Chapter 6 Meeting The Fox Clan, And A Talk With Hiashi Hyuga.

Tomorrow morning...

"Good morning, Naruto-kun," said Hinata, who had just awoken and noticed Naruto reading a book. As she approached him, she glanced at the book and saw that it covered the basics of Fuinjutsu.

"Oh! Good morning, Hinata," replied Naruto, now turning his attention to Hinata, who had just woken up. Curiously, Hinata asked, "Naruto-kun, are you reading about the basics of Fuinjutsu?"

"Yes, Hinata. My clan was actually known for this—Fuinjutsu. By today, I plan to master some basics and, by tomorrow, create a simple storage seal," Naruto replied, prompting Hinata to gain even more respect for him.

After responding to her, Naruto resumed his study, pondering, 'I see. Fuinjutsu seems to rely heavily on imagination combined with complex subjects similar to mathematics. It also appears that calligraphy plays an equally important role in it.'

After an hour...

Hinata called out in a loud voice, "Naruto-kun, I finished making breakfast. Hurry up and eat it," as she placed the food on the plates and filled the glasses with water.

"You didn't have to go that far. Also, sorry, I totally lost track of time," Naruto said, apologizing for losing track of time. He thought, 'Although just an hour passed, I didn't expect her to prepare the food. I guessed we would cook it together, but it seems there's no need for that.'

Hinata smiled at him, her respect and admiration for Naruto growing even more as she watched him balance his studies and their daily life.

After they had breakfast, Naruto and Hinata headed to the training ground where they had planned to rendezvous with the Hokage before visiting the fox clan. Shortly after they arrived, Hiruzen appeared with a new Anbu member alongside him.

'That silver hair! It must definitely be Hatake Kakashi,' Naruto thought as he observed the new Anbu accompanying Hiruzen.

"Good morning, children. We are here to finally visit the holy land of the fox clan. Also, my Anbu, Dog, will be accompanying us on this small journey," Hiruzen said, introducing Kakashi and mentioning the fox clan.

Hearing this, Kakashi was puzzled. What were they talking about? The fox clan? Earlier that morning, Hiruzen had brought him along, mentioning something about visiting some children and helping them with something. But hearing about the fox clan, Kakashi figured it must be related to a summoning contract. How in the world did Naruto get one?

"Good morning, Jiji. It's nice to meet you, Dog. I am Uzumaki Naruto," said Naruto, with Hinata greeting both and introducing herself in the same manner. Kakashi nodded in acknowledgment.

"Alright. Then let's depart soon. Naruto, can you do it?" Hiruzen asked. Naruto nodded and proceeded to form the necessary hand signs—dog, bird, monkey, and ram. Channeling his chakra, he slammed his hand onto the ground.

Poof!

"Oh, Naruto. You finally summoned me, huh? Hmm. And it seems there's a new face here as well. Although not that familiar, he too seems formidable. So, he'll be joining us, I assume?" Kitsuhiko remarked, acknowledging Naruto's summoning and noticing Kakashi's presence.

'I see. It's truly remarkable, having a summoning contract with such a formidable creature at such a young age. He's as talented as Sensei, it seems,' Kakashi thought, impressed by Naruto's abilities.

"Yes, Kitsuhiko. He'll be accompanying us as my bodyguard, though I doubt I really need one," Hiruzen replied, engaging in small talk with Kitsuhiko. Kitsuhiko chuckled in agreement, "Haha! That's indeed true. Alright, everyone, stay close together."

Following Kitsuhiko's instructions, they huddled together. Within moments, they found themselves transported away from Konoha to a forest-like area—the unmistakable holy land of the fox clan.

"Amazing," Hinata muttered, marveling at the breathtaking scenery of this grand place, truly befitting the reputation of the formidable fox clan's holy land.

'This is indeed very interesting,' Kakashi thought, observing as they all took in the beauty of their surroundings. After a brief moment, a fox approached.

"It's nice to meet you, dear humans. I am Kitsuhiko's younger sister, Yukihime. Our father and the elder of the fox clan have been awaiting your arrival," Yukihime said, introducing herself to the group.

Observing Yukihime, Naruto thought, 'I see. Unlike Kitsuhiko, she appears to be quite gentle and calm.' Politely, he responded, "It's nice to meet you, Yukihime-san. I am Uzumaki Naruto, the summoner for the Fox clan, and these are my companions for today's journey."

"I see. It's nice to meet you all. For now, please follow me. And Nii-san, you may continue with your training," Yukihime said, gesturing for them to follow her. Leading the way, they soon arrived at the inner part of the forest, where two mighty and powerful foxes awaited them. One appeared elderly, while the other seemed to be an adult.

"Father and Elder, I have brought the summoner and his companions to you. I shall take my leave for now," Yukihime announced before departing. With her exit, the adult fox introduced himself, "It's nice to meet you, dear humans. I am Kitsuho, the chief of this fox clan. Naruto, I believe you to be our new summoner, correct? It's finally a pleasure to meet you in person. But before we proceed, let us hear a few words from our Elder, Kogitsune-sama."

All attention turned to the elder fox, who remained silently, his gaze fixed on the group. Despite his numerous scars, his presence exuded wisdom and an intimidating aura, prompting a sense of reverence from those gathered.

