Hello everyone. Sorry for the wait. I greatly appreciate your patience and hope my inexperienced story can somehow placate you. Still no flames! Some informative commentary, but very helpful for my writing. Also, is it just me or does uploading a chapter cause punctuation to disappear? I will go back and fix it, but just asking.

Review reply time (if readers want to skip please go to copyright...I kind of figure I need to indicate there is one)

For word amount:
I think I have gotten a decent number since I haven't received any reviews asking for it bigger (quicker yes, bigger no). Thank you everyone for that info. I would have been bothersome to continually get reviews that said "Make it longer". Size will remain constant or be longer, but it won't be smaller from now on.

For review from Inverness:
Thanks for the detail on my style. I actually do agree on it and am trying to rectify it. In a way, I did approach it slowly from the beginning due to Samehada not only being a new character, but a new 'life' to the series. There will be reasons why she had some beginning human knowledge later (I don't think I really needed to put in details about what eyes or various other human details were...fun as it may be). As things move on, I intend to do less explaining just as is done in most anime series usually. Explain most things at the beginning and get to the action through the rest. Still I greatly appreciate the warning. Thank you very much!

For review from unknow69:
Yeah it has. The speed is kind of tricky right now. Not do to a lack of enthusiasm (I totally have plenty of that and ideas), but more of 'location'. I am pretty much hoping gets breaks out the okay on maturity again, gets a better search engine, or gets less...shut down. I didn't intend to keep this story rated T forever and as it progresses I would rather put in the details rather than having something like /couldn't show it here/. Still I intend to make upcoming events more intense and Naruto slightly different (like how other authors do...ah! Naruto. The author's clay). If words comes that this website or another is being a lot more writer friendly please let me know.

For review from xNamikazeKyuubix:
Equivalent *shivers* on my side too. I see what you mean on the detail for that pairing. I most certainly don't intend to let it through solely on convenience. In fact, as part of my story, I intend to put a bit of a challenge on various pairings later. Her pairing will most certainly be one and I will see how my muse and her canon personality will adapt. Thanks for the approval. With Kisame, I don't know if I would really call it mocking. Naruto just has the screentime focused on him so often that we can't help but see his huge mistakes. I have no doubt that some of the other characters have off moments when we don't see them. Samehada's forms will become usual in different facets that I hope come to please. Hope it comes out alright as you read.

For review from LexLuthore:
Thanks! Original is totally what I was going for.

For review from Fallen-Ryu:
Well, as I put I am going for more amusing than dramatic. Seems like I am going right so far. I have an approach for the Kage Bunshin training, but I think somebody already had a 'learned the Bunshin exploding' story out there so I definitely won't/can't go in the direction per say. We'll see as it goes along.

For review from Raja-Ulat:
Yep. Food addicts unite! (Mine would be pizza) By the way, interesting idea with that mask...I will be looking into it. Thanks for the link too.

For review from gster391:
True, that it is. Although, I have been reading that that seems to be Itachi's vice. Never seen it in canon, but I like the idea. Has anybody other than him been addicted to it?

For review from devilsmind:
No problem! Without you reviewing, I wouldn't have somebody to answer after all. Thanks for the support!

For review from DarkusCyril:
Working on it, DuC. Sorry for the wait.

For review from ShadowFoxKage:
Thanks! Itachi's team strength issue is intended and will lend to some future details in factors of the story. Personally, I think it is indicated that their team was the best of the Akatsuki teams, but do they indicate the second best and so on at any point? Something to think about for later.

For review from T-B-R:
At this point, I don't think I could set up a large harem if I tried with out it lessening the story quality. The pairing info is mainly for potential. The secret learning will be something I look forward to also...hehe.

For review from T-Biggz:
You're welcome!

For review from Lightningblade49:
Probably the teeth detail...and the weapon transformation. Seriously, this has potential as a crossover, BUT if something comes up it will mostly likely be a cameo only. No crossovering...completely here.

For review from kurokamiDG:
Thank you! I kinda get the vibe that the various 'tool' characters could become awesome friends (Haku, Kimimaro, Sai, etc). Merging will be addressed, but Naruto needs to deal with something first (enter dramatic music). Oh, the plans I get for the legendary sucker.

For review from Kage no hon'no:
Thank you and it will most certainly be continued! Kenjutsu will have to wait since not only was Naruto a beginner who never really held a sword before, but he's dealing with one that is huge and only gets bigger as far as I can tell. Can't make him too awesome too quickly. Good luck with your story and your writer's block. Ja ne!

