75: Moving Forward by Standing Still: Part II

Naruto raised his arm to block a kick that would have rung his bell had it connected. Toka, the woman delivering it, looked surprised for a moment since she had cast a genjutsu that should have made it appear that she was actually still several steps away. She quickly back-flipped several times to move out of range. Landing on her feet, she winced as one of her teammates hadn't had the sense to realize that her failure to score a hit meant her genjutsu had failed. As a result, he received a punch to the jaw that sent him stumbling back. Naruto then followed it up by grabbing his opponent by his shoulders and then spun to toss him at her.

Toka sighed, but rather than catch her airborne teammate, she simply stepped to the side letting him sail past. She directed her gaze to her other temporary teammate to see how he was doing and could see that her genjutsu had also failed to take hold on the young orange-haired kunoichi that he was battling with. She was disappointed that the genin that she had partnered with, a man named Komugi, only just seemed able to keep up with the kunoichi named Moegi. Although, she knew she should at least be pleased that he hadn't been taken out already, she also felt disappointed since he had several years' worth of experience over her.

The other genin that she would be taking the Chunin exams with got back to his feet complaining, "What kind of teammate are you? You should have caught me."

Toka didn't take her eyes off of Naruto while she replied, "Had I done that, he would have used the Hiraishin jutsu marker that he applied to you to take me out."

She saw a smirk appear on Naruto's face at her seeing through his plan. She then flashed through several handsigns which cast a genjutsu that made her shimmer before disappearing. She quickly dashed to the side to engage Moegi, but had to suddenly leap back when he tossed a tri-prong kunai in her path. She frowned since although they had worked on breaking genjutsu and had even developed a method based on willpower. It shouldn't have been effective against the one that she had cast over his senses, since it wasn't creating an entirely false illusionary world that could be overwritten as much as subtly influencing his perception. Therefore, it should have been much harder for him to latch onto and break it using pure willpower. Not to mention, she doubted that Moegi had the talent to shatter the genjutsu that she had already cast thus far.

She suspected that their success in doing so was because of the missing third of their team. Still, since Yakumo would normally need to remain in contact with her teammates in order to disrupt the genjutsu she cast, her lack of presence was concerning for Toka. Particularly since she knew the Kurama Clan were working on ways to disrupt genjutsu in combat situations where they were much harder to detect. Guessing one such tactic was being employed currently, she looked for any sign that may indicate how she was counteracting her illusions.

Figuring that the way to expose the method would be to make the Kurama heir focus on breaking more complex illusions. She was about to cast a multilayered one, but then had to leap up and away as her teammate foolishly ran up to her on his way to engage Naruto despite her telling him that he had been marked by the Hiraishin. Just as she expected, Naruto disappeared and reappeared in a red flash. But, not finding Toka in range any longer grabbed the startled genin named Gennai and then tossed him at his teammate.

Gennai acted as the kunai again, but was caught by Komugi rather than be bowled over by his flying teammate. They still ended up an entangled mass of limbs when Naruto teleported before them and then dropped down to sweep their legs.

Toka shook her head again from the canopy of leaves that she was hiding within, but quickly cast a multilayered genjuts that caused the two hopeless genin to fade away from Naruto and Moegi's view. She could tell it worked as both of them began to look around as if afraid they would be attacked. She then noticed what appeared to be a glint cast by a wire, and almost immediately Moegi recovered. She also had the presence of mind to reach for Naruto, but it was apparent she lacked the skill to break the higher level genjutsu that had been cast.

She smirked as she realized the trick, and pulling a shuriken targeted near the nape of Moegi's neck. Tossing it, her projectile cut the thin, nearly transparent wire attached to the back of the orange haired woman's neck so that when she recast her relatively simple genjutsu that erased her presence. Neither Moegi nor Naruto sensed it as she landed behind them. She felt a strange sense of vertigo as she landed and spotted Yakumo breaking from cover to warn her teammates. But ignoring the Kurama heir, she lashed out with a kick that would have hit Moegi and sent her into Naruto. However, it instead passed harmlessly through the young woman.

Toka cursed when she realized that the sense of vertigo had been Yakumo casting a genjutsu on her so that she misjudged the distance between Naruto and Moegi. A moment later she was tackled to the ground, and found a blunted kunai pressed up against her throat.

The Senju was about to admit defeat when three masked kunoichi landed at the edge of the clearing. The one in the middle said, "Now combination attack."

The two kunoichi on either side of the one that issued the command began to flash through several handsigns. Then the one to the right of the leader brought her hand up to her mouth and fired a stream of fire. The one to the left mirrored her action but fired a jet of water. The two kunoichi had selected a point several feet away from the group of Leaf Shinobi so that when the two jutsu hit each other a cloud of steam began to cover the area.

Yakumo rolled over Toka and quickly ran to where Naruto and Moegi where standing and still trying to free themselves from the Senju's genjutsu. She made short work of it, before motioning to the trees as she leapt up towards a branch. Her teammates quickly followed suit upon seeing the cloud approaching them.

Toka's own teammates had just untangled themselves, but froze upon seeing the steam approaching them. Cursing them, she threw a kunai attached to a rope at them which wrapped around the two men's legs. Then leaping high into the tree that she had selected, she wrapped it around a branch as she fell down to the branch she had selected as her perch. The roped pulled the two men off their feet and into the air so that they hung upside down next to her moments before the steam would have washed over them.

"Um… can you let us down?" Gennai asked, tempting Toka to just let go of the rope. But, before she could, the leader of the kunoichi that had attacked them leapt up to the branch she was standing on. She then engaged the Senju forcing the woman to ward her while also preventing her teammates from falling.

Toka had to use chakra to remain affixed to the branch as the two men weighed much more than her. But it did allow her to raise one of her legs when needed to block. She surprised her opponent by suddenly cutting chakra to her feet so that she was pulled in the air, and when she was about chest height with her opponent she lashed out with both feet catching the woman in the chest. The masked kunoichi grunted as she stumbled backwards until bouncing into the trunk of the tree.

Toka let out a grunt of pain as well when she reached the branch that she had wrapped the rope around. Then she used her feet and chakra to anchor herself to the bottom it to stop her yelling teammates from crashing into the ground head first. At least until she was sure they wouldn't die from it as she then let go of the rope because she needed her hands to block when the kunoichi leapt to the underside of the branch with her.