"Hmm, Naruto, was it?" Kogitsune's voice resonated with wisdom as he addressed Naruto. "You harbor great potential within yourself, yet it seems you are still navigating the complexities of the world. Despite the challenges you may encounter, trust in your journey. I have no doubt you will overcome them and succeed. Remember to honor the name of our fox clan for the power you possess," he advised, inwardly acknowledging Naruto as the reincarnation of Lord Ashura, but recognizing his even greater insights than Lord Ashura.

After imparting his wisdom, Kogitsune retired to his chambers for rest, leaving the group to explore the holy land of the fox clan. Their main task was to familiarize themselves with all the foxes prepared for battle. Once they completed their mission, they used reverse summoning to return to Konohagakure.

As they arrived, Hiruzen remarked, "That was quite an enjoyable trip, wasn't it? The foxes were exceptionally kind to us."

"Yes, Lord Hokage. With this, Naruto-kun has undoubtedly become one of the strongest shinobi in the village," Hinata said with pride, reveling in her close friendship with Naruto.

"Yes, Hinata," Hiruzen nodded approvingly, his gaze shifting towards the Anbu accompanying them. "Now with this, Naruto's strength surpasses even that of my Anbu. Dog, you must keep up with your training to avoid being surpassed by these children."

"Yes, Lord Hokage. I will do my utmost," Kakashi replied, his thoughts racing as he resolved to push himself harder. 'I never imagined being compared to a kid, let alone being deemed inferior. I must focus on mastering my Mangekyo Sharingan. If I can use that space-time technique at least fifteen times, the benefits will be significant.'

Hiruzen turned his attention to Naruto, emphasizing the importance of individual strength. "Although you're strong for your age, Naruto, don't let arrogance hinder your growth. It's crucial to continually improve your own strength, not just rely on existing abilities."

"Yeah, Jiji," Naruto affirmed, determination shining in his eyes. "I'll give it my all."

With a nod from Hiruzen, the group dispersed, each member heading towards their respective duties. Naruto and Hinata made their way to the academy, while Kakashi returned to his Anbu responsibilities. Meanwhile, Hiruzen found himself grappling with one of his greatest challenges—the escalating tensions within the Uchiha Clan.

As the situation continued to deteriorate, Hiruzen knew that conflict was becoming increasingly inevitable.

After their day at the academy...

"Naruto-kun, are we heading to my home today?" Hinata inquired, already aware of their plans from previous discussions and her father's mention of it. She couldn't shake the sense of urgency behind the invitation.

"Yes, Hinata," Naruto confirmed, understanding the weight of their conversation. It was about the revelation he had shared with her father, a matter of utmost importance.

"Is it about... that?" Hinata hesitated, recalling Naruto's serious demeanor during his conversation with her father, hinting at the gravity of his plans.

"Yeah, it's about that," Naruto affirmed, noting Hinata's concern. Her worry was palpable as she expressed her fears about the danger he might face.

"Don't worry, Hinata," Naruto reassured her, his voice filled with determination. "I won't let anything happen to me. Your father and everyone else are with me. I promise there won't be any casualties on our side."

Hinata nodded, offering a small smile, though a hint of worry lingered in her eyes. Despite her trust in Naruto, the thought of him in harm's way weighed heavily on her mind. They shifted their conversation to lighter topics as they made their way to the Hyuga's Mansion.

Upon arrival, they were greeted by the guards, who informed them that Lord Hiashi awaited Naruto for an important discussion. With a nod, Naruto and Hinata entered the mansion, prepared for the deep conversation that awaited them.

"Ah, Naruto, you're here," Hiashi greeted as he motioned for Hinata to join her younger sister, Hanabi, for some playtime. Hinata nodded and bowed before leaving, leaving Naruto and Hiashi alone.

"So, how did the investigation go?" Naruto inquired, taking a leisurely sip of the coffee, brewed to perfection by the Hyuga clan.

"It was just as we feared," Hiashi responded gravely. "About ten of them. And there was another matter too, regarding..."

Naruto nodded understandingly. "I see. Ten, you say? And what about the other issue?"

"Even after hearing all that, your expression remains unchanged," Hiashi remarked, observing Naruto closely. "You truly are something, Naruto. As for the other matter, it seems..."

"I see. So, there's both good and bad news," Naruto mused thoughtfully. "But I have faith in our plan. And how are things progressing with the elders?"

"That is something I can manage, but it will take some time," Hiashi replied with a hint of assurance. "So, when do we make our move?"

"We'll strike the moment the victim becomes too greedy and falls into a trap I didn't even set," Naruto declared confidently, finishing his coffee and preparing to depart. Before leaving, he glanced at Hiashi, his thoughts echoing, 'I've revealed much of my capabilities to Hiashi Hyuga, but it's a necessary sacrifice for the greater goal.'

"For now, I'll take my leave and do today's training with Hinata," Naruto announced, to which Hiashi nodded in agreement before Naruto departed. As he left the room, he made his way towards where Hinata and Hanabi were playing, gently pulling Hinata away from her sister, earning a cute pout from Hanabi.

After a rigorous training session, they returned to their respective houses, had dinner, and settled in for the night.

Days passed in the rhythm of Naruto's training, steadily improving alongside Hinata. Six months flew by, and Hinata had already reached the level of a chunin.