For review from Sakura Ichigo Morihiko:
That is more or less how I feel in hindsight of Naruto's training life. Thanks!

For review from Jarjaxle:
Thank you! Girls from every village, eh? Hmm? Iwa is still a problem child, but let's see if I can address that. I know there are so many ways that future confrontation can go that I completely intend to have fun with it. If someone else redoes the pairing later, I look forward to their portrayal.

For review from Ricky12440:
Thank you! Namikaze's Return Redux, eh? I will look into it. I absolutely don't intend to censor all swears and will attempt to do it for proper moments. I really appreciate the advice too. I probably have been using that as a crutch and as such will try to refrain from doing so.

For all reviews: Thanks for the reviews. I got some more direction here so let's see if I can direct it right. I also met the obvious barrier of the pairing issue and hope that although there will be some hate that eventually there is acceptance as well.

Copyright

Rickjames196 let me know that the true maker of Naruto has the last name Kishimoto. Thanks for that man! Totally didn't feel like looking it up. Do I need to but his first name though? If so, I think it rhymed with Kakashi or something. Kakashi Kishimoto...hmm? Nope don't remember the first name. Oh! Just realized I have a Naruto poster and the guy's name is on it. Masashi Kishimoto is the creator and therefore still definitely owns it. I don't, but I am making this fanfiction and new chapter.

Also for writing style:
Information or Human speech (Unbolded and Unitalicized): Like "This"
For Same-chan speech (Unbolded and Italicized): "Like This"
For Human thoughts (Bolded and Unitalicized): "Like This"
For Same-chan thoughts (Bolded and Italicized): "Like This"

Chapter 04 - Training makes Perfect

WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS MAN?

After the first day Samehada took on an attempt to become Naruto's temporary sensei, she had gained an immediate grasp of what she was working with. Her wielder was a unique case for dealing with learning methods. At time, he would be hyperfocused on training to the point of doing so for hours and still asking for more. He would come up with new and unpredictable methods of working with tactics or techniques that others have not considered. The two-handed rasengan being a big indication and although somewhat inefficient with its use of two hands, it enabled a genin to use an A-rank jutsu. On the other hand, her wielder had difficulties in understanding various basic subjects and with remaining attentive to specific topics. Chakra control seemed to be a particular taboo word for him and his chakra sensing capability was near nonexistant.

WHO THE HELL TAUGHT NARUTO THE BASICS?

Difficulties aside, when he was handled with honest concern and positive feedback that seemed to cause him to overcome his shortcomings sooner.

However, the question from the beginning extends to his true and current sensei. When this Jiraiya came back, rather that asking Naruto what he had accomplished the supposed sannin immediately indicated he was tired and that they should rest for the night. Not too much a concern at the time, since she could understand the logic. The next day, my wielder and I awoke to a still sleeping Jiraiya so Naruto decided to get his attention through a minor prank when the old man asked for water. One chakra popped balloon later, Jiraiya asked to be shown the technique. Naruto did so only to find his sensei sleeping again. Rude, but still not an extreme concern. Her past wielders have shown that stronger, more experienced shinobis were hardly ever humble so this wasn't anything new. After they ate breakfast and she ate some Naruto chakra, they made their way to their temporary training area where Jiraiya showed Naruto the next step. Ultimately, it was the same exercise but with a rubber ball. It would obviously be more difficult but with the amount of chakra Naruto had to work with, Samehada had no doubt that her wielder would be able to grasp it eventually. She was truly appalled by what happened next. After being shown the trick, Jiraiya began to leave to 'gather information' again. At this point, Samehada had smelled the faint traces of women and that weird drink that smells bad so she highly doubted it. Naruto continued by asking for at least a hint and was chided for demanding attention.

OF COURSE, HE'S DEMANDING ATTENTION! YOU'RE BARELY GIVING HIM ANY!

After the now recognized failure-of-a-teacher left, Samehada took it on herself to get things going properly.

"Now that he's gone, I'll take over Naruto-san. First off, I believe our current plan should be to deal with his antics until we get the rasengan down and then we toss him like a broken sheath! Only some kind of super genius could learn through this method. DO NOT take that as an insult, Naruto-san! What I mean is you learn certain things in different ways. It took this legendary Yondaime three years to create this technique in three steps and you got the first step in two days with a little instruction. Let's go through these last two steps, finish this mission, and then figure out what to do from there," Samehada explained half frustrated and half reassuringly.

