Living By The Mask

After Naruto and Kurenai's mission report, the couple left the Hokage's Office. Since Naruto had to make his appearance at Anbu HQ for him to handle his mission report (When an Anbu participates on a mission, not only the hokage needs a report, but also the Anbu member has to fill a report at Anbu HQ). Kurenai was sad but complied, anyway. She knew Anbu's life from Yuugao and Anko, so she bid him goodbye with a peck on the cheek, before putting his mystery black mask on and see him jump to the nearest rooftop and simply disappear from view.

After, Kurenai went towards Anko's house for a little visit seeing that she didn't have anything to do. Since her team was sent on a mission together with Shiranui Genma, she figured some girl's night was in order. She hoped that Yuugao could make it as well, but since she was on Naruto's Anbu team, she wasn't sure if she would be able to attend. Nevertheless, she guessed that if she couldn't make it, at least Anko would never dismiss such an invitation.

-At Anko's house-

Kurenai arrived at Anko's place and ring the bell of her door. A few seconds after, Kurenai managed to hear noises of someone tripping and slightly falling on the ground, mumbling a wide list of curse words to which Kurenai didn't know some of them until now. When Anko opened the door, Kurenai found she wasn't surprised when she saw Anko with just her fish net wear, showing a lot of skin. "My my if it isn't Kurenai-chan? How was your romantic mission?" – Asked Anko before grinning deviously upon seeing Kurenai blush. Kurenai for her part remembered the word 'romance' with Naruto.

"Anko-chan, I still don't know why you answer the door dressed up like that. What if it was some man instead of me?" – Asked Kurenai, not at all aware that Anko was once again thanking Kami for more blackmail material to use against her friend. "Scared of the fact that Naruto-kun may see me naked and prefer me over you, eh Kurenai-chan?" – Said Anko, emphasizing the -Kun in order to irritate the genjutsu mistress. "Huh, you wish! Naruto-kun would not do such a thing. Besides, with the way we did it together, we were both so sweat that I believed for a moment that Naruto was making a suiton jutsu". – Said Kurenai, making Anko drool at the prospect of such information. "Get in here now, tell me everything. Yuugao is coming over as we speak".

"Really? I thought she was busy at Anbu". – Said Kurenai to which Anko nodded her head saying that Yuugao's team was on leave as a reward from 100 completed missions. Kurenai responded with a smile, since she was happy Yuugao would be able to come to their girl's night. "Okay girl, come in here and tell me everything. Where? When? How? Details I need Details" – Asked Anko as Kurenai stepped inside. "Hold on Anko-chan, I'll gladly tell everything, but not before Yuugao-chan arrives, I don't feel like repeating it." – Said Kurenai, although the reason was clear in her mind. Man, if I tell twice, I might have to go look for Naruto.

Anko was slightly angry about not hearing about it first hand, but she shrugged it off, since she would eventually hear it. As Kurenai and Anko fetched for a sake bottle, Yuugao shunshined inside, greeting their friends who were already opening the bottle of sake. "Hello there, right to the point, I see. So, Kurenai-chan how was the mission with Naruto?" – Asked Yuugao to which Kurenai turned to greet the purple haired kunoichi. "It turned out that Kumo tried to ambush Naruto, by sending a falsified letter signed by Jiraya-sama. They were going to ambush him when he arrived at where supposed to be the rendezvous point. On the way, Naruto-kun found strange that no toad would appear to contact him, so he sent a kage bunshin ahead for information. Turns out that Kumo sent a team of jounins to take care of him. Knowing this, we returned." – Said Kurenai, as she helped fix the table together with Anko.

"Kumo? What would Kumo want to do with Naruto?" – Asked Anko, entering the conversation to which only Kurenai and Yuugao knew the answer. "Naruto ended up frustrating them on some of his many missions as an Anbu. He and Yuugao rescued me and my team from some Kumo shinobis a little while ago. The hokage even gave Naruto a reputation name so as to stop Kumo from their attempts, seeing as Naruto is now on their bingo book as an A ranked shinobi" – Said Kurenai to which Yuugao voiced her disapproval. "Why would she do that? Anbu uses masks for a reason, you know?"

"Tsunade-sama did it as a way to improve the village's reputation. I don't see the whole problem with entering an Anbu on the bingo book. It's not like she said who he is underneath the black wolf mask. I'm sure Kumo will think twice before attacking my boyfriend, Konoha's shippuu Ookami (hurricane wolf)" – Said Kurenai, proudly about being the girlfriend of the next famous shinobi since Kakashi no Sharingan, much to Anko's smirk and Yuugao's dismay, since she couldn't do anything about it, since it was an act from the Hokage herself and she respected Tsunade's decisions. "How did Naruto respond to such an act?" – Asked Yuugao with the secret hope that he would take Anbu's life serious and that Hokage forced him to accept.

"He did the same thing as you. Although he managed to express his anger towards Tsunade, not only for the same reason you said, but also for ruining his behind the curtain kind of life" – Said Kurenai, earning looks of surprise from Anko and Yuugao as well. "Behind the curtain kind of life? That's it. The brat I met was a different person." – Said Anko, showing that she stopped thinking of Naruto from his first chunnin exams and the new one. "That's quite interesting; Kurenai-chan, but I can see why he preferred such a thing. When I asked him about why he didn't take off his mask when inside Anbu HQ, he remembered me of his 'burden' as himself called it and said that some of the Anbu members would instantly remember what happened sixteen years ago. At first I figured that he was just being paranoid, but now I'm not so sure about it. Sometimes I even hear some villagers murmuring something about the demon was gone or something like that". – Said Yuugao to which Kurenai sighed, thinking of all the hardship he faced growing up.

"Sometimes I wonder if they would never forget it. I mean, Naruto can't wear a mask forever. Anbu has a three year service, after that, the ninja's mind start shattering after seeing stuff." – Said Anko, instantly feeling sad for him to whom Kurenai decided to step in; since she knows how strong her boyfriend is both physically and mentally. "Anko-chan, Naruto-kun will succeed, I believe in him. But enough with the sad stories, Naruto-kun is going to thrive as an Anbu and rise as a jounin. Now, as I recall, Anko-chan here wanted to know something, didn't she?" – Said Kurenai, winking at both of them, immediately getting Anko's attention. Yuugao for her part somehow knew that she would need to have some time with Hayate. "Well, it all started when…."

-With Naruto-

After saying goodbye to Kurenai, he was heading for Anbu HQ. On the way, he was cursing Tsunade for doing what she did. Sure he wanted to protect the village, but he didn't want to attract attention to himself anymore. Doing this is what caused people to look down on him or treat him the way they did, simply because they thought that he was weak and couldn't back any eventual threat. Now, Kumo was targeting him and he didn't like it. As he was jumping through rooftops and rooftops, a woman's shout reached his ears, actually hurting it a little bit. When he looked to see to whom belonged the voice, he wasn't surprise to see Yamanaka Ino shouting at Nara Shikamaru for being so damn lazy. Upon watching the display and utterly grateful from not being on the receiving end of the voice that could send the entire Inuzuka clan to the ground, Naruto mumbled his disapproval of the ones that he graduated with. Shikamaru was okay, perhaps Shino and even Chouji. But the rest of them were a lost cause.

Ino and Sakura were the worst of the bunch with their somehow voice enhancement jutsu. After a little time watching the two, he spotted Chouji arriving with a bag of chips on his hands. Naruto's mind immediately shifted to his time as a genin under Team 7 with Kakashi and just the thought of it unnerved him to no end. Too much egos to battle against, he thought. But he could only sigh and move forward, since there was no sense in dwelling on the past like that. So he got up and started jumping straight forward the Anbu HQ.

Shikamaru for his part thought he sensed someone watching his team, but shrugged it off when Asuma arrived with a B ranked mission near Iwa territory. Asuma for his part got to sense Naruto watching his team's antics, at the same time wondering when he would get to fight against him again. Asuma was actually considering Naruto as a future sparring partner, so as to not become stagnant since he practically let his chunnin team with all the fighting. Asuma cursed the fact that his team didn't bump into ranked missing-nins like the one Kakashi's team bumped into on their first C ranked mission. Naruto, maybe I'll hold on to that offer.

