Note: As some people seemed to be a bit confused regarding the timeline of The Legendary Sage of Konoha Return, which is the sequel to The Legendary Sage of Konoha, I decided to clear it out a bit on the 1st chapter; "The main event of The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns takes place 20 years after the event of The Legendary Sage of Konoha. So the current timeline is placed 20 years after Naruto and Sasuke's fight with Tobi, that were about to begin at the end of chapter 15 of the original."
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Series, Previous Chapters [In Chronological Reading Order]:
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns, Chapter 2:
Night had fallen across Konoha as the clock was slowly ticking towards 10 pm. In a house, someplace in the center of the village, a door went up and man, not too old of age, angrily walked inside, with his father and mother right behind him.
Minato: This is so ridicules! Why does aunt Kushina have to live in the sand village?!
Jiraiya: Minato calm down, we've already talked about this. Nothing to get this upset for.
Minato: I rarely see her because of it, and now that's she's pregnant, it's even more stupid than ever! It would be so cool to get to know and watch that kid grow up. I always wanted a little brother or sister, and now that I'll finally get a cousin, he or she will live halfway across the world, and I'll barely see them.
Miyuki: Your father is right, you can't always have family close to you. Besides, it's not that far to Suna, we could always pay them a visit.
Minato: Yeah, but with dad being Hokage and all, it's not like we can just walk out of the village and visit other places without doing all sorts of preparations and routines. It's always a mess!
Jiraiya: Like your mother just said, not everyone close to you can live around you all the time. And when two people from different villages meet up and falls in love, one of them will have to move, simple as that. Like Mito's mother, Temari; she moved here to Konoha instead of Shikamaru moving to Suna. And let's not forget about your mother, she moved here from Iwa.
Minato: But still... I had such a great time tonight! Everyone from the whole family was there, even Gaara... It would have been great to be able to see them more than three or four times a year. Besides mom, it wasn't like you moved here all by yourself, your whole family moved here together. The only family member who stayed behind was my great great grandfather, Onoki.
Miyuki: You're right about that, but I still had to adapt to a new village.
And if we hadn't moved here, I would never have met your father in the first place.
She said with a smile on her face as her hand joined with Jiraiya's.
Minato: ... True that, but... Ebizö could have moved here.
Refusing to come to sense, Minato still pressed the matter.
Jiraiya: No more ifs and buts, there's no reason to make a fuss over something like this. Besides, it's usually the woman who moves and not the man. You can't blame Ebizö. Kushina even wanted to move... Not because she didn't like it here, but because it was a totally new experience for her.
Miyuki: I know it might feel a bit different, being as she moved there only two years ago, but as time goes by, you will get more and more used to it.
Minato: Yeah I know... But I'm still finding it ridicules.
Jiraiya: I know how you feel on the subject son, but it's not like there's anything you can do about it.
Minato: Hah, you watch me! When I become kage someday, I'm going to make all of the villages come together as one country... and then, we won't have to bother with all the clearances and arrangements every time we're going to leave a village to visit another!
Jiraiya: Haha, you mean if... if you become Hokage one day son. You will have to surpass me first!
Jiraiya and Miyuki started laughing as Minato responded with a smirk on his face and said something that caught both his father and mother off guard.
Minato: Who said anything about becoming Hokage? Heh, you can keep the title dad, as I'm going to become sekaiteki-kage (Global shadow)! Just like...
Jiraiya: Heh, if you want to become sekaiteki-kage, you will have to beat me to it first!
Minato: Beating you won't be a problem!
Responding to Minato's mockery, Jiraiya fell right for his taunt.
Jiraiya: Fool! You think you have what it takes to surpass me already?!
Minato: You just wait and see dad, that's a promise!
Jiraiya: Haha, I'll keep you to it son.
He said as he rubbed his son's spiky blond hair.
Jiraiya: You know, with the spirit you show on the matter, you kind of remind me of how I was at your age. It's not like I always were this calm minded. I used to tease your grandfather a lot to get his attention.
A smile formed on his face as he reminisced the old days.
Minato: Yeah I bet... anyways, I'm off to bed now as it's getting late. See you guys tomorrow... Good night.
Miyuki: Yeah, sleep well.
Jiraiya: And don't forget to wake up in time for your training with your teammates and your sensei.
Minato: Of course I'll remember! Who do you think I am?
He said as he went into his room, slowly closing the door behind him.
Jiraiya: Sigh, what is there to be done with that kid...
Miyuki: Easy now... Here, sit down and clear your thoughts while I get you something to drink.
As she went out to the kitchen, Jiraiya laid down on the couch as he lifted his feet up and placed them on top of the table in front of him. He then intertwined his hands behind his head, thinking about the matter.
Miyuki: Here, take this.
Handing him a glass of water, Miyuki then sat down on the couch beside him. She slowly laid down and rested her head on his chest as he began to slowly brush her dark long hair with his left hand.
Miyuki: You know... He's right about one thing.
Jiraiya: Hmm...?
Miyuki: The whole family meeting up like this happens too rarely. We should get together like this more often.
Jiraiya: Yeah I suppose you're right, but it's not like everyone in the family has the time for this sort of gathering every week. I mean, it's not like we're some common family, now are we?
Jiraiya slowly took as sip of his glass with his right hand as he continued.
Jiraiya: Most of us have high ranking jobs, and just leaving the village takes time and planning. I didn't even think that Gaara would have time to come here today just for a birthday party.
Miyuki: Well your sister is surely a kind-hearted girl, so it's easy to get close to her.
She said as she moved to get even closer to Jiraiya. He followed up by kissing her forehead as the clock was closing in on midnight.
Jiraiya: What time is it anyways?... Oh, it's this late already.
Miyuki: Well yeah, this birthday party nearly took the whole day.
Jiraiya: Hmm... When I think about it, there's something I should take care of at the office before I go to bed.
Miyuki: You mean, like now?! Can't it wait until tomorrow?
She got up as she sat down on his lap, with her face toward his, trying to convince him to stall the work until the next day.
Jiraiya: Well I... I was suppose to get it done by today...
She crossed her arms around his neck as she leaned her head forward, closer to his, and kissed him passionately.
Jiraiya: I... If you put it that way... I guess it can wait.
Jiraiya put his glass of water down on the table and lifted her up in his arms. He carried her pass the living room and straight to their bedroom as the door closed behind them. Laying her gently down on their bed, he then pulled his shirt off as he began kissing her mouth, chin and neck with great affection. She rolled him over and got on top of him as she slowly began pulling her shirt off...
[...]
The sun stood high over Konoha as a ceremony on top of the Hokage mansion was just about to begin.
?: So this is it huh?
?: Yep, it seems that way Kiba.
Kiba: To think that the time has finally come.. It still seems a bit weird, Shino.
Shino: Who else would you have up there if not Naruto? He's...
Kiba: I guess Shikamaru could have been a good option too though.
?: You're right about that, but after all he did in the war, and the leadership he's shown, I guess Naruto's a good match for the position now.
Kiba: Heh, I guess you're right Choji.
Choji: Besides, I think Shikamaru will be better suited as an adviser to Naruto than the other way around. Shikamaru is way too lazy for being Hokage.
Kiba: Haha, I guess you're right.
?: So this is where you guys are!
Shino: Ino, Sakura, Tenten.
Ino: I guess everyone is getting ready, huh?
Tenten: Well, I still think we should have been allowed to stand up there with the rest, not here on the ground with the other civilians.
Sakura: There's no reason to make the place too crowded up there. Besides, it's only suppose to be Tsunade sama, Shikamaru, Kakashi, Gai, Hinata and the two elders up there.
Tenten: I guess you're right.
Ino: Look! There's Sai!
Sakura: ... And Lee, Neji and Temari too.
Ino: I'm going to head over there and talk with him.
Tenten: You sure aren't letting this one go, are you?
Sakura: *Giggle*... you know how she feels for him.
Ino: Hush!... Don't let him hear you!
Kiba: Haha, you should head over there now while you have the chance.
Ino: Humph!... I will, don't worry.
Sakura: Then what are you waiting for?
Ino: Alright, I'll head over there and talk to him.