Still, with both her hands free she found her taijutsu skills were the stronger of the two since she soon began pushing the woman back. However, she was forced to divert her attention once Naruto landed behind her, and began attacking as well. Still, it didn't put her at a total disadvantage because the kunoichi would occasional lash out with a kick or punch meant for him when Toka would dodge while he was closing with her.

Tired of being trapped in the middle, she leapt down to the branch that she had started out on, and then to the ground. She used the masked kunoichi engaging with Naruto to move to where Naruto's teammates were fighting against the other two masked women. The fight proved to be rather evenly matched, at least until she arrived.

She led with a leaping kick that caught Moegi in the chest so that she flew back several feet and landed on her back. The orange-haired kunoichi groaned as although the kick was not delivered as viciously as it could have been. Toka wasn't exactly known for holding back. The masked kunoichi that the orange haired girl had been engaged with tried to deliver a strike to the back of her skull, but Toka ducked beneath it and spinning into a crouch hooked her arm just beneath the woman's knee and flipped her off of her feet. The masked woman landed on her stomach and groaned, but quickly tried to get back to her feet. At least until Toka stepped on her back to then leap into the air heading towards Yakumo and the remaining masked kunoichi.

She descended between the two women and kicked out at both of them, and caught the two women in the chest causing them to fall back. She smiled pleased with herself as the four women groaned around her, especially as Naruto said, "I don't think anyone will complain if we end the training here."

She turned to see Naruto holding the remaining masked kunoichi over his shoulder. The woman struggled futilely due to his using the rope that Toka had used earlier to bind her teammates. He set her down gently, and undid the knot so that she could stand.

The masked woman quickly darted off with her two partners as she saw Komugi running up with his teammate and asked Naruto heatedly, "Who the heck were those kunoichi? We didn't agree to some kind of three way spar."

Naruto answered as he said calmly, "I hired them to be a surprise. They'll be popping into our spars from time to time."

"But who are they," Gennai asked quickly.

Naruto shrugged as he said, "Can't tell you. A part of the tactic is that they might be different each time."

Komugi still didn't look pleased as he crossed his arms to ask, "What is the point of surprising us like that? We could have responded using deadly force."

Toka had been caught off-guard as well, and did admit there had been a potential safety issue with their sudden arrival. But, she could appreciate the reason so quickly said, "You mean I could have responded using deadly force. You two froze like rank amateurs."

Her teammates looked hurt by her brusque observation of how they had reacted. Toka for a moment felt like she had kicked a puppy, and blamed Naruto's influence as in the past she would have quickly told them to suck it up. Still she didn't apologize because she had meant it, but Naruto softened her statement somewhat when he said, "Which is why I hired them to help out. I don't even know which training sessions they'll appear at."

"But why Boss," Moegi said still rubbing her chest where Toka had kicked her. "It's not like any group is going to be strong enough to best you."

"Don't be a fool," Toka said quickly causing Moegi to glare at her. But, the orange-haired kunoichi look melted into a self-conscious one as the Senju added, "Today's training was an excellent example of the chaos we should and will probably encounter during the exam. Most of you here are washouts from the previous exams."

She sighed as she watched everyone but Yakumo wilt from her words. Although, she did smile softly at Naruto muttering, "It's not fair I'm still a genin, since I ended up beating Neji."

Yakumo patted Naruto's back supportively while she said, "That's right you did. Which is probably the only reason why he was delayed somewhat in becoming a jounin."

Naruto sagged forward even more at the reminder causing Toka's smile to grow a little more. But, she got ahold of herself as she cleared her throat to remind everyone, "The point is you should know that these exams are not just based on strength. With that being the situation, it was rather clever to create such a surprise for us because there is no guarantee a third or even fourth party wouldn't try to take advantage of a situation where we were focused on each other. I find these exams quite beautifully capture the truth chaos and contradiction of war."

"Contradiction and chaos," Naruto said tilting his head in confusion as he folded his arms across his chest.

Toka nodded, and then answered, "Yes, take how they require a team to participate, but then it becomes a contest of individual skill. Wars can be said to be the same thing, fought by units of warriors, but then defined by the contributions of individuals. It is a true balance of give and take. My niece for example is recognized as being one of the Legendary Three, a strong unit. But they gained that moniker by fighting a much stronger individual in Hanzo the Salamander. If they had fought him individually then they would just be more of his victims, or if he had fought them as part of a stronger unit instead of by himself then he would have likely managed to win as well."

"I see your point," Naruto said after a moment trusting in the Senju's vast experience with war due to her coming from the Warring Clans time period. Also because of that experience, he wanted to drive home the point for the others so said, "I know when it comes to taking the exams most of your experience actually trumps mine. But, what mine taught me was that anything can happen." He could see his words seemed to resonate with everyone, although Yakumo likely still had a hard time picturing what he meant since it would be her first time taking them.

"We should also consider that these exams may prove far deadlier then the ones that have come before," Toka added with the idea coming as a shock to Naruto. It also seemed to send a small chill through the others who had participated in the Chunin Exams as well. Explaining what she meant she said, "Keep in mind that it has been a little over a year in a half since the last exam. Since the next exam seems to be scheduled for around the end of the summer, it will actually be closer to two and a half."

"What's your point?" Komugi said with a shrug, "Gennai and I have taken six exams. Granted they got a little harder after Inaho was promoted, but that's because we keep having to find new partners when they rolled around."

"Something for which those poor souls have my deepest sympathies," Toka replied still annoyed at the pair.

Gennai looked like he was about to retort that working with her was no walk in the park, but Naruto stepped in by saying, "What Toka is saying is that in the past, the best rise to the rank of chunin, while the rest begin making plans for next year. In fact, you could say that the reason the exams were held every six months was to prevent an accumulation of top talent from participating at one time."

"That is correct," Toka said seeing that Naruto's teammates were at least catching on. Focusing her explanation primarily towards her own, she added, "Due to the success of the Alliance in expanding its membership, there will be Kumo-nin participating for the first time. But because of this it took time to structure the exams to all of the alliance members liking. This meant that genin could not be promoted."

"Which I don't understand," Moegi said finding a reason to interject. "Naruto has done plenty that most jounin are not able to match. Why not just promote him and be done with it?"

