Chapter 9: Revelations

Hinata was shock to see Naruto standing over her. He extended his hand and gave her a smile of assurance, from that point she knew that he wouldn't harm her. She took his hand and used as support. Hinata stood, but wobbled a little before Naruto grabbed.

"Are you ok Hinata?" Naruto asked with concern.

"I'm fine Naruto-kun, just a little weak that's all. By the way, where am I?" Hinata asked out of curiosity.

"You're at my house Hinata. Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Howaito Naiya." Naiya extend her hand for Hinata to shake.

Hinata took the ladies hand and shook it, "Nice to meet you Naiya-san."

"I remember hearing your name from Gai-san. He said that you were known as the Seal Mistress. If I'm here then that means …" Hinata was cut of by Naruto.

"I ask Naiya to remove the seal from your head" Naruto answered.

Hinata looked at Naruto with sad eyes, "Naruto-kun, thanks but I can't let this be done. It would be going against my family. Besides, it is better for everyone this way."

Naruto looked at Hinata and shook his head, "Here I thought you were smart but you dumber and weaker than I thought."

Hinata eyes went wide. Naruto's words had shocked and hurt at the same time. The one person she cared for now saw her as everyone else did. She put her head down, "I'm sorry Naruto-kun."

Naruto grabbed her and threw her against the wall, this frightened Hinata. He looked deep into her eyes, "Tell me Hinata, is this what you wanted? Do really think that it's better that your father disowned you? Do you think it's for the better that you are now a slave in your own home? Do think it's better to have a division in your family, Huh?" Naruto punched the wall next to Hinata's head, "Tell me got damn it!" Naruto screamed.

Tears started to fall out Hinata's eyes. She was scared and confused by Naruto's actions. Naruto saw her fear and tears; he immediately let her go causing her to fall to the floor. He looked away from her then in a low tone, "Hinata, you're too nice of a person. If I learned anything is that when you are too nice people will walk all over you. I know you're not happy and I know you don't think having that seal is for the best. So tell me Hinata what do you want?" Naruto asked.

Hinata thought about for a minute. She stood up and wiped her tears, "I want to be strong…strong like you Naruto-kun."

Naruto chuckled at that, "You think I'm strong? Yea I can beat a few people and I can…"

Hinata quickly cut him off, "That's not what I meant. I mean…you never gave up even when people would put you down. You stand up for what you believe in and you are willing to fight for it. The strength that you have isn't physical, it's more in you're attitude, to be more precise it is you confidence and utter belief in yourself that makes you strong. So when I say I want to be strong like you that's what I meant."

Naruto looked at Hinata with a serious expression." Then why not just stand up for what you believe in? Hinata, things aren't going to change if all you do is wish them too. You want to make a change you got to do it yourself. Hinata, you're strong then you think. I think what's holding you back is that you're trying to live up to everyone's expectations but your own."

Hinata thought about what Naruto was saying. She hated her lack of confidence but she also hated the division in the Hyuuga clan. She always wanted to change the Hyuuga clan and become Naruto's girlfriend. Seeing that the latter was out of the option, she decided then and there to focus on the former. Hinata realized what Naruto did for her. He wasn't trying to be mean, he wasn't trying to insult her, no he was trying to make her see that crying all day about her family issues wasn't going change it, action would.

Hinata hugged Naruto who was a bit shocked by the embrace, "Thank you, Naruto-kun. I think that removing the seal would be the first step to change. I don't know how I'm going to change my family but this is a start."

"Hinata, I told Neji that if I became Hokage I would change the Hyuuga. That isn't going to happen, but by helping you, I would be helping just a little to make that change. Hinata, if the Hyuuga clan is to change then it will be on you to do so." Naruto told Hinata.

"I know." Hinata responded.

"Well if you guys are done with all that touchycrap about making changes, can we get on with removing the seal? This isn't an easy process by no means you know." Naiya said tapping her foot impatiently.

"Naiya-san, will it be painful and how long will it take?" Hinata asked.

"Well, I'm not going to lie it might hurt. I don't know because you're the first that I remove the seal from. It isn't easy to do but it is removable. Also, the process will take anywhere from 3-7 hours. Follow me Hinata, I will take you to one of my sealing rooms." Naiya motioned Hinata too follow.

Hinata did but looked back when Naruto didn't follow, "Naruto-kun, aren't you coming?"

"No Hinata, I will wait out her until the process is done. I got word from my clone via radio, after my clone left Tsunade's office; I was informed that she put together a team consisting of everyone from our graduating class and Neji's squad to go look for you. When you're done having the seals removed, we are going to meet them at the border. I will inform them of my actions and we will devise a plan from there. I'm sure they will go along, Kiba, Shino, and Neji especially." Naruto flashed Hinata a reassuring smile.

Hinata nodded in understanding and followed Naiya, who told her to hurry.

Naiya and Hinata enter her seal room. On the floor was a seal that Hinata never seen before. The room was slightly illuminated; it reminded her of being in a cave with a torch. Naiya went to the far end of the room and came back to where Hinata was standing. She had, what looked like blood in a valve, some other containers with various colors of dye, and a syringe.

"Ok Hinata, lay down in the middle of that seal." Hinata did as she said.

Naiya placed the items on the floor out side of the seal. She grabbed the blood and syringe. She place the blood down and a green liquid down next to Hinata. She took the syringe and grabbed Hinata's arm, "Hinata, I'm going to need your blood. The seal is tied to you by you blood so in order to free it I'm going to mix you blood with the hawk's blood over there. I'm sure you're aware that hawks blood is used for the seal. I'm also sure that who ever placed the seal on you liquefied a leaf and then drew the cage seal. They then used the hawk's blood, mixed with your own, and traced over the marking in the middle of the seal."

"Yes, but when my father did the hand seals to activated it I felt a searing pain in my body, then I passed out." Hinata informed her.

"The hawk's blood represents the caging of the bird. The thing with this seal is that it's connected to your eyes and brain. The seal is a mark of servitude and slavery. I don't know who designed it, but whoever did didn't want anyone to know the secrets of removing it. It took me nearly five years of studying the caged seal when I was a Leaf nin to figure out how to remove it." Naiya informed Hinata.

