Fox in the rain (naruto fanfic)

EsamaFOX IN THE RAIN Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 1 – BLOODY OCEAN His mind was rippling. Slowly going up and down like waves on a shore, trying to reach higher but eventually withdrawing again, pulled by greedy gravity that never let its children go. Rings danced over the waves, rings within rings, at the corners, at the middle, in the edges, fractal patterns that never ended, never really began. But rings had no corners. Just like ocean waves weren't made of thoughts. He closed his eyes and tried to remember. To think, to reach for knowledge he somehow felt he had once possessed. A mind. He had once had a mind. And now it was rushing up and down along the shoreline of his consciousness, trying to reach him, falling a little short each time. There were bubbles rising from the ocean of memories and knowledge, drifting upwards towards the endless red sky, never to be seen again. The ocean was steaming, smoking, bubbling. Boiling to nothingness. Soon… soon his mind would be gone, vaporised to the air. But he didn't feel panic, sadness, terror or anything at all. His mind was going, going… soon gone, and he didn't really mind. The thought of a thought amused him for a moment before it too seemed to drift away. He almost, just barely, could recall something as a wisp of steam memories brushed along his cheek. Maybe it was the memory of having a cheek. Having a body. A life. A name and a family, of sorts. Memory of a home, of a duty, of a responsibility, maybe. This was his responsibility. The thought soared over the boiling ocean that was fading to the blood sky. Yes. Yes! This here was his responsibility. His duty. Self appointed mission. Ah yes, he had missions. Of course. Shinobi had missions. He had missions. Duties… responsibilities. This here, watching the ocean of his mind fade away, was his last one. He breathed in the moist breeze of his mind and remembered love and hate and agony of loneliness. It had been like that so often, hadn't it? But soon it too would be gone. Along with everything else. His cheek and body and the memory of having them. His Shinobi life and missions and duties and responsibilities, his love and his hate and his loneliness. Soon they'd all be gone. That was good. Smiling faintly, he walked along the shoreline. The ocean seemed red. Maybe it was the sky colouring it, or maybe the ocean was made of blood. He thought it was the latter rather than the former. There was something odd about it, now that he thought of it. It wasn't supposed to be red. Or ocean. There wasn't supposed to be sky. Hadn't there been a ceiling there once, and walls, and a cage…? Yes, he could remember that, just barely. It hadn't been red. Murky greys and charcoal blacks, fading hues of deepest blue. Only glint of red in midst of the shadows. How had it grown so widely? Because he had killed it. Of course, of course. He nodded in sudden realisation. That was right. The thing inside him that had been there since his birth. It was torn apart, splattered along the insides of his mind. And that was why it had to fade, why it was his duty. The point in all of this. It made perfect 1 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN sense. That was why his mind needed to fade. That was why he needed to die. Die? He stopped to contemplate the notion. Right. Die. People died left and right, up and down, all the time. Some he had known, others he had only learned to know afterwards, others he hadn't even heard of before. Some he had seen, others heard of. Some had been close, others mere acquaintances, lot unknown and un-met and rest had been enemies. Some he had tried to save and failed, some he had fought along with and watched die, some he had fought against… some he had killed. Dying, so many did it, had done it, would do it. His turn now. He nodded, sitting down to the sand only to realise that it was rustic red and disgusting. Clotted and crispy and dried up here and there. Everything was made of blood. He laughed. What a morose mindscape his mind had became. Not a bad time for such a responsibility to take it away. Not a bad time for it all to fade to nothingness. Naruto breathed in his memories and lay down on the dried up blood of the Kyuubi's victims. He crossed his hands behind his neck and smiling faintly stared up to the violent red sky. It was raining blood. It was a good time to die. x There were many types of people in the world. There were those who walked along the streets. Those who tracked up winding paths in the grass. There were those who climbed along rocky mountain trails. Those who walked along rapidly flowing rivers. Then, somewhere, there were those who walked on the rooftops. Those who ran over the grass without disturbing single blade. There were those who walked up the mountain's vertical side. Those who crossed over the water's surface light as a feather. And finally, there were those who didn't have to. Somewhere there was always that one person who sat at the streets side, at the grass, on some rock at the mountain side, on the river bench. Those who were content there, without going anywhere, without heading anywhere and without doing anything. Naruto would've been one of those people had it not been for other people. The villagers who walked along the streets, the villains who tracked along the winding paths in the grass, the random passers by lantern lights, the fishermen at the rivers. And the ninja everywhere. The teacher at the rooftop, the girl in the grass, the boy by the fire, and the man atop the waves. He had wanted to become Hokage - so that people would acknowledge him. He had wanted to become strong - so that he could protect his cherished people. He had wanted to fight - to bring his precious people back together. Had there been no one there, Naruto would've sat down at the road side and idly watched people go by. Itachi was certain that he would've sat there only as long as the road would've been empty - then he would've picked the first person he saw to follow and cherish. Nagato was sure he would've sat there until something bad would've happened - he would've only gotten up to stop it. Naruto didn't really care either way. He had been fine the way he had been and he was fine dying the way he was going to die. He didn't care what he had been in some symbolic, 2 He frowned. There was a reason. Had there been a battle. "A carriage. Not the world. It was familiar. He could almost see. That part of his mind was gone. Save Sasuke. Naruto had made them. Something was coming. It would serve no purpose. but he couldn't recall the name of the shape. And like this. That was good enough for him. Or maybe the Kyuubi's mind. The sound of the waves was cut by the sound of the wild splashing and confused Naruto looked up from the fading wisp of his mind. By dying here and letting what remained of the Kyuubi to fade. It was a thing for moving. Change everything. Naruto tuned them out and idly tried to remember why he was dying here and now. Because he already was. But nothing was pulling it. Something was coming closer. over the ocean of his mind. First time in years. Save the world. monsters. And maybe it didn't matter what it was. pushing himself up from the drying blood of long dead people and looked ahead. The thing coming closer was shaped somehow. most of the motivations had already vaporised to the blood sky. Fast. But of course at that point most of the reasons were fading to red. He'd be gone. feel it. but he couldn't remember what it was made of. It wouldn't manipulate anyone. but he couldn't remember what it was. Not Sasuke. knowing he'd carry on their legacy. long years filled with misery and pain and guilt so overwhelming that they had designed their very own deaths. blown the fox apart so violently that it had dyed his insides with red? How had he known how to do that? Had it been a plan? Whose? His? Someone else's? The Kyuubi's? He closed his eyes and let the steam whisk the thoughts away. It wasn't supposed to. Better not to wonder. they had hope." voice spoke behind him and he looked up to see fallen enemies looking down on him. He was. It wasn't good enough for Nagato. Soon it would be over. Almost like being pulled. Happy. It wasn't good enough for Itachi.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN metaphorical level. No regrets. And it had been as painful as it had been beautiful and it had been because of him. was Madara somewhere. Brighter. This wasn't. But Itachi and Nagato weren't satisfied. Or maybe it was chakra. It was moving. gods of their own design. So stop it. And this was not what they had hoped for. x Blood splattered and ocean waved restlessly left and right. Everything would be gone. he would make sure the monster of Madara's design would never be completed. Beautiful. Naruto closed his eyes against the wisps of memories. had he been captured. Steady. 