HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
Naruto: Whirlpool
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Fandom Whirlpool [HufflepuffOwl & redletalis]
- Thread starter HufflepuffOwl
- Start date
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
{ Konohagakure }
"So, this is Tou-san's village," drawled Naruto.
The redhead was currently perched on the wall adjacent to the main gate. His legs dangled over the edge. He wore a long-sleeved black shirt with single dark maroon stripes on the sleeves and dark maroon cargo pants tucked into half-calf black shinobi sandals. Black half-forearm fingerless gloves adorned his hands, including dark maroon shinobi-standard arm guards. A black kunai pouch and white shuriken pouch were strapped on his right thigh and belt. Two orange suspender-like straps fastened on his belt, hanging loosely against his hips. A white sleeveless, cropped, high-collared vest covered his shirt; the front unzipped. The collar, shoulder ridge, and shoulder blades were dyed a brilliant orange; the color identical to his straps. His clan symbol was emblazoned on the back; the crimson and black swirl outlined with dark maroon.
After the Chūnins below granted him admittance, Naruto scaled the wall, taking a moment to observe the gargantuan village. "Certainly colorful," he mumbled, eyeing the various buildings scattered across the districts. In the distance, he spotted a large rock formation depicting four carved faces; Hokage Monument. His eyes lingered on the fourth face, noting the similar gravity-defying hair, strong jawline, straight nose, and expressive eyes.
Namikaze Minato, his father.
"Kaa-san's right. It's huge," Naruto muttered. Adjusting the black-clothed hitai-ate secured on his forehead, the redhead rose into a standing position. Sunlight beamed on the iron plate, enhancing the circled whirlpool engraving. A gentle breeze sliced through him, ruffling his unruly crimson locks. The dark color, combined with his sun-kissed skin, accented his cerulean blue eyes. His bangs brushed against the three whisker-like birthmarks marring his cheekbones. Despite resembling his father, especially his spiky locks, Naruto inherited his mother's ruby tresses, softer jawline, and rounder eyes.
While he was born in Konohagakure, Naruto was raised in Uzushiogakure, his mother's home village. Since infancy, he lived in the Land of Whirlpools; an island located off the coast of Land of Fire. Uzushio was small, but strong. After the union of Senju Hashirama and Uzumaki Mito, Konohagakure and Uzushiogakure became close allies. During the Third Shinobi World War, Uzushio stood by Konoha, exemplifying their strength in small numbers. Due to their fearsome knowledge in fūinjutsu, Kumo, Iwa, and Kiri banded together, determined to obliterate Uzushio. However, Konoha intervened, saving them from complete annihilation.
For protection, his mother, Uzumaki Kushina, the jinchūriki of Kyūbi no Kitsune, moved to Konoha during her childhood. There, she met his father, a rising prodigy, including the only boy in her class who complimented her flaming locks. After his father saved her from being kidnapped by Kumo shinobi, they grew close. Eventually, they married and conceived him. Due to her jinchūriki status, his mother's pregnancy was hidden from the village. The seal binding the Nine-Tailed Fox was formidable, but childbirth severely weakened it. To ensure it wasn't broken, special arrangements were made. According to his father, complications arose, forcing his mother to give birth prematurely. While Naruto was born earlier than anticipated, the seal didn't break. However, due to the nature of the complications, he, along with his mother, moved to Uzushio.
Despite living in Konoha, the Yondaime actively visited his family in Uzushio. Underneath his Kage visage, his father was exceptionally doting. For the first time since his birth, Naruto ventured to Konohagakure. He desired learning about the village his old man protected. While his mother painted beautiful pictures with her stories, Naruto yearned exploring it with his own eyes. "I wonder if Tou-san sensed me yet," the redhead mumbled, glancing at the direction of the tall building near the Hokage Monument. Based from his mother's description, it was Hokage Tower. A mischievous grin plastered on his face, shattering his neutral expression. "One way to find out." Without another word, Naruto shunshin'd, vanishing in a swirl of smoke. Technically, he was scheduled to arrive a week later. However, the seventeen year old Uzushio Jōnin left early, determined to surprise his father.
Instead of venturing through the streets, the redhead traveled by rooftop. Sitting on top the wall, combined with his mother's descriptions, enabled him to locate his destination. However, if he stepped one foot on the ground, Naruto would lose his sense of direction. Compared to Uzushio, Konoha was massive.
"So, this is Tou-san's village," drawled Naruto.
The redhead was currently perched on the wall adjacent to the main gate. His legs dangled over the edge. He wore a long-sleeved black shirt with single dark maroon stripes on the sleeves and dark maroon cargo pants tucked into half-calf black shinobi sandals. Black half-forearm fingerless gloves adorned his hands, including dark maroon shinobi-standard arm guards. A black kunai pouch and white shuriken pouch were strapped on his right thigh and belt. Two orange suspender-like straps fastened on his belt, hanging loosely against his hips. A white sleeveless, cropped, high-collared vest covered his shirt; the front unzipped. The collar, shoulder ridge, and shoulder blades were dyed a brilliant orange; the color identical to his straps. His clan symbol was emblazoned on the back; the crimson and black swirl outlined with dark maroon.
After the Chūnins below granted him admittance, Naruto scaled the wall, taking a moment to observe the gargantuan village. "Certainly colorful," he mumbled, eyeing the various buildings scattered across the districts. In the distance, he spotted a large rock formation depicting four carved faces; Hokage Monument. His eyes lingered on the fourth face, noting the similar gravity-defying hair, strong jawline, straight nose, and expressive eyes.
Namikaze Minato, his father.
"Kaa-san's right. It's huge," Naruto muttered. Adjusting the black-clothed hitai-ate secured on his forehead, the redhead rose into a standing position. Sunlight beamed on the iron plate, enhancing the circled whirlpool engraving. A gentle breeze sliced through him, ruffling his unruly crimson locks. The dark color, combined with his sun-kissed skin, accented his cerulean blue eyes. His bangs brushed against the three whisker-like birthmarks marring his cheekbones. Despite resembling his father, especially his spiky locks, Naruto inherited his mother's ruby tresses, softer jawline, and rounder eyes.
While he was born in Konohagakure, Naruto was raised in Uzushiogakure, his mother's home village. Since infancy, he lived in the Land of Whirlpools; an island located off the coast of Land of Fire. Uzushio was small, but strong. After the union of Senju Hashirama and Uzumaki Mito, Konohagakure and Uzushiogakure became close allies. During the Third Shinobi World War, Uzushio stood by Konoha, exemplifying their strength in small numbers. Due to their fearsome knowledge in fūinjutsu, Kumo, Iwa, and Kiri banded together, determined to obliterate Uzushio. However, Konoha intervened, saving them from complete annihilation.
For protection, his mother, Uzumaki Kushina, the jinchūriki of Kyūbi no Kitsune, moved to Konoha during her childhood. There, she met his father, a rising prodigy, including the only boy in her class who complimented her flaming locks. After his father saved her from being kidnapped by Kumo shinobi, they grew close. Eventually, they married and conceived him. Due to her jinchūriki status, his mother's pregnancy was hidden from the village. The seal binding the Nine-Tailed Fox was formidable, but childbirth severely weakened it. To ensure it wasn't broken, special arrangements were made. According to his father, complications arose, forcing his mother to give birth prematurely. While Naruto was born earlier than anticipated, the seal didn't break. However, due to the nature of the complications, he, along with his mother, moved to Uzushio.
Despite living in Konoha, the Yondaime actively visited his family in Uzushio. Underneath his Kage visage, his father was exceptionally doting. For the first time since his birth, Naruto ventured to Konohagakure. He desired learning about the village his old man protected. While his mother painted beautiful pictures with her stories, Naruto yearned exploring it with his own eyes. "I wonder if Tou-san sensed me yet," the redhead mumbled, glancing at the direction of the tall building near the Hokage Monument. Based from his mother's description, it was Hokage Tower. A mischievous grin plastered on his face, shattering his neutral expression. "One way to find out." Without another word, Naruto shunshin'd, vanishing in a swirl of smoke. Technically, he was scheduled to arrive a week later. However, the seventeen year old Uzushio Jōnin left early, determined to surprise his father.
Instead of venturing through the streets, the redhead traveled by rooftop. Sitting on top the wall, combined with his mother's descriptions, enabled him to locate his destination. However, if he stepped one foot on the ground, Naruto would lose his sense of direction. Compared to Uzushio, Konoha was massive.
Last edited:
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
It was a rare day when he had a day off from both ninja matters and clan matters, and Itachi intended to use it to its fullest. The sun was shining as normal, but the weather was surprisingly mild despite the Konoha summer. He had dropped by the bookshop and had picked up a book that he had been meaning to read for ages now. After that followed a stop by a stall to get his hands on some nice dango. Then he had to stop at another stall because he ate the dango a bit too quickly and he still wanted more. Sternly instructing himself to not eat the dango yet no matter how tempting it was, Itachi headed towards the park.
Except getting there at ground-level presented to major problems: A) it went far too slow for his opinion, and B) there were too many people who wanted to chat. It seemed like all of Konoha and their relatives from the rest of Fire Country wanted to talk to Uchiha Itachi today, and he was quickly losing his patience with the situation – not that most people could tell.
As soon as the old lady who had hooked her vicious metaphorical claws into him turned away, Itachi jumped high and got onto the rooftops. Holding his two bags in his hand he jumped several rooftops away before he stopped. Sending a disgruntled look behind himself, silently complaining about Uchiha Mikoto’s annoying ability to become friendly with literally everyone – seriously, even the Hyuuga Clan were unable to resist her! – Itachi sighed lightly. Well, his plans of being lazy on his day off weren’t off to a great start, but hopefully that wouldn’t last. Seriously, what else could the world throw at him?
A minute later he was silently cursing both himself and Murphy’s Law.
For a moment he hesitated behind a chimney stack, wondering if he could pretend not to have seen the very eye-catching young man, but then gave in. The Yondaime would know right away, Kakashi would laugh at him and, worst of all, Uchiha Mikoto’s wrath would befall him. And if there was one thing worse than a pissed off overprotective Hokage or a rampaging Tailed Demon? It was a furious Uchiha Mikoto.
Jumping over the rooftops to the redheads, Itachi made sure that his approach was obvious and that there was nothing about it that could register as threatening to a paranoid ninja. He stopped on the closest rooftop and looked the other up and down quickly. There was a small chance of this young man being an implant or under disguise, but then the gates would never have let him enter. Besides, the Yondaime waxed poetic about everything about his son every chance he got. The ninjas of Konoha probably knew Naruto better than even Naruto knew himself thanks to the proud papa.
“Uzumaki Naruto-san, I presume?” he said, speaking only loud enough to be heard by the redhead. “You weren’t expected until next week, Uzumaki-san. Yondaime-sama is going to be quite… surprised.”
That was an understatement if there ever was one.
“May I escort you to the Hokage?” Itachi gestured lightly, slowly with his free hand.
Except getting there at ground-level presented to major problems: A) it went far too slow for his opinion, and B) there were too many people who wanted to chat. It seemed like all of Konoha and their relatives from the rest of Fire Country wanted to talk to Uchiha Itachi today, and he was quickly losing his patience with the situation – not that most people could tell.
As soon as the old lady who had hooked her vicious metaphorical claws into him turned away, Itachi jumped high and got onto the rooftops. Holding his two bags in his hand he jumped several rooftops away before he stopped. Sending a disgruntled look behind himself, silently complaining about Uchiha Mikoto’s annoying ability to become friendly with literally everyone – seriously, even the Hyuuga Clan were unable to resist her! – Itachi sighed lightly. Well, his plans of being lazy on his day off weren’t off to a great start, but hopefully that wouldn’t last. Seriously, what else could the world throw at him?
A minute later he was silently cursing both himself and Murphy’s Law.
For a moment he hesitated behind a chimney stack, wondering if he could pretend not to have seen the very eye-catching young man, but then gave in. The Yondaime would know right away, Kakashi would laugh at him and, worst of all, Uchiha Mikoto’s wrath would befall him. And if there was one thing worse than a pissed off overprotective Hokage or a rampaging Tailed Demon? It was a furious Uchiha Mikoto.
Jumping over the rooftops to the redheads, Itachi made sure that his approach was obvious and that there was nothing about it that could register as threatening to a paranoid ninja. He stopped on the closest rooftop and looked the other up and down quickly. There was a small chance of this young man being an implant or under disguise, but then the gates would never have let him enter. Besides, the Yondaime waxed poetic about everything about his son every chance he got. The ninjas of Konoha probably knew Naruto better than even Naruto knew himself thanks to the proud papa.
“Uzumaki Naruto-san, I presume?” he said, speaking only loud enough to be heard by the redhead. “You weren’t expected until next week, Uzumaki-san. Yondaime-sama is going to be quite… surprised.”
That was an understatement if there ever was one.
“May I escort you to the Hokage?” Itachi gestured lightly, slowly with his free hand.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
Whoosh.
”Uzumaki Naruto-san, I presume?”
Said redhead halted, landing on top a flat-surfaced roof. Naruto pivoted, facing the source of the smooth, baritone voice. He tilted his head, studying the older man. The way he carried himself, including his silent entrance, demonstrated his shinobi background. Absentmindedly, Naruto recalled his female cousin, Karin. According to his mother, his cousin possessed a unique sensory technique capable detecting chakra with excruciating detail. While Naruto wasn’t a sensor, his Uzumaki bloodline made him, albeit somewhat, chakra sensitive. A faint trace of chakra, combined with the shifting winds, was the only indicator of the man’s arrival. Based from his first impression, the ravenette was high-leveled, dangerous, and formidable.
“I am,” confirmed Naruto. The redhead eyed the undeniably attractive man’s raven locks, pale complexion, and obsidian eyes. All of the sudden, recognition dawned on his expression, remembering his mother’s tales involving her best female friend; Uchiha. He flashed the older man a polite smile. “I wanted to surprise him,” he admitted. If an Uchiha spotted him, Naruto doubted he retained the element of surprise. Catching his old man off guard was, frustratingly, difficult. On the other hand, if Kami-sama smiled on him, the redhead may accomplish his goal. Regardless, Naruto was looking forward reuniting with his father. They haven’t seen each other for half a year. While the Yondaime actively visited his family, he had a village to run.