She said as she grabbed Sakura's hand, dragging her with her over to the rest.
Shino: And there she goes, trying to...
Kiba: You think she will get his attention now?
Choji: Who knows... Hey Kiba, what's up with you and Tenten anyway?
Kiba: Ehhh?!
Tenten: !!
Taken completely off guard by Choji's question, both of them blushed and didn't know what answer to come up with.
Kiba: Ehm.. we... we've been..
Tenten: Dating, nothing more!
Shino: If you say so. Looks more like you're...
Choji: Look, something is happening up there now!
He said as he opened up another bag of chips, throwing the empty one away.
Tenten: I can't wait!
Shino (In thoughts): Why do they always interrupt me when I'm talking...
Rock Lee: I can't believe it's only been two days since Naruto and the rest returned from the kage meeting in Iwa, and now he's becoming Hokage... It's only like a week ago since the war ended. [Note - See Sasuke Chronicles 2]
Sai: I thought that since Sasuke got his name cleared after the meeting, he would return to Konoha?
Sakura: Well he decided to stay in Iwa as he thought it was a bit prematurely to return to Konoha now, and the Tsuchikage accepted that.
Ino: ...
Temari: Oh well, it can't be helped.
Neji: ...At least the war is finaly over now...
On top of the Hokage mansion, the two elders stood ready as Naruto walked in with Hinata and their baby in hand, while Shikamaru and Tsunade quickly followed. By the staircase, Gai and Kakashi watched closely as Naruto approached the handrail.
Gai: Who would have thought that we would see this day Kakashi... This is the third time we participate in such a ceremony, since Hiruzen Sarutobi was Hokage. To think that time has flown by so fast, and yet here we stand. The war is finally over, and Naruto is about to take position as the 6th Hokage. We're getting older and older while the next generation flourishes beside us. What are we going to do Kakashi?
Kakashi: ...
Gai: ...
Kakashi: Huh, did you say something?
Gai: What?! You weren't listening to what I said at all?!
Clearly disappointed after such a speech went unheard, Gai lowered his head in shame.
Gai: Uhh....
Kakashi (In Thoughts): Seeing Naruto like this... Damn it takes me back. This is just like when Minato became the 4th Hokage, it's like history repeating itself.
Gai: What's on your mind?
Kakashi: Doesn't Naruto remind you of someone right now?
Gai: Huh?... Well... Now that you mention it. He's almost identical to his father with the Hokage robe on.
Kakashi: Mhm...
Tsunade: So Naruto, this is it. Ready to address the people for the first time as Hokage? This is what you always dreamt of isn't it?
Naruto: Hehe, yeah...
Tsunade (In thought): Nawaki... Dan... The time has finally arrived. Naruto's dream... your dream...
Shikamaru: Geez... So many people down there. I don't know if I like being this much in the spotlight.
Naruto: Well you'll be my adviser, alongside Tsunade, after all, so the people will have to get to know you too, sooner or later.
Shikamaru: Yeah I guess. But I still find it troublesome to be shown off like this.
Tsunade: Deal with it, geez.
Homura: So are you ready Naruto? Remember that being Hokage is not anywhere near what you've done before.
Koharu: This is a job of great responsibility, not to be taken lightly. You are responsible for this village now, and your acts will be deflected upon it, both small and major.
Naruto: Yosh.
Tsunade: Geez, what is it with the two of you and always being so careful and serious. Naruto knows about all that already.
Koharu: You were always one to take your job easy slug princess, Tsunade. It's time to have a Hokage that can take it serious.
Tsunade: Humph!
Homura turned around as he grabbed the Hokage-hat that was stationed on a pillow, carried by a shinobi standing next to him. Then he proceeded.
Homura: This, together with the rest of your robe, symbolize your title as leader of this village. With it, you will claim the title of Hokage.
Naruto bent his head forward as Homura put the hat over his head. It hanged on his back by a snore that were lined from one end to the other as Naruto turned himself towards Hinata, gently handing their baby over to her, before turning his eyes towards the people again to address them.
Koharu: With this, you will now be the 6th Hokage of Konohagakure.
Naruto: ...
Hinata: You... you can do it Naruto... Your son and I are so proud of you!
Tears of joy were falling down her cheeks as Naruto smiled back at her. He then stretched his right arm out, pointing towards the crowd.
Naruto: Behold! Right here before you... stands your new Hokage!
The crowd roared out in applause as both Koharu and Homura clutched their face with their hands.
Tsunade: *Grind* Haha, I guess something never change with age nor title.
[...]
*Two Years Later*
?: So I guess this sums up the meeting?
In Suna, the kage meeting had been going on for the last two hours as Gaara was just finished with his final documents.
Naruto: *Yawn* Finally! These meetings drain my energy.
Gaara: Yeah i know, but you will get used to it soon enough. This is your first kage meeting as Hokage after all.
Mei: All meetings can't end in a battle you know. The last couple of times have been special, mostly because of the war. We haven't really had a peaceful meeting like this since at least before the Joint Shinobi Alliance was formed.
A: Yeah, and who can forget the last meeting we had at the end of the war, two years ago.
Onoki: It was really hectic having to go straight from the end of the war, to deciding Sasuke's fate.
Naruto: ...
A: So how is he holding up anyways. He hasn't been scheming anything, has he? Because he knows what I told him when we departed from Iwagakure, and he will be sorry if he does anything he shouldn't.
Naruto: Ahhh, you're worrying to much, you need to learn how to relax.
Naruto leaned himself backwards as he lifted his feet up and placed them onto the Kage table, joining his hands behind his head.
A: What did you say?!
Onoki: Calm down Raikage sama... Sasuke hasn't been up to anything. In fact, he's spent a lot of time in Iwa since that time. He's even become very good friends with my granddaughter, Kurotsuchi.
A: Well you shouldn't let him get too close, or else it might end bad for her.
Onoki: What?! I know you still view him as garbage, but he has really changed and kept true to his promises.
A: There got to be some other reason behind why you're suddenly praising him so much, Humph!
Onoki: Well maybe there is, but he's still changed.
Mei: Oh, so what other reason?
Onoki: I...
Naruto: ...
Onoki: Well the two of them are expecting children together.
A: What?!
Mei: Oh really?
Gaara: Well I guess that at least means he won't try to do something he will regret.
Shocked to hear this, Naruto fell of his chair as he crawled back up again and slammed his hands onto the table.
Naruto: Why haven't I heard of this before?! Are you for real?
Onoki: ...Yes I am.
Naruto: Hehe, I'm glad on his behalf. You better be sure to tell him that when you arrive home back in Iwa.
Onoki: Yeah I will... anyways, before we end this meeting, there is something I'd like to announce.
Gaara: Oh?
Onoki: As you all know, I've been a kage for a very long time now, and, after countless urges from my granddaughter, I've finally decided to find a successor.
Naruto: Oh really?
Mei: How great.
A: Not that we don't want you here anymore, but it was about god damn time you did old man.
Onoki: Humph! I could still have been Tsuchikage for at least a few more years... But, I feel that the time is right now.
Gaara: So who will be your successor?
Onoki: As you all know, he was the commander of the second division during the war.
Naruto: ?
A: You mean Kitsuchi?
Onoki: Yeah that's him.
Gaara: He's your son-in-law, right?
Onoki: That is also true.
Mei: So when will he take over?
Onoki: He will take over by the end of next month. So in other words, this is the last time I'll be participating in a kage meeting.
He said with a smile on his face, although you could see that he also were a little saddened by it.
Naruto: Old man...
Onoki: Don't you worry though, I have my faith in him. He's going to be a great Tsuchikage. Beside, it was about time our kage-number got closer to yours, bwuhahaha.
Naruto: Heh, still a long way to go until your village reaches my number though.
A: Humph! Having a higher number on your kage title means nothing. Being as you're the 6th Hokage, while Onoki is the 3rd Tsuchikage, can only mean that his village has been more stable and haven't switched around kages all the time.
Naruto: What?! The only reason we have had this many Hokages is because of how long our village has existed. Besides, most of the Hokages have been succeeded upon their deaths. At least they went out in a glorious way!
Pulling his tongue out to even further provoke A, Gaara had to interfere between the two of them before a battle broke out. His sand slowly retreated inside his jar as the two of them calmed down.
