A/N: Hello and welcome to the end of my Naruto Trilogy. This began with The Jutsu of Love followed by Bloodline. Prophecy's Child will hopefully wrap up all the ups and downs I've put Naruto and Hinata through. Please join me in the final adventures of our favorite blond ninja and his friends. Enjoy!

Truth

LEAVE NOW CHILD. THEY NEED TO CONSERVE CHAKRA AND YOUR OWN BODY NEEDS TO REST. GO! Kyuubi commanded.

Naruto just held on tighter to Minato. "I don't want to go. Pa..." Minato stroked his son's back even as he too held onto Naruto like he'd never let go.

"My son, come now Nine-Tails is right. I love you boy." Minato pulled back then cupped Naruto's face. They stood eye to eye and he smiled. "You've grown into a fine man. Naruto, what is it?" He asked as more tears slid down his son's face.

Naruto just shook his head staring at Minato. "We look so much alike! I feel – connected. Hinata always makes me feel whole and at home but seeing my face in yours…I finally feel like I belong." He laughed and shrugged. "I got a real Pa." Naruto felt a twinge of guilt at not calling him Dad but it was too awkward since he'd called Iruka that and Father was out since that's what he'd called Lord Hiashi. But Pa was good too and Minato looked so proud every time he said it.

"You always had me Naruto; I'm just sorry it took so long for you to know it. Don't go frowning and getting angry, not now." Minato pulled him in one more time then passed Naruto to his mother. "Kiss your Ma." He kept one hand on Naruto just needing to touch him. It was overwhelming the love he had for Naruto. Here was his family and Minato felt blessed.

Naruto reluctantly let go of Minato but then swept his mother up into his arms. "I love that I look like Pa but wish I could have your red hair too!" Naruto laughed wondering what he'd look like with red hair.

Kushina threw back her head and laughed. "Thank you Naruto. But you know it's enough that you look like Minato because I love him so very much and my love for you is just as strong." She ran her hands over his hair and face staring down at him. "And since you're like your father I know you'll take excellent care of Hinata. We're so happy you found someone to love." Kushina couldn't help but compare his adult face to the small face she'd gazed at after his birth. Here was her one and only son. By God she wanted more time with him. "Remember, three days okay? That will give us all time to rest. I'm sorry that we can't spend days and days together but if we take it slowly and for short periods, your father and I can stay much longer than we ever thought we could!" She was crying again too as she held his face, kissed his blue eyes and nose. "My little kit!" Kushina laughed as Kyuubi growled. She was thrilled at Kyuubi's new attitude and that Naruto was the cause of it.

Naruto put her on her feet then hid his face against her neck inhaling her scent, stroking her beautiful red hair. He shivered as Minato joined them and they all held on.

GET OUT! ALL THIS…EMOTION IS GOING TO SICKEN ME! Nine fox tails swirled around creating a devastating wind then pounded them against the ground shaking the family of three.

"Cool it big guy!" Minato called over his shoulder. "But he's right, go on home son. See your wife and brothers, let them know what we know and come up with a plan. I want you safe and able to live a long, happy life." He patted Naruto's back and gently separated them.

Naruto's chest was heaving as he backed slowly away. "Three days – I'll see you again in three days. Promise? You'll be here?" He hated to ask, to sound like a little kid but he didn't want to lose them after finding them.

Kushina rushed forward and grabbed his hand. She wrapped her pinkie around his. "I promise."

"I promise too. Kyuubi?" Minato asked with a smile knowing the great fox was irked by his unwelcome visitors.

IF IT WILL REMOVE ALL OF YOU FROM MY HABITAT – I PROMISE! Now it was the fox's voice that shook the whole mindscape.

Naruto laughed and nodded. "I'm going now or I won't. I love you guys! Thank you Kyuubi!" He turned and ran for the outside gate leavings the three who were there at his birth and were still so very important to his life.

They watched until he was gone before turning to walk back toward the glaring fox. Minato took his wife's hand. "There's so much I want to talk to him about. You, being a shinobi, food! – but there isn't enough time. And so much to apologize for. Though we encouraged him to put the past behind him, I hate everything that was done to him! Sarutobi, Jiraiya, even Kakashi…" Anger made his blue eyes burn.

Kushina's voice went flat. "I know how you feel. If granted a moment of life – I'd hurt them all for what they did to my boy!" She went ahead and yelled for it made her feel better but she calmed as quickly as the anger had arisen. "But we don't have to apologize anymore. We did everything we could to save him and prayed we'd left him in good hands. Unfortunately we were wrong. It will be up to Naruto on how he decides to deal with them all. He may even leave Konoha eventually." Kushina wrapped an arm around her husband's waist after he closed the inner gate behind him.

Minato sighed. "Though I have wonderful memories of Konoha, our son does not. If it means he can find a lasting happiness by leaving then he should. Naruto has managed to surround himself with good people who love him. He'll never be alone again thank God." They now stood before the Nine-Tailed Fox. "We owe you a thanks too."

ALL THESE YEARS YOU'VE HIDDEN HERE INSIDE ME! DAMNED PARASITES! BE GONE, LEAVE ME IN PEACE! Kyuubi settled down as if to take a nap turning his face away from them.

"He always was a grumpy sort but it looks like Naruto's softened him up a bit. I like it." Kushina giggled when deep growls escaped the fox's throat.

"Yeah, Naruto worked wonders on him. So how come you couldn't do it?" Minato teased then ran into Kyuubi's fur with his wife chasing after him.

Konan opened the door when she received no answer to her knocks. Quietly she stepped into the office and looked around. The place was empty. There was work on the desk, papers in neat little stacks evidence that the man she was looking for had been there recently. It was as she was turning to leave that she caught a glimpse of his cloak. Konan rounded the desk and over to the door leading to the balcony. She stepped out to join him. "Nagato?"

A young man with orange hair and multiple piercings in his ears, nose and lips glanced back over his shoulder. "Did you need something Konan?" He asked before turning back to look over the rain washed village.

She walked over to his side. "No, I was just checking in. We've almost captured them all. All that will be left is the Eight-Tails. Soon, very soon we will bring peace to this village and the world." Though the young woman's expression did not change from its calm demeanor but her voice was full of hope.

Pain gripped the railing in front of him. "Yes finally there will be peace in the world instead of constant pain." There was a sense of urgency in his words. The wait had been long, the lives lost great and the pain…never-ending.

"Mmm…" Konan agreed. She lifted her face letting the rain splash on it. "And you can finally rest." She wondered how it would feel to live in a world with no strife. Children would no longer lose their parents to war or have to grow up killing just to live. Heaven on earth? Konan smiled for that may be taking things too far but it would be infinitely better than things were now.