3 . Spinning wooden wheels crossed over the red surface as if it was nothing but a puddle in a street's side. but he didn't mind. He was disappointing them. He had been fine. "I can't change anything. Change it. murderers. They had inhaled and exhaled their last breaths in hope. It wouldn't rise. He had odd feeling that it was meant to be moved. in long. It had supposed to be better." But they had had hope. They had given up. looming over his body… was Sasuke? Had he himself killed the Kyuubi inside him. They had died believing. Feel hope. assassins. All I can do is stop it from getting worse. Magnificent. He had been there. "Shouldn't I stay here? I'm supposed to fade away." the enemies. Histories. had been only way to stop… something. He could remember wood. He could sense it. friends. Maybe he was. they all were. They were inside his head. said. Maybe he should've been interested. taking him a way." One of them . powers. They were pushing him towards the carriage now." one of the two said. as it stood at the edge of the liquid blood. Of course. they thought. feeling tired and lifeless. they answered and the carriage door closed between him and them. He couldn't remember what had happened . He could feel it all inside his head. like wanting to say or do something. Change what? He thought back. robbed of his only chance of resting. "Not like this. Sad.they were so similar in so many ways. and tried to figure out what was the meaning behind that. it had been brought down once. across the blood ocean. Brothers. It made no sense. was a transport. It was oddly blissful sensation." Not like this. in appearance and in memories. "Where will it take me?" he asked as he was helped to climb the single wooden step up to sit inside. that. the few times he had visited the Hyuuga clan grounds. of his favourite ramen stand.only that there had been a reason and his dying like this. of the Uchiha Estate. Across everything and into nothing. door open for him. Wooden. Lot of people had died.or how come the Kyuubi was nothing but ocean and sky and shoreline of blood instead of the vicious fox it had been. Once upon a time. brothers. Friends. Demon extraction? Maybe that was it. But he didn't feel like it. Naruto didn't bother fighting against the man . sad memories. Carriage. The wooden bench and walls of the carriage reminded him of Hidden Leaf. waiting for him. It came from trees. across the bloody mind. but the carriage was already moving. not really interested now that the question of what it is had been answered. His cheap apartment.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "For?" he asked lying down again. Of a room and a bed and ceiling which had often rang with hollow echoes of footsteps coming from above. Enemies. By Nagato. Transport for him? "Why?" he asked. But perhaps Itachi and Nagato were right in their own way. But he could hardly think at all. sad memories. "For me?" he instead asked. 4 . And been revived. The carriage's odd. You promised. he recalled dazedly. Not like this. across the blood sky. He made it sound like there was something wrong with this." "No. he tried to call back. Naruto didn't think so. He closed his eyes. so it could be that the man was right. soft rattle around him reminded him of something. So much wood. that it was hard to tell them apart . He had liked trees. You were supposed to change it. He still couldn't remember how he was dying or why . "Back. make him say or do something.little point in that. Even the carriage. Everything. 'Everything' was a big concept. x Naruto was remembering more.reached to pull him up. "For you. They gave him a look. the people missed. Shino. He hadn't kept his promises. What about Sai. He regretted not being able to bring him back for Sakura. Broken. "I regret. Broken. Do things you will never ever regret. And he regretted that. Die before anyone can use you. if he had been a better friend it would've never needed to happen. But it wasn't exactly very rewarding. Tenten… what about Gaara and the Sand-nin. He had promised to help someone. Why had they made him remember again? "I regret. the beliefs met and crushed and changed and the one that had remained always strong.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN It had been a very… dutiful death. How many other promises had he broken? He had promised to go out for some ramen to someone. what about the rest. He regretted never visiting Hidden Sand during the three years. Broken. Had there been a fight. He regretted not being there for Sakura. bring peace. Shikamaru. what about Hinata. But he regretted now. Because it was his Nindo? Yes. Chouji. live… he hadn't and he hadn't and he hadn't. All he had been able to was to state the current 5 . like another person no matter how she had tried to hide it. Kiba. Broken. And he had made so many of them too." he whispered." He regretted going away for so many years. stop Sasuke. Neji. there should've been something he could've done. He hadn't been able to write a long winded letter. Live without regrets. He regretted for that whole mission to retrieve him. almost cold missive. so many had gotten so badly hurt. He had promised. Ino. she had grown so cold and odd in his absence. One of them had been to Tsunade at the end of the three years of travel. A short. He regretted the Third Hokage's death." The fights. Damn Itachi and Nagato. He had been too guilty to even try and defend himself. He regretted Haku's and Zabuza's death. "I regret dying. and Yamato. How many people had he left behind? Was Sakura alive? Was Sasuke? Kakashi? He couldn't remember. He had been fine dying the way he had. what about everyone? He couldn't remember. Lee. maybe if he had been stronger he could've defeat Orochimaru in the forest. He had promised to stay strong and proud. He regretted Sasuke's betrayal. he would've liked to congratulate Gaara personally. "I regret. it would've been sight worthy of seeing. had they died. he might've grown stronger but he grew apart. He regretted not being able to do that in the end. hadn't been able to give his excuses or explain the situation fully." he whispered. The carriage rattled on. Broken. informing that Jiraiya had been wounded while they had been training and that Naruto's own first aid skills wouldn't keep him alive for long. x Naruto had written two letters while he had been travelling with Jiraiya. the fights fought won and lost. there had been so much to learn but he had only scratched the surface of that tutelage. Live without regrets. He regretted not being there to see Hinata grow strong and proud. Become Hokage. the promises. He regretted not learning as much as he should've from Jiraiya. was that how he had ended up dying? He couldn't remember. He had promised to be there for someone some day. crusted blood. It wouldn't help to delay the inevitable. and discard it again. And maybe. The truth of life. he would think about and realise that longed salt shaker was actually him and the broken pair of chopsticks were Naruto and Sakura and the chipped bowl barely able to hold the ramen in it was Kakashi. Maybe one day Sasuke would find it. The first thing Naruto noticed that the liquid underneath wasn't blood red or blood and that the shoreline wasn't made of dried. There was a mist and a soft breeze and neither held memories or scent of regret. the secret messages. And this. He would read it. Second letter he had written had been to no one. Tsunade had sent Shizune to them.. it had been a piece of scroll stuffed to a sake bottle Jiraiya had emptied that evening. keeping him going. few days or weeks or years later. had to be inevitable. not sure if he wanted to know where Nagato and Itachi had delivered him. contained in lament of a ramen bowl. dropped to a small stream. Maybe he'd realise that the bloody nose gotten during training was the blood Neji had bled during the recovery mission. 6 . they weren't going to give up. realise that the mention of the little leaf rushing about was Konohamaru and that the diamond in a tree was Tsunade and that though he was a pervert and lout.