”May I escort you to the Hokage?”
He glanced at the bags clutched in the ravenette’s hand. Naruto shook his head, bowing respectively. “Thank you, but I don’t want to intrude,” he announced. Based from the man’s casual clothing, combined with the bags containing a book and sugary sweets, the Uchiha was off-duty. Naruto, more than anyone, knew the rarity of days-off. He savored them to the fullest. “Enjoy your day off, Uchiha-san,” he added. With a casual wave, the redhead hopped off the roof, vanishing in a swirl of smoke.
For a moment, Naruto recalled his mother’s description regarding the Uchiha clan. “Certainly polite for an Uchiha,” he thought, remembering his mother’s ranting. Uzumaki Kushina met her fair share of stick-in-the-muds. However, her best friend, a female Uchiha, was a breath of fresh air. Unlike her egotistical relatives, she was polite, kindhearted, and gentle. Naruto faintly remembered the woman’s face from a photograph, but he couldn’t recall her name.
A few minutes later, the redhead stopped in front of his destination; Hokage Tower. While he was tempted hopping through the window, thus surprising his father, Naruto suppressed the impulse. One, his father was the Yondaime. Two, the Yondaime had a personal team of ANBU guards. The last thing he needed was being attacked by ANBU. Naruto had confidence in his abilities, but the ANBU were the elite. The best of the best. Additionally, his mother would have his head for his improper behavior. If one thing frightened him the most, it was Uzumaki Kushina’s ire.
Without a word, Naruto entered the tower. After conversing with the front desk receptionist, including a flash of his traveling documents, the redhead navigated through the tower, stopping in front of the door leading to the Yondaime’s office. Before entering the tower, Naruto suppressed his chakra. While he desired maintaining the element of surprise, the redhead savored the last moments of peace. He loved his father, he really did, but once it concerned his family, Namikaze Minato was irrefutably exuberant. At times, borderline suffocating and overprotective. Being the son of the Yondaime Hokage and Uzushio Village Head, including heir of the Uzumaki clan, wasn’t easy. It came with expectations, regulations, and pressure. Kami-sama, the pressure. Since childhood, Naruto lived with it. As a prodigy, many people, clansmen or shinobi, expected great things from him. Thankfully, the redhead was blessed with loving, albeit protective, parents. However, Naruto was determined to make a name for himself. He wanted to prove he was more than the son of the Yellow Flash and Red Hot-Blooded Habanero.
After knocking on the door, Naruto opened it, poking his head inside. “Missed me, eh Tou-san?” he announced, flashing his father his signature grin. Since he didn’t detect additional chakra signatures inside the room, Naruto refrained exemplifying a polite, more respectful approach. Despite being his son, his father is the Yondaime.
”Uzumaki Naruto-san, I presume?”
Said redhead halted, landing on top a flat-surfaced roof. Naruto pivoted, facing the source of the smooth, baritone voice. He tilted his head, studying the older man. The way he carried himself, including his silent entrance, demonstrated his shinobi background. Absentmindedly, Naruto recalled his female cousin, Karin. According to his mother, his cousin possessed a unique sensory technique capable detecting chakra with excruciating detail. While Naruto wasn’t a sensor, his Uzumaki bloodline made him, albeit somewhat, chakra sensitive. A faint trace of chakra, combined with the shifting winds, was the only indicator of the man’s arrival. Based from his first impression, the ravenette was high-leveled, dangerous, and formidable.
“I am,” confirmed Naruto. The redhead eyed the undeniably attractive man’s raven locks, pale complexion, and obsidian eyes. All of the sudden, recognition dawned on his expression, remembering his mother’s tales involving her best female friend; Uchiha. He flashed the older man a polite smile. “I wanted to surprise him,” he admitted. If an Uchiha spotted him, Naruto doubted he retained the element of surprise. Catching his old man off guard was, frustratingly, difficult. On the other hand, if Kami-sama smiled on him, the redhead may accomplish his goal. Regardless, Naruto was looking forward reuniting with his father. They haven’t seen each other for half a year. While the Yondaime actively visited his family, he had a village to run.
”May I escort you to the Hokage?”
He glanced at the bags clutched in the ravenette’s hand. Naruto shook his head, bowing respectively. “Thank you, but I don’t want to intrude,” he announced. Based from the man’s casual clothing, combined with the bags containing a book and sugary sweets, the Uchiha was off-duty. Naruto, more than anyone, knew the rarity of days-off. He savored them to the fullest. “Enjoy your day off, Uchiha-san,” he added. With a casual wave, the redhead hopped off the roof, vanishing in a swirl of smoke.
For a moment, Naruto recalled his mother’s description regarding the Uchiha clan. “Certainly polite for an Uchiha,” he thought, remembering his mother’s ranting. Uzumaki Kushina met her fair share of stick-in-the-muds. However, her best friend, a female Uchiha, was a breath of fresh air. Unlike her egotistical relatives, she was polite, kindhearted, and gentle. Naruto faintly remembered the woman’s face from a photograph, but he couldn’t recall her name.
A few minutes later, the redhead stopped in front of his destination; Hokage Tower. While he was tempted hopping through the window, thus surprising his father, Naruto suppressed the impulse. One, his father was the Yondaime. Two, the Yondaime had a personal team of ANBU guards. The last thing he needed was being attacked by ANBU. Naruto had confidence in his abilities, but the ANBU were the elite. The best of the best. Additionally, his mother would have his head for his improper behavior. If one thing frightened him the most, it was Uzumaki Kushina’s ire.
Without a word, Naruto entered the tower. After conversing with the front desk receptionist, including a flash of his traveling documents, the redhead navigated through the tower, stopping in front of the door leading to the Yondaime’s office. Before entering the tower, Naruto suppressed his chakra. While he desired maintaining the element of surprise, the redhead savored the last moments of peace. He loved his father, he really did, but once it concerned his family, Namikaze Minato was irrefutably exuberant. At times, borderline suffocating and overprotective. Being the son of the Yondaime Hokage and Uzushio Village Head, including heir of the Uzumaki clan, wasn’t easy. It came with expectations, regulations, and pressure. Kami-sama, the pressure. Since childhood, Naruto lived with it. As a prodigy, many people, clansmen or shinobi, expected great things from him. Thankfully, the redhead was blessed with loving, albeit protective, parents. However, Naruto was determined to make a name for himself. He wanted to prove he was more than the son of the Yellow Flash and Red Hot-Blooded Habanero.
After knocking on the door, Naruto opened it, poking his head inside. “Missed me, eh Tou-san?” he announced, flashing his father his signature grin. Since he didn’t detect additional chakra signatures inside the room, Naruto refrained exemplifying a polite, more respectful approach. Despite being his son, his father is the Yondaime.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
Itachi didn’t push the issue. He let the other pass by without any other remarks, and watched as the redhead jumped away across the rooftops heading towards the Hokage Tower. There was no way Itachi would be able to catch up to him unless he revealed his ANBU status, so he didn’t even try. Instead he jumped two rooftops away and approached what was, to all intents and purposes, a lightning rod. There were hundreds of them across all of Konoha, and they did their job well during the vicious summer storms that could crop up.
But they also served another purpose, and that was to let ANBU communicate with the Hokage without having to run to the Hokage Tower and back all the time. It was only for emergency purposes so it wasn’t usually used, but Itachi figured that this could be counted as a sort of emergency. He opened a small, rubber-isolated, hidden compartment in the rod. A quick note on a tiny piece of paper, a small exertion of chakra to activate the seals, and with a poof the paper disappeared.
There. He had done more than his duty for the day, Itachi figured as he jumped away towards the most peaceful place he knew of. There was a book and some dango with his name on it, and he was going to get some peace and quiet today, damn it, or people were going to catch hell.
Naruto may have given up on surprising his father, but said father had made no such silent promises. The second that Naruto entered the office, Minato dropped what he was doing and gleefully tackled his son for the biggest hug in all of creation. Squeezing the young man like a teddy-bear chew toy, the exalted Hokage cooed with pure delight.
“My little Naru-chan’s finally come! Awww, I’ve missed you so much! You’ve grown even taller since we saw each other last! Is that some new muscle definition that I see? Wait! Are those scars?! Who dared to hurt you?! Just tell papa their names and they’ll be gone in a second!” he couldn’t keep the angry mien for long however, and soon went back to cuddling the hell out of his son. “My little boy is all grown up! You look just like your mother! You act just like her, too! Does she know that you’re here? You didn’t leave Uzushio without telling her again, did you?”
At last he stopped talking and stepped back just enough to give Naruto space to breathe. But he still kept his hands on the redhead, determined not to let the young man out of his sight. Accomplished jounin or not, this was his baby boy, and nothing and no one would ever be able to convince him otherwise.
Minato smiled proudly, and ruffled Naruto’s spiky hair. “Welcome to Konoha, kiddo.”
But they also served another purpose, and that was to let ANBU communicate with the Hokage without having to run to the Hokage Tower and back all the time. It was only for emergency purposes so it wasn’t usually used, but Itachi figured that this could be counted as a sort of emergency. He opened a small, rubber-isolated, hidden compartment in the rod. A quick note on a tiny piece of paper, a small exertion of chakra to activate the seals, and with a poof the paper disappeared.
There. He had done more than his duty for the day, Itachi figured as he jumped away towards the most peaceful place he knew of. There was a book and some dango with his name on it, and he was going to get some peace and quiet today, damn it, or people were going to catch hell.
Naruto may have given up on surprising his father, but said father had made no such silent promises. The second that Naruto entered the office, Minato dropped what he was doing and gleefully tackled his son for the biggest hug in all of creation. Squeezing the young man like a teddy-bear chew toy, the exalted Hokage cooed with pure delight.
“My little Naru-chan’s finally come! Awww, I’ve missed you so much! You’ve grown even taller since we saw each other last! Is that some new muscle definition that I see? Wait! Are those scars?! Who dared to hurt you?! Just tell papa their names and they’ll be gone in a second!” he couldn’t keep the angry mien for long however, and soon went back to cuddling the hell out of his son. “My little boy is all grown up! You look just like your mother! You act just like her, too! Does she know that you’re here? You didn’t leave Uzushio without telling her again, did you?”
At last he stopped talking and stepped back just enough to give Naruto space to breathe. But he still kept his hands on the redhead, determined not to let the young man out of his sight. Accomplished jounin or not, this was his baby boy, and nothing and no one would ever be able to convince him otherwise.
Minato smiled proudly, and ruffled Naruto’s spiky hair. “Welcome to Konoha, kiddo.”
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
Whoosh.
”My little Naru-chan’s finally come!…”
All of the sudden, arms encircled his torso, pulling him against a broad chest. Naruto twitched against his father, struggling to inhale. “C-can’t … breath,” he gasped. His arms remained plastered against his sides, pinned by his father’s tight embrace. A few minutes later, the Yondaime loosened his grip. Naruto coughed, savoring the sweet oxygen filling his lungs. Before he could react, his father resumed his overzealous cuddling. Despite his predicament, the situation was almost comical. Namikaze Minato, the famed Yellow Flash and Yondaime Hokage, reduced to a exuberant, rambling fool. Naruto barely registered his father’s babbling, focused regaining his breath.
“Does she know that you’re here? You didn’t leave Uzushio without telling her again, did you?”
Shivers trickled down his spine. Never again. “And risk Kaa-san’s ire? I learned my lesson last time. She knows,” Naruto assured. For a moment, the redhead recalled the event his father hinted. Five years ago, before his promotion to Jōnin, Naruto accepted a mission from Uzushio’s former Village Head. It was a long-term mission in the Land of Iron. Due to his mother’s overprotectiveness, combined with the short timeframe to prepare, Naruto left without saying goodbye. By the time he returned, Uzumaki Kushina was pissed. Thank Kami-sama for his father’s surprise visit. Without him, the redhead doubted he would of survived her ire.
The Uzumaki were renowned for their temper, especially Uzumaki women.
”Welcome to Konoha, kiddo.”
His expression softened. A small, candid smile painted his lips. “Kaa-san threatened to throttle me if I didn’t try Ichiraku’s famous ramen,” Naruto mused. While nothing compared to his mother’s fabulous homemade ramen, she insisted he tried Ichiraku’s. Despite inheriting his father’s prodigal prowess, Naruto exemplified his mother’s boisterous personality. During his childhood, he was loudmouthed, unorthodox, and temperamental. He fell in love with ramen and adored the color orange. However, once he grew older, his rambunctious exuberance tapered. He became polite, composed, and level-headed. Underneath his calm visage, Naruto retained his mother’s temper, including her famed verbal tick.
“You busy?” inquired the redhead. Naruto peered over his father’s shoulder, glancing at his desk. “A tour of the village can wait. I’m starving,” he added.
”My little Naru-chan’s finally come!…”
All of the sudden, arms encircled his torso, pulling him against a broad chest. Naruto twitched against his father, struggling to inhale. “C-can’t … breath,” he gasped. His arms remained plastered against his sides, pinned by his father’s tight embrace. A few minutes later, the Yondaime loosened his grip. Naruto coughed, savoring the sweet oxygen filling his lungs. Before he could react, his father resumed his overzealous cuddling. Despite his predicament, the situation was almost comical. Namikaze Minato, the famed Yellow Flash and Yondaime Hokage, reduced to a exuberant, rambling fool. Naruto barely registered his father’s babbling, focused regaining his breath.
“Does she know that you’re here? You didn’t leave Uzushio without telling her again, did you?”
Shivers trickled down his spine. Never again. “And risk Kaa-san’s ire? I learned my lesson last time. She knows,” Naruto assured. For a moment, the redhead recalled the event his father hinted. Five years ago, before his promotion to Jōnin, Naruto accepted a mission from Uzushio’s former Village Head. It was a long-term mission in the Land of Iron. Due to his mother’s overprotectiveness, combined with the short timeframe to prepare, Naruto left without saying goodbye. By the time he returned, Uzumaki Kushina was pissed. Thank Kami-sama for his father’s surprise visit. Without him, the redhead doubted he would of survived her ire.
The Uzumaki were renowned for their temper, especially Uzumaki women.
”Welcome to Konoha, kiddo.”