A: Hah, your way of boasting is just too much like your father!
Naruto: At least I don't boast without cause!
Mei: Now now, both of you, no need to argue.
Gaara: Geez... I guess Naruto got the action of this meeting as he wanted.
The rest of the kages started laughing as Naruto couldn't disagree on that one.
Naruto: Hehe, I guess you're right.
A: This is it then. If nobody else have anything to add, I guess this meeting is over.
Gaara: That's all I had to say at least.
Mei: Same here.
Naruto: Yep, guess that sums it up.
Onoki: Then it's time we all headed back to our villages. Kazekage, thanks for your hospitality.
Gaara: Always a pleasure. Thank you all for coming.
As the five kages rose from their chairs and proceeded to walk out of the meeting room, the sun in the distance fell beyond the mountain cliff as day became night.
[...]
*Three Years Later*
?: Take this, Fuuton Rasengan!
?: That's it, almost there Konohamaru!
In the outskirts of Konoha, two men were having a full fledged fight, as birds scattered in all directions.
Konohamaru: I'm not done yet Naruto kun, kage bunshin no jutus!
Naruto: Oi, hang on a minute, not so fast! We're only training after all!
Konohamaru: Hehe, I've only just begun. What, are you going to chicken out?
Naruto: What did you say?! I'm Hokage now, idiot, I would never chicken out!
Konohamaru: Gehehe, then prove it... Here I come!
Naruto: Geez... always getting over your head... Kage bunshin no jutsu!
Charging at each other with great speed, thousands of shadow clones clashed together with Fuuton Rasengans in hand. Smoke filled the scenery as a loud cracking noise came from their impact. As the smoke settled, only Konohamaru and Naruto stood standing as all of their clones had disappeared.
Naruto: You're starting to get a hang of it Konohamaru... but you still have a long way to go before you'll be able to use the Rasenshuriken. You've mastered the Fuuton Rasengan, but you still need to master Sage Mode before you'll be able to create and throw a Rasenshuriken.
Konohamaru: *pant* *pant* I know that... but I will master it, no matter what. As you can see, my Fuuton Rasengan is already stronger than yours.
Naruto: Heh, is that so? Why don't you charge up the best one you can and clash with me again. Then we'll see!
Konohamaru: Alright! Fuuton Ras...
?: Time out!
Konohamaru: Eh?!
Naruto: ...
?: Oi, Naruto-chan and Konohamaru-chan!
Naruto: Fukasaku?? What are you doing here? I didn't summon you?
Out of nowhere, Fukasaku suddenly stood beside Naruto as if summoned by him.
Fukasaku: No time to explain, the Great Honourable Geezer has summoned you for a prophecy concerning you.
Naruto: What? But I've already had my prophecy told long time ago... Isn't there suppose to be only one per person?
Fukasaku: Well this seem to be different case, just come with me, both of you.
Naruto: Alright, let's go.
In a poof of smoke, they were gone...
Fukasaku: Here we are.
Naruto: Let's go hear out the old geezer then.
Fukasaku: Wait... before that, Shima has prepared her specialty.
Konohamaru: Oh really?! How nice!
Naruto (In thoughts): Sigh, I guess you haven't tasted her specialty Konohamaru...
Shima: Naruto-chan... oh, and Konohamaru-chan too! What a nice surprise! Here, dig in!
Konohamaru: Thanks!
Naruto: Ugh...
As Naruto, Konohamaru and Fukasaku seated themselves, Shima served the dishes.
Konohamaru: Wait... what?! Bugs and worms?!
Fukasaku: What did you expect? Let's eat!
[...]
*10 minutes later*
Naruto: Great toad geezer, you have summoned me?
Great Toad Sage: Yes I have... now... I will bestow upon you, your prophecy...
Naruto: ...
Great Toad Sage: Hmm but first... Who were you again?
Naruto: Ehh?
Shima: You senile old geezer, this is Uzumaki Naruto!
Fukasaku: Shima have you gone insane?! You can't talk to him like...
Shima: Humph! He never remembers anyone or anything... He won't remember that I said this tomorrow anyways!
Fukasaku: Geez...
Great Toad Sage: Now now... Uzumaki Naruto... Hmm...
As the Great Toad Sage was making his mind up, Konohamaru leaned over to Naruto's ear and whispered something into it.
Konohamaru (Whispers): Is he always like this?
Naruto: (Whispers): I'm afraid so...
Fukasaku: Hey, no whispering under Great Honourable Geezer's prophecy!
Naruto: Ehehe, sorry.
Great Toad Sage: Hmm?!
Shima: What is it geezer?
Great Toad Sage: ... Who were you again??
Naruto, Konohamaru, Shima and Fukasaku (In Unison): Ahhhhh!
Hanging their heads in disappointment, the Great Toad Sage finally went on.
Great Toad Sage: Oh, now I remember... The young fellow beside you, Sarutobi Konohamaru?
Konohamaru: What, how do you know my name?
Great Toad Sage: This prophecy... is for both of you.
Naruto: ...
Konohamaru: What?
Fukasaku: This can't be?!
Great Toad Sage: I see... a war...
Naruto: War?! But the war has already ended five years ago?! The only ones left are Kabuto and Zetsu, and their forces were annihilated during the 4th Great Shinobi war? There is no way they can muster a force big enough to start a new war, not without Tobi and him controlling the beasts?! Does this mean that Sasuke in fact didn't manage to kill Tobi back then... and that the reports that came in through... Suigetsu's Intel after he surrendered with Sasuke... If Tobi really can move his souls from one body to another, then this must mean that he's not dead after all... !!
Great Toad Sage: This war is different... I see an isolated war. Three shinobies separated from the rest, trapped within a... hmm... Something big, that forces them to fight to the death. One man will prevail, while the two others... will die. One with a pure heart, another with an evil intent, and the third... A man who seeks redemption... This man is someone you know.
Naruto: !!
Konohamaru: Huh?! One of us will die?!... Wait, no... you meant... if this man is someone we know, someone who seeks redemption... then he will fight this man with evil intent, alongside one of us? Neither Naruto or I seeks redemption...
Naruto (In thoughts): There is no doubt... Even though Sasuke killed off Tobi's body, he managed to move his soul to another one...
Great Toad Sage: A vicious chakra emerges, that hasn't existed for a long long time... A great sacrifice that brings redemption upon this lost soul's heart, and a new... ?!
Fukasaku: What do you see Great Honourable Geezer?!
Naruto: Hang on a minute!
Great Toad Sage: This man will tie past with future and become... complete.
Konohamaru: Tie past with future?
Shima: What do you mean complete?!
Great Toad Sage: Hmm... It's unclear, but this man will then meet several people from the past, people he knows... And together move on towards the future.
Konohamaru: From the past? You mean like Edo Tensei?
Naruto (In Thoughts): So Tobi and Kabuto will rally up for a final battle... What does all of this mean?
Great Toad Sage: Meeting those from the past will call upon an important choice by this man. Then...
Fukasaku: Then what?
Naruto: Old geezer, who is this man? Is it...
Great Toad Sage: Hmm... That's all that I can see... but something else is coming into view.
Shima: What is it?
Great Toad Sage: Uzumaki Naruto... You will bring upon the period of the Three Great Toad Sages.
Naruto: The Three Great Toad Sages?
Great Toad Sage: And you will be their spiritual guide towards...
The great toad sage paused for a second, before he continued.
Great Toad Sage: ... Hmm... It's a bit unclear, but this Sarutobi kid will be the first of the three you will guide.
Naruto: Spiritual guide? What does that even mean?
Konohamaru: I will?! Then that means... I will master Sage mode!
Surprised and happy at the same time to hear this, Konohamaru started jumping around in excitement for a bit, before settling down again.
Fukasaku: Spiritual guide... the period of the Three Great Toad Sages...
Shima: Tie past and future... become complete...
Naruto: Vicious chakra that hasn't existed for a long long time... a great sacrifice, a man who seeks redemption, someone we know, making an important choice...
Konohamaru: Trapped in a battle to the death, meeting people from the past...
Everyone went silent for a bit as the Great Toad Sage concluded his prophecy.
