The Sannin Return

Blanket disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or Tenjho Tenge

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Ever wonder what Aya's been up to all this time? You'll get a sampler this chapter. Also, Jiraiya and Tsunade finally arrive in Konoha, so changes are in the wind. Here is chapter 14:

Last time:

"Hell, I could use some of these moves. This one is positively brutal ." laughed Bunshichi while pointing to a diagram that looked like a chiropractor's worst nightmare.

"Awesome! I knew I could count on you sensei!" said Naruto.

"I'll need to keep the book here to study it so we can get it right." said Bunshichi. "Is that okay?"

Naruto nodded. "I trust you to take good care of it sensei."

"Alright; give me a few days to study this." said the older of the pair.

"That's fine." grumbled Naruto. "I have to drudge through fuinjutsu textbooks to see if I can find one to teach my class with. They're all garbage so far."

"You're a sensei?" asked Bunshichi in a disbelieving tone.

Naruto nodded. "Yeah, I'm teaching the ANBU Fuinjutsu Team how to do seals. They're really pathetic. They misbehaved earlier today so I nearly had to drown them in blue paint."

Bunshichi had seen the 'Blue ANBU' spectacle earlier that day and exploded into laughter…

…

Chapter 14

Konoha, Yūgao and Hayate's Apartment

It was Sunday morning and Yūgao and Hayate were making out passionately in bed. After Yūgao ended up painted blue yesterday she'd been pretty upset and Hayate helped her clean up in the shower and one thing led to another… "Hayate-kun, we both have the day off today. What do you say we stay in bed and make love all day?" asked Yūgao with hungry eyes.

Hayate smiled happily. "Your wish is my command beautiful."

Yūgao never did get around to grading all that homework…

…

Natsume Clan Home

Naruto and the girls were standing around a new fuinjutstu tag that Naruto created. He had it set up in the entryway near the steps leading upstairs. "What does this thing do again nii-san?" asked Hanabi curiously. "It repels things?"

Naruto nodded. "I call it a repulsor tag. The idea is if you wear it a field would activate and it would push kunai and shuriken away from you. It can be aimed so I have it angled towards me." He held up a rubber ball. "I'm going to toss this ball at it and if it works right it should repel the ball back towards me."

"Cool!" said Aya. "So, you could attach it to armor for extra protection."

"Exactly right Aya-chan." said Naruto as he activated the seal on the floor. "Here we go!" Naruto lightly tossed the ball at the tag and it came to a halt in the air for a split second before it sent the ball rocketing back towards Naruto at terminal velocity and hit him square in the chest. The impact sent him tumbling up the stairs, down the hall and headfirst into the hamper full of clothes.

Maya and Hinata cried out "Naruto-kun!" and Aya and Hanabi stared completely dumbfounded at what they'd just witnessed.

That's when they heard Hanako Obaa-chan cracking up with laughter upstairs. "Hahaha! I have to say I've seen people fall down stairs Naruto-kun, but not UP them! And you landed perfectly headfirst in the dirty clothes! Bwahaha! You made my morning."

Naruto groaned and moved his legs a little (they were the only part sticking out of the hamper). Hanabi was shocked to hear her Obaa-chan laughing so uproariously (Usually a little dignified chuckle was all you'd get out of her).

Hinata and Maya deactivated the seal and went upstairs to make sure their Naruto-kun was alright. Hinata turned to Hanako. "Hanako Obaa-chan! I cannot believe you are laughing when Naruto-kun could be severely injured!"

Hanako was still getting her laughter under control. "Don't be ridiculous Hinata-chan! (guffaw) Naruto-kun is as durable as a piece of granite. He's fine. You two girls just fish him out of the hamper. I haven't laughed this hard in years! Bwahaha!"

Naruto just muttered, "I can just feel the love coming from you Obaa-chan…" to which Hanako just chortled some more.

As it turned out Naruto was unhurt though shaken up a bit. Hinata and Maya fussed over him for a while anyway though.

As for the repulsor tag…it was back to the drawing board for that one…

…

Konoha Front Gates

"Wow, this place is huge!" said Mito excitedly as she looked at the enormous wooden gates of the Konoha Village.

Jiraiya chuckled. "Well, it's a lot bigger than Dokoni mo; that's for sure. Let's sign in Mito-chan."