Back with Naruto, he was already inside Anbu HQ. As he went to the hallways, Naruto met with some Anbu members that he got to meet, at least the name of their masks, since he didn't want to risk exposing his identity from fear of people recognizing him as the demon vessel. As he walked, a voice suddenly talked to him, much to his dismay. "You seem paranoid, Naruto. You seem tense, relax. Ku ku ku" – Said Kyuubi, though he was furious of being ignored by his vessel. "Hey Kyuubi, long time no see. How is going? – Said Naruto inside his mindscape after entering inside a bedroom for Anbu members to sleep after missions inside of Konoha. "Ku Ku ku. Ignoring me again, aren't you? I wonder how much time can you do that Naruto. No matter how much stronger you are, you are still just human. I'm the king of demons." – Whispered Kyuubi with his strong voice, licking so much killing intent that Naruto was barely managing to hold his cool about the whole thing, but in order to control the demon, one must show him that either didn't care or forcefully shoving him inside the cage, which Naruto still didn't have strength to do. "Right, you're king of demons, yet not only you're trapped inside a human's stomach, but also putted it here by another human." – Said Naruto, before hearing Kyuubi roared, leaking more killing intent than before. "One day, Naruto. You will succumb to me and when the day comes, all of the people you hold dear, will be killed by my claws, just you wait" – Shouted Kyuubi, after seeing Naruto's mental image vanish.

Now looking at the room's door, Naruto took off his mask and started breathing heavily. Since he became a part of Anbu, Kyuubi made sure to leak some killing intent from time to time in order to let Naruto know the real enemy. Orochimaru and Akatsuki were just little enemies compared to the almighty demon. Speaking of the snake and the red cloud pain in the ass, Naruto was wondering about their whereabouts. He knew that Akatsuki didn't know about his Anbu status, since he refused to remove his mask when inside the HQ. His report only indicated his mask and his name as Konoha's Shippu Ookami and Jiraya was keeping tabs on the snake sannin to see who he would choose to switch bodies.

Now regaining his breath, Naruto put on his mask again and went out of the room. As he went through the hallways, he bumped into Hawk saying that their team would do a scout throughout the village, seeing as Anbu's information gathering squad found rumors of an S ranked missing-nin by the name of Raiko Shinomaru. He fled from Iwa after a failed attempt in killing the Earth Daimyou. Hawk also said that after this mission, his team would take two days off. "Oh and Black Wolf; Cat won't be joining us. She had the choice of not coming to this mission and took an extra day. I don't know probably wanting to catch up with her friends or something like that. She didn't want to talk to me about it; oh well we'll scout the village in two hours. Meet me and Bear on top of the Anbu HQ." – Said Hawk, before heading off to whatever he was supposed to do.

Naruto for his part bowed in respect, while thinking about the red-eyed beauty. He figured that Yuugao would get to talk to her as well as Anko. Huh, I wonder what they talk about. Little did he know that he happened to be the center of attention right now.

-At the girl's night-

Right now, Kurenai was on the part when she and Naruto lost all their inhibitions and just let their hormones take over. Anko was using her kunoichi's experience just to not take her hands and begin to touch her body. She already heard the first time Naruto and Kurenai had sex, but that was just foreplay compared to this time, either that or Kurenai was just exaggerating; either way the red-eyed kunoichi was telling with such passion and lust on her eyes that it was difficult not to believe her. Yuugao was rendered speechless once again and she tried to reach her mask to hide all the blushing which sadly was no near her at the moment. Kurenai for her part was now in trance for remembering the sex scene. At first, she began explaining of the romantic scenery when she and Naruto kissed under the full moon. Then she told them about the couple's teasing and afterwards all hell broke loose.

After some time, Kurenai finished describing the scene, wondering about the sudden wet sensation she felt near that area. Anko and Yuugao were in serious need of some male company at the moment, but since Anko was still single and they got news that Hayate got a mission, neither of the girls would be able to release the sudden tension that rose after Kurenai's detailed description that happened to destroy a certain orange book's reputation. (Somewhere, a certain white haired man felt the urge to giggle). "Anko-chan, give me that bottle, right now" – Shouted Yuugao, earning a nod from the snake mistress as well as a blush from the red-eyed kunoichi who regained her conscious after being in slight trance. "Sorry, I got carried away." – Said Kurenai to which Anko decided to add a little comment. "Gee, you think. God, Kurenai-chan if I didn't know you, I would think that you are the hidden author of the Icha Icha series"

"I know. I've never felt like this before. I….I think I had a little orgasm after telling the story". – Said Kurenai, still blushed that happen to match with her eyes. "I'll say. You were practically moaning Naruto's name on occasions. Damn it, Kurenai. How do you expect me to take you and Naruto out of my mind if you keep describing like that." – Said Yuugao before slapping her hands, covering her mouth so as to try to keep Kurenai from suspecting something, but sadly Kurenai heard it. "You do what?!" – Screamed Kurenai, mentally cursing her friend for such a thing and herself for being the one who caused it. "I'm sorry Kurenai-chan, but the way you described it, I was surprised that you didn't ran away just to find Naruto and ravage him….no wait…ah…Kurenai it's your entire fault. I'm on his team, you know." – Shouted Yuugao, blushing madly while hearing Anko laughing her ass off. But that wasn't what scared Yuugao though. After the laughter stopped, Anko was smiling deviously, which according to Kurenai and Yuugao's experience with the snake mistress, such smile only mean trouble. "Oh, I have an idea for you guys to solve this problem. Why not share him, how about it…huh?" – Whispered Anko, earning blushes from Yuugao and shouts from Kurenai who once again was not only cursing Anko but herself as well for once again being the cause of it.

"Have you lost your damned mind or the sake is tampering with your brain? There is no way in hell that I'd even consider such a thing. Naruto-kun is mine and mine alone. Besides, Yuugao has Hayate, right Yuugao-chan?" – Asked Kurenai, while looking for Yuugao for reassurance, only to see Yuugao still blushing, while zoning out for a moment. "YUUGAO" – Screamed Kurenai, waking the purple haired kunoichi from her thoughts. "Ah…yes Kurenai-chan, you said something?" – Said Yuugao, earning looks of anger from Kurenai who thought that her friend Anbu was considering the idea and enjoyment from Anko who just needed to do one more push for hell to break loose. "Nah..Kurenai-chan, isn't Naruto a stamina freak. I'm sure he can handle too women at the same time." – Said Anko smiling, before sensing a sudden chill up her spine that could make Orochimaru cry like a little girl after losing her favorite doll. "ANKO" – Screamed Kurenai, while starting to make hand seals before screaming Tsukyomi (Just kidding, even though would be funny as hell) Magen Jubaku Satsu (Demonic Illusion – Tree Binding Death). Before Anko realized, she was being hold by a tree, falling in Kurenai's genjutsu.

-At Anbu's library-

Not having anything to do since he had to wait for his scout mission; Naruto headed for the Anbu's library in order to learn a new technique. Going through the fuuton ninjutsu section, Naruto manage to find a scroll with an A ranked fuuton jutsu called Fuuton Kyomou Shippu no Jutsu (Wind Style: Fierce Hurricane Jutsu). After that, he sat on a table nearby and started reading the scroll. As he was reading, he learned that the in order to perform this technique, the ninja must know how to expel fuuton chakra from his body and then spin in order to create the hurricane. After that, the scroll said that the hard part of the technique was to actually control the hurricane once formed. No wonder this is an A-ranked technique, the chakra needed to control the hurricane would be quite large. Thank Kami she blessed me with high chakra capacity. After finishing reading the scroll, Naruto got up and head for a training ground, after registering his name and the scroll he took with the librarian.