His expression softened. A small, candid smile painted his lips. “Kaa-san threatened to throttle me if I didn’t try Ichiraku’s famous ramen,” Naruto mused. While nothing compared to his mother’s fabulous homemade ramen, she insisted he tried Ichiraku’s. Despite inheriting his father’s prodigal prowess, Naruto exemplified his mother’s boisterous personality. During his childhood, he was loudmouthed, unorthodox, and temperamental. He fell in love with ramen and adored the color orange. However, once he grew older, his rambunctious exuberance tapered. He became polite, composed, and level-headed. Underneath his calm visage, Naruto retained his mother’s temper, including her famed verbal tick.
“You busy?” inquired the redhead. Naruto peered over his father’s shoulder, glancing at his desk. “A tour of the village can wait. I’m starving,” he added.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
It was good that Kushina knew where Naruto was, because Hokage or not, Yellow Flash or not, Minato wasn’t certain that he would be able to survive Kushina’s fury otherwise. The first time had been more than bad enough, and Minato wasn’t embarrassed to say that he was terrified of Kushina in a rage. It had nothing to do with the Kyuubi, it was just pure Kushina. The same thing that had attracted him was utterly terrifying when turned on it.
“I’m not surprised at all. The best place to find your mother was always at Ichiraku’s. Wait there long enough and she would always show up. I’m surprised that she hasn’t insisted on coming along simply just to visit Ichiraku’s.” Minato smiled at his son. He gave him another hug just because he could, but it wasn’t quite as tight as the previous hugs before. “You know, sometimes I think that she doesn’t want to visit me at all, and instead comes here for the ramen.”
Minato led the way out of the office, waving off his secretary. There was nothing to be done about the ANBU guard, but at least they were very subtle about their stalking. It was Naruto’s presence that helped them getting out of the Hokage Tower, otherwise Minato would have been stopped half a dozen times to deal with paperwork, and once they were out on the street, Minato gave Naruto another hug.
“I haven’t been able to walk out of the Hokage Tower this quickly in gods know how long! Unless I leave by the windows like Kakashi I won’t be getting home until midnight.” He waved at a couple of ninja on their way into the Tower. Minato kept to the streets as he steered Naruto through the streets, occasionally pointing out something. “Turn down that way and you’ll find the market with its stalls and booths, it’s caravan season in Konoha right now so there’s lots to see there. If you take that road you’ll come to the Hyuuga district, and over in that direction you’ll find the police force – it’s the white building you can barely see over the rooftops. And if you follow your nose you’ll come to the Akimichi district. We’ll have to eat there, too, while you’re here. They have the best dango in all the village.”
It took about ten minutes of slow walking and numerous greetings before Ichiraku’s ramen stand came into view around a corner. There were only a few other guests there, and Minato pushed the noren curtains aside for himself and Naruto, waiting for the young man to take a seat before he did himself.
“Now, I’m about two weeks ahead on the paperwork so unless something serious happens, I’ll be able to spend most of my time with you while you’re here.” He said before turning to Teuchi and Ayame. “One shoyu ramen, please, Teuchi-san.”
“Of course, Hokage-sama.” The old man smiled brightly as his daughter started to prepare it. “And is this your son? What does the young man want?”
“I’m not surprised at all. The best place to find your mother was always at Ichiraku’s. Wait there long enough and she would always show up. I’m surprised that she hasn’t insisted on coming along simply just to visit Ichiraku’s.” Minato smiled at his son. He gave him another hug just because he could, but it wasn’t quite as tight as the previous hugs before. “You know, sometimes I think that she doesn’t want to visit me at all, and instead comes here for the ramen.”
Minato led the way out of the office, waving off his secretary. There was nothing to be done about the ANBU guard, but at least they were very subtle about their stalking. It was Naruto’s presence that helped them getting out of the Hokage Tower, otherwise Minato would have been stopped half a dozen times to deal with paperwork, and once they were out on the street, Minato gave Naruto another hug.
“I haven’t been able to walk out of the Hokage Tower this quickly in gods know how long! Unless I leave by the windows like Kakashi I won’t be getting home until midnight.” He waved at a couple of ninja on their way into the Tower. Minato kept to the streets as he steered Naruto through the streets, occasionally pointing out something. “Turn down that way and you’ll find the market with its stalls and booths, it’s caravan season in Konoha right now so there’s lots to see there. If you take that road you’ll come to the Hyuuga district, and over in that direction you’ll find the police force – it’s the white building you can barely see over the rooftops. And if you follow your nose you’ll come to the Akimichi district. We’ll have to eat there, too, while you’re here. They have the best dango in all the village.”
It took about ten minutes of slow walking and numerous greetings before Ichiraku’s ramen stand came into view around a corner. There were only a few other guests there, and Minato pushed the noren curtains aside for himself and Naruto, waiting for the young man to take a seat before he did himself.
“Now, I’m about two weeks ahead on the paperwork so unless something serious happens, I’ll be able to spend most of my time with you while you’re here.” He said before turning to Teuchi and Ayame. “One shoyu ramen, please, Teuchi-san.”
“Of course, Hokage-sama.” The old man smiled brightly as his daughter started to prepare it. “And is this your son? What does the young man want?”
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"You know, sometimes I think that she doesn't want to visit me at all, and instead comes here for the ramen."
Naruto barked out a laugh. His cerulean eyes gleamed with amusement. "Kaa-san had official Village Head business. She couldn't leave," he informed. A mischievous grin plastered on his face. "I wouldn't be surprised, though. Kaa-san would marry ramen if she could," he teased. The redhead snickered at his father's pouting expression. Naruto patted his father's back, maintaining his signature grin. Together, they left the Hokage Tower. While he couldn't detect their chakra signatures, Naruto anticipated his father's personal ANBU tailing them. Unlike his mother's elite, the ANBU were more subtle, masking their presences immaculately. On the other hand, the redhead knew his mother's ANBU personally. Detecting them compared to his father's ANBU was easier.
Twenty minutes later, after countless greetings and touring, the Yondaime and his son arrived at Ichiraku's. Despite the overwhelming tour, Naruto committed his father's commentary to memory. Konoha was colorful, festive, and populated. Kami-sama, the number of civilians, including shinobi folk, hustling and bustling through the streets was astounding, albeit excessive. Naruto was no stranger to large crowds, especially during caravan season, but his village's population paled in comparison to Konoha's. Uzushio was strong, but small. Very tight-knit compared to one of the Great Five Nations.
"...What does the young man want?"
Snapping out of his stupor, Naruto flashed the older man a candid smile. "I'm Uzumaki Naruto. It's nice to meet you, Teuchi-san," he introduced politely. His mother would have his head for improper manners. The redhead sat in front of the stall table, flanking his father's left side. "One miso chāshū ōmori ramen, -ttebayo!" chirped the Uzushio jōnin. Without another word, the redhead glanced at the additional guests lingering inside the ramen stand. Based from their appearance, Naruto deduced civilians. By the time Teuchi returned with their orders, they were the only customers residing inside the establishment. The Uzumaki heir broke apart a pair of chopsticks, devouring a generous amount of noodles. He blinked, surprise evident on his expression.
"Kaa-san was right ... Ichiraku's is the best ramen establishment in the Land of Fire," Naruto mumbled, voice tinged with awe. He resumed eating, savoring the delectable taste. The redhead wouldn't admit it, but Ichiraku's was almost as best as his mother's homemade ramen. Almost. "I can see why Kaa-san wants to marry it," he added, flashing his father a cheeky grin. While Naruto was disappointed his mother couldn't leave Uzushio, a part of him was grateful. One overprotective parent was enough. Instead of visiting for a few weeks, Naruto was scheduled staying in Konoha for a year. It was considered a long-term vacation slash cultural mission. During his extended visit, the redhead intended learning everything about his father's village, including the way of Konoha shinobi.
After his third serving, Naruto deemed himself full. Normally, once it involved ramen, the redhead was a bottomless pit. However, he was eager exploring the massive village, especially the training grounds. "Ne, Tou-san, I have a new jutsu I'm developing. I adapted it from Rasengan," Naruto informed. Once he graduated the Academy, his father taught him his signature wind technique; Rasengan. While the redhead was determined inventing his own signature moves, he altered his father's technique, inventing a more powerful version. It required a copious amount of chakra. Despite his Uzumaki reserves, including the exposure of Kyūbi's chakra, Naruto was limited to three hits before his chakra depleted.
"By the way, I convinced Kaa-san to extend my visit. I'll be staying here for an entire year," he announced. Technically, the initial timeframe was one month. However, after relentless persuasion, it transformed into an official mission slash vacation. Since he wanted to surprise his old man, Naruto refrained exposing the truth until he stepped inside Konoha.
Naruto barked out a laugh. His cerulean eyes gleamed with amusement. "Kaa-san had official Village Head business. She couldn't leave," he informed. A mischievous grin plastered on his face. "I wouldn't be surprised, though. Kaa-san would marry ramen if she could," he teased. The redhead snickered at his father's pouting expression. Naruto patted his father's back, maintaining his signature grin. Together, they left the Hokage Tower. While he couldn't detect their chakra signatures, Naruto anticipated his father's personal ANBU tailing them. Unlike his mother's elite, the ANBU were more subtle, masking their presences immaculately. On the other hand, the redhead knew his mother's ANBU personally. Detecting them compared to his father's ANBU was easier.
Twenty minutes later, after countless greetings and touring, the Yondaime and his son arrived at Ichiraku's. Despite the overwhelming tour, Naruto committed his father's commentary to memory. Konoha was colorful, festive, and populated. Kami-sama, the number of civilians, including shinobi folk, hustling and bustling through the streets was astounding, albeit excessive. Naruto was no stranger to large crowds, especially during caravan season, but his village's population paled in comparison to Konoha's. Uzushio was strong, but small. Very tight-knit compared to one of the Great Five Nations.
"...What does the young man want?"
Snapping out of his stupor, Naruto flashed the older man a candid smile. "I'm Uzumaki Naruto. It's nice to meet you, Teuchi-san," he introduced politely. His mother would have his head for improper manners. The redhead sat in front of the stall table, flanking his father's left side. "One miso chāshū ōmori ramen, -ttebayo!" chirped the Uzushio jōnin. Without another word, the redhead glanced at the additional guests lingering inside the ramen stand. Based from their appearance, Naruto deduced civilians. By the time Teuchi returned with their orders, they were the only customers residing inside the establishment. The Uzumaki heir broke apart a pair of chopsticks, devouring a generous amount of noodles. He blinked, surprise evident on his expression.
"Kaa-san was right ... Ichiraku's is the best ramen establishment in the Land of Fire," Naruto mumbled, voice tinged with awe. He resumed eating, savoring the delectable taste. The redhead wouldn't admit it, but Ichiraku's was almost as best as his mother's homemade ramen. Almost. "I can see why Kaa-san wants to marry it," he added, flashing his father a cheeky grin. While Naruto was disappointed his mother couldn't leave Uzushio, a part of him was grateful. One overprotective parent was enough. Instead of visiting for a few weeks, Naruto was scheduled staying in Konoha for a year. It was considered a long-term vacation slash cultural mission. During his extended visit, the redhead intended learning everything about his father's village, including the way of Konoha shinobi.
After his third serving, Naruto deemed himself full. Normally, once it involved ramen, the redhead was a bottomless pit. However, he was eager exploring the massive village, especially the training grounds. "Ne, Tou-san, I have a new jutsu I'm developing. I adapted it from Rasengan," Naruto informed. Once he graduated the Academy, his father taught him his signature wind technique; Rasengan. While the redhead was determined inventing his own signature moves, he altered his father's technique, inventing a more powerful version. It required a copious amount of chakra. Despite his Uzumaki reserves, including the exposure of Kyūbi's chakra, Naruto was limited to three hits before his chakra depleted.
"By the way, I convinced Kaa-san to extend my visit. I'll be staying here for an entire year," he announced. Technically, the initial timeframe was one month. However, after relentless persuasion, it transformed into an official mission slash vacation. Since he wanted to surprise his old man, Naruto refrained exposing the truth until he stepped inside Konoha.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
“Nice to meet you too, Uzumaki-san, and coming right up!” Teuchi burst into laughter at Naruto’s exclamation, looking over at the Hokage who was smiling fondly. “I remember another one who used to say that. All bright red hair and a fiery temper. This youngling here,” he nodded to Minato, “used to follow her around like a duckling.”
“Teuchi-san!” Minato flushed lightly at that, scratching his cheek in embarrassment, but he didn’t deny it. Nor did he seem to truly mind it either. Instead he dug into the ramen that was placed in front of him, eating much slower than Naruto, and keeping an eye at the young man at his side.
Contrary to what one would expect of such a boisterous, doting father, Naruto’s announcement of being able to stay for an entire year didn’t bring the expected gushing and wild planning for father-son time. Minato smiled, and it was clear that he was quietly overjoyed at having his beloved son with him for such a long time. But there was a tinge of worry in his eyes, in the corner of his mouth, even in his posture.
“A yeah, huh? Are you certain that you can stand your old man for that long?” he joked, ruffling Naruto’s red hair for a moment but then trailing off to simply running his fingers through the locks as if Naruto was a little child. He cast a look at Teuchi and Ayame, but they were busy serving other customers, and a quick hand sign had the invisible ANBU guard watching specifically for people who would want to overhear.
“You have no idea how much I’ve wished to be able to have you with me all the time, to see you grow up from day to day. More than once I was ready to abandon position and village and come live with you in Uzushio.” Minato sighed wistfully, stilling his hand atop Naruto’s head. “Don’t think that I don’t want you here just because my reaction may be a bit lacking, I’m just worried. A few weeks wouldn’t have given certain people enough time to get to you. A year however? Well…”
He shrugged lightly. He would never regret being Naruto’s father, and he loved that he had such a good relationship with the boy despite rarely being able to actually visit. But what Minato did regret was all the trouble that his son would end up in simply because of his father. Throw in his mother and his birth right and Uzushiogakure? Naruto made a very tempting target for all sorts of plots. Assassination, seduction, abduction, blackmail., brainwashing and torture to name but a few.