Both Izumo and Kotetsu were struck dumb when the group announced themselves. The future Fifth Hokage said, "Senju Tsunade and Jiraiya of the sannin here reporting to the Hokage. My apprentice Kato Shizune and Senju Mito-chan are here as well."

"Tsunade-sama, Jiraiya-sama, welcome home." said Kotetsu in surprise. "I'm sure Hokage-sama will be happy to see you here. Please enter."

Jiraiya and the others made their way to the Hokage tower where everyone was stunned to see them. (Particularly Tsunade since as far as they knew she was never coming back). They were also curious about Tsunade's mini-me that was looking around with wide eyes taking in all the sights while holding Tsunade's hand. Hiruzen's shocked secretary quickly welcomed them and the Hokage invited them in. Sarutobi Hiruzen couldn't have been happier to welcome his two loyal students. "Tsunade, Jiraiya, you don't know how pleased I am to see you. It is good to see you as well Shizune and Mito-chan. I trust you all will be taking up residence in the Senju Compound?"

"Yes sensei, I'll have to unlock the blood seal so we can start cleaning the place." said Tsunade. "I imagine it will take a couple of genin teams or more."

"That's not an issue Tsunade." said Hiruzen. "We have much to discuss. Shizune-chan; would you like to show Mito-chan around the village? I bet she would enjoy a tour."

Shizune picked up on the hint and said, "Let's get some food and look around Mito-chan. I'll show you around. We can meet Tsunade-sama and Jiraiya-sama for lunch later."

Hiruzen said, "Let's all meet at the Golden Leaf at one o'clock. I'll treat everyone to lunch." Shizune bowed and excused herself with Mito in tow. "It amazes me how much she looks like you did at that age Tsunade. No doubt she's going to be beautiful as you as well." said Sarutobi with a chuckle. "I have a lot to inform you of. I've been doing a bit of housecleaning so I believe your transition to the position of Hokage will be a smooth one. I already have it approved by the Fire Daimyo…"

…

"…Shimura Danzo's dead and Homura and Koharu are locked up pending execution sensei?" asked Jiraiya in shock. "What the hell happened?" Tsunade was wide eyed and listening as well.

The Third Hokage chuckled. "Well, I can't take all of the credit. Danzo tried to recruit Hyūga Hanako-sama for his little coup and annoyed her; I trust you remember what happens when she gets annoyed don't you?"

"Damn." said Tsunade. "Did she leave a body in pieces or did Hanako-sama just erase him?" asked the medic with a shiver.

"Actually Hanako-chan just stabbed him through the brain with a kodachi." said Sarutobi jovially as his two students cringed. "Danzo had all kinds of illegal and bizarre body modifications that we have evidence are tied with Orochimaru. The autopsy was shocking so I ordered the body to be put into preservation so you could conduct an investigation yourself. As good as Doctor Akira and his team are I know you are better."

Tsunade said, "It sounds like I already have work to do. What about your two advisors? I planned to retire them but I wasn't planning to execute them."

Hiruzen shook his head sadly. "I wasn't planning to either but when we raided Danzo's residence, we found all kinds of evidence there implicating them in Danzo's treasonous schemes. They've been undermining my authority for far longer than I care to admit. I didn't want to believe it because we were former teammates but the evidence is irrefutable. Once their interrogations are over, they will be erased as 'honorably retired.' I don't want my last act as Hokage to be putting old friends to death publicly."

Tsunade pondered a bit. "It would definitely make a strong statement if it was my first act as Hokage though. Executing traitors and bringing swift justice would do something for my public image…"

"Well, it would certainly keep the malcontents from thinking they could mess with you Tsunade-hime." said Jiraiya scratching his chin. "It also might make Suna think twice about this upcoming war they have planned. With sensei advising you we'll be sure to be prepared for anything they can throw at us and I can start a propaganda campaign through my spy network. Coming out swinging might be a good thing."

"What about candidates for another advisor sensei? Have you picked out anyone suitable?" asked Tsunade.

Sarutobi answered, "Well, I do have someone in mind but I'm not sure she is willing."

"Who is it?" asked Tsunade.

"Hyūga Hanako-chan. As a former ANBU Commander I'm sure she would be a tremendous help in the upcoming conflict." answered Hiruzen with a completely straight face.

That's when Jiraiya started chuckling. "It wouldn't have anything to do with the fact you've had the hots for her for decades would it sensei?"

Hiruzen blushed atomic red and started coughing. He said in a scolding tone, "You know I was always faithful to Biwako-chan!"

