Naruto Fanfiction

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto

Author's Note: I changed the image for the story as a friendly reviewer mentioned there are much better pictures of black apples out there. Originally I chose the previous picture symbolically, as in… The pure Naruto as in a pure apple was rotting from the inside, thus turning into the black apple. This in turn would/will change Yami Naruto into Akarusa (?) Naruto. Which actually is/might be a future plot event.

Anyway.

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 15 - Bottom Of The Sky

"You've found yourself in a hopeless situation." The voice let out, with a groan as undertone. "I have to admit I've never imagined being doubly imprisoned. Humans, the lot of you are incessant, desperate creatures."

"Be quiet."

"Insect! Show me the respect I deserve!"

"Respect? I have come to learn you've fooled me for years. Fooled me since I was born, even. I don't think I'll ever respect you."

"You've only yourself to blame. An unloved human is so easy to drag into a hole."

"So I can only blame myself because no one loves me?" The boy uttered in the empty room. A memory of female figure flashed through his head.

"Your mother died as you were born. I'll admit that you were loved, even if it was for but a second." A cackle followed. "But then it died. I was the one who was always there for you! Ungrateful human!"

"My mother, she still lives in me."

"You humans are so naive… But I guess therein lies power, too. You'll see eventually, Gaara. Like I have seen. Certain things are destroyed when you come within reach of them."

"Talkative?"

The boy from Suna, Sabaku no Gaara, looked up to see the red-haired, thirty-five year old Uzumaki Danzo.

"He is. But nonsensical, as well."

"I have no experience conversing with Bijuu. Perhaps all of them are similar in that regard?"

Gaara tuned out the yelling in his head.

"You brother and sister are safe. We've even managed to reattach an arm to the puppeteer. He'll have to adjust for a least a month, however."

"Am I… still not allowed any questions?"

"You're not, but soon. He is on his way back. Konoha has his hands full at the moment, she'll need its pariah to straighten things out."

"Pariah?"

"Uzumaki Naruto is Konoha's Jinchuuriki. You and he have certain similarities in life. He didn't want you dead, because he thinks you are family."

With that, the somewhat older man left the white room. Gaara was once again alone with Shukaku still trying to pretend to be his mother.

A few days ago, Danzo had released the Gogyou Fuuin on his Seal, reopening the connection with Shukaku. It was a shock at first, especially with how pissed off Shukaku was.

But the Bijuu, too, had realized that in Konohagakure he couldn't play the game he played in Sunagakure. He was cautious. Gaara was surprised by this turn of events.

While his questions always went unanswered, Danzo did provide him with information every now and then.

So with family… did Danzo mean he could be blood-related to Uzumaki Naruto? Or did he mean family in a Jinchuuriki way?

The explosion expanded into at least a dozen more, their creator cackling with insanity. "You can't escape True Art!"

"Our opponent has the ability to slip through anything and teleport pretty much anywhere. You'd think he'd realise a frontal assault seems pointless." The legendary puppeteer Sasori complained as he watched Deidara hover in front of them on a Clay Owl. "That bird he's on packs serious power, as well."

"He's following and targeting a diversion, it seems Zetsu is capable of making a genuine copy of himself, the Chakra Presence exactly the same." Itachi supplied information while keeping a close eye on his surroundings. "My usual way of fighting is unsuited for them, the usage of Kamui negates close to all."

"Your plan remains unchanged?"

The stoic Uchiha nodded at Konan, who split herself into countless pieces of paper after.

"He has the ultimate evasion skill. We need an attack with numerous, endless executions, not letting up for as long as we can control..." The Uchiha sent knowing glances to his allies.

Sasori couldn't chuckle in his current form. "Very well, I suppose I'll use my trump cards."

It hadn't surprised Sasori that Uchiha could see through him. Months ago, he came to him with the possibility that this day would come. The Sharingan Itachi had was evolved immensely if he could read the contents of all his scrolls.

One of his scrolls carried a close to limitless supply of Fire. Another held about a hundred puppets. The third and fourth, however, were his true scrolls. One could only be opened if the other was opened first.

With an easy handsign, the first scroll activated and out came one hundred and twenty puppets. Amongst the many of them, stood an improved Karasu, Kuroari, Sanshouo, Hiruko and the Third Kazekage wielding the Legendary Satetsu.

Sasori wasn't done, however. "Kinjutu; Nijuujinkaku." Sasori muttered, indicating he wasn't pleased about having to perform his Forbidden Technique. "Careful, everyone. There's a possibility I might turn less… suicidal."

From the third scroll, another Sasori Puppet emerged. It was an exact replica of the original Sasori. "We are both Sasori. To elaborate, we are both incomplete. I split my essence into two, should I ever be defeated."

Itachi nodded, already having guessed this. Konan was all around them in the useful, but fragile all-encompassing technique Nuru no Jutsu. The Uchiha himself was using something similar, another execution of his Murder Of Crows Genjutsu.