Naiya place a small dab of the liquefied leaf on her index and middle finger. She traced over the seal with the liquefied leaf. Next, she then proceeded to mix Hinata's blood with the hawk's blood. She did the same process with the liquefied leaf that she did with the hawk's blood.

Naiya stepped out side of the seal and drew a mark at the top of the seal. She then walked to opposite side where Hinata's feet faced and drew another mark. She did this also on the right and left of Hinata. Naiya stepped back in the seal and formed numerous hand seals. When she finished, her hand started glowing blue, she then placed her hand on Hinata's head. A flame erupted from Hinata's seal, causing her to scream in pain.

"Now that the easy part is over, it's time for the hard part." Naiya formed a couple more hand seals. When she finished the seal underneath her and Hinata started glowing sky blue. The seal mistress stepped outside of the seal and formed more handle seals. When she finished, she extended her arms lateral, she then dropped down on her knees and touched the marking outside of the seal at the base of Hinata's head. The seal started glowing, then a circular-line connected to formed around the seal Hinata was under, connecting the markings that she drew.

She then sat Indian style and the brought her hands together as if she was praying.

"focus Naiya, if you loose control for an instant you can damage her eyes and/or her brain. Damn, I should have gotten some sleep first before doing this." Naiya, who was looking at Hinata smirked, "I wonder if that idiot knows that she fix her clan wasn't the only thing she wanted. It's too bad that he already has someone, because those two would make a cute couple." Naiya cleared her thoughts and focused on the task at hand.

6 hours and 34 mins later…

Naruto was taking a nap on the couch. Naiya walked into the living room. Naruto heard her foot steps and sat up, stretching his arms out, "You've been in there forever, is everything ok?"

"Yes, the removal was a success. I finished the process of removing the seals ten minutes ago. It took me another ten minutes to draw and activate the gravity seals I placed on her. She's sleep right now, she passed out after the removal process due to the pain. She has a scare on her forehead shaped like the seal but in two weeks it will seem as if she never had a mark there." She informed Naruto.

"That's good. How long will she be out?" Naruto asked.

"I don't know she might be out for an hour or 2 days." Naiya replied.

"Well Naruto I completed my part of the bargain."

"Yea I know I owe you right?" Naruto asked.

"Yep. However, I don't know what I want right now but, when I figure it out I will tell you. You will have to get it no questions asked." She replied.

"Ok, lead the way to Hinata; I should be heading with her to Wind Country's border."

Naiya led Naruto to where Hinata was. Before he picked her up, Naruto summoned Gamakichi, "Hey Naruto, give me candy if you want me to do something."

"I don't have time for that Gamakichi. I need you to deliver a message to Tsunade and Tsunade only, got it. She'll give you the candy you want when you get there ok." Naruto said to the frog.

"Is that all?" The young frog asked.

"Yes, that's all." Naruto informed the frog. Naruto tied the scroll on Gamakichi's back, the frog headed out of the room and found his way out of the house.

Naruto then picked up Hinata and placed her over his shoulder, "Thanks Naiya, I'll be back to visit when I can." In a poof of smoke Naruto disappeared. Naiya walked out of the room closing the door behind her.

11 pm Somewhere in River Country…

Hinata woke up to see that she was no longer at Naiya's place. She looked around an immediately concluded that she was in a hotel. She went to touch the area where the seal was at to feel a slight pain withdrawing her hand quickly.

Naruto walked in the room seeing Hinata up, "Hey, how are you feeling?"

"My head hurts a little. Where are we?" Hinata asked.

Naruto responded, "We're in River Country now. We're actually about 4 hours away from the border. We will leave about 2-3 in the morning. There we will meet up with everyone. I have a plan to cover up your seal being removed."

"What is the plan?" Hinata asked.

"Well I sent Gamakichi, my frog summon, to Tsunade. He will inform her of what I did and when we return we rush you to the hospital immediately. We're going to keep you out of the sight of you family for about two weeks, then you will return to the Hyuuga compound. If I were you I would get use to those gravity seals." Naruto stated.

"I have seals? No wonder I had to struggle to sit up." Hinata said to herself out loud.

"Well Hinata this is the seal to activate and deactivate the seals. You can also elevate or lower the seals with the same hand seal. When you want to elevate or lower the gravity just think of the level you want to lower it or increase it to. Right now you're on level one, but you should get use to this level fairly easy." Naruto explained to Hinata.

"Oh, ok. Well Naruto-kun, I'm still kind of sleepy, so I'm going to go back to sleep. Again, thank you Naruto-kun; I will not fail you." Hinata said to the man she loved.

Naruto looked directly in her eyes, "Don't worry about failing me Hinata, the only person you can fail is yourself. Get some sleep ok."

Hinata turned over and went to sleep. Naruto laid back in the recliner chair that he was sitting in and closed his eyes, drifting off into sleep.

7 am, the border of Wind/River Country…

Sasuke and company arrived at the border. They waited for the Sand siblings as well as the person who kidnapped Hinata. Sakura looked at Neji who had his Byakugan on, "Neji, do you see anything?"

"No, not yet. Wait I think I see someone coming." Neji replied.

"Really, can you see who it is?" Tenten asked.

"Yes, it's one…two…no three people. Looks like Gaara and his family has arrived." Neji informed the group.

"This is going to be so troublesome, I just can feel it."

The sand trio started to come into everyone's view. After a few minutes, they approached the group. Gaara was the first to speak, "Why did Hokage-dono send out all of you?"

"Actually were on mission to retrieve Hyuuga Hinata. She was kidnapped and the kidnapper informed us to meet here." Lee answered Gaara.

"I see, she did this so we could help you out just in case something goes wrong." Kankarou stated.

"Nothing will go wrong, that much I can promise you" Naruto informed Kankarou.

"Well if it isn't Uzumaki Naruto, how long has it been Naruto?" Temari asked.

"It's been about a year, when I had Hayami with me." Naruto replied.

"Yes it has, so it's true that you're fighting for the Leaf. How much are they paying you?" Temari asked with smile.