-Anbu's hidden training ground #5-

After a little search for an empty training ground, Naruto found this one and marveled at the sight of what appeared to be a forest inside the building. Damn Yamato-taichou, do you need to go through this trouble. Naruto dismissed the thought and rushed to his new technique. Focusing fuuton chakra, Naruto waited as the wind travelled through his chakra coils, until he could feel it reaching all his tenketsus. For this to work, Naruto had to expel the fuuton chakra through his body at the same time. As he proceeded, he felt little gusts of wind leaving his arms, legs, chest, and stomach. Well, first part completed, now with the spinning. Naruto figured that a little copy of the Hyuuga's heavenly spin was in order, but with fuuton chakra instead of normal chakra.

However, as Naruto tried to spin, he found it hard to focus on the expelling part, since he also needed to spin very fast for the hurricane to form. After some attempts, Naruto was getting dizzy from all the spinning and yet the best that he could do was to create a little typhoon which lasted only five seconds. Man, the control needed for this technique is amazing, not only you have to keep the hurricane spinning, but also you have to throw at the enemy. Naruto learned from the scroll that this technique could also be used for defensive purposes, by only needing to control the hurricane's spinning.

Naruto once learned from Jiraya about how much chakra was actually needed for each technique and he remembered the old pervert saying to him that in order to see how much chakra is needed; one has to attempt the technique with a specific quantity of chakra so as to see if the technique needs more or less chakra to perform. Seeing that the technique was ranked as an A ranked one, Naruto decided to pump more chakra and hopefully the hurricane would form. Already spinning again, Naruto focused on expelling fuuton chakra, but this time using way more chakra than before, making the hurricane spin around Naruto, keeping him inside while he stopped spinning and kept controlling the hurricane's spin velocity.

Naruto enjoyed the feeling of controlling fuuton chakra. He actually felt like a wind god upon seeing that he could control the speed of the hurricane like that. But now was the real challenge. Spin the hurricane was one thing, but manage to move the hurricane at will was another. Since the scroll didn't mention anything about how to move the hurricane's position, he figured that he not only needed to keep the rotation, but also needed to force the huge tornado. But then again, in order to control fuuton ninjutsu, the ninja must not use force to control it, but rather actually go with the air current. If Naruto managed to use another air current and simply push the hurricane, he would be able to complete the technique. I can do the daitoppa without seals, but this takes a lot of chakra to proceed, but then again maybe I can do the hand seals, since the tornado is already created, I just need to push it.

Now willing to test his theory, Naruto ran through the hand seals needed for the daitoppa, managing to send the hurricane forward. The result was quite amazing and quite destructive at the same time. Naruto was glad that the hurricane dissipated after he stopped applying fuuton chakra for two reasons. One was because he knew how to dissipate and two because if the hurricane didn't dissipate, it would cause more destruction to the training ground than it already did. Damn, even without Hawk with me, I can still manage to destroy like this; maybe I should pay a visit to Anbu's demolition corps. See if I feel at home there.

Feeling the need to flee the area so as to not be hold responsible, Naruto left the training ground and headed for the library in order to return the scroll he took. Little did he know that Anbu have several hidden cameras around the training grounds so that the Anbu chief as well as the Hokage can keep track of the member's training. Tenzou wasn't surprised to see the hurricane since he knew about Black Wolf's unnatural stamina and chakra capacity, but Tsunade was speechless upon the image that was being transmitted. Naruto literally created a hurricane.

-One hour later / On top of the Anbu HQ -

Hawk and Bear were waiting for Black Wolf to arrive. Currently, they were engaging in a conversation about some Anbu member who manages to do a lot of damage to one of the training grounds and the only clue they had was that the member used a lot of fuuton ninjutsu, from what they've sensed when arriving. Deep down, they already knew who the demolisher was, since the only one they knew that uses fuuton ninjutsu was Black Wolf. Speaking of the devil, a little tornado appeared in front of them and Black Wolf made himself known.

"It's about time. Say, you wouldn't know about what happened on Training Ground #5 now would you?" – Asked Bear, though both him and Hawk already knew the answer, but just wanted to tease the boy. Naruto for his part, upon seeing that he got caught, sighed in defeat and decided to tell the truth about it. "Sorry about that, I was testing a new technique that I learned, but I didn't know that it could do such damage to a field. But then I guess that if you guys know about it, so does Tenzou-taichou and the Hokage know as well. Man, another bill I have to pay. If I continue like this, I'll be broke before I know it" – Said Black Wolf scratching the back of his head to which Hawk and Bear just looked at him for a while.

Both of them knew that was Naruto who did this, but they didn't know that only one technique manage to do that. Feeling the need to ask, Hawk turned to Naruto. "Ah Black Wolf, what was that technique you tried?"

"According to a scroll I took, it is called Fuuton Kyomou Shippu no Jutsu (Wind Style: Fierce Hurricane Jutsu). It's an A ranked jutsu, used against large crowds of enemies. Not very useful technique, unless we're fighting a war or against high number of missing-nins; however if I were to use it against a single enemy, it would be better to sign a death wish." – Said Naruto, managing to satisfy his comrade's curiosity but not their astonishment. "Man, Black Wolf, have you ever consider joining the Demolition Corps, I believe they have an opening for you." – Said Bear, earning a scowl from Naruto and laughter from Hawk. "Okay, team let's proceed with the scout. In case we find Shinomaru, do not engage alone. He is an S ranked missing-nin and as such, we have to at least consider him Sannin level". – Said Hawk, earning nods of recognition from Bear and Black Wolf, before they vanished in a blur.

After half an hour, the team reached all of Konoha's territory and no signs of the missing-nin or any indicator of his presence. Hawk, seeing that it would be futile to simply do laps around Konoha, asked Black Wolf to summon the team's tracker. "Right away, Hawk-taichou; Kuchiyose no Jutsu: Ace (Summoning Technique: Ace)." – Said Naruto as he slammed his hand on the ground before a huge wolf appeared in front of the team. "Hello Black Wolf, what can I do for you?" – Asked Ace to which Naruto responded. "Ace, we need to find an Iwa missing-nin called Shinomaro, our reports showed that he might be within Konoha's territory. Try searching for someone with master on earth affinity close by." – Said Naruto before seeing Ace close his eyes and start sniffing around the perimeter. "Black Wolf, how far can Ace track someone?" – Asked Hawk, instead receiving the answer from the wolf. "By focusing simple chakra through my nose, I can sense anyone within Konoha's territory. By applying fuuton chakra, the area is expanded, reaching Tanzaku city as well, since the air current makes it easier for the smell to reach my nose" – Said Ace before getting back to sniffing.

"Black Wolf, I sense a presence that fit the description, although I cannot say for sure that is our target. This person's chakra is comparable to a Sannin and I can sense doton chakra around him." – Said Ace, instantly getting the team's attention. "Ace, show us the way. Black Wolf and Bear follow me." – Screamed Hawk, before the team vanished once again in order to follow the wolf. The team was moving fast since Ace was kind of used to the fact that usually once Naruto was following him, so Hawk and Bear needed to channel some chakra through their legs in order to keep up. "Black Wolf, can't you tell him to slow down a bit, I can barely see where we're landing" – Asked Bear to which Naruto responded with a scratch on his head.

"Sorry about that; Ace cannot control his speed like we do. He uses wind chakra for everything; therefore it's safe to say that he travels using the air current. Be ready, I believe we are about to arrive at the destination." – Said Black Wolf, after receiving a nod from Ace that said the enemy was nearby.

As the Anbu team arrived, they came in contact with the intruder. Shinomaro was 6'4, with blonde hair and black eyes. Being known throughout the shinobi countries as Iwa's diamond fang, Shinomaru had quite a record. Being an S ranked missing-nin by his twenties, the man's doton ability was rival only to the Tsushikage. In fact he was next in line to succeed the kage position but Shinomaru got fed up with the way the Earth Daimyou did things without even bothering to inform the Tsushikage, so he took upon himself to kill him, being only stopped by all the Daimyou's guards at the same time. He received the nickname because of his taijutsu style that happen to focus on hardening his arms and legs with doton chakra, making each attack seem like being hit by a ton of bricks.