Toka focused on the girl before adding somewhat annoyed since in her effort to praise him, she left out the fact that she had years of actual combat experience under her belt. As such, she was about to respond rather cattily but Naruto stepped in saying, "Don't forget Toka has been a warrior longer than all of us, and was thrown into it at an extremely young age."

Moegi frowned that Naruto ignored her praise in favor of stroking the Senju's ego. Particularly because she had purposefully ignored mentioning her accomplishments. Toka held back from smirking as she had noticed the orange-haired kunoichi's reaction, but primarily because she wanted to hammer her point home. Therefore, she explained, "Chunin even more so then Jounin are the workhorse of an army. This was as true in my time as it is now. It is just that genin were not as coddled as they are now." She knew that came off sounding insulting so quickly added, "I mean of course that we would never have wasted genin painting fences or walking dogs."

Yakumo took the moment Toka gave to make sure none of the others were going to react negatively to her statement to add, "My uncle said that back before the Chunin Exams, genin were promoted based on merits. But, the villages used to monitor this so that when they noticed large influxes of Chunin promotions, they would suspect that the village in question was preparing for a battle or war."

Toka nodded before continuing, "Very true, which is why after the First Shinobi World War it appears the Chunin Exam method was put in place. It is also the true reason why the villages hold them in such an open manner that encourages spying. In this way, they show that the others villages that they aren't hiding anything, but also give them a chance to see the competition so they can gauge how deserving the applicants are."

"It seems to me that this might make some of the other villages more nervous, not less," Naruto said crossing his arms in thought.

Toka shrugged her shoulders before replying, "Well keep in mind, that the number of participants that have actually fought and beat a man possessing a Dojutsu that was thought to be only legend even in my time are few and far between." She smiled from the way Naruto reacted with some embarrassment to her praise as it reminded her very much of the humble nature of her cousin Hashirama. She also noted that Moegi seemed displeased with his reaction particularly as hers hadn't generated similar results. "But, in spite of that being the case, the time that has progressed since the last exam does mean that the foes we seek will be tougher and more seasoned. Plus, I doubt very many sensei would let their students linger in training limbo because it took so long to organize these events. Therefore, jutsu that normally wouldn't be a part of the training regimen for genin with one or two years under their belt will suddenly be a part of the mix."

"Not to mention," Naruto said folding his hands behind his head, "a lot of people are going to be using this venue to display those skills. In all the tests they can, because it can lead to promotions even if they do not make it to the final round." Focusing on Toka's teammates he explained, "The rules for Chunin Exam promotions are rather fluid. But, it is only during the period of time an exam is hold. Granted, most of the glory and honor is heaped on the winner of the whole thing. But, participate well enough in any of the tests leading up to it can get you promoted as well. Your teammate Inaho for example was promoted because she caught Ibiki's eye during her last Chunin Exam."

"Why weren't you promoted then Boss?" Moegi asked with genuine curiosity. "I mean you beat someone that was heavily favored and labeled as a genius. You should have caught a few people's eyes then."

Naruto gave a reaction similar to when Toka had praised him, and the Senju suspected it was because it was more heartfelt rather than to just appeal to his ego. He gave validation to her belief as he replied, "Because, getting by on guts alone is a skill that doesn't exactly scream give this guy more responsibility. The truth is I didn't display a single skill set that was worthy of promotion."

"I don't know," Yakumo said, "My uncle seemed impressed with your victory over Neji. He isn't exactly one that praises lightly, and he said you had a good head for tactics."

Naruto chuckled, but wondered how the elder Kurama would react upon knowing the niece that he was so protective of was sleeping with him. Particularly as he had not been happy when she had moved into the Hidden Eddy Inn after turning the traditional Kurama residence into a barracks for all the clan members that had been dismissed in the past due to their lack of talent with genjutsu. Focusing on her, he replied, "Well, that might be true. But in that exam I thought quickly on my feet after finding myself in a hopeless situation. Most of my tactics were spur of the moment, and that isn't exactly someone you want to entrust other people's lives too. I might get you out of a situation after the excrement hits the fan, but you want someone in charge that avoids it all together."

"Precisely," Toka said leading the topic back to her original point, "With so many people looking to advance and perhaps on edge as they are unsure when they can expect a future exam. We need to expect steep competition, and although killing opponents might not be the end result desired by those in charge. Nobody will be pulling any punches. Plus, there are exams that to my understanding do not happen strictly under the gaze of a proctor. There will be some that use this opportunity to truly cut loose."

Naruto figured the last portion was more for Yakumo's benefit as he could see the others had likely experienced such before. Glad to see everyone was aware of the danger he said, "Let's try to get together again in a few weeks. We'll pool our collective experience to see what elements were the same over the years to create scenarios of our own. It might have some new elements due to Kumogakure's involvement, but I'm sure some themes will be familiar. Let's do our best to hone our skills in the area's we know are lacking, and I'm sure we'll all be celebrating our promotions this time around."

************************

The others nodded and began to gather their gear. Naruto noticed that Yakumo slipped away first and he suspected that she was in a hurry to report some of the strengths and limitations of the jutsu that her clan had devised to break genjutsu. He reached up to the back of his neck, and frowned when he felt the fleshed colored piece of tape under which the wire that she had used to channel her chakra was affixed. Not exactly in a hurry to remove it, he figured he could have one of his lovers, who if he was a big boy about it might give him a good sucking, instead of a sucker.

His frowned deepened as he suspected that he should have received an earful from the Kurama Leader since she had asked him not to Hiraishin since it would destroy the wire. But, he was of the opinion that the group conversation they just had might have pushed it to the back of her mind. He began to apply his own to coming up with an apology in advance to her remembering. But he was interrupted in the task once he finished collecting his gear and nearly ran over Moegi when he turned to leave as she was standing just behind him.

"Whoa," he said pulling up short. "What's up Moegi?"

The orange haired kunoichi look down as she folded her hands behind her back, and with the tip of one foot behind her drilling a small hole in the dirt said nervously, "Well… I was actually hoping we could get a little one on one training in."

