten said quickly, feeling the need to point out her lover also had quite a bit riding on the matches oue.


    Gai nodded in agreement, although he countered, True, but that doesnt that mean they stood to lose in the same fashion. If Naruto had lost. I have little doubt, hed just get back to his feet and challenge Neji again. Hed learn what lessons he needed to, and then throw himself at the challenge again. However, Neji had crafted for himself a world view where if he seeded it was because he was naturally talented, and if he failed, it was because he was simply destined to. He created for himself an existence where he didnt strive for anything better, even as he secretly longed for it. Which is why he was so bitter, a side of himself he showed in his preliminary match with his cousin, and it also came out to a lesser degree in his match against Naruto because he continuously challenged his view.


    Okay, Tenten said not entirely sure of the point her sensei was trying to make, So youre saying Neji was actually feeling far more pressure to seed then I originally imagined. But, what does that have to do with why youd manipte Lee into challenging Naruto?


    Gais face wrinkled at her use of the word, manipte, but let it pass withoutment. He collected his thoughts for a moment, before stating, It is tied to it because you believe I favored Lee over you and Neji during our time as a team.


    Tenten felt her hackles rise slightly as she said, Maybe because you did.


    Did I, Gai replied his tone making her question herself for a moment, but she still responded with a nod. True, I did spend more time and effort on Lee, Gai said, causing Tenten to make a face which conveyed she felt that was never open for debate. However, he continued, But, that was solely because Lee was the most open to being taught. Neji, on the other hand was too busy teaching himself Hyuuga techniques to seek my opinion or console. You, on the other hand woulde to me from time to time, but only for the most rudimentary of pointers. After your loss to Temari in the Exams, I thought it would only be natural for you to seek me out to correct your dependence on weapons. But you had other ideas, and doubled down on an aspect of ninjutsu you had long since mastered.


    Tenten crossed her arms, and frowned since she was of the belief that it had Gais preupation with training Lee which was why she had felt neglected. You still could have offered.


    By that point, both you and Neji had made it clear you were interested in doing your own thing, Gai stated. If you wanted things to change, you should have been the one to indicate it.


    Tenten conceded the point with a shrug, but countered, Still you cant deny that you favored Lee over us. You did teach him how to open the Eight Gates.


    Gai let out a deep resigned sigh as he replied, Something which Ivee to truly regret.


    Tenten was caught off-guard by the statement, so could only ask, Why?


    To her, Gai suddenly looked tired, before exining, Because, when I first taught it to Lee, I wanted to show him there was a way for him to be strong while only relying on Taijutsu. However, I also had an ulterior reason.


    Tenten felt a sudden surge of understanding and eximed, You were turning him into a weapon against Neji. Thats why you never told us about it. You wanted to have Lee beat Neji in the Chunin Exams, hoping hed have the same change of heart.


    Gai nodded, Yes, I believed that armed with the knowledge of how to open the Eight Gates, and Nejis own conviction of his natural superiority. Lee would have surprised him, and triumphed. For you see, to me, while I know you might not believe it to be the case considering that up to that point Lee had never once bested Neji. In truth, I would have ssified Neji as a loser, for he had given up on truly living, he just had the talent that it wasnt apparent. While Lee had the resiliency of a loser, to continuously pick himself up, in order to try again.


    I dont know, Tenten said with a note of disbelief in her voice, Even armed with that technique, I find it hard to believe that hed have been able to beat Neji.


    Gai gave her a soft smile as he said, Why? A far less spectacr ninja was able to beat Neji using a hidden trump card. Why do you think it was that I didnt tell Neji about Naruto containing the nine-tailed fox?


    Tentens jaw dropped as she quickly stood, to say, Wait?! What?! I thought the Thirdsw would have prevented you.


    Gai shook his head, as he replied, Under normal circumstances yes. But it was in truth because of the Thirds Law that the Hokage himself offered me a special dispensation from it. After all, Kakashi had knowledge that Sasuke was also facing a jinchuriki, and so was allowed to teach a special A ranked assassination technique to him. The Thirdsw by its very nature made it so that Neji would be going into the match blind.


    Then why didnt you, Tenten said growing upset despite the circumstance having favored her lover, You were Nejis sensei. You owed it to him.


    Gai shook his head, as he countered, Ignoring the fact that Neji actually asked you to help him train for the match so he could perfect Rotation. As Nejis sensei, my job wasnt to ensure his victory, rather to help him be a better shinobi, and I believed his losing that match was the best oue for him. Thats why, even though I felt Neji outssed Naruto in every way possible. I held my tongue on his being a jinchuriki, hoping that small power he had clearly not mastered along with his can-do attitude would see him through. Otherwise, if Neji had won and remained the same what do you think would have happened the first time he experienced an opponent that truly outssed him? Not receiving an answer immediately, he supplied his own passionately, He would have rolled over and died. Blindly epting that it was his ce to do so, rather than raging against fate as both Lee and Naruto struggled to do.


    Despite a part of her still being upset on Nejis behalf, she epted the wisdom of Gais words. Especially, since future events had proved him correct during the Sasuke retrieval mission so asked, But, if you believe both Lee and Naruto possess this resiliency of losers you im to value. Why do you now regret teaching Lee how to open the Eight Gates?


    Because, while Neji gained that resiliency as a result of his match and subsequent loss to Narut, Gai answered sadly, It appears Lee has lost it. As his willingness to try to open the gates in his match against Naruto proved. He has be someone who needed to win, regardless of what was at stake or the cost.


    No offense Gai-sensei, Tenten stated quickly, But, didnt he show that in his match against Gaara?


    Yes, and no, her former teacher answered quickly obviously having contemted the matter previously. In his match against Gaara, Lee, much like Neji, felt his entire world view was riding on the oue. Thus, he pushed his body to the absolute limits and beyond. But he also believed that victory was something he could achieve, and very nearly did. Only Gaaras own quick thinking saved him from Lees final attack from it being a debilitating blow. Yet, today that wasnt the case. You watched the match, what were your thoughts on it.


