Only three chapters remain of this sequel!!
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Series, All Previous Chapters [In Chronological Reading Order]:
The Legendary Sage of Konoha, Chapter 28;
In the outskirt of Konoha, two mysterious men were seated upon some large rocks as they were admiring their surroundings. The animal life was more active and less anxious than before, and it seemed as if it wasn't only the Joint Shinobi Alliance that had prospered after the end of the war, but in general, the rest of the world as well. Not a single incident had found place in Konoha, or the Joint Shinobi Alliance, for the past seven and a half or so years, ever since the incident of Itachi, Sasuke's son, leaving the village. One thing was building in the west however, not too far away from Amaegakure, the village hidden in the Rain and the homebase of many leaders of war in the past. It was in the heart of the line between the Fire, Wind and Earth countries, as a small and rather unknown village to date, which would be known for corruption and violence in the not too distant future, was growing rapidly. Unbeknownst to the two men though of course, who were just enjoying the warm weather on the otherwise lovely day.
Sasuke: So... The day has come huh...
Naruto: Yeah... It has been in the cards for a long time now, and since Jiraiya now is the new Hokage, we may finally start this journey.
Sasuke: Mhm...
Naruto: ...Are you still thinking about your son, Sasuke?
Sasuke: ...
Taking a deep breath, Sasuke looked up at the clear blue sky.
Naruto: It's been almost eight whole years since he... And yet there hasn't been any traces of where he headed and what he's been up to. The only indicator that you have that he's still alive is due to the fact that Itachi appeared at the Iwa rookie training camp to see Mu some years after he disappeared...
Sasuke: He is alive, I know it... But that's not the main reason to why we are heading on this journey after all, Naruto... Minato, who's both our grandson, he's indeed a special case.
Naruto: Mhm... And with the proper training, he could-...
Minato: Grandfather Naruto and Sasuke?? What are you two doing here? Are you going on the mission as well?
Approaching them from behind was Minato, with Jiraiya and Miyuki following right behind him, as Minato started questioning the content of this so called mission that his father had told him that he was going on.
Sasuke: So you're here...
Naruto: Minato, glad you could make it... And yes, we are also going on this... Ehm, mission, if you'd like...
Minato: Awesome!
Sasuke: But actually, there's more to it... We're not only going on a mission, but on a three years' trip around the world.
Minato: Three years' trip... Wait, are you leaving?! Why?? I don't want you to...
Getting a sad expression on his face, Minato seemed a bit concerned.
Naruto: No, we're not leaving, we're taking you-...
Jiraiya: Son...
Getting down on one knee behind him, Jiraiya then turned Minato around as he grabbed a hold onto his right shoulder with his left hand before he continued.
Jiraiya: They are not going alone... In fact, this is not really a mission.
Minato: What?? You said... You mean that I'm going with them?!...
Shocked hearing what his dad just said and that Naruto and Sasuke wanted to bring him with them, Minato started jumping up and down all over the place in excitement before he suddenly stopped and got a sad expression on his face again, thinking about his parents staying behind and not coming along with them.
Minato: Wait... You two are not coming, are you?
As he said, Miyuki too came down to his height as she spoke out.
Miyuki: No, we're not... Though we feel like you will learn a lot on this journey and that it's something that will both benefit you and your training... We believe you have enormous potential son. However, if you don't want to go, then it's entirely up to you, we won't blame you if you think it's too early.
Minato: I... No way, of course I want to go if grandfather Naruto and Sasuke wants to bring me with them, but at the same time... And then there's the Chunin exam later in the year too...
Miyuki: What would you rather do? Participate in the Chunin exam or get personal training from none other than Naruto and Sasuke themselves?
Jiraiya: And you can always take the Chunin exam, without fail, when you return son, no worries.
As Jiraiya gave his son a smile of comfort and confidence, Minato then finally made up his mind as he hugged the two of them.
Minato: I will miss you so much...
Miyuki: We will miss you too son...
Jiraiya: And don't forget what we've told you and always stay close to grandpa Naruto and Sasuke, okay?
Minato: I will, I promise.
Jiraiya: Alright then, then it's settled.
Standing up on his feet again, Jiraiya brushed his hand through Minato's curly and spiky yellow hair as Miyuki gave him one last hug, shedding some tears.
Miyuki: Take care and be careful Minato...
Minato: You can count on me mom, I promise.
Naruto: Alright then...
Sasuke: Glad you decided to join us grandson.
Heading over to where Naruto and Sasuke were seated, Minato then went with them as the two of them jumped down from the rocks they were seated on. Waving his father and mother goodbye, a new journey was about to begin for the three of them.
[...]
*One year earlier*
Tokie: So I guess this is it then...
Killerbee: Yep, the new journey starts today, make sure the two of you help Darui and Sarah look out for Saria while I'm gone, I wouldn't want them to start calling me before we've seen new dawn.
Ine: You can trust us uncle, I'm sure Saria will do fine as Raikage.
Tokie: And your wife and Darui will both be great advisers for sure.
Walking down a steep mountain-side, the three of them then came to the beginning of a vast forest as Killerbee halted.
Killerbee: I guess this is it, thanks for following me over here but I'm still quite fit.
Ine: Haha, we'll see you later then uncle, and take care.
Waving him off, Killerbee then proceeded into the forest as he too had been planning to start a new journey for quite some time.
[...]
*Back to the future*
In Iwa on the other hand, a massive party seemed to be just about to be thrown as a certain someone had finally graduated from his training camp and was heading home. This however was not to be had without the company of an important guest arriving all the way from Kiri, as the three of them had met up at the Tsuchikage-Mansion.
Ritschi: Welcome home Mu, had a nice trip?
Mu: Yeah... It was fine I suppose...
A handsome looking young man, with more similarities to his mother rather than his father, Mu was said to be a very skilled fighter and also a quick learner. He had two swords hanging on his back across each other, and he was known to be even more skilled than his older brother Itachi, who in opposite of Mu, looked identical to Sasuke himself. What differed Mu from most Uchiha members however, was his trimmed short hair, rather than the long spiky one of his brother, and he used some sort of a cut off green clothing to cover his hair with.
Yukimura: So, another one passes the final test of the Iwa rookie training camp... Not that many who goes through all the seven grades, plus the final year of the champions... Must have been tough I'm sure... Your brother was one of the few to go through it all as well, right?
Mu: Mizukage-Sama, what are you doing here? And yeah, that's true, but not entirely correct... You see, it's only been twelve before me that has gone through all the seven grades in seven years, including my brother, but only four others have managed to pull through with the final year of the champions as well, something in which my brother never cared to try as he'd had enough and wanted to go home by the time he finished the seventh grade...
Yukimura: I see... Actually, I'm not the Mizukage anymore... But yeah, Ritschi invited me over here, and since I had nothing better to do, I thought I would come, haha.
Ritschi: That's right.
Mu: Oh, so who's the new Mizukage?
Ritschi and Yukimura came off as two fellows who were rather generic, not having any traits that made them stand out from the rest. Ritschi was said to look very much like his late brother, Kitsuchi, but they were in fact not twins. Yukimura on the other hand had a grey-yellow-ish color on his hair, and looked to be a rather funny looking fellow. Both being passed their 60s, they had already gathered a lot of experience over the years and they were both seemingly quite wise as the rumors would have it.
Yukimura: It's Mei's daughter actually, but Okuni has been Mizukage for the past seven years now, ever since she turned 25, haha.
Mu: Oh really now?
Yukimura: I guess time flies by fast lately, haha, but I suppose the Iwa rookie training camp doesn't allow you to stay too updated due to its tight schedule.
Mu: Yeah I know...
Yukimura: So how old are you anyways now son?
Mu: I'm sixteen... Just recently actually.
Yukimura: Sixteen you say?? That's the same age as Gaara's son Ebizo, isn't it?
Ritschi: Yeah that's right...
Yukimura: Well he's actually going to take over Gaara' position as far as I've heard.
Ritschi: Oh? Gaara's retiring as Kazekage?
Yukimura: Seems like it...
Mu: Hmm...
Yukimura: And not only that, but with Saria, Killerbee's daughter, replacing him as Raikage a year ago, things really seems to be changing up a bit.
Ritschi: Yeah, it's not that long since I talked to Bee actually, I think the reason was that he was planning to go on a journey of some sort...
Yukimura: So how old is his daughter anyways?
Ritschi: If I'm not mistaken, I think she's 25, three years younger than Naruto's son Jiraiya, who just recently became the new Hokage of Konoha.
Mu: Damn, what did I really miss?? Seems like a lot. I guess this means that you're the oldest Kage now granduncle Ritschi, hehe.
Ritschi: What was that?
Yukimura: Yeah, except for Okuni who's 32, everyone else is either in their 20s or below.
Ritschi: I'm not that old yet!
Yukimura: Haha, take it easy man, no harm intended.
Mu: But why is everyone of the Kages stepping down all of a sudden? I mean, my dad stepped down as Tsuchikage nine years ago, only seven years after he became the official Tsuchikage, then you, Yukimura-San, step down only nine years after you became Mizukage, and then, Killerbee stepped down last year, and Naruto and Gaara does the same this year?
Yukimura: Well, you can look at it more ways than one I suppose. Your dad wanted to move back to Konoha with your family, right? I on the other hand, made it clear that Mei's daughter was going to take over the Mizukage role as soon as she became ready for it, Killerbee probably got tired off it, and Naruto and Gaara... Well, I guess you have to ask them about it, but I believe though that since Gaara had been Kazekage for over 32 years, he felt like it was time for his son to take over, and Naruto probably didn't deem it necessary for him to be both Hokage and Sekaiteki-Kage at the same time any longer...