While Deidara was still attacking White Zetsu Diversions with Yakusu and Zetsu's Chakra Presences, Han and Roshi were busy being a bit confused. "The child hasn't changed one bit." Han bit out regarding Deidara, steam slowly bellowing from around him. "But Itachi did tell us… this opponent can be everywhere at the same time. Best not to let our guard down."

The other Jinchuuriki was a bit ahead of him, already Chakra Cloaked. "Then get going already, Han!"

More than a hundred Puppets began swirling around them, countless pieces of razorsharp paper flying among them, numerous cackling crows joining them, two Chakra-Cloaked Jinchuuriki, not one but two Sasoris and Deidara, an explosion expert able to use miniature explosions that can also encompass the entire area.

They should have things covered, figuratively and literally.

"We can't get away! Kamui is only working partially! You know what that- ! These fools! These fools don't know what they've done!"

Dimension hopping seemed so convenient, but it was quite a bother. Other than the massive head stabs with every single usage, it took a significant bite of Chakra and… Identity Essence. They couldn't use it carelessly. While Yakusu was busy panicking, Zetsu was thinking a bit further.

'I'm sorry, little brother.' The dark half of all Zetsu thought. 'I'll be needing all of you to get out of here alive.'

He never hesitated… He simply stabbed himself into Yakusu and took over his entire body and life. The brighter part of the two's existence ended sadly and abruptly.

With a sad thud, Uzumaki Nagato's body fell to the ground.

Hovering in mid-air, stood Ootsutsuki Zetsu, now complete again. A Dual Rinnegan and Mokuton wielding individual. "You've left me no choice."

Even though he was surrounded by an endless amount of Jutsu waiting to be sprung on him, the Ootsutsuki was calm. "I am no longer your enemy. I've lost."

And all the attacks came.

"But I won't die so easily."

'A Genjutsu Cloak… High-level, I shouldn't have expected any different from Konoha. ' They were being lead by two ANBU Squads to a secure place. Each individual in the two squadrons was no joke, he could judge by the very serious expression on Shi's face.

They were being led to an area that still seemed under construction, with half-finished buildings and a lot of what he could see Genin doing minor Missions. They themselves went by unnoticed, courtesy of the Genjutsu Cloak. "They can't hear us either."

Darui's eye moved to the female Anbu Operative who talked, wondering if she was an advanced Yamanaka that could read minds. But the red ponytail would indicate otherwise.

"You'll be under heavy surveillance during your stay here. If what you said is true, things will turn rather drastic soon. For both of us." The Commanding Officer spoke. With both meaning Konoha and Kumo. Forgive us the hasty lead, you'll have to wait here for quite a while. Most are in a meeting.""

'Understandably, with the news of Kumogakure being overtaken by Orochimaru.'

Darui and the rest of the Kumo refugees were being led into a fresh building that seemed like it was finished just a few days ago.

Once inside, though, it was very pleasant.

It was a cafeteria.

But Darui could see and read the body languages. Every single person working in this cafeteria was a Shinobi. And not shoddy ones, either.

The Kumo-nin didn't know that they were all Root rejects.

"Make yourselves comfortable. We will ALL be here for a while. All drinks and food are free at the moment."

"Thank you." Darui and the rest of the Kum-nin bowed.

The ANBU Squads separated into two, getting comfortable in corners of the cafeteria.

The occasional customer came and went, but the group of Kumo-nin remained silent. They didn't eat or drink, their thoughts only on Kumogakure.

After about an hour, an individual approached them.

'Around thirty, extremely healthy and excellently poised.' Darui immediately observed. He knew somehow, this man was a leading figure.

"My condolences. Nothing I say will be of any true comfort." The red-haired man started. Uzumaki Danzo had two grey eyes, he didn't have a Sharingan. "It is unfortunate, but you will have to be detained until further notice. Too many uncertainties make room for doubts. Surely, you understand."

With a quick motion of his right hand, Darui silenced any of his squad that might speak up at that. "Of course. Please, lead the way. We will follow every order, every rule."

"Good. You understand how things can work quick later rather than sooner." The higher-ups, he himself included, were still unsure of how to deal with this situation. The Hokage was busy with a lot of reports from neighbouring villages on whether they were safe or not.

Orochimaru sure knew how to make his moves.

Ootsutsuki.

Ohatsutsuki.

With things as they were, he considered nothing farfetched no longer. He had been sleeping on the job for too long.

No.

He, as in all of them, were forced into slumber on this. Just how much was there that they didn't know? He needed to deploy research squads immediately. Information on this is everything.

"You called for me?"

Nara Shikaku gave the man he had summoned a stern, serious gaze. It gave the man pause and a small amount of disbelief. And the silence remained further.

"... War?" He whispered, slightly anxious.

As anxious as Hyuga Hiashi could be. Nara Shikaku was, as he himself witnessed many times, oftentimes lax. To see him serious here was… foreboding.

A snort came from the Jounin Commander. "Perhaps." The Hyuga watched as the Nara fished a cigarette from one of his pockets. "I need the tracker team elites to form a squad with our intelligence team elites. Four."