"More then they want to." Naruto replied.

Everyone was interrupted by a man appearing in all black, wearing a mask covering his face. He had Hinata on his shoulder. Kiba was about to rush him when Shikamaru shadow held him back.

"Attacking the enemy when he has something we want is foolish. You know better fool." Shikamaru scolded Kiba.

"He has Hinata, we have to get her back. Come on Neji, you agree with me, right?" Kiba stated.

"Yes I agree but we don't have to worry, Hinata isn't in any harm from what I can tell. The only question is why?" Neji stated with a smirk.

"That's what I'm trying to figure out as well." Shino said.

Shikamaru shrugged, "It's obvious but it's too troublesome to explain."

Sasuke spoke looking dead at the man in the mask. "Well Naruto, care to explain." Before anyone could turn around, a kunai came flying from Sasuke's hand and pierced Naruto in the heart. Everyone, with the exception of Shino, Neji, and Shikamaru eyes went wide.

"What the hell did you do that for Sasuke!" Ino screamed at the Uchiha.

She, like everyone else was surprise to see Naruto disappear in a poof of smoke.

"What, you mean we've been traveling with a Kage Buushin, where the hell is the real Naruto?"

"Ask Naruto, he's standing over there with Hinata." Neji replied. Ino, Sakura, Tenten, Lee, Chouji were surprised, the sand siblings wore no expressions that betrayed their emotions.

Naruto pulled of his mask, "I should have known I couldn't pull a fast one on you Shikamaru, Sasuke, Shino, and Neji. When did you guys figure it out?"

"When we all stop to setup camp; around the camp fire, Kiba went to slap you on the back for a joke you made but you quickly avoid being hit. Instantly Shino, Neji, Sasuke, and I looked at each other. That's when we knew. When everyone went to sleep we came to the conclusion to play this out and see where it went. So Naruto, did you get The Seal Mistress to remove her seal?"

Sasuke, Shino, and Neji along with the rest of the group looked at Shikamaru with stunned expression. Naruto smiled at Shikamaru, "You're too smart for your own good Shikamaru. Yes, her seal is gone. You know so much, can you figure out what's my next move?"

"You need us to say that we defeated and killed the person that took Hinata, but she was injured and will need to spend sometime in the hospital, correct?" Shikamaru waited for a response.

"Damn Shikamaru, how can a lazy ass like you be so perceptive?" Naruto asked.

"When I figured out what you did I thought of many possible moves you could make. Forget it, It's too trouble…" A fan hit him over the head before he could finish that word.

"If you say troublesome again so help me I will…" Temari was cut off by Sasuke.

"I assume Tsunade is in on this?" The Uchiha asked.

"Yes, I informed her of it yesterday." Naruto answered.

"Let's get going, we should arrive there by tomorrow morning. We only have one day to rest there before we go to Water Country." Gaara informed everyone.

Kiba walked up to Naruto, "I'll take her if you don't mind."

Naruto handed Hinata to Kiba, who took off leaving everyone behind. Everyone followed suit accept for Neji, who stayed behind lost in his thoughts "So…the seal can be removed? I think I should talk to Naruto about it while were in Water Country."

Neji disappeared where he was from and headed in the same direction as his team.

Somewhere in Tea Country…

Kakashi and his squad, which consisted of Yamato, Sai, Aoba, and Raido were walking along a dirt road on their way back to the Leaf village. Tsunade assigned Kakashi and everyone else to an A rank mission. Their mission was to protect Wasabari Jirocho, the head of the Wasabari clan, as they escorted him to and from Earth Country. They ran

into a couple of Rock nins but nothing too serious. It was a long mission and everyone couldn't wait to get back to Konoha.

"I'm sure glad that mission is over with. I can't wait to get back home and just relax?" Aoba said in tone that illustrated his relief.

"Yes, I can't wait to be back home either. But I can't really complain, the mission wasn't that hard." Yamato stated.

"I suppose not. It could have been worse." Raido stated.

Raido, Aoba, and Yamato were chatting, while Kakashi was reading his book. Sai, who wasn't really paying any attention to them had his eyes fixed on the sky. Yamato, who was laughing at a joke that Aoba made, turned to look at Sai, "Hey, Sai what's the matter?"

"That bird…It's gorgeous." Sai said.

Yamato looked at Sai then let his eyes trace Sai's line of sight. When he saw what Sai was looking at his eyes widen in shock. Aoba and Raidou looked at him as well. Both curious at what the two were looking looked at the sky; The two instantly became shocked as well. Kakashi was still walking when he realized that everyone got quite. He turned around to see everyone fixated on the sky. Kakashi curious, looked up to see what they were looking at. His right eye showed his visible shock.

"Kakashi, you see that?" Raido was the first to speak

"Yes, but I don't believe it. We have to tell the Hokage what we saw. No more wasting time let's hurry and get moving" Kakashi ordered.

Sai looked at Kakashi, "Kakashi-sempai, do you know what type of bird that is?"

"Kakashi eye focused on Sai, "Yes. That bird is the god of all birds, it is the legendary Phoenix."

Kakashi turned around and disappeared from view. Everyone else did the same accept for Sai. He continue to look at the enormous bird, covered in blue flames fly miles over head.

"I will draw that bird when I get back home. A creature of such beauty needs a portrait in its honor." Sai took his eyes off of the sky and followed suite, vanishing into nothingness.

Cloud Village…

The Raikage sat at his desk. He got word back from The Misukage, who was willing to hold the meeting. The Raikage smiled at this knowing that his plan were coming along.

His assistant came in to his office.

"Sir, Kouen, Kumoko, and Cadaan are here to see you."

"Send them in Momiji." The Raikage motioned for her to send theme in.

Kouen, followed by Kumoko, a girl in her early twenties, who had long flowing red hair and blue eyes and Cadaan, a man who looked to be around the same age as Kumoko, Had short brown hair and brown eyes; All of them were dressed in the standard Jounin uniform. The Raikage motioned for them to grab a chair and sit in front of his desk.

"I'm sure Kouen has given you all the details about you two being here?" The Raikage asked the two other Jounins.