“All the possibilities are going to drive me paranoid, but it’ll be worth it to have you here.” Minato shook the gloom away, deciding that it could wait for another couple of hours. Instead he smiled at Naruto and leaned in. “Now for the most important question of all, my boy! Where do you want to live? I want you with me, heaven knows, and I’d love for you to stay in my home. But I also remember what it was like being young, and I can understand it if you want to stay in your own apartment. Or you can try both options during your stay here, just let me know what you want, okay? Don’t hesitate to take advantage of your papa. It’s a staple in a father-son relationship I’m told.”
“Teuchi-san!” Minato flushed lightly at that, scratching his cheek in embarrassment, but he didn’t deny it. Nor did he seem to truly mind it either. Instead he dug into the ramen that was placed in front of him, eating much slower than Naruto, and keeping an eye at the young man at his side.
Contrary to what one would expect of such a boisterous, doting father, Naruto’s announcement of being able to stay for an entire year didn’t bring the expected gushing and wild planning for father-son time. Minato smiled, and it was clear that he was quietly overjoyed at having his beloved son with him for such a long time. But there was a tinge of worry in his eyes, in the corner of his mouth, even in his posture.
“A yeah, huh? Are you certain that you can stand your old man for that long?” he joked, ruffling Naruto’s red hair for a moment but then trailing off to simply running his fingers through the locks as if Naruto was a little child. He cast a look at Teuchi and Ayame, but they were busy serving other customers, and a quick hand sign had the invisible ANBU guard watching specifically for people who would want to overhear.
“You have no idea how much I’ve wished to be able to have you with me all the time, to see you grow up from day to day. More than once I was ready to abandon position and village and come live with you in Uzushio.” Minato sighed wistfully, stilling his hand atop Naruto’s head. “Don’t think that I don’t want you here just because my reaction may be a bit lacking, I’m just worried. A few weeks wouldn’t have given certain people enough time to get to you. A year however? Well…”
He shrugged lightly. He would never regret being Naruto’s father, and he loved that he had such a good relationship with the boy despite rarely being able to actually visit. But what Minato did regret was all the trouble that his son would end up in simply because of his father. Throw in his mother and his birth right and Uzushiogakure? Naruto made a very tempting target for all sorts of plots. Assassination, seduction, abduction, blackmail., brainwashing and torture to name but a few.
“All the possibilities are going to drive me paranoid, but it’ll be worth it to have you here.” Minato shook the gloom away, deciding that it could wait for another couple of hours. Instead he smiled at Naruto and leaned in. “Now for the most important question of all, my boy! Where do you want to live? I want you with me, heaven knows, and I’d love for you to stay in my home. But I also remember what it was like being young, and I can understand it if you want to stay in your own apartment. Or you can try both options during your stay here, just let me know what you want, okay? Don’t hesitate to take advantage of your papa. It’s a staple in a father-son relationship I’m told.”
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"I remember another one who used to say that. All bright red hair and a fiery temper. This youngling here used to follow her around like a duckling."
Naruto snickered at his father's flustered expression. "Sounds like Teuchi-san has some interesting stories," he mused. His cerulean eyes gleamed with mirth.
"That I do, Uzumaki-san. That I do," agreed said ramen chef.
"A year, huh? Are you certain that you can stand your old man for that long?"
All of the sudden, his father's demeanor changed. It was subtle, almost nonexistent to a civilian. However, Naruto was a highly-trained Uzushio shinobi. He spotted the slight shift in posture, small crease in the corner of his mouth, and the faint glint in his eyes. While the Yondaime was overjoyed, his jubilance was shadowed by concern. A frown marred his lips. "Tou-san?" he inquired. A hand draped on his head, ruffling his brilliant ruby locks.
"Don't think that I don't want you here because my reaction may be a bit lacking, I'm just worried. A few weeks wouldn't have given certain people enough time to get to you. A year however? Well..."
Realization dawned on his expression. Oh. His expression softened a bit. Naruto lifted his hand, clutching the wrist connected to the palm mussing his unruly spikes. "Kaa-san had the same concern. She fought tooth and nail to refrain extending the timeframe," he admitted. A small chuckle rumbled through his chest. "I thought I was a goner when she lost her temper," he added. The redhead suppressed a shiver, banishing the memory of his mother's intimidating ire. Kami-sama, Uzumaki women were downright crazy. "I've been targeted before on missions, Tou-san. I know Kaa-san and you worry, but..." Naruto retracted his hand, lowering his arm. He averted his gaze, staring at the passing crowd. Since childhood, the redhead learned the dangers being the son of the Yellow Flash and heir of the famed Uzumaki clan. His parents, especially his father, had various enemies, painting a large target on his back. Their concern was completely justified. However, instead of living in fear, Naruto acknowledged the dangers, accepting them. To make a name for himself, he refused giving up.
"...I'll be fine, ne? I might not live in Konohagakure, but it's part of my history. I was born here. That's why I requested the extension. If I'm destined to be the next Uzumaki Clan Head, I want to know my village's greatest ally. Kaa-san's history lessons aren't enough," Naruto announced. He glanced at his father, flashing him his signature grin. "I can't learn everything in just one month. I might be a prodigy like you, but Konoha is huge. There's a lot to learn," he pointed out. Naruto tapped the metal plate on his hitai-ate. "I plan being Uzushio's next Village Head, 'ttebayo. Kaa-san will have my head if I slack off," he declared. While the redhead was eager learning everything about Konohagakure, Uzushiogakure was his home first and foremost.
"...Where do you want to live? I want you with me, heaven knows, and I'd love for you to stay in my home. But I also remember what it was like being young, and I can understand it if you want to stay in your own apartment. Or you can try both options during your stay here, just let me know what you want, okay? Don't hesitate to take advantage of your papa. It's a staple in a father-son relationship I'm told."
A sweatdrop formed on the back of the Uzumaki heir's head. "I'll ... find an apartment," Naruto replied. Despite living within the Uzumaki compound in Uzushio, the redhead moved out of the main house two years ago, living in a quaint establishment near his mother's home. After the spark of independence, Naruto wasn't keen revoking it. On the other hand, the redhead wasn't opposed visiting his old man frequently. "For now, though, I'll stay with you. Until I find a place," he added. Due to his father's status, it wouldn't take much. Perks of familial connections. All of the sudden, a face flashed inside his mind.
"Neh, Tou-san, how familiar are you with the Uchiha?" Naruto inquired, curiosity tinging his tone.
Naruto snickered at his father's flustered expression. "Sounds like Teuchi-san has some interesting stories," he mused. His cerulean eyes gleamed with mirth.
"That I do, Uzumaki-san. That I do," agreed said ramen chef.
"A year, huh? Are you certain that you can stand your old man for that long?"
All of the sudden, his father's demeanor changed. It was subtle, almost nonexistent to a civilian. However, Naruto was a highly-trained Uzushio shinobi. He spotted the slight shift in posture, small crease in the corner of his mouth, and the faint glint in his eyes. While the Yondaime was overjoyed, his jubilance was shadowed by concern. A frown marred his lips. "Tou-san?" he inquired. A hand draped on his head, ruffling his brilliant ruby locks.
"Don't think that I don't want you here because my reaction may be a bit lacking, I'm just worried. A few weeks wouldn't have given certain people enough time to get to you. A year however? Well..."
Realization dawned on his expression. Oh. His expression softened a bit. Naruto lifted his hand, clutching the wrist connected to the palm mussing his unruly spikes. "Kaa-san had the same concern. She fought tooth and nail to refrain extending the timeframe," he admitted. A small chuckle rumbled through his chest. "I thought I was a goner when she lost her temper," he added. The redhead suppressed a shiver, banishing the memory of his mother's intimidating ire. Kami-sama, Uzumaki women were downright crazy. "I've been targeted before on missions, Tou-san. I know Kaa-san and you worry, but..." Naruto retracted his hand, lowering his arm. He averted his gaze, staring at the passing crowd. Since childhood, the redhead learned the dangers being the son of the Yellow Flash and heir of the famed Uzumaki clan. His parents, especially his father, had various enemies, painting a large target on his back. Their concern was completely justified. However, instead of living in fear, Naruto acknowledged the dangers, accepting them. To make a name for himself, he refused giving up.
"...I'll be fine, ne? I might not live in Konohagakure, but it's part of my history. I was born here. That's why I requested the extension. If I'm destined to be the next Uzumaki Clan Head, I want to know my village's greatest ally. Kaa-san's history lessons aren't enough," Naruto announced. He glanced at his father, flashing him his signature grin. "I can't learn everything in just one month. I might be a prodigy like you, but Konoha is huge. There's a lot to learn," he pointed out. Naruto tapped the metal plate on his hitai-ate. "I plan being Uzushio's next Village Head, 'ttebayo. Kaa-san will have my head if I slack off," he declared. While the redhead was eager learning everything about Konohagakure, Uzushiogakure was his home first and foremost.
"...Where do you want to live? I want you with me, heaven knows, and I'd love for you to stay in my home. But I also remember what it was like being young, and I can understand it if you want to stay in your own apartment. Or you can try both options during your stay here, just let me know what you want, okay? Don't hesitate to take advantage of your papa. It's a staple in a father-son relationship I'm told."
A sweatdrop formed on the back of the Uzumaki heir's head. "I'll ... find an apartment," Naruto replied. Despite living within the Uzumaki compound in Uzushio, the redhead moved out of the main house two years ago, living in a quaint establishment near his mother's home. After the spark of independence, Naruto wasn't keen revoking it. On the other hand, the redhead wasn't opposed visiting his old man frequently. "For now, though, I'll stay with you. Until I find a place," he added. Due to his father's status, it wouldn't take much. Perks of familial connections. All of the sudden, a face flashed inside his mind.
"Neh, Tou-san, how familiar are you with the Uchiha?" Naruto inquired, curiosity tinging his tone.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
Kushina was beyond scary when she was angry, and Minato didn’t comment on his son’s shudder. That was just an expected reaction, really. Instead he smiled at Naruto, feeling even more wistful than before. His little bundle of joy was really growing up, wanting independence and to make his own way in the world. It was a good thing that Naruto was a Jounin, otherwise nothing could have convinced Minato to let him live on his own.
“Awww! My little Naru-chan’s all grown up.” He sighed happily. “I’m just glad you’ve managed to put up with our overprotectiveness for so long, kid. I know both your mother and I can get a bit… overwhelming. I try to mind myself, but put it this way: even had you been able to defeat me with one hand tied behind your back and blindfolded, you would have still been my little baby boy no matter what.”
He finished off his ramen – one simple bowl to Naruto’s three – and handed Teuchi the required money. The old ramen chef brought over some simple, home-made sweets and put them on the counter between Naruto and Minato, insisting that it was “on the house” when Minato tried to pay. Teuchi quickly made himself scarce to keep the Hokage from tricking him into accepting payment, and Ayame was left giggling where she was washing up some dishes.
“I’m not allowed to even pay people anymore.” Minato pouted slightly even as he picked up one of the sweets and bit into it. “Mm. Delicious as always, Ayame-san. Please tell your eavesdropping father that I’ll pay double next time.”
“Will do, Hokage-sama!” the young woman chirped with a grin.
Minato turned back to his son, raising an eyebrow at the question. “It’s a bit difficult not to know them, but I know those in the ninja force or the police force the best. Why do you ask? Did you meet an Uchiha recently? Did something happen? They didn’t try to stop you from trying to enter Konoha, did they? They can be a bit… overzealous in their duties sometimes.”
Minato was pretty certain what this was about, but he couldn’t reveal the hidden ANBU means of communication even to his most beloved and precious little baby boy. No matter how much he may have wanted to.
He did stare carefully at Naruto for a moment though. “You’re not going to play pranks on them, are you? If you do, please keep the pranks from being too humiliating. Or, better yet, come to me and we’ll go through together which Uchiha would take a prank as a mortal offence and which Uchiha wouldn’t, okay?”
Because it was impossible to stop Naruto from playing pranks. He got that one from his mother.
“Awww! My little Naru-chan’s all grown up.” He sighed happily. “I’m just glad you’ve managed to put up with our overprotectiveness for so long, kid. I know both your mother and I can get a bit… overwhelming. I try to mind myself, but put it this way: even had you been able to defeat me with one hand tied behind your back and blindfolded, you would have still been my little baby boy no matter what.”
He finished off his ramen – one simple bowl to Naruto’s three – and handed Teuchi the required money. The old ramen chef brought over some simple, home-made sweets and put them on the counter between Naruto and Minato, insisting that it was “on the house” when Minato tried to pay. Teuchi quickly made himself scarce to keep the Hokage from tricking him into accepting payment, and Ayame was left giggling where she was washing up some dishes.
“I’m not allowed to even pay people anymore.” Minato pouted slightly even as he picked up one of the sweets and bit into it. “Mm. Delicious as always, Ayame-san. Please tell your eavesdropping father that I’ll pay double next time.”
“Will do, Hokage-sama!” the young woman chirped with a grin.
Minato turned back to his son, raising an eyebrow at the question. “It’s a bit difficult not to know them, but I know those in the ninja force or the police force the best. Why do you ask? Did you meet an Uchiha recently? Did something happen? They didn’t try to stop you from trying to enter Konoha, did they? They can be a bit… overzealous in their duties sometimes.”
Minato was pretty certain what this was about, but he couldn’t reveal the hidden ANBU means of communication even to his most beloved and precious little baby boy. No matter how much he may have wanted to.
He did stare carefully at Naruto for a moment though. “You’re not going to play pranks on them, are you? If you do, please keep the pranks from being too humiliating. Or, better yet, come to me and we’ll go through together which Uchiha would take a prank as a mortal offence and which Uchiha wouldn’t, okay?”
Because it was impossible to stop Naruto from playing pranks. He got that one from his mother.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"Awww! My little Naru-chan's all grown up!"
Said redhead scratched the back of his neck. "Kaa-san and you wrote the book on overprotective, 'ttebayo," Naruto muttered. He retracted his hand, lowering his arm. The Uzumaki heir flushed at his father's cooing. Kami-sama, the redhead loved his father, but he was the definition of embarrassing. Naruto averted his gaze, suppressing the temptation shunshin'ing outside Ichiraku's. The owner, including his daughter, snickered at the sight, furthering his embarrassment.
"You’re not going to play pranks on them, are you? If you do, please keep the pranks from being too humiliating. Or, better yet, come to me and we’ll go through together which Uchiha would take a prank as a mortal offence and which Uchiha wouldn’t, okay?"