Sensing the severity of the situation, Hiashi threw away the questions in his head. "I have a select few focused solely on reconnaissance, distance and extreme-detailed analyzation. You'd do well to include the Aburame and Inuzuka for this."

"Obviously. I want you in charge of this operation, Hiashi-san. I will share with you why."

Because the Hyuga had a much bigger stake in this than anyone probably knew. And so Shikaku explained everything he knew.

"Haaaa…." It came out as a harsh whisper as smoke billowed around the figure. "As much fun as I've had in the recent decades, this restricted freedom still defeats it." Sharp, dangerous eyes considered the individuals before it… or her?

"Don't underestimate arrogance, boy. Knowledge is a power often misused." The light-blue haired girl stretched her muscles. "Your ability isn't too bad, you can even form clothing from Chakra."

"I've been able to expand on its absorption skills. Living things, even their remnants, are powerful. Much, if not all, was once alive."

"Hm, wisdom…. borrowed or not, it still counts. As is what is expected of the Black Apple."

"Samehada…. You've given me far more on history lessons than any other I've taken in."

The blue-haired female nodded once at Naruto, not bothering glancing at any others behind the blonde. "You're too weak. Once here, I will turn on you as well."

Naruto grimly smiled. "We'll see about that."

With a single thought, Samehada faded away into Chakra whisps, back into Naruto.

Starting with a sigh, the leader of the current squad turned to the others.

Right now, he was with Hatake Kakashi, Jiraiya, Hyuga Neji, Uchiha Sasuke and Aburame Shino.

The former Akatsuki Member Hidan, who had taken the name Bunmyaku from the Technique that was used to revive him after being banished from the Junnou Clan, also worked for him now.

"Kekkai Genkai… Mutations and dilutions. Weaker offsprings of a force even I will crumble against. I have the ability to morph whatever faces me into my own power. It's not endless. We need to put my ability to better use. I need help with cultivating numbers and… existences."

"What did you learn?"

"You wish to know, Jiraiya?" Naruto's voice was a bit hollow, as if the knowledge he learned sucked him dry.

The Toad Sage saw agony, perhaps greed, in the boy's eyes.

"The downfall of my ability is wanting more. The opposite might actually make me stronger. Or..." Kurama's words from weeks ago came to him. He still hadn't learned how to kill a soul. "I need to surpass Senjutsu. Otherwise we will not stand a chance."

"I did not foresee them… or him, fleeing."

There's a first time for everything. A confused Itachi. Sasori, Konan and Deidara had never seen that before in all their time in Akatsuki.

Well, Konan wasn't really paying attention since she was tending to a unconscious Nagato.

Han and Roshi were seated on the floor, not really caring about it.

"I didn't even know they were actually two people!" Deidara admitted without shame. "Thought that voice thingy was just a weird habit."

The puppeteer sighed. He had already sealed his other half back into a scroll, alongside all his other puppets and techniques. "Can't be good, I assume." He knew Itachi. Knew him as the worst case scenario thinker. If it wasn't in his head, it's probably bad.

"It means I was correct. Even they have something they fear." Itachi's gaze hardened, as if he was tempted to do something. "He will probably go after Orochimaru."

"Hm, the fool who tinkers too much with the unknown. Ootsutsuki Zetsu will probably take advantage of that." The addition Sasori supplied wasn't enlightening for Deidara.

"Maybe those two will kill each other."

"Zetsu has a Rinnegan, Mokuton and an extremely high amount of Chakra. As we have learned, he can also fly. I don't think Orochimaru can survive that, no matter how many lives he has stocked up on through his Cursed Seals."

"He has perfected the Edo Tensei. It's a gamble, but I believe Sasori is correct. Orochimaru will still lose that battle." The Sharingan user released a relieved sigh and chose to sit down as well. "It is very intriguing. Hoshigaki Kisame and Hidan, I've learned, seemed to have joined the Konoha Forces. I am unaware of the reasons, but perhaps we should investigate."

"It's Uzumaki Naruto." Konan looked over her shoulder at Itachi, Sasori and Deidara. "He, Zetsu," She spat out with hatred. "Mentioned something about him having the Black Apple."

THere was a short silence, before one of the two Jinchuuriki yelled out. "What?!"

All of the former Akatsuki Members turned to Roshi, the one who had shouted. Han wasn't as close to his Bijuu.

"If what Son Goku says is true, we're all going to want to join this Black Apple Naruto fellow." Roshi stated incredulously. "He says a big player has just started moving."

Itachi rose again and faced the two Jinchuuriki. "That will be complicated. Konoha's foundation has been in jeopardy for a long time. I have heard little of this Black Apple ability, but I do believe it wiser to remain unnoticed for a while. Nagato..." Here Itachi chanced a glance at the downed Uzumaki. "is barely even a shadow of his former self now. Kirigakure, at the moment, might be a better move."

The Konoha-nin all waited for the final members to go through security. It was a hassle, but they were really finding it difficult to let Hidan into Konoha, despite Jiraiya's, Kakashi's and Naruto's support.

There was little surprise when Hidan suddenly screamed obscenities at someone who was trying to put him to sleep with Genjutsu.