She looked up expectantly, and for a moment Naruto flashed back to when they were both younger where she, Udon, and Konohamaru would seek him out to play shinobi. She would give him a similar look back then as she waited for his reply, although he would say that there was definitely a more adult interest lurking in her gaze now. Yet, despite his still feeling bad whenever he had disappointed the trio, although he wasn't sure how disappointed Udon actually was, he answered, "Sorry, Moegi. I really need to track down those three that joined our spar and thank them. Then I have to get ready for tomorrow as I'll be escorting a client to the Land of Birds for a mission. We'll definitely find some time to spar though, I promise."

Moegi obviously looked disappointed, but nodded before collecting her gear to begin heading back. Naruto breathed a little easier as she headed back, and frowned at his Senju lover when she snorted in amusement at his reaction. He sighed as he hefted his gym bag over his shoulder to head deeper into the forest while the rest headed to the village. Following along the path the three masked women had ran. He let his mind wander, and wasn't too surprised it focused on his current discomfort with Moegi's presence.

He was quite aware of her infatuation with him, but what he didn't understand exactly was why that made him so unsteady around her. He supposed a part of it could be his current moratorium on taking new lovers, but felt that didn't exactly explain it. Instead, he felt the reason laid in how he continuously pictured her younger or in more innocent scenarios. As such, he felt his mind was trying to shield her from his baser urges, particularly as she had turned seventeen only a few months before his nineteenth birthday. He had attended the party and rather like Seramu, she hadn't exactly been shy about her interest in him. It had been a little uncomfortable particularly since he had brought Ayame with, who not only teased him, but had urged him to give her what she really wanted for her birthday.

Although the idea had definitely been tempting, he found that as the night grew on he had become rather hesitant and nervous. Considering his vast sexual experience, he hadn't been sure what had prompted the response, but due to the time that they had begun dedicating to training for the Chunin Exams, he believed it was rooted in their minuet age difference. But, while that may have been the root of it, he believed it was primarily his knowing her during a more innocent time, for both of them.

He shook his head and could practically hear most of his lovers who were older then telling him that he was being a moron about the whole thing. Particularly Tsunade, since she had actually had similar reasons for denying her feelings for him. He felt like he could argue that she had never exactly seen him during a more innocent period in his life, since he felt that although perhaps more immature then now. He still liked to believe that he was similar to the man that he currently was. She had after all seen him go up against Kabuto, while wagered his life on her behalf, and then lived to tell about it. Not exactly something most children would have done in similar situations.

But, then again he had seen Moegi in similar situations as a kunoichi. Yet, still he had the same hang-ups when she hinted at her attraction to him. Not to mention, Seramu was younger than him as well, but he hadn't felt any hesitance with taking her as a lover. Ultimately though, he was rather glad for the current freeze on taking new lovers, since it would give him some time to think about the situation more, and perhaps come to fully understand why she created such anxiety in him.

He had considered talking with some of his lovers about it. But mainly had refrained in part to the fact that he believed approaching them with talk about claiming another kunoichi, while he was supposed to be not even considering it would likely be somewhat insulting to them. Not to mention, he felt it would smack of hubris on his part since at any moment his lovers might decide enough was enough, and that they should continue on without his taking new lovers. He doubted that they had reached such a point, particularly since he was sure Toka and Yakumo had shared Moegi's infatuation with him with the others. But, he imagined such a day might come so felt it best to always remember that it was his lovers that had the final say in the matter.

He also had refrained from sharing with Kiba in part due to his less than understanding response the last time. He guessed that he could understand where the Inuzuka was coming from, since although he also had a pair of lovers. He probably felt some of the issues that bothered him from time to time, were things most men would gladly experience in his place. But, Naruto liked to believe that was one of the things that separated him from most men, and was why he was so lucky with women. Which was that he didn't just leap into situations that most men would. After all, he could imagine quite a few would gladly accept Moegi's feelings just to say they had slept with a sweet young kunoichi. He even imagined that they would enjoy the fact that they had known her as a mere innocent girl, but would now be in essence debasing her for their pleasure.

He could easily picture such a scenario, and quickly shook his head to prevent it from lingering. He sighed in part since he figured he might be getting worked up over nothing, since the innocent picture that he had of her, might not be the actual case. For all he knew, and although he didn't truly believe it, she might be rather experienced and might just want to have a one-night stand with the Hero of the Leaf to say she had it and brag to her friends. The sweet, but flirty way she approached him could be nothing but her using an angle she thought might give her the best results. Strangely enough, Naruto was more comfortable with that being the case, and assumed it was because then in essence he wouldn't be the corruptor of the innocence he attributed to her.

He considered approaching Konohamaru to get some details about Moegi that he might not be privy to. But, he frowned since he had probably inadvertently closed off that avenue for information unintentionally. He had done this because ever since saving Naho, Konohamaru and her had become even closer. To the point that whenever the Fire Country Noble had needed shinobi assistance she would send a request asking for him in particular. Naruto doubted Konohamaru had ever been quite so eager to receive any D or C level mission as he was for the ones from her. Still, that didn't mean the two of them got to spend a great deal of alone time together. Yet, being young, foolish, and in to each other, it didn't surprise him the two risked getting caught by her guards or handmaidens to fool around. One such time, Konohamaru had apparently been permitted to touch her breasts as they made out.

Konohamaru had apparently been quite thrilled, and couldn't help bragging to his rival. Likely forgetting for the moment that Naruto was in a relationship with over sixty women willing to let him do the same. But, one reason he attributed to the women being willing to do so was the knowledge he wasn't exactly broadcasting it to make himself look like a big shot. Therefore, he had promptly shut Konohamaru down by stating, "I'm glad your relationship has reached such a point. But, I'm fairly confident the last thing she wants to know is you are going around bragging about it."

Konohamaru realized his error, and although the Sarutobi still sought him out for advice letting Naruto have a reasonable idea of where things stood between the two. It was much less detailed. Therefore, he doubted he could approach him to ask about his teammate's love life. Naruto chuckled as he pictured how awkward that conversation would be for him. Imagining himself walking up to the young Sarutobi stating, "Hey buddy, how's it going? By the way, I think your teammate really wants to sleep with me. But for some reason, I'm kind of hesitant and think it might actually be easier if she was really promiscuous instead of the sweet innocent girl that I used to play shinobi or hid and go seek with. So, do you have any dirty details that you might be willing to share?"