*Sigh* "Sure Same-chan. Ero-sennin probably is just being a pain from dealing with his contacts. We don't need him. Let's do this, dattebayo," Naruto exclaimed somberly at first and then excited afterward.

The days continued to pass and Naruto's progress with the Rasengan still seemed uneasy. Samehada didn't know the mechanics to the technique since she had never seen the finished step before and therefore could only offer instruction on the actions of Naruto's chakra which led to the slower progress. She knew he needed to focus and that he needed to use several times more force to destroy this rubber ball than the water balloon. She saw that just as the water balloon beforehand, this ball didn't have any extra characteristics or seals to it as well. In the completing of the second step, she was somberly admitting that most of the work would all depend on Naruto.

HOWEVER, that did not stop her from helping in other ways.

Due to his vast amounts of chakra, Samehada had Naruto create small groups of clones each day to continue determining the abilities of the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu. It probably would have been easier to ask Jiraiya, but she didn't feel like dealing with him. With her having a clone made along with Naruto each time, she felt confident that she could figure out more details for the jutsu while also gaining more control over her human form. Not to mention, that a minor test she gave Naruto yesterday for his "Information Witholding" lesson was to inform Jiraiya of completing the first step of the Rasengan technique without indicating the obvious assistance on her part or her intention of adding to his training. He handled it well, but that could have been also because Jiraiya seemed like he didn't care.

So they continued creating five clones per day to attempt other exercises that Naruto could do such as: building up chakra control to hopefully assist with the Rasengan, stealth exercises to see his capabilities, ninjutsu training to gain a better mastery towards them, chakra sensing to detect enemies, and various other skills. It was Samehada's intention to have Naruto gaining at least a small understanding of subjects he had not trained before and to gain mastery of his consistent abilities. Maybe when he wasn't enduring chakra exhaustion in his hands due to the Rasengan she could up the clone amount.

The rate which his abilities began to flourish was astounding. While the main focus was the Rasengan and they had been out here for a week, he was grasping the basics like an attentive academy student. He would need to have more experience with actual people for information witholding, but he understood the importance and his creativity could create acceptable scenarios. His stealth was truly amazing due to the fact of his fashion choice. Looks like the pranks he took pride in didn't seem to be exaggerated. Combine his stealth with some more experience and the Kirigakure no Jutsu (Hidden Mist Jutsu) and Naruto could easily be a Silent Killing specialist. Sword mastery was still a long time coming but his rate of progress was constant with the single clone that was being used to do so. Have a hundred clones perform it later and mastery could easily be realized in a few years. Chakra sensing was a bit of a hurdle for Naruto to gain the understanding of what he needed to feel. Once he reached an initial understanding of the process, massive chakra sources were easy to notice. He was informed about how skilled shinobi can restrain their chakra signature and killing intent so this was only a start for his abilities. At his current level, he could still be ambushed since he could only detect if a shinobi was going all out or a bijuu was attacking. Not much help for a profession where most opponents are a lot more subtle. The final technique that was being focused on was chakra control through the weapon holding exercise. With Naruto's chakra control...well...

"Naruto-san, your chakra is still focusing too much on moving through all of me. You need to focus on only the point of me that makes contact with you."

"But you keep moving Same-sensei, its hard having my chakra moving along with you from behind me."

"Why don't you try the exercise from the hip like samurai do it?"

"I don't like the idea of you being accidently dragged across the ground."

"...I see. Thank you, Naruto-san. Still, I have been reaching your chakra to increase its control and the sooner we can handle you holding me in place. The sooner we can get to walking, then running, and finally performing simultaneous chakra exercises. Not to mention we will need to see you attempt this exercise without my assistance with your control eventually."

Naruto contemplated the idea of holding Samehada, walking on water, and holding a leaf to his forehead...all with chakra.

"Naruto-san! Focus! You need to keep your mind on the exercise. Once it becomes natural, then you can get sidetracked."

"Sorry Same-sensei."