Tsunade rested her chin in her hand. "Bless her soul, Biwako-sama passed away sixteen years ago and I know Hanako-sama was divorced before I left." Tsunade smiled slyly. "It might be healthy for you to be involved with her. Aside of the fact you would have some happiness it would do wonders for your cardiovascular system and work those muscles. I'd have no objections." she added with a chuckle.

The Third Hokage was looking faint and said. "Jiraiya has been rubbing off on you Tsunade-chan. I can't believe you of all people would be teasing me about my personal life." He was trying to sound authoritative but was failing utterly much to his student's glee.

Tsunade continued to smile. "I was simply talking from a medical point of view sensei. I'd bet a healthy, active sex life would make you feel twenty years younger. Do you want me to ask Hanako-sama about it?"

"WHAAT?! NO!" sputtered Hiruzen. "I can ask for a date myself!" he said blushing again.

"I meant about her being an advisor sensei; not your girlfriend." said Tsunade stifling her laughter. Jiraiya was laughing openly for his part.

Hiruzen sighed, "I see marriage has brought out the worst traits in both of you. Used to I could always play you off against each other. I am happy for you though. Mito-chan seems to be quite a bright little girl."

"I trust Hanako-sama can be found at the Hyūga compound then?" asked Tsunade.

The Third Hokage shook his head, "I'm afraid she's dwelling at the Natsume Clan Home; things have been rather precarious with the Hyūga Clan of late…"

…

"Good God!" exclaimed Tsunade as she looked over Doctor Akira's report on Hinata and the associated security reports. "I'm surprised the poor child isn't shattered."

"Young Hinata seems to be far stronger than ever thanks to Hanako-chan." said Sarutobi. "Hanako-chan says she is training Hinata to be the next Raven. She's already passed the Hakutsume blades to the girl and young Hinata-chan has taken to them like a fish to water. She will be absolutely fearsome in the future from what I can tell from her Academy reports."

"Damn, another ANBU Raven might be more than Konoha can handle." said Jiraiya. "I remember us three sannin got big headed after we survived against Hanzo the Salamander and she promptly handed us our asses. I was scared of her but Orochimaru was positively terrified."

"Orochimaru might still have a fear of her." said Tsunade. "I thought she was awesome once I got out of the hospital. We could use this. Anything that would throw Orochimaru even a little more off his game is a plus for us and could lead him to make mistakes later. I'll pay a visit to Hanako-sama soon."

…

"So how is my godson sensei?" asked Jiraiya. "It took me years to stomp out the last rumors that a Royal Uzumaki was still alive. I didn't even reveal it to his cousin Nagato in Ame. I damn near died at the hands of the last of the assassination groups. If it hadn't been for Tsunade-hime I'd have lost my life. What did you tell him about me?"

The Third Hokage sighed. "I didn't tell him anything about your relationship with him at all Jiraiya. He was a lonely child and he wouldn't have understood what you were out there doing for his sake. He only recently found out about his burden and his Royal heritage. He was so angry that he rained hell on Konoha through a series of pranks that would have made Kushina envious. Did you notice several of the buildings were painted rather…decoratively when you came into town?"

"Actually we did sensei, I meant to ask about that." said Tsunade.

"We believe through a series of complex seals and shadow clones most of the streets, buildings and even citizens of Konoha were pranked to the point we were essentially paralyzed." said Hiruzen. "Konoha was brought to its knees by the wrath of one very angry young man. It was brilliantly planned and executed. Had it been an invasion instead of a prank we would have lost."

Jiraiya and Tsunade's eyes widened. "Why isn't he in prison then sensei?!" asked Tsunade.

"It's quite simple Tsunade-chan." said Hiruzen in a flat tone. "We can't prove he did any of it. ANBU interrogation spent fourteen hours straight trying to crack him and he didn't give a millimeter. He's proven himself an absolute genius at fuinjustu. Our ANBU Commander wanted him to head up the ANBU Sealing team but since he's still in the Academy I arranged for him to be the ANBU Sealing Team's sensei instead. His reports on their skill levels have been most discouraging."

Jiraiya couldn't believe his ears. "A sixteen year old boy is that good? I can't believe he'd be better than our ANBU."

Hiruzen sighed. "Do you remember Kushina's black box?"

The toad sannin groaned and said, "How could I forget that infernal thing? I spent months with the team researching it. We never got anywhere."