They stood silently for long moments before Pain let go of the railing and looked to the east. "Deidara and Tobi have returned.

~mg~

"You were defeated? You…were…defeated?" Konan asked quietly and only with her eyes could you see the amazement that she felt.

"Oh give it a rest! Once we've healed we'll go and destroy that village!" Deidara declared loudly then flopped back onto the bed in pain. He began muttering under his breath about the vengeance he would take on that Sai guy for stealing his ideas.

Tobi was eerily silent as he lay in the bed next to Deidara's. "It would have been finished if the Sanin Jiraiya hadn't shown up. They could have wiped us out but they just took their injured and ran." His thoughts were racing over those last minutes of the battle.

"What about the Seven-Tails? Did she run off again?" Pain asked calmly.

"No she went with them. Actually she was with them the whole damn time using a clone and the transformation jutsu…where's Kisame and Itachi? What's happened with the Nine-Tails? Where's Zetsu?!" Tobi sat up suddenly. The human plant should be there. He had been monitoring both battles…or had he?

"Neither is here nor have we heard from them. Konan." Pain said and the woman went to the door to speak with one of the men outside about watching out for their missing shinobi. "Then it was a trap, all of it but to do what? You were not killed nor did you take the Jinchuriki. It must have something to do with the Nine-Tails." Pain walked away from Tobi to look out the window.

"Hnn, Itachi maybe? The little brother Sasuke, doesn't he want Itachi dead?" Deidara asked seriously. "Maybe they killed him but dammit I wanted to kill him! If Itachi's dead then I have to kill Sasuke!" His hands clenched in anger as the mouths in his palms gritted their teeth.

"A trap for Itachi?" Tobi asked and suddenly it did make sense. And Naruto was the bait. More than likely all of Sasuke's so-called new family had been there backing him up. If Itachi survived then he would most likely be severely wounded. Konoha had dealt them a blow, had tricked them and made them look like fools.

"So what shall we do now?" Konan asked looking from Pain to Tobi.

"Let's see if the others return before we make any plans." Tobi suggested but his mind was already plotting. He would not let this go unpunished.

Koneko padded at Naruto's side. The boy had spoken little the two days they'd been gone but he was better than when they'd left. Talon flew just ahead of them never going too far. They were on the main road leading to the village of Konoha.

"The Village Hidden in the Leaves. No the Village of Lies." Naruto said softly as the open gates came into view. It was morning and there were a few people entering and leaving the village. With each step he felt sick. "Stay with me Koneko?" He asked as he put one arm over her shoulders.

Of course. She replied and a thunderous purr sounded from her as she walked ever closer to him. The child was still hurting and she would stay as long as he needed her.

Kotesu and Izumi were stationed at the guard house. Both stood and moved outside as Naruto and the saber tooth approached. "Welcome back Naruto." Koetsu said but he stepped back when the cat growled at him.

"Do you want us to tell your…the Hokage you've returned?" Izumi asked but he too just put up his hands and backed off when Naruto gave him a cold stare.

I'm back. I just need to make a stop first. Naruto told his family but he knew they were watching over him from Talon's eyes.

We'll meet you. Takeshi said already pulling on a coat.

You don't have to; I'm not going to do anything. Naruto said sort of angrily.

I need to see you Naruto, we all do…please? Hinata asked quietly.

Naruto dropped his head then inhaled deeply. Yes okay, I'm sorry. I love you Hinata.

I know. Hinata said with a touch of humor and love. She took Hanabi's hand in hers and beside their brothers, left the district to meet Naruto.

Activity in the streets all but halted as Naruto and Koneko walked through them. Of course a massive cat with huge canines would make anyone pause but it was the sight of Naruto that had them staring. It wasn't because of his torn, dirty and wrinkled clothing but because they all knew the truth now. Naruto was the son of the Yondaime Hokage Namikaze Minato.

He ignored them all friends and strangers. Naruto just wasn't able to deal with them just yet. He headed towards Hokage Headquarters and many thought he was going to see the Hokage but he walked beyond that building and never once looked up at the woman staring down at him.

Naruto stopped before an ordinary looking building. "I don't think you'll fit inside Koneko. Wait here with Talon. Sasuke and the others will be here soon." He scratched her ears then tapped Talon's beak lightly as he came to a rest on Koneko's back. Taking another deep breath Naruto walked inside.

"Can I help – you?" The man asked haltingly as Naruto walked up to him.

"Yeah I need a birth certificate and a new wedding license." Naruto leaned over the counter.

"Umm, well I don't know if I can – do that. I've already umm looked for your birth certificate and you don't have one. I'd have to get permission from the Hokage - !" He broke off when Naruto slammed his fist on the counter.

"Don't piss me off dammit – just do it!" Naruto yelled not caring that the man was scared and just doing his job.

"B-but they'll f-fire m-me!" The guy said thinking he'd faint as he watched the whisker marks on Naruto's face begin to stand out.

"Just do it. Whatever he wants, do it." Ibiki said from behind Naruto. "I'm glad you came back kid." The Anbu leader walked up and stood beside Naruto.

"But sir…the Hokage has to…" The poor man spoke up again but black eyes stared coldly at him.

"And who do you think sent me here? If Naruto wants or needs anything he's to have it and that came straight from her mouth. Do you want to defy her?" Now Ibiki leaned over the counter.

"Yes! Right away!" The man said tripping as he backed away. He quickly located Naruto's wedding license and got what he needed to make an official birth certificate.

Naruto had calmed down. Ibiki's appearance was helpful but Naruto as of yet still didn't want to talk to anyone other than his family. So he ignored Ibiki and just kept his eyes on the man.

"Wh-what changes would you like made to your license?" The attendant asked nervously.

"Our names need to be…changed slightly from just Uzumaki to Namikaze Uzumaki Naruto and Hinata." His heart beat faster just saying it. His blue eyes watched anxiously as the corrections were made. "I'll want a copy of that too." Naruto said softly.

"Yes sir." The attendant was calmer now as he tried to imagine what Naruto was feeling. In moment he'd made another copy of the license for Naruto stamped with the official seals of Konoha and the nation. "Now for your birth certificate: Namikaze Uzumaki Naruto born?"

"October tenth." Naruto told him.

"Oh…Happy Belated Birthday." The attendant said quietly. Exactly two days ago Naruto had turned seventeen.

"…Damn." Ibiki muttered for it had been the same night that he'd learned the truth finally.

"Yeah." Naruto nodded and gripped the counter. "My father was Namikaze Minato and my mother was Uzumaki Kushina." He stood up proudly then. He knew his parents' names and though Naruto had forged his own path, he now knew from whom his life had started. Naruto's blue eyes watched as the attendant filled out the rest of the document and made the copy. He took his copies with shaking hands. "Thanks."