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN situation and not the events leading to it. Jiraiya was still a good teacher. considering the people behind it. constricted to words about training and travelling. Naruto looked outside the window to the surface of the blood ocean. it or the pain and hope it had been written with. hesitating. the tears Sakura had cried before and after wards. that though nothing was perfect and there were so many arguments and fights left unfinished. think it stupid. Maybe he'd realise the meaning of the bowl and ramen and the broken tools and that he'd know everything. somewhere at the shore of the Sanzu river. existence and everything. Maybe he would realise the hidden meanings. The carriage had washed up on shore somewhere. Instead the liquid was clear. sending Naruto down from the bench and on his knees on the floor. He reached for the door. Nothing significant.. A lonely sake bottle was drifting there. and was now the blood beating through Naruto's heart. water. Shizune had never asked what had happened. Or maybe it would be the Third Hokage who would find it. Amused. Or maybe someone completely unconnected would find it and read it and never understand it. And he'd understand immediately. It had been a short letter full of hidden meanings and inside jokes no one would understand. and his very own way of looking at life. A message in a bottle . he felt. He blinked with confusion. And the shoreline was made of sand and rocks and few patches of wildly growing reeds.literally. that they were taken cared of. And so the odd letter would travel from hand to hand and no one would ever understand it. before sighing. they'd shove the message back to the bottle and leave it to float along for the next person to find and bemuse over. for a moment wondering what had happened. before deciding to find out instead of wondering. of secret confessions hidden as every day chatter. His wishes and dreams and believes. That things were alright. x The carriage jolted sharply. Then it stopped. Or a memory. Just moist fractions of some rocks and stones long since ground fine by time and ocean waves. what had happened. He had been there before. But the bridge wasn't there. The shoreline seemed… familiar. he remembered it. Naruto stumbled forward. A technique. Purely. This didn't feel like his mind at all. no blood. staring around him. His legs gave away and he fell to the line between sand and water.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN When he stepped down. Most likely. But what end? Change? Change of what? The mist was clearing. fighting weakness and gravity. it was hard to see… was it an ocean? Or a lake? It made no sense. He breathed in. where was he. It felt so real. to the moist sand. Instead there was a ferry slowly floating in the waves. some trees and reeds and grass . It felt so real. He had a feeling he had gotten some splinters. Nothing. His finger tips arched where they had harshly rubbed against the wood of the carriage. and his sandals were already wet. So real. there had been a bridge. His mind wasn't like this. No memories. He had fought it. "Nagato?" he tried again. But of course it had been a technique. as did the bite of a sharp stone under his knee. he was sure of it. But hadn't there been a bridge there? Yes. he thought and forced himself to his feet. Itachi was good at Genjutsu. Maybe a nightmare or possibly a Genjutsu. he peered into the fading mist. The water soaked right through his pants immediately. Except he already knew they wouldn't have many answered even if they were real in the first place. almost falling to the sand again. He needed to find out where he was. his fingers reaching to touch the sand. he knew it. Without anything to go by. so odd. he was sure of it. Right where he was. and with a look of expectation Naruto glanced around. trying to stay upright. Everything was covered in mist. with fire at his side and against ice. sharply physical and not in the least mental. the weight of his own body and sudden weakness coursing through his limbs almost brought him to his knees. It was fading now. he knew that better than most. This could be a dream. they'd be able to answer him and tell him what was going on. He took support of the carriage. Had to see and ask and try and understand. And again nothing. some sort of illusion or ninja art designed to hide his arrival with the carriage. The carriage had been a creation by Nagato and Itachi. Turning around. This was the passage to the Land of the Waves. towards what looked like a dock far in the distance. a technique most likely born out of nothing to work as their means to an end. Memories had pain. Maybe that had been a technique too. Frowning. He stumbled.only thing fading in this so very real place. normal beach giving away into a normal forest. There was no bridge there. of course. Normal shore leading into a normal ocean. Where were the Kyuubi's remains? The blood? The memories? The regrets? "Itachi?" he called. A fight had been fought there. massive bridge. Great. There would be people there.regardless of whether that water was actually water or bloody memories. But he had to know. his mind couldn't make sense of anything. He had to get to the dock. nor in its unfinished one. just to be sure. but not like this. It wasn't until he heard the poof of chakra based illusion dispersing that he realised the fragility of the carriage he had sat in. all he could see was the mixture of charkas quickly fading into the air . seeing more water and more shoreline. gravity relentlessly bending his knees and bringing them down again. Naruto fell. But there was no bridge there. Neither in its completed form. 7 .bushes here and there. Carriages didn't appear out of nowhere pulled by nothing and travel by themselves over the water's surface . He kept going. He had Jiraiya and visited it once. he made it. Jiraiya had wanted to see the new Mizukage… it seemed like ages ago. Like the fact that he wasn't dying like planned and this wasn't the bloody realm of his mind. The blade was dull and rough. confused. even alarmed. Had he had the energy. He wondered if he'd make it there before it would. Probably not. Metal against metal sounded in the hazy. Tingle of pain. He was good at ignoring things Slowly the dock came closer. He had more pressing matters to concentrate onto. The ferry was reaching the doc faster. empty at the time. It was a simple thing. drawing attention to himself. He fell a few times. The poor state made it no less threatening as it pressed against Naruto's throat. taking support from the few trees growing close enough. once. From Leaf. using what little he had left of his energy for chakra walk would be a waste. and the ferry was going faster. Things were a bit blurry. He was holding a rusty spear with long. because he had already forgotten what he had supposed to be answering. "Are you a Shinobi? From Leaf or from Mist? Answer me!" Naruto blinked and then glanced around him. "Answer me!" the man demanded again and the blade brushed against Naruto's skin. Naruto blinked. As the man's eyes widened. Absently he touched his chest. the water soaking through his sandals even worse. "Where is this?" Naruto asked instead. the dock. some time after the fourth Mizukage had been assassinated and the fifth one had taken control. He ignored it and the splashing of his footsteps against the water. Maybe it had been. The people first to get off board ran straight off the dock and into the forest without looking back. had he had the strength to use chakra. and weakly climbed onto the concrete. making him blink with confusion and then look at him more closely. a booth for some sort of register there. People rushed out. more of due to harsh rub rather than because of a cut. Of course. and sting of pain ran through his foot. After what felt like eternity. tense quiet and he found himself surrounded by blades on all sides as the people from the ferry more or less apprehended him. Right." someone said in hushed tones and a plank was set between the dock and the ferry. he would've been surprised. making them make squishy sounds as he walked. It was only then he realised he his clothes were covered in red from everywhere except from the knees where the water had washed some of it away.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN His toe hit against a shoreline rock. hurry up. Naruto looked down to himself. He could've walked upon it. "Who are you?" the man who had been telling people to hurry demanded to know. albeit chipped blade. a plain block of concrete with a sort of pavilion on top of it. and then looked at his hand. yes. step by faltering step. Shinobi? Yes he was. The ferry itself wasn't exactly complicated either and it looked like it had gone through some rough times.he could barely stay upright as it was. When had he been wounded? Before or after the mindscape? Or maybe it wasn't blood at all. It hadn't stained. It was already dried up. just in time to see the ferry settle beside the dock. But he had been in Hidden Mist too. He was slow. his pant knees soaking with water and staining with moist sand. So instead he kept going. carrying boxes and bags and rucksacks. "Excuse -" he stared. looking like they were running away or something. He didn't even bother to try . 