Days later, Naruto would make some progress on the second step of the Rasengan after having focused more due to Samehada's instruction and a couple of hints Jiraiya made about the direction of the rotation and placing a simple symbol on his hand to increase focus. With his increased focus and determination, Samehada felt as the force of Naruto's chakra moved through the ball and put too much pressure on the midsection till a hole was finally created that deflated it. Although it wasn't finished, it was an achievement that she was ready to congratulate him for until Jiraiya showed up and somewhat did so.

Later on when Naruto was to begin the training again, he attempted to once again ask Jiraiya for some advice along with a simple request to stay and the perverted sensei was just as harsh as usual while even requesting payment. Samehada was enraged and once Naruto had finished yelling at Jiraiya and they were alone, she decided to try this 'hug' that Naruto had shown her previously. She was concerned for a moment since it seemed to cause him to stop smiling, but then he thanked her while holding her as well.

Hours passed and Jiraiya came back earlier than usual. Wishful thinking had Samehada imagining the pervert at least apologizing for the obvious lack of concern and teacher-student consideration. Reality had him ordering Naruto to go into town to pick up some things for him. She went with Naruto and left the b %$*!# to rot for all she cared.

In town, it seemed that there was less commotion since the festival had ended. Naruto thoughtfully stopped by Tsukimiya Taiyaki for Samehada and then went for the things Jiraiya requested. Samehada was obviously thankful, but wished that Naruto's circumstances with his current sensei were not so difficult.

What was it with more experienced shinobi and kunoichi being b%$&*!#s and b#&*%es?

Did all genin have to deal with this?

When they got to his home, she would make certain that their training wasn't interrupted by his antics.

As they were exiting one of the shops, Naruto seemed to be completely focused on a father and son who seemed to be discussing and sharing a treat of some kind.

"Do you want one, Naruto-san? We can split one if you like."

"Sure, Same-chan," was Naruto's neutral response.

They proceeded to get the treat that Naruto identified as a popsicle. After breaking it in half and getting their portions, they continued walking off. While taking in the flavor of this food(?), Samehada felt a tug on her free hand and saw that Naruto was holding it.

"Is...is it alright if I hold your hand for a while, Same-chan," he questioned.

Although new to human gestures, she could easily see the desire for companionship and gave Naruto a kind nod. She also couldn't help but take notice of the sensations his hand gave her. The first time they held hands, she was so focused on receiving chakra that she didn't notice how warm they felt. At first she thought the warmth came from his chakra only, but she now knew that Naruto was a warm person in general. She couldn't help but wish to continue reveling in this warmth.

"Same-chan, did you ever feel like you had enemies for no reason whatsoever," Naruto somberly questioned and felt that he might be making a mistake, but he wanted to feel like he had someone around he felt he could trust. Same-chan had been the picture of concern and friendship (maybe even family) to him and he didn't want to feel like he was keeping things from her. She even knew about the Kyuubi already though he wasn't sure to what extent and still didn't seem to hate him.

"What do you mean, Naruto...kun," questioned Samehada and displaying complete concern.

"I told you about my friends before but back in Konoha, I also have some problems that are caused from having fuzzy inside me. Since I was young..."

Naruto explained his problems in Konoha.

Why his basics were horrible...

What living conditions she might have to deal with if she goes with him...

His problems with civilians...

His team...

His teachers, and the village in general...

Why he willingly deals with the abuse...

Everything...

Some dark part of him was momentarily thinking of the fact that should Same-chan go back to the shark guy that the information he gave could be used to sneak in and cost Konoha...and he didn't care. What was the point of caring when practically everyone from there didn't care about anything he was or did? What was the point when the few who did care could probably be easily convinced to turn their back on him with but a few words about his 'tenant'? Maybe Sasuke's brother and the shark guy meeting him in the room JIRAIYA got was all a setup to get rid of him...

He was brought out of his dark thoughts by the sudden embrace of someone.

Samehada knew that she shouldn't blame herself for his problems. Nobody could control what people thought or did. She witnessed the inhumanity of humans from the holds of her wielders and knew that nobody needed a reason to cause someone else pain more often than not. However, to hear of someone so warm being hurt and isolated by not only his enemies but even his allies left her feeling hollow. It was made worse when she remembered how her previous wielder threatened to cut off one of Naruto's legs with her...and how at that time she probably wouldn't have cared.

Naruto was shocked to feel something that made sense with Samehada's human form, but that nobody had taught her yet...tears. She had a few casading down her face that soon reached his cheek and neck from the hold she had him in.

"I will protect you. I SWEAR I will protect you till the day I break!"