Most Genjutsu rely on types of fear. Hidan lacked most types of fear. "Fucking weak Genjutsu! That shit doesn't work on me, insect!" The Jashin Follower screamed at a particular roof.

The roof where an Anbu Squad was under Camouflage Genjutsu.

"Look, just let me get to the Hokage." Jiraiya let out, feeling like he had quite enough of the day. He actually was planning to hit the Hot Springs as soon as he set foot in Konoha. "Otherwise this is not going to go quickly." The Sage drawled out to the Gate Security Guards. Right now, they were Hagane Kotetsu, Kamizuki Izumo and Namiashi Raido. The latter was Jounin Rank and nodded to Jiraiya, who quickly used Shunshin.

"Naruto… taichou. Are we allowed to excuse ourselves?" Hyuga Neji stepped forward, motioning to himself, Sasuke and Shino.

The blonde looked a bit surprised, before turning to them. "Report to the Hokage as well. You need to get your papers changed as you've all become Chuunin. Kakashi, maybe you can meet with Danzo."

Hidan had remained rather calm throughout the entire ordeal, all things considered. "This shit's taking pretty long, Jashin-sama."

"Bear with it." The Uzumaki murmured as he saw the three fresh Chuunin move towards the Hokage Tower, while Kakashi simply used Shunshin. "You'll become a Shinobi once again, Hidan. It will take time."

Absentmindedly twiddling a yellow tulip in her fingers, Ino was browsing through Icha Icha Tactics. Her team was supposed to show up in about an hour in her family's Flower Shop. "I can't believe Jiraiya-sama became famous with these obvious plots..."

"I can't believe Yamanaka Ino needs advice from smut books."

Unimpressed, Ino looked up at Sakura. "I can't believe I didn't notice you come in. But I guess that forehead of yours blocks a lot of light and sound."

"Ugh, that one was really lame, even for you." Sakura easily backhanded the comment away. "I'm supposed to join your team practice for today."

"You're more than an hour early." The blonde deadpanned, turning back to the book on the counter. She wasn't surprised however. Sakura always was more than punctual.

"Yeah, that's better than late."

"It's not if you're THAT much earlier. The early bird catches the worm, but the earliest dies of boredom… and has serious abandonment issues."

"Whatever. I was bored. My entire team is outside of Konoha. Sasuke-kun should be getting back soon, I hope he got promoted to Chuunin this time."

The Yamanaka shrugged, putting the Icha Icha away. "Have you been to the Uzumaki Estate?" She changed subjects instead.

Her love rival leaned against the counter Ino was standing behind and nodded once. "Constructions are still in progress, but it looks impressive. I don't know how they pulled it off, but it seemed they built more than a hundred houses in a week."

"People don't seem to be allowed in yet, though. I figured since you were on Naruto's team you might have been."

Another nod. "I don't know too much about it… Convenience stores, restaurants and libraries were already manned, though. I know there's restricted access, but I don't know why."

"Oh? Knowing you, you've done some research? Without a team, you've got plenty of time on your hands, right?"

"It's funny." Sakura's expression turned a bit regretful. "Our class clown, dead-last classmate…. He's an Uzumaki. I don't understand why he's been treated so poorly. I did a bit of digging, to no avail. There's no one that knows anything about him… or is not sharing."

"But?"

"There's information about the Uzumaki Clan, though only little. It seems they got eradicated many years back because they were too much of a threat to all nations. But they were allied with Konoha!" The pink-haired girl seemed troubled. "But there's no record of any support, or even retaliation from Konoha after Uzushiogakure was attacked."

Ino's eyes widened. "You think Konoha betrayed them?"

"I don't know. I only know the Uzumaki were known for their prowess with Fuuinjutsu, but I can't imagine Naruto even being able to get his grammar right."

"He's surprised us all before." Not holding back a snort, Ino continued. "I can't believe we're talking about Naruto, instead of Sasuke-kun."

"After we graduated from the Academy, Naruto really changed. I don't know if he's always been fooling us… or if something happened."

"It's probably a bit of both… and more. One thing us Yamanaka learn is that things aren't explained by just one thing." She tilted her head and considered Sakura curiously. "Say, you wouldn't be able to get us in the Uzumaki Estate after practice?"

"Who knows?" Sakura turned as Shikamaru and Choji entered the Flower Store. "Naruto should be getting back soon, too. He's been gone for a long time."

"Asuma-sensei's been summoned for a meeting." Shikamaru, lazily as ever, drawled. "He told us to go practice by ourselves, but I vote we skip." Then the Nara nodded to Choji. "I didn't want to, but he dragged me over to tell you guys anyway."

"No way, I want to train! Otherwise I'm stuck all day behind this counter! Besides," The Mind Specialist in training motioned to Sakura. "I want to kick Billboard into the sand a few times."

"I'm going home. I only came here to tell you practice's off as a courtesy." Shikamaru walked out of the store.

Ino glared at his retreating form, grumbling a bit as well. "You'd think things change!"