    Tenten thought about how best to reply for a moment, before deciding to bluntly state, Naruto dominated it. If I didnt know him better, Id almost say he was toying with him.


    Gai chuckled, as he said, Oh ho, and just how well have you gotten to know him since he has begun teaching you the Hiraishin.


    Tentens cheeks flushed red, as she sputtered out, I I just meant that that a lot of what happened appeared to be for the benefit of the crowd. Which even though at times I had a hard to following the action, it was easy to see Naruto was the one dictating the pace, even without needing to rely on chakra.


    Gai allowed himself a few more chuckles due to her red cheeks, before finally agreeing with her assessment, I concur, which means Lee had to know he never really stood a chance. As even if he had opened the same number of gates he did against Gaara, he should have recognized that as Naruto had yet to really call on any of his own chakra, as things stood, it would have been a futile effort.


    But, if Lee felt it was his world view at stake then


    She trailed off as Gai held up a hand, at which point he exined, In a manner of speaking, he did. Except, much like Neji, he had built a world view where his failings were not his fault. Instead, those who he viewed as more sessful than him were just given advantages he was not. That was why he was blind to what Naruto was truly showing him, and would attempt to open the gates knowing what cost he may be asked to pay.


    Tenten frowned, not really seeing what her sensei meant, since much as she had stated from her perspective Naruto had almost appeared to toy with Lee, and while she knew a lesser man probably would have to show Lee how wrong he was for challenging him, knew that wasnt within her lovers character. At which point it suddenly dawned on her, Thats why he wasnt using his chakra. He was trying to show Lee there was still room to grow.


    Gai inclined his head, Yes, he was practically screaming to Lee that the chasm that currently stands between them has little to do with how much chakra they have.


    Then, is the reason you are beginning to regret teaching Lee how to open the gates because rather than listening to what Naruto was trying to tell him, he would rather potentially cripple himself then allow his view to be challenged, Tenten asked,ing around to Gais belief in the resiliency of losers.


    Again, Gai looked tired as he gave a short nod, while replying, It is perhaps hypocritical of me to feel that way. Since, I taught Lee the technique hoping hed use it against an opponent he would have been told he had no chance against. But, at the time I had believed that should he have used it to beat Neji, and upon being given that taste of victory that all losers, or as they are usually are called in such circumstances, underdogs, long for, it would have truly helped drive his will to seed to the next level. Unfortunately, I fear that instead the technique has be a crutch for him. One he tried to use today, because he no longer has the courage to take a loss and move on. He sat back in the chair, and staring at the ceiling said wistfully, A part of me wonders if things had yed out as I originally hoped, if not both of my students would have grown stronger from the experience.


    Tenten although understanding that the reason Gai had maneuvered Lee into having a match with Naruto was in the hopes it would have a simr oue as had resulted from his match during the Chunin Exams, was still confused on one point so asked, How did you know Naruto would hold back, and not just crush Lee? I cant imagine it would have worked out as you hoped if he did.


    Gai smiled, as his more upbeat personality began to reappear while stating, Naruto, has be someone truly strong, and such people dont seek to lord their strength over those they perceive to be weaker than them. A fact he demonstrated quite a few times during this mission, as there were moments where I wanted to belt Lee myself on his behalf. I didnt know hed be quite so amodating as to show Lee that there was still room to grow. But I believe that Naruto, much as my father did, truly understands that having power isnt about lording it over others. And while my father only had one shining moment of brilliance, when despite being known derisively as the Eternal Genin he managed to kill four of the Seven Swordsmen of Mist. He never let the fact that he was looked on as a loser bother him. Despite his own career being far more spectacr, Naruto hasnt forgotten what it was to be looked down on as a loser, and so would never truly desire to help aid that brand being applied to another. That is strength, having the belief in ones own self-worth, and what I like to think of as having the resiliency of a loser. Which is why I believed he would show Neji how self-defeating his world view was, and I hope he has once again demonstrated as much to Lee.


    Despite having originally been angry at her sensei for his actions, hearing his glowing thoughts on her lover did much to elevate her mood. So, she stood while asking, Do you think it will?


    Time will tell, he replied simply.


    Tenten inclined her head, before heading towards the door to leave. She paused to look back towards her sensei and noticed that although the door he sat beside and behind which she assumed Lee had been resting still appeared to betched, it didnt look to be as firmly closed as it had upon her arrival. Suspecting some of their conversation had been heard by one of the parties discussed, she hoped things worked out as Gai hoped, as she didnt want to have to pick sides as appeared to be the case brewing between the former members of Team Asuma.


    *******


    Tsunade was drinking in a sweet nectar, which tasted like one of the finest sake that she had ever had the privilege to enjoy. This nectar was abination of two blonds, one of whom was kneeling over her face offering it to her while the other was doing his best to bring her pink haired apprentice to orgasm by stirring her pussy up with his Kunoichi tamer in order to produce a new vor for either her or Ino to enjoy.


    Tsunade pulled her face away from Inos quim and began to rub along her slit with her thumb to make sure she continued to moan contently. Which as the Yamanaka enjoyed her ministrations, she took a moment to stare through her fellow blondes thighs to enjoy the sight of Sakura kneeling between her own, while she eagerlypped at her folds. Tsunade let out a moan of her own as Naruto picked up the pace and began driving his pink haired lovers tongue harder into her with each thrust.


    She felt a tinge of disappointment due to Naruto pulling Sakura away as he pulled her back up against his chest, so used her other hand to take over the task her apprentices tongue had just been performing. She began to rub both herself and Ino in time with Naruto, who from his frantic and powerful thrusts appeared to be nearing the point of no return.


    Something Sakura announced as well as she cried out, Yes, fuck meits so fucking good! Fill me up again! Gods its been been too long!


    A sentiment that Tsunade agreed with as she imagined it was her pussy currently being abused by her lovers cock, which admittedly was rtively easy to do as he had just filled her up before having moved onto Sakura. Not to mention had creampied both her and Ino three times each and was working on delivering Sakura her third. A task hepleted as he pulled her down onto hisp, and groaned, Oh fuck, your cunt is milking me dry.