Naruto felt incredible relief and overwhelming emotion from those pain-spoken words. It is true that he felt acceptance from people like Iruka, the Ichirakus, and the Sandaime Hokage, but it wasn't the same. After any of them would spend time with him, they would go back to their lives. Iruka would have to focus on other people to further his career and couldn't afford to constantly deal with him. The Ichirakus had a business to run that took up most of their day and needed to further their livelihood. The Sandaime was the village leader and couldn't let his needs be more important that any other citizen's needs.

Samehada had no debts to him. After she figured out how to use her new form, she could end up taking off one day to make a greater legend of herself than she already was. She wasn't a Konoha shinobi, citizen, or teammate. She may have been his partner and teacher, but she could leave him high and dry just as much as Kakashi has one day. She could disappear where she wouldn't have to deal with him again, and there was nothing he could really do to convince her to stay. It probably would be better for her if she left.

But she wasn't going to. She said that she would stay with him always. She said it with such emotion that he truly believed it.

In response, he wrapped his arms around her back as she sobbed a little more while he let a few tears out himself.

"When we get back to my village, I am buying you sooo many bowls of ramen," he joked which led to a few giggles from Samehada.

When they finally returned, Naruto provided the supplies that Jiraiya requested to him. He also decided to see about suggesting for him to stick around. As before he stated that he had more important things to do, but he was surprised by the followup response.

"Oh well, whatever. Back to the Rasengan!"

Jiraiya thought that it was good to know that Naruto was not going to be constantly bugging him, but he didn't expect to be brushed aside like some big-talking cannon fodder shinobi. He would look into it later, but for now back to his research!

Another week passed by and Naruto's training still continued to progress. It varied now due to the lack of scrolls to learn from and Samehada's limited knowledge of human terminology, but better than nothing. After dealing with several rubber balls still being popped the small way, Naruto suggested dismissing his shadow clones so all of his entire focus would be on the rubber ball that day. Samehada accepted this and sat back as Naruto seemed to be putting his complete focus in the jutsu. His eyes closed, his mind focused, and his body stiff with determination, he brought another rubber ball roughly to his hands and began rotation of his chakra again. Seeing his newest attempt, Samehada even joined in with cheering him on. Although it could have been considered distracting, hearing someone agreeing with him...saying that he could do it...that he could accomplish his goal, Naruto put as much chakra as he could to the point of the burns in his hands feeling like they were gonna burst into flames. Having the his focused chakra in his hands rotating the rubber ball finally lead to what Naruto wanted, it blew up like a mini-tornado. Getting launched off his feet was not something he was expecting, but Samehada held her ground nicely so he was alright with it. Something as little as that wasn't going to wreck his day.

For once, Jiraiya was there at a decent time with the fact he helped in stopping Naruto with his foot but almost lost his footing since he was holding some popsicles.

"Man gaki! The day I have something in my hands is the day you decide to send yourself flying at me. Well, whatever. This is for you anyway," half-heartily scolded Jiraiya.

He then proceeded to break a popsicle in half and offered it to Naruto as congratulations for his achievement. Naruto proceeded to share some of his popsicle with Samehada.

"You going for the indirect kiss or something there, gaki," pervertedly suggested Jiraiya.

Although high on his victory, Naruto still reacted as always: embarrassed, angered, and with confused denial. Samehada lightly blushed, but didn't bother responding so she remained silent. After all, she didn't really know what a kiss was.

"Oi gaki, what are you thinking making me work so much!? I was expecting that step to take longer...like a year or two and here you get it in a little less than a month," Jiraiya said then sighed.

"What do you expect, Ero-sennin? You are dealing with Konoha's future Godaime here! Might as well hand me the hat now," Naruto replied half playfully half arrogantly.

"Haha, gaki. Let's see you stay on that high horse after this step," Jiraiya challenged.

The third step as Naruto and by proxy Samehada was shown was to take a balloon filled with air and maintain the Rasengan within the balloon at full power without popping it. Needless to say Naruto didn't control it and it popped, however Jiraiya was surprised that it took a while to do so. He knew Naruto's chakra control was much worse off than most shinobi, but he wasn't expecting it to look like he could stabilize the Rasengan at half power. It was broken at almost a quarter away from full power. With this progress, he may need to see about finding Tsunade sooner or he would be dealing with Naruto bugging him for another jutsu and not to mention his bragging.