The attendant smiled at him. "You're very welcome." He was about to ask about payment when he got a glare from Ibiki.

Naruto was staring at the documents in his hands. He'd had verbal confirmation of who he was and now official documentation. He was real, his parents had been real and now there was proof. Naruto started for the door when Ibiki touched his arm. He jerked away.

"When you're ready, I have stories to tell you about your father Naruto and I hope someday you won't hate me." Ibiki had backed off quickly when Naruto had pulled away from him.

"Naruto?" Hinata questioned as she stood in the doorway.

His head snapped around. "…Hinata." Naruto walked forward quickly. Still clutching his papers he gathered her into a tight hug.

Hinata took her trembling husband into her arms. He was a mess and smelly but he was back. She'd been missing a part of her soul with him gone and now she felt whole again. "I got you, I got you." She said holding him close.

Takeshi looked inside at Ibiki wondering why he and several of his men were there. "We're taking him home." He stated firmly, silently daring Ibiki to try and stop them.

"Go right ahead. We won't stop you." Ibiki leaned back against the wall with his hands in his pockets trying to look nonthreatening.

Naruto squeezed his wife, kissed her neck then backed away holding out the proof of his true identity. "Look sweetheart, now no one can deny who I am." His eyes were a little wild and fierce as he saw strangers staring at them.

"Naruto?" Takeshi said stepping closer to make Naruto look at him. "Let's go home." He held out a hand and when his brother gripped his wrist, he pulled him close for a hug.

"Yeah. Sasuke?" He looked around and found his other brother with Koneko. "She deserves a lot of cat nip for putting up with me!" It was weak but he smiled and gave a half laugh.

"She'll get it. You okay?" Sasuke came up and threw an arm around Naruto's shoulder giving him a half hug.

"Not yet. Let's go – I can't stand all of these people staring at me." He growled and reached back for Hinata, wrapping his arm around her waist. It was then he saw Hanabi and Neji, Seiko and Ayame, Fu and Gaara. "Umm hey." Naruto said feeling somewhat embarrassed and unsure of himself in front of them.

Gaara nodded and stepped forward. "I will escort you home Naruto and take care of these eyes." A screen of sand surrounded the group. Yes it was possible to see in and out but not clearly. "Shall we go?"

Naruto shook his head smiling. "We shall. Kankuro doing alright?" He would stick with small talk for now.

"He's healing well. Temari is keeping a close watch on him." Gaara walked at his side with the others forming a protective barrier around them. "Naruto…I was here when you learned the truth." He went silent for a moment. That night still unnerved him. He'd actually felt Naruto's pain in the air. "Should you need someone else to talk to, I'll be there for you." Naruto stood taller than he so he had to look up to meet those blue eyes. Gaara took a deep breath at the limited trust in Naruto's eyes. It was too early to expect much of Naruto but he let his own eyes speak of his honesty and friendship. "You were my first friend Naruto, for that alone; I'll always be at your side." Gaara reached up to squeeze Naruto's arm.

Naruto nodded quickly. His throat was too full of emotion to speak. He too reached out and gripped Gaara's shoulder to let his friend know he still believed in him. They walked the rest of the way in silence. Naruto kept his wife close and his eyes down.

"We're here." Sasuke said stepping up to the gate to unlock it. The group passed through and the sand dropped to the ground. "Umm hope you don't mind Naruto," He said as his brother noticed some construction going on. One building was being made livable. "We thought there should be a place for friends to stay when they came to visit." He glanced at Neji and Fu though currently she was still being carefully watched by the Anbu. It was only because Gaara had agreed to watch her that she was even allowed to be there.

"Huh? Yeah that's fine." Naruto shook his head. "Listen guys I need to clean up. Give me a little time…" He looked at them all seeing sympathy; some anger but mostly the desire to help him. It did make him feel better.

"How about a late lunch everyone? Three o'clock?" Hinata offered.

"Sure that's fine. Hanabi, Seiko and I can go shopping and you guys can continue fixing up the new place." Ayame agreed. "Well not you Kazekage." She grinned and bowed to him.

"Sometimes it does pay to be leader." Gaara smiled and bowed back to her. "I shall…oversee." He put his hands on his hips arrogantly.

"Yeah right. You want to eat, you'll help out Kazekage." Takeshi told him sternly but was smiling when he said it. Then he turned to Naruto. "You are a bit ripe little brother. We'll see you later." He reached out putting his hand on Naruto's head then down to cup his face. "You look better than we expected you to. Always knew you were strong from the moment I saw you." Takeshi said with a serious face then smiled. "Make sure he bathes twice!" With a delighted chuckled he moved off when Naruto shoved him.

The couple started home but not before Hanabi grabbed Naruto's free hand. "Thank you for coming home Naruto." She whispered up at him tears in her lavender eyes. Hanabi kissed his dirty hand then ran into Ayame's arms. Naruto stared after the girl for a moment tears in his own eyes before Hinata urged him homeward.

~mg~

Naruto shut the door firmly behind them and sighed heavily. Though they'd only had the house for a short while, it had already become a safe haven if not a true home. He bent and removed his muddy boots.

"Go on upstairs and scrub off that dirt. I'll be up in a minute to start your bath. Take Talon with you." Hinata smiled as she heard Talon come in the upstairs window.

"Yeah..." Naruto started to say something but Hinata put a finger on his lips. He kissed that finger then went upstairs. He wasted no time stripping and dropping his clothes in the hamper. "Hey featherhead, let's get you cleaned up first huh?" Gratefully he stepped into the shower and began washing his son's feathers.

Hinata went into the kitchen and lightly placed the scrolls on the table. She would see to it that they were framed and put somewhere prominently in their home. Quickly she put a tray together knowing her husband would need food before the lunch they'd scheduled. With the scrolls in tow she went to join her husband.

She undressed and put on a white robe leaving the scrolls on the bed. Hinata entered to see an outline of Naruto scrubbing his hair. "Should I wait?" She didn't want him to burn his eyes if she turned on the water now.

"I just started." Naruto told her. Already he was feeling more human. The familiar scents of Hinata, being surrounded by their things made the last of those lost feelings fade away.

She hummed as the bath filled and she added a few herbs to the water. "Come here Tal; let me dry your feathers." With a fluffy towel she took him into her arms. "You're such a good boy Talon watching over him. Hanabi and Neji made sure you had some fresh meat since you didn't hunt at all. I've filled your bowls and your bed is ready for you when you want it." Her lavender eyes looked fondly at the golden orbs staring back at her. The bond between them was so perfect that Hinata could only hope that she had something similar with her babies when they came. "Love you." Hinata kissed him then laughed as pecked her gently on the nose.