    For her part Sakura, just let out a scream of pleasure which was mirrored by Ino as Tsunade returned her attention to her fellow blond to give her clit a suck which sent her over the edge, an edged herself over the cliff as well although her own release seemed pale inparison to the cries of her fellow kunoichi.


    Ino reced one set of lips with another as she moved off Tsunades face to pull her into an appreciative kiss. She then rolled off the bed to slip into therge shower room that separated the Dens Master bedroom from Club N.


    Despite the sense of contentment Tsunade felt in the moment, she felt a small measure of concern well up within her when the smile Naruto wore as he looked down at a well satisfied Sakura faltered for a moment when his gaze left her to stare off into the dimmed room. She suspected that he was likely looking inward for the moment and reflecting on some of the matters that she had filled him in on after he reappeared in her office that morning to deliver Kakashis report on the mission, and so was concerned that she may had contributed to some of the burden that had caused his smile to falter. However, as if sensing her eyes upon him, his gaze turned to her and his smile returned in full, causing her heart to flutter, and filling her with a desire to feel his body pressed against hers. A need Naruto also seemed to share as he moved toy beside her, and she quickly molded herself to his side. Sakura tried to do likewise butcked the strength to pull herself fully up his body, so settled for resting her head on his stomach.


    Although afraid she was opening a can of worms that would ruin the tender moment, she asked, What seems to be troubling you, My Love?


    His eyes widened a little in surprise, likely believing he had done a better job of hiding it, and wishing to not spoil the moment responded, Its nothing.


    Not satisfied with his reply, and hoping to clear herself of being the cause, she asked with a fair amount of concern, It isnt because I told Yuugao that she should take some time off to really think about her actions and to spend some time to find herself and where she belonged.


    Naruto sat up as best her could, and tilted her face to capture her lips to silence her and let her know through action that he had not been angered by Yuugao taking her words to heart and had closed off her fox mark again, before leaving the vige. Although, she had told Tsunade that she was heading to the Whirling Tides Hotel in Wave.


    When their lips parted, Naruto said, I understand why you told her that, and trust shell reach out to me when she is ready. She has been through a lot, and while I wish I could be there for her. I know that a part of what she needs to work through is rted to her feelings for me, in conjunction to what happed between her and Hayate in Ruin.


    While feeling relieved that she hadnt contributed to the burden trying to take root in him, and hoping to help his carry it she prodded, Then


    Her lover chuckled at her persistence, before it faded as he grew contemtive as he allowed what was nagging him to reach the surface, I suppose that if something is bothering me, it is how Baki changed his plea to guilty, and will allow himself be imprisoned.


    Tsunade found herself rather surprised by the reply so stated, I thought youd be pleased. Wasnt that why you Hiraishined him to the vige in the first ce?


    At the time, I was just hoping to deescte the situation, Naruto admitted, and hoped bringing him to Konoha would get Hayate to see reason. The Uzumaki sighed in lingering disappointment as things obviously hadnt gone the way he had hoped, before continuing, Considering how well that turned out, Im just not sure why he would agree to pleading guilty, especially after meeting with Gaara.


    Perhaps some lingering guilt, Tsunade suggested, although she didnt truly believe it herself, as when they had discussed the matter in her office after Naruto had dropped him off, he had seemed rather confident that hed be found not guilty. Although, admittedly, he was somewhat concerned as to where such a trial would take ce. Still, she reasoned it was possible that he would have a change of heart as she added, Perhaps, hearing what happed to Hayate caused him to think differently on his actions. Unfortunately, word has already spread of his involvement in Hayates murder, as well as to what happened to him in Wave.


    Naruto looked rather surprised by that stating, That was fast. How?


    Im not entirely sure, to be honest, Tsunade admit with a frown. But Im assuming that it leaked from the n Council. With Yuugao just disappearing, I had to tell them something, and so went with what Yoshino and I felt was the most usible exnation we had arrived at, which was that we suspected Kabuto used the attack on the graveyard as a distraction in order to meet with her, and inform her about the truth of how Hayate died.


    Naruto nodded, understanding that Tsunade had been put in a rtively difficult position since a viges head Anbu Captain doesnt just disappear, especially during an attack on the vige, without it raising some major questions.


    Tsunade sighed in annoyance at herself since she had been of the opinion Yuugao had left to kill Baki, so had not been willing to state a definitive intention behind her actions. But she imagined that hadnt stopped others which she exined, Although, I stated publicly that I wasnt sure what Yuugao hoped to achieve by her leaving the vige. I think most people, including myself, assumed she would use that information to kill whoever had murdered him. I did leave her some room for leeway stating that with the vige being in disarray from the attack, she may have felt the need to act immediately. Still


    She let the word hang in the air, making it clear that public opinion in the council room was likely that Yuugaos intentions had been to murder Baki, and as her lover turned his gaze to the ceiling, she noticed the muscles around his mouth twitching like he was fighting from frowning. She felt saddened at the idea that she had possibly disappointed him by not having more faith in his purple-haired lover. She nearly was about to issue an apology, but then he said, more to himself then to her, Why would somebody leak that though? When his eyes returned to her, she felt relieved as there didnt appear to be any sign of recrimination towards her in his questioning blue eyes.


    Although, not entirely sure herself, she had a theory which she shared, I think it may have been Umeko Akimichi. She smiled at her lovers face as the question, who, was practically written all over it so borated, She is the wife of Chouza Akimichi, and mother of Chouji. She also happens to be someone extremely vocal in their negative opinions on the matter of how lenient we have been towards viges which have attacked us. Im guessing that since as far as the council was concerned my exnation for where Yuugaos disappearance was more of a guess than anything else. Chouza treated it as such, and shared it with her. However, to Umeko, I think she saw it as an opportunity to set Yuugao up as some kind of martyr.


    Tsunade mentally kicked herself, since she had originally hoped to ease some of Narutos by taking them on her shoulders as well, but could see she was only adding to his concerns. She was about to drop the matter entirely, but before she coulde up with an appropriate means of doing so, he asked, What do you mean?