He highly doubted Konohamaru would appreciate the hypocrisy on his part. But, due in part to his being deep in thought, and before he could hit upon a solution he suddenly found a few strands of rope descending around him. Then a moment later they grew taunt, and pulled him back up against a nearby tree causing him to drop his bag. Before he could properly gauge his situation one of the masked kunoichi dropped down in front of him and placed a chakra suppression seal against his forehead.

The woman removed her mask to reveal Fubuki, who said amused, "Really, did you already forget that you trussed me up like a ham just a few moments ago."

Naruto smiled as the other two women came around after tying off the rope they had used to bind him to the tree without their masks on. His gaze drifted from Fubuki, to Koyuki and then Ayame before replying, "Is this your payback then?"

"Not exactly," Ayame responded with a twinkle in her eye, "We were actually hired to tie you here as punishment."

Although he suspected he already knew, he asked, "By who?"

"That would be me," Yakumo said coming around the tree as well. She smiled at him, and then kissed him passionately. Here hands moved up his chest, before going around his neck where she suddenly pulled the tape that she had used to adhere the wire used in her genjutsu breaking technique to his nape.

"Ow… ouch," Naruto cried out as Yakumo stepped away holding the sticker.

Sounding annoyed she asked, "What did I ask you not to do when you begged me to use one of my clan's prototype genjutsu breakers?"

"Not to Hirashin," Naruto answered like a child being reprimanded by a parent.

Much like a parent would, she asked the standard follow up question, "Yet what did you do?"

"Hiriashined," Naruto said lowering his head with shame. But, using the time honored tactic of trying to spread the blame he quickly said, "But Moegi had hers cut."

Yakumo made a disapproving clicking noise with her tongue before responding, "There is a world of difference between having it cut because Toka noticed the wire, and you breaking it because you got caught up in the battle." She pulled the end of the wire from the tape she had removed and added, "This wire is actually made from a special glass made from chakra infused sand. It allows for the transmission of chakra since we don't have any techniques nearly as advanced as the chakra threads Suna's puppeteers use. As such, this glass wire is easily breakable and delicate, and sudden surges of chakra will burn it out rendering the entire strand useless. Like when a person uses a particular teleportation jutsu. If you had just cut it that would be fine, but because you Hiriashined you burnt out the entire strand."

"Sorry," Naruto said sincerely, "I'll pay for a replacement."

Yakumo shook her head, before replying, "It would probably take several S-ranked missions to replace." She held back a giggle as Naruto's eyes grew wide in surprise, and she could imagine him picturing his frog wallet being deflated. She let a seductive tone enter her voice before adding "Luckily, I can think of a way for you to pay for a replacement that doesn't cost money."

The Kurama heir dropped to her knees and used both hands to rub his dick through his orange pants. Naruto groaned, and then asked, "Can you undo these ropes?"

"Nope," Yakumo said while feeling him grow hard. "This is also a punishment for you." Pulling down his zipper, she caught his dick as it fell out into her waiting hands and while stroking him added, "I'm not sure if I'll let you cum yet."

Fubuki took up a kneeling position to the side of her before saying, "Teasing him is one thing, but don't forget that you promised us that we'd get to drink his cum when you hired us."

"Betrayed for so small a price," Naruto said in mock anger, which turned into a groan when the pink haired Snow-nin began to suck on his scrotum.

Ayame knelt down on the opposite side of his dick from Fubuki stating, "Don't judge us too harshly. It is really delicious cum." She then planted her lips on his shaft towards the base. Yakumo stopped stroking him allowing Koyuki to kneel next to Fubuki to begin licking his shaft as well.

The Kurama heir shook her head before saying, "Well I guess I did promise." She then swallowed the tip of his dick which pulled another moan out of Naruto due to her circling her tongue around the head. Naruto was putty in their hands, or more accurately mouths since Yakumo focused on his cockhead, while Ayame and Koyuki bathed his shaft with their tongues leaving his balls to Fubuki.

Naruto was having a hard time picturing the excellent treatment he was receiving as a punishment. He feared it might turn into one though when Yakumo removed her mouth, and the other women followed suite. But, instead the Kurama heir pulled her shorts off, and turning away from him backed herself onto his dick. They both moaned as he slid deeper and deeper into his Kurama lover.

Yakumo then began moving back and forth as she fucked herself on his dick. Her moans grew louder as Koyuki took the opportunity to kneel in front of her and began sucking on her clit. Ayame, meanwhile stood to kiss Naruto while Fubuki stood to kiss the happily moaning Kurama Clan Head and fondle her breasts through her shirt.

Naruto tried to pump himself into his lover, but the ropes holding him prevented much waist action on his part. He resigned himself to being more passive then he preferred since he loved to give and receive.

Yakumo tensed as she tried to resist cumming by pulling her lips away from Fubuki to bite her lip, but Koyuki's skilled cunnilingus made that an impossibility. The Spring Country Daimyo sensed the woman's approach into orgasmic bliss, so began to focus her efforts on pushing the woman over the edge. Koyuki's sucking on her clit coupled with Fubuki teasing her nipples caused Yakumo to cry out, although they were silenced when the pink haired kunoichi resealed her lips to the younger woman's.

Yakumo shivered while she climaxed, and her cunt coiled around the dick she had fully impaled herself on. She let out a small sigh as the pleasure dwindled down, and was a little disappointed she hadn't been filled with his cum. Her strength began to leave her causing her to sink to her knees as she was supported by Koyuki. The Daimyo quickly kissed her allowing her to taste herself. Behind her, she knew both Fubuki and Ayame were enjoying her essence as well, since both women had quickly begun noisily sucking Naruto's dick.

Naruto watched the two women take turns swallowing his manhood. Their eyes burned with lust while they stared up at him with sunken cheeks while they worked their mouths over his length. Ayame let him go after several moments, but Fubuki stood asking, "Do you mind if I fuck him next?"

Ayame shook her head so made room while Fubuki stood in front of him. The former Snow-nin then placed one foot on the trunk of the tree where she applied chakra to hold her in place. She then raised the other so that she could straddle the blond shinobi. Ayame stood behind her to help hold her up as Fubuki began to lower herself onto his dick. She sighed contently as she was stretched out more and more. She leaned forward to use her hands as chakra anchors and to kiss her lover while she basked in the feeling of being stuffed with him. Naruto eagerly kissed her back while she began to slowly raise and lower her pussy over his shaft.