"Ah Konoha's Anbu is here to greet me, how nice. I heard great things of you guys. Come on then, I will take care of the three of you. Show me why Konoha's Anbu are so feared." – Said Shinomaru to which Hawk was already deliberating a strategy with his team. "Okay, team, listen up. This guy is dangerous and like Ace said, he is Sannin level, therefore we can't underestimate him. Bear, taijutsu against him, but remember do not engage him face to face, he got his nickname for a reason. Wait for his attack to come and counter-attack. Ace and Black Wolf, once Bear manage to distract him, use the kaze no yaiba (wind slash) sequence. Bear, when you see the attack, use shunshin to get away. The timing must be perfected. I'll be back up in case the plan is ruined" – Said Hawk, before earning nods of recognition from the team.

Being the first to attack, Bear channeled chakra through his legs, giving him a boost and appear fast in front of the enemy, who seemed surprised that the giant Anbu had such speed. Channeling chakra through his arms, Shinomaru countered Bear's attacks and also try to land a few on his own, but sadly to no avail. Proof of Hawk's ingenuity, Bear was only counter-attacking Shinomaru's attacks, infuriating him to no end. "Come on, attack you coward." – Screamed the missing-nin, receiving no reply from the large Anbu, who happen to be smirking behind his mask upon seeing that the opponent was hot headed. Bear, after dodging one last attack, making the missing-nin lose his footing for a second, shunshined out of the way, one second before seeing Black Wolf and Ace started rotating around the enemy while making hand seals (Naruto's case) initiating the sequence. "Fuuton Kaze no Yaiba/Kiba no Jutsu (Wind style: Wind Sword/Fang Jutsu)" – Said Naruto and Ace at the same time, throwing multiple wind slashes at the enemy while running around him.

When the dust cleared, the Anbu's team paled upon seeing that no harm was caused. "Shit, he used his ability to harden his whole body, deflecting the attack. Damn it." – Said Hawk to which Shinomaru laughed and responded. "Ha, that was indeed a nice attack, congrats. It seems the rumors about Konoha's Anbu were true then. But you will need much more than that to penetrate my defense."

"Black Wolf, any ideas?" – Asked Hawk before seeing Naruto making hand seals, which he didn't recognize it yet. "I'll try this. Raiton Denkou Houkou no Jutsu (Lightning Style: Lightning Roar Jutsu). With that, Naruto send a wave of lightning chakra towards the enemy, transforming into a lightning lion, roaring like a wild beast towards the opponent, making Shinomaru focus more chakra through his body, just waiting for the blow. While seeing the huge lion approaching, he was cursing himself from underestimating Konoha's ninjutsu variety. He only travelled throughout the countries that didn't have raiton users, which was obvious. His defense was made by high usage of doton chakra, so raiton would be his only weakness and this blonde Anbu discovered that. When the lion reached Shinomaru, he managed to hold the attack for a while, but he was flying along with the technique and the chakra needed for maintaining his defense was huge.

Barely able to cancel the technique, Shinomaru was panting on the ground. Man, I never thought I would have to take a chakra pill for this fight. Since he was a little far away from the Anbu team, he managed to recover at least half of his chakra capacity and feared that he wouldn't be able to beat these guys.

Hawk and Bear was looking at Black Wolf like he was a mad person. "Black Wolf, after this mission, I would like to talk to you. Now, the enemy must be weakened but be aware. He could have taken a chakra pill, therefore Black Wolf and I will finish him. Remember when I give you the signal for our combined ninjutsu attack". – Said Hawk, earning a nod from Black Wolf.

As they arrived at the clearing, they saw Shinomaru now slightly tired which meant that he took a chakra pill. "Iwa's Diamond Fang, we hereby declare your death sentence; may your soul rest in peace. Black Wolf, initiate the sequence" – Said Hawk as he and Black Wolf started making hand seals. Bear and Ace took a step back out of fear of being caught since they knew of the technique, but Shinomaru wanted to see the power of this jutsu. "Come on, Konoha's Anbu. I can take it; even raiton can't penetrate my defense." – Said Shinomaru, cocky of his ability to which Black Wolf and Hawk said at the same time, while molding the necessary chakra. "As you wish"

Katon Karyuu Endan (Fire Style: Fire Dragon Missile Jutsu)

Fuuton Chakra Daitoppa no Jutsu (Wind Style: Enhanced Breakthrough Jutsu)

Bear and Ace was taken aback by the new combination. The last one they did was a combination of C ranked jutsus, but this one was A ranked jutsus, at least Hawk's attack was considered an A ranked, but Black Wolf's was an enhanced version of the daitoppa, upgrading the technique to at least a B ranked.

The combination turned out to be a blast of white flame that engulfed Shinomaru instantly, burning him to a crisp. His defense could only hold Hawk's technique, but with fuuton chakra enhancing the flame, it was nearly impossible to block it. As a result, the team couldn't prove the man's death, until Ace sniffed some ashes that happen to have Shinomaru's scent. "Good job, team. Mission Accomplished." – Said Hawk before seeing that Black Wolf was kneeling on the ground, panting from what looked like chakra exhaustion. Upon seeing this, Hawk and Bear could only nod, since they remembered that Black Wolf wasted some chakra on his new fuuton technique before the mission. "Bear, let's go back to Anbu HQ so we can fulfill the paperwork, oh and carry our little powerhouse over there, will you. Gee, Black Wolf I never thought I would get to see you suffering from chakra exhaustion." – Said Hawk, earning laughs from Ace, Bear and Black Wolf. "Haha, Tsunade-sama said the same thing a while back. I guess this little vacation will be good after all." – Said Black Wolf to which Ace appeared by his side and nodded to him.

"Okay, let's go team. After we take care of the reports, Black Wolf, we'll talk about your abilities." – Said Hawk, gaining a nod from the black haired Anbu. And then, they took off towards the Anbu HQ, completely oblivious to the fact that they beat Iwa's second most powerful opponent.

-With Kurenai- 

After calming down and releasing Anko from her genjutsu, Kurenai said goodbye to her friends. Kurenai was thinking about Anko's teasing and Yuugao's red face after she told them about love making with Naruto. How would I know that Yuugao would be so turned on by the story, didn't Hayate satisfy her? Thinking rationally, Kurenai blamed herself from putting too much emphasis when telling the story. It wasn't that she lied about it, but she could omit some parts, as well as not moan Naruto's name when telling.

Dismissing the thought, Kurenai arrived at her place, before trying to search for her keys. Now, remembering that she left her keys on Naruto's apartment, since they were on a mission together, she hoped that he would at least be inside his apartment. As she arrived quickly, she knocked some times but sadly no one answered. Oh, the poor guy must be on Anbu duty. Man, don't they ever rest. I wonder if the door is open. To her luck, when she touched the doorknob and turned, the door opened. Huh, maybe I will make a surprise for him, when he arrive, huh bad Kurenai.

-At Anbu HQ-

After arriving at the HQ, Hawk and Bear left Black Wolf at the infirmary so as to recover some of his chakra and went to make the last team report for at least two days vacation. On the way, Naruto and Hawk discussed about his abilities. Hawk learned that Black Wolf had mastery over three elements, being suiton, fuuton and raiton. After that, they talked about Naruto's techniques and were shocked to see a not very wide list, but only useful and powerful techniques.

Naruto got clearance from the Anbu medic-nin and went back home. On the way, Naruto was feeling the stray of the fight, since now the adrenaline left and only pure pain reached his muscles. That lightning jutsu he used took a lot of chakra to use, but since the guy's defense was impenetrable, Naruto thought that it would work. As he arrived in front of the door, Naruto managed to see that the door was slightly open, which could only mean that someone was inside of his apartment.

-Inside Naruto's apartment-

Already inside and closing the door slowly, Naruto was suddenly overpowered by a strange yet comforting aura. It was filled with so much lust that Naruto's hormones were awakening faster and faster. As he was walking towards the direction of the aura he was sensing which seemed to be coming from the bedroom, Naruto found that his inside temperature were increasing dramatically. As he arrived, his eyes caught a sight that he would forever cherish.