    Again, reprimanding herself that with her naked lover before her, there were other things more pleasant things she could be doing, she nevertheless exined, I believe Umeko aided the spread of the rumors, because she was sure that Yuugao would murder Baki, and we would in turn give her over to Suna. I think if we had, she would have used it as a means to stir up anti-Suna resentment, probably along the lines that we are constantly asked to turn the other cheek when we are wronged, while the one time one of us steps out of line, we cave to the pressure.


    Still, it would be kind of hard to make a case that Suna wouldnt have some justification in demanding we turn over the murderer of one of their councilors, Naruto stated Surely, she understands this wouldnt be the hill to try and make a stand on.


    I wouldnt be so sure My Love, Tsunade replied with a hint of caution, There are still a lot of people who hold a lingering resentment towards Suna for their betrayal. Umeko most of all, because her sister married a high-ranking member of the Hikifune n, which she thinks means her sister knew of the impending attack, and did nothing to warn us. Which considering how he died in the attack, and her sister failed to abide by the recall order that was issued to Leaf citizens living in Wind Country immediately afterwards as we sorted things out, likely means there is something to her im.


    I dont know, Naruto quickly said, I find it hard to believe a lot of people would be able to follow that order, since most citizens probably couldnt just extract themselves from their daily lives.


    Tsunade smiled gently at her lover, before replying, True, and it was a decree mostly meant for shinobi like Umekos sister, or our ambassador to Suna at the time, who also neglected to follow it although he imed it was an act of trust to leave his family in the Wind Gate Vige as a show of good faith in the shinobi that defied their orders to kill them. I believe it was Danzou who issued the order as war could have broken out, and they would make valuable hostages. So, he likely hoped Suna would move to grab them, and give him a means to go to war. But, Suna had put almost everything they had into their joint attack with Sound, and knew better then to provoke the vige while in such a weakened position. So, it was never really a decree meant to be followed by a few shop owners that may have made the move to Suna.


    Okay, so I can probably understand why Umeko would be so pissed at her sister, and feel slighted Naruto stated, But, to the point that she is trying to get ahead of a situation in order to best twist it and stir up sentiment against Suna.


    She didnt have to do much stirring Im afraid, Tsunade said disappointedly. This situation was like tearing off a scab to early, causing it to bleed all over again. The wound might not be as deep, but it is still there. To many, the fact that Baki has spent thest seven years free and clear, and couldnt be bothered toe forward to admit his role in the death of a grieving womans fiance brought the pain of those lost to the forefront for many in regards to what was truly was an act of treachery. To them, if Yuugao had killed Baki it would just be her delivering long overdue justice, and if we had turned her over to preserve the peace with Suna, they would have likely seen it as another betrayal, much as they saw us reestablishing the treaty between our viges without inflicting massive penalties on them.


    But it has been seven years, Naruto said growing agitated, causing Sakura to raise her head from his stomach to shoot an annoyed re Tsunades way, And, Suna helped us defend the vige several times since then. I understand it doesnt bring lost loved ones back, but dont they understand attacking them would only have increased the spread of the misery. Not just from the losses we would have suffered in a war, but in how much worse the conflicts they helped us with would have been without them.


    Tsunade was caught off-guard by the annoyance Naruto had allowed to enter her voice, although she understood it, even as she could also understand why some of Konohas citizens werent so willing to just live and let live. Yet, while she believed Naruto also did so as well, she imagined the reasons he was allowing his frustrations to show was because of all the alliances that Konoha needed to build in order to create the world their Family desired, Suna had seemed like the closest to being on a solid foundation, the current issues between him and Gaara notwithstanding, and hearing how some in Konoha were maneuvering themselves to chip away at that foundation, using the very incident he had worked so hard to solve in a way everyone could walk away happy, which while considering how it had seemingly worked out politically, she could understand why the news others had hoped for a less then happy oue would be like pressing on a raw nerve when factoring in what had be of Hayate, since she knew her lover had hoped to settle his need for vengeance as well. So, seeing that need for vengeance was still around in people without the benefit of the events having seemingly happened but days before, or having been the actual victims of them in the sense they had been the one to lose their lives, she wondered if Naruto was perhaps questioning his own dedication to the goal that they had set for themselves.


    She wasnt quite sure how to respond to his question, since she didnt want to sour the mood any further. Luckily, a recovered Sakura seemed to know what to do as she began kissing down his stomach, and upon reaching hisid cock gave the head of it a kiss just before swallowing it as she began to suck on it while moving her head back and forth. Naruto almost immediate rxed as he pushed himself back in the bed, and groaned as his cock began to respond. Still, he didnt drop the matter entirely as he looked towards Tsunade as he said, Now Im not so sure if I wasnt being a little paranoid before.


    What do you mean, my love? she asked, trying to retain herposure which proved harder as Sakura had maneuvered herself between Narutos legs as she began to demonstrate her own formidable skills as she began swallowing his now steel like rod all the way until her nose touched his pelvis, causing her to want to switch ces with her apprentice.


    Particrly since it was apparent that she was doing a far better job of causing Narutos worries to melt away then her efforts had. Still Naruto seemed a little hesitant to surrenderpletely to his pink-haired lovers efforts as he exined, What you were asking about that was bothering me. I was afraid that Gaara made Baki change his plea as kind of a middle finger to me. Like he was using his situation as a chance to show me how I should have handled Yugito. If that had been the case, I dont know it would have felt wrong. To ask Baki to give up all he worked for, just to make a point, especially since I honestly cant say I wouldnt have acted any differently in his shoes. It just feelswrong.