Choji stuffed another chip in his mouth before speaking. "He says he's going home, which is true. But he's actually training with his dad. So if you're up for another training partner, I'm game!"

"That's the spirit, Choji! Let's practice our Family Jutsu on Sakura!"

"Sounds like fun." The one in question deadpanned.

"Your teammate is… interesting."

"He's a nightmare."

"He kills and absorbs humans. Yes, I do believe that fits the description."

The young Uchiha and Hyuga walked out of the Administration Office located next to the Hokage Tower. They were tired from the long mission, but were rewarded with Chuunin Outfits and homework. Homework in the form of paperwork that came with becoming Chuunin. Many things to sign, many career possibilities and new regulations on what kind of service is expected from you in the Village.

It wasn't unexpected to either of them. "I am glad he is on our side. I wouldn't know what to do facing an enemy with his ability." Neji continued. The Hyuga glanced sideways, observing the everpresent stoic expression of the usual Uchiha. "Uchiha Sasuke, would you object in becoming members of the same squad? I would also like to train with you."

The Uchiha wasn't against it. Neji had defeated him, after all, so he definitely wasn't weak. "Don't start crying when you can't defeat me anymore."

A smirk formed in Neji's face. "I'll take that as a yes. And don't worry, my skills will ascertain your defeat any day."

Both their eyes had noticed the included Souran Document among all other application forms in the Administration Office.

After gazing at clouds for an hour or three, Shikamaru decided he'd built enough strategies in his head to deal with all the formations his father threw at him during a previous battles of Shogi. Time to test them out.

Sliding the doors open that allowed entrance to the living room of his house, the young Nara was surprised to find Naruto leaning against a wall and a red-haired man with a typical Nara haircut playing Shogi against his father on the floor.

'Why is Naruto here?'

"Shikamaru." His dad greeted slowly. "Good timing. I'm currently in a battle that still goes both ways against… Hyo-san. This might be good learning material, switch with me."

"What…." He complained instantly. "Our styles are different, I can't-"

"Sometimes a leading officer dies." Shikaku rose from his position. "It's up to an underling to be able to quickly and competently take over. Let's see your improvising skills."

Grumbling and glaring at his dad, Shikamaru took over his seat on the ground. He did glance at Naruto, though, and still wondered why the blonde was here.

The Shogi Board instantly had all his attention, however. He really liked the game, after all.

He didn't even notice Naruto and Shikaku relocating to another room as soon as this Hyo person made his move.

"Tell me…. Are they all actually really you in advanced memory control?"

Naruto considered the question as Shikaku lighted a cigarette. "It's a bit of both, Shikaku-san. They're really not dead."

"But not alive either. This Rinne Tensei you used, I've read about the limitations. Even those are still you… or at least yours."

It wasn't written down anywhere, but Naruto knew Shikaku figured it out by investigating reports about the massive temporary coma attacks weeks ago.

But the Jinchuuriki shook his head. "They're not me. They carry my Chakra, which makes your second assumption more correct."

"Hm. Nara Hyo turned Uzumaki Hyo. Can't say I'm particularly thrilled about that. Is there a way to truly revive them? Can you release them completely?"

"I've been struggling to come up with an answer to that... Kurama told me I need to learn how to kill a soul from within myself."

Considered farfetched, Shikaku still regarded it seriously. "The Mindscape, there are several ways to get there. Meditation is supposedly one. The Yamanaka are another. But then there's also the Falls of Truth. Though never proven, they say the waterfall at the Valley of the End is rumoured to be one of them. Another one is on Kumogakure's Island Turtle, Genbu. There're probably more. If you truly do need to kill something inside of you, I'd bet you need to do it in... person."

"The Yamanaka are really more powerful than people think." Naruto murmured. Shikaku couldn't agree more. "Their lineage is interesting."

With lineage in mind, Shikaku changed the subject. "You said you needed my help, Naruto. Just turns out I need yours too."

With an amused snort, Naruto 'willed' a particular Shinzui Bunshin out. "You have my full cooperation, Shikaku-san. I've already been informed of the Squad you put together."

The Jounin Commander didn't bat an eye at the sudden appearance of a light-blue haired young woman appearing from Naruto's Chakra. Naruto was impressed.

"Meet Samehada. In the past, she used to be an underling of the Ootsutsuki. Extremely powerful, too. But she was weakened and forced into a sealing that made her into a weapon. Kirigakure Blacksmiths claimed to have created this very weapon, but Samehada was the only weapon of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist that did not originate from Kiri…. This woman is a relic. She lived when the Ootsutsuki thrived."

Shikaku's eyes had widened in the meantime.

"I absorbed Hoshigaki Kisame and Samehada. The weapon fuses in more ways than one with its wielder and that was what limited her strength and freedom. She regained her freedom as soon as she stopped being a weapon." Naruto huffed and took a seat on the floor. "She is probably the strongest soldier I have… She listens to my commands and they are to answer any and all questions you have in total honesty."

Despite the grim situation, Shikaku couldn't help but feel excited… If what Naruto says is true, he can now find out about the true history of the Shinobi World.