Ritschi: Yeah, I guess that's not too far from the truth I suppose.
Yukimura: So what about you Ritschi-San?
Ritschi: What about me??
Yukimura: No plans then, haha...
Ritschi: Hah, the idea hasn't even struck me to say the least... But who knows, one day it will happen regardless. So anyways Mu, now that your training is finally done, are you going back to Konoha or?
Mu: No... I was actually thinking of finding my own place here in Iwa, at least for now.
Thinking back on the recent years, a flashback triggered in his head.
*Flashback Begins*
'As a light breeze blew outside in the dark and silent night, the window of a room slowly opened up as a man seated himself in the frame of it. Waking up from the noise, the man who slept in his bed looked starred at the man who had come to see him.
Mu: Brother, what are you doing here, I thought-...
Itachi: Hush, not so loud... Don't let anyone else hear you.
Mu: Dad and mom, they've put out a search order for you... Is it true that you left Konoha?
Itachi: ...
Mu: But why, and why have you come here?
Itachi: I... This was perhaps a mistake.
Turning around, readying himself to leap off, Itachi was then stopped by Mu who grabbed a hold onto his arm.
Mu: Don't go brother, at least tell me why you ran away three years ago...
Itachi: You're too young to understand Mu...
Mu: Try me!
Itachi: ...
Mu: There must be a reason to why you came here to see me... Mom, dad, even Miyuki... None of them has heard from you in three years, Miyuki's even conceived a boy together with Jiraiya, named Minato, our nephew, and he's already two years by now... Why is it that you suddenly reveal yourself before me like this brother... Why have you come?
Itachi: The reason I left-...
Mu: ...
Itachi: The reason I came to see you, is because I needed to tell you to finish this training, no matter what... Always believe in yourself, I know you have a lot of potential...
Mu: Brother...
Itachi: I will always love you little brother, but don't try to follow me or track me down as nothing good will come off it...
Mu: Wait, I-...!!
Suddenly before he knew it, Mu woke up in his bed again as he clutched his head in pain.
Mu: What just happened... ?! Itachi!
Looking up, Mu noticed that the window to his room was still open.
Mu: Did he just... put me under a genjutsu??'
*Flashback Ends*
Ritschi: Interesting, well you may stay as long as you like Mu... And now that I think about it, there's something I'd like to discuss with you too.
Mu: Oh really?
[...]
Ebizo: Are you sure you want to do this dad?
Gaara: Yes... It's been in the cards for some time now, and I suppose Naruto and Sasuke already have moved out from Konoha.
Ebizo: I see...
Sharing the appearance of his dad, Ebizo looked like a younger version of Gaara, only that his hair color was grey, and his hair was more robust and longer than his dad.
Gaara: Don't you worry son, I'm sure you'll do great as the 6th Kazekage!
Ebizo: Hehe, I won't fail you dad!
Standing at Suna's north-east gate, Gaara was just about to take off when someone approached them from behind, as it turned out to be none other than Kushina, Naruto's own daughter.
Kushina: Gaara-San, hang on a minute...
Gaara: Kushina, you're here too?
A young woman with a pretty and innocent look, dark long hair, reaching down to her hips, white colored eyes due to the Byakugan, and some freckles right over her nose, came into Gaara's view. Sharing the looks of her mother, it was actually hard to tell that she was Naruto's daughter to begin with. One thing that she shared with him though, was his almost famous whiskers on her chins.
Ebizo: Yeah, didn't I tell you dad? She's been here for the past week on a diplomatic mission together with three others from Konoha...
Gaara: I see... So what is it Kushina?
Kushina: I would like for you to give my dad this when you see him, and of course, tell Minato that his aunt says hey.
Gaara: No worries, I will.
Taking his leave, Gaara disappeared from view beyond the far-spreading sand.
[...]
*Three days later*
Walking through a dense forest, Minato, Naruto and Sasuke had stopped by a riverbed as they were taking a break.
Sasuke: Are you sure this is it Naruto?
Naruto: I'm positive...
Minato: Sure about what?? Aren't we just taking a break?
Naruto: You'll see soon enough...
Sasuke: Are you sure he's on time?
Naruto: This is where he said he would be.
Minato: So we're expecting someone then?
As the three of them were waiting by some rocks beside a long river that stretched itself through the high, dense and thick forest, someone was spying on them from a hillside nearby.
Thug 1: So, this looks to be interesting... Not too far away from the village either, should be a easy steal.
Itachi: ...
Thug 2: Don't get impatient Jiray, we can't just jump anyone that passes by here as sooner or later, we're bound to meet someone who can put off a fight.
Jiray: Pft... What are you talking about Renin? Two older guys in their late 40s and a small child that can't be older than ten? Please, should be easy pickings.
Itachi (In Thoughts): !! That's... dad?!
Thug 3: Then what are we waiting for, let's just go grab them and see what they got! I'm sure Itami will be proud of us.
Itachi: Wait! We can't attack them, get down and hide this instance!
As the three thugs were about to attack, Itachi screamed out to stop them, as he looked panic-struck, realizing who it was down by the river. As a result, the three others quickly dived down again as one of them seemed to have a mean look on his face.
Renin: What do you mean, Itachi??
Itachi: You can't attack these people!
Thug 3: And why is that?
Itachi: I... They are very dangerous! We've been instructed to head back to the village immediately if we encountered these guys, Itami's orders... We just can't, there's no way Jun!
Jiray: Itami's order's my ass... How would you know that?
Itachi: It's true! We should go right away before they notice us.
Jun: You always had a weak spot against doing illegal things Itachi... If this is one of your tricks, I swear I'll kick your ass.
Itachi: It's not... How long have we known each other? Ever since we left Konoha together! Just trust me on this one, okay?
Jiray: But...
Renin: Fine, let's leave them be then, I'm getting hungry anyhow.
Jun: Ahhh! All this waiting for nothing, and yet another prey wasted... You better make up for this Itachi.
Itachi: ...
As the four of them quickly hurried away, Sasuke suddenly stood up on his feet as he looked towards the direction of the hill.
Naruto: What is it Sasuke, did you hear someone?
Sasuke: ... No, must have been the wind or something.
Minato: Either that, or you're getting old.
Sasuke: Idiot, respect your elders!
Minato: Fine, whatever... Look, someone's approaching!
Sasuke (In Thoughts): I can swear I just sensed something familiar just now... Could it be??
Naruto: Gaara, you made it!
Out from behind some trees came Gaara as he looked rather puzzled on his own whereabouts.
Gaara: So here you are... I was wondering if I was on track or not.
Naruto: You're just in time.
Gaara: Haha, I do hope so.
Naruto: So are you sure you want to do this?
Gaara: Absolutely. When you and Sasuke laid out your plan, I could simply not turn it down. Besides, I always wanted to do some traveling, and it was already about time for my son to take over as Kazekage as well.
Sasuke: Hehe, if you ask me, it's a bit funny that the two of you decided to step down as Kages, almost at the same time...
Gaara: Well, even if Naruto stepped down as Hokage, he's still the Sekaiteki-Kage.
Naruto: Haha, well yeah, but it's not like that position hold much role right now anyways.
Gaara: Heh, I suppose you're right.
Naruto: So, shall we perhaps move on then, we do have a long journey ahead of us.
Minato: Wait just a second, don't ignore my existence! What exactly is going on? Is Gaara-San coming with us too?
Gaara: Glad you pointed that out, as I indeed am.
Minato: Now that's something else!
Naruto: Sasuke, do you want to update Gaara on where we're going next?
Sasuke: Right... My son, Mu, has finally graduated from his training camp just a few days ago, and he apparently had something important to tell me personally, something that he had to tell me face to face, something about walking in his family's footsteps...
Gaara: I see... So we're heading to Iwa then... Well, no need to hang around here, let's head to Iwa as our first destination.
Minato: Yep, I can't wait to see what Iwa looks like! I mean, it's only Iwa and Kiri that I've not been to yet of the five great shinobi villages.
Naruto: Right, then off we go!
Gaara: Oh, and before I forget, Kushina wanted me to give you this letter Naruto.
Naruto: Kushina??
Gaara: Yeah, she was visiting Suna with three other Konoha Shinobi, on some sort of diplomatic mission she said...
Naruto: I see... Can't remember Jiraiya telling me about this, but I'm sure she and Ebizo will be able to work things out with each others.
Gaara: Indeed... And yeah, Kushina says hey btw.
Turning his attention towards Minato, Gaara gave him some sort of a short heads up, as Minato nodded accordingly.
Sasuke: Shall we?
Seeming a bit impatient, Sasuke urged them to start moving again.
Naruto: Oh, I suppose you're right Sasuke, let's get going.
[...]
Hiruzen: Another day at the office huh...
Mito: What, you're not complaining already, are you?
Hiruzen: Haha, are you kidding me? Of course I'm not, it's just that... This is all quite new still... Guess I need some time to adapt to it.
Having matured over the years, Mito was beginning to look more and more like her mother as her blond hair and good looks filled the room with a joyful atmosphere. Hiruzen on the other hand, was said to be Hiruzen Sarutobi reincarnated, as his looks were almost identical to Hiruzen Sarutobi in his younger days, going as far as being mistaken for being related to him by the elderly of the village. He was quite fit and handsome as well, and Mito often had to fend other women off as he quickly gained their attention just by walking outside their house. Mito on the other hand, was known to be one of the village's finest women, and as she was writing down on a piece of paper, she very much reminded the people of the late Tsunade.