"Naruto-kun solved it and had it open within fifteen minutes of laying his eyes on it for the first time." said Hiruzen in a flat tone.

"…"

"…"

"…IN FIFTEEN MINUTES!" roared Jiraiya nearly having an aneurism. "It's not possible! Some of the greatest seal masters in the elemental nations nearly lost their minds over that box! HOW in kami's name did he open that torture device from hell?"

Hiruzen took a puff on his pipe. "As I said, the boy's a fuinjutsu genius. He is an Uzumaki. Have you heard of the Arashi Seal Company?"

Jiraiya nodded. "Of course I have sensei! Their work is absolutely brilliant. Are you saying that Uzumaki Naruto is connected to them?"

He's not connected to them Jiraiya; he IS the Arashi Seal Company." said Sarutobi. "He already has over a hundred seal patents and is coming up with more every day. It's truly unbelievable."

"He should be worth millions of ryo then." said Tsunade.

Sarutobi nodded in agreement. "Naruto-kun is but he's keeping it in a secure bank account and is creating seals under a nom de plume to keep his identity safe."

"Why is he using a false name sensei?" asked Tsunade.

Hiruzen said sadly, "Naruto-kun is the village pariah. People hate him for the Kyubi. Even though he's Royalty and is the best seal master I've seen in generations there are places that won't allow him entrance or refuse to serve him. It's horribly unfair and when he found out about it, he was absolutely furious with me for hiding the truth all these years. I truly regret it. I hope I can fully make it up to him someday."

"So, what was in that ungodly black box anyway sensei?" asked Jiraiya. "I just have to know."

"It was the blades of the Uzumaki Royal Family; the Shippuuhime and Kurimuzo-kougou. I've never seen blades anything like them." said Hiruzen.

"They still exist?" asked Tsunade surprised. "The Kurimuzo-kougou was supposed to have been destroyed or sealed away forever by the Uzumaki Clan from what Mito Obaa-sama told me. She said that sword was evil and would accept no master."

Hiruzen nodded. "The Kurimuzo-kougo was sealed inside the Shippuuhime. When Naruto channeled his chakra through it both blades acknowledged him as their master and he was able to unseal the wakizashi from the katana."

"Incredible…." said Tsunade.

"It sounds like we have a lot of explaining to do." said Jiraiya. "I was really looking forward to meeting my godson but now I'm almost afraid to."

"We'll all sit down and discuss it with him together Jiraiya-kun." said Tsunade in a reassuring tone. "After all, I'm his cousin and so is Mito-chan. I bet she'll be really excited to meet him."

"I just hope he doesn't hate me…" thought Jiraiya aloud.

…

Natsume Clan Home, Monday 3 A.M.

Naruto woke up to his alarm clock and sleepwalked into the bathroom to do his morning rituals. Yesterday evening Maya-chan and Hinata-chan finally got their courage up and explained to him that they hadn't meant to kiss each other and were trying to each give him a kiss on the cheek to make him feel better. Naruto had been both relieved (he still might have a chance with one of them) and disappointed (the yuri kiss had been incredibly hot to watch and he was still fantasizing about it). At any rate, provided Yūgao sensei didn't try to murder them all for painting her and the others blue Naruto felt it would be an okay day.

…

Konoha Ninja Academy 4 A.M.

The class sat silently as Yūgao appeared in a body flicker precisely on time as usual. Rather than her regular strict roll call she had a very dreamy smile on her face and said, "I see you all made it. I was very busy this weekend and didn't have time to grade your homework. Please pass your after-action reports forward and I'll look them over later. ANBU Commander Dragon told me all twelve of you made it to blue base unscathed so well done." (Truthfully Yūgao was thinking more about that fantastic quickie this morning with her Hayate-kun than teaching her class).

Since Yūgao was walking on air all morning it wasn't until sparring that she got serious with her class. Things went smoothly and only a few mystic palm applications were necessary during sparring although Sai did get completely flattened for his new nickname for Choji, 'Thunder Thighs.' It didn't go over too well but Sai seemed back to normal after a nice hour-long nap from blunt force head trauma. Yūgao informed Sai never to use that particular nickname again (She wondered if the boy would ever learn). Sai was also wondering why Danzo-sama hadn't summoned him but it was still a well-kept secret that Danzo was dead and his cronies would soon be joining him.

…

Breakfast 8 A.M.