A chuckle rumbled through his chest. Despite tapering his childhood boisterous personality, Naruto loved pranks. In Uzushiogakure, the redhead developed the habit pranking his mother's personal ANBU elite. Their reactions never ceased to amuse him. Once his mother joined in, all hell broke loose. "No," assured Naruto. For the moment, no Konoha citizen was on his hit list. "I encountered an Uchiha on my way to the tower. He was exceptionally polite. I was curious if you knew him. Kaa-san warned me they're, I quote, 'holier-than-thou stick-in-the-muds, 'ttebane'. With the exception of her best friend," he elaborated. Naruto retrieved a homemade sweet from the counter, taking a bite.
"Ne, Tou-san, is there a training ground I can practice my-" All of the sudden, a shrill voice cut him off,
"Shannaro!"
Crash.
Naruto blinked, staring at the dark heap near his feet; a pale-skinned boy his age.
"Forehead! What the hell!" a feminine voice screeched.
Without warning, an attractive blonde rushed to the fallen boy's side, helping him on his feet. From the corner of her eye, the blonde spotted a familiar face. Her eyes widened in horror. "H-Hokage-sama!" she squeaked. She bowed respectively, forcing the boy to bow with her.
"You heard what he said, Ino-pig!" Out of nowhere, Naruto's eyes were assaulted with the color pink. An additional female appeared, face reddened with ire. Her short tresses were cherry blossom pink. His eyes widened at the sight. Was she a descendant of the Uzumaki?
"Sakura, stop being annoying," drawled a smooth, tenor voice. A tall boy approached the scene, hands jammed in his pockets. Recognition dawned on the Uzumaki heir's expression; an Uchiha. The shinobi pivoted to his left, facing the Yondaime. He bowed respectively. "Apologies for the disturbance, Hokage-sama," he announced. His uniform indicated his profession; Konoha police.
Said female glanced at the ramen stand, spotting a familiar man. Similar to her blonde best friend, she froze. Mortification etched on her expression. Suppressing a squeak, Sakura bowed low, following her boyfriend's example. "Sorry, H-Hokage-sama," she apologized.
Naruto pressed a hand against his lips, suppressing his laughter. His cerulean eyes glinted with amusement. For a moment, the redhead wondered what initiated the scene. Based from his observations, the rosette hit the raven-haired boy flanking the blonde's side. Did the teen offend her? "Obviously," he thought, biting back a snort.
Said redhead scratched the back of his neck. "Kaa-san and you wrote the book on overprotective, 'ttebayo," Naruto muttered. He retracted his hand, lowering his arm. The Uzumaki heir flushed at his father's cooing. Kami-sama, the redhead loved his father, but he was the definition of embarrassing. Naruto averted his gaze, suppressing the temptation shunshin'ing outside Ichiraku's. The owner, including his daughter, snickered at the sight, furthering his embarrassment.
"You’re not going to play pranks on them, are you? If you do, please keep the pranks from being too humiliating. Or, better yet, come to me and we’ll go through together which Uchiha would take a prank as a mortal offence and which Uchiha wouldn’t, okay?"
A chuckle rumbled through his chest. Despite tapering his childhood boisterous personality, Naruto loved pranks. In Uzushiogakure, the redhead developed the habit pranking his mother's personal ANBU elite. Their reactions never ceased to amuse him. Once his mother joined in, all hell broke loose. "No," assured Naruto. For the moment, no Konoha citizen was on his hit list. "I encountered an Uchiha on my way to the tower. He was exceptionally polite. I was curious if you knew him. Kaa-san warned me they're, I quote, 'holier-than-thou stick-in-the-muds, 'ttebane'. With the exception of her best friend," he elaborated. Naruto retrieved a homemade sweet from the counter, taking a bite.
"Ne, Tou-san, is there a training ground I can practice my-" All of the sudden, a shrill voice cut him off,
"Shannaro!"
Crash.
Naruto blinked, staring at the dark heap near his feet; a pale-skinned boy his age.
"Forehead! What the hell!" a feminine voice screeched.
Without warning, an attractive blonde rushed to the fallen boy's side, helping him on his feet. From the corner of her eye, the blonde spotted a familiar face. Her eyes widened in horror. "H-Hokage-sama!" she squeaked. She bowed respectively, forcing the boy to bow with her.
"You heard what he said, Ino-pig!" Out of nowhere, Naruto's eyes were assaulted with the color pink. An additional female appeared, face reddened with ire. Her short tresses were cherry blossom pink. His eyes widened at the sight. Was she a descendant of the Uzumaki?
"Sakura, stop being annoying," drawled a smooth, tenor voice. A tall boy approached the scene, hands jammed in his pockets. Recognition dawned on the Uzumaki heir's expression; an Uchiha. The shinobi pivoted to his left, facing the Yondaime. He bowed respectively. "Apologies for the disturbance, Hokage-sama," he announced. His uniform indicated his profession; Konoha police.
Said female glanced at the ramen stand, spotting a familiar man. Similar to her blonde best friend, she froze. Mortification etched on her expression. Suppressing a squeak, Sakura bowed low, following her boyfriend's example. "Sorry, H-Hokage-sama," she apologized.
Naruto pressed a hand against his lips, suppressing his laughter. His cerulean eyes glinted with amusement. For a moment, the redhead wondered what initiated the scene. Based from his observations, the rosette hit the raven-haired boy flanking the blonde's side. Did the teen offend her? "Obviously," he thought, biting back a snort.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
It was only long familiarity with the situation and the people involved that made sure that the ANBU guard didn’t react to the sudden shouting and appearance of new people on the scene. Minato just watched the byplay in amusement, eating another sweet. He could always count on the young people of Konoha to give him entertainment whenever he wanted it. If it didn’t come from his own student, then it would definitely come from his student’s students.
“Sakura, Sasuke, Ino, Sai. Good day to you four as well. I see everything is as normal with you.” He smiled at them, waving off their proper greetings easily and ignoring the way they had appeared. As said: it was normal. Some of the ANBU even insisted that the kids and their arguments were a better way to keep time than even watches.
Minato gestured to Naruto. “May I introduce to you my son, Uzumaki Naruto? He’ll be staying in Konoha for a good while from today on. He’s around your age, so I think you’ll get on swimmingly. Naruto, this is Haruno Sakura, Yamanaka Ino, Uchiha Sasuke and Sai. Sakura’s been taking lessons from Tsunade-san.”
That was a reason to both be very afraid and also not be afraid at all. A medic who could break all your bones in alphabetical order and then patch you up again was a terrifying thing, and Ibiki had been hinting at wanting the pink-haired girl to have a stint in T&I.
“Ah, and Sasuke-kun,” Minato turned to the young Uchiha. “Do you know were your brother is? I think Naruto ran into him as he entered the village, and he seems curious about him. And your mother would probably like to know that Naruto’s here, too.”
“A dickless tomato.” Sai muttered, having been looking Naruto up and down. This time it was Ino who reacted, kicking the pale boy between the legs and pretending that nothing had happened as Sai crumpled to the ground with a high-pitched wheeze.
Minato winced and cast a worried look at the boy, but otherwise let it be. The girl had been defending the virtue of his baby, so he would let it slide. For now.
“Sakura, Sasuke, Ino, Sai. Good day to you four as well. I see everything is as normal with you.” He smiled at them, waving off their proper greetings easily and ignoring the way they had appeared. As said: it was normal. Some of the ANBU even insisted that the kids and their arguments were a better way to keep time than even watches.
Minato gestured to Naruto. “May I introduce to you my son, Uzumaki Naruto? He’ll be staying in Konoha for a good while from today on. He’s around your age, so I think you’ll get on swimmingly. Naruto, this is Haruno Sakura, Yamanaka Ino, Uchiha Sasuke and Sai. Sakura’s been taking lessons from Tsunade-san.”
That was a reason to both be very afraid and also not be afraid at all. A medic who could break all your bones in alphabetical order and then patch you up again was a terrifying thing, and Ibiki had been hinting at wanting the pink-haired girl to have a stint in T&I.
“Ah, and Sasuke-kun,” Minato turned to the young Uchiha. “Do you know were your brother is? I think Naruto ran into him as he entered the village, and he seems curious about him. And your mother would probably like to know that Naruto’s here, too.”
“A dickless tomato.” Sai muttered, having been looking Naruto up and down. This time it was Ino who reacted, kicking the pale boy between the legs and pretending that nothing had happened as Sai crumpled to the ground with a high-pitched wheeze.
Minato winced and cast a worried look at the boy, but otherwise let it be. The girl had been defending the virtue of his baby, so he would let it slide. For now.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"May I introduce to you my son, Uzumaki Naruto? He’ll be staying in Konoha for a good while from today on. He’s around your age, so I think you’ll get on swimmingly. Naruto, this is Haruno Sakura, Yamanaka Ino, Uchiha Sasuke and Sai. Sakura’s been taking lessons from Tsunade-san."
Said redhead flashed the teenagers his signature grin. Sunlight beamed on his hitai-ate, enhancing the circled whirlpool engraved on his forehead protector's metallic plate. "It's nice to meet all of you. Perhaps, we can have a friendly spar sometime, ne?" Naruto announced politely. The Uzumaki heir blinked at his father's last sentence. Tsunade? He glanced at the petal-haired kunoichi flanking the Uchiha's side. "You're Tsunade-baa-chan's apprentice?" he inquired, voice tinged with curiosity. It explained the fallen boy's entrance, especially if Haruno learned the Sannin's signature technique.
Sakura twitched at the honorific. She mustered a polite smile, suppressing the urge to punch the disrespectful redhead. "Yes. I been her apprentice for a few years," she replied.
"You know Tsunade-sama?" Ino questioned.
Naruto scratched the back of his head. "Tsunade-baa-chan visits Uzushio from time to time," he answered.
"A dickless tomato."
His eyebrow twitched. The hell? Before he could react, Yamanaka slammed her foot between the pale-skinned boy's legs. The teen, or Sai, dropped almost immediately. Naruto winced in sympathy. Ouch. "Does he always insult strangers?" he inquired, directing his attention to the platinum blonde.
Ino waved her hand dismissively. "Sai can be tactless with his nicknames. It's harmless, I assure you," she replied. The blonde made a mental note to lecture her boyfriend once they left.
The redhead glanced at the fallen boy. That was a nickname?
Ignoring his fallen teammate, Sasuke addressed the Yondaime. "I'll let my mother know, Hokage-sama." He averted his gaze, staring at the redhead flanking the Yondaime's left side. "Itachi has the day off. If I had to guess, he's at the Dango Shop or somewhere remote to read," he added. Due to his elder brother's penchant for sweets, especially dango, Sasuke anticipated the former.
Naruto tilted his head, studying the younger Uchiha sibling. Compared to his older brother, Sasuke was more blasé, or aloof. The way he carried himself, combined with his uniform, exemplified his shinobi background. Similar to his brother, a dangerous aura surrounded the short-haired Uchiha. For a moment, Naruto felt a spark of anticipation; he wanted to spar with the younger sibling. "Ne, Tou-san, is there a training ground open right now?" he inquired, averting his gaze. The redhead snatched the last piece of candy, popping it inside his mouth.
Said redhead flashed the teenagers his signature grin. Sunlight beamed on his hitai-ate, enhancing the circled whirlpool engraved on his forehead protector's metallic plate. "It's nice to meet all of you. Perhaps, we can have a friendly spar sometime, ne?" Naruto announced politely. The Uzumaki heir blinked at his father's last sentence. Tsunade? He glanced at the petal-haired kunoichi flanking the Uchiha's side. "You're Tsunade-baa-chan's apprentice?" he inquired, voice tinged with curiosity. It explained the fallen boy's entrance, especially if Haruno learned the Sannin's signature technique.
Sakura twitched at the honorific. She mustered a polite smile, suppressing the urge to punch the disrespectful redhead. "Yes. I been her apprentice for a few years," she replied.
"You know Tsunade-sama?" Ino questioned.
Naruto scratched the back of his head. "Tsunade-baa-chan visits Uzushio from time to time," he answered.
"A dickless tomato."
His eyebrow twitched. The hell? Before he could react, Yamanaka slammed her foot between the pale-skinned boy's legs. The teen, or Sai, dropped almost immediately. Naruto winced in sympathy. Ouch. "Does he always insult strangers?" he inquired, directing his attention to the platinum blonde.
Ino waved her hand dismissively. "Sai can be tactless with his nicknames. It's harmless, I assure you," she replied. The blonde made a mental note to lecture her boyfriend once they left.
The redhead glanced at the fallen boy. That was a nickname?
Ignoring his fallen teammate, Sasuke addressed the Yondaime. "I'll let my mother know, Hokage-sama." He averted his gaze, staring at the redhead flanking the Yondaime's left side. "Itachi has the day off. If I had to guess, he's at the Dango Shop or somewhere remote to read," he added. Due to his elder brother's penchant for sweets, especially dango, Sasuke anticipated the former.
Naruto tilted his head, studying the younger Uchiha sibling. Compared to his older brother, Sasuke was more blasé, or aloof. The way he carried himself, combined with his uniform, exemplified his shinobi background. Similar to his brother, a dangerous aura surrounded the short-haired Uchiha. For a moment, Naruto felt a spark of anticipation; he wanted to spar with the younger sibling. "Ne, Tou-san, is there a training ground open right now?" he inquired, averting his gaze. The redhead snatched the last piece of candy, popping it inside his mouth.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
Minato leaned slightly over to get a better look at the sky and exactly where the sun was. He hummed a bit and then thought back to when he had received Itachi’s message, and exactly how long Naruto had been with him. Then he leaned back in and groped for the last sweet only to blink and pout when it disappeared into Naruto.
He sighed. “Well, judging from the time I’d say Itachi has had more than enough time to finish his first snack. He’s probably already on his second snack-run knowing him.” Minato gestured to Ayame to bring another platter of sweets, and the girl smiled as she placed it in front of them. Minato grabbed the first one and gobbled it down before Naruto could.
Naruto didn’t get his love of food from his mother alone.