"Can I rinse now?" Naruto asked as he stood ready for one more scrub down before getting in the bath.

Talon flew up with a lot of chirping then left the room to eat and sleep knowing his parents needed some time alone. "Go ahead." She turned off the water and smiled as he squeaked at the cooler water. Hinata leaned against the tub and watched him.

Naruto slicked back his hair as he stepped out of the shower. "You look pretty." He said simply as he saw her on her knees, long hair pulled up, her cheeks flushed from the steam.

"Thank you." Hinata grinned at him. "Come on while it's hot." She ran her fingers through the steaming water. As always Naruto's body pleased her. Wide shoulders, lean hips, muscled thighs and that which made him man even though it was at rest. Her Naruto was everything she wanted.

Naruto slid carefully into the hot water wincing a little then sighing as the heat soaked into his bones. "I didn't realize how cold I was." He scooted down until only his nose was just above water. He stayed down for several minutes before coming back up all rosy from the hot water.

"It was below freezing Naruto. You have Koneko to thank for keeping you warm. Here, some rice balls and tea." There were several kinds with different meats and vegetables inside. The tea was cool so as to not overheat him while he sat in hot water.

"I've thanked her and will again." Naruto said reaching for the food and after one bite almost gulped it down. He reached quickly for another. "I'm hungry." He said as if surprised and shortly finished off nine of the dozen she'd made for him. "Thanks sweetheart." Naruto sipped the tea and sank back into the water.

"You're welcome." She folded her arms on the tub and rested her chin on them just staring at him. Hinata could tell he'd changed yet again. He'd always been younger and older than the rest of them. He carried the weight of yet another stone about his neck bowing him but at the same time making him stronger.

Naruto studied her as well. She was his home, his resting place, his heart but she too shouldered each pain and stumbled when he did. His wife had been hurt almost as much, maybe more than he by this last episode. "How are you?" He reached out to take one of her hands.

Hinata took his hand and kissed it before placing it against her cheek. "Better. …Hanabi and Neji stayed with me. I don't think either is as…disappointed in Father as I am but they too wonder what else he has lied about." Hinata blinked back tears. "The lies, so many lies – when did they start? When will they stop?! Naruto what if Father only agreed to our marriage because of your father? Prestige means a great deal to the Hyugas. The 'heiress' marrying the son of the greatest Hokage would only increase our clan's prominence." She sat up abruptly but didn't let go of Naruto's hand. "But…that's just a small part of it. They knew…Lady Tsunade, Master Jiraiya, Father, Iruka, Kakashi…God even Shikamaru! They knew and never said a word. Each of them lied to our faces for years… We loved them and yet…Naruto how do we trust any of them again?" She had held these fears close to her heart as she waited for Naruto to come home but now she couldn't hold them in any longer. Hinata began to weep.

"Shh, shh, I'm here." Naruto stood, stepped out of the tub and pulled her into his arms. "I'm sorry I left you alone with all this. I know sweetheart, I know. It eats at me too." He rocked her as she cried out her pain.

The tears were a relief when they came and after a half hour or so she felt better, enough so to chastise Naruto for standing there wet and naked. Together they cleaned the bathroom then got in bed to hold each other.

"How's Itachi?" Naruto asked as he spooned his wife. "I need to apologize to him for taking the knowledge from his mind. I didn't hurt him but I didn't have his permission to go through his memories." There was guilt inside him but Naruto couldn't regret it either for at long last he knew the truth through those actions.

"Much better. He's been asleep this whole time and his eyes are still bandaged but his health has improved greatly. Sasuke wants to bring him home as soon as possible. He feels pressured when he visits Itachi. Tsunade is often at the hospital or Kakashi is there. Though neither tries to speak to him, he doesn't want to see them. It may have been your secret Naruto but we all feel the betrayal." Hinata cuddled back into him loving the warmth of his body.

"Will he be allowed to come home? Officially Itachi's a murderer. There are extenuating circumstances but he did kill a great many of his clan. And what about the village? The way people were staring – they know about me right? Do they know about Itachi too?" Naruto frowned then hid his face in Hinata's hair.

Hinata reached back a hand to stroke his hip and thigh. "Naruto…there were people watching that night and not just ninjas. They all heard. I learned from Tenten that Shikaku gave the facts to the shinobi and that Teuchi along with the counsel talked to the business owners, the influential civilian families and the word spread from there. I think...I think everyone knows about each of you now." This time she turned over so that she could see his face, his reaction to the news.

Naruto looked at her calmly then let out a sigh. "Good. No more damned secrets - well at least about me and it explains all the stares. I dread having to go back out there though." Naruto reached for her leg and drew it over his hip. "I'm okay Hinata really. Walking back through those gates was hard knowing that the people I loved and trusted had all betrayed me and then everyone was staring when I went to get my birth certificate. I kept expecting to see...the Hokage or Iruka so I was a little on edge and nervous - just weirded out you know? But having you in my arms again, you loving me - I'm a lot better sweetheart." He leaned forward kissing her forehead, her nose then her pink lips. "I so love you Hinata." Naruto placed one hand over her collarbone then began tracing his fingers down her chest.

She stared at him all her senses open. "You're really alright. You still feel the pain, the betrayal but something's balancing that pain. Your mind was closed to us when you were away. What happened to affect you so?" Hinata raised herself up on one elbow to see him better.

"Yeah something happened and I'll tell you but not right now. I'll share everything later when everyone's here. Right now I just want you. Let's make love. I need you Hinata!" Naruto cupped a breast and lowered his head to suckle at her nipple.

She gasped in a breath then pulled him closer to her. Curiosity mixed with her desire but she let desire take the lead. She would know soon enough and if whatever had happened had been able to calm her husband's pain then it was enough. "I want you inside me Naruto." Hinata whispered into his hair then moaned as his strong fingers found her wet center.

Naruto pushed her down, cupped her breasts burying his head between them kissing her heart. His rubbed his cheeks against her soft skin savoring the feel of her then with kisses and nibbles he worked his way back to her nipples.

Hinata shed tears as Naruto loved her body. Not tears of sadness but of happiness. Though the world seemed to conspire against and hurt them at every turn, when they were together life couldn't be more perfect. "Naruto…my Naruto…" She stroked her hands over his wide shoulders and through his hair.

Naruto inched down her stomach still kissing and stroking. He paused for a moment at her bellybutton thinking that one day soon his baby would rest there. After learning the truth, he wanted more than anything to be a father, to have the family he and his parents never got to have. Gently he placed a kiss there as if blessing his wife's womb then continued with his seduction.