"In turn, though…. I want yours, the Akimichi's and Yamanaka's complete allegiance to the Uzumaki Clan. I'd take more, but your reach is questionable beyond that."

More often than sometimes, Shikaku wondered if the characters Naruto absorbed could overpower Naruto's own. "You're cunning, Naruto." He started. "You already summoned Samehada before I could make a decision. Your tone suggests no deceit, but countless absorptions might have turned you into the best con artist in the world. Who can determine whether you speak lies or truths now? Is this woman really Samehada? Is Samehada even what you claim her to be?"

"True. You will need a Yamanaka and a Hyuga to confirm it. But even then..."

Shikaku shook his head. "Even that will not prove it completely. You know what you're asking."

"Your trust."

"I believe I am in a position where I can ask for more, then."

Naruto's eyes gleamed with admiration for the man. "You are, indeed."

"Unsummon Samehada for now… I will need time to consider my demands."

Naruto did so.

"Be careful with your tools, Naruto. You do know that is said the Black Apple destroyed itself from within. If words from the past are to be believed."

The blonde was already going for the exit. "I know, Shikaku-san. Believe me, I am taking precautions."

With the use of his right hand back, he was back to normal again. His normal self being a punk picking on people weaker than him. Although he seemed he have mellowed out quite a bit ever since the Chuunin Exams.

"I've never seen you around." The puppeteer turned to see a red-haired girl stare, no... glare, at him. "You a crossdresser?"

A twitch above his brow signified his instant annoyance. Cute girl, or not, no one insulted him and got away with it. "Fuck off, nuisance. I'm not in the mood to bitchslap little girls right now."

"Oh." Was the girl's response.

Kankurou turned completely horrified as his world changed completely and a horde of... naked men all came charging at him! Hundreds of them!

"Kai, motherfucker, Kai!" Kankurou yelled and formed the appropriate seal desperately.

Tayuya was unimpressed as she watched the make-up wearing boy dispelling Genjutsu after Genjutsu. "Idiot doesn't know he activates a new one every time he shouts out the name of the dispelling technique." She muttered. This particular Genjutsu Trap was voice activated by the victim. "Whoever didn't teach him Jutsu don't necessarily need to be voiced out loud should feel ashamed."

"Mind letting my brother go? He's actually crying."

Tayuya looked past the boy and saw a blonde girl with four pigtails approach. "This guy your sister?" Temari stared, unimpressed. "Fine, fine…."

As soon as his world changed back, Kankurou noticed his own state and quickly scurried into their newly assigned house. "Guess we're neighbours, huh?"

"I can guess he asked for it, but you seem to be of similar mind to my brother." The female Suna-nin let out in annoyed manner. "I'm Temari, my brother's name's Kankurou."

"Tayuya." The girl introduced. "You're the guys from Sunagakure, right? Well, welcome to the Uzumaki Estate. In case you didn't know before. If you don't want to be here, you won't be here for long..."

"What's your game, Raikage?"

"No game. Just an inquiry and a suggestion."

"You're too slick. What happened to you?"

"Konoha. That village has grown too strong. Even though I've grown an army twice their size, I know we'll more than likely still fall." A grinned unashamed and Oohnoki was disturbed to see such a different aura around the man.

The oversized man had crashed right in the middle of Iwagakure and demanded an audience. The audacity was definitely a sign this was the rowdy Raikage. But the man before him now, in his office, was a stark contrast to the man he knew as A.

Something was definitely odd here. Oohnoki was a very paranoid man. His personal strike team was ready to bring the man down should it be necessary, but there was no hostility.

"I've heard you've lost both your Jinchuuriki. Surely you wouldn't brush my proposal off without thinking over it carefully?"

Oohnoki's eyes narrowed perceptively. The man A definitely didn't have the skill Silver Tongue. And the nerve to show up by himself, without any Kumo Squads…

"Leave my village, Raikage. I am in no mood to be dragged into someone else's schemes. Losing a Jinchuuriki or two will not change the power of my country. We still have the means to turn all to dust, don't forget."

And then, Oohnoki's eyes widened as a man materialized right next to A. The Elite Team was ready to intervene until Oohnoki shouted out.

"M-Muu!?"

"You've grown old, Oki-kun."

Every night before heading home, he would always look over the Village. The view changed drastically recently, with the addition of the Uzumaki Estate. Hiruzen didn't know what to think of it, yet.

Big players in Konoha, big ones made even bigger. With his permission, Naruto had recruited members of the Akatsuki and would take in a former Konoha Shinobi long thought dead.

He had made Kakashi into an S-Rank Shinobi and Jiraiya would probably be able to defeat him now, too. Even more preposterous was Uzumaki Danzo, with impeccable control over the Mokuton. He had half of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist and quite a few unique Kekkai Genkai Users.

But if the information given to him by Naruto about an hour ago was very troubling. If true, he understood why Naruto was amassing an army.

He turned away from the view and held in a cough. He was still strong, but his strength, as was the thing with old age, was fading slowly.