Mito: Yeah, I suppose you're right... I understand where you're coming from after all. To think that my dad spent so many hours of his life in this room as Naruto's adviser... And then, your mom replaced Tsunade after the war ended and also spent a lot of hours in here.
Hiruzen: I know...
Jiraiya: And many more shall be spent by us...
In his younger days, Jiraiya was said to have similar looks to the first Hokage of Konoha, Hashirama Senju, with his brown long hair and his brown eyes, and as he got older, he started to look more and more like him. Together with his newly gained Hokage robe, Jiraiya was already being mistaken for being Hashirama himself for some reason, even though Hashirama Senju was long dead. The three of them together formed a nostalgic feeling, as for those of the right age could often feel like seeing Hashirama, Hiruzen Sarutobi and Tsunade standing in the Hokage office, when it in fact were Jiraiya, Hiruzen and Mito instead.
Mito: Indeed.
Jiraiya: Come, let's get to work.
Enjoying their third day at the office as the new official Hokage and his advisers, Jiraiya, Mito and Hiruzen had already started to get the hang of it as two old acquaintance came in through the door. Two of which formed the only team around their age capable of matching Jiraiya's team on the battlefield. Together with Heihachi, the three of them were already quite famous around the village, having been trained by Naruto himself personally in their younger days.
Jiraiya: Jin, Asuka, glad you made it...
Having a very cool and down-to-earth personality, Jin came off as a rather calm, yet energetic person. His dark curly hair, and his all black attire, made him known as the black panther of Konoha. Asuka on the other hand had the looks of an innocent, yet dangerous girl, as her looks was quite similar to Jiraiya's own wife, Miyuki, even to such a degree that people often mixed the two. The main thing that differed them from each other was the fact that Miyuki had dark eyes as well, while Asuka had brown eyes, but other than that, it was hard to tell them apart, something in which the two Legendary Fangs of Konoha, Kakashi Hatake, and Might Gai, found quite humorous and surprising. Heihachi on the other hand was a large and powerful looking man, standing over seven feet tall with a body that spoke for itself. Looking quite fearsome with his heavy muscles, Heihachi was often thought of as a scary looking man, but his personality was more that of a passionate and kind one. With his power, Jin's speed and Asuka's smart, the three of them were almost on level with Jiraiya, Mito and Hiruzen.
Jin: Yeah, yeah, right on time eh?
Asuka: Well, we wouldn't have been if I didn't have to drag your lazy ass out of bed, geez.
Jin: My lazy ass? Well excuse me if I like to enjoy the morning with my wife...
Asuka: Jin! You don't need to reveal all the details...
Jin: You're the one who's slow getting orga-...
Asuka: Jin!!!!!!
Jiraiya: *Kremt* I think that should do...
Jin: Ehehe, sorry, Hokage-Sama.
Jiraiya: Please Jin, after all these years, just call me by my name.
Jin: Right.
Asuka: ...
Hiruzen: So how's your two kids doing?
Asuka: They're...
Still pretty embarrassed by Jin's earlier display, Asuka didn't really manage to gather herself for a decent reply as Jin stepped in.
Jin: Out training with Heihachi I suppose...
Hiruzen: Oh shoot, that's right. We just sent Heihachi and his team out on a mission earlier today, how could I forget that, haha.
Jin: Yeah...
Asuka: Ehm... And yours?
Mito: Ami and Aiko?
Hiruzen: Well, they just graduated from the academy, but we won't be appoiting them any sensei yet as they're going to attend to each their Jutsu academies first... But who knows, once they're ready, I might even train them myself, haha.
Jin: Oh really? Which one of the academies?
Mito: Ami is going to the Genjutsu academy and-...
Hiruzen: While Aiko is going to the Taijutsu academy.
Jin: I see... Isn't your father teacher there Hiruzen?
Hiruzen: That's right...
Asuka: And Kurenai's daughter is now the teacher at the Genjutsu academy after Kurenai retired, right?
Mito: That's right...
Jin: Hmm... Well both our kids went to the Ninjutsu academy, and they graduated alongside Heihachi's kid a year ago... Time really fly by fast.
Asuka: It sure does.
Jiraiya: So, are you guys ready to become Sensei like we talked about? I guess the two of you don't want to fall behind Heihachi, am I right?
Jin: Yeah sure! I've been waiting for this for some weeks now, can't wait!
Asuka: So who are we getting as students?
Jiraiya: Let's see...
[...]
Over at the Kazekage-Mansion, Ebizo and Kushina had just walked in as Ebizo seated himself in the Kazekage-chair while Kushina placed herself on his lap.
Kushina: Finally some time alone, eh?
Ebizo: Haha, you've been waiting for this all day haven't you?
Bending forward as she started kissing him, Kushina just smiled at him as she replied in a playful tone.
Kushina: What? No... Haha, you're too funny. By the way, have you even told your dad yet? About us I mean... I'm not only here on a diplomatic errand after all.
Ebizo: Well, I was meaning to, but we've only been seeing each other for two months... It might still be a bit early, and besides, it doesn't really matter now that I'm Kazekage, haha.
Kushina: Haha, silly you...
Ebizo: And you? Have you told your dad?
Kushina: I... No, I haven't exactly had time, Sasuke and him have been quite busy planning this trip lately, although I have hinted towards it to my mother and brother, so they know I guess.
Ebizo: I see.
Just as the kissing was about to intensify, someone suddenly knocked on the door.
*Knock, Knock*
Ebizo: Yeah??
Kankuro: Am I interrupting something?
As the door opened, it turned out to be Kankuro as he seemed a bit taken back by Kushina and Ebizo, as Kushina quickly got up to her feet again and stood steadfast by Ebizo's side.
Ebizo: NoOO-t, *Kremt* Ehm, not really no...
Kankuro: Haha, relax, I won't tell anyone.
Kushina: ...
Ebizo: So what's up uncle?
Kankuro: I'm actually heading over to Konoha to visit Temari and Shikamaru as my son is over there as well, and I wanted to notify you in case you needed me and discovered that I was gone.
Ebizo: Oh I see, well by all means uncle.
Kankuro: Right then, I'll be seeing you la-...
But just as Kankuro was about to walk out the door, three Konoha Shinobi entered through the door as well.
Rinbo: Did you call us Kushina?
Kushina: No? Did someone tell you that?
Ranmaru: I thought you said that we were to meet up in the afternoon?
Kushina: Oh, yeah... I forgot about that...
Ranmaru: Oh, you must be Kankuro, right? I don't believe we've met. I'm Ranmaru Inuzuka, the daughter of the late Kiba and Tenten of Konoha...
Reiji: Oh, good call. My name is Reiji Hyuga, the son of Neji.
Rinbo: And my name is Rinbo Yamanaka, the son of Ino and Sai.
Kankuro: I see... Well nice to meet you all, however, as much as I would like to stay and talk, I was actually about to leave... Bad timing I suppose, ehehe.
Ranmaru: Oh... Well then, by all means.
Kankuro: Yeah, I'll be seeing you later then Ebizo.
Ebizo: Right, take care.
As he left the room, Kushina then continued.
Kushina: So, do you guys have your reports ready?
Reiji: Yep, we're all ready and set to go, Kushina-Chan.
Ebizo: Wait, are you guys leaving already?
Rinbo: Well yeah, that was the plan, wasn't it?
Ranmaru: ...
Kushina: Actually, I was hoping you guys could go in advance, I'll be staying some extra days...
Reiji: What?? But you can't travel home alone, that's dangerous.
Kushina: Dangerous? The world is at more peace now than ever, and besides, I'm able to fend for myself.
Reiji: Right, sorry if I stepped out of place. You are the daughter of Naruto and Hinata after all...
Kushina: No worries. If you go now, you might catch up to Kankuro as he's headed to Konoha as well.
Ranmaru: Alright then, no need to hang around here any longer... I take it that these two wants to have some private time after all.
Ebizo: Wha-...
Kushina: How did you??
Ranmaru: Please, who hasn't? Reiji, Rinbo, let's go.
Taking their leave, the three of them closed the door behind them. As they did, Ebizo didn't have to ask Kushina twice to get her on his lap again as the kissing continued.
[...]
*The very next day*
Arriving at the south gate of Iwa, Naruto, Sasuke, Gaara and Minato were greatly welcomed as Mu greeted them at the gate.
Naruto: I'm sure you have a lot of catching up to do, eh, Sasuke?
Mu: Dad, I'm so glad you made it!
Almost sprinting over to his dad, Mu jumped in his embrace as Sasuke almost fell over due to it.
Sasuke: Hahaha, it's been too long son!
Mu: Come, please follow me to the Tsuchikage-Mansion, granduncle Ritschi and I have something to tell you guys.
Sasuke: Is that the reason to why you invited me over here so soon after you graduated?
Mu: Yes, please this way dad.
Leading the way, the five of them were at the Tsuchikage-Mansion before they knew it.
Ritschi: Sasuke-San, and Naruto-San and Gaara-San too! Welcome my dear guests!
Gaara: It's been a long time since last time hasn't it? Ever since the Kage meeting four years ago.
Ritschi: Yeah, I guess that's right! Oh, and I've heard that the both of you have stepped down now, isn't that right?
Gaara: Indeed, Ebizo, my son, is now the 6th Kazekage of Suna.
Naruto: And my son Jiraiya, is now the 7th Hokage of Konoha. This is Jiraiya's son, and Sasuke and I's grandson, Minato btw.
Minato: Nice to meet you.
Ritschi: Oh, I've heard that you have much promise kid!
Minato: Oh really now? Not as much as uncle Mu, right uncle?
Mu: Haha, only time will tell.