"Alright! Time to see about understanding this step now," spoke up Samehada after Jiraiya left.

"Hmm...," Naruto mumbled as she said so, drawing Samehada's attention.

"Is something wrong, Naruto-kun," she questioned.

"I think I kinda understand this...," Naruto answered uncertainly.

Samehada was interested since once again Jiraiya had not really given them many details and pressed for him to continue.

"It's like Ero-sennin totally superpowers the Rasengan like the second step while still rotating it like the first step, but to make it only last till it reaches something or someone to mess up so you don't get sent flying or something. Like the chakra control is important, but only for the short time from when I make it to when I beat down some chump with it since the chakra itself does the work from there. How did he do all that with one hand!?"

Although not as technical as a veteran shinobi would have explained or as complex due to it being narrowed down to three steps, Samehada was glad that Naruto was gaining some understanding to the way jutsus worked. Looks like those basics were taking hold.

"That would more or less be the process, Naruto-kun. This step should more or less make the Rasengan look like the one Jiraiya-teme unleashed on...whoever that shinobi was the first time he used it. There is more than likely aspects of chakra usage and chakra control to it so while it is difficult, it may actually go by faster due to your training in chakra control," explained Samehada.

Naruto was overjoyed with the explanation and the fact he somewhat contributed to it. He felt smarter! Yeah, he knew he was no Shikamaru or Sakura...or Shino...or Sasuke...or...

-Alright Already! He knew he was not super nerdy! Still, he was getting better.

Around different parts of the Elemental Countries, several stereotypically 'nerdy' shinobi and kunoichi felt a compulsion to look cool for a minute.

So it went, Naruto continued his Kage Bunshin training with Same-sensei where the clone for learning stealth was now also performing chakra control exercises instead. More attention to stealth would be taught when other shinobi could test him and building up more chakra control could assist with his completion of the weapon hold technique and Rasengan.

By this point, other facets of Naruto's training had shown progress.

Naruto's Information Withholding was at a level where he didn't blurt things out without thinking, but when he got sidetracked or bribed with ramen...yeah. Not to mention torture done to him seemed like it would make it harder to gain information due to his bonds to his precious people, but if those same people were in danger it could lead to an opposite effect. He seemed to be getting increasingly confident which worried her at first, but was deemed unnecessary when he himself responded that he wouldn't believe that his current level would have gotten him out of the various insane battles he had been in without help or luck. His stealth was more or less at the same level since it couldn't really be trained further in their location, but with her suggestion of Zabuza's Kirigakure no Jutsu he was thinking of ways to convince Kakashi-sensei to teach him when he got back home. Samehada would have gladly taught Naruto some ninjutsu to add to his abilities, but unfortunately she didn't take in all the details of the hand signs and most suiton jutsu seem to have a lot of them. Naruto provided some hope in this direction of training when remembering Sasuke's story of Haku and his capability of using one-handed seals. Neither of them had any idea how one-handed seals worked, but Naruto figured he could see if there was someway to skip straight to seal-less jutsu. Both decided to try this on his most basic jutsu: the Henge no Jutsu (Transformation Jutsu). Samehada would give some instruction on sending his chakra through his system in a similar way to using the hand signs and he would try to imitate it. They were no where near completion, but Naruto was activiting it at least. His attempts were somewhat like his academy tries or Konohamaru's mistakes when learning the Oroike no Jutsu (Sexy Jutsu). The next clone's training in chakra sensing was improving slightly, but still not at specific improvements. The next clone's training in sword mastery had Naruto handling Samehada's sword form more like an experienced rookie rather than some civilian who just decided to swing a sword they could barely lift. The final clone's chakra control had developed to the point where the weapon holding chakra exercise could be done without Samehada's assistance...but while barely walking. These two clones were going through the process of now running while performing the weapon holding exercise. Most of these exercises were more to work on Naruto's focus and mind, so they both thought some laps would be a good change of pace. Samehada left it unsaid that the additional movement and wind would make the exercise harder since she felt Naruto thrived on difficulty.

Another two weeks passed, but after many failed tries and popped balloons Naruto finally attained his newest achievement.

In his hands, rotating inside a balloon, was a completed and stable Rasengan!

"YATTA! Look at that Same-sensei! We did it!" Naruto shouted excitedly while his nearby clones congratulated as well.

Samehada didn't want to burst his bubble, but felt a need to correct him.