There lay on his bed, the one to whom his heart belonged. Red-eyes that looked more like two sparkling roses looking at him accompanied with a smile that could make any man crazy, just by looking at it and a body that could make any woman jealous. There she was, the woman of his dreams, lying down on his bed. Naruto just stood there worshiping every part of her body. Kurenai for her part was enjoying herself right now. She loved to cause these reactions on her boyfriend, it made her feel wanted and it made her feel special.

The genjutsu she casted on his apartment was just one of her inventions to when she found someone to provoke him with, to arouse him. The genjutsu involved the creation of a lust aura that could make a person go nuts in desire. Now she saw the results of her creation and she was thrilled with seeing the blonde was fighting his hormones not to jump on her and start pleasuring her. Seeing that Naruto was caught in a trance, Kurenai lifted from the bed and started walking slowly towards her boyfriend, while swinging her hips sexually; eliminating any source of will power that Naruto was having at the moment. As she arrived in front of him, she moved her hands and started caressing his whisker marks softly, relaxing Naruto after such a strenuous mission. As he closed his eyes and smile, Kurenai could only think about all the times she saw her boyfriend smile and just made her feel calm and warm inside. "I love you Naruto-kun" – Said Kurenai, before she started kissing his lips passionately.

As she kissed him, she felt his arms embracing her body firmly and bringing her closer to him to a point that her nude body touched his Anbu armor. After they broke the kiss, Naruto just looked at her eyes and said smiling to her. "I love you too, my hime" – Said Naruto, before carrying her bridal style to the bed while never taking his eyes off her broad smile. As he landed her on the bed, Naruto started pleasuring her, licking her neck and with his hands, caressing her entire body, making Kurenai tremble in pleasure. After a while, she couldn't take it anymore and whispered closely to his ear. "You wearing too many clothes, why not take this armor off" – Said Kurenai to which Naruto smiled; "Care to help me?" – Said Naruto, receiving a nod from his lover.

Kurenai took off his chest armor and started licking his open chest, sending waves of pleasure towards the blonde. After a while, she went downhill and took off his leg armor and Anbu cargo pants, leaving him with only his boxers. Kurenai looked at Naruto with a devious smile and took off his boxers, freeing his cock. Wasting no time, Kurenai turned to pleasure Naruto by sucking it gently. To say that he was losing his control was an understatement; Kurenai at that moment was in charge of the situation, by giving him pleasure while caressing his arms and chest with her hands. Since Naruto was the dominant part, he ushered her to move the position so that he could do the same thing Kurenai was doing to him, making her smile so deviously that could make Anko look like a joke. As Naruto initiated, Kurenai was finding extremely hard to continue what she was doing, seeing that she was already moaning his name out of extreme pleasure.

After a while of pleasure on both sides, Kurenai moved to lay down looking up and Naruto landed on top of her, trusting it inside slowly, while making Kurenai surrender to whichever inhibitions she would has at this moment. As Naruto was pounding it inside, Kurenai was losing her mind, while repeatedly calling his name, desperately wanting more of his cock inside of her. Attending her request, Naruto initiated more deep insertions, making Kurenai moan ever louder and her hands squeezing the bed's mattresses, almost to the point of shredding the fabric. But this was not compared to when Naruto moved to kiss her passionately, while pounding her, increasing her body temperature dramatically up to a point that the couple was now sweating likes animals in heat.

Only in what could be described as a perfect love scene, both of them had orgasm at the same time. After it, Naruto was lying down with Kurenai's head resting on his chest, smiling like never before. "So, Naruto-kun; now that you have a two day vacation, what do you intend to do?" – Asked Kurenai though she was hoping that she would be in his plans of rest. "Well, I've never took a vacation, but I was hoping if maybe you'd be interested in having a picnic near the lake with me tomorrow?" – Asked Naruto to which Kurenai smiled and nodded at the invitation. "I'd love to. I only have to see my team in the morning and then we'll go."

"It's a date, then. Now, I would be glad if you'd like to sleep with me, I rest much better with you by my side." – Asked Naruto to which Kurenai responded by coddling with him and embracing him with her arms, while smiling. "Of course, I'll stay silly. Your chest is much better than any pillow I've ever had. And so, Naruto and Kurenai feel asleep together.

-Next day-

As soon as the sun light engulfed Naruto's room, the couple awoke after a wonderful sleep. Since Kurenai had to see her team, they made some breakfast for Kurenai, took a shower together and left his house, going on separate ways, with the promise of meeting at the lake at midday. While Kurenai went to see her team, Naruto went to Ichirakus, to meet Kakashi for breakfast.

-At Ichirakus-

At Ichirakus, a silver haired jounin was patiently waiting for the blonde to arrive, while reading his all time favorite orange book much to Ayame's anger. The stand owner's daughter along with all women across the shinobi countries, who happened to learn about the infamous 'Icha Icha series' published by one of the legendary sannin. Even though Ayame knew Kakashi because of Naruto, she was still angry at him reading the book in front of her, which didn't get unnoticed by the silver haired scarecrow.

No one knew this, but the reason behind Kakashi did read such a book in public was to provoke such reactions on women. He enjoyed seeing the look of anger on her faces upon looking at him with the book. But there was another reason to his acting like this, but the second reason was connected to the first. From reading it in public, he could as well analyze all the women who kept staring at him, in hopes of finding someone who wasn't at all affected by the book, but he had yet to find such woman and while he couldn't find. Not to mention that if such women was to not be affected by the book, it could very well mean that she could be as pervert as the silver haired shinobi.

After a while of analyzing Ayame's anger, Kakashi was awake from his thoughts when a blonde man took a sit next to him. "Hello Ayame-san, give me two bowls of miso ramens please." – Said the blonde to which Ayame nodded and proceeded to make while the blonde turned to talk to Kakashi. "So Naruto how is life in Anbu treating you? I heard from Hawk that your team managed to take care of Iwa's diamond fang." – Said the silver haired shinobi never taking his eyes off the book which unnerved Ayame to no end, almost burning her arm since her arm was near the cooking oil. "Yeah, the guy was someone else. It took our strongest combination so far to finish this guy." – Said Naruto, before picking up his chopsticks and eat the noodles with gusto.

"Oh yes, I heard about the combination. It's a shame though that Konoha don't house much wind users. Such a force would be well recognized and feared" – Mumbled Kakashi, before sucking the last noodle. After that, they ate in silence for a while. Naruto was pondering over telling Kakashi of Kyuubi's killing intent occasionally and since Kakashi could be around Konoha when the kyuubi attacked, he could have some answers. "Kakashi-sensei….were you here when Kyuubi attacked?" – Asked Naruto, making Kakashi divert his eyes from the book from the sudden change of topic. "Yeah…I was, why?"

"How was its killing intent aura?" – Asked Naruto, making Kakashi sweat a little remembering. "It was enough to start breathing for a while. You were practically immobile. Your body protested each and every moment. At the time, my Sharingan could actually see the Kitsune's killing intent. But why do you ask?" – Asked Kakashi though he knew somehow that the answer would be troublesome to say the least. "Ever since I entered Anbu, it has been sending killing intent through my whole body on occasions. At first, I didn't recognize the source, since as an Anbu, we're constantly fighting strong opponents, but last time I was inside Anbu HQ at the time, so he addressed to me with killing intent, challenging me to see how long I could control his urges." – Said Naruto rather stoic, but Kakashi could see the weight of such responsibility clearly through the blonde's cerulean eyes.

You're right when you said that the Yondaime chose you to bear such a burden, Naruto. Anyone would already be killed or succumbed to the monster's desires. "You've said it yourself that such a burden is yours alone to carry, I respect that. But if it turns to be hard to handle, don't fear turning to others to help you. Remember, there are others that suffered as well. If they could overcome their sufferings, so could you." – Said Kakashi, before lifting from his seat, leaving Naruto to pay the bill since it was his turn.