'The offer will always stand, Hokage-sama.'

The words spoken to him were almost bewitching. And if he had to believe what he saw with his own eyes, Danzo was happy for it. Kakashi was stronger for it.

To be in his prime again? But would he really be himself, or were they all in actuality Naruto in disguise? Then again, if death was approaching anyway, did it truly matter?

The aging Hokage snorted, knowing above all to see truth around him. He knew Naruto would probably absorb him on his dying bed anyway.

The legendary professor, Sarutobi Hiruzen, back in power?

Was he actually…. excited?

"Huh. I'm really impressed with him. To think he would make such a big move."

"He gained a powerful body and a perfect Jinchuuriki. That on top of his perfected use of the Edo Tensei makes him a very powerful enemy."

Naruto was walking the streets of his own estate with Danzo and Tenzo, actually heading out into Konoha. "I'm no longer worried about Nuke-nin and Shinobi Nations. We have bigger monsters to deal with."

"Even though that's true, Orochimaru can't be underestimated."

"If the Ootsutsuki catch wind on what's going on here, they might serve as extra fuel for our enemy. Danzo, make sure our grounds will grow stronger. Employ promising Shinobi and make them stronger, finetune them. I will go into training on Mount Myoboku after I find Tsunade. Hopefully she will come along. Jiraiya will stay here and help you alongside Kakashi to make sure Konoha is better prepared for what is to come."

Tenzo was a bit confused, but heard the authority in which Naruto spoke to Danzo.

"I no longer receive information as a Revived One, but I can venture a guess the odds are not in our favor?"

"Should things turn south, I have an escape plan in place. Be sure you are at least in the Uzumaki Estate when you feel the situation hopeless." He then handed Danzo a Scroll. "You simply activate this Scroll in between your fingers as you use the Activate Handseal. It's attuned to your Chakra."

"Understood."

The blonde then turned to ANBU Captain. "Yamato… or Tenzo?"

"Call me Tenzo."

"I haven't spoken to Iruka for a while, but I think he's very much impressed with you." He watched the ANBU Member nod in gratitude. "Since you are one of Orochimaru's most prized and surviving test subjects, I can't help but be cautious."

Meaning he couldn't absorb Tenzo.

"But you're most certainly one of the most valuable members of the Shinobi Force in Konoha. Seeing as you can't be part of my personal army, I hope your abilities will be passed down genetically."

"... Excuse me?"

"Also, and I have discussed this with Hokage-sama, I request of you that you and yours are the only ANBU Squad that will have a connection with Souran. Should you agree, you will have your personal headquarters in this estate as well. And well... Danzo speaks well of you, I would like to welcome you as a member of the Uzumaki Clan. I know you're no Senju, but you have their blood. Blood connected to the Uzumaki. Above that, blood purer than an Uzumaki's."

"Ah… I don't really know what to make of all this yet. I have a lot of questions."

"Yes. And on this walk we are having, I am willing to answer all of them. And then we can also discuss whether we accept the Kumogakure refugees into the estate." He turned his head to look over his other shoulder, at Danzo. "You'll have Uzumaki Obito and Teidan Samehada at your service."

"Teidan?"

"She is one of the Five Guardians of the Ootsutsuki. The only other I can locate quickly would be Genbu in Kumogakure."

"Make the best of it, Samehada has knowledge about all Jutsu and Fighting Styles. We need to prepare for a war, because I believe Ootsutsuki Indra has been awoken."

"Is he that dangerous an enemy?"

"Most likely." He supplied to Danzo. "But more than that, his actions will loosen a lot more trouble than we might be able to handle."

"From observing Samehada's past, this is not outside of my abilities. It will take a big chunk from my total Chakra Potential, but perhaps that's only for the best. The Black Apple is a double-edged sword."

Having too much of something, backfires in unpleasant ways.

They then arrived where they wanted to be.

Tenzou was a bit confused as the three of them were staring at the grave of one Nohara Rin.

"Let's add another Jinchuuriki to our midst."

Danzo's eyes rested another tombstone nearby, however. Sarutobi Nohara Biwako.

"Akatsuki."

The group remained fearless as an army stood bearing down on them. It seemed Kiri had talented sensor-nin to have sensed them still this far from Kirigakure itself.

Uchiha Itachi had already prepared more than a dozen Genjutsu in advance, including his Murder of Crows Genjutsu, in case he needed to flee.

Akasuna no Sasori had deployed one of his few long-distance puppets.

The Deidara standing with them was a Clay Clone and the Konan a Paper Clone.

Han and Roshi were ready to unleash Jinchuuriki Hell should it be required.

Uzumaki Nagato was still unconscious being shielded by the real Konan miles back.

"Not Akatsuki." Itachi tried, but knew if would fall on deaf ears. Nothing would sway away hostility.

About fifty of them, but not all ranked Jounin. Perhaps not even half, the Uchiha estimated.

The former members of the Akatsuki knew…. They knew Kirigakure was low on strength ever since Terumi Mei had reclaimed Kirigakure. So should a battle occur, it would most likely end in Kirigakure's defeat.