Hinata's hands gripped his hair; her thighs held his head as Naruto kissed her intimately. She lifted her hips forcing herself into his mouth and moaned at the sensation. He licked her; he sucked and tossed her into a wave of sensation.

Naruto moved quickly wanting to enter her before her orgasm passed. He grunted as her wet flesh surrounded him, drew him in and made him welcome. "Hi-nata…" Naruto drew out then thrust back inside with a groan. "Never leave me!" He focused on her face, her beloved face.

"Ne – ver ever!" Her eyes were focused on his as she made the promise. She stroked up his straining arms, over his shoulders to his face and pulled him to her. Their lips mated as their bodies did before Hinata thrust up so hard that she had Naruto rolling over onto his back.

He laughed as she took control of their love making. "I'll stop...running away too!" Naruto said as he stroked her thighs feeling the strength in them even as he watched the bobbing and shifting of her breasts. "For-ever with you…always and for-ever." Like my parents. He thought as his hands circled her waist pulling her lower so he could kiss the temptations that were her breasts.

Hinata nodded as she placed her hands on either side of his head she raised and lowered her hips urgently. They were close, close… "Ah…ah…Na-ru-to…" She put one hand on his shoulder and shifted her body back a little.

"Now, do it now!" Naruto urged as his hand dropped to between her thighs his fingers finding that special spot. "Hinata!"

Hinata screamed. It was too much and exactly right. Her husband pushed her over the edge and seconds after her orgasm hit she felt him go inside her. She couldn't stop her hips wanting the pleasure to go on and on and on.

His fist struck the bed as he braced his feet and pushed up into his wife. Naruto's neck bowed back his muscles taunt with release. They kept going and longer still for several minutes until Hinata fell exhausted on top of her husband but her inner muscles continued to quake and shiver around Naruto and tingles of pleasure raced up and down her spine. "You were gone too long." She breathed then laughed weakly.

"Mmm, way too long. I'm home now, home with you." Naruto smiled then yawned. He put one hand over Hinata's bottom holding her in place. "Nap time." He kissed her head then relaxed his muscles and drifted off that quickly.

Hinata laughed again and wiggled just a bit getting comfortable. "Looks like I wore him out…and myself." She yawned too and with no more worries she too drifted off to sleep.

It was Takeshi who gently woke them an hour before they were due to come over. Though his little brother looked better than expected they all knew he hadn't rested well out there in the forest. As he touched their sleepy minds he offered to postpone this meeting but Naruto insisted on going through with it. Takeshi informed the girls and they entered Naruto and Hinata's home shortly after to prepare the late meal.

Others also entered the house and they were mostly silent not knowing what to expect. It was basically the same group that had escorted Naruto home with the addition of Sakura. The smell of ramen scented the air comforting them and easing the tension in the room.

Naruto and Hinata came downstairs hand-in-hand. "Hey, thanks for coming everyone." Hinata smiled at them. She left to join Ayame in the kitchen when Sakura approached Naruto for a hug.

Hanabi turned as her sister entered the room and she let out a relieved sigh. "You're okay!" She rushed to hug her tightly. Hinata had cried her eyes out that night then had not shed another tear. She'd spoken little and seemed fine but her shoulders had been bowed like she'd been carrying a heavy weight. But now since Naruto had returned she was much like her old self.

"Yes I am. Sorry to have worried you Chibi." Hinata held her close and kissed her forehead. The girl was almost her height now, not much of a child anymore. "Ayame do you need more help?" She looked over at the young woman.

Ayame was smiling at them. She'd been worried too. If Naruto was hurt or troubled, it affected all of their lives but if he could bounce back from this then he was a stronger man than she ever knew. She shook her head, "No everything's ready."

"Good. We need help setting the table!" She called out to the others then with Ayame's direction they were shortly enjoying a meal. A silent meal to start but Sasuke couldn't stand it.

"Tell me we're leaving this place." Sasuke put his chopsticks down and glared at Naruto.

"We're staying." Naruto said firmly as he reached for more food. There was stunned silence for a moment with everyone looking at him but Naruto just continued to eat. "This is really good, thanks Ayame."

"S-sure." Ayame muttered as she blinked at him. She couldn't believe her ears. "Naruto?"

"What she's asking is why? And how come you look so damn calm about it?!" He scooted his chair back loudly and leaned on the table. "Naruto – what the fuck?!"

"Sasuke! Watch it!" Hinata warned him. "My sister doesn't need to hear you talk that way and he's your brother, Naruto will explain." Her lavender eyes held his until he sighed and retook his seat.

"Sorry Hanabi." Sasuke finally said and his mouth twitched when she stuck out her tongue at him but when he turned back to Naruto all his frustration was shown clearly on his face. "Well Naruto?"

Naruto had continued to eat. He'd expected Sasuke to go off and so had ignored him. Plus it always amused him when Hinata put him in his place. "Is there tea and dessert?" He asked and Hanabi jumped up. "Okay let's get that on the table and I'll tell you why but I think you already know why Sasuke. But thanks for being angry for me." He smiled at Sasuke who just grunted. His brother didn't always show his love on good terms, a lot of the time it was anger.

Sakura and Seiko helped remove the lunch dishes as Fu, Ayame and Hanabi brought out cake and ice cream. There were seventeen candles on it burning brightly.

Naruto blinked as his eyes watered. He stood as the girls put the cake in front of him. "Hinata? Chibi?" He asked as they both hugged his waist.

"We promised to always celebrate your birth Naruto. We missed the actual day but we didn't forget and this time is even more special." Hinata stood on tiptoe to kiss his cheek and gestured at the cake. His name, his full name had been written on the cake.

Naruto let his tears fall. He turned to Hanabi picked her up and gave her a smacking kiss on the mouth then crushed her to his chest. "Thank you." Next he turned to his wife and gave her the sweetest, tender kiss. "Love you!"

"Blow out the candles idiot before there's no cake to eat." Sasuke said gruffly as he reached for Seiko's hand.

"Okay here I go!" He was smiling then with a huge breath he blew out all the candles. That famous Naruto grin was back. "I get the first piece!" And proceeded to cut himself a healthy slice while they sung to him.

After everyone had cake and Naruto had enjoyed a few bites before settling back in his seat and looking at Sasuke. "We gave our word."

Takeshi nodded and sighed. He'd thought as much. "In blood no less to be ninjas of Konoha and to live in Fire Country. We don't have much choice Sasuke." He stirred his spoon in the ice cream.