-With Kurenai-

After arriving on her team's training ground and seeing that no one had arrived, she sighed since that meant she could have rested a little longer with her favorite pillow, AKA Naruto's chest. Remembering the sensation, Kurenai smiled greatly. Even though it was rather comfortable to rest her head on his chest, there wasn't the only reason why it was so good. Kurenai always found quite strange that Naruto's body could exhale such warmth from within and while her head rested on top of him, she could very well feel such warmth, sending waves of tranquility and peace. Not to mention that Kurenai could hear Naruto's heart beating strong, telling her all that she needed to know about the man she loved.

Fifteen minutes later, Shino was the first one to arrive at the training ground only to see that Kurenai-sensei was the only one there yet. As he was walking towards her, he felt that her aura had another presence within, as if she was in contact with someone he knew before, but couldn't figure out who this person was. "Ohayo Kurenai-sensei" – Said Shino, awakening Kurenai from her daydream that resolved basically on Naruto's chest and the feeling. "Oh…hello Shino, where are Kiba and Hinata?" – Asked Kurenai to which Shino responded by shaking his head, signaling for her that he didn't know where they were.

As soon as Kurenai start pounding about tardiness and the fact that she beat her team about being on time for everything, especially now that they are chunnins, a huge white dog landed hard on the ground, making a little earthquake as a result. Upon looking at the late Inuzuka, Kurenai and Shino were surprised to see that not only Kiba was on top of Akamaru but also Hinata was behind him with her arms around his waist. Upon seeing this, Shino only rouse his eyebrows showing his surprised face while Kurenai smirked at the supposedly new couple.

Kurenai grinned even more upon seeing that even though they had arrived, the couple was talking with each other and Hinata was smiling heartedly towards Kiba. Kurenai remembered about Hinata's crush on Naruto when she graduated from the academy and also remembered Hinata saying that it was just a crush and that the only thing she felt for Naruto was respect from him never losing hope. But after some time, it seemed that the couple was literally ignoring both her and Shino's presence, she thought of letting the love birds know of her presence. "It's not that I don't mind seeing you love birds like this which I do, but we have training to do." – Said Kurenai, making the couple turn towards their sensei and blush from the insinuation. "Gomen, Kurenai-sensei" – Said both at the same time.

"Excuse me Kurenai-sensei" – Said Kiba, getting Kurenai's attention to which she responded. "Yes Kiba?" – Asked Kurenai, although a little suspicious since Shino looked her like that as well when he arrived, which could mean only one thing. "Why do I sense Naruto's scent on you?" – Asked Kiba, making Kurenai blush on the outside, but inside she was cursing her scout team because of their bloodline abilities. Shino for his part looked at Kiba now remembering what he felt different about his sensei. Hinata already know about Naruto and Kurenai going out but she wasn't aware of the fact that their relationship was evolved up to sleeping together. "Well, it's no use trying to hide the truth from my team. Damn nose (kiba) and bugs (Shino)"- Said Kurenai, although mumbling the last part so that her team couldn't hear. "As you all may or not know, I and Naruto are seeing each other, right now" – Said Kurenai to which Hinata nodded while Shino and Kiba were surprised to say the least.

Kiba for his part was wondering if something happened to Naruto since he didn't see the blonde for a year now. He figured that he went on another training trip or on a long-term mission. "You're with Naruto. I can't believe this. Sorry to disrespect, but aren't you a little old to be with him, Kurenai-sensei?" – Asked Kiba, before receiving a punch on the head from Hinata from his commentary. Kurenai for her part remembered of herself thinking of such petty differences and the fact that she would deprive herself from her happiness, just to satisfy some social standards. "If you would consider numbers, Kiba you're right, I'm much older than him; but taking experience into consideration, Naruto is on par with me, if not older in that regard." – Said Kurenai, satisfying Kiba's curiosity, but he felt like answering another question. "Kurenai-sensei, since you've been seeing him, you can tell where is he? It's been one year since I last saw him." – Asked Kiba, earning looks of surprise from his team from not believing that Kiba didn't know that Naruto was the one who saved them for Kumo's hands.

"Kiba, don't you remember the Anbu who rescued us from Kumo?" – Said Kurenai to which Kiba got to thinking and almost instantly paled upon remembering that day. He remembered the Anbu glaring at him with feral yellow eyes that resembled so much of wolves and the shiver that went up his spine. He was flabbergasted on thinking that Naruto could have such a menacing look when irritated, but if he was seeing Kurenai, then why he was angry at the time, instead of being happy that Kurenai was safe. "Wow, I thought that guy to be a super elite Anbu captain from the killing intent aura he licked back then, I would never thought of Naruto like that." – Said Kiba, receiving a nod from his team, but something was still amiss. "But Kurenai-sensei, if the Anbu was in fact Naruto, then why wasn't he happy of seeing you safe and sound?" – Asked Kiba, seeing that such question made Kurenai look down on the ground in shame from remembering what she did to him, that cause him to act like that.

Kurenai remembered of what Naruto said after she showed gratitude from him saving her as the scene now materialized it inside her head, showing Naruto with his Anbu armor and mask looking at her after she said thanks and said. "It's our job". She knew that he was in deep pain from seeing her together with Asuma and that comment made her heart crumble. Now she felt that her student didn't need to know the whole details so she just elaborated the relevant part. "Let's just say we weren't on our best terms then and just leave it." – Said Kurenai to which Kiba was going to retort, but controlled himself since he didn't mean to get into his sensei's personal life. "Now, team, today we'll begin elemental manipulation ninjutsu (I don't know if Kekkei genkai users can or cannot do such techniques); your family techniques are very powerful, but if the enemy finds how to counter them, you all need to have other abilities. Now I took the liberty of taking this three chakra papers in order to see which element are each of you aligned with. As you all know, there are five elements: Katon (fire), Raiton (lightning), Suiton (water), Doton (earth) and Fuuton (wind). Now every shinobi have an affinity with one affinity, but there are those who have more than one, although they are the exception. Now imbue this paper with chakra and let's see which element are you aligned with.

Doing what they were told, all three focused chakra and result appeared. Kiba's paper turned to dust, while Shino's crumbled and Hinata's got soaked. Seeing that her team only had one affinity each and the fact that Kiba wasn't entirely happy, she told them that even though being aligned with two elements gave the ninja some advantage, it didn't mean that his skills would be better just because of it. "Now, I'm passing an assignment for you three. Head for the library and try looking into the theory behind each elements as well as pick at least two techniques from C to B level for us to practice. Unfortunately, since I chose to be a genjutsu user, I'm not qualified to teach elemental ninjutsu, but in case you need extra help, I can ask either Asuma or Kakashi-san to help you guys" – Said Kurenai but just as she was about to dismiss the team, Kiba turned to ask. "Kurenai-sensei, do you happen to know which Naruto's affinity is?" – Asked Kiba, remembering that the blonde won their only match and thought of him as a worthy rival even now that he made Anbu.

Kurenai for her part wondered why he wanted to know about her boyfriend so much, but she remembered that Naruto won against Kiba on their first chunnin exams, so she smiled and decided to answer not only his affinities but also his other skills. "Naruto is an exception. He has Suiton and Fuuton affinities, as well as proficiency if not mastery on Raiton element" – Answered Kurenai, though she felt a little guilty of doing this, since Kiba thought of him as a rival and by listing Naruto's skills, it would blow away Kiba's confidence, but also it could help him, in case Kiba viewed Naruto as a model to surpass and become stronger.

"Wow, he isn't Anbu for nothing then. Alright Akamaru, let's get going to the academy, we need to reach Naruto's level then. Let's go my boy. Hina-chan, would you like to come as well?" – Asked Kiba to which Hinata complied and jumped on top of Akamaru, leaving Shino and Kurenai behind. "Gee, I forgot to explain about the elements cycle" – Said Kurenai before slamming her hand on her forehead.

"Don't worry. I believe we know about it, but if what you said about Naruto's abilities are true, then his elements can beat ours." – Said Shino, merely stating a fact more than trying to get stronger than Naruto. "I believe so. But since you have raiton affinity, he can aid you if you want to. He also can help Hinata since she has suiton affinity." – Said Kurenai, though that was a thought for later as Shino addressed to her. "Since my presence is no longer required, I'll be heading for the library, see you Kurenai-sensei.