Giving Minato a pat on his shoulder, Mu seemed to be in a very good mood.
Sasuke: So, now that you've graduated son, what are your future plans? Are you coming back to Konoha?
Mu: No, actually... That brings us to something I, or we, want to talk to you about.
Ritschi: Yeah, we were visited by Yukimura-San a couple of days ago at Mu's graduation day, when he returned to us, and we talked a lot about the recent times and how a new generation of Kages have been appointed to four of the five villages of the Joint Shinobi Alliance, and as he left, I had an idea that I discussed with Mu, and that I would like to talk to you guys about.
Naruto: Oh really?
Ritschi: Seeing as Mu wanted to stay here in Iwa for now, and seeing how all of the villages seems to be doing some sort of change, I figured that it might be time for some changes here as well, and that's why...
Gaara: ...
Ritschi: I've recommended Mu to the Counsel, to take my place as Tsuchikage.
Sasuke: What?!
Naruto: Are you saying you're retiring old man?
Gaara: Well, if he's ready for the task and you really feel like it Ritschi-San, then I guess that's a good call. In fact, Ebizo, my son, is at the same age as Mu if I'm not mistaken.
Sasuke: Whoa... Well, ehm... if that's something you want son, then you have my recommendation as well.
Mu: Really?!
Ritschi: If the current Tsuchikage, as well as the previous one recommends Mu to the counsel, they are sure to agree, gwahaha.
Gaara: *Smirk*
Minato: That's awesome uncle!
Naruto: I guess it's only time before you get elected as the 7th Tsuchikage of Iwa then Mu... Congratulations are in order too I suppose.
Mu: Hehe, thanks.
Sasuke: Well, if you're going to become the Tsuchikage, then you need to keep one thing in mind son.
Mu: Oh yeah, what's that?
Sasuke: Don't let any of the other Kages beat you, haha.
Mu: Haha, I won't dad, I won't.
As day turned to night and night turned to morning, Naruto, Sasuke, Gaara and Minato had had a pleasant day at Iwa in the company of Mu and Ritschi as Sasuke bid his son goodbye after leaving his letter of recommendation in the hands of Ritschi, as it was time to move on again. Waving them off, the four of them were then on the move again.
Naruto: So, are you sure you wanted to leave so soon Sasuke? We could always have spent some days there you know.
Sasuke: I'm fine, and I'm sure Mu is as well. After all, we're suppose to start this Journey at some point anyways, so no need to hang around too much, haha.
Naruto: Haha, I guess you're right.
Gaara: Well then, I guess we're heading to the north point, just as we arranged at forehand now then, right?
Minato: Yep, and I for one can't wait.
As the four of them were heading over a hill, the rising red sun shone on their path, as if guiding them on their now-to-begin Journey.
[...]
As time passed by and our four heroes had journeyed across several places and met a lot of different people, they now found themselves three months after they first headed out, as they were walking down a road leading out of a deep and vast forest.
Gaara: So I guess we should find a place to sleep for the night? It's getting dark already.
Minato: Haha, are we sure we're not lost?
Sasuke: Don't be ridicules, we know exactly were we're going kiddo.
Naruto: Well yeah, I think I've heard of a village not too far from here if we're following the right coordinates-... There! That's the Riverbed we met up at about three months ago Gaara.
Pointing to their right, they could see the far-stretching river right below them as the they were passing by the edge of a hill.
Naruto: That means we're on the right track.
Minato: If we are, we should hurry up, it's really starting to get dark.
Naruto: Yeah... No reason to rush though.
Sasuke: ...
Gaara: So how old are you anyways Minato if I may ask?
Minato: Oh, me? I'm seven actually.
Gaara: Seven huh...
Minato: How come?
Gaara: I was actually thinking about how your training has been so far and how much you've progressed already, so I felt like I had to ask how old you really were, haha.
Minato: I see...
Gaara: You've really got some talent kid, that is for sure, but I guess it's no wonder why, since you have both Uchiha and Uzumaki blood, and not to forget Hyuga blood as well.
Minato: Geez, well thanks, means a lot coming from you Gaara-San. But where is all of these sudden praises coming from?
Gaara: Well you're a special case... Unlike your father Jiraiya, you seem to have inherited the Byakugan from your grandmother Hinata and your aunt, Kushina... But not only that, you've also inherited the Sharingan from your mother as well. Having the ability to both awaken the Sharingan and the Byakugan with your eyes, and turn them on and off as you like, really is a... rare case. I can't remember it happening before to be honest. And with the proper training, you might be able to learn to use them both at once, one with each eye, instead of having to only use one ability at a time...
Minato: Well like you said, I do have a strong bloodline, right grandpas?
Naruto: Haha, don't get ahead of yourself now.
Sasuke: That goes for you too Gaara, haha.
Gaara: Haha, yeah...
Sasuke: So anyways, now that it's been three months since the two of you stepped down... How do you feel? Does it feel strange walking among us normal people again?
Gaara: Normal people?? Well...
Naruto: I got to admit that it kind of feels great to some extent... However, I do believe that it is mainly due to the fact that my son took over, and it's kind of a relief to know that he'll be able to pull off the job just as decent as I did... Other than that, I do believe that I now understand how Hiruzen Sarutobi must have felt it when he stepped down so that my father could take his place... It's not that he couldn't do the job anymore, but that it was time for the next generation to shine.
A smile formed on his face as he started to reminiscing the old times.
Gaara: Well Naruto, we're still only 48 years old, so I guess you could say that it's not entirely the same, haha, but yeah, that feeling is mutual... It really is a relief to have a change for once... The new generations of Kages are most likely going to make us proud.
Naruto: Indeed.
Sasuke: Hmm...
Minato: Look, there's a town up ahead! Guess you were right after all guys!
Naruto: Haha, what, did you expect otherwise?
Gaara: We might be getting older, but we're far from senile just yet!
Sasuke: I guess we'll spend the next few days there then...
Naruto: Right. We'll grab some food and find a place to sleep for the night... Starting tomorrow, we'll begin the next step of your training, Minato.
Minato: Yosh, can't wait!
As the thick forest came to an end, the four of them were standing on top of a high hill as the road led downward through a narrow and steep path, leading towards a rather large and vast village laying in front of them. A village that looked quiet and deserted for its vast size... It laid in the heart of the line between the Fire, Wind and Earth countries, and it was a village rather unknown to our four heroes at this time. During the past three years however, corruption and violence had been growing rapidly within the village, as a large band of thugs had made it its secret homebase, taking over the entire village and ruling over it against the people's will. All this, unbeknownst to Naruto, Gaara, Sasuke and Minato of course, who were just about to make a long awaited encounter with the infamous lot, and one man in particular, would have a surprising and anticipated encounter with family from the village he abandoned all those years ago.
* Seven and a half years had passed since Itachi left Konoha with a band of thugs... Would fate have it so that he would finally come face to face with his dad again? What threat could this band of thugs pose to our four heroes? Find out next time as the story comes even closer to its end! *
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Fun Facts & Author's Note:
1: After a big ass chapter 27, I was trying to trim the length of this one down to a minimum, but it still turned out to be of some length in the end, haha. So yeah, after hearing a lot lately that the only thing I can (I doubt that it's the only thing, but oh well xP) improve on is narrative and giving out more descriptions, I finally sat down and started picturing how most of my created characters actually looked like (I've barely had a personal view on how most of them looked like before now actually, which is a bit strange really). Some of which I've faintly hinted at before, but never gone into full detail. What I can't help wonder though, is if the description I gave out shattered any mirrors out there? xD I mean, even if I hadn't really pictured how some of them looked, I'm sure you had, haha, and some of you probably didn't think Jiraiya or even Kushina looked like how I described them, no? The fact that I've barely given out detail throughout my story, has mainly been because I've always liked to leave the imagination up to the readers as much as I can, and since this is indeed a Naruto fic after all, I felt that it has been a fitting theme so far. But alas, I figured I would deal with that "issue" once and for all, now that I was, and am, this close to the end of things.
2: The whole flashback scene with Itachi visiting Mu, was actually an idea that I got inspired by Danivass to do, so creds to you my friend for inspiring me, haha ^_^ In fact, this whole chapter was actually planned to only consist of Naruto, Sasuke, Minato and Gaara, but then I figured I would have to flesh it out a bit by bringing in other scenes as well, which I'm glad I did in the end.