Great Toad Sage: When the three new sages are ready, when your legacy is ready, you will be ready, Uzumaki Naruto. That is all...
Naruto: ... Ready for what? Who are the other two?
Great Toad Sage: Only time will tell... Now, I need my rest...
Fukasaku: The Great Honourable Geezer has spoken his prophecy.
Shima: What, but there got to be something else? None of this makes any sense at all...
Konohamaru: Naruto, you know what this means?
Naruto: Right... a war is approaching.
[...]
Back in Konoha, Naruto and Konohamaru went to the Hokage mansion as Kakashi, Gai, Sakura Tsunade and Shikamaru joined them. After a brief report, the seven of them started deciphering the prophecy Naruto and Konohamaru had just been foretold.
Tsunade: Geez... Looks like we haven't heard the last from Tobi and Kabuto after all.
Kakashi: It's only a matter of time before they'll return. The only question is, when will that be and how strong will their forces be? What about the seven beasts that went missing during the war. Does Tobi still have them in his possession?
Shikamaru: Either way, we need to take some precautions.
Naruto: Exactly... I think this calls for a kage meeting.
Sakura: Good thinking, I'll notify the bird tower to send out letters right away.
Naruto: Very well...
Leaving the room, Sakura headed straight for the bird tower as Naruto continued.
Naruto: I've already thought out some steps to start with... First of all, I'm thinking of reopening the Anbu root.
Tsunade: Are you serious?
Naruto: Yes, but instead of it being a stand-alone division, I was thinking of fusing it with the Anbu and selection an Anbu Leader.
Shikamaru: Not bad coming from you Naruto.
Gai: Haha, it wouldn't be the first time Naruto comes up with a good plan after he became Hokage.
Naruto: This was an idea I had in mind even before this prophecy and I already talked to Sai about it. But in the end, he politely declined the job, so I was hoping you would take the job, Konohamaru?
Konohamaru: Wha... me? But I don't have any experience with the anbu?
Naruto: Well you don't have to if you don't want to, but both Sai and Yamato has volunteered as support, being as their experience with the Anbu and the Anbu root organization are quite exceptional. They should be able to give you some good advises. Besides, you will be working closely with me.
Konohamaru: Well I guess I can't refuse then.
Naruto: Then it's settled... Moving on, I was thinking of putting together a personal defense squad.
Kakashi: A defense squad?
Naruto: Yes, two six-man-teams consisting of Sakura, Sai, Shino, Neji, Rock Lee and I, together with Konohamaru, Shikamaru, Tsunade, Yamato, Kakashi and Gai as backup.
Kakashi: Sounds like a plan.
Naruto: Alright, we'll discuss things further as soon as the rest of the kages arrives later today. In addition to Shikamaru and Tsunade, I would like you to attend the meeting as well, Konohamaru.
Konohamaru: Right.
[...]
*Later that day*
On the other side of Konoha, while the Kage meeting was under way, Kakashi had went to meet with Yugao Uzuki.
Kakashi: You wanted to talk?
Yugao: Yes... I...
Kakashi: Maybe we should sit down?
Kakashi and Yugao proceeded to a bench that was nearby as they both sat down.
Yugao: Kakashi... You know, time goes by and we're not exactly getting any younger.
Kakashi: What do you mean?
Yugao: Well over the past weeks we've been going out, I think... no I have...
Not able to get out what she wanted to say, Kakashi interrupted her.
Kakashi: I think I know what you mean.
Yugao: You do?
Kakashi: Well ever since Gai got married last year, I've kind off been the last one not to... ehehehe...
He said as he scratched the backside of his head.
Kakashi: Well what I'm trying to say is that It's mutual.
Yugao: !! So you're feeling the same?
Kakashi: Yes. I've known you for years now, ever since we both were in the anbu and...
As Kakashi spoke, Yugao laid her finger on his mouth, telling him to be quiet, as her finger slowly, but gently proceeded to slide down his mask, exposing the rest of his face. She leaned over to him as an intense and passionate kiss followed.
[...]
Kitsuchi: Then this settles it, we will have to tighten security in the villages and around the boarders. I expect full cooperation from all of you.
A: Right.
Mei: As much as these security upgrades seem reassuring, I just can't help shake this feeling off that we will just have to wait for them to strike, without being able to do anything about it. Our search squadron has been looking high and low for the past five years, but still nothing.
Gaara: Hmm...
Naruto: Yeah, but if this prophecy turns out to be true, we better be as ready as we can.
Kitsuchi: I see in the latest report that you made this month, Naruto, that Konoha has been thinking of upgrading the school system? Taking everything we've learned into consideration, I don't think that's a bad idea. Care to elaborate some on how it will work?
Reaching out for the document, Naruto shared his thoughts on the matter.
Naruto: Well it's quite simple really, as of now we have the shinobi academy, where young shinobies graduated to Genins, before having a test with a sensei to see if they're really ready for it. Then they train in a three-man squad with their sensei guiding them, going on missions and such, before eventually taking on bigger tasks, like the Chunin exam, and so on...
A: ...
Mei: Go on.
Naruto: Shikamaru and I have been working on a system to get the best out of each student's ability before, meanwhile and after they graduate. We call it the three academies of genjutsu, taijutsu and ninjutsu, with each one specializing in the different genre. We're already in the try-out period and Hatake Kakashi, Maito Gai and Yühi Kurenai have been selected as the academy teachers...
Shikamaru: The point is that each shinobi can learn their specialty as fast as possible, with the students attending classes before they become genins, when they're training with a sensei and later on. A student will either focus on one class, or attend them all.
Kitsuchi: I see...
Mei: So is this really necessary? Will it help the students or take away their focus from training with their three-man squad and their sensei?
Shikamaru: Like Naruto said, it's in the try-out stage yet, so we won't know before at least a two months' time, whether it will have a good effect or not.
Tsunade: If you want, we could give you copies of the schematics of the system?
Kitsuchi: We'll look into it and maybe do some testing of our own.
Naruto: Sure.
Mei: Hmm... If it actually works, this might prove useful for both the alliance and for preparing new shinobies the best way possible.
Gaara: Agreed, this seems like a good setup, coming from Shikamaru and Naruto... Raikage, you've been surprisingly silent about the matter. Normally you go against anything Naruto says.
A: Humph! For once I actually agree with Naruto, this system looks to be a huge improvement, especially since Shikamaru stands behind it as well.
Killerbee: A is okay with what Naruto said, looks to me like their disagreement is dead. I will have to nod with my head as Naruto is way ahead, yeah!
A: I guess this sums up everything then.
Gaara: Looks like it.
Mei: Then we'll stay on alert for any intel regarding Tobi or Kabuto.
Kitsuchi: Right.
Naruto: Thanks for being able to respond to my call this fast, have a safe trip ho....
A: Before we go, there is something I'd like to announce.
Gaara: ?
Getting up from his chair, A walked over to the window and looked outside as some leaves flew by. He then turned around and slowly removed his kage-hat as he approached the exit, before halting beside where Killerbee were seated.
A: Ever since Onoki retired as kage, I've been thinking through a couple of things... After some back and forth, I've decided to step down.
Mei: What?! Why?
A: No special reason... Without further ado, here's the new raikage.
Pressing the kage-hat towards Killerbee's chest before letting go of it, A went out the door.
Killerbee: ?!
Naruto: Aha! Congrats Bee!
Killerbee: I..
Confused on what just happened, Killerbee stood up from his chair. Bidding the rest goodbye, he, together with the rest of the Kumo escort, quickly followed after A.
Gaara: I had no idea he wanted to retire?
Kitsuchi: Hmm... Maybe his arm injury is worse than he initially thought...
Mei: Or maybe he just wanted to hand over the job to Killerbee... Either way, I guess this concludes this meeting, thanks for the hospitality Naruto, Shikamaru, Tsunade...
Nodding in agreement, the rest of the kages got up from their chairs as the meeting came to an end.
Additional note: For those who didn't get the order of things, everything that happened in the past in this chapter, took place before the Chunin and Jonin exams in chapter 1. Let me know if you're still wondering about something.
Fun fact: The Kakashi x Yugao scene was written over a year ago.