After Kurenai waved him goodbye, she turned to look at the clock and sighed in relief from having 15 minutes time to reach the park for her date with Naruto.

-With Naruto-

After paying the bill from Ichirakus, Naruto walked towards the market area in order to buy some food for his picnic with Kurenai. Since he already knew what he needed, he went quickly inside, using a henge, so as to not arouse suspicion from the salesman. Naruto now with black hair, black eyes and without whisker marks, slowly picked the items of the store's shelves and went in line to pay. As his turn was up, the salesman looked at him suspiciously, somehow recognizing his face with the demon brat, much to Naruto's dismay, since he thought only to change the most obvious, like the whisker marks.

As the salesman was adding the price of the products to the vendor machine, he was looking at Naruto trying to associate him with the demon brat. Naruto for his part figured that at least he could pay the man quickly so not to be recognized. Fortunately for him, the man seemed to shrug it off, giving Naruto the bag with the items while Naruto gave him the right amount.

After he left the store, he dismissed the henge and closed his eyes. One year using the black anbu mask, Naruto forgot how it was to simply walk around without it. With the mask, nobody recognized him and those who found his appearance suspicions, instantly dismissed the thought thinking that he was an Anbu. Now that he remembered again how it was for him to buy things, Naruto sighed wishing that people would put aside what happened 16 years ago.

Dismissing the melodrama kind of thought since it wouldn't help dwelling on the inevitable, Naruto looked at the time to see that he was supposed to meet Kurenai in twenty minutes. Seeing that he was just a few miles from the park, he would make there in time for his date with the red eye beauty.

-At the Park-

As the Anbu arrived at the park, his eyes caught yet another photographic vision. Kurenai was laid below a leafy tree seemingly comfortable while lying on the grass. Upon looking at the tree, some sun beams were visible, making the picture even more beautiful. As he approached the red-eyed beauty, he landed the goods slowly as to surprise the kunoichi. "I come here to meet with a beautiful woman only to see a goddess lying on the grass below this leafy tree while bathed in sun beams" – Said Naruto, instantly getting Kurenai's attention as she smiled from the compliment as well as the man's warmth smile. "You always had a way with words. I'm glad that you arrived on time, but being an Anbu meant having to arrive on time, so I'm not surprised".

After that, Naruto fixed the little picnic for the couple, while taking the items he purchased at the market including Fruits, cheese, sushi, sashimi and some tea. Kurenai was surprised to see the items Naruto bought for their date, seeing that he managed to bring some good stuff along. She was worried about leaving shopping to Naruto, not because of him, but more because of the fact that he was a man and she knew that men and shopping never went along.

While eating, the couple was discussing about missions, ninja training, genjutsu techniques that were Kurenai's favorite subject. After a while, Naruto asked if Kurenai known of any genjutsu technique that could be used to alter the enemy's perception to which Kurenai, after a considerable pause, thought of one C level genjutsu technique called Heki Shuukai no Jutsu (False Surroundings Jutsu) that happened to do just what Naruto described. Kurenai was more than pleased to see that her boyfriend was demonstrating such interest in genjutsu, but she felt the need to ask why he needed this particular genjutsu. Naruto responded that he wanted to create a new taijutsu style called Genkaku Genkotsu (Illusion Fist) which consisted of disorienting the enemy with genjutsu while attacking with taijutsu or even kenjutsu.

Needless to say that Kurenai was impressed with the creativity, but also knew that such a feat had yet to be done. She didn't know of anyone who managed to mingle genjutsu with taijutsu like the way Naruto described and suddenly she got interested on her boyfriend's project. After the lunch was over, Naruto was lying down on the grass with Kurenai resting her head on his chest, being both in deep rest.

As they closed their eyes, two teenagers were passing by the park, since they were to go to the hospital. On their way, the girls watched the couple below the tree and saw heart on their eyes from the romantic scene, oblivious to the couple's identity. Haruno Sakura and Ino Yamanaka, both proud members of Konoha's gossip club decided to see for themselves who was the new couple.

As they arrived closer, they spotted Team 8's sensei Yuhhi Kurenai lying on top of what seemed like a beautiful blonde man with whisker marks well defined on each cheek. Sakura found the man's appearance strangely familiar, but she couldn't remember. "Sakura, this man looks like Naruto, doesn't he?" – Asked Ino, making Sakura go wide-eyed in realization of who the blonde man was. N…Naruto? And Kurenai-sensei….together? Sakura was visibly fuming at both her ex-teammate and the red-eyed jounin. Since Sasuke rejected her, Sakura was however confident that Naruto would eventually claim her and she wouldn't be alone anymore, but now that he and Kurenai were together, she felt that he lost her only hope of being with someone. Kurenai was older than him, it's not fair. Why can't she be with people of her age?. Sakura couldn't control herself anymore and stormed off to other way, leaving a happy Ino for two reasons: One that she simply adored romantic couples on the park and second that Sakura was visibly angry with him.

Since Sasuke rejected Sakura, she kept going like Naruto will eventually want to date her and marry her, since she thought that he still had a crush on her. To say that Ino didn't agree, was an understatement, she made it quite clear to Sakura that she disagree full heartedly with Sakura's thinking of trying to manipulate Naruto's crush on her to get what she want.

And now seeing that Naruto was with Kurenai, Ino couldn't help but smile at seeing that the couple seemed to fit with each other rather nicely. Naruto was always a strong person, so he needed a strong companion both physically and mentally. Sakura was physically strong, but inside she was weaker than an academy student, having a wide number of insecurities to deal with. I'm happy for you Naruto, Kurenai-sensei. Thought Ino as she walked away, leaving the lovely couple.

As the couple woke up, each of them went to their homes with the promise of a sleep over tonight from Naruto who figured that since Kurenai slept in Naruto's apartment, then now it would be his turn to go to her apartment much to her delight, since that way she could show her apartment to him, but at the same time scared to death if Anko or Yuugao decide to appear, but she thought that they wouldn't show up…right?

-At Kurenai's apartment-

After some time, Naruto knocked on Kurenai's apartment, while taking a look at the building his girlfriend lived in. The building was for shinobi only and only chunnin rank or higher could rent one of this apartments. After a while, Kurenai opened the door to reveal the blonde man smiling at him accompanied with a greeting and a quick kiss on the lips to which Kurenai gladly returned it and then ushered him in. Her apartment although small was rather comfortable. Since Kurenai lived alone, the need for space was irrelevant next to the real necessities, like bed, bathroom, kitchen and living room.

While Naruto was familiarizing with the place, Kurenai went to the kitchen and fixed some tea to relax a little, before they went to bed. Kurenai knew that Naruto's body still didn't recover from Anbu's strenuous activities and she was worried since this would be his last day off from Anbu duty, Although he did rest a while, he needed at least a full night sleep in order to keep up. After drinking the tea, Naruto found the herbs making its desired effect as his shoulders visibly relaxed.

Kurenai, feeling the need of helping her boyfriend to relax, led him to an armchair while giving him some chakra induced massage, that when applied correctly, it can relax the guy's muscles. As she initiated the massage, Naruto felt like every part of his body wanted him to surrender at the woman's touch and just let go, so he gladly surrender and devoted himself for the touch of his goddess. Kurenai for her part was enjoying the feeling of relaxing her boyfriend to no end and also a little turned on from his moaning for her name. "Okay, Naruto-kun, let's go to bed now and rest for tomorrow." – Said Kurenai to which Naruto nodded, rising of the chair and lying down on the bed.