8 . "Where am I?" The questions seemed to take out some fire from the man's fury. He ignored it. but all he could do was blink and sigh. He needed to know what Nagato and Itachi had done. "Hurry up. the bag of potato chips rustling as Chouji got another handful." someone murmured nervously. "We can't leave him. this time with less anger. "He must be a half-wit. Naruto didn't answer. "Tempest. like Sasuke calling him useless. Studiously he brought a finger to his mouth to taste the blood. She had always been a tempest." Someone took hold of Naruto's upper arms he didn't notice.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN but the colour of memories.he can tell we were here and where we went. if he had killed someone or some thing. It had gotten under his fingernails. if his mind had been altered. "Maybe he was attacked…" Naruto tasted another finger. Someone even wondered if he had been tortured. Naruto closed his eyes. grab him. "What?" someone asked with surprise. Right. wondering if he had been attacked. staring at his hand instead. It fit Sakura." "Right. Shikamaru muttering about how tiring it all was. The blood tasted like Kakashi's sigh. you two. "Everything will be ruined if he can point Shinobi to our direction. 9 ." Naruto repeated eying his fingers with wonder. like Sakura's punch. His nails were red too. or if he had been put under Genjutsu. "Tempest. he had touched the bloody beach. Would all of them have memories in them? He tried a third one and smiled. The next bit of blood tasted like Gaara and the tailed demons and the pain of loneliness. Good memories. lingering to his clothes? Neither concept made much sense. Not so good memories." Naruto murmured and smiled. "How did he end up in this sort of state?" a woman's voice asked. What if someone finds him . It tasted like lecture from Iruka-sensei and like the wood of the chopsticks at Ichiraku. licking the blood underneath the fingernail. or if he had fought someone. We need to get a move on." someone murmured. "What is your name?" the man asked. Ino punching the air with vigour. The people around him talked. Naruto was dragged along. scurried along the forest like there was some sort of nameless terror behind them. No. It felt and smelled and seemed like reality and for a Genjutsu it was too weird.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 2 – WANDERING CARNIVAL They walked. He should thank her for looking after him. Arashi. They took Naruto's clothes to be washed . Genjutsu usually had a point. where he was? Who were the people around him? Where had they come from and where were they going? And where were everyone? Kakashi and Sakura and everyone else? Hadn't they been there? He couldn't remember. "Arashi?" he asked instead. "Here. Where was the battle he had lost or the situation where he had given up . "I'm Shindoi. what little was left of them anyway. And these forests looked quite like the forests of Fire. Besides.scent of blood attracted beasts of animal and human kind after all. pulling the robe over his naked form." Naruto stared at the robe uncomprehendingly for a moment before looking up to her. The shoreline had looked so much like the coast between Fire Country and Land of the Waves. sitting down beside him with a sigh and pulling her travel boots off. And he was somewhere weird and still familiar. Nagato and Itachi had done something to deliver him here. A strong woman. 10 . it would've made less sense than that and been a whole lot more painful. hiding in the woods and bushes and hurriedly fetching water to wash up and make food. This situation didn't seem to have any. but he figured it might do so later on so it was safe to concentrate onto other things. and they didn't want either after them. He didn't mind too much. But they weren't there. haste making each step fast and sloppy. this was reality. All so familiar. except running away from something towards something. handing a piece of cloth to him. but it made sense that they would've been there. manhandled. Why still didn't make much sense to him." she said while pulling a bottle of water closer and using it to wash her feet. A plain dark robe." a woman said. Letting someone else decide where to go and what to do gave him the chance to sort out his thoughts." she answered. with what little there was left of Akatsuki. guided. This was reality.where was Madara and his demon extraction? Nothing less would drive him to mental suicide he had been committing before his past enemies had come to make him change things." Naruto answered confusedly. "I'm not Arashi. Why would someone make a Genjutsu of civilians running in a forest? And if Itachi had been behind it. carried. But if he was home then where were the people of home? Had they left him behind? Or had whatever Itachi and Nagato done made him leave them behind? They stopped running only when it got dark. ran. Her feet were blistered. The band of civilians stopped by a river side. She was middle aged and tired but had fire in her pale grey eyes fit for a Shinobi. "You said that's your name. He vaguely remembered she had been dragging him along most of the time. "You can wear it while they wash your clothes. Like. "What war?" he asked confusedly." she answered steadily and concentrated on her soup as well. Nothing else. After hanging it to a bush near by. The war against Madara? "The Second Great Shinobi War. "How are your feet?" He looked down to see that even his sandals had been undressed while he had been wondering about things. Something was… just wrong. Something was wrong. "Here. We wanted to leave. no weapons . But he couldn't figure out what." she murmured but ate it all with fervour. of course." The young ninja stared at her. and pair of well worn sandals. It wasn't any safer there than anywhere elsewhere as far as he knew. It looked alright. No gear. Water Country then? He frowned. "Better here than there." she finally answered. which were soaked through and through but no longer dyed by red. Safety reasons." Shindoi said after returning. whispering quietly among themselves and seeking comfort from each other. "Arashi. best keep it to yourself.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Well whatever you are. He had thought the Fifth Mizukage was peaceful." the woman grinned mirthlessly. it was less safe there. "Bleh." he answered. And where had they found the time to start a civil war with the whole mess with Madara and Akatsuki going on? "So you ran to the Land of Fire?" he asked confusedly. "It's not like there's not war here. so it might be that it's gonna be over soon. And they're in a ceasefire and have been for months. of course." Naruto looked up to her. "We're running to find a better place to be. what about the smaller wars and the invasions and the revolts what about Madara and Akatsuki? Sure the latter wasn't exactly common knowledge among civilians but even they should' know. She only looked up as another woman came to deliver them bowls of soup.not even his headband. but everyone say that the war's gonna end eventually. Curiously he pulled one of his feet to his lap and inspected it." Naruto eyed her silently for along while before turning his attention to the bowl. 11 . She was holding his clothes." Around them the illegal immigrants were settling down to rest. handing one of them to Naruto. "Why are we running?" The woman didn't answer at first. "Better chance of surviving here than there. leaving him alone to contemplate what she had said. "There's a civil war going on where we came from. the country was too small. Naruto did the same and once he had finished she took their bowls away. Second Great Shinobi War? What about the Third Great Shinobi War. like it could offer him some answers. he kept staring at it. At least when compared to the Fourth Mizukage. Shindoi isn't my name either. you know. It was tasteless. It didn't. concentrating onto cleaning her own feet. Naruto looked at his clothes and frowned. "They're fine." Shindoi answered with a shrug. uncomprehending. Civil war? None of those in Wave. holding to the wet jacket. huh?" he murmured. what with the Kage Summit and all… "Are you sure?" he asked and carefully he tried the soup. rather than to stay and die. No one here there uses the name that actually belongs to them. If anything. crossing his feet in his lap and pulling the robe tighter over him. blinking with confusion. "Hang them on a bush or something and they might even dry before morning. Orange pants and jumper. I suppose so. "It sounds like you're going to be blown away by a stray wind. the undergrowth tangling at their feet. between Lands of Fire. Not knowing what else to do. It all seemed like illusion. They weren't bad company after they had figured that he wasn't a half wit or insane or going to report them