“All training grounds except number 44 are open – and trust me, there’s no way you’ll miss number 44 if you come across it. Don’t go in there without escort. I don’t doubt that you would manage relatively easily, but that’s one of the grounds that the ANBU use regularly, and I’d rather prefer you didn’t end up skewered by paranoid ninja.”
Ino grimaced at the reminder of that particular place, Sasuke looked uncomfortable and Sakura rubbed her arms as if remembering a very bad experience. Even Sai looked slightly nauseous at the mention of training ground 44, but that could just be the kick still affecting him.
“I suppose you could drop by all grounds and just find one. If there’s someone there, then simply move on. Otherwise I’d recommend going to training ground two. It’s the furthest away from Konoha proper.” Minato looked at Naruto. “Are you certain that you don’t want to rest from your travels, though? You’ve been on the road for… what? A week now?”
Depending on Naruto’s travel speed the distance between Konoha and Uzushio could be covered in as little as ninety-six hours if one ran at ANBU speed and without a single stop along the way.
He sighed. “Well, judging from the time I’d say Itachi has had more than enough time to finish his first snack. He’s probably already on his second snack-run knowing him.” Minato gestured to Ayame to bring another platter of sweets, and the girl smiled as she placed it in front of them. Minato grabbed the first one and gobbled it down before Naruto could.
Naruto didn’t get his love of food from his mother alone.
“All training grounds except number 44 are open – and trust me, there’s no way you’ll miss number 44 if you come across it. Don’t go in there without escort. I don’t doubt that you would manage relatively easily, but that’s one of the grounds that the ANBU use regularly, and I’d rather prefer you didn’t end up skewered by paranoid ninja.”
Ino grimaced at the reminder of that particular place, Sasuke looked uncomfortable and Sakura rubbed her arms as if remembering a very bad experience. Even Sai looked slightly nauseous at the mention of training ground 44, but that could just be the kick still affecting him.
“I suppose you could drop by all grounds and just find one. If there’s someone there, then simply move on. Otherwise I’d recommend going to training ground two. It’s the furthest away from Konoha proper.” Minato looked at Naruto. “Are you certain that you don’t want to rest from your travels, though? You’ve been on the road for… what? A week now?”
Depending on Naruto’s travel speed the distance between Konoha and Uzushio could be covered in as little as ninety-six hours if one ran at ANBU speed and without a single stop along the way.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
“All training grounds except number 44 are open – and trust me, there’s no way you’ll miss number 44 if you come across it. Don’t go in there without escort. I don’t doubt that you would manage relatively easily, but that’s one of the grounds that the ANBU use regularly, and I’d rather prefer you didn’t end up skewered by paranoid ninja.”
Naruto arched an eyebrow, spotting the subtle shifts in body language. Did something happen in Training Ground 44? "I'll keep that in mind," he muttered. Despite his rising curiosity, Naruto knew better to defy his father's orders. Subconsciously, the redhead rubbed his left side, tracing the jagged scar underneath his clothed ribs. In Uzushio, there was a training ground dedicated to his mother's ANBU elite. The terrain was massive, dangerous, and temperamental. During the beginning stages of developing his technique, Naruto ignored his mother's warnings, infiltrating the training ground. Suffice to say, he earned himself one ticket to the hospital, including a wicked scar on his ribs. As punishment, Naruto endured one month of D-rank missions.
“Are you certain that you don’t want to rest from your travels, though? You’ve been on the road for… what? A week now?”
"Four days," corrected the redhead. At civilian speed, it took at least a week, maybe more, to travel to Uzushio. Since he trained with his mother's elite, a perk being the Village Head's son, Naruto reduced it to four days, or ninety-six hours. Instead of traveling non-stop, the redhead incorporated timely breaks throughout the journey, including short sleeping schedules. While he was fast, Naruto couldn't afford fatigue clouding his judgement. "If you taught me Hiraishin, I could of gotten here faster," he pointed out. Despite his prodigal prowess, the redhead never learned his father's signature technique; the same technique earning him the moniker, Yellow Flash. According to the Yondaime, until he earned a mastery in Fūinjutsu, his father wouldn't teach him the technique. Fortunately, a couple months prior, Naruto received his mastery. Regardless of his prodigal status, the sealing arts were an extensive, albeit delicate process. It took him years to learn two styles; Uzushio and Konoha. The last style stemmed from his father's sensei, Ero-Sennin, or Jiraiya. The Uzumaki heir was looking forward learning his father's technique.
The girls blinked in surprise. "Four days?" they parroted.
A frown marred his lips. Regarding speed, four days indicated ANBU territory. Or, at least, high-leveled Jōnin. Considering his lineage, Sasuke wasn't surprised the Yondaime's son inherited his father's exceptional agility. Even without the Yondaime's infamous technique, the redhead reduced the journey to four days.
He scratched his cheekbone. "I don't plan training extensively today, Tou-san," Naruto assured. He glanced at the Uchiha, noticing his pensive expression. "I want to explore the grounds first. I'll leave my official training regime for tomorrow," he added. Before slipping into a comfortable routine, the redhead intended selecting a training ground suited for his abilities. Naruto made a mental note to acquire an escort for Training Ground 44. The Uzumaki heir was curious about the dangerous terrain.
Sakura bowed respectively. "It's nice meeting you, Uzumaki-san, but we have to get going. Again, sorry for the interruption," she announced politely.
"Right!" Without another word, Ino forced her boyfriend to stand. Before Sai could comment, the blonde slapped a hand over his mouth. A sheepish smile adorned her face. "Have a nice day, Hokage-sama, Uzumaki-san," she added. After a respectful bow, the Yamanaka dragged her boyfriend away, ignoring his slightly-nauseous state.
Naruto watched the group of four leave. His eyes lingered on the younger Uchiha sibling. "Ne, didn't Kakashi-senpai teach an Uchiha on his designated genin team?" he inquired. The redhead averted his gaze, staring at his father. During his childhood, the Uzumaki met his father's sole surviving student, Hatake Kakashi.
Naruto arched an eyebrow, spotting the subtle shifts in body language. Did something happen in Training Ground 44? "I'll keep that in mind," he muttered. Despite his rising curiosity, Naruto knew better to defy his father's orders. Subconsciously, the redhead rubbed his left side, tracing the jagged scar underneath his clothed ribs. In Uzushio, there was a training ground dedicated to his mother's ANBU elite. The terrain was massive, dangerous, and temperamental. During the beginning stages of developing his technique, Naruto ignored his mother's warnings, infiltrating the training ground. Suffice to say, he earned himself one ticket to the hospital, including a wicked scar on his ribs. As punishment, Naruto endured one month of D-rank missions.
“Are you certain that you don’t want to rest from your travels, though? You’ve been on the road for… what? A week now?”
"Four days," corrected the redhead. At civilian speed, it took at least a week, maybe more, to travel to Uzushio. Since he trained with his mother's elite, a perk being the Village Head's son, Naruto reduced it to four days, or ninety-six hours. Instead of traveling non-stop, the redhead incorporated timely breaks throughout the journey, including short sleeping schedules. While he was fast, Naruto couldn't afford fatigue clouding his judgement. "If you taught me Hiraishin, I could of gotten here faster," he pointed out. Despite his prodigal prowess, the redhead never learned his father's signature technique; the same technique earning him the moniker, Yellow Flash. According to the Yondaime, until he earned a mastery in Fūinjutsu, his father wouldn't teach him the technique. Fortunately, a couple months prior, Naruto received his mastery. Regardless of his prodigal status, the sealing arts were an extensive, albeit delicate process. It took him years to learn two styles; Uzushio and Konoha. The last style stemmed from his father's sensei, Ero-Sennin, or Jiraiya. The Uzumaki heir was looking forward learning his father's technique.
The girls blinked in surprise. "Four days?" they parroted.
A frown marred his lips. Regarding speed, four days indicated ANBU territory. Or, at least, high-leveled Jōnin. Considering his lineage, Sasuke wasn't surprised the Yondaime's son inherited his father's exceptional agility. Even without the Yondaime's infamous technique, the redhead reduced the journey to four days.
He scratched his cheekbone. "I don't plan training extensively today, Tou-san," Naruto assured. He glanced at the Uchiha, noticing his pensive expression. "I want to explore the grounds first. I'll leave my official training regime for tomorrow," he added. Before slipping into a comfortable routine, the redhead intended selecting a training ground suited for his abilities. Naruto made a mental note to acquire an escort for Training Ground 44. The Uzumaki heir was curious about the dangerous terrain.
Sakura bowed respectively. "It's nice meeting you, Uzumaki-san, but we have to get going. Again, sorry for the interruption," she announced politely.
"Right!" Without another word, Ino forced her boyfriend to stand. Before Sai could comment, the blonde slapped a hand over his mouth. A sheepish smile adorned her face. "Have a nice day, Hokage-sama, Uzumaki-san," she added. After a respectful bow, the Yamanaka dragged her boyfriend away, ignoring his slightly-nauseous state.
Naruto watched the group of four leave. His eyes lingered on the younger Uchiha sibling. "Ne, didn't Kakashi-senpai teach an Uchiha on his designated genin team?" he inquired. The redhead averted his gaze, staring at his father. During his childhood, the Uzumaki met his father's sole surviving student, Hatake Kakashi.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
"If I taught you Hiraishin, then your mother would have my balls on a platter. She's utterly terrified that you'll get hurt by running into a wall, or getting stuck in a wall. She wanted to be here during the time it took you to learn, and the stipulations about Sealing were just the first part of that training." Minato looked a bit awkward at having to admit to his son that it had, mostly, been a trick. But Kushina was damned scary and really, this wasn't something he would have gone against her on, demands or no demands.
He ruffled Naruto's hair. "Good going on getting here in four days, though, even if there was no rush. I hope the journey was comfortable, there are some truly stunning vistas along the route that your mother enjoys greatly. I proposed to her on one of those."
He bid the girls and Sai goodbye, and then turned to look between Sasuke and Naruto, eyes flickering from one to the other. "Yep, Kakashi did. This is his student," he gestured to Sasuke, "and Sakura was on the team as well. I'm surprised that Konoha still stands after all their antics. There are a lot of stories that I can tell you about Team Seven."
Sasuke looked on the verge of either blushing or running away in mortification, but manfully managed to not do either. Minato chuckled at the young man's reacitons, and patted Naruto's shoulder, gently urging him up off his seat and towards Sasuke at the same time.
"Now, here's an idea, boys. Sasuke, unless you're busy why don't you take Naruto and go a quick walkabout in the village in search of your brother? If you don't find him, then you can head on to training ground two. In fact, I think you might find Itachi there rather than in the village. It's the place he goes to for reading if I remember correctly, and I suspect that he has managed to somehow blackmail some of the rookie ANBU agents to bring him dango whenever he wants it." Minato smiled at that, not at all worried about the possible corruption. "Wish I could bribe them to do my paperwork."
He got off the seat and stretched. "While you two do that, I'll finish some stuff up at the office and then I'll get your room set up, Naruto. Itachi or Sasuke can lead you to the house. Is that alright with you two?"
He ruffled Naruto's hair. "Good going on getting here in four days, though, even if there was no rush. I hope the journey was comfortable, there are some truly stunning vistas along the route that your mother enjoys greatly. I proposed to her on one of those."
He bid the girls and Sai goodbye, and then turned to look between Sasuke and Naruto, eyes flickering from one to the other. "Yep, Kakashi did. This is his student," he gestured to Sasuke, "and Sakura was on the team as well. I'm surprised that Konoha still stands after all their antics. There are a lot of stories that I can tell you about Team Seven."
Sasuke looked on the verge of either blushing or running away in mortification, but manfully managed to not do either. Minato chuckled at the young man's reacitons, and patted Naruto's shoulder, gently urging him up off his seat and towards Sasuke at the same time.
"Now, here's an idea, boys. Sasuke, unless you're busy why don't you take Naruto and go a quick walkabout in the village in search of your brother? If you don't find him, then you can head on to training ground two. In fact, I think you might find Itachi there rather than in the village. It's the place he goes to for reading if I remember correctly, and I suspect that he has managed to somehow blackmail some of the rookie ANBU agents to bring him dango whenever he wants it." Minato smiled at that, not at all worried about the possible corruption. "Wish I could bribe them to do my paperwork."
He got off the seat and stretched. "While you two do that, I'll finish some stuff up at the office and then I'll get your room set up, Naruto. Itachi or Sasuke can lead you to the house. Is that alright with you two?"
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"If I taught you Hiraishin, then your mother would have my balls on a platter. She's utterly terrified that you'll get hurt by running into a wall, or getting stuck in a wall. She wanted to be here during the time it took you to learn, and the stipulations about Sealing were just the first part of that training."
A huff escaped his lips. "Kaa-san's too busy to visit for a long period of time," Naruto pointed out. No doubt, it would take more than a week to learn his father's signature technique. "Plus, I earned my mastery in Fūinjutsu two months ago. I can handle it without Kaa-san hovering," he added. Despite his father's hesitance, Naruto refused giving in. He was determined learning his father's signature move, consequences be damned. "Kaa-san mentioned it in her previous letters, correct?" he inquired. The owner's daughter, Ayame, giggled at his disgruntled expression. From the corner of his eye, Naruto spotted the younger Uchiha. It seemed he stayed behind, not following his petal-haired girlfriend.
"Yep, Kakashi did. This is his student ... and Sakura was on the team as well. I'm surprised that Konoha still stands after all their antics. There are a lot of stories that I can tell you about Team Seven."
He arched an eyebrow. "Oh?" Naruto glanced at the raven-haired shinobi. A smirk painted his lips, noticing the taller male's subtle shift in body language. "I can't wait to hear all about it," he mused, earning a glare from the Uchiha. His grin widened in response. "I haven't seen Kakashi-senpai since I was twelve," he commented. Five years ago, the Yondaime removed Kakashi from the ANBU, assigning him a genin team. Before, the silver-haired shinobi was apart of the ANBU elite guarding his father during his annual visits to Uzushio. There, the redhead met his father's student. "Does he still read Icha Icha in public?" he questioned, recalling the ninja's habit. Once his mother realized the man's habit, she was furious.
Sasuke huffed. "All the time," he muttered.