"Konoha used Itachi then left him out in the cold. They practically forced him to become a criminal! Then when you took on the burden of the Nine-Tailed Fox for this damned village they cursed you, they fucking abused you and on top of it all lied to you for sixteen years!" Sasuke turned quickly to Hanabi, mouthed a sorry then was back to staring at his brother. "And then after years of being on your own people finally wanted you, took you in, seemed to love you but still kept you in the dark. Why would they do that Naruto? They wanted you all to themselves? They wanted to make you dependent on them so if they asked for your life you'd give it because they loved you? They wanted to make sure you'd never leave Konoha and always be their protector. Jinchuriki are weapons after all. Hell I wonder why they were so damned opposed to Danzo. What they've done is no better!" Sasuke was breathing hard as the words rolled out of his mouth. He was angered, disgusted but mostly hurt. If they could do this to Naruto who'd loved them without reservation, who'd protected without thought of himself then what did they think of the rest of them? He'd felt part of a family again and now, what was left?

Naruto got up. "Sasuke, I'm sorry." He tried to hug him but Sasuke jerked away but Takeshi was there and they got him to stand still. "I'm sorry to all of you. You're all feeling the same things I'd felt when I left. I should have stayed so we could have helped each other through this." Naruto had Sasuke by the arm and Takeshi had him by the shoulders.

"But Naruto you don't feel that way anymore do you?" Seiko asked curiously. "What happened to you out there?" She like the rest of them had been silently watching this drama.

Naruto held out a hand for Hinata. He looked from her to his brothers. "I met them – my real parents. I met Namikaze Minato and Uzumaki Kushina, my Ma and Pa." He smiled at them looking proud as he pronounced their names.

Iruka along with Yugao entered Lord Hiashi's home. The atmosphere was somber almost as if there had been a death in the household. Entering the study he was somewhat surprised to find Ibiki there. Once Naruto had entered the village, they'd all been alerted and it had been with great restraint that they hadn't all gone to him. "Is there a problem?"

"No, no problem. I personally spoke with Naruto and I thought you'd like to hear from me on how he is." Ibiki told him quietly. Other than the just arrived couple, the Hokage was there, Master Jiraiya, Kakashi, Anko and of course Lord Hiashi. Yugao looked the best while the others looked sick, tired and worried.

"Did anyone approach him or threaten him in any way?" Tsunade asked as she sat close to the fireplace. Even though she wore layers of clothes, she was cold.

"No my lady. People stopped and stared but no one spoke or made a move towards him. Of course Naruto didn't appear the least bit approachable with that massive cat at his side." Ibiki allowed himself a small smile. The kid had an affinity with animals.

"The Yondaime's son…how did I not know?" Anko asked with bemusement. "He looks just like him and acts just like his mom or did before the suicide attempt. Dammit all! And you knew? All of you?!" Anko gripped Kakashi's arm hard as her gaze took in the whole room.

"How could I not know?! I figured it long before I was told but at the same time I didn't let myself think that 'this is Minato's son.' I held myself back from Naruto being careful not to care too much about him." Kakashi lifted a gloved hand and shoved it through his hair. "Minato was my sensei." He let his head drop to his chin. "I failed them both. I looked up to Minato, admired him so damn much but when it came to his son I did so little for him, so little…but the worse thing is that I kept this damned secret!" Kakashi exploded up off his seat and began pacing.

"It was a decree from the Sandaime – none of you could have disobeyed that!" Yugao said as she rubbed Iruka's back. She'd stayed by his side as much as possible trying to comfort him but nothing had worked.

"I could have." Tsunade whispered. "I could have cast it aside and told him the truth. Everything he's ever learned about himself has happened accidentally. No thought was given to his well being or his ability to handle the information. Just thoughtless, abrupt truth – enough truth to break him." Tears slid from her eyes.

Iruka was shaking his head. "No. No I was there. I told Naruto what he meant to me. I eased his pain as he found out about the fox. My boy is strong. Yes he was bent, bent low but he's too strong to break. If he would just let me explain…I didn't know. Like Naruto I was clueless about his parents until recently! Shouldn't that mean something to Naruto? I love him and he's my son now! I'm sure the Yondaime is happy that Naruto has someone to look after him, let him be a kid and teach him how to be a man." Iruka got up and went to Kakashi. "We did that. Jiraiya, Hiashi – we've helped Naruto grow, loved him! Naruto wouldn't forget that would he?!" Iruka's face and voice showed his desperation.

Hiashi sat behind his desk resting his chin on his clasped hands. "It does but will it be enough? It's not just Naruto but Hinata, Sasuke and Takeshi too. We've lied to them all. My daughter thinks the worst of me. That I only accepted Naruto because he's Minato's son. …Sadly once upon a time that would have meant something to me but I came to love Naruto for who he is, for how he changed my family. I can't stand the thought of losing her good will, that she thinks so lowly of me and Naruto…It took him so long to become comfortable with me. I truly cherish the bond we'd formed." Hiashi covered his face with his hands.

Jiraiya turned away from his contemplation of the dead gardens. "Stop it all of you. It's done. Not the way we wanted it done but even if we'd planned it out, Naruto may still have turned away from us. Despite Sarutobi's decree or any order from you Tsunade we all had opportunities to tell Naruto the truth but we were all too damned scared of his reaction to do so. Nothing we can do about it but move ahead, explain if he'll let us and do what we can to earn his trust again. Tell us Ibiki, how was he when you saw him? What did he do?" Jiraiya went to sit on the floor by Tsunade his back against her legs offering to share his warmth.

"He was anxious, angry before Hinata and the others showed up. And he went to the register's office to update his wedding license and to get a birth certificate. He looked very proud as he gave the attendant their names and the date of his birth." Ibiki said quietly then watched as Iruka froze then sank to his knees.

"It was his birthday. We forgot and then he learns the truth on his birthday…Naruto." Iruka began to weep. He felt utterly helpless.

"His birthday and the day his parents died. A blessing and a tragedy all at once and it happened again just two days ago." Kakashi muttered as he looked around for something to punch but this was Hiashi's home. If he'd been at home Kakashi believed he would have destroyed it with his bare hands.

"But Naruto isn't broken. Hinata, his brothers and others showed up and welcomed him home. With them at least nothing has changed, he was almost normal. I was there when Naruto left, I saw the pain in him and it's less that it was that night. Maybe he's come to terms with it. I think you should give him a few days then try and talk to him." Ibiki offered. These people needed hope instead of the despair that was clinging to them.

Anko huffed. The despair in the room was suffocating so she tried changing the subject. "But it's not just Naruto avoiding us but Sasuke and the rest too. Except for the hospital and Ichiraku's those boys don't go anywhere else. I tried talking to Seiko but she just ran from me. Lord Hiashi has Neji and Hanabi come home?" Anko looked to the weary clan leader.