"Your first elective is elemental manipulation, but your second elective is teaching a class Naruto?!" asked Kiba. "What is it, creative pranking?"

Shikamaru groaned, "Now that is troublesome. Teaching first year Academy students how to prank people; are they trying to make a generation of terrorists?"

"What are you really teaching Naruto-kun?" asked Emi.

"I'm not permitted to say but I was ordered to teach; not asked." said Naruto. 'I probably shouldn't have blabbed it to Bunshichi-sensei. Oh well…' "That's why I always leave the last hour of classes is because I have to teach my own."

"Oh come on, you can tell me Naruto-kun." said Emi. "I might join your class and drop demolitions. Please Naruto-sensei?"

"Sorry but I really can't Emi-chan. I don't want to get into trouble with the powers that be. It's truly out of my hands." said Naruto with a shrug. Emi pouted.

The whole class was a bit curious now…

…

Academy Practice Grounds 12 P.M.

After an hour of water walking and tree climbing (depending on how well each student was doing); the class switched over to basic ninjutsu training.

Ino and Sai were both practicing a basic water jutsu to manipulate water into a bottle or canteen. Hinata had mastered that exercise already and was practicing a new water technique to her; the water whip jutsu. Since her chakra control was good she was starting to get the hang of it. Sakura was also practicing with water whip as well but wasn't as far along.

The earth wall jutsu was Maya's task for the day. Shino, Choji and Shikamaru were all practicing basic earth jutsus as well.

Naruto started with a basic fire jutsu that was useful for starting campfires and other small tasks. He was attempting to master E rank jutsus of various elements and build up. Emi and Kiba were doing the same thing.

Sasuke was practicing the phoenix flower jutsu since he was further along with fire. He managed to get five small fireballs off but they flew wild due to lack of control. Since he was aiming over the water four of them harmlessly fizzled out on the lake but the last one circled about wildly and set Naruto's shirt afire by some fluke. Emi smelled something roasting. 'Mmmm…Smells like something good is cooking. Is it chicken?' she thought hungrily. 'Well lunch is just an hour away…'

Then she heard Kiba yell. "Naruto! Your shirt's on fire man!"

When Emi looked over Naruto was already rolling in the dirt to put the fire out. Seeing the shirt was still smoldering Naruto threw the shirt off just as he was hit with a water jutsu from Yūgao to put him out. Yūgao body flickered over and helped him out of his mesh to examine him and started using the mystic palm on the reddened skin. "Are you alright Naruto?" asked Yūgao worriedly. Then she saw Naruto's rapid healing was already kicking in.

"I'm fine sensei; you know I'll be healed up in an hour." said Naruto

Yūgao suddenly got an evil smirk and Naruto got worried. "Everyone who is taking the medical justu class as an elective come over here and practice your mystic palm jutsu on these minor burns." Soon, Ino, Hinata and Sakura were standing there. "Alright girls, get to work!" ordered Yugao. She was counting on the girl's hormonal reactions to Naruto's wet, naked torso. 'Hahaha! Paint me blue will you? I hope those three get in a catfight with you in the middle while they're molesting you brat!' Yūgao's eyes were positively lit up with maniacal glee. On the other hand, she wondered just what kind of a workout plan Naruto had. Maybe she could get Hayate-kun to try it…nice and solid…

'Oh, yes! Come to Mama!' thought Ino with a nosebleed, 'I'm going to run my hands all over that body!' It took everything Ino had to keep from giggling perversely and drooling as she went to work.

Sakura was trying to be professional but couldn't help but blush. 'My god he's so, so…I thought that his shirt was just covering the mesh…' Inner Sakura was no help. 'Shannaro! An excuse to feel up a hot guy. I never dreamed Naruto would have all this muscle hidden under that orange jump suit!'

Hinata thought, 'Hussies! Stay off my Naruto-kun!' She was aroused seeing Naruto-kun shirtless and didn't want anyone else touching him (except Maya-chan and her). Hinata was healing Naruto's back even though she could see Ino was doing her best to feel up Naruto-kun's entire front in the process. 'Maybe I should just juken these two sluts into oblivion and heal Naruto-kun myself…' thought Hinata darkly.