The Ramen waitress watched the pink-haired woman, a little nervously since although she had mastered climbing trees using chakra to a degree. She didn't know if she would be able to maintain the concentration needed to do so while being pleasured. After all, it became hard to keep focused on the two since Koyuki began to tug the black pants that she wore down. Ayame looked down to see the Daimyo had removed all her clothes. While as equally nude Yakumo joined the effort to strip her as she stood before Ayame to pull her shirt over her head. Ayame stepped free of her pants and moaned since Koyuki quickly planted her face into the waitress's behind in order to munch on her dripping pussy. Once Ayame was free of the black shirt, Yakumo lowered her mouth to one of her breasts where her tongue toyed with the woman's hardened nipple before she sucked on it. She threw her head back to moan, which grew deeper when Yakumo's fingers joined the Spring Daimyo's tongue in pleasuring her snatch.

Fubuki moaned contently as her hips began raising and lowering over Naruto's cock vigorously. She was forced to drop a foot down to the ground since the pleasure she felt began to make maintaining the concentration needed to remain affixed to the tree difficult. Wrapping her arms around his neck, and with her left knee still held in place against the tree with chakra, she began to bounce wildly on his cock while her right foot maintained contact with the ground. She moaned loudly from her repeatedly using his dick to stab her womb.

Fubuki felt his dick grow even bigger signaling that Naruto was nearing his end, so she began moving frantically in order to get him to release his seed. She could tell he was attempting to hold back so kissed him deeply, before then sucking on his lower lip while she pulled away. Looking into his eyes she said needily, "Don't… don't hold back, let me feel you exploding inside me. Mmmm, I'm so close."

She slammed down onto his dick and her climax hit her like an exploding tag going off in a firework's factory. She then felt his release begin to flood her womb as he groaned in satisfaction. Like gasoline being poured on a fire she cried out as a second orgasm caused her to lose herself in bliss. Fubuki fell back stumbling slightly as his dick slipped from within her. She was caught by Koyuki, but she was then quickly lowered to the ground where Koyuki quickly dove between her thighs to drink the seed from her still overly sensitive snatch. Fubuki arched her back while the Daimyo that she guarded sucked the cum from her.

Ayame and Yakumo knelt before him and took turns sucking his cock to clean it as well as to keep him hard. When their task was completed, Yakumo turned and buried her face in Koyuki's snatch causing the woman to pull her tongue out of her bodyguard to cry out in pleasure. Ayame though stood, and then walked around the tree where she undid the knot tying her lover to it.

Coming back around she said, "I want your hands to be free while you fuck me." She began to sit down on the forest floor, and spread her legs showing off her drenched pussy. Naruto smiled at her when she began waving him forward with her finger. He followed the silent direction, and knelt between her legs. He then lifted her up into his lap, where after sliding onto his cock, she used her legs to aid him in bouncing her on it.

She arched her back and cried out in contentment which grew louder when he alternated between licking and sucking her nipples. She buried her hands in his hair while using her inner muscles to squeeze the dick sliding within her. Naruto groaned from the vise like squeeze on his manhood and felt the urge to plant his seed inside Ayame grow harder to resist.

Trying to buy a little relief, he urged her off his dick and then spun her so that she was on all fours. He then raised up and buried his dick back inside the hot wetness of his brown-haired lover. He began jamming his dick into her furiously which caused her to cry out every time it slammed into the entrance of her womb.

His vision of the moaning waitress was obscured by the sight of a Koyuki's pussy as she straddled Ayame's back. The actress was facing him and with her hands buried in his hair urged him forward to eat her twat. Not that he fought that urge as he eagerly covered her cunt with his mouth and began drinking in her juices. Naruto moaned from her taste as well as Ayame's cunt alternating the resistance he felt as she would squeeze and release his probing dick.

Everyone stiffened though as Moegi's voice called, "Boss, are you back here?"

Naruto turned from Koyuki's snatch in time to see Moegi entering the forest where the orgy was taking place while she was following the path he had taken. Yet, despite her gaze passing over him and the others she called out again, "Hello… anyone here?"

His gaze moved to Yakumo, who had been in the midst of munching on Fubuki's cunt while the pink-haired woman returned the favor. He had suspected her of casting some sort of genjutsu that obscured them. But, from her shocked countenance, and the fact her hands were still firmly gripping Fubuki's thighs he guessed that wasn't the case. His gaze caught movement in some trees, and he looked up to see Toka perched in some branches. She blew him a kiss and then proceeded to bury her hand back into her pants making it clear she had been watching the show.

Naruto groaned due to Ayame beginning to move to compensate for his lack of movement and he sent a panicked look back towards Moegi. But, the orange haired kunoichi remained unaware of the scene she had stumbled onto. His face was turned so that he looked up at Koyuki, who said, "Let's hurry up and finish. Her presence is making me so hot."

Naruto resisted only a little as Ayame slamming into him, and the moans of Yakumo and Fubuki returning served to demonstrate the genjutsu Moegi was under covered sound as well. Plus, Koyuki's sweet aroma called to him, and when he resumed his meal found that much as she stated that she was even hotter and juicer than before. Naruto moaned into her cunt, and began meeting Ayame's backwards thrusts with powerful strokes of his own. The waitress cried out loudly as if testing the genjutsu sound dampening abilities when Naruto reached around to begin fondling her breasts.

It wasn't long before she climaxed, especially as Naruto soon began to tweak and tug her nipples. He resisted the urge to cum, although he continued to slam into her in order to prolong her pleasure. She slipped free of his cock as it became too much and she collapsed forward.

Koyuki quickly seized the opportunity to push him back, and then facing away impaled herself on his dick. Naruto groaned and reached around to begin fondling her breasts. He froze again though as Moegi suddenly tripped and called out, "What the heck?"

She looked back to see her feet entangled in the strap of Naruto's gym bag, which had been rendered invisible by Toka's illusion. However, unaware that it had reappeared upon her making contact with it, she began to wonder how she had missed it. Moegi stood, unaware that a few feet away Koyuki was bouncing wildly on the dick that she dreamed about being the one that would claim her virginity. Still seeing his bag, but no Naruto, she asked aloud to herself, "Where can he be? I was sure that he hadn't left the training area yet."