Hiashi nodded. "Briefly. Hanabi is torn between loyalty to me and her sister but she didn't ask for answers seeming to want to wait for Naruto. Neji as well was stiff with me but told me how strong Hinata was being. He told me that nothing was being said about the situation. The children could have been using their synch while they were waiting for Naruto to return home before discussing anything. Naruto seems to be the center of their group. Their thoughts and actions hinge on his." Hiashi smiled slightly. "He is their clan leader."

Jiraiya grunted and Ibiki laughed for it was true. It was a clan made up of different families, different abilities but as real as any clan and just as strong as one that had been around for generations.

"I have to wonder though what the outcome would have been if we'd told him on the island." Jiraiya said into the silent room.

Hiashi sighed heavily. "Don't kid yourself Jiraiya; the outcome would have been the same except that Naruto would have never come home at all. No more what ifs about Naruto's reaction to the truth. He did come back to Konoha and now we focus on keeping him with us, letting him know we acted out of love if not common sense. Come Iruka, get up." Hiashi moved the man still kneeling on the floor and helped him to stand. He wrapped an arm around Iruka giving and receiving comfort. "Naruto's felt our love; we just have to believe he'll remember that. We have to pray he will." Hiashi escorted him over to a cabinet where he poured a little sake for them both.

"What about Gaara? Did Naruto send him away?" Tsunade asked as she leaned closer to Jiraiya. It appeared Naruto was shunning the adults and though Gaara was young, he represented an office of great authority and Naruto may resent that.

"Not at all. In fact Gaara made a screen of sand so that Naruto wouldn't have to see all the people constantly watching him as they went back to the district. He was even allowed inside. I suppose if Naruto or the others refuse to speak with you, Gaara just might." Ibiki informed her.

Tsunade nodded and rubbed her hand over her face. "Fine, I'm going back to work. For once I'll be glad of all the stacks of paper so I don't have to think!" She pushed herself up feeling weak and old.

"Your escorts are waiting just outside my lady." Ibiki had insisted on them. Things weren't normal in the village right now. Nobody was being violent but he wanted no chances now that the truth was out.

Tsunade just nodded, spoke not another word and left the room. Jiraiya got to his feet. "I should go and keep an eye on her. Iruka pull it together man. We have to be ready for when Naruto's ready to talk to us. If he sees you all acting guilty he may never believe in you again." He spoke to the man's back but when he got no response he shrugged, gave a wave to the rest of them and left. Ibiki soon followed.

"I'm mad as hell at all of you too, just so you know! You never said a word to me!" Anko exclaimed as she crossed her arms over her chest. She was still trying to avoid thinking that she may never have a close relationship with the kids she'd come to love and the fact that a lie now stood between her and Kakashi. "But that's not the only problem. Yeah we need to get the kids' trust back but what about our enemies? The Akatsuki aren't just Naruto's problem but the whole damn village's. We gotta get our shit together because we just dealt a heavy blow to the Akatsuki and you know they're not going to take that lying down. Geez when are we going to catch a freaking break around here?!" Anko exclaimed then went to help herself to some sake too. The others had nothing much more to add and so each sat or stood lost in their thoughts.

Naruto laughed at their shocked and worried expressions. Obviously they thought he'd lost it. He convinced them to move into the living room so he could explain things. Neji stoked the fire as everyone got comfortable. Naruto sat on the floor before Hinata's chair while Hanabi sat at his side.

"Basically what happened is my parents were able to seal some of their chakra inside of me along with Kyuubi. They wanted to be there for me if something should go wrong with the fox's chakra." Naruto's voice was sad and he stared into the fire. "Instead they appeared because I felt like I was losing my mind. The Hokage, the Toad Sage, Iruka, Kakashi, Lord Hiashi and…Shikamaru – people I loved and respected were suddenly cruel strangers." His breathing had sped up and Naruto had to consciously calm down.

Takeshi looked over at Sasuke sharing an understanding. Naruto used titles or proper names for all those he'd before called family. They too had in fact refrained in their minds and out loud from saying Mama, Dad and Jiraiya. It was hard to think of them as special people after the other night.

Naruto blinked and looked down at Hanabi who put her hand on his leg. "Don't hate him Hanabi not for me. I know for a fact that he loves you, all three of you." He met Neji's gaze then glanced over his shoulder at Hinata.

"He loves you too Naruto, Father really does!" Hanabi clutched at his clothes wanting him to believe her.

"I think so too Naruto. Uncle was often harsh in the past, calculating but I don't believe any of his actions toward you were anything but real. Like us," Neji gestured at his female cousins. "Uncle wanted a united family and your presence made that happen. I also don't believe he knew about your parents, not the whole time anyway. Please Naruto you must speak with him and clear the air. Let us remain a family!" Neji was so agitated that he was on his feet then on his knees in front of Naruto.

"I can't promise that Neji." Naruto was shaking his head. "I'll talk to them all, I have to confront them but be what we were? I'm not sure that will ever happen. I still feel…care about them even if I don't want to but I also still feel betrayed and disappointed in them. The lies and secrets – how can I respect them? My parents too want me to forgive them but I'm a long damn way from that!" His blue eyes flashed angrily.

"Wait – why? Did you tell them about how you were treated?" Sasuke leaned forward.

"They already knew. Along with Kyuubi they experienced everything that happened to me. It…saddened them more than angered them. They want me to forgive so that I don't become consumed with hate." Naruto expression looked exasperated and confused.

Hinata threaded her fingers in his hair. "Despite everything Naruto you grew into a wonderful man. I bet they're really proud of you aren't they?" She asked leaning forward so she could see his face. There was a pleased flush on his face at her words. "Hate and being unable to forgive will turn you into a hard and cruel man. I think we should all try to forgive them but it will take some time." Hinata finished softly as she briefly hid her face in Naruto's hair.

Neji nodded slowly and sat himself down on the floor next to them. It wasn't a quick solution but then the problem was very complicated. Time was needed, possibly a lot of it.

Fu was also on the floor with her elbows propped up on the table as she stared at Naruto. "Wow. You're a Jinchuriki like me but so different! I've never imagined some of the things you can do and now you can talk to your dead parents. I know that's not something you had control over but dammit Naruto you're one in a million or at least one in nine! Did they say anything else, your parents?" She wiggled her body getting more comfortable.