Naruto was rather self-conscious about a bunch of young kunoichi running their hands all over him. Hinata-chan was carefully working on his back although the murderous killing intent she was throwing off was making him nervous. Sakura was healing his arm and was doing a good job but she was blushing and sweating from Hinata's killing intent. Ino was more like a kid in a candy store and her hands had wandered into areas that weren't even burned. She seemed totally oblivious to Hinata's death glare. "Ummm…I wasn't burned there Ino." said Naruto as Ino was running her hands over the side opposite of where he been burned.

"That's okay." said Ino. "I'm trying to be thorough."

Emi wanted to get a good look at Naruto but felt guilty at the same time. Her cousin Choji put a comforting hand on her shoulder and said. "Don't feel bad Emi. My first thought was of roast chicken too."

Maya picked up Naruto's scorched shirt. She wouldn't have mind enjoying the view herself but he was surrounded by kunoichi and she couldn't see. "Well, this shirt is a total loss." The left side was pretty much charred. "This mesh may need to be replaced too. It's discolored. You'd better get it checked at the ANBU Armory." she told Naruto.

"I'll…I will pay for it. I didn't mean to burn you Uzumaki." said Sasuke with regret in his voice. "Meet me over at the armory after our classes." Sasuke genuinely felt bad. He did want to beat the shit living shit out of Naruto but setting him aflame was a bit too much.

Naruto said. "It was an accident, Sasuke. I'll meet you at the armory around four-thirty." Naruto didn't seem to bare any ill will. After he assured the girls he was alright Naruto slid his mesh back on and sealed up his charred shirt so they wouldn't have to take measurements again. After that the class went to lunch.

…

Academy Class 203

Tsubaki-sensei was watching her class as chaos reigned supreme. Since her ex-boyfriend Mizuki vanished she had become involved with Umino Iruka and was very glad. She sighed happily. He treated her like a princess and…Nagi Souichiro (age fourteen) and his best friend Makihara Bob were causing trouble again. One of the other students was pestering Bob again about his odd name (he was named after his Grandfather that was from Lightning Country) and consequently Bob and Souichiro felt compelled to retaliate through absolute overkill.

In the following series of unfortunate events Takayanagi Masataka got clobbered with a desk that he blocked with his body to protect Natsume Aya who was oblivious to his obvious crush on her. "You could have injured Aya-chan!" he yelled. The normally calm and friendly Masataka then lost his temper and shattered the desk with a chakra enhanced strike and things went predictably downhill from there…

Tsubaki having had enough destruction in her classroom for one day focused chakra in her palms and clapped them together causing a sound wave that shocked the class and made their ears ring. "Ouch…" said Aya.

"Now that I have your attention class…" said Tsubaki with a beatific smile she reserved for when the class got punished. "I'm going to retrieve some appropriate punishments for your inappropriate behavior." Ten minutes later she returned with a pile of (unpaid) D-rank missions that the children would have to do after class tonight. (That way Tsubaki could go home and not have to mess with detentions –she knew how to work the system). Tsubaki was soon calling out names and assigning minor tasks. "Souichiro, Bob, Masataka –since you three caused the most destruction you will be sent to the Natsume Clan home to do a D-rank mission for Hyūga Hanako-sama. A stone wall there is in need of repair. I'm placing Masataka in charge since he's the most responsible. Aya; since you live there would you take them to see Hanako-sama?"

Aya smiled and nodded. "Yes sensei. I'm sure Hanako-Obaa-chan will be pleased to have that done so soon."

Masataka said, "I had no idea you were related to the Hyūga Clan Aya-chan."

"I'm not." said Aya. "Hanako Obaa-chan kind of adopted Maya nee-chan and I when she moved in a while ago. She's great and has taught us a lot."

Souichiro sat down in an open chair and said, "So we get to fix a damaged wall for your sweet old Granny? Sounds easy."

"It's got to be better than cleaning the Inuzuka kennels like last time." commented Bob with a cringe.

"If you two didn't get violent so much we wouldn't be in this mess." said Masataka in a resigned tone.

"Don't be such a goody two shoes Takayanagi." said Souichiro. "Deep down you enjoy fighting as much as we do."

Aya giggled as the three boys squabbled. While Masataka and Souichiro weren't the best of friends they did have a mutual respect for each other. Bob was convinced Masataka was the only student in Tsubaki's class that could beat both him and Souichiro in a real fight. He did wonder why Masataka showed so much restraint though…then again his best friend was Souichiro who had all the restraint of an exploding tag…

…

ANBU Headquarters 3 P.M.