to some authority. shaking her head with amusement." Naruto answered. Just like his own. but… something told him not to go. was determined to keep them off the roads for now. Anjuu Shindoi sounds official. but he knew that going to Hidden Leaf would've been somehow a bad idea. but when Naruto thought it seemed plausible. There was some sort of revolution going on in the Country of Lightning and of course the civil war in Country of Water and who knew what was going on the smaller boarder countries. he knew. According to everyone he had talked to. here in Fire Country. they could've created it." Naruto answered a bit amusedly. His father's name was Namikaze but he couldn't use that either for too many reasons. but none of his reasoning abilities as things still kept making no sense. He could've gone to Hidden Leaf. Maybe they all would be. a man named Gentaru. He wasn't sure." "Maybe I will be. With Nagato's wishes. Wind and Earth. like four months of peace was a huge deal. Something like… Anjuu Shindoi?" the woman said pushing aside a branch that had almost hit her face. "Hm. Instinct. What about you?" Naruto thought about it." he said after moment of thought. They had a direction they were going. dreams and memories and Itachi's abilities. Or maybe it was fact that the forest around him seemed just slightly off somehow. "That's not a real name. they all believed that the Second Great Shinobi War was still going on. It was common enough and was kind of similar. However the leader of their group.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN x Some rest and warm food returned most of his usual strength to Naruto. but as this was game of fake names he couldn't use it." "Not really. or maybe it was Itachi or Nagato. Enjoying. So he followed the civilians from Water Country. "Like Arashi is any better. throwing her head back so that her hair was whisked behind her shoulder. albeit on a temporary ceasefire. some place they were heading and Naruto hoped that place could offer him some more answers than the refugees had. "And just weird enough to pass as real name too. He had been Uzumaki all his life. Apparently he was sure that they'd be caught if they'd use the actual streets. The forest around them was thick and uncomfortable. and who knew what else. And Country of Fire was apparently enjoying its fourth month of continuous peace. he followed the refugees. "You know. Weird illusion. They still didn't trust him and all names they gave to him echoed fake. "Kazama. maybe." he said while walking instep with Shindoi." the woman shrugged her shoulders before." Shindoi answered. It wasn't the only war going on either. Sounds neat. As far 12 . "Kazama Arashi. And war had apparently been doing on for a while now. you need to pick family names too or people are going to be suspicious. falling in step with their slow pace even though by now he could've launched ahead and left them all to his dust. Place to live. Except something was different about these refugees. this was the time of Nagato's life when he had been… set on his path. "Travel. Madara. in. runaways and survivors of destroyed nations. looking around." Naruto mumbled. Itachi probably wanted to change everything. and us. probably since the start of the war." Shindoi shrugged her shoulders while hoisting her backpack a little higher to her shoulder. Not many places want to take people like these. "It's not easy. Except… except. 13 . those are from the Country of White Trees. It was set up in a small clearing in the woods. Should be better here . x On the fourth day of forest trekking. The usual. most which didn't exist anymore and rest which were always on the brink of war from one reason or another. So. from over dozen countries. far from sight. refugees. "Not that many jobs around for anyone back where we came from. Akatsuki." she shrugged.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN as Naruto could remember. this was where it would begin. And those guys there. War refugees. Their delusions and illusions could change nothing. So many people from so many tragic situations. "Find work. "So." Shindoi explained. far from towns or villages or commonly used roads. "What do they do?" he asked in wonder. it was taken over by Lightning country in the first years of the war…" She kept going on and on and almost startled Naruto stared at the people. Uchiha massacre… if not for anyone else's sake. for a refugee. actually. though. And those over there. homely Fire Country tent. "See. He supposed that was why he was there as well. It was sometime before the end of the Second Great Shinobi War that Nagato's friend had died and he and his other friend had taken over Hidden Rain… If Nagato wanted to change something. And Naruto would resume his death in the bloody mindscape. place to live in peacefully. For one. it was probably his friend's death. looking for a place to fit in." Naruto frowned and glanced at her. the whole lot of them. thrown together. they didn't seem to be all from Water country." "I suppose. Hard to live. The Genjutsu would wear out eventually. what are you going to do when we get… there?" Naruto made a vague motion ahead of them the direction where Gentaru was leading them. then for Sasuke's. Gentaru brought them to a small. over there? They're from the Country of Whirlpools which was consumed by another country just two years back. One single glance told Naruto that the entire camp was made of refugees like the ones he travelled with. Some here probably have been travelling their whole lives and some will probably die travelling. Not really. There were even few tents of Wind country's design in the camp. makeshift village of tents and caravans. "Does… does the country know you're here?" he asked. "Nomads. if they wanted him to change something. Hard to earn a living.that's why we're here after all. see them? They're from Country of Rain. and some from Lightning and even one of familiar. who knows how long they've been on the run. I've seen them perform.not about us. a freak show . He remembered the little kids running about in colourful clothes. The wandering Carnival. Wind too. "You think being with the Carnival is the right thing to do?" Naruto smiled and shrugged. Naruto looked. Some will probably soon leave it to look for something better. have just joined this group. He should've known. he looked up. I didn't know…" Naruto trailed away. "You know Shinobi arts. They lost one of their leading acts last winter and apparently it's been hard to make means after that. They looked at each other. He remembered hearing about it when he had been a child . He turned to the others and started explaining about sleeping arrangements and what sort of jobs they would have around the camp and stuff like that. glancing at the others. Some dozen booths. Here in Fire. civilians mostly. "Then go and tell them. and suddenly a realisation dawned. nodding towards the Carnival tents. Compared to a life of Shinobi or a Samurai. He had never given much of a thought where they had come from." "Yeah. "It'll give me something to do. probably. He also remembered the special bright red tent where Jiraiya had spend most of the festival night. he supposed. Some.not to mention about the fact that those countries are hard to survive in. though. while Shindoi turned to Naruto. but apparently no one in their group knew anything. Group of people. you should see if the Carnival can put them to use. who knows. they'd never let a group like this in . Some might even find it. though. pointing. "Fire country is good for people like us." he said. luring men with them. groups like these aren't minded as long as they don't bother people.and he had seen it twice with Jiraiya when they had been travelling. asking for pennies… so many people from so many nations. Compared to life of a tailor or a shop keeper. "They will let us join them. "They fund this group mostly." Naruto hesitated. Look over there." Shindoi answered." Gentaru said." Shindoi shrugged. the circus of course." the man said. Until the illusion would fade. There was a group of particularly colourful tents there. There had been… lot of people in the Carnival. Have been since the First Great War. I imagine it's a bit harder. Not before now. thinking back. They're pretty popular around here." she then said. "I know some." x They travelled some more. "Or so I figure anyway. "Well. It would give him something to do. travelling from town to town and holding a great big shows in which they displayed all sorts of interesting talents and tricks. "Is it hard living like this?" he asked softly. from all around the world. "Also.