"Yes sir, He informed us that we will be you personal escort to the county of Water. Sir, I was wondering if Uzumaki Naruto was going to be there."

He looked at Kumoko and smirked, "Yes, however you are not to go near him while we are there. We will not attack anyone from the Leaf or anyone connected to them while we are there. Is that understood Kumoko?"

"But sir he's the one who…" Kumoko was cut short by the Hokage.

"Yes, he was the one who killed your father I know. No offense to you, but your father, my old sensei, was a fool. Had he became Raikage he could have had the backing of a village to carry out his dealings. I didn't know the complete purpose of Akatsuki, but I do know that nine or ten people, no matter how elite they are, doesn't equate to the power of a village. Your father forgot that when he decided to retire to pursue his quest for power." The Raikage stated

"Sir please, let me take him out. This all that I request sir, I have never requested anything from you sir, nothing." Kumoko pleaded.

"I'm sorry Kumoko, you will not try to kill him while we are there." The Raikage informed the girl.

"The Raikage's right Kumoko besides, what good are you to the Cloud dead?" Cadaan said with a smirk.

"What the hell are you trying to say?" every word was said through the gritting of her teeth.

"He's trying to say that if you go up against the Golden Fox, you are going to die. Kumoko, granted you are strong but you still don't compare to your father. That man killed your father, face him would mean certain death." Kouen answered for Cadaan.

She tore her gaze from Kouen back to the Raikage, "Sir, if I can't kill him there, can I kill him when we move to the final phase of the plan?"

The Raikage leaned back in his chair, "It seems Kouen told you the plan but he felt to mention that I have given him the assignment of killing Uzumaki Naruto and Uchiha Sasuke. I don't know if he has anyone close to him…Wait a minute. Yes, yes this is perfect. Kumoko, You won't kill Uzumaki, but you will take someone that is precious from him away."

Kouen smile at what the Raikage was implying. "You mean Ryuho's little girl, don't you sir?"

"Yes. For a man to slaughter close to three-hundred nins for a little girl reveals his deep care for the girl does it not?" The Raikage asked not really expecting an answer.

Cadaan spoke up, "Sir, are you forgetting that she is Ryuho's daughter. Getting to her will not be an easy task sir."

"Yes, I'm well aware of that, however, it is something that can be done. It's like you said, this will not be an easy task. That's why it will take precise planning to make it happen. Once I get Tsunade to hold the Chuunin exams in the Leaf, we will prepare a strategy and an elite team, including us four, will go to Sea Country. If we succeed Kumoko, I will give you the pleasure of killing the girl and sending her head to Uzumaki." The Raikage stated to the female Jounin.

"You said if we succeed, what do you mean by that sir? I mean if you're coming success is guaranteed is it not?" Cadaan questioned.

"Success isn't guaranteed. This is Ryuho and the Minashu clan, their sword style rivals my Wicked Wind style. Remember Ryuho isn't the only one that knows it, everyone in that compound does. They may not rival my power, but he might to some degree. Anyway, we will discuss this in more detail tomorrow. Remember, we leave the day after tomorrow." The Raikage reminded the group.

Kouen decided to speak, "Sir, I was wondering if maybe Kumoko here could confront Uzumaki? I mean, I know he can use the Minashu clan's style, but it would be good to see what he is capable of and not to mention she would see that she is no match."

The Raikage stroked his chin, "Hmm…Ok, Kumoko I will allow you to do this. I know you're not satisfied with the plan I have formulated and would rather kill Uzumaki, but I'm only looking out for the safety of my soldiers. I'm going to need all the man power I can get if I wish to crush the Leaf. Well if that is all, you guys are dismissed. Also, if you see Daki and Roba, let those two guys know that they are also coming on this mission as well. I think appearing with my five best ninjas will show our villages superiority."

They all nodded and then proceeded out of the room. The Raikage leant back in his chair, counting the days until the meeting in Mist.

9 am Konoha the next day…

Naruto and everyone else arrived quickly at the hospital. Naruto, along with everyone else escorted an unconscious Hinata to the Hospital. Tsunade and Shizune, who awaited their return, had them rush Hinata to the ICU wing. After escorting her to the hospital, Naruto, along with Sasuke and the Sand trio left. Tsunade was informed of Naruto's plan. She didn't know why he did it but she was going to find out when she got him alone. When Tsunade reached the room with a Shizune and a medical staff in tow, she informed everyone that she and Shizune alone would be handling this case personally. She also informed them that nobody besides her or Shizune is to enter the room.

Tenten, Lee, Shino, Kiba, Neji, and Kurenai where waiting in the waiting room. After an hour or two of waiting, Tsunade, followed by Shizune and Ton-ton not who were not to far behind, looked at the group, "Don't worry, she's just sleep. I checked her for poison and stuff of that nature."

Kurenai gave a sigh of relief, while Tenten, Lee, Shino, Kiba, and Neji already knew what was up. Kurenai stood from her chair, "Hokage-sama, can I go see her now?"

"No, no one is to go see her but Shizune, is that understood. You will see her when she has fully recovered" The Hokage stated with a tone finality.

Kurenai nodded in understanding. The silence was broken when they heard a voice, "I heard that my pathetic excuse of a daughter was retrieved. Where is she? I wish to see her."

Kiba looked at Hiashi with a look of hate, "You won't go near her. All you're going to do is berate her and tell her how worthless she is. I won't let you do that."

Hiashi, who was standing next to Hanabi looked at Kiba and smirked, "Dogs should stay in their place."

That was Kiba needed before throwing himself at Hiashi. Kiba went to swing but Lee interfered and blocked his path. Kiba still with his eyes focused on Hiashi, "What the hell are you doing Lee, get out of my way so I can beat his ass!"

"I'm sorry Kiba-kun, but you wouldn't stand a chance against Hiashi-sama. He isn't the head of the Hyuuga for nothing you know. Besides, this isn't the place. We are here to give our support to Hinata, not start a fight." Lee said in hopes it would calm Kiba down.

Kiba let out a grunt then walked away. Lee went back to sit next to Tenten. Hiashi looked at Tsunade, "Well can I see her?"