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Series, Previous Chapters [In Chronological Reading Order]:
The Legendary Sage of Konoha;
--->
--->
--->
Sasuke Chronicles;
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns;
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Kakashi Chronicles;
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Sasuke Chronicles;
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The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns;
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The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns, Chapter 2:
Memory of The Past
~ Part 2
Night had fallen across Konoha as the clock was slowly ticking towards 10 pm. In a house, someplace in the center of the village, a door went up and man, not too old of age, angrily walked inside, with his father and mother right behind him.
Minato: This is so ridicules! Why does aunt Kushina have to live in the sand village?!
Jiraiya: Minato calm down, we've already talked about this. Nothing to get this upset for.
Minato: I rarely see her because of it, and now that's she's pregnant, it's even more stupid than ever! It would be so cool to get to know and watch that kid grow up. I always wanted a little brother or sister, and now that I'll finally get a cousin, he or she will live halfway across the world, and I'll barely see them.
Miyuki: Your father is right, you can't always have family close to you. Besides, it's not that far to Suna, we could always pay them a visit.
Minato: Yeah, but with dad being Hokage and all, it's not like we can just walk out of the village and visit other places without doing all sorts of preparations and routines. It's always a mess!
Jiraiya: Like your mother just said, not everyone close to you can live around you all the time. And when two people from different villages meet up and falls in love, one of them will have to move, simple as that. Like Mito's mother, Temari; she moved here to Konoha instead of Shikamaru moving to Suna. And let's not forget about your mother, she moved here from Iwa.
Minato: But still... I had such a great time tonight! Everyone from the whole family was there, even Gaara... It would have been great to be able to see them more than three or four times a year. Besides mom, it wasn't like you moved here all by yourself, your whole family moved here together. The only family member who stayed behind was my great great grandfather, Onoki.
Miyuki: You're right about that, but I still had to adapt to a new village.
And if we hadn't moved here, I would never have met your father in the first place.
She said with a smile on her face as her hand joined with Jiraiya's.
Minato: ... True that, but... Ebizö could have moved here.
Refusing to come to sense, Minato still pressed the matter.
Jiraiya: No more ifs and buts, there's no reason to make a fuss over something like this. Besides, it's usually the woman who moves and not the man. You can't blame Ebizö. Kushina even wanted to move... Not because she didn't like it here, but because it was a totally new experience for her.
Miyuki: I know it might feel a bit different, being as she moved there only two years ago, but as time goes by, you will get more and more used to it.
Minato: Yeah I know... But I'm still finding it ridicules.
Jiraiya: I know how you feel on the subject son, but it's not like there's anything you can do about it.
Minato: Hah, you watch me! When I become kage someday, I'm going to make all of the villages come together as one country... and then, we won't have to bother with all the clearances and arrangements every time we're going to leave a village to visit another!
Jiraiya: Haha, you mean if... if you become Hokage one day son. You will have to surpass me first!
Jiraiya and Miyuki started laughing as Minato responded with a smirk on his face and said something that caught both his father and mother off guard.
Minato: Who said anything about becoming Hokage? Heh, you can keep the title dad, as I'm going to become sekaiteki-kage (Global shadow)! Just like...
Jiraiya: Heh, if you want to become sekaiteki-kage, you will have to beat me to it first!
Minato: Beating you won't be a problem!
Responding to Minato's mockery, Jiraiya fell right for his taunt.
Jiraiya: Fool! You think you have what it takes to surpass me already?!
Minato: You just wait and see dad, that's a promise!
Jiraiya: Haha, I'll keep you to it son.
He said as he rubbed his son's spiky blond hair.
Jiraiya: You know, with the spirit you show on the matter, you kind of remind me of how I was at your age. It's not like I always were this calm minded. I used to tease your grandfather a lot to get his attention.
A smile formed on his face as he reminisced the old days.
Minato: Yeah I bet... anyways, I'm off to bed now as it's getting late. See you guys tomorrow... Good night.
Miyuki: Yeah, sleep well.
Jiraiya: And don't forget to wake up in time for your training with your teammates and your sensei.
Minato: Of course I'll remember! Who do you think I am?
He said as he went into his room, slowly closing the door behind him.
Jiraiya: Sigh, what is there to be done with that kid...
Miyuki: Easy now... Here, sit down and clear your thoughts while I get you something to drink.
As she went out to the kitchen, Jiraiya laid down on the couch as he lifted his feet up and placed them on top of the table in front of him. He then intertwined his hands behind his head, thinking about the matter.
Miyuki: Here, take this.
Handing him a glass of water, Miyuki then sat down on the couch beside him. She slowly laid down and rested her head on his chest as he began to slowly brush her dark long hair with his left hand.
Miyuki: You know... He's right about one thing.
Jiraiya: Hmm...?
Miyuki: The whole family meeting up like this happens too rarely. We should get together like this more often.
Jiraiya: Yeah I suppose you're right, but it's not like everyone in the family has the time for this sort of gathering every week. I mean, it's not like we're some common family, now are we?
Jiraiya slowly took as sip of his glass with his right hand as he continued.
Jiraiya: Most of us have high ranking jobs, and just leaving the village takes time and planning. I didn't even think that Gaara would have time to come here today just for a birthday party.
Miyuki: Well your sister is surely a kind-hearted girl, so it's easy to get close to her.
She said as she moved to get even closer to Jiraiya. He followed up by kissing her forehead as the clock was closing in on midnight.
Jiraiya: What time is it anyways?... Oh, it's this late already.
Miyuki: Well yeah, this birthday party nearly took the whole day.
Jiraiya: Hmm... When I think about it, there's something I should take care of at the office before I go to bed.
Miyuki: You mean, like now?! Can't it wait until tomorrow?
She got up as she sat down on his lap, with her face toward his, trying to convince him to stall the work until the next day.
Jiraiya: Well I... I was suppose to get it done by today...
She crossed her arms around his neck as she leaned her head forward, closer to his, and kissed him passionately.
Jiraiya: I... If you put it that way... I guess it can wait.
Jiraiya put his glass of water down on the table and lifted her up in his arms. He carried her pass the living room and straight to their bedroom as the door closed behind them. Laying her gently down on their bed, he then pulled his shirt off as he began kissing her mouth, chin and neck with great affection. She rolled him over and got on top of him as she slowly began pulling her shirt off...
[...]
The sun stood high over Konoha as a ceremony on top of the Hokage mansion was just about to begin.
?: So this is it huh?
?: Yep, it seems that way Kiba.
Kiba: To think that the time has finally come.. It still seems a bit weird, Shino.
Shino: Who else would you have up there if not Naruto? He's...
Kiba: I guess Shikamaru could have been a good option too though.
?: You're right about that, but after all he did in the war, and the leadership he's shown, I guess Naruto's a good match for the position now.
Kiba: Heh, I guess you're right Choji.
Choji: Besides, I think Shikamaru will be better suited as an adviser to Naruto than the other way around. Shikamaru is way too lazy for being Hokage.
Kiba: Haha, I guess you're right.
?: So this is where you guys are!
Shino: Ino, Sakura, Tenten.
Ino: I guess everyone is getting ready, huh?
Tenten: Well, I still think we should have been allowed to stand up there with the rest, not here on the ground with the other civilians.
Sakura: There's no reason to make the place too crowded up there. Besides, it's only suppose to be Tsunade sama, Shikamaru, Kakashi, Gai, Hinata and the two elders up there.
Tenten: I guess you're right.
Ino: Look! There's Sai!
Sakura: ... And Lee, Neji and Temari too.
Ino: I'm going to head over there and talk with him.
Tenten: You sure aren't letting this one go, are you?
Sakura: *Giggle*... you know how she feels for him.
Ino: Hush!... Don't let him hear you!
Kiba: Haha, you should head over there now while you have the chance.
Ino: Humph!... I will, don't worry.
Sakura: Then what are you waiting for?
Ino: Alright, I'll head over there and talk to him.
She said as she grabbed Sakura's hand, dragging her with her over to the rest.
Shino: And there she goes, trying to...
Kiba: You think she will get his attention now?
Choji: Who knows... Hey Kiba, what's up with you and Tenten anyway?