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "They know about these ones . if anyone here knows any Shinobi arts.even a fortune teller. like us. "Not all here are part of the Carnival of course. well…" Shindoi shrugged. Was this what the illusion wanted him to do? Shaking his head. and the women hovering around the circus tent. Arashi?" she asked worriedly. In Lightning and Earth Countries." She fell quiet and they looked up as Gentaru joined their group. this time as enormous group of nearly hundred people instead of 14 . however. For one. it wasn't Zetsu. She's 15 . Yonige. only ragged robe which looked like it had been made of a sheet." he said. "Careful there. He was starting to doubt it being an illusion. frowning. "You won't be part of the performance crew. though. it will be huge help to have some extra hands helping setting up the tents and everything. officially Genin and unofficially something whole lot stronger. Naruto jumped to the cage's side to take a better look. "Usually you see only those who trained to become Genin but failed the tests in camps like these. as you don't have an act and we're not yet sure how to put your Kage Bunshin to use. there was no Akatsuki cloak. We might put you to take care of the Creature. "We picked her from the boarder of the Grass country." Naruto had shaken his head. but he had been made part of the Carnival group. had said while he had been accommodated in the circus group's tents. It was a little awkward to stand among them. Yonige nodded backwards. Arashi." Naruto had rubbed the back of his head awkwardly while glancing at the other performers. "Do you think you could teach the Kage Bunshin to us?" someone had asked. "There's a town not far from here. to the carriage following them. She needs someone to watch over her and your Kage Bunshin could be useful in calming her down if she goes berserk. We're going to hold a performance there." a dark skinned man who had an aerobatic act." he answered. unlike Zetsu. "I'll be happy to help. "She's known for biting. but firstly Kage Bunshin was a forbidden technique only known in Leaf and secondly… it was so chakra draining that he doubted anyone here could perform it even if they knew how. And… He leaned forward. Naruto was no longer part of the refugees from Water Country." the driver called to him amusedly. There was something in the cage. "She's been nothing but a pain in the rear end since. He could've. Also. I don't think so. And of course there was the fact that everything might be illusion and thus the people around him were incapable of learning anything at all. he had only shown his most common Ninjutsu technique to the circus performers. Blinking." "What she?" Naruto murmured. leaning forward for closer look. Yonige was holding the reigns of the oxen pulling the carriage. a full fledged ninja. but most we can do is some chakra control. but you can help us set up. But… something was different. she wasn't split into two haves and was greenish white thorough. It wasn't as much a carriage as it was a cage on wheels. Frowning. Your Kage Bunshin will be really useful. "So. No. It was girl. He almost jumped back." "The what?" Naruto asked suspiciously. "Zetsu!" he hissed." the driver said. though. Even Itachi shouldn't have been able to hold one as complicated as this up for so long. It had been going over a week. if nothing else. let me tell you. Kage Bunshin had easily been enough to make him part of the crew. Mostly due to wanting to downplay his abilities and not to attract too much attention.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN measly dozen of before. "No. where are we going?" Naruto asked while walking along side one of the Carnival carriages which hold most of their supplies and performance gears. Henge and Bunshin. Naruto jogged towards it and then fell to walk beside it. "We teach each other. There were lot of them from different countries and different skill set. of course. The fly-trap appendages were unmistakable. She was probably kicked out. All offers and questions were politely shrugged off before the caravan of refugees made their way to a large clearing where they'd be able to set up the circus tent easily enough. mostly flourishing due to the fact that it was in crossing of three major routes and thus had very lively market place. Naruto kept walking along the cage's side the entire day. gossiping women and men bracing forward asking if they'd need any help setting up. "And then the red tent will go over here… better keep the fortune teller's tent away 16 . feed the animals. x The nomads planned their routes three weeks ahead. Was she really so wild.nearly killed two. This was done so that the runners of the group could go ahead and spread knowledge about the Carnival coming and pin posters for people to see. trying to find any hint of intelligence in the girl's eyes. Soon the temporal village of tents was up. we keep her around.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN attacked half a dozen people . and had been able to adjust their plans accordingly without much trouble. who was now more or less his disciple in all things Carnival related. She kept snarling. using a stick to draw enormous circle to the ground. But as people pay good money to see her. no one even paid much attention to the fact that there was whole lot more people in the caravan than the mere Carnival group. "The main tent will be right here." Yonige said to Naruto. so we haven't really been able to name her with anything better. you know. No one asked their identification or origins. Naruto soon realised. Shuji. The town they arrived was a small place. "Alright. People were so interested and curious about the Carnival itself to mind about the extra baggage it had. The girl's pale green eyes snapped open and turned to Naruto." Naruto grimaced. In few cases they had been even asked not to show up after all. have some dinner. or was she so afraid and terrified by her captivity that there was nothing else she could do? Frowning." Naruto did as ordered and together they erected their tent while all around them everyone did the same. The Director. She's not all right up there." he said. "You go fetch our tent and I'll go and see where we can set up. It wouldn't do to appear unannounced to a town just like that. sounding rather like an animal driven to a corner. that she acted like an animal. With a snarl she was on her feet and reaching for him through the bars." the driver said. majority of the Carnival group concentrated around large empty area. They were welcomed to the town by curious children. There was some measure of genius there. was pointing around the area. and after that we'll get to work on setting up the circus gear. so unintelligent. While the driver busted to merry laughter. Naruto's guts clenched with mixture of confusion and overwhelming pity for the girl. "Does she have a name?" "Nothing but Creature. There was none. making him jump pack with surprise. after all. She responds to Creature so I suppose it's fine as it is. and while most of their camp started setting up fires for cooking and stuff like that. We will set up camp first. It took lot of effort to set up the huge circus tent." The work. "While travelling you encounter all sort of stuff." He helped around some more.and all of them were weirder than each other. Henshu. Naruto was called by his Carnival-teacher "We need to get a better outfit for you." "Arashi!" Shuji called. except it had two heads and four hands. but also the props. "The tent with the Creature and some props. The other tents were easier to set up. They had even set the handful of stands for the merchants of the caravan. We'll set it up over there. Stillborn mermaid embryo maybe. he had never gotten through to the girl. Ish. "Sometimes it's even more popular than the main circus. "and some are painfully real. "Good. You go ahead. "I'm going to teach the ropes to you. It wasn't the only weird thing they were setting up . There was something inside it. they had already set up the red tent and everything else. They were still setting up some decorations and paper lamps and torches for the Carnival. "You need anything else." "Yes. "I want you with me once we start setting up. Once we've eaten. answered while carefully setting a beautiful crystal to a stand." the man. sir?" he said. While looking for something to do." the Director said. sir. Few people around him chuckled." Naruto gave a look at Creature who was hissing in her container and sighed. though. turning his back to the girl. almost snapping to attention. If she had a mind and understanding. we will get to work. People like seeing weird stuff. wasn't easy. she was very good at hiding them." Yonige said as they headed back to the tents to eat." Naruto nodded. And that's where we will set up the Freak Show…" "The Freak Show?" Naruto asked softly. and some…" he looked up as Creature's cage was brought in. with the exception of the Freak Show tent as it didn't only require setting up the tent itself. 