    Tsunade tried to remain serious, although it was hard to not allow a small smile to appear since although she knew Naruto was being serious, it was apparent he was struggling not to say how good he was currently feeling due to his cock being massaged by Sakuras throat. Still, she did understand why it would weigh heavily on Naruto, especially as if the matter had gone to court, she would be hard pressed not to agree that Baki hadnt acted as any other shinobi who had infiltrated a vige to coordinate with an ally, and had been discovered would have. Thus, she could see why the portion of him which understood Bakis actions, even if conducted with malice, hadnt necessarily been driven by that feeling and so had just been about stopping word of their operation from reaching Konohas leadership, would be conflicting with his desire to see the man who had indirectly hurt Yuugao punished. Especially, if the reason Baki had changed his intention to plead his case in a court was so Gaara could use it as an example of how sacrificing those closest to them may be required to build a world of peace. Yet, while she believed Narutos current feeling like he may have been paranoid was a result of her revealing some in Konoha had been positioning themselves to take advantage of the situation, and his not really being given a lot of time to think on the matter fully thanks in part to the kunoichi currently taking a break from deep throating him to stroke his saliva bathed cock, while she now did her best to swallow both his balls at the same time. Tsunade knew in time the feeling of doubt in Gaaras intentions would return, since regardless of the fact that elements in Konoha had wanted to use the potential fallout of Hayates murderer being killed in turn to their advantage, if Gaara was just using Baki as a sacrifice to silence them, while not truly believing he was guilty. Then that to Naruto would be no better than if he had just left Yugito to suffer in Kumo as the Kazekages weapon of sabotage simply because doing the right thing by her would be harder than doing nothing.


    Yet, as she began to grow concerned about the future ramifications of what she learned was bothering her lover, she instead nearly jumped out of her skin as a voice called from behind her, What the hell are you going on about? I leave for a little bit to get some water for everyone, and all the sudden youre talking about matters that should be discussed inoh lets say a Hokages office, not our bedroom. And since Sakuras mouth is currently filled at the moment, I imagine it was a certain Senju whos going about ruining the mood.


    Tsunade bristled slightly, although a part of her was thankful to Ino for refocusing them on what was truly important at the moment. Especially, as Sakura having returned to bobbing her head on his pole moaned her agreement, causing Naruto to bury his hands in her hair, and begin pumping himself into her mouth. She was about to turn and thank her fellow blonde, at least until the Yamanaka slid up behind her, and she felt something hard pressing into her rear. Ino grabbed one of her tits, and squeezing it said, Luckily, it looks like I brought the right equipment to get you focused on what really matters right now. Pleasing our lover.


    Tsunade was about to agree, but found herself moaning instead as Ino plunged the orange rubber copy of their lovers cock that she wore into her ass. She then quickly found herself pulled over so that she wasying on top of her fellow blonde who began punishing her ass, although as Tsunades mind began to grow nk she couldnt think of the rapid and repeated thrusts into her rear as anything but gifts of pleasure delivered from on high. The pleasure only grew more abundant, when her pussy began to tingle and she realized Naruto was hovering over her about to plunge his cock into her as well. She let out a pleased shriek when he buried himself fully into her with a single thrust, and began matching Inos pace so that they both reached deep within her at the same time. Tsunade allowed herself to be swept up in the pleasure, as it did the trick in causing the concerns of the outside world to be swept away. Which as her view of her lovers contented face was blocked by a view of her apprentices pussy as she squatted over her whiletching her lips to Narutos, she dived on in content in the knowledge that for the moment the rest of the world and its problems were so very far away.


    *********


    Seven Choumei stood at the edge of the undergroundke which she was in the process of turning into The Cavern. The underground love nest which was intended to rece The Grotto as a ce where Narutos lovers could gather, and y due to the Womens Bathing Association opening its doors to the non-initiated. While it was particrly meant for the kunoichi of Suna, who due to the arid environment that they normally found themselves in, no doubt to a special joy in ying in water. Although she didnt have any particr proclivities, she found that the more time that she spent there shaping it into a more fitting environment for the activities that were going to take ce, the more she found she favored it over the Den. An idea that she found strange at first, but as she thought over the matter came to believe that while both were located underground, an environment she actually enjoyed. The Den had a more artificial feel to it, as it felt almost like an apartmentplex located underground, while with the Cavern everything would be made of polished stone, outside of the furniture that would eventually be moved into it once she was done.


    A task she that was almost done with at least in regards to the main room, which housed the undergroundck and was what she imagined would serve as amunal area. There were still a few antechambers that she needed to work on where she imagined more individual or specific desires could be indulged in. But, having already finished the room that she intended to serve as a master bedroom, she was now putting the finishing touches on the Lake Room. Reaching out a hand towards the ceiling above her, which was located where the now highly polished stone floor, met the pool of water being filled by several waterfalls that ran along the sides of the cavern. The stone above her began to distort, as it looked to be wet which in truth was more an optical illusion since it was moving in such an unnatural way, as a section of ceiling began to pull away and formed into what looked like a drop of water, although it was still remarkably solid. As the drop gathered mass towards its base, the section still connected to the ceiling began to reshape itself so that it looked like a link of a chain connected to the ceiling. Which as the drop descended like gravity was pulling it towards the earth, more and more links formed until Seven raised a second hand towards it, at which point the head of the drop shifted and morphed into arge borate stone chandler from which severalyers of candles could be ced and lit.


    She took a moment to admire her handiwork, but her focus was called elsewhere by someone pping in appreciation. Turning towards the woman who was approaching, she couldnt tell if Kiyomi was being mocking or sincere as she said, I must say, I love what youve done with the ce.


    Deciding that it was in all likelihood probably a bit of both, she replied, You better, considering how much you are paying me.


    Kiyomi gave a yful smile as she said, Oh,e now. No need to pretend youre not enjoying yourself. Especially, considering certain artistic choices you have incorporated into your designs.


    She held up a hand towards several of the waterfalls, which were not pouring in through fountainheads Seven had shaped from the stone. Although, rather then more traditional animal designs, instead looked like ant heads poking through the stone, with the water falling from the opening between their spread mandibles. Sevens face scrunched up in annoyance as she asked with a hint of challenge in her tone, Whats wrong with them?


    Oh nothing, Kiyomi replied yfully, as her gaze shifted towards the back of the cavern, where on the rockface her sister had carved arge mural that featured all the Bijuu in their original forms, gathered almost reverently around a small human male, notably with the Seven Tails being the most prominent at the center directly before him. Although, due to the scale, it was difficult to make out any features on the human, Kiyomi imagined that even if she got closer it would be devoid of features, leaving the identity open to interpretation as either being the man who had brought them into being, or the one who a majority of them were currently bonded to.