Naruto had a lunch of being ogled by the kunoichi in his class and was a bit embarrassed. Even with his mesh covering him he was getting a lot of stares. 'How does Anko nee-chan stand all the attention?' he wondered. Walking into his classroom he immediately noticed the appreciative stares of the three kunoichi in his class; Mouse, Ferret, and Gazeru…Well, actually Hikari now. The two older kunoichi simply were enjoying the eye candy but Hikari was looking at him hungrily… "Hello, class." said Naruto. "Your new calligraphy brushes came in today so we're going to be discussing their qualities and how to care for them before we begin practice today."

Raccoon raised his hand. "Uh, is there a particular reason you showed up dressed in just a mesh shirt today? It isn't that hot out sensei."

Naruto said. "That's a very good but totally irrelevant question. My shirt was set aflame in a training accident earlier today and I didn't have time to pick up another." He turned around so they could see his back. "Note the discoloration of the mesh from the heat? After we finish here I'm going by the armory to pick up a new shirt and get the mesh inspected."

"Were you hurt Naruto-sensei?" asked Hikari in a worried tone.

"I'm fine." said Naruto. "Thank you for asking. There are several aspiring medics in my class and I was just singed."

"Enough heat to discolor mesh that much isn't just singed Naruto-sensei." said Mouse.

Naruto growled. "I believe we are here to learn fuinjutsu…?" The killing intent washed over them and everyone in the class quieted down. "Okay then; these are your new brushes. Let's start by passing them out and discussing their features…"

…

ANBU Armory, after class…

"Um, you really didn't have to escort me here Hikari." said Naruto as he was unknowingly being ogled by his student.

Hikari flashed him a winning smile. "I need a new flak vest anyway sensei. This one's almost shot so I was headed this way regardless." 'And maybe I can get to know you better Naruto-sensei.' she thought to herself.

Taro was reading an Icha Icha Novel with his feet propped up on the desk when Naruto and Hikari walked in. He looked up and said, "Uzumaki, Tomoe; you needing some new gear?"

"I'm afraid I need a new flak vest. This one's worn out and it's getting a bit tight around the bust line anyway." said Hikari. She was pleased to see Naruto blushing slightly as she took off her vest and showed her sizable cleavage.

Taro said, "I'll call Mura so we can get something for you." He turned to Naruto, "Needing a shirt or something Uzumaki?"

"Actually I do." said Naruto flatly. "I got set on fire earlier today so my shirt got charred and my mesh is damaged. I need it inspected to see if it needs to be replaced."

"Well, go ahead and take off the mesh so I can examine it." said Taro. "If it needs to be replaced Mura will get it; otherwise I might be able to repair it."

'Now this is what I'm talking about!' thought Hikari with a mental giggle. About the time Naruto started unfastening his mesh Mura appeared and grabbed Hikari by the collar. 'No!' wailed Hikari in mental anguish as Mura dragged her to the back.

"Come on Tomoe!" growled the 'always friendly' Mura. "You want a new flak jacket and I have to measure you. I haven't got all damn day!" They vanished through the double doors.

Soon Taro was looking over the mesh. "This mesh may need to be replaced; I might be able to patch the damaged areas to save you a few ryo but it wouldn't be as protective. I'd love to see the shirt that was over this mess." he said. Naruto unsealed the charred shirt and handed it over. Taro whistled. "You're lucky you don't have serious burns or scarring Uzumaki."

"I heal fast you know." said Naruto. He motioned towards his stomach and Taro nodded.

"Hmmm…still pretty amazing." said Taro. "Most people would have needed serious medical attention after this."

The door opened and Sasuke came in. Taro looked up from the damage and said, "I'll be with you in a minute Uchiha-san." It seemed Sasuke hadn't made the best impression on Taro in the past.

Sasuke just shuffled his feet and said, "I'm just here to pay for Naruto's new stuff; I kind of burned him a little earlier today."

Taro then perked up and said, "You definitely need this mesh shirt replaced Uzumaki. It's way too far gone." Taro hid a small smirk from Sasuke. "Tell Mura you need a full set of type two since it's more fire resistant. I trust that won't be outside your budget Uchiha?"

"No; no. It's fine." said Sasuke absentmindedly. It was obvious he would rather be elsewhere.

Taro slipped Naruto a piece of paper. "Give Mura this and she'll get you taken care of." Naruto slipped his damaged mesh back on.