"No" She said flatly.

His eyes narrowed, "What do you mean no?"

"I mean you're not going to see her. You will see her like everyone else when she has recovered fully. I don't care if you're her father or the head of the Hyuuga, I said no and that's that." Tsunade told the Hiashi.

Hanabi looked at Tsunade with worried eyes, "Hokage-sama, is Hinata ok?"

"Yes, she will be from what I can tell. Just give her time to recover." Hanabi was now breathing a sigh of relief. Hiashi motioned for Hanabi to follow.

Tsunade looked at the group, "I think you guys should leave. Besides I expect you all in my office in the next hour. I will be going over the duties while I'm gone ok" They all nodded. Tsunade, followed by Shizune and Ton-ton left.

At The Hotel…

Naruto knew he had to meet Tsunade in her office in an hour; she informed him and everyone else before they left. Naruto was glad to be back with her with Yumi. Naruto was looking around the room for Yumi, but couldn't find her anywhere. So he decided to go next door where Mai was staying.

Naruto knocked on the door and Mai opened up. Upon entering he saw Yumi, and Jiraiya. "So what are you guys doing in Mai-san's room?"

"Well were just relaxing. We just came back from breakfast, Jiraiya treated surprisingly." Yumi informed Naruto.

"You have money to pay for their breakfast, what about that money you owe me from the time we went looking for obaa-chan, huh?" Naruto asked.

Jiraiya put his hand to his chin as he was thinking, "Hmm… What money?"

Naruto was about to choke his sensei but Jiraiya looked at him with a serious expression, "How did it go?"

Naruto looked at his sensei, "It went ok. She'll probably be sleep for a couple more days. She woke up when we were in River Country but feel back to sleep soon after. You were there when Gamakichi informed Tsunade I presume."

"Yes, I was. Naruto, take a walk with me. We need to talk." Jiraiya stood up and walked to the door.

"I just got back, and during my time in this village I haven't really spent any time with Yumi." Naruto told Jiraiya with an expression on his face that displayed his unhappiness

'Tough. If you wanted to spend time with her then you should have never decided to get involve in this conflict. Besides Yumi isn't going anywhere, You'll have the rest of the day to spend with her."

Naruto thought about what he said. "Ok, I have to meet Tsunade in an hour so we can walk and talk on the way there."

Both of the men exited the Mai's room.

"Naruto, you should really watch out for Yumi and Mai. When I took them to lunch I saw the looks that they got from the villagers that know about the Kyuubi inside of you. Naruto, I will look after them as much as I can while you're gone but I can't always keep and eye on them. I have other matters to tend to. I thought I should let you know."

Naruto absorb every word, "I'm aware that some idiot will try something while I'm gone. Don't worry Ero-sennnin, I will figure out what to do. Thanks for informing me."

Jiraiya and Naruto walked in silence. Jiraiya glanced at Naruto, "Should I tell him now? NO, it isn't the right time. I will tell him when he gets back from his mission. Yes me and Tsunade will sit down and tell him. He's old enough and strong enough now to ward of the enemy's you may have made Arashi. We will tell him soon, he deserves to know."

Naruto and Jiraiya arrived at the building. Jiraiya looked Naruto, "You have at least another forty minutes, what's the rush?"

"There's no rush. It doesn't make sense to go back and see Yumi, so I'll go up stairs and wait. You coming?" Naruto asked.

"No, I actually have to go and take care of that business I was talking about. Later" Jiraiya disappeared in a poof of smoke. Naruto wondered what he had to deal with but just shrugged it of and went up stairs.

30 minutes later…

Naruto sat in Tsunade's office by himself just waiting. The first person that walked in was Shizune.

She was startled by Naruto, "Oh Naruto-kun you scared me. I wasn't expecting anyone to be in here you know."

"Shizune-neechan, where is obaa-chan? I thought we were to meet her in here. Shouldn't she be early?" Naruto asked the medic nin

"She usually comes just on time. I'm just here setting things up. I know it's not your job, but would you mind helping me?" Naruto shook his head and got up to help Shizune place mats around the room.

During those ten minutes, a number of Jounin's filed into the room. Tsunade came in with Koharu and Homura. They all sat on the mats place around the room.

Tsunade began, "Ok everyone, I will be giving out you assignments while I'm gone. I expect all of the Jounin's to be stationed over the village in critical areas. Have sent notices informing Chuunin's of there tasks which will be to patrol the village. If they see something suspicious they are to report to the Jounins stationed in that sector. As for the Genins, their instructor will give them the orders to watch over the hospital, the ninja academy, and the civilians. Ibiki, you are to inform all Anbu members that they are to patrol the outside of the village. If a sneak attack comes while I'm gone I want to show that our village will not fall even in my absences."

Kurenai raised her had to speak, "Are you going to divide the Jounins in squads or what?"

"Everyone has shifts. When the Genins go off Duty for the night and I expect my Jounins to pick up their slack. However, you will be divided into groups. The group placements is in the pamphlet that Shizune is passing around. This was design in accordance to your skills and how well you work with one another." Tsunade answered the Jounin.

Another Jounin raised his hand, " Hokage-sama, why are we doing a five hour rotation instead of an eight?"

"I thought it would be obvious. It's because…" The door to the room busted open revealing Kakashi, Raidou, Yamato, Sai and Aoba.

Tsunade looked at Kakashi, "What is the meaning of this Kakashi?"

"Tsunade-sama, you're never going to guess what we saw on our mission." Kakashi said.

"I don't have time for this now Kakashi, you interrupting a very important…"

"It was a Phoenix." Tsunade, Shizune, Kurenai, Gai, Asuma, and just about all of the Jounins who were old enough to remember the Third Great Shinobi war went wide eyed. The older Jounins started whispering to themselves.

Koharu spoke, "Quiet." Everyone went into a deep silence, she focused on Kakahsi, "Are you sure it was a Phoenix Kakashi?"

"Yes I'm 100 hundred percent sure."

Sasuke looked at Kakashi, "What's the big deal about seeing a Phoenix?"