3: Something which have been driving me through the whole of this sequel, is actually the fact that I planned out (and then I mean planned out) the three final chapters in such details, even before I begun writing the sequel, that I almost could just be copying and pasting from my notes, haha xD For instance, the half of next chapter (or about that) has a very long "Bar Scene" that I wrote way, way back in time, and when I was about to pick up chapter 29 again, I realized that the scene was last edited in "January 2012," which is even before I started writing the first chapter of this sequel (released in March 2012)! O__O Of course, I would have to tweak it to match my "current writing skills," but in overall, I kept most of the original script of it. I'll go more in detail about this scene once the next chapter is released, as I don't want to spoil anything just yet, haha
That's all I have for now, hope you enjoyed this chapter, Thank me thumbs up if you did, and as always people, have an awesome day ;D
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Series, All Previous Chapters [In Chronological Reading Order]:
The Legendary Sage of Konoha;
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
[5]
[6]
--->
--->
[9]
[10]
[11]
[12]
[13]
--->
[14]
[15]
--->
--->
[18]
[19]
[20]
--->
The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns;
[22]
[23]
[24]
[25]
[26]
[27]
[28]
[29]
[30]
[31]
[32]
[33]
[34]
[35]
[36]
[37]
[38]
[39]
[40]
[41]
[42]
[43]
[44]
[45]
[46]
[47]
[48]
[1]
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[3]
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[4]
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[5]
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[6]
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--->
Sasuke Chronicles;
[7]
[7]
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[8]
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[9]
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[10]
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[11]
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[12]
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[13]
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--->
Kakashi Chronicles;
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[15]
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[16]
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[17]
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[18]
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[19]
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[20]
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--->
[21]
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The Legendary Sage of Konoha Returns;
[22]
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[23]
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[24]
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[25]
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[26]
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[27]
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[28]
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[31]
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[32]
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[35]
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The Legendary Sage of Konoha, Chapter 28;
A new Journey begins:
In the outskirt of Konoha, two mysterious men were seated upon some large rocks as they were admiring their surroundings. The animal life was more active and less anxious than before, and it seemed as if it wasn't only the Joint Shinobi Alliance that had prospered after the end of the war, but in general, the rest of the world as well. Not a single incident had found place in Konoha, or the Joint Shinobi Alliance, for the past seven and a half or so years, ever since the incident of Itachi, Sasuke's son, leaving the village. One thing was building in the west however, not too far away from Amaegakure, the village hidden in the Rain and the homebase of many leaders of war in the past. It was in the heart of the line between the Fire, Wind and Earth countries, as a small and rather unknown village to date, which would be known for corruption and violence in the not too distant future, was growing rapidly. Unbeknownst to the two men though of course, who were just enjoying the warm weather on the otherwise lovely day.
Sasuke: So... The day has come huh...
Naruto: Yeah... It has been in the cards for a long time now, and since Jiraiya now is the new Hokage, we may finally start this journey.
Sasuke: Mhm...
Naruto: ...Are you still thinking about your son, Sasuke?
Sasuke: ...
Taking a deep breath, Sasuke looked up at the clear blue sky.
Naruto: It's been almost eight whole years since he... And yet there hasn't been any traces of where he headed and what he's been up to. The only indicator that you have that he's still alive is due to the fact that Itachi appeared at the Iwa rookie training camp to see Mu some years after he disappeared...
Sasuke: He is alive, I know it... But that's not the main reason to why we are heading on this journey after all, Naruto... Minato, who's both our grandson, he's indeed a special case.
Naruto: Mhm... And with the proper training, he could-...
Minato: Grandfather Naruto and Sasuke?? What are you two doing here? Are you going on the mission as well?
Approaching them from behind was Minato, with Jiraiya and Miyuki following right behind him, as Minato started questioning the content of this so called mission that his father had told him that he was going on.
Sasuke: So you're here...
Naruto: Minato, glad you could make it... And yes, we are also going on this... Ehm, mission, if you'd like...
Minato: Awesome!
Sasuke: But actually, there's more to it... We're not only going on a mission, but on a three years' trip around the world.
Minato: Three years' trip... Wait, are you leaving?! Why?? I don't want you to...
Getting a sad expression on his face, Minato seemed a bit concerned.
Naruto: No, we're not leaving, we're taking you-...
Jiraiya: Son...
Getting down on one knee behind him, Jiraiya then turned Minato around as he grabbed a hold onto his right shoulder with his left hand before he continued.
Jiraiya: They are not going alone... In fact, this is not really a mission.
Minato: What?? You said... You mean that I'm going with them?!...
Shocked hearing what his dad just said and that Naruto and Sasuke wanted to bring him with them, Minato started jumping up and down all over the place in excitement before he suddenly stopped and got a sad expression on his face again, thinking about his parents staying behind and not coming along with them.
Minato: Wait... You two are not coming, are you?
As he said, Miyuki too came down to his height as she spoke out.
Miyuki: No, we're not... Though we feel like you will learn a lot on this journey and that it's something that will both benefit you and your training... We believe you have enormous potential son. However, if you don't want to go, then it's entirely up to you, we won't blame you if you think it's too early.
Minato: I... No way, of course I want to go if grandfather Naruto and Sasuke wants to bring me with them, but at the same time... And then there's the Chunin exam later in the year too...
Miyuki: What would you rather do? Participate in the Chunin exam or get personal training from none other than Naruto and Sasuke themselves?
Jiraiya: And you can always take the Chunin exam, without fail, when you return son, no worries.
As Jiraiya gave his son a smile of comfort and confidence, Minato then finally made up his mind as he hugged the two of them.
Minato: I will miss you so much...
Miyuki: We will miss you too son...
Jiraiya: And don't forget what we've told you and always stay close to grandpa Naruto and Sasuke, okay?
Minato: I will, I promise.
Jiraiya: Alright then, then it's settled.
Standing up on his feet again, Jiraiya brushed his hand through Minato's curly and spiky yellow hair as Miyuki gave him one last hug, shedding some tears.
Miyuki: Take care and be careful Minato...
Minato: You can count on me mom, I promise.
Naruto: Alright then...
Sasuke: Glad you decided to join us grandson.
Heading over to where Naruto and Sasuke were seated, Minato then went with them as the two of them jumped down from the rocks they were seated on. Waving his father and mother goodbye, a new journey was about to begin for the three of them.
[...]
*One year earlier*
Tokie: So I guess this is it then...
Killerbee: Yep, the new journey starts today, make sure the two of you help Darui and Sarah look out for Saria while I'm gone, I wouldn't want them to start calling me before we've seen new dawn.
Ine: You can trust us uncle, I'm sure Saria will do fine as Raikage.
Tokie: And your wife and Darui will both be great advisers for sure.
Walking down a steep mountain-side, the three of them then came to the beginning of a vast forest as Killerbee halted.
Killerbee: I guess this is it, thanks for following me over here but I'm still quite fit.
Ine: Haha, we'll see you later then uncle, and take care.
Waving him off, Killerbee then proceeded into the forest as he too had been planning to start a new journey for quite some time.
[...]
*Back to the future*
In Iwa on the other hand, a massive party seemed to be just about to be thrown as a certain someone had finally graduated from his training camp and was heading home. This however was not to be had without the company of an important guest arriving all the way from Kiri, as the three of them had met up at the Tsuchikage-Mansion.
Ritschi: Welcome home Mu, had a nice trip?
Mu: Yeah... It was fine I suppose...
A handsome looking young man, with more similarities to his mother rather than his father, Mu was said to be a very skilled fighter and also a quick learner. He had two swords hanging on his back across each other, and he was known to be even more skilled than his older brother Itachi, who in opposite of Mu, looked identical to Sasuke himself. What differed Mu from most Uchiha members however, was his trimmed short hair, rather than the long spiky one of his brother, and he used some sort of a cut off green clothing to cover his hair with.
Yukimura: So, another one passes the final test of the Iwa rookie training camp... Not that many who goes through all the seven grades, plus the final year of the champions... Must have been tough I'm sure... Your brother was one of the few to go through it all as well, right?
Mu: Mizukage-Sama, what are you doing here? And yeah, that's true, but not entirely correct... You see, it's only been twelve before me that has gone through all the seven grades in seven years, including my brother, but only four others have managed to pull through with the final year of the champions as well, something in which my brother never cared to try as he'd had enough and wanted to go home by the time he finished the seventh grade...
Yukimura: I see... Actually, I'm not the Mizukage anymore... But yeah, Ritschi invited me over here, and since I had nothing better to do, I thought I would come, haha.
Ritschi: That's right.
Mu: Oh, so who's the new Mizukage?
Ritschi and Yukimura came off as two fellows who were rather generic, not having any traits that made them stand out from the rest. Ritschi was said to look very much like his late brother, Kitsuchi, but they were in fact not twins. Yukimura on the other hand had a grey-yellow-ish color on his hair, and looked to be a rather funny looking fellow. Both being passed their 60s, they had already gathered a lot of experience over the years and they were both seemingly quite wise as the rumors would have it.
Yukimura: It's Mei's daughter actually, but Okuni has been Mizukage for the past seven years now, ever since she turned 25, haha.
Mu: Oh really now?
Yukimura: I guess time flies by fast lately, haha, but I suppose the Iwa rookie training camp doesn't allow you to stay too updated due to its tight schedule.
Mu: Yeah I know...
Yukimura: So how old are you anyways now son?
Mu: I'm sixteen... Just recently actually.
Yukimura: Sixteen you say?? That's the same age as Gaara's son Ebizo, isn't it?
Ritschi: Yeah that's right...
Yukimura: Well he's actually going to take over Gaara' position as far as I've heard.
Ritschi: Oh? Gaara's retiring as Kazekage?
Yukimura: Seems like it...
Mu: Hmm...
Yukimura: And not only that, but with Saria, Killerbee's daughter, replacing him as Raikage a year ago, things really seems to be changing up a bit.
Ritschi: Yeah, it's not that long since I talked to Bee actually, I think the reason was that he was planning to go on a journey of some sort...
Yukimura: So how old is his daughter anyways?
Ritschi: If I'm not mistaken, I think she's 25, three years younger than Naruto's son Jiraiya, who just recently became the new Hokage of Konoha.
Mu: Damn, what did I really miss?? Seems like a lot. I guess this means that you're the oldest Kage now granduncle Ritschi, hehe.
Ritschi: What was that?
Yukimura: Yeah, except for Okuni who's 32, everyone else is either in their 20s or below.
Ritschi: I'm not that old yet!
Yukimura: Haha, take it easy man, no harm intended.
Mu: But why is everyone of the Kages stepping down all of a sudden? I mean, my dad stepped down as Tsuchikage nine years ago, only seven years after he became the official Tsuchikage, then you, Yukimura-San, step down only nine years after you became Mizukage, and then, Killerbee stepped down last year, and Naruto and Gaara does the same this year?