As soon as Kurenai was about to turn off the lights, she could hear a familiar sound coming from the living room and cursed, while heading there. As she arrived, she saw Anko and Yuugao inspecting the place and finding some men's clothes near the table. "Guys, I…I have company here today. So…" – Said Kurenai, making Anko and Yuugao turn her heads to the voice only to see Kurenai wearing no more than bra and panties. Anko for her part was enjoying the feeling of further blackmail against Kurenai while Yuugao was thinking about who was inside the room. "Kurenai-chan, could this belong to Black Wolf?" – Asked Yuugao, showing Naruto's shirt for Kurenai who yanked off Yuugao's hands. "Yes, this is his clothes. Today is his last day off, so he's sleeping with me today. Because of that, I would appreciate if both of you shunshined somewhere else, maybe to Hana's place." – Said Kurenai, waving them off to which Anko and Yuugao complied, but not without Anko leaving a dirty comment. "Don't work him too hard, Kurenai-chan, you said it yourself it's his last day off."

After that, Kurenai got back to the room and lied down next to Naruto who was watching intently to Kurenai's lingerie and her beautiful body. "What was that all about?" – Asked Naruto to which Kurenai answered by placing a wet and passionate kiss on his lips, initiating the make-out sequence, which would after lead to love making sequence.

-On the next day-

The next day, Naruto woke up earlier than Kurenai since he needed to be at HQ in less than half an hour. Since he brought his equipment with him to Kurenai's house, he was able to sleep a little longer with the woman of his dreams. Now with only the mask left to put, Naruto looked at the figure sleeping peacefully behind him and smiled. Before he left, he wrote a note to her and gave her a kiss on the lips, whispering softly: "Sleep peacefully, red rose" – Said Naruto before seeing Kurenai smile and embrace herself even harder.

Now on the way to the door, Naruto heard a door knocking. Being a little afraid of being discovered, not knowing that her friends already knew about him, he was taken aback when a familiar voice called for him to open the door. "Black Wolf, it's me Cat. Open the door." – Said Yuugao behind the door. When Naruto opened the door, his team's second in command was there with her arms crossed, but without the mask, leaving the two of them to face each other without the mask since Naruto joined the force to which Yuugao was finding it hard to hold the blood from fall from her nose, even though she already saw his face once, but not so close.

Yuugao was feeling quite lonely lately, since Hayate always made excuses saying that he had a mission or that his friend Genma invited him for something. To tell the truth, Yuugao was jealous of Kurenai for having a boyfriend like Naruto, who not only is an Anbu, therefore missions day and night, but also he made time to see Kurenai. Not to mention that he is hot as hell. But since she supposed to be the second in command, she turned to professional mode and ushered him to present to Anbu HQ immediately to which he complied before putting his mask.

-At Anbu HQ-

Taking nearly five minutes, Black Wolf and Cat arrived at the location, only to find that their team had yet to arrive. Feeling the need to get to know Naruto a little better, Yuugao turned to ask him. "Well since our team has yet to arrive, why don't you and I get to know each other, since we not only are on the same team, but also have a common acquaintance?" – Asked Yuugao to which Black Wolf turned and said. "Ask away, then."

"How are your feelings for her?" – Asked Yuugao out of the blue, taking Naruto by surprise, since he didn't know he was being tested here. "Direct to the point I see. Well, I won't get into the whole history, since I believe you already know. Every time I see her, I feel the need to smile. Every time I see her smile, I feel warm inside. Every time I see her sad, my heart crumbles. I love her." – Said Naruto, making Yuugao smile behind her mask, but sad since she wanted to hear someone say stuff like that to her. "She's very lucky to have a guy like you, Naru...I mean Black Wolf" – Said Yuugao, who now was crossing her arms more firmly close to her heart region, trembling a bit.

Naruto for his part was confused after seeing such reaction from the vice-captain. Sure Anbu can be brutal, but then again he knew from Kurenai that Gekkou Hayate was dating Yuugao, so why she was feeling like this. "Cat, is something wrong?" – Asked Naruto now concerned for his teammate. "Ahh, well you gave me an honest answer, so I'll give you one as well. I've never told this to anyone, not even Kurenai or Anko and I'm not even sure I could tell you." – Said Yuugao clearly on the verge of tears right now. "You'll never know, unless you try." – Said Naruto, now taking away his mask, just to show her that she could trust him.

"Why did you take away your mask? Aren't you afraid of people seeing you like this?" – Asked Yuugao now taking her mask as well. "Two days ago, I went to buy some groceries and for the owner not to recognize me, I henged my face so not to be recognizable. After I left, I realized that living behind a mask, can only hide you for some time. I wore a mask my whole life, sometimes a break from using one is needed. Now, tell me what's wrong?" – Said Naruto, now turning serious.

"Well, I guess you know who my boyfriend is. For the past couple of months, Hayate has been avoiding me with missions and friend hangouts and now I feel lonely." – Said Yuugao looking down on the ground in shame for showing such weakness. "Yuugao-san, do you like him?" – Said Naruto, making Yuugao look at him with surprise, since she didn't expect such blunt and extremely personal question. However, after thinking a little bit, she couldn't find the answer, mumbling the following. "I…don't know anymore. I thought I did, but now I don't know." – Said Yuugao to which Naruto turned away, putting his mask and saying. "Face him and be open with him. It worked for me and Kurenai-chan. Now, put on your mask. Bear and Hawk arrived." – Said Naruto making Yuugao put hers almost instantly.

Hawk and Bear entered HQ to find Cat and Black Wolf already there. "Let's go team. A ranked mission towards Tanzaku Gai. Missing-nins approaching from the north in two hours, let's move.

-Anbu HQ's training ground-

After the completion of the mission, which sadly the Anbu team had to dispatch only twenty C ranked missing-nins from Suna, Naruto was found inside one of Anbu's hidden training grounds, fighting against five kage bunshins, using all forms of ninja arts. Right now, he was training combinations using physical skills together with chakra type abilities. Naruto once heard Kurenai tell him that genjutsu wasn't only to deceive the opponent for a finishing blow, but also to diffuse the opponent's sense of space for a while Naruto could deliver not only taijutsu but also kenjutsu strikes, if he ever took the time to use his fuuton ninjato. As the clones attacked, the real one made the hand seals for a genjutsu he learned from his girlfriend called Heki Shuukai no Jutsu (False Surroundings Jutsu) and messed with the clone's perception of the real Naruto's position, making him kick the air, receiving a direct punch on the face, therefore vanishing in a puff of smoke.

The others followed suit with a combined taijutsu combo, with two on each side, attacking the real Naruto. The real Naruto did a roundhouse kick on the farthest clone from him, sending waves of smoke towards the others, making the clones lose their eye sight for a moment. Needing to dissipate the smoke, one of the clones started making hand seals for the Fuuton Daitoppa no Jutsu (wind style: great breakthrough jutsu) using little chakra just to clear the smoke, but it was no use since the real Naruto went behind them, landing some serious hits on the clones, dissipating them and gaining what minimal experience the clones gathered about his new style of fighting while using genjutsu as a supplementary technique.

Meanwhile, Tenzou was watching Naruto's training with interest clearly behind his mask. He was to give Naruto a message, but as he arrived at the training ground, he got to see the genjutsu being used as a way of deceiving the clone into thinking that the real Naruto got the hit while instead the clone ended up hitting an imaginative opponent, leaving the clone wide open for an attack. Tenzou only did one mission with the now black masked Anbu some time ago to retrieve the last Uchiha, but he never thought of seeing Naruto fighting like that.

"Black Wolf, report" – Said Yamato, Anbu chief, with authority to which Black Wolf appeared instantly in front of him and bowed. "Sir, Black Wolf presenting for duty." – Said Naruto, saluting the Anbu chief. "Black Wolf, at ease. I'm here to tell you that your jounin exam is in two days, be prepared. Report at hidden training ground #2 at noon" – Said Tenzou, but inside his mind, he was thinking of the irony in the situation. When he first met Naruto he was a genin, now he got nominated for Anbu's jounin exam with recommendation from all his peers, including Bear who happened to be most skeptic member of the Anbu, when it came to measure other member's abilities. "Oh and Black Wolf…" – Said Tenzou to which Naruto turned his head in order to pay attention to what the leader had to tell him. "Good job and good luck on the exams" – Said the leader not even waiting to hear whatever reply the blacked masked Anbu had to which Naruto smirked behind his mask. 'Huh I am to please Yamato-taichou.'