"Now, here's an idea, boys. Sasuke, unless you're busy why don't you take Naruto and go a quick walkabout in the village in search of your brother? If you don't find him, then you can head on to training ground two. In fact, I think you might find Itachi there rather than in the village. It's the place he goes to for reading if I remember correctly, and I suspect that he has managed to somehow blackmail some of the rookie ANBU agents to bring him dango whenever he wants it."
All of the sudden, a hand clamped on his shoulder, urging him closer to the taller ravenette. Naruto pivoted to his left, facing his old man. After his suggestion, the redhead arched an eyebrow. What? Based from his expression, the younger Uchiha sibling reflected his reaction. Naruto glanced at his senpai's student. It shouldn't be too bad, right?
"...holier-than-thou stick-in-the-muds, 'ttebane,"
The redhead suppressed a groan. He plastered his signature grin on his face, masking the conflicting emotions inside his chest. Hopefully, Uchiha Sasuke wasn't an arrogant bastard. "I'm fine with it," Naruto assured. He stretched his arms above his head, rolling his shoulders. Before his father could react, the Uzumaki heir snatched all the remaining candy inside the bowl provided. "I'll see you later tonight," he announced. Naruto flashed his old man a cheeky grin, turned around, and followed the retreating Uchiha.
"Hn." After bowing respectively, Sasuke pivoted to his right, sauntering down the street. Instead of scouring the village, in search for his wayward brother, the tall ravenette headed toward Training Ground Two. Knowing his brother, it was the likeliest place he resided. Sasuke jammed his hands in his pockets, maintaining his leisurely pace.
Naruto munched on his handful of candy, flanking the Uchiha's right side. "Want some?" he offered politely.
His nose wrinkled at the sight. "Pass," Sasuke rejected. Unlike his older brother, he didn't develop a sweet tooth.
The redhead shrugged, continuing consuming his sweets. Before arriving at Training Ground Two, they stopped at the Dango Shop. There, Naruto purchased two plates of Hanami dango, one of his favorite sweets. Twenty minutes later, the duo stepped inside the designated training field. The Uzumaki heir surveyed his surroundings, keeping his eyes peeled for a certain long-haired shinobi.
A huff escaped his lips. "Kaa-san's too busy to visit for a long period of time," Naruto pointed out. No doubt, it would take more than a week to learn his father's signature technique. "Plus, I earned my mastery in Fūinjutsu two months ago. I can handle it without Kaa-san hovering," he added. Despite his father's hesitance, Naruto refused giving in. He was determined learning his father's signature move, consequences be damned. "Kaa-san mentioned it in her previous letters, correct?" he inquired. The owner's daughter, Ayame, giggled at his disgruntled expression. From the corner of his eye, Naruto spotted the younger Uchiha. It seemed he stayed behind, not following his petal-haired girlfriend.
"Yep, Kakashi did. This is his student ... and Sakura was on the team as well. I'm surprised that Konoha still stands after all their antics. There are a lot of stories that I can tell you about Team Seven."
He arched an eyebrow. "Oh?" Naruto glanced at the raven-haired shinobi. A smirk painted his lips, noticing the taller male's subtle shift in body language. "I can't wait to hear all about it," he mused, earning a glare from the Uchiha. His grin widened in response. "I haven't seen Kakashi-senpai since I was twelve," he commented. Five years ago, the Yondaime removed Kakashi from the ANBU, assigning him a genin team. Before, the silver-haired shinobi was apart of the ANBU elite guarding his father during his annual visits to Uzushio. There, the redhead met his father's student. "Does he still read Icha Icha in public?" he questioned, recalling the ninja's habit. Once his mother realized the man's habit, she was furious.
Sasuke huffed. "All the time," he muttered.
"Now, here's an idea, boys. Sasuke, unless you're busy why don't you take Naruto and go a quick walkabout in the village in search of your brother? If you don't find him, then you can head on to training ground two. In fact, I think you might find Itachi there rather than in the village. It's the place he goes to for reading if I remember correctly, and I suspect that he has managed to somehow blackmail some of the rookie ANBU agents to bring him dango whenever he wants it."
All of the sudden, a hand clamped on his shoulder, urging him closer to the taller ravenette. Naruto pivoted to his left, facing his old man. After his suggestion, the redhead arched an eyebrow. What? Based from his expression, the younger Uchiha sibling reflected his reaction. Naruto glanced at his senpai's student. It shouldn't be too bad, right?
"...holier-than-thou stick-in-the-muds, 'ttebane,"
The redhead suppressed a groan. He plastered his signature grin on his face, masking the conflicting emotions inside his chest. Hopefully, Uchiha Sasuke wasn't an arrogant bastard. "I'm fine with it," Naruto assured. He stretched his arms above his head, rolling his shoulders. Before his father could react, the Uzumaki heir snatched all the remaining candy inside the bowl provided. "I'll see you later tonight," he announced. Naruto flashed his old man a cheeky grin, turned around, and followed the retreating Uchiha.
"Hn." After bowing respectively, Sasuke pivoted to his right, sauntering down the street. Instead of scouring the village, in search for his wayward brother, the tall ravenette headed toward Training Ground Two. Knowing his brother, it was the likeliest place he resided. Sasuke jammed his hands in his pockets, maintaining his leisurely pace.
Naruto munched on his handful of candy, flanking the Uchiha's right side. "Want some?" he offered politely.
His nose wrinkled at the sight. "Pass," Sasuke rejected. Unlike his older brother, he didn't develop a sweet tooth.
The redhead shrugged, continuing consuming his sweets. Before arriving at Training Ground Two, they stopped at the Dango Shop. There, Naruto purchased two plates of Hanami dango, one of his favorite sweets. Twenty minutes later, the duo stepped inside the designated training field. The Uzumaki heir surveyed his surroundings, keeping his eyes peeled for a certain long-haired shinobi.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
“I’ll ask your mother. That’s all I can promise for now, kid. Now go and have fun, and leave my sweets alone!” Minato grabbed for them, but it was too late and Naruto was already walking away. The Hokage didn’t bother chasing after his son and instead leaned back on the counter, watching the two young men walking away with a nostalgic smile on his face. When Naruto and Sasuke turned a corner, Minato turned to look at the proprietor. “They make me feel so old! It’s horrible! One more platter of sweets to go, I need something to keep me going while dealing with the paperwork.”
Teuchi chuckled. “Coming right up, Hokage-sama.”
Training Ground Two was indeed occupied by one Uchiha Itachi. He had hidden away in a copse of trees that provided just enough shade but also just enough sun and warmth. There was a trickle of a stream passing by that provided water and soft background noise. There were a few birds flying about, and if Itachi didn’t periodically turn a page or grab for a stick of dango, the birds probably would have landed on him and started to build a nest in his hair.
A bag was smoothed out next to him to act as a buffer between the ground and his sweets on one half, while the other half held his books. Two books lay on the bag, the titles revealing them to be classical works of romance and fantasy. A third book – with the infamous title “50 Shades of Shinobi” proudly emblazoned on the spine in gold lettering – was held up in front of Itachi’s face as he read it.
Itachi lifted one hand, fingers moving about as if he was trying to re-enact whatever he was reading. He stopped several times, tried to do it all over again, and then turned the book sideways in hopes that it would help. In the end he could only drop his hand and shake his head, but he seemed utterly delighted.
“This author has no idea what they’re writing about.” He muttered with a pleased hum, wriggling slightly to get into a better position. It was a ridiculous book, terribly written and down-right degrading in some parts, but the writing being so terrible and the author obviously not knowing a thing about what they were writing was what made it hilarious.
Itachi was certainly amused, a small chuckle leaving him occasionally as he forced himself to continue.
Teuchi chuckled. “Coming right up, Hokage-sama.”
Training Ground Two was indeed occupied by one Uchiha Itachi. He had hidden away in a copse of trees that provided just enough shade but also just enough sun and warmth. There was a trickle of a stream passing by that provided water and soft background noise. There were a few birds flying about, and if Itachi didn’t periodically turn a page or grab for a stick of dango, the birds probably would have landed on him and started to build a nest in his hair.
A bag was smoothed out next to him to act as a buffer between the ground and his sweets on one half, while the other half held his books. Two books lay on the bag, the titles revealing them to be classical works of romance and fantasy. A third book – with the infamous title “50 Shades of Shinobi” proudly emblazoned on the spine in gold lettering – was held up in front of Itachi’s face as he read it.
Itachi lifted one hand, fingers moving about as if he was trying to re-enact whatever he was reading. He stopped several times, tried to do it all over again, and then turned the book sideways in hopes that it would help. In the end he could only drop his hand and shake his head, but he seemed utterly delighted.
“This author has no idea what they’re writing about.” He muttered with a pleased hum, wriggling slightly to get into a better position. It was a ridiculous book, terribly written and down-right degrading in some parts, but the writing being so terrible and the author obviously not knowing a thing about what they were writing was what made it hilarious.
Itachi was certainly amused, a small chuckle leaving him occasionally as he forced himself to continue.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"Ne, Sasuke-san, do you see-" A pale hand cut him off, pointing at a cluster of trees across the clearing, near a tranquil stream.
"There," murmured the younger Uchiha.
Naruto blinked, his cerulean eyes following the hand's direction. He surveyed the grove of trees, focusing on the woven branches. A speck of black manifested in a sea of forest green and earthy brown. The redhead expanded his senses, detecting a familiar trace of chakra. The elder Uchiha's signature reminded him of a burning campfire; warm, soothing, and fiery. "Should I-" Before he could react, Sasuke turned around, leaving the training grounds. "Oi! You leaving already?" Naruto didn't bother hiding the scowl carved on his expression.
The ravenette stopped. He glanced in the redhead's direction. "I have to finish my rounds," Sasuke replied. Without another word, the short-haired Uchiha continued his pace, vanishing in a puff of smoke.
His eyebrow twitched. "Kaa-san was right," Naruto grumbled. The redhead pivoted to his left, facing the direction of the trees. He tilted his head, studying the speck of black. After further inspection, Naruto spotted the elder Uchiha sitting directly underneath the tallest tree within the grove. Did the older Uchiha sibling sense him? "Most likely," he thought. After consuming a piece of dango, the Uzumaki heir vanished in a swirl of smoke. A few seconds later, he appeared on a branch above the lounging Uchiha. To avoid a kunai to the face, Naruto refrained shunshin'ing on the ground the older shinobi occupied. The redhead crouched on his branch, inspecting the book clutched in the elder man's hand. Recognition dawned on his expression.
"Ne, I never pegged an Uchiha reading trashy literature," Naruto announced. He munched on his dango stick, taking a seat on the sturdy branch. His legs dangled over the edge.
"There," murmured the younger Uchiha.
Naruto blinked, his cerulean eyes following the hand's direction. He surveyed the grove of trees, focusing on the woven branches. A speck of black manifested in a sea of forest green and earthy brown. The redhead expanded his senses, detecting a familiar trace of chakra. The elder Uchiha's signature reminded him of a burning campfire; warm, soothing, and fiery. "Should I-" Before he could react, Sasuke turned around, leaving the training grounds. "Oi! You leaving already?" Naruto didn't bother hiding the scowl carved on his expression.
The ravenette stopped. He glanced in the redhead's direction. "I have to finish my rounds," Sasuke replied. Without another word, the short-haired Uchiha continued his pace, vanishing in a puff of smoke.
His eyebrow twitched. "Kaa-san was right," Naruto grumbled. The redhead pivoted to his left, facing the direction of the trees. He tilted his head, studying the speck of black. After further inspection, Naruto spotted the elder Uchiha sitting directly underneath the tallest tree within the grove. Did the older Uchiha sibling sense him? "Most likely," he thought. After consuming a piece of dango, the Uzumaki heir vanished in a swirl of smoke. A few seconds later, he appeared on a branch above the lounging Uchiha. To avoid a kunai to the face, Naruto refrained shunshin'ing on the ground the older shinobi occupied. The redhead crouched on his branch, inspecting the book clutched in the elder man's hand. Recognition dawned on his expression.
"Ne, I never pegged an Uchiha reading trashy literature," Naruto announced. He munched on his dango stick, taking a seat on the sturdy branch. His legs dangled over the edge.
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redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
It was impossible not to know when his little brother was in the vicinity, his chakra was so familiar. The same could be said with someone totally new in all of Konoha. However, it was only good manners to pretend not to know, so Itachi just focused on his book until the tell-tale sound and rush of smoke appeared above him.
“Trashy as it might be, the amount of ways the author finds to refer to sex or genitals is truly inspiring.” He replied. “If I use half the scenes of this book in a genjutsu, the world would be at my feet, brains dribbling out of their ears.”
The only reason Itachi hadn’t already made himself ruler of the entire world, was because the amount of paperwork was not something he wanted to deal with. Neither was the sheer amount of human stupidity. He saw regularly what the Hokage had to go through with, and there was no way he was going to torture himself by going through that.
Lowering the book, Itachi focused more on the redhead in the tree. “I see you have met my eloquent younger brother, Uzumaki-san. I hope he was polite?”
It was sad that the best he could hope for was for his little brother – or practically all other Uchiha – to be coldly polite. They were a very private clan, and it was to their detriment unfortunately. Not only that, but they put a lot of stock in keeping their honour and pride intact.
“I asked once before and you turned me down, but I shall ask again: may I help you with something, Uzumaki-san?” he cocked an eyebrow.
“Trashy as it might be, the amount of ways the author finds to refer to sex or genitals is truly inspiring.” He replied. “If I use half the scenes of this book in a genjutsu, the world would be at my feet, brains dribbling out of their ears.”
The only reason Itachi hadn’t already made himself ruler of the entire world, was because the amount of paperwork was not something he wanted to deal with. Neither was the sheer amount of human stupidity. He saw regularly what the Hokage had to go through with, and there was no way he was going to torture himself by going through that.
Lowering the book, Itachi focused more on the redhead in the tree. “I see you have met my eloquent younger brother, Uzumaki-san. I hope he was polite?”
It was sad that the best he could hope for was for his little brother – or practically all other Uchiha – to be coldly polite. They were a very private clan, and it was to their detriment unfortunately. Not only that, but they put a lot of stock in keeping their honour and pride intact.
“I asked once before and you turned me down, but I shall ask again: may I help you with something, Uzumaki-san?” he cocked an eyebrow.
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"If I use half the scenes of this book in a genjutsu, the world would be at my feet, brains dribbling out of their ears."