Kiba: Ehhh?!
Tenten: !!
Taken completely off guard by Choji's question, both of them blushed and didn't know what answer to come up with.
Kiba: Ehm.. we... we've been..
Tenten: Dating, nothing more!
Shino: If you say so. Looks more like you're...
Choji: Look, something is happening up there now!
He said as he opened up another bag of chips, throwing the empty one away.
Tenten: I can't wait!
Shino (In thoughts): Why do they always interrupt me when I'm talking...
Rock Lee: I can't believe it's only been two days since Naruto and the rest returned from the kage meeting in Iwa, and now he's becoming Hokage... It's only like a week ago since the war ended. [Note - See Sasuke Chronicles 2]
Sai: I thought that since Sasuke got his name cleared after the meeting, he would return to Konoha?
Sakura: Well he decided to stay in Iwa as he thought it was a bit prematurely to return to Konoha now, and the Tsuchikage accepted that.
Ino: ...
Temari: Oh well, it can't be helped.
Neji: ...At least the war is finaly over now...
On top of the Hokage mansion, the two elders stood ready as Naruto walked in with Hinata and their baby in hand, while Shikamaru and Tsunade quickly followed. By the staircase, Gai and Kakashi watched closely as Naruto approached the handrail.
Gai: Who would have thought that we would see this day Kakashi... This is the third time we participate in such a ceremony, since Hiruzen Sarutobi was Hokage. To think that time has flown by so fast, and yet here we stand. The war is finally over, and Naruto is about to take position as the 6th Hokage. We're getting older and older while the next generation flourishes beside us. What are we going to do Kakashi?
Kakashi: ...
Gai: ...
Kakashi: Huh, did you say something?
Gai: What?! You weren't listening to what I said at all?!
Clearly disappointed after such a speech went unheard, Gai lowered his head in shame.
Gai: Uhh....
Kakashi (In Thoughts): Seeing Naruto like this... Damn it takes me back. This is just like when Minato became the 4th Hokage, it's like history repeating itself.
Gai: What's on your mind?
Kakashi: Doesn't Naruto remind you of someone right now?
Gai: Huh?... Well... Now that you mention it. He's almost identical to his father with the Hokage robe on.
Kakashi: Mhm...
Tsunade: So Naruto, this is it. Ready to address the people for the first time as Hokage? This is what you always dreamt of isn't it?
Naruto: Hehe, yeah...
Tsunade (In thought): Nawaki... Dan... The time has finally arrived. Naruto's dream... your dream...
Shikamaru: Geez... So many people down there. I don't know if I like being this much in the spotlight.
Naruto: Well you'll be my adviser, alongside Tsunade, after all, so the people will have to get to know you too, sooner or later.
Shikamaru: Yeah I guess. But I still find it troublesome to be shown off like this.
Tsunade: Deal with it, geez.
Homura: So are you ready Naruto? Remember that being Hokage is not anywhere near what you've done before.
Koharu: This is a job of great responsibility, not to be taken lightly. You are responsible for this village now, and your acts will be deflected upon it, both small and major.
Naruto: Yosh.
Tsunade: Geez, what is it with the two of you and always being so careful and serious. Naruto knows about all that already.
Koharu: You were always one to take your job easy slug princess, Tsunade. It's time to have a Hokage that can take it serious.
Tsunade: Humph!
Homura turned around as he grabbed the Hokage-hat that was stationed on a pillow, carried by a shinobi standing next to him. Then he proceeded.
Homura: This, together with the rest of your robe, symbolize your title as leader of this village. With it, you will claim the title of Hokage.
Naruto bent his head forward as Homura put the hat over his head. It hanged on his back by a snore that were lined from one end to the other as Naruto turned himself towards Hinata, gently handing their baby over to her, before turning his eyes towards the people again to address them.
Koharu: With this, you will now be the 6th Hokage of Konohagakure.
Naruto: ...
Hinata: You... you can do it Naruto... Your son and I are so proud of you!
Tears of joy were falling down her cheeks as Naruto smiled back at her. He then stretched his right arm out, pointing towards the crowd.
Naruto: Behold! Right here before you... stands your new Hokage!
The crowd roared out in applause as both Koharu and Homura clutched their face with their hands.
Tsunade: *Grind* Haha, I guess something never change with age nor title.
[...]
*Two Years Later*
?: So I guess this sums up the meeting?
In Suna, the kage meeting had been going on for the last two hours as Gaara was just finished with his final documents.
Naruto: *Yawn* Finally! These meetings drain my energy.
Gaara: Yeah i know, but you will get used to it soon enough. This is your first kage meeting as Hokage after all.
Mei: All meetings can't end in a battle you know. The last couple of times have been special, mostly because of the war. We haven't really had a peaceful meeting like this since at least before the Joint Shinobi Alliance was formed.
A: Yeah, and who can forget the last meeting we had at the end of the war, two years ago.
Onoki: It was really hectic having to go straight from the end of the war, to deciding Sasuke's fate.
Naruto: ...
A: So how is he holding up anyways. He hasn't been scheming anything, has he? Because he knows what I told him when we departed from Iwagakure, and he will be sorry if he does anything he shouldn't.
Naruto: Ahhh, you're worrying to much, you need to learn how to relax.
Naruto leaned himself backwards as he lifted his feet up and placed them onto the Kage table, joining his hands behind his head.
A: What did you say?!
Onoki: Calm down Raikage sama... Sasuke hasn't been up to anything. In fact, he's spent a lot of time in Iwa since that time. He's even become very good friends with my granddaughter, Kurotsuchi.
A: Well you shouldn't let him get too close, or else it might end bad for her.
Onoki: What?! I know you still view him as garbage, but he has really changed and kept true to his promises.
A: There got to be some other reason behind why you're suddenly praising him so much, Humph!
Onoki: Well maybe there is, but he's still changed.
Mei: Oh, so what other reason?
Onoki: I...
Naruto: ...
Onoki: Well the two of them are expecting children together.
A: What?!
Mei: Oh really?
Gaara: Well I guess that at least means he won't try to do something he will regret.
Shocked to hear this, Naruto fell of his chair as he crawled back up again and slammed his hands onto the table.
Naruto: Why haven't I heard of this before?! Are you for real?
Onoki: ...Yes I am.
Naruto: Hehe, I'm glad on his behalf. You better be sure to tell him that when you arrive home back in Iwa.
Onoki: Yeah I will... anyways, before we end this meeting, there is something I'd like to announce.
Gaara: Oh?
Onoki: As you all know, I've been a kage for a very long time now, and, after countless urges from my granddaughter, I've finally decided to find a successor.
Naruto: Oh really?
Mei: How great.
A: Not that we don't want you here anymore, but it was about god damn time you did old man.
Onoki: Humph! I could still have been Tsuchikage for at least a few more years... But, I feel that the time is right now.
Gaara: So who will be your successor?
Onoki: As you all know, he was the commander of the second division during the war.
Naruto: ?
A: You mean Kitsuchi?
Onoki: Yeah that's him.
Gaara: He's your son-in-law, right?
Onoki: That is also true.
Mei: So when will he take over?
Onoki: He will take over by the end of next month. So in other words, this is the last time I'll be participating in a kage meeting.
He said with a smile on his face, although you could see that he also were a little saddened by it.
Naruto: Old man...
Onoki: Don't you worry though, I have my faith in him. He's going to be a great Tsuchikage. Beside, it was about time our kage-number got closer to yours, bwuhahaha.
Naruto: Heh, still a long way to go until your village reaches my number though.
A: Humph! Having a higher number on your kage title means nothing. Being as you're the 6th Hokage, while Onoki is the 3rd Tsuchikage, can only mean that his village has been more stable and haven't switched around kages all the time.
Naruto: What?! The only reason we have had this many Hokages is because of how long our village has existed. Besides, most of the Hokages have been succeeded upon their deaths. At least they went out in a glorious way!
Pulling his tongue out to even further provoke A, Gaara had to interfere between the two of them before a battle broke out. His sand slowly retreated inside his jar as the two of them calmed down.
A: Hah, your way of boasting is just too much like your father!
Naruto: At least I don't boast without cause!