    She spent a moment wondering what her father would think of what had be of his creations and the choices they had made. But she was pulled from her thoughts as Seven taking note that she wasnt dressed in the normal formal Kimono that she favored, but instead a shorter one that reached to about mid-thigh which she had paired with some knee-high stocking which she favored for battle, so asked, Whats this? Have you decided to finally get your hands dirty with the rest of us grunts?


    Indeed, Kiyomi replied, not taking offense at the question as she could hear the yful banter in her sisters tone. What choice did I have with you ying in the dirt, while the rest of us have been working? The Gold level shipments that piled up while we gathered in Ame are not going to guard themselves.


    Hey, Seven said, but let the matter drop with a smile.


    Kiyomi moved to a bar which Seven had raised and shaped from the ground, and pulling herself onto it crossed her legs as she added, Besides, Mito was being a pain about me hogging all the face time, so since shes better at dealing with the annoyances thate with being Kiyomi, I switched with her, but didnt want to just hang around the mansion feeling useless.


    Seven nodded in understanding, particrly since currently there was a dark depressing cloud hanging over the mansion in the form of their sister, Kukaku. A cloud which neither of them had much luck in dispelling, as despite having healed for the most part physically, although she had refused to regrow her missing arm, it seemed Kukaku still had a long way to go mentally. Not that she was willing to admit as much, or even that there was anything wrong. Still, it was apparent to all her sisters that something was, as she would avoid spending any time in their presence, outside of Yoruichi when she was in her cat form although even that smallfort tended to be hit or misstely, and any attempt by them to get her to open up to the rest of them resulted in her getting angry almost to the point of threatening violence. Which, in truth was a mild response when considering the reaction Naruto received upon trying to check on her, shortly after having dropped Yuugao and Kashike off with Tsunade following the events of Ruin. He had entered one of the mansions studies where Kukaku had retired with a bottle of booze, which as soon as Naruto had tried to thank her for what she had done in Ame, and ask her how she was doing, he had nearly eaten it as she had chucked it as his head, while shouting that she didnt need or want his concern. Naturally, Naruto had retreated to the other side of the door, where he tried to tell her again that he was grateful, and that he would be there for her if she needed anything. But, Kukakus reply had been to toss whatever was at hand at the door, while telling him where he could stick his gratitude and concern.


    I take it there has been no change in her mood, Seven said believing the silence hanging between them now was because they were both thinking about their sisters withdrawal from them.


    Yes, Kiyomi replied gravely, She getting worse. Shes even rejecting Yoruichi now, the only time she can even get close is when Kukakus too drunk to put up much of a fuss, but as soon as she sobers up, she reacts like she did with Naruto. The walls of the mansion are getting filled with holes, not to mention the valuable items she has destroyed due to her tendency to fling whatever happens to be within reach.


    Although, Kiyomis tone sounded primarily annoyed, Seven could tell she was masking just how worried she was. Mirroring her concern, she hesitantly suggested, Perhaps we should reach out to that man she was seeing. She seemed to be growing pretty fond of him. Maybe he can reach her.


    Seven could tell that Kiyomi had been about to spit out, which one, at least until she had rified who she was referring to. Yet to her surprise, her red-headed sibling grew furious as she said, That bastard doesnt care for her. It appears that he has been avoiding her attempts to meet up from even before we left for Ame, and has several floozies he regrly calls on including the whore that tried to murder Naruto.


    Seven was surprised that it appeared Kiyomi knew exactly who she had been talking about, since she couldnt even remember the mans name, but had recognized it had beening up more and more often when Kukaku had tried to brag about her sexual exploits. Feeling sad, for her sister she said, Oh, so youre saying there is nothing between them. Still maybe it might be worth it to try. At least in the short term


    Kiyomi frowned as she thought the matter over for a moment, before finally saying, I dont think so. Im not sure why hes been avoiding her, but Im sure that as damaged as she is now. Thest thing we want to do is let her near him. I feel that would only be ying into his hands.


    Feeling a little disheartened, Seven nodded in agreement before asking, So what do we do in the mean time?


    Kiyomi gave her a smile that she found rather reminiscent of the man who had brightened both their lives, as her nine-tailed sibling said, We as her sisters just keep trying to reach her. Between, the seven of us someone is bound to get past the walls she is trying to throw up. Dropping down off the bar, she added, In the meantime, there are deliveries to make. So, Im off.


    Seven waved as her sister burst into mes as she teleported away. Turning towards the mural she had made of her sisters all gathered around a single individual, she began to n how best to make it a representation of the future, rather than the past. Particrly, since if what Kiyomi feared about the man Kukaku was currently interested in proved true, then she imagined he would finally act when she hit rock bottom, and from the way she was currently acting, Seven imagined it would be long before she hit the point where hed begin showing interest again.


    *******


    Yuugao stood before arge window, which looked out onto the ocean which surrounded the Land of Waves. Although, dressed in only a skimpy robe, she wasnt concerned anyone would see her as due to the high-profile guests, all the rooms were equipped with reflective ss which prevented spies or paparazzi from getting the money shots that they thrived on. She took a sip from the wine ss that she held, and thought to herself, As far as punishments go, Ive had worse.


    Although truthfully, she wasnt really being punished since the Leaf was officially iming that although she had behaved recklessly due to her former fiancs involvement, she had ultimately been acting to save Bakis life. Even her infiltration of Suna was being, if not swept under the rug, was not being looked at too closely as far as what her intentions had been when setting it in motion since she had needed to detail exactly how she had bypassed the Sand Viges security, and as putting all the pieces into ce had taken years. Yet, truthfully, she imagined it was only because she had obviously had the means to infiltrate Suna in ce for years, which was why people seemed so inclined to ept the idea that the reason she had acted alone, and not informed her superiors that Kabuto had revived Hayate to kill Baki, was she had believed it would be the best way to bring the matter to a peaceful conclusion, as opposed to leading a team to neutralize him. Particrly since due to her personal interests in the matter, she stood almost no chance of leading or even being included on it.