"Actually, they had a whole lot to say. I know why Pa sealed Kyuubi in me and who's responsible not only for how they died but why Kyuubi attacked the village that night." Naruto was no longer relaxed. Though everything had happened sixteen years ago and there wasn't any possibility of changing it, he got angry at what happened, at what could have happened if his father hadn't been alone, if the enemy hadn't been so damn strong. Naruto knew he'd been in the world only a short time but he wanted his baby self to do something to stop his parents from dying.

"Naruto, do you want all of us here for this?" Gaara asked uneasily. This was very private information and possibly it was something the Hokage would disapprove of him knowing.

Naruto looked at Gaara sitting on the couch his gourd over by the door. He looked out of place with the heavy face paint and yet just seeing him there knowing at one time each of them had tried to kill the other but instead had become friends, it warmed Naruto's heart. "Stay. I think my news will be important to us all. Chibi can I have some more tea?" He asked of Hanabi then laughed when she pouted at him. "I'll wait for you but I'm going to be talking for a while okay?" He tapped her mouth.

"Come on Sister; let's bring the tea pot in here for everyone." Hinata said standing and holding out her hand for her little sister. "The secrets are over though we may wish to protect you from them." It only took a few moments to bring in tea and cups. Ayame had even thought to bring in the cake for anyone who wanted more.

Naruto took a nice long drink of his tea. He'd gotten off the floor to share Hinata's seat. "I'm not the first Jinchuriki for Kyuubi. In fact I'm the third one of my clan – my mother's clan. My mother held Kyuubi before me and only because she was attacked shortly after giving birth to me was the decision made to make me the next Jinchuriki." He tried to tell it without feeling as if were just a fact of history but his voice cracked and he held onto Hinata as she cuddled closer. "Ma was attacked after just giving birth – to me. They weren't in the village; they wanted the village to be safe in case something went wrong with Ma's seal. Pa moved us to somewhere outside the village but somebody found us. A man in a mask." Naruto growled looking at his brothers. "My Pa thinks its may be the same one in the Akatsuki now. That same bastard that Kakashi found it so hard to beat. If only I'd known…" The cup in Naruto's hand broke into small pieces. He cleared his throat, "Sorry. It's okay though. We brought home Itachi. I'll get another chance at that guy." And that was a stated fact that Naruto would move heaven and earth to make that happen. He took several calming breaths.

"Even then the goal was Kyuubi and that bastard got him. Took him from my Ma and set him loose on Konoha. Somehow he's able to control him. Kyuubi thinks…he thinks its Uchiha Madara." Naruto shook his head royally confused by that piece of information.

And he wasn't the only one Sasuke stood his hands in his hair and began to pace. "Impossible! That's not possible! He's years dead!"

"Madara?" Takeshi asked and got a quick flash from Sasuke. "Why Madara? Why does the Nine-Tails think its Madara?" He too got up, pulled his long hair over his shoulder and began fiddling with it.

"Because the man had a Sharingan, a powerful one and who besides Itachi had such a kekkei genkai? You don't know how powerful the Sharingan will become! Kakashi said this Tobi moved damned fast. Almost like he was moving through space or time. And what about Kakashi's Kamui? He's able to transport people/things to a different space or time. Who's to say this guy didn't discover a jutsu that would keep him alive for a long damn time?! But if it isn't Madara...then there's another Uchiha out there. An Uchiha who doesn't give a damn about you or Itachi, this village or any of the elemental nations!" Naruto had become agitated and stood slipping out of Hinata's arms. He moved to confront Sasuke.

"Naruto!" Takeshi said moving forward to prevent - what he didn't know.

Naruto grasped Sasuke's shoulders. "My parents and Kyuubi are warning us. Whatever is going on with the Akatsuki was already happening around the time of my birth, possibly before! Pa gave us clues that we need to act on Sasuke." He got in his brother's face. "Maybe it's another guy who stole a Sharingan but a Sharingan is involved. Whatever the case may be, we have to stop them!"

Takeshi placed a hand on each of their shoulders. "Madara/Tobi, the Akatsuki have harmed this family and that's enough to take them out. Sasuke?" Takeshi and the phoenix inside him agreed whole-heartedly with Naruto.

Sasuke's wild eyes calmed and he became determined. "Yes. Naruto's parents, my clan…he/they started this fight but we will end it!"

Gaara sat with his arms crossed thinking over this information. Naruto and Sasuke weren't the only ones with a personal connection to this Tobi guy. He'd been kidnapped and killed for his Bijuu. Gaara too wanted to face this unknown enemy and eliminate him.

Tobi entered a cave. It was dark at first but shortly a flickering torch provided some light. As he moved further in there was more light and furniture. Sprawled in one of the chairs was Kisame. "You didn't contact Pain. I assume you failed and where is Itachi? Is he dead?" Tobi tossed his cloak on top of a chest and straddled another chair.

"I had to spend a little time healing my injuries so no I didn't run back here to Pain and yeah, I think Itachi is dead." Kisame crossed his ankles and looked up the stalactites. "There were using tons of genjutsu so I could have seen anything but he appeared dead to me." There was a slight note of regret in his voice over losing his partner. In some ways, Itachi had been his best friend.

"Not dead." Black Zetsu said as his two-toned plant head poked up out of the dirt and gravel. "Well he may be now but he wasn't before you turned tail and ran away!" White Zetsu joked. The fly-trap closed protecting his face from the kunai that Kisame threw at him.

"So they made it look like he was dead then took him back to Konoha. They'll probably use a Yamanaka to ferret out his secrets." Tobi said thoughtfully then shrugged. "He knows a few things but not enough to harm my plans." The masked man turned his face to Zetsu. "And where the hell have you been?"

"Here and there. You lost your battle too." He broke off and laughed when Kisame sat up suddenly gaping at Tobi. "Kisame forfeited battle his and lost Itachi so I thought you might be interested in recruiting some new members. I found some interesting shinobi a while back and went to check on them." Zetsu smiled at Tobi.

Tobi's head tilted to one side. "Recruits at this late stage? Who and where did you find them?" He was curious but he was ready to take things to the next level and didn't have time to train or convince new people to his way of thinking.

"Why not? They're quite strong and loyal or will be once they meet you. Their last leader was very strong. He…wowed them with his power." White Zetsu's chuckle sounded throughout the cave. "Orochimaru didn't make a good Akatsuki member but he could always find the most promising shinobi." Black Zetsu informed them while his eyes looked inquiringly from Kisame to Tobi.

Kisame and Tobi both laughed with delight. Indeed in his quest for innumerable jutsus Orochimaru sought out shinobi of extraordinary talent. Both S clans ninjas knew they could indeed use and control these people easily.

"Yes, yes!" Tobi exclaimed. He was especially pleased. Konoha and most definitely Naruto were owed an expensive lesson and he could not wait to teach it!