Kakashi looked at Sasuke, "A Phoenix is not common. The only way to see a Phoenix is…"

"If someone has the contract" Tsunade concluded turning everyone's attention to her.

"A Phoenix Contract…How come I never heard of it?" Naruto asked

"It's a rare contract. The Phoenix contract and the Dragon contract are the two summoning contracts of legend. Their contracts are greater than the snake, the toad, the slug, and the monkey contracts. It is said that they are equal in power, but to get either one of these contracts one has to go through certain trials. But first you must find the caves to their lairs in order to go through the trials. Like the snake contract that Sasuke and Anko have, the holders of these contracts are also granted swords. These swords, like the Kusunagi, is apart of the four swords of legend. There is the Dragon's Fang, The Phoenix's Claw, Grass Cutter(Kusunagi), and Heaven's Blade. Naruto, I'm sure you have seen the Heaven's Blade."

"Yes, But Ryuho-sensei never uses it." Naruto informed Tsunade.

A Jounin raised her hand, "So that means Anko has the Grass Cutter, right?"

Anko answered, "No I don't, Sasuke does. Even though I had the contract before him, Manda is the one that decides who is fit to wield the Grass Cutter, and He chose Sasuke because he is stronger."

Kurenai stood up, "Kakashi, did you by any chance see someone riding the Phoenix?" Kurenai asked with hope in her eyes.

"No" Kakashi answered. Kurenai ran out of the room. Asuma was about to go after her when Kakashi place a hand on his shoulder and just shook his head.

Tsunade stood up, "Everyone has their assignments; this meeting is done."

Tsunade hurried out of the office and headed to her personal office. Shizune, with soft eyes, looked at Tsunade, while Ton-ton was in her arms. Ton-ton look up to Shizune, "Bui, Bui , Bui" Shizune looked down at Ton-ton then back at where the exit Tsunade left through, "I know, but I think she should be alone right now. Come on Ton-ton. Let's look for Kurenai Ok."

Asuma walked up to Shizune, "I'll with you."

Kakashi walked up next to her too, "Well seeing as I don't have anything better to do, I guess I will help you look for her as well."

In the Hokage's office…

Tsunade was sitting in her chair looking at her pictures. She looked at the picture that her Naurto, Jiraiya, and Shizune took on their way back to the Leaf. She then looked at the one with her Jiraiya, Orochimaru, and Sandaime, good times she thought. Then next picture she looked at was a younger her with her brother Nawaki. The next picture she came upon was her, Dan, a 4 year old Shizune, and a boy about the same age with black spiky hair that stopped at his cheek(think of Gundam Wing's Heero Yuy, hairstyle). His eyes bared a strong resemblance of hers. Tsunade closed her eyes; tears slide down her cheeks hitting the picture.

Somewhere in the village…

Naruto was curious about Tsunade and Kurenai's actions. He knew that Kakashi, Shizune or Asuma knew something, so he decided to follow them. Kakashi stopped, "Naruto, if you want something you can just come and ask you don't need to stalk around."

Naruto appeared in front of Kakashi, "Something is up, what is it that I missed?" Kakashi looked at Asuma who looked away; he then looked at Shizune who looked at the ground. Kakashi turned his head back to Naruto, "It's complicated Naruto. I think Shizune and Asuma can tell the story better than I can."

Naruto looked a Shizune, "Shizune-neechan, what's going on? Why did Obaa-chan seem sad, and why did Kurenai run out of the meeting?"

"Well Naruto, you remember the story I told you about how Tsunade's brother and my uncle were killed because of the necklace. Well, those two weren't the only ones that she lost to that necklace." Shizune explained.

Naruto looking at her slightly confused, "What do you mean those weren't the only people that she lost to the necklace? Who was the other person?"

"Her son."

Time around Naruto stopped when he heard what Shizune said. Shizune gathered herself then continue, "You see Naruto, Tsunade-sama and my uncle Dan had a son, his name was Senzairu. Not many people know that, well not the younger generation anyway because he died 18 years ago. He was the reason why Tsunade left the village. When uncle died she was sad, sad beyond belief. But, my cousin and I filled the void; he more so than I because he was her child."

"Oh. So that explains obaa-chan, what about Kurenai?" Naruto asked.

"He was on our team." Asuma answered. He pulled out a cigarette, lit it and took a long as he closed his eyes. He blew out the smoke and continued, "You see Kurenai, Shizune, Senzairu, and myself all graduated the academy at nine. We weren't the best students, but we weren't the worst either. Senzairu, Kurenai, and I were placed on the same Genin squad. It's funny when I look back at how much he liked Kurenai back then but she ignored him a treated him badly, history does repeats itself in a sense. However, when we were eleven, we were on a mission. Kurenai was in danger, I was low on chakra, and somehow Senzairu saved her. He gave this ninja a big monologue about how he would protect her with his life and such; I never did remember that speech. That was the turn point of their relationship, Kurenai and he were joined at the hip."

"Oh I see…he has the Phoenix contract doesn't he?" Naruto asked.

"Yes. No one knows where he got it, but all I remember is him requesting for some time off. This was when he was 12. He was missing for about 2…how many weeks Shizune?"

"3 weeks, 5 days, 4 hours, 22 minutes, 11 seconds." Everyone gave her a weird look.

"What? That's what Tsunade kept saying while she scolded him in the hospital."

Asuma slowly turn away from Shizune, "Ooookay, anyway, he was missing for 3 weeks. But he came back bruised and injured. Turns out that he has the Phoenix contract, which was nothing more than a bedtime story that ninja told their kids."

Asuma continued, "Over the next year, we took the Chuunin exams and passed at the age of 13. Senzairu skill was rising; some say that he was on his way to becoming a Jounin and might possibly pass the Sannin; In fact, he turned down Anbu numerous times. His chakra control and Taijutsu were excellent, benefits of being a Sannin, who is a medic nin son. His ninjutsu was excellent, and his genjutsu was fairly decent, but nothing like Kurenai who was an expert in it. During the next two years his relation with Kurenai developed, it wasn't puppy love; those two actually loved each other. During this time we also fought in the Third Great Shinobi War. The funny thing about war is that you always lose something close to you. Shizune lost a cousin, Kakashi and I lost our best friend, and Kurenai a lover, and Tsunade a son."