Mei: Now now, both of you, no need to argue.
Gaara: Geez... I guess Naruto got the action of this meeting as he wanted.
The rest of the kages started laughing as Naruto couldn't disagree on that one.
Naruto: Hehe, I guess you're right.
A: This is it then. If nobody else have anything to add, I guess this meeting is over.
Gaara: That's all I had to say at least.
Mei: Same here.
Naruto: Yep, guess that sums it up.
Onoki: Then it's time we all headed back to our villages. Kazekage, thanks for your hospitality.
Gaara: Always a pleasure. Thank you all for coming.
As the five kages rose from their chairs and proceeded to walk out of the meeting room, the sun in the distance fell beyond the mountain cliff as day became night.
[...]
*Three Years Later*
?: Take this, Fuuton Rasengan!
?: That's it, almost there Konohamaru!
In the outskirts of Konoha, two men were having a full fledged fight, as birds scattered in all directions.
Konohamaru: I'm not done yet Naruto kun, kage bunshin no jutus!
Naruto: Oi, hang on a minute, not so fast! We're only training after all!
Konohamaru: Hehe, I've only just begun. What, are you going to chicken out?
Naruto: What did you say?! I'm Hokage now, idiot, I would never chicken out!
Konohamaru: Gehehe, then prove it... Here I come!
Naruto: Geez... always getting over your head... Kage bunshin no jutsu!
Charging at each other with great speed, thousands of shadow clones clashed together with Fuuton Rasengans in hand. Smoke filled the scenery as a loud cracking noise came from their impact. As the smoke settled, only Konohamaru and Naruto stood standing as all of their clones had disappeared.
Naruto: You're starting to get a hang of it Konohamaru... but you still have a long way to go before you'll be able to use the Rasenshuriken. You've mastered the Fuuton Rasengan, but you still need to master Sage Mode before you'll be able to create and throw a Rasenshuriken.
Konohamaru: *pant* *pant* I know that... but I will master it, no matter what. As you can see, my Fuuton Rasengan is already stronger than yours.
Naruto: Heh, is that so? Why don't you charge up the best one you can and clash with me again. Then we'll see!
Konohamaru: Alright! Fuuton Ras...
?: Time out!
Konohamaru: Eh?!
Naruto: ...
?: Oi, Naruto-chan and Konohamaru-chan!
Naruto: Fukasaku?? What are you doing here? I didn't summon you?
Out of nowhere, Fukasaku suddenly stood beside Naruto as if summoned by him.
Fukasaku: No time to explain, the Great Honourable Geezer has summoned you for a prophecy concerning you.
Naruto: What? But I've already had my prophecy told long time ago... Isn't there suppose to be only one per person?
Fukasaku: Well this seem to be different case, just come with me, both of you.
Naruto: Alright, let's go.
In a poof of smoke, they were gone...
Fukasaku: Here we are.
Naruto: Let's go hear out the old geezer then.
Fukasaku: Wait... before that, Shima has prepared her specialty.
Konohamaru: Oh really?! How nice!
Naruto (In thoughts): Sigh, I guess you haven't tasted her specialty Konohamaru...
Shima: Naruto-chan... oh, and Konohamaru-chan too! What a nice surprise! Here, dig in!
Konohamaru: Thanks!
Naruto: Ugh...
As Naruto, Konohamaru and Fukasaku seated themselves, Shima served the dishes.
Konohamaru: Wait... what?! Bugs and worms?!
Fukasaku: What did you expect? Let's eat!
[...]
*10 minutes later*
Naruto: Great toad geezer, you have summoned me?
Great Toad Sage: Yes I have... now... I will bestow upon you, your prophecy...
Naruto: ...
Great Toad Sage: Hmm but first... Who were you again?
Naruto: Ehh?
Shima: You senile old geezer, this is Uzumaki Naruto!
Fukasaku: Shima have you gone insane?! You can't talk to him like...
Shima: Humph! He never remembers anyone or anything... He won't remember that I said this tomorrow anyways!
Fukasaku: Geez...
Great Toad Sage: Now now... Uzumaki Naruto... Hmm...
As the Great Toad Sage was making his mind up, Konohamaru leaned over to Naruto's ear and whispered something into it.
Konohamaru (Whispers): Is he always like this?
Naruto: (Whispers): I'm afraid so...
Fukasaku: Hey, no whispering under Great Honourable Geezer's prophecy!
Naruto: Ehehe, sorry.
Great Toad Sage: Hmm?!
Shima: What is it geezer?
Great Toad Sage: ... Who were you again??
Naruto, Konohamaru, Shima and Fukasaku (In Unison): Ahhhhh!
Hanging their heads in disappointment, the Great Toad Sage finally went on.
Great Toad Sage: Oh, now I remember... The young fellow beside you, Sarutobi Konohamaru?
Konohamaru: What, how do you know my name?
Great Toad Sage: This prophecy... is for both of you.
Naruto: ...
Konohamaru: What?
Fukasaku: This can't be?!
Great Toad Sage: I see... a war...
Naruto: War?! But the war has already ended five years ago?! The only ones left are Kabuto and Zetsu, and their forces were annihilated during the 4th Great Shinobi war? There is no way they can muster a force big enough to start a new war, not without Tobi and him controlling the beasts?! Does this mean that Sasuke in fact didn't manage to kill Tobi back then... and that the reports that came in through... Suigetsu's Intel after he surrendered with Sasuke... If Tobi really can move his souls from one body to another, then this must mean that he's not dead after all... !!
Great Toad Sage: This war is different... I see an isolated war. Three shinobies separated from the rest, trapped within a... hmm... Something big, that forces them to fight to the death. One man will prevail, while the two others... will die. One with a pure heart, another with an evil intent, and the third... A man who seeks redemption... This man is someone you know.
Naruto: !!
Konohamaru: Huh?! One of us will die?!... Wait, no... you meant... if this man is someone we know, someone who seeks redemption... then he will fight this man with evil intent, alongside one of us? Neither Naruto or I seeks redemption...
Naruto (In thoughts): There is no doubt... Even though Sasuke killed off Tobi's body, he managed to move his soul to another one...
Great Toad Sage: A vicious chakra emerges, that hasn't existed for a long long time... A great sacrifice that brings redemption upon this lost soul's heart, and a new... ?!
Fukasaku: What do you see Great Honourable Geezer?!
Naruto: Hang on a minute!
Great Toad Sage: This man will tie past with future and become... complete.
Konohamaru: Tie past with future?
Shima: What do you mean complete?!
Great Toad Sage: Hmm... It's unclear, but this man will then meet several people from the past, people he knows... And together move on towards the future.
Konohamaru: From the past? You mean like Edo Tensei?
Naruto (In Thoughts): So Tobi and Kabuto will rally up for a final battle... What does all of this mean?
Great Toad Sage: Meeting those from the past will call upon an important choice by this man. Then...
Fukasaku: Then what?
Naruto: Old geezer, who is this man? Is it...
Great Toad Sage: Hmm... That's all that I can see... but something else is coming into view.
Shima: What is it?
Great Toad Sage: Uzumaki Naruto... You will bring upon the period of the Three Great Toad Sages.
Naruto: The Three Great Toad Sages?
Great Toad Sage: And you will be their spiritual guide towards...
The great toad sage paused for a second, before he continued.
Great Toad Sage: ... Hmm... It's a bit unclear, but this Sarutobi kid will be the first of the three you will guide.
Naruto: Spiritual guide? What does that even mean?
Konohamaru: I will?! Then that means... I will master Sage mode!
Surprised and happy at the same time to hear this, Konohamaru started jumping around in excitement for a bit, before settling down again.
Fukasaku: Spiritual guide... the period of the Three Great Toad Sages...
Shima: Tie past and future... become complete...
Naruto: Vicious chakra that hasn't existed for a long long time... a great sacrifice, a man who seeks redemption, someone we know, making an important choice...
Konohamaru: Trapped in a battle to the death, meeting people from the past...
Everyone went silent for a bit as the Great Toad Sage concluded his prophecy.
Great Toad Sage: When the three new sages are ready, when your legacy is ready, you will be ready, Uzumaki Naruto. That is all...