17 . old man?" he asked instead. but by the time he was finished with the fortune teller's tent. even after eating and taking a short break. which took some carpentry. "Very… unique." Naruto awkwardly said to the Freak Show manager while setting up a mutated skeleton for display. even with so many people and handful of Naruto's clones helping. They also had to put together the seats for the guests and viewers. It took Naruto a moment to realise he was being called. And we have lot of it gathered. casually hoisting the stick he had been using to his shoulder. "I think I can get everything set by myself. Alright people. "Where have you gotten all this stuff?" "Here and there. It was a human's skeleton. that way we can have most use out of your clones. Some of these are naturally fakes. go and get some grub.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN from it this time. After days of travelling. He still hadn't gotten completely used to his new name "Yes." Yonige answered. you know. but as far as he could see they were handing it well by themselves. He looked down to his jacket. "And not one of us." Shindoi murmured. I'll have someone here get you better outfit before tomorrow. for the moment. a little offended. of watching the fires and lamps and making sure that nothing would catch fire ." Naruto made a disjointed noise. "I don't quite belong either. is it?" Yonige asked when he asked about it few dances and lot of laughing later. but they weren't Shinobi. He also had self appointed mission of keeping the order and making sure no one would start anything . "I suppose not. and few of the circus musicians were even playing. But your clothes are worn and not fit for this sort of work. Sure they were little worn. watching the dancers. They were having fun." she motioned vaguely at the customers." the elder male answered. and somewhere someone sold balloons to little kids who then raced up and down the makeshift street. "No. You know how hard it is to find decent clothes in this colour?" "No… and I don't want to find out. It was loud and warm and happy and felt rather like peace. "This life and being here. But even that didn't make him belong. He was in charge. but… they were very comfortable. "I like them. Arashi?" Shindoi asked while sitting down beside him." Naruto murmured. "Don't worry. but couldn't deny it. And orange which was a plus. They had set torches around their dancing area and the flames lit the colourful clothes they were wearing alight. though in a festival yukata she looked more like a customer than part of the nomads. He didn't feel part of the carnival as one of the staff. Naruto had to wonder why they were celebrating upcoming show rather than show which had already happened. "It might take time. "It still hasn't quite settled in. wearing flaming orange happi-coat which apparently was more fitting for Carnival personnel than his usual jacket. It's not my first time 18 . he got the feeling that these people celebrated anything and everything when ever they had the chance. but he didn't say anything. And when Shindoi suddenly dragged Naruto to the open for a dance. You feel like you should be one of them. has it. proud of their new belongings. and the Carnival was his employer. the atmosphere was nice." The rest of the night was spent drinking and celebrating the upcoming show. "It's not a bad sort of life." x The Carnival started with opening of the stands. I mean. Naruto. There was a clown walking around the makeshift street of tents. She too was wearing traditional clothes. It felt more like he was a solo ninja on a mission. Questioning the order of celebrations would've been rather redundant. watched the goings of the customers and the nomads with feel of odd. the fortune teller's tent and the freak show.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Is there something wrong with my clothes?" Naruto asked.with his Kage Bunshin he'd be the quickest and best controlled if they'd need to start organising water lines.there were few strong guys among the Carnival staff. detached enjoyment. I'm sure they can be made orange if you really like that colour so much. It's not bad at all. I think I'll mope little longer. Itachi and Nagato. Well he hadn't been able to feel them in the beginning either. Who knew for what purpose. somewhere inside him as hidden triggers or abilities or whatever they had given to him in meetings before their death. I need to… go some place. this was no illusion. before making a motion for him to say something. In the past. For a moment it felt like he saw a headband glinting among the happy festival-goers. I'm going to go and have some fun. do something about. I think it's because we know we're not meant to stay." Shindoi chuckled. "Ever feel like you have some thing you need to be doing. It felt like it. or some person you need to… well. "I was sent there by… somebody. Bits of his memory were missing too. or is it some task you need to complete. Or what?" Naruto glanced at her." the woman chuckled. "That day when you found me in the shore…" he trailed away. She was wearing a Hidden Leaf's headband. but…" he frowned. He knew now." he said. A girl with black hair. "I don't know. "Someone here might be able to give you some pointers. Nagato. But they didn't tell me what I was meant to do or if they did. walking around like normal person but hollow. "I. dead now. but this was different. for one. But where had it started? Where had it started…? "Well.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN with groups like… this one. But here he was. He was here. but you have no idea what it is?" Naruto asked after moment of thought and opened his eyes." "Nah." "I don't think they will. after she had ran from war. You're welcome to join me." She stood up. "Little bit of all of the above. am not going mope here. I wasn't…" "You weren't all there. he noticed. I think. surprised to hear her insinuate assassination just like that. "But you've gotten more stable since. And meet someone there. But it was all real . Maybe your memories will return eventually. like someone had taken his insides and left him with nothing but his skin." he sighed. thanks Shindoi. Sent by enemies made strange allies. how does it feel like then? Do you need to go somewhere. Things were just… so strange. Itachi… why hadn't they given him more pointers? Go back. He felt empty. Then his eyes slid over the crowd." Shindoi offered. looking for some hint of what he ought to do. too real to be a dream. "Well. 19 . Probably a mirage. "Like you forgot some important task you should already be getting to?" "Sometimes. you could try asking around.too odd to be illusion from a master. If they were there still. Or maybe I need to change some event. I forgot. he couldn't feel them anymore. change it? Change what? Where? How? There was a kid walking in the crowd. but I've never really belonged to those either. what way he ought to go. by their own machinations. kid. yes. The Kyuubi was gone too. It was still all so strange. giving him a look. She grinned faintly and shrugged." Naruto grinned and then watched as she vanished into the crowd." Naruto hesitated before nodding and closing his eyes. "You feel like that?" The ninja frowned. Change them. To do something. it really did at times. They had all ran from wars after all." "I don't want you to kill them." Naruto nodded. so I think it might be a Genin team. Naruto himself turned his eyes to the crowd. "So long as you return them. though. They had crashed the fortune teller's tent among other things. I want you to do it. When civilians decided to fight. Hitokawa-san? Oh. could tell the difference between a Shinobi and a civilian." Shuji murmured when Naruto saw him at the edge of the Carnival. "Bad advertising that. It made sense and he wasn't surprised these people. Go. ninja again." Shuji snorted. Just make sure that if they start up something. you throw Ninjutsu around like one. "I'll borrow this. Naruto continued walking and made his way to the shade behind the Freak Show tent. "Find the kids and shadow them. Shuji-san" he said instead of arguing and watched the Director walk away looking satisfied. both kids. With a nod. "Of course. I don't care how you ended up with the refugees. Shaking his head. But if you can do something for the Carnival. Three Genin. You look for a place to stay and just as long as you don't cause any trouble this might as well be the place. you talk like one. and wars usually happened between Shinobi. Now. Apparently not. grabbing a red wig which had been probably made from dyed animal hide." The three masked clones nodded and walked back into the crowd one by one not to attract 20 ." Naruto raised his eyebrows and didn't answer to that. one Jounin teacher.only momentarily registering the irony of it being a fox mask. alright." the man sighed. Beside it there was a booth selling Carnival masks. must be a team." the man selling the masks answered." he added. Naruto had been kicked out of the gambling tent. "You walk like one. the man had been kicked out of the Red tent." he said. You wouldn't believe. we won't have enough funds to cover the damages if someone of these ninja decides to start throwing fireballs around. He had thought that such antics were somewhat unique to him and those around him. He knew. before walking towards the Freak Show's tent. But the Jounin-sensei might give me some trouble depending on how good they are. feeling a bit bothered about the fact that the man believed he could kill someone and as easily as that. "Four of them this time. "Arashi. "You think you could do anything about them?" the Director asked hopefully. "I've seen two so far. and this too. he brought his hands together in a seal and created three Kage Bunshin. shaking his head. "I'll tag the teacher. The second time he himself had visited Carnival with Jiraiya. then I'll have no trouble dealing with the Genin.