Naruto stiffened, recalling the trashy scenes featured in the book. Thanks to a certain Ero-Sennin, the Uzumaki heir read the monstrosity. All of the sudden, a full-body shudder surged down his spine. "Kami-sama, you're evil," he muttered. Despite his prodigal prowess, Naruto wasn't adept using genjutsu. He understood the concept, theory, and fundamentals of said technique. The redhead learned how to detect and dispel. However, due to his Uzumaki reserves, his chakra control was too wild for the finesse and subtlety required in genjutsu. Regardless of his disadvantage, Naruto mastered two genjutsu techniques; Demonic Illusion: Hell Viewing Technique and Heavenly Illusion: Heaven Viewing Technique. Unfortunately, they were the only genjutsu techniques in his arsenal.
"I see you have met my eloquent younger brother, Uzumaki-san. I hope he was polite?"
After regaining his composure, Naruto snorted at the comment. "Mostly blasé than polite," he grumbled. While the ravenette exemplified genuine respectfulness and politeness to his father, the younger Uchiha was cold, more aloof. It reminded him of the prideful elders he endured during clan meetings in Uzushio. Kami-sama, he hated politics.
"I asked you once before and you turned me down, but I shall ask you again: may I help you with something, Uzumaki-san?"
The redhead shifted, resting his back against the tree. His right leg propped on the branch; left leg dangling over the edge. "I wanted to know if you're available to spar sometime," Naruto answered. He munched on a piece of dango. "I know you're ANBU. I developed the habit sparring with my Kaa-san's elite back home. I got my ass handed to me more times I care to admit, but that's Uzushio for you. I like the challenge," he added. Uzushio was small, but strong. While his father never mentioned the elder Uchiha's profession, it didn't take him long to connect the dots. After training with his mother's elite, Naruto learned the signs. Plus, the offhand comment, rookie ANBU agents, made it painfully obvious.
Naruto stiffened, recalling the trashy scenes featured in the book. Thanks to a certain Ero-Sennin, the Uzumaki heir read the monstrosity. All of the sudden, a full-body shudder surged down his spine. "Kami-sama, you're evil," he muttered. Despite his prodigal prowess, Naruto wasn't adept using genjutsu. He understood the concept, theory, and fundamentals of said technique. The redhead learned how to detect and dispel. However, due to his Uzumaki reserves, his chakra control was too wild for the finesse and subtlety required in genjutsu. Regardless of his disadvantage, Naruto mastered two genjutsu techniques; Demonic Illusion: Hell Viewing Technique and Heavenly Illusion: Heaven Viewing Technique. Unfortunately, they were the only genjutsu techniques in his arsenal.
"I see you have met my eloquent younger brother, Uzumaki-san. I hope he was polite?"
After regaining his composure, Naruto snorted at the comment. "Mostly blasé than polite," he grumbled. While the ravenette exemplified genuine respectfulness and politeness to his father, the younger Uchiha was cold, more aloof. It reminded him of the prideful elders he endured during clan meetings in Uzushio. Kami-sama, he hated politics.
"I asked you once before and you turned me down, but I shall ask you again: may I help you with something, Uzumaki-san?"
The redhead shifted, resting his back against the tree. His right leg propped on the branch; left leg dangling over the edge. "I wanted to know if you're available to spar sometime," Naruto answered. He munched on a piece of dango. "I know you're ANBU. I developed the habit sparring with my Kaa-san's elite back home. I got my ass handed to me more times I care to admit, but that's Uzushio for you. I like the challenge," he added. Uzushio was small, but strong. While his father never mentioned the elder Uchiha's profession, it didn't take him long to connect the dots. After training with his mother's elite, Naruto learned the signs. Plus, the offhand comment, rookie ANBU agents, made it painfully obvious.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
He nodded to the blond in thanks for the compliment, a small upturn at the corner of his lip showing just how much he enjoyed being called ‘evil’. Shinobi tended to disregard just how many ideas one could get from books, and especially fantasy books. Itachi enjoyed showing them the errors of their ways.
Well, that did sound like Sasuke. The kid was taking after Fugaku more than anything, but the work at the police force was perfect for him. There had been a time a couple of years ago when Sasuke had been in really bad company. Luckily the situation had been discovered just in time, the villains had been introduced to an Itachi-brand of mercy, and Sasuke had been literally beaten until he could think straight again. At first he had been placed in the police force for them to keep an eye on him, but he ended up enjoying himself far more than anyone had ever expected.
“I am honoured by the request, however, I’m quite certain that you can find someone much better qualified than I am, Uzumaki-san.” Itachi said as he put the book down completely. He stared wistfully at the sticks that were empty of dango once more for a moment. Would it be the worth the stomach ache to get some more? Would it be worth Mikoto’s ire when dinner – which she insisted they eat together as often as possible – was ruined because he was too full of delicious dango?
He sighed and gave in. Nope. It wasn’t worth it. Mikoto was terrifying. Danzo had nothing on her. The Tailed Demons had nothing on her. Uchiha Madara had nothing on her.
“Kakashi-san, for example.” Itachi continued. “He would love to train with you. He has been moaning about not being able to see you for years. I might also recommend Maito Gai or Rock Lee. Perhaps even Hyuuga Neji, and definitely my brother if you can convince him.” Itachi smirked slightly. “It won’t take much to get Sasuke into a fight. He has been looking for one for a while now. Just goad him a little bit and you’ll have him.
Yeah. He as throwing his little brother to the figurative wolves. It was revenge for Sasuke sacrificing Itachi to Mikoto’s matchmaking mercies last time he went out with Sakura.
He looked up at Naruto. “You will find someone better than me. I am quite unworthy of your high regard, Uzumaki-san.”
Well, that did sound like Sasuke. The kid was taking after Fugaku more than anything, but the work at the police force was perfect for him. There had been a time a couple of years ago when Sasuke had been in really bad company. Luckily the situation had been discovered just in time, the villains had been introduced to an Itachi-brand of mercy, and Sasuke had been literally beaten until he could think straight again. At first he had been placed in the police force for them to keep an eye on him, but he ended up enjoying himself far more than anyone had ever expected.
“I am honoured by the request, however, I’m quite certain that you can find someone much better qualified than I am, Uzumaki-san.” Itachi said as he put the book down completely. He stared wistfully at the sticks that were empty of dango once more for a moment. Would it be the worth the stomach ache to get some more? Would it be worth Mikoto’s ire when dinner – which she insisted they eat together as often as possible – was ruined because he was too full of delicious dango?
He sighed and gave in. Nope. It wasn’t worth it. Mikoto was terrifying. Danzo had nothing on her. The Tailed Demons had nothing on her. Uchiha Madara had nothing on her.
“Kakashi-san, for example.” Itachi continued. “He would love to train with you. He has been moaning about not being able to see you for years. I might also recommend Maito Gai or Rock Lee. Perhaps even Hyuuga Neji, and definitely my brother if you can convince him.” Itachi smirked slightly. “It won’t take much to get Sasuke into a fight. He has been looking for one for a while now. Just goad him a little bit and you’ll have him.
Yeah. He as throwing his little brother to the figurative wolves. It was revenge for Sasuke sacrificing Itachi to Mikoto’s matchmaking mercies last time he went out with Sakura.
He looked up at Naruto. “You will find someone better than me. I am quite unworthy of your high regard, Uzumaki-san.”
HufflepuffOwl
☆ Expecto Patronum ☆
.
Naruto Uzumaki
"You will find someone better than me. I am quite unworthy of your high regard, Uzumaki-san."
Naruto arched an eyebrow. "An ANBU agent unworthy?" he parroted. The redhead tilted his head, studying the long-haired ravenette. "I don't know much about your clan, but I find it hard to believe an Uchiha is unworthy," he pointed out. For a moment, Naruto recalled his mother's personal experiences with her best friend's prideful clan. Without another word, he slipped off the branch, landing in a crouch. The Uzumaki heir rose into a standing position, adjusting his grip on his bag of dango sticks. He brandished a stick, munching on a piece. "Being an ANBU isn't a simple profession, Itachi-san. I know the requirements and brutal training regimes agents endure," he announced. Perks sparring with his mother's elite. In the past, the redhead expressed interest joining his mother's elite. "I'm sure the exact training regimes vary from village to village, but the brutality of the conditioning is the same," he added. The ANBU were the best of the best for a reason. Once he swallowed, Naruto popped another sweetened dumpling inside his mouth.
"While I appreciate your recommendations, I still want to spar with you," the Uzumaki heir informed. Naruto flashed the elder Uchiha his signature grin. His cerulean eyes gleamed with determination. "I'm staying in Konohagakure for a year. I have all the time in the world to spar with everyone else, including your brother," he pointed out. Naruto had a feeling he would enjoy fighting the blasé Uchiha. He pointed his dango stick at the long-haired shinobi. "If you want to enjoy your day off, I won't stop you. We can spar sometime later. However, I don't believe your deflection, Itachi-san. I have a feeling you're very worthy, -ttebayo," he declared. The redhead consumed the last dumpling on his stick.
From the corner of his eye, Naruto spotted a small target attached on a nearby tree. He twirled the dango stick, flicked his wrist, and aimed at the target. The stick soared across the air, hitting the bullseye. "It's quite peaceful here. I can see why you like it," he commented. The redhead intended exploring the various training grounds scattered throughout Konoha, including Training Ground 44. However, Training Ground Two was exceptionally peaceful, a perfect spot for relaxation.
Naruto arched an eyebrow. "An ANBU agent unworthy?" he parroted. The redhead tilted his head, studying the long-haired ravenette. "I don't know much about your clan, but I find it hard to believe an Uchiha is unworthy," he pointed out. For a moment, Naruto recalled his mother's personal experiences with her best friend's prideful clan. Without another word, he slipped off the branch, landing in a crouch. The Uzumaki heir rose into a standing position, adjusting his grip on his bag of dango sticks. He brandished a stick, munching on a piece. "Being an ANBU isn't a simple profession, Itachi-san. I know the requirements and brutal training regimes agents endure," he announced. Perks sparring with his mother's elite. In the past, the redhead expressed interest joining his mother's elite. "I'm sure the exact training regimes vary from village to village, but the brutality of the conditioning is the same," he added. The ANBU were the best of the best for a reason. Once he swallowed, Naruto popped another sweetened dumpling inside his mouth.
"While I appreciate your recommendations, I still want to spar with you," the Uzumaki heir informed. Naruto flashed the elder Uchiha his signature grin. His cerulean eyes gleamed with determination. "I'm staying in Konohagakure for a year. I have all the time in the world to spar with everyone else, including your brother," he pointed out. Naruto had a feeling he would enjoy fighting the blasé Uchiha. He pointed his dango stick at the long-haired shinobi. "If you want to enjoy your day off, I won't stop you. We can spar sometime later. However, I don't believe your deflection, Itachi-san. I have a feeling you're very worthy, -ttebayo," he declared. The redhead consumed the last dumpling on his stick.
From the corner of his eye, Naruto spotted a small target attached on a nearby tree. He twirled the dango stick, flicked his wrist, and aimed at the target. The stick soared across the air, hitting the bullseye. "It's quite peaceful here. I can see why you like it," he commented. The redhead intended exploring the various training grounds scattered throughout Konoha, including Training Ground 44. However, Training Ground Two was exceptionally peaceful, a perfect spot for relaxation.
redletalis
The Plot Bunnies are attacking!
He watched the redhead drop next to him, not reacting to the sudden drop. Nor did he twitch at Naruto knowing that he was ANBU. That was old news in Konoha after all, and all because some Uchiha or other just couldn’t keep their mouth shut. One more person knowing his identity wasn’t going to make much of a difference really.
“I was under the impression that you were to be here nary a month? Your father was quite vocal about wishing that you could stay longer. He may have theorised if he could ever seduce you to join Konoha permanently rather than going back to Uzushio. According to him, your mother has had you in her village long enough.” Itachi sighed lightly.
He packed his books and trash into the bag and then put it against the tree, hidden amongst the roots and out of the way. He got to his feet easily. Itachi wasn’t very tall so when he stood next to Naruto like this, the younger man was just about the same height as him. Although Naruto’s spiky hair gave him a bit of an advantage there.
It was an odd thought, because Naruto’s entire aura made him seem larger than life.
Watching the throw, Itachi hummed noncommittally. For the thin dango stick to be able to penetrate the wood of the target it meant that it had to be covered in chakra. It could be used to kill if one was skillful enough. It was a very useful trick that not all ninja bothered to learn, preferring to stick to senbon needles.
“Your father has told us many stories about you. He said that the way you gained your favourite frog-shaped coin purse was by wearing your mother down. He also said that until that point in time, Kushina-san was the most stubborn person that he had ever met.” And that was just one of the many thousands of stories that had been shared by the Hokage. The man was a menace when he went on a spiel about his son.
Itachi looked at Naruto. “In light of that I suppose that it is completely impossible for you to give up on this notion of fighting with me?”
“I was under the impression that you were to be here nary a month? Your father was quite vocal about wishing that you could stay longer. He may have theorised if he could ever seduce you to join Konoha permanently rather than going back to Uzushio. According to him, your mother has had you in her village long enough.” Itachi sighed lightly.
He packed his books and trash into the bag and then put it against the tree, hidden amongst the roots and out of the way. He got to his feet easily. Itachi wasn’t very tall so when he stood next to Naruto like this, the younger man was just about the same height as him. Although Naruto’s spiky hair gave him a bit of an advantage there.
It was an odd thought, because Naruto’s entire aura made him seem larger than life.
Watching the throw, Itachi hummed noncommittally. For the thin dango stick to be able to penetrate the wood of the target it meant that it had to be covered in chakra. It could be used to kill if one was skillful enough. It was a very useful trick that not all ninja bothered to learn, preferring to stick to senbon needles.
“Your father has told us many stories about you. He said that the way you gained your favourite frog-shaped coin purse was by wearing your mother down. He also said that until that point in time, Kushina-san was the most stubborn person that he had ever met.” And that was just one of the many thousands of stories that had been shared by the Hokage. The man was a menace when he went on a spiel about his son.
Itachi looked at Naruto. “In light of that I suppose that it is completely impossible for you to give up on this notion of fighting with me?”
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