"Not quite, Naruto-kun. Like you said 'WE did it'. I am currently assisting you with your chakra control. The main situation for completing this technique is for YOU to do it. Still, you have the process so that simply leaves completing it without my assistance," she corrected while her clones nodded.

Naruto pouted slightly at the instruction, but agreed as well. After being provided a moment to prepare himself (and the nearby clones took cover), Samehada gently and slowly removed her influence on Naruto's chakra control.

While each moment barely removed slight portions of his sensei's connection from him, Naruto felt like pathways in his body were being closed off to support the control. By the time she had completely disconnected from him, Naruto felt like he would be lucky to move his toes without being distracted enough to keep from blowing up the completed Rasengan.

"Yeah *Grunt* More Control *Gasp* Work," Naruto struggled to say while maintaining extreme focus on the jutsu.

Samehada saw Naruto's difficult and drained some chakra from the balloon to ease his burden since underpowering a technique was never Naruto's strong point. They mutually agreed to focus on chakra control for the next few days with all the clones to complete the technique and see if Naruto could convince Jiraiya to expand his studies in his near-forgotten skill: sealing. No way were they dealing with these antics with another jutsu without a break.

Thoughts of future training and Naruto's break were brought to a halt with the arrival of Jiraiya to the area. Naruto was sorely tempted to gloat in Jiraiya's face about completing the Rasengan, but thought against it since he couldn't do it completely by himself yet and showing him would undo the info withholding that Same-sensei had him practice.

"Hey gaki! Get yourself cleaned up and ready to go! I got a decent lead on our busty target and if we move now, we could get to her earlier than I had planned," shouted Jiraiya.

"Yeah, yeah. Give me a minute, Ero-sennin," Naruto replied nonchatantly.

"Don't call me that! Any progress on the Rasengan?"

"You know it! In fact, you have any scrolls on sealing so I have something to work on once I finish it?"

"...you're not gonna try another explosive note, are you?"

"THAT WAS JUST ONE TIME AND I WAS AMBUSHED BY S-RANK PROS! ONE WHO CAN PROBABLY KILL PEOPLE JUST BY LOOKING AT THEM!"

"Right. Okay, but let me know whenever you are working on them so you don't accidently mess with the space-time continuum or reality or something. You know what? I'm just sticking you with storage seals. You don't know how to make those and they are beginner stuff too. You accidently create a black hole or something and I am considering you a fuuinjutsu disaster!"

"Would you relax? It's not like we are going to have to deal with any other S-rank creeps on the way to find this lady...She's not S-rank herself, is she?"

"Well, she isn't in Konoha's Bingo Book since she isn't a missing nin. But she is S-ranked in...other aspects. Hehe..."

*Groan* "Let's just go!"

As Naruto prepared to get ready, he smirked at the completion of a minor mission Same-chan suggested to his chakra sensing clone previously.

/Flashback no Jutsu/

"Can you sense him, Naruto-kun," questioned Samehada. She figured that since some chakra is easier to sense when dealt with consistently that having Naruto try to sense Jiraiya might assist his understanding in chakra sensing. She did notice that Jiraiya's ability to conceal his chakra did weaken somewhat after a few hours at the place where she felt violated that one time.

Naruto continued to attempt calming his senses, but he was still uncertain about it. When he felt anything, he wasn't sure if it was actually him sensing something or if it was something he physically felt like that one time he felt a need to sneeze.

"Still not able to feel something more certain Same-sensei. Are you actually sure he is spending hours there though," Naruto questioned somewhat exasperated by Jiraiya's habits.

"Hai. He seems to actually be speaking with more people there than he was before. Maybe he actually is trying to do his job. He's still a b $%#~& though. Probably just doesn't want to see you accomplish this jutsu much sooner than he did," Samehada spoke insightfully with slight bitterness.

Then, she froze and planned something for Naruto as he smiled at the thought of gloating to the sannin.

"Hey Naruto-kun! You know how we were thinking of continuing your training, but ran out of materials to work on. Well, if technically it will somewhat distract but not completely take your attention away, maybe we can get Jiraiya-teme to give some other training materials. He at least must have more scrolls so he can send messages or use seals himself," Samehada exclaimed.

"Oh yeah! I've been working on all this stuff that I forgot about seals. Still haven't made an explosive tag yet. We have to do that, dattebayo," Naruto agreed excitedly.