    However, while publicly she had been cleared, in private almost as soon as Naruto had been told to leave moments after dropping her off in Tsunades office, and Kashike had left to check on Baki, who had been escorted to a hotel room while they waited for word back from Suna, Tsunade hadid into her with an expletive ridden diatribe about how selfish and boneheaded she had been, while admitting that she wasnt even sure if the reason she wasnt stripping her of her rank was due to her ce in Narutos ambition, or because she could understand her actions due to her also having lost a lover. But she did make it clear that she wouldnt tolerate any such behavior from her going forward, and suggested that before returning to duty she take the time to reflect on her actions, as well as in regards to the future they were working towards.


    Yuugao had taken the suggestion to heart, not even bothering to return to the Hidden Eddy Inn as she had informed Tsunade then and there she would head to the Whirling Tides Manor. She had also closed off her mark, and was pleased that Naruto had seemed to understand that she needed some time alone to process what had transpired. She felt a slight frown threaten to appear, as she wished certain other parties had also understood that, as she was currently sharing the room that Tsunami had set aside for her. But, as she knew her actions had also ended up reflecting poorly on Kashike in the eyes of her superiors, she epted that a part ofing to terms with what had happened in Ruin meant giving her fellow Anbu the chance to vent. Particrly as the Whirling Tide Manor was extremely busy, so there wasnt an abundance of free rooms to spare, due to it being near the end of summer, so she had been fortunate that Tsunade had the foresight to send a messenger hawk ahead to inform Tsunami she had beening. Having just returned from one of the hotels highly rated spas, and at least for the moment having some time to herself, she decided it was time to have the talk she had been dreading.


    Yuugao moved to ce her ss down on a small end table, before returning to the window where she looked at her reflection and taking a deep breath activated her foxmark. Almost immediately she felt buoyed by the confronting presence of the other women that wore it. Although, she wasnt too surprised to find Kashike wasnt currently among them. She closed her eyes, and smiled softly as the darkness behind her eyes lightened momentarily as she felt the man, she loved appear behind her.


    She opened her eyes, and turned to face him, and felt a bit sad uponying eyes on him. Naruto, looked concerned at this as he asked, Is everything alright?


    He reached out to cup her face, and although all she wanted to do was let him, she stepped back out of his reach causing a frown to appear on his face. While struggling to not look like she was on the verge of tears, she said, I before I say anything else, I I just ask that you please dont think of that creature you fought as Hayate. That wasnt the man who I knew or loved.


    I know, Naruto replied his frown deepening at her use of the word love, although he maintained hisposure as he continued, I cant pretend to know what it must have felt like to be him, to be brought back and to feel as you had lost everything that mattered to you.


    I can, Yuugao said, nearly letting out a sob, That is why I dont think I can continue on as one of your lovers. Although, she hadnt known what to expect from Naruto when she told him of her decision, she would admit to being a little disappointed as his face lost the frown in order to be almost devoid of any reaction. Still, she carried on, exining, I do love you, but I I cant be the woman you need me to be. Because, if I if I lost you to some other plot or scheme, I know Id be just as monstrous, and how could you trust your ambition to someone who would so easily surrender to revenge.


    So, you believe the best way to prevent that from happening is to cut ties with me yourself, Naruto asked his voice strangely calm of emotion.


    I know it sounds silly, Yuugao replied starting to babble a little hoping to prevent him from responding and questioning her resolve by filling the void between them with words, But, Ive decided it has to be this way. I also n to resign my position as soon as Tsunade finds a suitable recement. Itll probably be after the Chunin Exams, since Toka would probably make a suitable re


    Yuugao, Naruto said sternly causing her to stop, Drop your robe and press your breasts against the ss. She shivered slightly at the tone he used which he normally adopted when using the voice, and almost without thinking did as he instructed as she opened her robe and allowed it to slip from her shoulders to pool around her feet. Once naked before him, she turned to face the window bending at the waist so she could press her breasts against the window. Which as soon as they touched the ss, she pulled them away from the cold surface before pressing the now hardened nubs that had raised up into it once more. Realizing what she was doing, she looked back over her shoulder, and despite it being thest thing she wanted to say, intended to reiterate why they should stop. However, before she could, he asked, Now, why did you do that?


    Naruto couldnt help a self-satisfied smirk, as although Yuugao frowned at his question, with her breasts still pressed to the ss while her ass was sticking out, it came off as a pout even as she answered, Because you asked me to.


    Commanded, would be the word that Id use, Naruto informed her.


    Yuugao gasped as she straightened and faced him able to move despite not receiving amand to do so. Her lover smiled happily at her as he cupped her face, and said contently as she pressed it firmly against his palm, Thats right Yuugao Uzuki, you are mine, and have been since the moment we first connected. If you must know, of all my lovers, I fear you crossing the line the least, because while you may have run up to it a few times. Youre more aware of where it is then most. Besides, if you are so afraid of what youll be should something happen to me, then there is no better ce for you then by my side making sure nothing does.


    Yuugao basking in the warmth his hand was filling her with, nodded with tears in her eyes, which he swiped away before pulling her into a kiss which instantly lit a fire within her. A fire that Yuugao, knew of only one way to put out, so wanting him to be as naked as her, pulled the white t-shirt, with Uzumaki n symbol he was wearing over his head, only separating her lips from his only for the brief period where the material passing over them had made it necessary. Once he was free of it, she tossed the shirt away, as she opened a gap between their bodies, while still kissing him hungrily so she could undo the orange shorts that she wore. Her actions became slightly frantic as she became frustrated, that she was dexterous enough that she could easily and blindly open any of number of pouches she may wear on her person during a mission and pull out its contents, all while under enemy fire, yet the simple act of sliding a tab through an opening was currently beyond her capability. Yet, eventually her perseverance paid off, and making up for lost time she dropped to her knees as she violently ripped the front of his shorts open and was nearly pped up under her chin as his dick sprang free of its confines.