Yukimura: Well, you can look at it more ways than one I suppose. Your dad wanted to move back to Konoha with your family, right? I on the other hand, made it clear that Mei's daughter was going to take over the Mizukage role as soon as she became ready for it, Killerbee probably got tired off it, and Naruto and Gaara... Well, I guess you have to ask them about it, but I believe though that since Gaara had been Kazekage for over 32 years, he felt like it was time for his son to take over, and Naruto probably didn't deem it necessary for him to be both Hokage and Sekaiteki-Kage at the same time any longer...
Ritschi: Yeah, I guess that's not too far from the truth I suppose.
Yukimura: So what about you Ritschi-San?
Ritschi: What about me??
Yukimura: No plans then, haha...
Ritschi: Hah, the idea hasn't even struck me to say the least... But who knows, one day it will happen regardless. So anyways Mu, now that your training is finally done, are you going back to Konoha or?
Mu: No... I was actually thinking of finding my own place here in Iwa, at least for now.
Thinking back on the recent years, a flashback triggered in his head.
*Flashback Begins*
'As a light breeze blew outside in the dark and silent night, the window of a room slowly opened up as a man seated himself in the frame of it. Waking up from the noise, the man who slept in his bed looked starred at the man who had come to see him.
Mu: Brother, what are you doing here, I thought-...
Itachi: Hush, not so loud... Don't let anyone else hear you.
Mu: Dad and mom, they've put out a search order for you... Is it true that you left Konoha?
Itachi: ...
Mu: But why, and why have you come here?
Itachi: I... This was perhaps a mistake.
Turning around, readying himself to leap off, Itachi was then stopped by Mu who grabbed a hold onto his arm.
Mu: Don't go brother, at least tell me why you ran away three years ago...
Itachi: You're too young to understand Mu...
Mu: Try me!
Itachi: ...
Mu: There must be a reason to why you came here to see me... Mom, dad, even Miyuki... None of them has heard from you in three years, Miyuki's even conceived a boy together with Jiraiya, named Minato, our nephew, and he's already two years by now... Why is it that you suddenly reveal yourself before me like this brother... Why have you come?
Itachi: The reason I left-...
Mu: ...
Itachi: The reason I came to see you, is because I needed to tell you to finish this training, no matter what... Always believe in yourself, I know you have a lot of potential...
Mu: Brother...
Itachi: I will always love you little brother, but don't try to follow me or track me down as nothing good will come off it...
Mu: Wait, I-...!!
Suddenly before he knew it, Mu woke up in his bed again as he clutched his head in pain.
Mu: What just happened... ?! Itachi!
Looking up, Mu noticed that the window to his room was still open.
Mu: Did he just... put me under a genjutsu??'
*Flashback Ends*
Ritschi: Interesting, well you may stay as long as you like Mu... And now that I think about it, there's something I'd like to discuss with you too.
Mu: Oh really?
[...]
Ebizo: Are you sure you want to do this dad?
Gaara: Yes... It's been in the cards for some time now, and I suppose Naruto and Sasuke already have moved out from Konoha.
Ebizo: I see...
Sharing the appearance of his dad, Ebizo looked like a younger version of Gaara, only that his hair color was grey, and his hair was more robust and longer than his dad.
Gaara: Don't you worry son, I'm sure you'll do great as the 6th Kazekage!
Ebizo: Hehe, I won't fail you dad!
Standing at Suna's north-east gate, Gaara was just about to take off when someone approached them from behind, as it turned out to be none other than Kushina, Naruto's own daughter.
Kushina: Gaara-San, hang on a minute...
Gaara: Kushina, you're here too?
A young woman with a pretty and innocent look, dark long hair, reaching down to her hips, white colored eyes due to the Byakugan, and some freckles right over her nose, came into Gaara's view. Sharing the looks of her mother, it was actually hard to tell that she was Naruto's daughter to begin with. One thing that she shared with him though, was his almost famous whiskers on her chins.
Ebizo: Yeah, didn't I tell you dad? She's been here for the past week on a diplomatic mission together with three others from Konoha...
Gaara: I see... So what is it Kushina?
Kushina: I would like for you to give my dad this when you see him, and of course, tell Minato that his aunt says hey.
Gaara: No worries, I will.
Taking his leave, Gaara disappeared from view beyond the far-spreading sand.
[...]
*Three days later*
Walking through a dense forest, Minato, Naruto and Sasuke had stopped by a riverbed as they were taking a break.
Sasuke: Are you sure this is it Naruto?
Naruto: I'm positive...
Minato: Sure about what?? Aren't we just taking a break?
Naruto: You'll see soon enough...
Sasuke: Are you sure he's on time?
Naruto: This is where he said he would be.
Minato: So we're expecting someone then?
As the three of them were waiting by some rocks beside a long river that stretched itself through the high, dense and thick forest, someone was spying on them from a hillside nearby.
Thug 1: So, this looks to be interesting... Not too far away from the village either, should be a easy steal.
Itachi: ...
Thug 2: Don't get impatient Jiray, we can't just jump anyone that passes by here as sooner or later, we're bound to meet someone who can put off a fight.
Jiray: Pft... What are you talking about Renin? Two older guys in their late 40s and a small child that can't be older than ten? Please, should be easy pickings.
Itachi (In Thoughts): !! That's... dad?!
Thug 3: Then what are we waiting for, let's just go grab them and see what they got! I'm sure Itami will be proud of us.
Itachi: Wait! We can't attack them, get down and hide this instance!
As the three thugs were about to attack, Itachi screamed out to stop them, as he looked panic-struck, realizing who it was down by the river. As a result, the three others quickly dived down again as one of them seemed to have a mean look on his face.
Renin: What do you mean, Itachi??
Itachi: You can't attack these people!
Thug 3: And why is that?
Itachi: I... They are very dangerous! We've been instructed to head back to the village immediately if we encountered these guys, Itami's orders... We just can't, there's no way Jun!
Jiray: Itami's order's my ass... How would you know that?
Itachi: It's true! We should go right away before they notice us.
Jun: You always had a weak spot against doing illegal things Itachi... If this is one of your tricks, I swear I'll kick your ass.
Itachi: It's not... How long have we known each other? Ever since we left Konoha together! Just trust me on this one, okay?
Jiray: But...
Renin: Fine, let's leave them be then, I'm getting hungry anyhow.
Jun: Ahhh! All this waiting for nothing, and yet another prey wasted... You better make up for this Itachi.
Itachi: ...
As the four of them quickly hurried away, Sasuke suddenly stood up on his feet as he looked towards the direction of the hill.
Naruto: What is it Sasuke, did you hear someone?
Sasuke: ... No, must have been the wind or something.
Minato: Either that, or you're getting old.
Sasuke: Idiot, respect your elders!
Minato: Fine, whatever... Look, someone's approaching!
Sasuke (In Thoughts): I can swear I just sensed something familiar just now... Could it be??
Naruto: Gaara, you made it!
Out from behind some trees came Gaara as he looked rather puzzled on his own whereabouts.
Gaara: So here you are... I was wondering if I was on track or not.
Naruto: You're just in time.
Gaara: Haha, I do hope so.
Naruto: So are you sure you want to do this?
Gaara: Absolutely. When you and Sasuke laid out your plan, I could simply not turn it down. Besides, I always wanted to do some traveling, and it was already about time for my son to take over as Kazekage as well.
Sasuke: Hehe, if you ask me, it's a bit funny that the two of you decided to step down as Kages, almost at the same time...
Gaara: Well, even if Naruto stepped down as Hokage, he's still the Sekaiteki-Kage.
Naruto: Haha, well yeah, but it's not like that position hold much role right now anyways.
Gaara: Heh, I suppose you're right.
Naruto: So, shall we perhaps move on then, we do have a long journey ahead of us.
Minato: Wait just a second, don't ignore my existence! What exactly is going on? Is Gaara-San coming with us too?
Gaara: Glad you pointed that out, as I indeed am.
Minato: Now that's something else!
Naruto: Sasuke, do you want to update Gaara on where we're going next?
Sasuke: Right... My son, Mu, has finally graduated from his training camp just a few days ago, and he apparently had something important to tell me personally, something that he had to tell me face to face, something about walking in his family's footsteps...
Gaara: I see... So we're heading to Iwa then... Well, no need to hang around here, let's head to Iwa as our first destination.
Minato: Yep, I can't wait to see what Iwa looks like! I mean, it's only Iwa and Kiri that I've not been to yet of the five great shinobi villages.
Naruto: Right, then off we go!
Gaara: Oh, and before I forget, Kushina wanted me to give you this letter Naruto.
Naruto: Kushina??
Gaara: Yeah, she was visiting Suna with three other Konoha Shinobi, on some sort of diplomatic mission she said...
Naruto: I see... Can't remember Jiraiya telling me about this, but I'm sure she and Ebizo will be able to work things out with each others.
Gaara: Indeed... And yeah, Kushina says hey btw.
Turning his attention towards Minato, Gaara gave him some sort of a short heads up, as Minato nodded accordingly.
Sasuke: Shall we?
Seeming a bit impatient, Sasuke urged them to start moving again.
Naruto: Oh, I suppose you're right Sasuke, let's get going.
[...]
Hiruzen: Another day at the office huh...
Mito: What, you're not complaining already, are you?
Hiruzen: Haha, are you kidding me? Of course I'm not, it's just that... This is all quite new still... Guess I need some time to adapt to it.