They both took a quick breather to plan a situation to convince Jiraiya without indicating the near completion of the Rasengan since that could annoy him enough to keep him from training them. However, Samehada was still hoping to not have to deal with his lousy teaching skills which is why she was hoping he would keep leaving so she could help Naruto. So the plan was to figure out a way to make it sound like Naruto was getting better, hadn't completed the Rasengan, and do what Naruto does best...get under his skin.

/Flashback no Jutsu Kai/

"Mission completed, dattebayo," Naruto thought to himself.

"Alright Naruto, as soon as you got your things, our next destination is Tanzaku Gai," Jiraiya declared.

"Whoa! Fuzzy Brows-sensei has a place named after him," Naruto spoke in wonder.

"*Sigh* Gaki, look! Storage seal training scroll! You should check it out," Jiraiya answered sarcastically.

Naruto took the scroll as expected and quieted down. However, Jiraiya didn't notice Naruto's mischievious smile or Samehada's congratulatory pat on the back as he began moving down the road.

Omake - An Avenger's Reprieve

Waking to a new day, some people usually see it as a time for peace and new possibilities. Shinobi and Kunoichi do as well and don't often receive it in part to their professions. However, times when they receive days like this are cherished as treasure.

Sasuke Uchiha hasn't woken up to a morning like that for a long time. His past that consisted of an eternal pain and anger towards his older brother Itachi, was continually consuming his mind and tormenting him with his existence.

Yet, he slept well and woke up at peace today. A temporary peace, of course, but in a way that he also would cherish.

His time on Team 7 has been annoying...often, his teacher was always late, and his teammates were constantly difficult to deal with. However, his trip back with Maito Gai HAD BEEN HELL! The sensei of 'Eternal Rivals' decided that he would make several challenges as a method to see how well Kakashi was teaching him. When he lost at the first ten exhausting rounds, Gai decided to help 'stoke his flames of youth' *shiver*. He couldn't even run or say no since if he came without a sensei, his running off alone could have him punished for insubordination.

However, after everything...he was glad he was back in Konoha. He missed a chance to fight his clan's murderer, but he didn't feel dragged down for once (or yet at least). He didn't feel angry or depressed either. Naruto was safe and still annoying as always. Apparently, he had gotten lucky and actually caused some damage to Itachi if the robes were proof enough. If he could get a lucky shot, no doubt the rookie of the year was on his way to taking him down. He had been feeling angry and cheated for a while since Naruto had been able to defeat Garra while he stood by. Now he took into consideration that Naruto's fighting relied a lot on his obvious determination/stamina that made fights last longer and his unpredictability that could turn battles around more often than not. If the dobe could get the drop on Itachi with such tactics, then no doubt he could up with something as well.

"Hn, still need to take him down a notch when he gets back," Sasuke though with a smirk that could be confused for a smile.

With Naruto...

"Ah! Ah! Chooo! Hey Same-sensei, I think I felt something that time," Naruto shouted excitedly.

"No, Naruto. Sensing chakra shouldn't make you feel like sneezing, not to mention the main point is understanding what you sensed. So do you know what you sensed," Samehada informed Naruto with a humorous undertone.

"...Damn," Naruto replied.

Author Notes

Chapter complete. Hello everyone. Really sorry about the wait. No near death situation or anything, but reality hit me hard in other ways. Nothing too serious though. Still I will need to make it up and I do have something planned before the year ends. Hopefully it will brighten someone's holiday.

What's this? Naruto and Samehada are closer. Samehada and Jiraiya are...not. Naruto and Jiraiya are...okay. Naruto somewhat already knows the Rasengan! They are possibly getting to Tsunade EARLY! Yep, one of my beginning story changes...aside from the Samehada being human thing. How will this change their meeting? Will it change their meeting? Next chapter, beginning of the Tsunade meeting (for sure).

As is shown, Naruto is not THAT much better than canon but he is certainly being less of a blabbermouth at times. What will his new skills lead to? When will Jiraiya actually stay for his training to notice? Not now that's for sure.

As always reviews are greatly appreciated as are critisms. Flames not so much, but lack of flames very appreciated.

Till next chapter!

12/1/2012 (Yeah. Seriously dropped the ball on that one (still I find it somewhat comforting that I can say that it hasn't been years like certain other stories. Hopefully won't become a habit which is also why I am keeping the date detail to monitor myself.)