About five minutes later Hikari came out wearing her much improved new flak jacket. "What do you think Naruto-sensei?" she asked as she twirled once for Naruto.

Naruto blushed slightly again. 'Is it just me or is that jacket more tailored for a kunoichi?' "It looks really nice Hikari. It's much better than your old one."

"I think so too." she said with a smile. It's kunoichi cut so-"

"You can visit later." said Mura grumbling. "Come on Uzumaki; let's get you fitted out again." Naruto handed her the slip of paper from Taro and she read it. She suddenly glanced over at Sasuke for a second and then smiled. It wasn't a friendly smile but an evil one. Naruto felt fear. "This way Uzumaki." she said chuckling in a disturbing way.

Sasuke couldn't help but notice the stunning purple haired Hikari and the fact she addressed Naruto as sensei. Since she paid for her jacket and sat down to wait for Naruto; Sasuke decided to talk to her. "Hello, who might you be? I don't recognize you from our trainee class but you have ANBU gear." Acting oblivious, Sasuke said, "I do wonder why you'd address Naruto as sensei though."

Hikari said, "I'm Tomoe Hikari and I'm in ANBU." She showed her ANBU tattoo on her right shoulder. "That is why you don't recognize me."

"Well, I guess you must recognize me." said Sasuke smugly.

Hikari looked at him for a moment and thought, 'Who is this arrogant person?' "Um, no actually. I have no idea who you are." Sasuke looked shocked and Taro had to cover up his laughter with a cough.

Sasuke said, "I'm Uchiha Sasuke. I'm very pleased to meet you, Hikari." as he held out his hand to shake.

Hikari looked like she was trying to place him. "I guess I would have recognized you if you had the Uchiha fan on your back…Anyway, nice to make your acquaintance." she said as she shook his hand.

Sasuke's eyes widened as he felt as if his hand was being crushed. 'Good god, she has a grip like a steel vise!' Trying to move his hand around nonchalantly to get some feeling back in it, he said, "I couldn't help but notice you addressed Naruto as sensei, I was just curious as to why. What could a genin in training possibly teach a fully-fledged ANBU such as yourself?" He was half expecting an answer like she was still in training herself. Sasuke figured she wasn't any older than him after all.

"Naruto sensei is quite brilliant and he is teaching many of us." she said with a dreamy look on her face.

"So what is he teaching you? I mean; his grades certainly aren't on par with mine." said Sasuke trying to impress her.

Her green eyes flashed. "That information is classified Uchiha. It is on a need-to-know basis only and you don't need to know."

Sasuke recoiled a bit at her forcefulness. "Sorry; I didn't realize it was classified."

She narrowed her eyes for a second and said, "No harm done then, but don't go asking around. You could end up is serious trouble."

…

Meanwhile with Naruto…

He was naked…again. "Damn it boy; you're growing everywhere!" grumped Mura. "All my measurements on record are useless. Here's your new protective underwear and your new combat grade mesh; try them on." After she checked his underwear and afterwards his new mesh that was much higher quality (ANBU Combat grade) Mura spun and punched Naruto in the gut. Naruto really didn't budge. "Good, you're progressing nicely Uzumaki. You're growing evenly and your muscles are rock solid. I bet you'll turn out yet."

Naruto asked, "You almost seem…approving Mura. What's the deal? –And do I need bigger shirts and pants?"

Mura shrugged. "You can get by with the shirts and pants; they're designed to be nice and snug for easy movement and have plenty of stretch. As for my mood, everything is being charged to the Uchiha; what's not to like?"

"Did Sasuke piss you off or something?" asked Naruto.

"When we were fitting your class out, the brat strutted in here at the last possible second and insisted we address him as Uchiha-sama for starters." said Mura. "Then he insisted we sew the Uchiha fan crest on all his shirts and his flak jacket. I kicked the punk out on his ass and threw his clothes out on the street after him. The village may kiss his ass but Taro and I sure as hell don't. You're good to go Uzumaki. We'll credit your old mesh pants to your account for later. They would have started riding up in the crotch something terrible before long considering how you're growing."

Naruto blushed. "Well, ummm…thanks Mura."

Mura nodded. "No problem; now get out." said the short woman. "I have work to do."

…

POSTSCRIPT:

Well, this was a good stopping point. Next chapter we'll see how Aya's classmates do one their D-ranked mission for Hanako. We'll also learn more about Hikari's background as well. See you next time. Blue out. 6/10/23