"So how did he die?" Naruto finally asked the dreaded question.

Shizune spoke up, "Asuma, Kurenai, Genma, and Shikaku, Asuma's, Kurenai's, and Senzairu's Jounin instructor. We were place on their squad for support, me as the medic and Genma for his physical skills. We had a mission that brought us near Lightning Country, we were confronted by a couple of Nins from Cloud. We was fighting for our lives. Shikaku was busy fending of a Jounin, while we were stuck taking on the other three nins. We took down two nins at the cost of injury. Kurenai, Genma, Asuma, and I were out of the fight. Senazairu, as good as he was, was up against a nin who seemed to have more experience. But Sezairu did a move that he was working on in secret to insure our survival."

Flashback

It a grassy field, two warriors stood about to face off. The younger kid looked tired, like he was doing all he could to stand. The Slightly older man was panting, but he wasn't as bad as the kid.

The Cloud-nin looked at the kid, "It's over, it ends here."

Senzairu closed his eye and smiled, "Either way, it does end here."

Senzairu bought his hands together with only the index fingers pointing upward. Shizune, Kurenai, and Genma were on the ground behind him. He turned his head and looked at Shizune, "Shizune, tell Kaasan that I'm sorry, I had to do this. Asuma take care of Kurenai for me. Kurenai, I want you to know…that I'm doing this for you. Remember that I swore to protect you. Well that's what I'm going to do. Goodbye, everyone."

Senzairu disappeared from sight and was in the air. The Cloud nin looked up to see the boy in front high above him was glowing white. The light was shining so bright it looked like and angel from come down from the heavens. Before the Cloud nin could react, the kanji of death appear on his chest. Senzairu who had his eyes close throughout the whole process opened suddenly, he then shouted, "Angel of Death!"

Everything in the immediate area was covered by a blinding white light. The light died down after five minutes, it took everyone a while to see clearly. Kurenai, despite the pain in her legs, stood up. "Senzairu! Senzairu! Senzairu!"

Asuma slowly walked up to her and put a hand on her shoulder, "Kurenai, he's gone."

"He's not gone. It's just one of his sick jokes. He'll come out any minute, you'll see, you'll see." She fell to the ground and broke down crying.

Shizune was crying hysterically. Genma went to comfort her. Shikaku walked back to the group. His fight was over, the nin he was fighting faded with the light. He looked at his group and saw Senzairu missing. Genma, who was holding a crying Shizune in his arms looked at Shikaku and shook his head, Shikaku looked at the ground when a gleam in the grass caught his eye. He walked to the spot to find the Shodaime's necklace. He put it in his pocket. He was not looking forward to telling Tsunade that her son was dead. He didn't tell the team to come on, He let them stay there and mourn the lost of a friend and a teammate.

End of Flashback…

"So he sacrificed himself for you guys?" Naruto asked.

"Yes, that's why his name is on the memory stone. When Tsunade got the news, she immediately left the village. I followed her as well, I loved my home but it was hard staying in a place that was a constant reminder." Shizune told Naruto.

Kakashi spoke, "I doubt that another person has found the Phoenix Lair. I didn't want to give Tsunade or Kurenai false hope, but I didn't think it would be right to hide what I saw."

"This is very enlightening. I will be going, thanks for the info guys." Naruto disappeared.

Kakashi looked at Asuma and Shizune, "Let's find Kurenai." They nodded and continue walking.

In another part of town…

Genma was telling a similar story to Gai and his squad, and the group from the rookie nine, excluding Naruto and Hinata.

"She never said anything." Sakura said feeling bad for her sensei.

"No. It's a touchy subject for her and Shizune. But if what Radiou, Kakashi, Yamato and Sai saw is true then either he's alive which is impossible, or someone else has the contract." Genma replied.

"Why is it so hard to believe that he might be alive?" Sasuke asked.

"You're a Jounin, take a look at the technique called Angel of Death in the scroll library. It's an S- rank jutsu that is hard to perform. The technique is a self sacrificing jutsu.

But it will take out anyone once it locks on the target. There is no escaping it and no way of surviving it." Genma said so Sasuke would understand.

"What do you think is going to happen now?" Neji asked.

"I don't know, I guess the truth will come to light. We'll find out soon enough if he's dead or if he's alive. That will determine whether there is a new user of the contract." Genma told him.

Gai was a bit skeptical about Senzairu being dead. "They never did recover the body. But the technique is believed to erase the person from existence. I don't know… something is telling me that he is alive. But it's like Genma said, we will find out soon enough."

Minashu Compound in Sea Country…

Ryuho was outside in the back with Hayami. They were practicing with wooden swords. Hayami lose balance when she went to swing at her father, he side stepped then tripped her. She fell to the ground face first. He put the wooden sword to her neck.

"Hayami, that makes the 3rd time today you would have been killed. You're getting better, but your foot work needs fine tuning." He extended his hand for the girl to support. She didn't take his hand, instead she got up on her own. She jumped 3 feet away and positioned herself. "Father let's go again."

He looked at his daughter and saw that she wasn't going to take no for an answer, "Ok, but this is the last time for today."

The girl immediately charged at her father. He went on the defensive, blocking every blow from her. He was smiling to himself, glad to see her improvement. Hayami jumped in the air and swung the sword at her fathers head. He leant back, the wood blade came and inch away from his nose. She did a couple of more strikes which he blocked. 15 mins later Hayami found herself in the same position.

"That's enough Hayami. Get up and go clean yourself up. We will continue this tomorrow." Ryuho said to his daughter.

She nodded then headed off to the house. Ryuho smiled at her as she ran to the house. He turned to his left, "It's been a long time hasn't, Senzairu?"

The man with the black cloak removed the hood, "Yes it has Ryuho. You do know why I have come?"

Ryuho walked up to the man, "I can only guess that it has something to do with this war."

"Yes. Old friend, just like me, you're going to get pulled into a war that you don't want to be involved in."