Having matured over the years, Mito was beginning to look more and more like her mother as her blond hair and good looks filled the room with a joyful atmosphere. Hiruzen on the other hand, was said to be Hiruzen Sarutobi reincarnated, as his looks were almost identical to Hiruzen Sarutobi in his younger days, going as far as being mistaken for being related to him by the elderly of the village. He was quite fit and handsome as well, and Mito often had to fend other women off as he quickly gained their attention just by walking outside their house. Mito on the other hand, was known to be one of the village's finest women, and as she was writing down on a piece of paper, she very much reminded the people of the late Tsunade.
Mito: Yeah, I suppose you're right... I understand where you're coming from after all. To think that my dad spent so many hours of his life in this room as Naruto's adviser... And then, your mom replaced Tsunade after the war ended and also spent a lot of hours in here.
Hiruzen: I know...
Jiraiya: And many more shall be spent by us...
In his younger days, Jiraiya was said to have similar looks to the first Hokage of Konoha, Hashirama Senju, with his brown long hair and his brown eyes, and as he got older, he started to look more and more like him. Together with his newly gained Hokage robe, Jiraiya was already being mistaken for being Hashirama himself for some reason, even though Hashirama Senju was long dead. The three of them together formed a nostalgic feeling, as for those of the right age could often feel like seeing Hashirama, Hiruzen Sarutobi and Tsunade standing in the Hokage office, when it in fact were Jiraiya, Hiruzen and Mito instead.
Mito: Indeed.
Jiraiya: Come, let's get to work.
Enjoying their third day at the office as the new official Hokage and his advisers, Jiraiya, Mito and Hiruzen had already started to get the hang of it as two old acquaintance came in through the door. Two of which formed the only team around their age capable of matching Jiraiya's team on the battlefield. Together with Heihachi, the three of them were already quite famous around the village, having been trained by Naruto himself personally in their younger days.
Jiraiya: Jin, Asuka, glad you made it...
Having a very cool and down-to-earth personality, Jin came off as a rather calm, yet energetic person. His dark curly hair, and his all black attire, made him known as the black panther of Konoha. Asuka on the other hand had the looks of an innocent, yet dangerous girl, as her looks was quite similar to Jiraiya's own wife, Miyuki, even to such a degree that people often mixed the two. The main thing that differed them from each other was the fact that Miyuki had dark eyes as well, while Asuka had brown eyes, but other than that, it was hard to tell them apart, something in which the two Legendary Fangs of Konoha, Kakashi Hatake, and Might Gai, found quite humorous and surprising. Heihachi on the other hand was a large and powerful looking man, standing over seven feet tall with a body that spoke for itself. Looking quite fearsome with his heavy muscles, Heihachi was often thought of as a scary looking man, but his personality was more that of a passionate and kind one. With his power, Jin's speed and Asuka's smart, the three of them were almost on level with Jiraiya, Mito and Hiruzen.
Jin: Yeah, yeah, right on time eh?
Asuka: Well, we wouldn't have been if I didn't have to drag your lazy ass out of bed, geez.
Jin: My lazy ass? Well excuse me if I like to enjoy the morning with my wife...
Asuka: Jin! You don't need to reveal all the details...
Jin: You're the one who's slow getting orga-...
Asuka: Jin!!!!!!
Jiraiya: *Kremt* I think that should do...
Jin: Ehehe, sorry, Hokage-Sama.
Jiraiya: Please Jin, after all these years, just call me by my name.
Jin: Right.
Asuka: ...
Hiruzen: So how's your two kids doing?
Asuka: They're...
Still pretty embarrassed by Jin's earlier display, Asuka didn't really manage to gather herself for a decent reply as Jin stepped in.
Jin: Out training with Heihachi I suppose...
Hiruzen: Oh shoot, that's right. We just sent Heihachi and his team out on a mission earlier today, how could I forget that, haha.
Jin: Yeah...
Asuka: Ehm... And yours?
Mito: Ami and Aiko?
Hiruzen: Well, they just graduated from the academy, but we won't be appoiting them any sensei yet as they're going to attend to each their Jutsu academies first... But who knows, once they're ready, I might even train them myself, haha.
Jin: Oh really? Which one of the academies?
Mito: Ami is going to the Genjutsu academy and-...
Hiruzen: While Aiko is going to the Taijutsu academy.
Jin: I see... Isn't your father teacher there Hiruzen?
Hiruzen: That's right...
Asuka: And Kurenai's daughter is now the teacher at the Genjutsu academy after Kurenai retired, right?
Mito: That's right...
Jin: Hmm... Well both our kids went to the Ninjutsu academy, and they graduated alongside Heihachi's kid a year ago... Time really fly by fast.
Asuka: It sure does.
Jiraiya: So, are you guys ready to become Sensei like we talked about? I guess the two of you don't want to fall behind Heihachi, am I right?
Jin: Yeah sure! I've been waiting for this for some weeks now, can't wait!
Asuka: So who are we getting as students?
Jiraiya: Let's see...
[...]
Over at the Kazekage-Mansion, Ebizo and Kushina had just walked in as Ebizo seated himself in the Kazekage-chair while Kushina placed herself on his lap.
Kushina: Finally some time alone, eh?
Ebizo: Haha, you've been waiting for this all day haven't you?
Bending forward as she started kissing him, Kushina just smiled at him as she replied in a playful tone.
Kushina: What? No... Haha, you're too funny. By the way, have you even told your dad yet? About us I mean... I'm not only here on a diplomatic errand after all.
Ebizo: Well, I was meaning to, but we've only been seeing each other for two months... It might still be a bit early, and besides, it doesn't really matter now that I'm Kazekage, haha.
Kushina: Haha, silly you...
Ebizo: And you? Have you told your dad?
Kushina: I... No, I haven't exactly had time, Sasuke and him have been quite busy planning this trip lately, although I have hinted towards it to my mother and brother, so they know I guess.
Ebizo: I see.
Just as the kissing was about to intensify, someone suddenly knocked on the door.
*Knock, Knock*
Ebizo: Yeah??
Kankuro: Am I interrupting something?
As the door opened, it turned out to be Kankuro as he seemed a bit taken back by Kushina and Ebizo, as Kushina quickly got up to her feet again and stood steadfast by Ebizo's side.
Ebizo: NoOO-t, *Kremt* Ehm, not really no...
Kankuro: Haha, relax, I won't tell anyone.
Kushina: ...
Ebizo: So what's up uncle?
Kankuro: I'm actually heading over to Konoha to visit Temari and Shikamaru as my son is over there as well, and I wanted to notify you in case you needed me and discovered that I was gone.
Ebizo: Oh I see, well by all means uncle.
Kankuro: Right then, I'll be seeing you la-...
But just as Kankuro was about to walk out the door, three Konoha Shinobi entered through the door as well.
Rinbo: Did you call us Kushina?
Kushina: No? Did someone tell you that?
Ranmaru: I thought you said that we were to meet up in the afternoon?
Kushina: Oh, yeah... I forgot about that...
Ranmaru: Oh, you must be Kankuro, right? I don't believe we've met. I'm Ranmaru Inuzuka, the daughter of the late Kiba and Tenten of Konoha...
Reiji: Oh, good call. My name is Reiji Hyuga, the son of Neji.
Rinbo: And my name is Rinbo Yamanaka, the son of Ino and Sai.
Kankuro: I see... Well nice to meet you all, however, as much as I would like to stay and talk, I was actually about to leave... Bad timing I suppose, ehehe.
Ranmaru: Oh... Well then, by all means.
Kankuro: Yeah, I'll be seeing you later then Ebizo.
Ebizo: Right, take care.
As he left the room, Kushina then continued.
Kushina: So, do you guys have your reports ready?
Reiji: Yep, we're all ready and set to go, Kushina-Chan.
Ebizo: Wait, are you guys leaving already?
Rinbo: Well yeah, that was the plan, wasn't it?
Ranmaru: ...
Kushina: Actually, I was hoping you guys could go in advance, I'll be staying some extra days...
Reiji: What?? But you can't travel home alone, that's dangerous.
Kushina: Dangerous? The world is at more peace now than ever, and besides, I'm able to fend for myself.
Reiji: Right, sorry if I stepped out of place. You are the daughter of Naruto and Hinata after all...
Kushina: No worries. If you go now, you might catch up to Kankuro as he's headed to Konoha as well.
Ranmaru: Alright then, no need to hang around here any longer... I take it that these two wants to have some private time after all.
Ebizo: Wha-...
Kushina: How did you??
Ranmaru: Please, who hasn't? Reiji, Rinbo, let's go.
Taking their leave, the three of them closed the door behind them. As they did, Ebizo didn't have to ask Kushina twice to get her on his lap again as the kissing continued.
[...]
*The very next day*
Arriving at the south gate of Iwa, Naruto, Sasuke, Gaara and Minato were greatly welcomed as Mu greeted them at the gate.
Naruto: I'm sure you have a lot of catching up to do, eh, Sasuke?
Mu: Dad, I'm so glad you made it!
Almost sprinting over to his dad, Mu jumped in his embrace as Sasuke almost fell over due to it.
Sasuke: Hahaha, it's been too long son!
Mu: Come, please follow me to the Tsuchikage-Mansion, granduncle Ritschi and I have something to tell you guys.
Sasuke: Is that the reason to why you invited me over here so soon after you graduated?
Mu: Yes, please this way dad.
Leading the way, the five of them were at the Tsuchikage-Mansion before they knew it.
Ritschi: Sasuke-San, and Naruto-San and Gaara-San too! Welcome my dear guests!
Gaara: It's been a long time since last time hasn't it? Ever since the Kage meeting four years ago.
Ritschi: Yeah, I guess that's right! Oh, and I've heard that the both of you have stepped down now, isn't that right?