She frowned though when she saw the trail that she had been following had come to an end. Not sure what was going on, she picked the bag up figuring that Naruto had perhaps forgotten it somehow, or had Hiraishined away without it. She smiled though since it would give her an opportunity to perhaps spend more time with him. She showed thought that at least one of her senses wasn't being blocked when she asked, "What's that smell?" She wasn't sure exactly what it was, but found the more she breathed it in the hornier she got. She considered staying to pleasure herself, but since she figured Naruto might have a means to teleport to his bag figured she would die of embarrassment if he found her in such a state. She nearly decided to do it regardless, particularly since she had recently run into her old teacher in the practices of Flower Arranging and other arts that might help a kunoichi assume various roles needed to complete a mission. She had found it strange that Suzume had suddenly appeared in her life again, and had seemed more interested in her training with Naruto then if she was using the lessons that she had taught her. Still, once the conversation had turned to if there were any boys that she was interested in, and had learned of her infatuation with Naruto. Moegi had learned the teacher was all too ready to help by giving her advice. One such tip that the instructor had given was that she should appear vulnerable around him, and the genin could think of few ways to be more vulnerable than for him to appear while her panties were around her ankles and her fingers teasing her pussy. With the vision her mind was providing her and the scent filling her nostrils driving her wild, it caused her hand to begin inching towards the front of her skirt, but she resisted at the last moment not being brave or desperate enough just yet to resort to such methods. Plus, she knew Naruto was still seeing Ayame so figured all she would end up being is embarrassed in such a situation, rather then it turning into the beginning of the porn movie that her imagination wanted her to believe would happen. Therefore, she began heading back following the trail that she had used to get there while taking his bag with her.

Naruto breathed a sigh of relief at the kunoichi's leaving, that then became a moan of pleasure from Koyuki grinding her hips into him. He caused her to stiffen and moan in turn when he brought one of his hands between her legs to begin rubbing her clit, while the other continued to fondle her tit. She began to raise and lower herself on his pole again so he began to raise his hips to meet her as she descended.

A little on edge at their near discovery, and having denied himself an orgasm previously with Ayame. He decided to take matters into his own hands, so gripping her thighs he stood in order to rapidly pounding her as she faced his other lovers who were now in a circle licking each other's cunts. Koyuki could sense Naruto's eagerness to cum, especially as he had grown even larger inside her. Therefore, she took over the job of rubbing her clit in time with his thrusts. As such, it wasn't long until she threw her head back and cried out in pleasure, which along with her milking pussy informed Naruto that he could let loose as well. With a final powerful stab, he pushed himself into her until the tip of his cock was nestled against her womb, and then proceeded to fill it to the brim.

Koyuki went limp in his arms, and as he pulled his dick free of her, he shivered due to a sudden breeze. That breeze turned out to be Toka, who had shunshined before him, to catch the seed that began dripping from the Daimyo's snatch. Once she was confident that she had drank what was immediately in danger of hitting the floor and going to waste, she smiled up at him to state, "It's a good thing someone kept tabs on your little fan as otherwise you'd have quite the conundrum on your hands."

Naruto nodded in agreement, but didn't respond as the Senju gave the sensitive head of his dick a kiss, before licking it to clean it of any cum. She pulled back to stand and took in the sight of the other women. She then clapped her hands to get their attention and said sternly, "I'm ashamed in all of you. The first rule of the shinobi is to always be aware of your surroundings, and if Moegi had noticed you all then it would have potentially forced us into a bad situation. Especially as we all agreed that for the time being there would be no new additions. Several of you didn't even stop!"

Fubuki frowned before replying, "Well when she didn't start screaming it was…"

But, Toka wasn't in the mood for excuses as she countered, "Be that as it may. We shouldn't take such risks if we can avoid it. Particularly with the best method for dealing with it being shelved for the moment. Also, what if it had been the two that I am partnered with? The bag that Moegi tripped on could have just as easily been one of you." Toka focused on Yakumo before adding, "I understand that you set this up as a little fun to be had and to vent about your ruined chakra wire. But, please do not think to repeat it during the actual exams."

"I wasn't," Yakumo answered quickly, "I guess I just didn't see the harm as we have used these training grounds in the past."

"Perhaps," Toka replied, "But, in the past we have used privacy barriers where only those of the Family had the access signs. Even if you had changed them, it might have alerted Moegi that something strange was going on. A curiosity that might lead her to the truth. One should never underestimate how a small seemingly insignificant perceived irregularity or slipup might come back on us." Confident her words were taken to heart, she said, "Now with that out of the way, let us adjourn to a more secure location as watching you all has made me extremely horny." Stepping up to the still mostly dressed Naruto she asked, "So then how about you take me to the Den where I can get a little alone time before they can catch up?" Naruto nodded and smiled before pulling her into a kiss as they disappeared in a red flash leaving the other women to scramble for their clothes and gear so they could have another go with him.

*****************************

Kurenai smiled as she tilted her glass to her date and he filled it with a red wine that she enjoyed. Despite how perfect the date had been; she would admit that she felt a little weird being herself while henged as a Snow-nin that was supposed to be suffering from multiple personalities. As part of the "Kurenai" persona the Snow-nin had opted to have red eyes and black hair. Still despite Naruto also being henged as the woman's lover, she had little difficulty in seeing him in the disguise due to his clear blue eyes.

She had been a little surprised that Naruto had even remembered, considering the workout he had been through earlier that day both during the training and the probably far more physically taxing relaxation that came afterwards. Still, despite catching sight of him dragging himself out of the Den a few hours before their date looking drained. He had appeared at her apartment door promptly on time looking reinvigorated. Leaving together, they had found a quiet place to apply their disguises and he had then taken her to an upscale restaurant with a view of the river that ran through Konoha.

She giggled slightly about how strange her life now was causing Naruto to ask, "What is so amusing?"

"I'm just blown away at the bizarre turn my life has taken," she answered smiling softly to assure him that although she found it strange, she didn't mean so in a bad way. Explaining further she stated, "Here we are enjoying a lovely meal together, when just a few hours ago you were entertaining several other women. That you are doing so with my full knowledge and blessing is not exactly something I can ever say that I would have foreseen for any relationship I might be a part of."