Naruto: ... Ready for what? Who are the other two?
Great Toad Sage: Only time will tell... Now, I need my rest...
Fukasaku: The Great Honourable Geezer has spoken his prophecy.
Shima: What, but there got to be something else? None of this makes any sense at all...
Konohamaru: Naruto, you know what this means?
Naruto: Right... a war is approaching.
[...]
Back in Konoha, Naruto and Konohamaru went to the Hokage mansion as Kakashi, Gai, Sakura Tsunade and Shikamaru joined them. After a brief report, the seven of them started deciphering the prophecy Naruto and Konohamaru had just been foretold.
Tsunade: Geez... Looks like we haven't heard the last from Tobi and Kabuto after all.
Kakashi: It's only a matter of time before they'll return. The only question is, when will that be and how strong will their forces be? What about the seven beasts that went missing during the war. Does Tobi still have them in his possession?
Shikamaru: Either way, we need to take some precautions.
Naruto: Exactly... I think this calls for a kage meeting.
Sakura: Good thinking, I'll notify the bird tower to send out letters right away.
Naruto: Very well...
Leaving the room, Sakura headed straight for the bird tower as Naruto continued.
Naruto: I've already thought out some steps to start with... First of all, I'm thinking of reopening the Anbu root.
Tsunade: Are you serious?
Naruto: Yes, but instead of it being a stand-alone division, I was thinking of fusing it with the Anbu and selection an Anbu Leader.
Shikamaru: Not bad coming from you Naruto.
Gai: Haha, it wouldn't be the first time Naruto comes up with a good plan after he became Hokage.
Naruto: This was an idea I had in mind even before this prophecy and I already talked to Sai about it. But in the end, he politely declined the job, so I was hoping you would take the job, Konohamaru?
Konohamaru: Wha... me? But I don't have any experience with the anbu?
Naruto: Well you don't have to if you don't want to, but both Sai and Yamato has volunteered as support, being as their experience with the Anbu and the Anbu root organization are quite exceptional. They should be able to give you some good advises. Besides, you will be working closely with me.
Konohamaru: Well I guess I can't refuse then.
Naruto: Then it's settled... Moving on, I was thinking of putting together a personal defense squad.
Kakashi: A defense squad?
Naruto: Yes, two six-man-teams consisting of Sakura, Sai, Shino, Neji, Rock Lee and I, together with Konohamaru, Shikamaru, Tsunade, Yamato, Kakashi and Gai as backup.
Kakashi: Sounds like a plan.
Naruto: Alright, we'll discuss things further as soon as the rest of the kages arrives later today. In addition to Shikamaru and Tsunade, I would like you to attend the meeting as well, Konohamaru.
Konohamaru: Right.
[...]
*Later that day*
On the other side of Konoha, while the Kage meeting was under way, Kakashi had went to meet with Yugao Uzuki.
Kakashi: You wanted to talk?
Yugao: Yes... I...
Kakashi: Maybe we should sit down?
Kakashi and Yugao proceeded to a bench that was nearby as they both sat down.
Yugao: Kakashi... You know, time goes by and we're not exactly getting any younger.
Kakashi: What do you mean?
Yugao: Well over the past weeks we've been going out, I think... no I have...
Not able to get out what she wanted to say, Kakashi interrupted her.
Kakashi: I think I know what you mean.
Yugao: You do?
Kakashi: Well ever since Gai got married last year, I've kind off been the last one not to... ehehehe...
He said as he scratched the backside of his head.
Kakashi: Well what I'm trying to say is that It's mutual.
Yugao: !! So you're feeling the same?
Kakashi: Yes. I've known you for years now, ever since we both were in the anbu and...
As Kakashi spoke, Yugao laid her finger on his mouth, telling him to be quiet, as her finger slowly, but gently proceeded to slide down his mask, exposing the rest of his face. She leaned over to him as an intense and passionate kiss followed.
[...]
Kitsuchi: Then this settles it, we will have to tighten security in the villages and around the boarders. I expect full cooperation from all of you.
A: Right.
Mei: As much as these security upgrades seem reassuring, I just can't help shake this feeling off that we will just have to wait for them to strike, without being able to do anything about it. Our search squadron has been looking high and low for the past five years, but still nothing.
Gaara: Hmm...
Naruto: Yeah, but if this prophecy turns out to be true, we better be as ready as we can.
Kitsuchi: I see in the latest report that you made this month, Naruto, that Konoha has been thinking of upgrading the school system? Taking everything we've learned into consideration, I don't think that's a bad idea. Care to elaborate some on how it will work?
Reaching out for the document, Naruto shared his thoughts on the matter.
Naruto: Well it's quite simple really, as of now we have the shinobi academy, where young shinobies graduated to Genins, before having a test with a sensei to see if they're really ready for it. Then they train in a three-man squad with their sensei guiding them, going on missions and such, before eventually taking on bigger tasks, like the Chunin exam, and so on...
A: ...
Mei: Go on.
Naruto: Shikamaru and I have been working on a system to get the best out of each student's ability before, meanwhile and after they graduate. We call it the three academies of genjutsu, taijutsu and ninjutsu, with each one specializing in the different genre. We're already in the try-out period and Hatake Kakashi, Maito Gai and Yühi Kurenai have been selected as the academy teachers...
Shikamaru: The point is that each shinobi can learn their specialty as fast as possible, with the students attending classes before they become genins, when they're training with a sensei and later on. A student will either focus on one class, or attend them all.
Kitsuchi: I see...
Mei: So is this really necessary? Will it help the students or take away their focus from training with their three-man squad and their sensei?
Shikamaru: Like Naruto said, it's in the try-out stage yet, so we won't know before at least a two months' time, whether it will have a good effect or not.
Tsunade: If you want, we could give you copies of the schematics of the system?
Kitsuchi: We'll look into it and maybe do some testing of our own.
Naruto: Sure.
Mei: Hmm... If it actually works, this might prove useful for both the alliance and for preparing new shinobies the best way possible.
Gaara: Agreed, this seems like a good setup, coming from Shikamaru and Naruto... Raikage, you've been surprisingly silent about the matter. Normally you go against anything Naruto says.
A: Humph! For once I actually agree with Naruto, this system looks to be a huge improvement, especially since Shikamaru stands behind it as well.
Killerbee: A is okay with what Naruto said, looks to me like their disagreement is dead. I will have to nod with my head as Naruto is way ahead, yeah!
A: I guess this sums up everything then.
Gaara: Looks like it.
Mei: Then we'll stay on alert for any intel regarding Tobi or Kabuto.
Kitsuchi: Right.
Naruto: Thanks for being able to respond to my call this fast, have a safe trip ho....
A: Before we go, there is something I'd like to announce.
Gaara: ?
Getting up from his chair, A walked over to the window and looked outside as some leaves flew by. He then turned around and slowly removed his kage-hat as he approached the exit, before halting beside where Killerbee were seated.
A: Ever since Onoki retired as kage, I've been thinking through a couple of things... After some back and forth, I've decided to step down.
Mei: What?! Why?
A: No special reason... Without further ado, here's the new raikage.
Pressing the kage-hat towards Killerbee's chest before letting go of it, A went out the door.
Killerbee: ?!
Naruto: Aha! Congrats Bee!
Killerbee: I..
Confused on what just happened, Killerbee stood up from his chair. Bidding the rest goodbye, he, together with the rest of the Kumo escort, quickly followed after A.
Gaara: I had no idea he wanted to retire?
Kitsuchi: Hmm... Maybe his arm injury is worse than he initially thought...
Mei: Or maybe he just wanted to hand over the job to Killerbee... Either way, I guess this concludes this meeting, thanks for the hospitality Naruto, Shikamaru, Tsunade...
Nodding in agreement, the rest of the kages got up from their chairs as the meeting came to an end.
~ End Chapter 2
Naruto and Sasuke vs Tobi continues next chapter!
Additional note: For those who didn't get the order of things, everything that happened in the past in this chapter, took place before the Chunin and Jonin exams in chapter 1. Let me know if you're still wondering about something.
Fun fact: The Kakashi x Yugao scene was written over a year ago.
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:rofl: Epic win, I can totally picture Onoki telling A that xd