Gaara: Indeed, Ebizo, my son, is now the 6th Kazekage of Suna.
Naruto: And my son Jiraiya, is now the 7th Hokage of Konoha. This is Jiraiya's son, and Sasuke and I's grandson, Minato btw.
Minato: Nice to meet you.
Ritschi: Oh, I've heard that you have much promise kid!
Minato: Oh really now? Not as much as uncle Mu, right uncle?
Mu: Haha, only time will tell.
Giving Minato a pat on his shoulder, Mu seemed to be in a very good mood.
Sasuke: So, now that you've graduated son, what are your future plans? Are you coming back to Konoha?
Mu: No, actually... That brings us to something I, or we, want to talk to you about.
Ritschi: Yeah, we were visited by Yukimura-San a couple of days ago at Mu's graduation day, when he returned to us, and we talked a lot about the recent times and how a new generation of Kages have been appointed to four of the five villages of the Joint Shinobi Alliance, and as he left, I had an idea that I discussed with Mu, and that I would like to talk to you guys about.
Naruto: Oh really?
Ritschi: Seeing as Mu wanted to stay here in Iwa for now, and seeing how all of the villages seems to be doing some sort of change, I figured that it might be time for some changes here as well, and that's why...
Gaara: ...
Ritschi: I've recommended Mu to the Counsel, to take my place as Tsuchikage.
Sasuke: What?!
Naruto: Are you saying you're retiring old man?
Gaara: Well, if he's ready for the task and you really feel like it Ritschi-San, then I guess that's a good call. In fact, Ebizo, my son, is at the same age as Mu if I'm not mistaken.
Sasuke: Whoa... Well, ehm... if that's something you want son, then you have my recommendation as well.
Mu: Really?!
Ritschi: If the current Tsuchikage, as well as the previous one recommends Mu to the counsel, they are sure to agree, gwahaha.
Gaara: *Smirk*
Minato: That's awesome uncle!
Naruto: I guess it's only time before you get elected as the 7th Tsuchikage of Iwa then Mu... Congratulations are in order too I suppose.
Mu: Hehe, thanks.
Sasuke: Well, if you're going to become the Tsuchikage, then you need to keep one thing in mind son.
Mu: Oh yeah, what's that?
Sasuke: Don't let any of the other Kages beat you, haha.
Mu: Haha, I won't dad, I won't.
As day turned to night and night turned to morning, Naruto, Sasuke, Gaara and Minato had had a pleasant day at Iwa in the company of Mu and Ritschi as Sasuke bid his son goodbye after leaving his letter of recommendation in the hands of Ritschi, as it was time to move on again. Waving them off, the four of them were then on the move again.
Naruto: So, are you sure you wanted to leave so soon Sasuke? We could always have spent some days there you know.
Sasuke: I'm fine, and I'm sure Mu is as well. After all, we're suppose to start this Journey at some point anyways, so no need to hang around too much, haha.
Naruto: Haha, I guess you're right.
Gaara: Well then, I guess we're heading to the north point, just as we arranged at forehand now then, right?
Minato: Yep, and I for one can't wait.
As the four of them were heading over a hill, the rising red sun shone on their path, as if guiding them on their now-to-begin Journey.
[...]
As time passed by and our four heroes had journeyed across several places and met a lot of different people, they now found themselves three months after they first headed out, as they were walking down a road leading out of a deep and vast forest.
Gaara: So I guess we should find a place to sleep for the night? It's getting dark already.
Minato: Haha, are we sure we're not lost?
Sasuke: Don't be ridicules, we know exactly were we're going kiddo.
Naruto: Well yeah, I think I've heard of a village not too far from here if we're following the right coordinates-... There! That's the Riverbed we met up at about three months ago Gaara.
Pointing to their right, they could see the far-stretching river right below them as the they were passing by the edge of a hill.
Naruto: That means we're on the right track.
Minato: If we are, we should hurry up, it's really starting to get dark.
Naruto: Yeah... No reason to rush though.
Sasuke: ...
Gaara: So how old are you anyways Minato if I may ask?
Minato: Oh, me? I'm seven actually.
Gaara: Seven huh...
Minato: How come?
Gaara: I was actually thinking about how your training has been so far and how much you've progressed already, so I felt like I had to ask how old you really were, haha.
Minato: I see...
Gaara: You've really got some talent kid, that is for sure, but I guess it's no wonder why, since you have both Uchiha and Uzumaki blood, and not to forget Hyuga blood as well.
Minato: Geez, well thanks, means a lot coming from you Gaara-San. But where is all of these sudden praises coming from?
Gaara: Well you're a special case... Unlike your father Jiraiya, you seem to have inherited the Byakugan from your grandmother Hinata and your aunt, Kushina... But not only that, you've also inherited the Sharingan from your mother as well. Having the ability to both awaken the Sharingan and the Byakugan with your eyes, and turn them on and off as you like, really is a... rare case. I can't remember it happening before to be honest. And with the proper training, you might be able to learn to use them both at once, one with each eye, instead of having to only use one ability at a time...
Minato: Well like you said, I do have a strong bloodline, right grandpas?
Naruto: Haha, don't get ahead of yourself now.
Sasuke: That goes for you too Gaara, haha.
Gaara: Haha, yeah...
Sasuke: So anyways, now that it's been three months since the two of you stepped down... How do you feel? Does it feel strange walking among us normal people again?
Gaara: Normal people?? Well...
Naruto: I got to admit that it kind of feels great to some extent... However, I do believe that it is mainly due to the fact that my son took over, and it's kind of a relief to know that he'll be able to pull off the job just as decent as I did... Other than that, I do believe that I now understand how Hiruzen Sarutobi must have felt it when he stepped down so that my father could take his place... It's not that he couldn't do the job anymore, but that it was time for the next generation to shine.
A smile formed on his face as he started to reminiscing the old times.
Gaara: Well Naruto, we're still only 48 years old, so I guess you could say that it's not entirely the same, haha, but yeah, that feeling is mutual... It really is a relief to have a change for once... The new generations of Kages are most likely going to make us proud.
Naruto: Indeed.
Sasuke: Hmm...
Minato: Look, there's a town up ahead! Guess you were right after all guys!
Naruto: Haha, what, did you expect otherwise?
Gaara: We might be getting older, but we're far from senile just yet!
Sasuke: I guess we'll spend the next few days there then...
Naruto: Right. We'll grab some food and find a place to sleep for the night... Starting tomorrow, we'll begin the next step of your training, Minato.
Minato: Yosh, can't wait!
As the thick forest came to an end, the four of them were standing on top of a high hill as the road led downward through a narrow and steep path, leading towards a rather large and vast village laying in front of them. A village that looked quiet and deserted for its vast size... It laid in the heart of the line between the Fire, Wind and Earth countries, and it was a village rather unknown to our four heroes at this time. During the past three years however, corruption and violence had been growing rapidly within the village, as a large band of thugs had made it its secret homebase, taking over the entire village and ruling over it against the people's will. All this, unbeknownst to Naruto, Gaara, Sasuke and Minato of course, who were just about to make a long awaited encounter with the infamous lot, and one man in particular, would have a surprising and anticipated encounter with family from the village he abandoned all those years ago.
*New trouble arise on the horizon!!*
~ End Chapter 28
* Seven and a half years had passed since Itachi left Konoha with a band of thugs... Would fate have it so that he would finally come face to face with his dad again? What threat could this band of thugs pose to our four heroes? Find out next time as the story comes even closer to its end! *
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Fun Facts & Author's Note:
1: After a big ass chapter 27, I was trying to trim the length of this one down to a minimum, but it still turned out to be of some length in the end, haha. So yeah, after hearing a lot lately that the only thing I can (I doubt that it's the only thing, but oh well xP) improve on is narrative and giving out more descriptions, I finally sat down and started picturing how most of my created characters actually looked like (I've barely had a personal view on how most of them looked like before now actually, which is a bit strange really). Some of which I've faintly hinted at before, but never gone into full detail. What I can't help wonder though, is if the description I gave out shattered any mirrors out there? xD I mean, even if I hadn't really pictured how some of them looked, I'm sure you had, haha, and some of you probably didn't think Jiraiya or even Kushina looked like how I described them, no? The fact that I've barely given out detail throughout my story, has mainly been because I've always liked to leave the imagination up to the readers as much as I can, and since this is indeed a Naruto fic after all, I felt that it has been a fitting theme so far. But alas, I figured I would deal with that "issue" once and for all, now that I was, and am, this close to the end of things.
2: The whole flashback scene with Itachi visiting Mu, was actually an idea that I got inspired by Danivass to do, so creds to you my friend for inspiring me, haha ^_^ In fact, this whole chapter was actually planned to only consist of Naruto, Sasuke, Minato and Gaara, but then I figured I would have to flesh it out a bit by bringing in other scenes as well, which I'm glad I did in the end.
3: Something which have been driving me through the whole of this sequel, is actually the fact that I planned out (and then I mean planned out) the three final chapters in such details, even before I begun writing the sequel, that I almost could just be copying and pasting from my notes, haha xD For instance, the half of next chapter (or about that) has a very long "Bar Scene" that I wrote way, way back in time, and when I was about to pick up chapter 29 again, I realized that the scene was last edited in "January 2012," which is even before I started writing the first chapter of this sequel (released in March 2012)! O__O Of course, I would have to tweak it to match my "current writing skills," but in overall, I kept most of the original script of it. I'll go more in detail about this scene once the next chapter is released, as I don't want to spoil anything just yet, haha
That's all I have for now, hope you enjoyed this chapter, Thank me thumbs up if you did, and as always people, have an awesome day ;D
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