    She helped him step free of his shorts, before tossing them somewhere off into the distance as well before taking a moment to stare almost reverently at the rod standing up and out from his body. Although, both sets of her lips were drooling to swallow it, she went with the pair that was closest as she wrapped a hand around the base and began sucking on what remained. She used her other hand to tease her pussy, as Naruto leaned back to groan in satisfaction as she worked her mouth back and forth over his rod, while stroking the half she couldntfortably take. Although, soon her mouth was filled with an almost intoxicating vor, it only made her thirsty for more, so she abandoned her sucking, in favor of wrapping both hands around his turgent manhood. She then began twist them ever so slightly, as she spread her saliva over the man meat, as she tried to coax it into spilling its creamy load. Knowing every bit helped, she gave a pleading look up to her lover, as she said, Naruto, let me drink your cum. Please, let me have it.


    Fuck, Naruto groaned finding the sight of her on his knees pleading for his cum almost as pleasant as the hands currently sliding over his pole. As soon as he felt the telltale tingle, he informed her, Alright, get ready for it.


    Yuugao open her mouth, as she aimed it so that it would hit the back of her throat, not wanting to miss a drop. Which became much harder once the first burst of cum found the mark, and she suddenly climaxed, but managed to make sure the vast majoritynded where it was supposed to. Which she showed to Naruto as she again looked up at him, and disyed the puddle of jizz residing inside her mouth. She swirled it about with her tongue, enjoying the look of lust it inspired in Narutos eyes, before she then closed her mouth to swallow. She let out a soft moan as doing so caused another small orgasm, which she enjoyed as she wrapped her mouth around his cock again to keep it hard and ready for her.


    Confident that it had no intention of deting on her, she stood and turned back towards the window assuming the pose Naruto had asked her to previously. He knew exactly what she wanted, as he stepped up behind her and plunged his dick into her, crushing her womb and causing her to cry out loud enough that she wasnt confident the sound proofing of the room would be enough. Not, that Yuugao cared, nor would she if the window had suddenly fallen away to reveal them to the world, although she was d it was there as she found the cool ss pleasantly contrasted with the scalding hot rod rampaging within her.


    Which she was deprived of all too soon when Naruto pulled out of her, causing her to cry out in frustration as she had felt close to release. He then spun her around so he could kiss her hungrily, as he lifted one of her legs so he could plunge back inside her. Yuugao broke the kiss as she cried out happily before reestablishing it as she wrapped her arms around his neck, while trying to meet his thrusts with her own. As she could only weakly do so, Naruto lifted her other leg and taking possession of her ass, spun her from the window as he began rapidly pulling her into his thrusts. Yes, fuck me! she shouted wildly as she shook her head about causing her hair to wave about her as she began to experience a near continuous series of small climaxes which promised something massive was on the horizon.


    Naruto easily continued the assault on her pleasure center, even as he moved her towards the rooms single bed. He set her down, and sealed his lips to hers, before angling his head down to take one of her nipples into his mouth, he sucked on it hungrily, before shifting his attention to the other, which he nipped with his teeth causing her to hiss pleasantly, as the pleasure she felt increased almost tenfold due to her tightening around him as a result, which was when he put his full focus back into destroying her womb. The back of her knees were resting on his elbows, keeping her spread wide for him as he began to batter through thest citadel, and clutched herself to him as he try to pull away while shouting, Im cumming!!!


    Yuugao cried out, Yes, give it to me!!! Which he did, as he pumped her womb full of his essence. The world faded away into a white oblivion of warmth which seemed to fill her entire being, and when she came too, she was staring into oceans of blue as the man she loved stared down contently at her. A new warmth filled her as he said, I love you, Yuugao Uzuki.


    And youre mine, Naruto Uzumaki, she replied leaning up to kiss him tenderly. When their lips parted, she smiled as she still felt the kunoichi tamer still inside her had yet to be satisfied, so said, Theres still one spot in need of loving before Im going to be satisfied.


    Naruto returned her smile, as he replied, Oh believe me. Before tonight is done, youll find that I have visited each spot multiple times. He pulled himself out of her, and then used his arms to push on her knees so she angled her hips up further, exposing her backdoor which pushed his well-lubricated cock against and easily slipped inside. Yuugao moaned contently as her passage spread for the invader, who slowly began working it back and forth within her. Yuugao cooed pleasantly before pulling Naruto into passionate kiss, which as their tongues danced with each other, she vowed that neither gods nor demons or anything else the world threw at them would ever steal her happiness again.


    While outside the room, Kashike closed the door resigning herself to having to wait a little while longer before she cut.


    Next Chapter: The Chunin Exams: The Sequel


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    Authors Note: Hello everyone, first let me thank everyone that takes the time to read and review. I really appreciate them, as they keep me motivated. Also, I would like to wish you all, a Happy New Year. Heres hoping 2021, is better for a lot of people. Also, I really, really need to thank and apologize to my readers who enjoy the Pride and The Promise. Ive probably been promising to produce a new chapter for those for a couple years now. Im sorry it took so long, and were almost there I promise.


    Getting to my update schedule, well at present it I n to next release the Mabui Limelight chapter next, which is about 60% done. Next, I may work on a short LBB chapter, but it will not revolve around Samui team. Instead, it will probably feature Gai, and a certain red-head that was introduced during this arc. I was quite pleased some people expressed interest in seeing these two, since it was one of the reasons that I introduced her. But I couldnt really think of a good ce to put it in the main story without breaking the flow. While I had nned to add it in an omake to the end of this chapter, I kind of fell behind on my pace and didnt want to dy it for something that ultimately ended up on the cutting room floor so to speak.


    But, once these two chapters are done, I will be putting Eroninja on the backburner for a bit as I focus on either The Pride or the Promise. Currently, Im leaning towards Pride, but that may change when the timees. Ill probably stick with these until the current arc in the Pride is done at which point, it will be time for the Chunin Exams arc to take ce. So, again thank you all. I hope the current chapter proves to have been worth the wait, and wish you all a Happy and Blessed, 2021, So, until next time, Take Care! Sincerely, The Lemon Sage.