Ryuho turned to look at the sky, "I know. Someone will come for my blade and I will have to fight to protect my family. Can I ask you a question Senzairu?"

"Sure"

"Why are you getting involved?" Ryuho asked.

"No one can deal with him but me."

"What about Tsunade?" Ryuho questioned.

"He has surpassed my mother and she hasn't trained for years. If she fights him she will die, I will not allow that to happen."

"My student Naruto can do it."

"No, no he cannot."

"He has the Nine-tails inside of him?"

"I know. The Cloud has a Jinchuurki as well. Naruto and he might be on the same level but Hiyayaka Aisu and I are in a whole different class. I and Aisu clashed twice already. The first time was when I was fifteen, and the last time was about 8 years ago. We both walked away from that battle, but injured. I think you should know that he is the inheritor of the Wicked Wind style. It rivals my Divine Wrath, and your Heavenly Sword. To top it all off, he has the Dragon contract which makes him the wielder of the Dragon's Fang."

"I haven' t trained really hard in years. I know I'm rusty but I'm sure you came here to tell me that the worst is coming."

"More or less. He's using this war to draw me out. He wants to kill me. With me dead, there will be no one that can rival his power."

"You're forgetting that I'm still around?" Ryuho said with a sulky expression.

Senzairu laughed, "No I'm not, but it's like you said you are rusty. My real reason for coming here is about Naruto actually."

"It's about Heaven's Blade?"

"Yes. What will you decide?" Senzairu asked.

"He will have to go through the trials. I will send word to him because he will need it soon."

"That's unnecessary. I will tell him while I'm in Water Country. I want to keep a close eye on Aisu. Also I want to assess his skills. I heard the kid is fast. Can he use the Hirashin?" Senzairu waited for a response.

"No. Boy if he could he would be unstoppable even without the Kyuubi." Ryuho informed Senzairu.

"Gravity seals?" Senzairu wondered.

"Yes, why are you asking all of this?"

Senzairu looked at the sky, "Because, if I just so happen to lose, he's going to be the only one that can defeat him."

"You may be right, but the last time he was here his level was X2. I don't know much about gravity seals, but I have and idea about the levels, so what level are you on?" Ryuho questioned.

Senzairu looked at him and smiled, "I'm currently at X6."

"Impressive as always, eh Senzairu?"

Ryuho and Senzairu turned around to face Jiraiya. Senzairu gave the old man a warm smile "It's been a while Jiraiya-sama."

"Yes it has. So this war is about confronting you and world domination so to speak?" Jiraiya asked.

"You were listening in on us for the last 5 minutes, you already know the answer to that. So…How is she?" Senzairu asked.

He gave the man a smile, "She's better now, but seeing you will definitely be a shock to her system. It's been 18 years since anyone has last seen you, are you going back?"

"Yes. As the Shodaime heir, I have to protect the Leaf. I will also get to see Kurenai, Shizune, Asuma, and Kaasan again. But I'm not going back now, I have things to do and discover." Senzairu bit his thumb and rubbed blood on the tribal looking Phoenix tattoo on his left forearm. He place his hand to the ground revealing a Large Phoenix with purple flames. He jumped on the phoenix's back and motioned for it to take off.

While in the air, he looked at Jiraiya and Ryuho, "I will see you guys soon." The Phoenix vanished in to a burst of beautiful purple flames leaving behind purple fiery feathers that burn out when they hit the ground.

Jiraiya looked at Ryuho, "He sure has grown from the last time I saw him 18 years ago."

"Far more than you know. I battled him about 8 years ago while in Wind Country. He actually confronted me. I had to use it and still we were dead even. I never tied with anyone in a battle. That was 8 years ago. Add that to the fact that he's been training this whole time, he is something to be feared even by me." Ryuho informed the Jiraiya.

"You're right, but if anything the event to come will be interesting." Jiraiya and Ryuho both looked to the setting sun. Ryuho smiled, "That it will, that it will."

A/N

I know Tsunade didn't have a son but remember guys this is a fic and I didn't make her one of the main characters for nothing. This fic has been planned in my head months before I posted it. Tsunade was 23 when she had him with Dan. Dan died four years later. When she was 38, a couple of months before they got word about the Kyuubi, Senzairu disappeared on mission. She left the village and Shizune followed.

Now we see that there are two characters, possibly three, stronger than and two that can rival Naruto. Will Naruto become the successor of the sword? What will the Reunion between Ryuho and Tsunade be like? What is going to happen in Water Country? Will Senzairu confront Aisu? Will Jiraiya and Tsunade tell Naruto about his father and if so how will he react? All of this in the next chapter, It's only just beginning.

I know everyone thinks i'm going of topic, but these characters will play and important part in whats to come. Everyone thinks these are "Fillers" so to speak. The last couple chapters aren't fillers, their setting up and introducing characters, their skills, and the role their going to play in this war. The plot was never for:

Naruto come back to the Leaf

Naruto beats Sasuke

Naruto saves the village

Everyone love him and he becomes Hokage.

I think everyone assumed where the story was going based on other similar Naruto fics that they have read, I however, will not be following the conventional standards. This story might not go the way people may want it to go. But I will say this, every chapter has it's importance, it may not seem like it but they do. Just jumping into a story and getting to the action with out explaining how this character can do this and that, is something that turns people off from a story. I know a lot of you guys are like, damn where is the action, there is no fighting it's only more introduction of characters. The battles are coming but every detail needs to be covered before that happen.

Here are the ages of characters. If you guys want to know the ages of characters not mentioned.

Naruto - 18

Sasuke - 18

Sakura - 18

Kakashi -32

Ryuho - 43

Tsunade- 56

Jiraiya - 56

Gai's team-19

Rookie nine-18

Sai-? Late teens early twenties.

Gai - 32

Kurenai -33

Asuma - 33

Shizune -33

Senzairu -33

Kumoko -24

Kouen - 24

Cadaan - 26

Hiyayaka Aisu(Raikage)-38

Naiya - 44

Yamato -30

Yumi- 18

Mai- 41

Konohamaru-14

Hanabi-13

Anko-30

Iruka-31

The Fourth –26 deceased(would have been 44)