Naruto smiled at her before replying, "I can understand why that would take a little getting used to."

"It really didn't though," the red eyed jounin replied quickly, "At least not for me. But then again, I suppose it was the rather unique way I was introduced to it."

Naruto felt a stirring in his loins remembering Kurenai's initiation into the ranks of his Family. He chuckled as he said, "I think we both learned a great deal about each other."

Her cheeks colored in response, but changing the subject replied, "But still, considering how vigorously you 'trained today.' I am rather surprised you were up for tonight."

He smiled softly from her delicate phrasing of how he had spent the time with Toka and the others. He reached for her hand before replying, "A man unwilling to honor all of his commitments isn't worthy of having them in the first place."

Kurenai felt a measure satisfaction from his words, and it confirmed for her that he viewed her as being important to him. She still didn't know if she loved him yet, but definitely could feel her feelings slide closure to it being the case. She gave his hand a soft squeeze which he returned. She felt a curiosity take hold as she asked, "Is that perhaps why you were so nervous when Moegi appeared at the Inn looking return that bag? It is obvious that she is rather infatuated with you. Is your hesitance perhaps due to you feeling that you are nearing a point where you have overcommitted yourself?"

Naruto felt a little nervousness take hold particularly considering his earlier thoughts on the matter. But rather than deflecting her question admitted, "It isn't that. Her feelings are pretty apparent to me, but… I'm not sure I can honestly respond to them."

Kurenai would admit she found his answer rather strange since she had figured it was related more to his being told not to take any new lovers for the time being. "I'm not sure that I understand to be honest. Considering my own "initiation." I'm not sure why you would find accepting hers so difficult."

"Because I'm not really sure that I would be," Naruto said unsure how best to phrase his reply. Seeing he wasn't quiet getting through he explained, "Whenever I think of Moegi. I see this cute little girl that I knew. I know it is silly, and perhaps even stupid considering she isn't that much younger than me, but I kind of have this feeling that I would be some kind of cradle robber."

Kurenai didn't mean to laugh, but couldn't help letting out a loud and sustained one causing several people to look in their direction. Naruto didn't really react letting her get it out of her system. Eventually, she got ahold of herself and due to his lack of reaction knew he was being serious so felt rather bad at her reaction. But, he let her know he wasn't offended as he smiled before stating, "I know on the surface it is ridiculous considering… well everything."

Kurenai nodded, but replied, "Feelings sadly do not always need to make sense to have a hold on us. Still, she has grown into a beautiful woman so I'm not sure I truly understand. She has been a genin for almost as long as you if we remove the time you were traveling with Jiraiya. This innocence you seem to have a problem with might be long gone."

Naruto sighed before admitting, "Truthfully that would make it somewhat easier for me. I mean if she was experienced then it would be just my imagination at play. But, if not… I don't know… at part of me worries it would just be me taking her because I can."

"Because she doesn't really add anything to your ambition?" Kurenai supplied trying to help him arrange his thoughts. She doubted that was the case since she suspected he would have shown more hesitance with adding her and a few others as she didn't contribute to the degree a Tsunade or Koharu did. Thinking along those lines and adding what he had already admitted it dawned on her though that, "You're afraid that your ego would be driving you to do so." She could see the statement resonated with him so added, "I suppose that I can understand that. You did know here when she was at a more innocent age, and you although still hadn't matured into the fine physical specimen you are now. Nonetheless, didn't exactly share that same innocence. We do tend to forget that we train genin to kill and some see such combat actions even before taking their first Chunin exams. Truthfully, you probably are not all that far removed from the state of mind you had back then."

Naruto smiled as he added, "I like to believe there have been some improvements in that regard."

Kurenai laughed softly before replying, "I mean in the sense of looking at the world with the same level of innocence as opposed to her. For example, while you might have played innocently with Konohamaru and the others as they were just entering the final portion of the academy after you graduated. You probably had seen things that made indulging in the same level of lightheartedness rather difficult. You probably just don't want to be the thing that strips it from Moegi, and feel doing so would be just to stroke your ego. Not honestly answering her feelings with your own."

Naruto nodded before turning to look out on the river. After a moment he said, "I guess that is true. I doubt I would have this issue if I hadn't spent time getting to know her before her interest in me took a more adult turn. Still, I can't exactly say I know how I'll behave should she become more persistent."

Kurenai felt her respect for Naruto increase since she was sure most men in his situation would gladly jump at the chance. After all, it was the stuff that girl next door or teacher/student fantasies were made of. That Naruto was hesitant to just accept her infatuation just because he could and even felt doing so might cause him to give into a dark part of himself was somewhat eye opening. She also believed it was a core reason for his success with women as it made her desire him even more. She smiled since she doubted that he even realized how even his insecurities tended to make him such a worthy person for all the affection he received. After all, it was easy to imagine how even a normal kind and caring person could be corrupted by the power the Binding gave over a woman influenced by it. She imagined that it wouldn't before most people would ask themselves the simple question of, "Should I?" A relatively simple question, but one that had prevented many a person from taking a wrong turn into darkness. Granted it was a question that others in his circle had asked themselves, as she thought of Kushina in particular since she could imagine the woman had struggled with her desires for her son. But, even should a person eventually go through with the action that prompted the concern, at least pausing to ask meant they were more aware of the potential consequences.

Content with her own decision to take the blond as a lover she said, "Whatever you decide I'm confident will be the best for both of you. Yet as fun as it is to talk about another woman you may or may not someday bed…"

"You're right," Naruto said aware she was only partially teasing, "I should definitely be focusing on the here and now."

Kurenai took a sip of her wine before stating, "Well, to be fair I was the one that brought it up."

"Regardless," Naruto said waving for the waiter to bring the check, "What's say we get going so I can lavish all my attention on you?"

Kurenai liked the sound of that, but teasingly said, "I don't know. Something tells me that there will be a lot of competition for that attention as soon as we get home."

Naruto smiled at her while he looked the bill over. He then stuffed the payment as well as a generous tip in the small folder he had been handed before standing to walk towards her. Holding his arm out he said, "Well then let's head someplace where I can promise to give you my undivided attention."

Intrigued, Kurenai took the offered arm and after leaving the restaurant had to admit she was exceptionally glad she had been given a second chance to fall in love again.

****************************