The current Mizukage glared at the Uchiha in particular. "I will not allow a repeat, Uchiha. You are not allowed in my Village."

And he understood. The previous Mizukage had been under Obito's control. It stands to reason any Uchiha in Kiri would be met with suspicion and hostility.

None of them were particularly familiar with Kirigakure either.

Mei was biting the corner of her bottom lip in anticipation. 'Uchiha Itachi, Akasuna no Sasori, the mad bomber Deidara and Roshi and Han, Iwa's Jinchuuriki. I don't know the woman, but if she's with Akatsuki, she'll probably be a true threat as well.' She knew the realistic odds here.

"We did not come to wage war." Sasori spoke.

'That's too robotic a voice. He's not even really here.' Mei's eyes narrowed dangerously, glancing at Ao. The talented sensor-nin nodded his head once, but also gave an indication he couldn't sense any other presences nearby.

"Akatsuki has disbanded, we seek refuge." The puppeteer continued.

The auburn-haired woman wanted to laugh at that, but anger overshadowed it all. "What do you want here? Haven't you done enough damage to our country? I will not allow it any further! Make no mistake, Akatsuki. We will strike you all down."

"Understandable." Itachi spoke up and Mei's glare turned even fiercer. "We come with information." Here, the Uchiha held a scroll. "Nothing more. We will turn around and leave you in peace. You might not want it, but a war is coming and we will not be the ones you'll have to fight."

The forces of Kiri watched as Itachi gently put the scroll on the ground. "I pray for your and our safety."

Itachi then dissolved into crows flying away. Konan scattered to the wind as pieces of paper. Sasori disassembled into many pieces of wood and they all, much like Konan's paper, scattered to the winds. Deidara simply melted to the ground, leaving a mess.

Han and Roshi glanced at each other in surprise, having expected a big fight. They both turned around and walked away.

Mei's glare didn't falter. The scroll the Uchiha had left behind could still be a trap.

"What do you want to do, Mizukage-sama?"

"Use your Byakugan to read the contents of the scroll from here. And then we'll burn it."

Ao sweatdropped. A rolled up scroll, probably secured with Fuuinjutsu created by an Uchiha. But not just any Uchiha. Uchiha Itachi. And she wanted him to read it from a distance?

Her expectations of his stolen Byakugan were always too much… "Ah… Mizuka-"

"Just do it." She then turned around and motioned for the remaining forces to follow.

Ao's shoulder slumped as his one-eyed Byakugan gaze zoned in on the scroll. "This is going to be a very long night."

He never would have guessed to even be able to imagine the scenery before him. His trusted summons weren't amused with him. The Toad Sage frowned at his godson, wondering how he even had the guts to pull off what he just did here.

The blonde somehow had managed to release the Bijuu within him. Although it might just be some sort of advanced Henge and Shinzui Bunshin combination.

Kurama, the Ninth of the Tailed Beasts.

Isobu, the Third of the Tailed Beasts.

Goringata, the Gorilla Demon. Currently refraining from letting his toxic presence destroy everything around him.

Enma, the Monkey King. With his most trusted summoner Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Fukasaku, elder of the Toads. Behind him stood Gamabunta, Gamahiro and Gamaken.

Ibuse, Master of the Salamanders. He brought along some higher ranked Poison Toads, who had defected from the Toad Clan.

Katsuyu, one of the highest summons of the Slugs, with Tsunade also being present.

Aoda, a powerful serpent of the Snake Summons, with her summoner Mitarashi Anko. Manda was too much for her.

Ningame, a higher levelled Turtle. His summoner Maito Gai was also present.

Magamichi, Master of the Blood Wolves. Though Kakashi never had the honour of being able to personally summon the Elder or the Blood Wolves, his usual summons managed to reel the Master in for this meeting.

Goringata and Magamichi were the highest of ranks present.

"We have gathered here for a reason. Please refrain from destroying these beautiful lands."

His words were hardly heard over the sound of their own massive Killing Intent. The Monkey King sighed to himself as he didn't blame them. All currently present weren't exactly nest of friends.

They had all come to Mount Myoboku.

Enma wondered how long it would take before they could start this meeting and have possible talks about an alliance of the Animal Clans.

The Ootsutsuki will return, after all.

TBC

I've been writing an original story for a while now and was wondering if there were any readers of this story who are good at drawing manga and interested. The story is designed to be a manga and it's just that my drawing skills leave much, if not all, to be desired.

Next chapter will have Tsunade re-entering the story.

I was serious when I mentioned the Yamanaka Clan being underestimated. They're going to be part of the main plot of this story, too. As descendants of the Ohatsutsuki Clan.

Also, I couldn't for the life of me remember if Konoha had more Summoners than mentioned in the ending paragraph. I know Aoba has crows, but that's it. Figured Itachi would have the Crow Boss Summon. If anyone has more ideas for summons and Animal Demons, feel free to throw some my way.

I also wondered if Danzo knew Biwako personally. And perhaps he will...

Who knows what happened at the cemetery.

Let me know and thanks for reading!