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 3 – MASKED SHADOW "Damn. and someone had picked a fight with them. If it's that. Anyone here who doesn't know you're a Shinobi is half blind or half dead. runaway civilians. Alright?" Naruto glanced at him. There he pulled the awkward wig and the mask on . it was usually Shinobi who either ended up on the battle fiends or stopping the fight altogether. if it's alright. "Why me?" Naruto asked. He didn't believe. they will go continue it somewhere else. You wouldn't believe how much trouble those guys can cause. We're stretched thin as it is. because Jiraiya wore special head band and Naruto had never seen him wear anything else… But this was the past. laughing amongst themselves while enjoying the treats sold in one booth or examining exotic looking cheap jewellery of another booth." Naruto answered calmly. Jiraiya's face was younger. I see. And there he was. It felt like old times. Many of them were wearing yukatas. We've had troubles with ninja before. all the way down to his chin. It didn't feel at all like he was part of the staff and that Jiraiya didn't even know him. Nagato wouldn't have. Except they weren't." "Aah." Naruto smiled behind the mask." he answered. When he turned to follow one woman with his eyes. Naruto waited for a while before following them and pushing his way in to the crowd. If he had any allusions about the world around him being an illusion. and the man's hair looked red and the woman's hair looked blue. Naruto swallowed around his heart which had risen to his throat.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN attention. The look of amused boredom. he knew better than to flaunt the pains of others at their face. x "You following me for some particular reason?" It didn't take long for Jiraiya to notice that Naruto was tailing him. which had always caused the man some embarrassment. I hope you don't have any delusions about being able to bring me down. almost always there. the younger Shinobi wasn't trying particularly hard to hide himself. Jiraiya-san?" he asked instead. He after all knew the pain of losing someone. I'll be close enough to put it out. but regular Hidden Leaf one . the Jounin-sensei. "I wouldn't dream of it. knowing it to be useless. "Are you enjoying the Carnival. But if you set something on fire. 21 . or as calmly as he could with his throat hurting and his eyes stinging. when he had walked probably this very same carnival with his teacher. they were gone now. He had white hair tied from the back and sideburns that reached all the way to his collarbones. At least too badly. Shaking his head he looked ahead. Jiraiya!" the man laughed and the tone told Naruto he had already had a few cups of sake to drink. It wasn't only Nagato's precious people… who were still alive at these times. but the essentials were there. Even if Itachi could've been cruel enough to make him experience this. "Nothing you can do about me. Hopefully the teacher wouldn't be like Kakashi. Naruto glanced at them and for a moment had a feel of disorientation. He felt wonderfully out of place now. magnificent ninja and you won't be able to pickpocket me. The red lines tracing down from his eyes." "Probably not. years and years before his time. But in all honestly. "I'll have you know that I'm a great. The annoying wart on the side of his nose. however. folding his arms and pushing his hands into the sleeves of his happi coat. Naruto knew from experience that his own teacher was impossible to shadow. One kid had bought himself a pin wheel and was waving it around and not far from him a man was fitting a paper flower to his woman's hair. The sight of him nearly made Naruto stumble but he managed to stop it barely. I am the great legendary Toad Sage. "I'm just here to make sure you don't start anything. Naruto was almost disappointed to see that he didn't have the Oil headband. The Carnival mass seemed to have lot of fun. Had they already had a go at the Chuunin exam? "If you don't want conversation. are you? I was going to visit the red tent and I don't think they let kids in. Naruto's smile was hidden beneath the red fox mask as he bowed his head slightly. pointing. It was nice for it to be stored someone else's memory as well. he didn't show it and instead went about the Carnival normally. which will not commence in a while." he said. He just had unnaturally good luck at times. heading towards the booth." Jiraiya threw his head back and laughed. "You know. many years and he couldn't claim the name of himself when there was a danger he himself would then never get it." Naruto answered. It was a bittersweet memory. they're sold over there. I promise to behave in the mean while." the man answered. by the way? I'm getting hungry. "Arashi. though of course I've seen it before and it hasn't changed much. "And then some other ninja showed up. But Uzumaki Naruto wouldn't be born in many. If the Sage was still bothered by his presence." "There's a booth selling takoyaki and okonomiyaki over there. Naruto followed after him. there was Jiraiya's book and its main character to consider." the man said. "Where can I get something to eat. examining the masks." "I think I'll have some takoyaki." the Sage answered. have a seat. "Well then. Two Genin and one Chuunin. "You're not gonna follow me everywhere. one only he had known with his teacher dead in his… time.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Yes. "I haven't been with the Carnival for long. patting the bench beside him. fine. Naruto tailing closely after him." "They're already being watched." "The red tent won't open until after the circus." Naruto answered calmly. kid?" Naruto hesitated before saying." Jiraiya murmured." the man murmured. Besides. Soon they were at the booth where the man ordered himself something to eat and then found seat in the simple tables spread around the booth. you know. Especially Jiraiya's own. The Toad Sage ate his takoyaki almost lazily before heading back to the crowd." and feeling somewhat guilty for lying to his own teacher. "So. this Ninjutsu master's enemy. thinking about it for a moment before giving a short tale about drunken Ninjutsu master and his gambling student and how the Ninjutsu master had caused a scene at the red tent while the student had been thrown out of the gambling tent for cheating. and they almost brought the entire Carnival down while trying to fight whilst half drunk and stumbling. "Blast. One of Jiraiya's students was already a Chuunin? The ones he had seen had looked pretty young to him. "Or if you want sweets." Naruto chuckled. buying some sweets here. I have students here. stretching his hands. Arashi-san. You should go watch them instead. and you can get some yakisoba on that booth over there. They're more likely to set this place on fire than I am. scratching his head. so I only know about one time. Oh. you have a name." "I don't think I like being shadowed in silence anymore than I like being shadowed out in the open. 22 ." Naruto glanced at the seat before sitting down. Naruto hadn't cheated. I can fall back. Of course. stick around if you want to. "Tell me about what sort of trouble Shinobi cause in fairs like this one. It'll be like I'm not here at all. "Waste of time. "And why are we being tailed?" Naruto looked up to see his own clone not far from her. "Aww. you know. The clone waved at Naruto and amusedly Naruto waved back. the only teacher who had really spend any effort in teaching him how to survive. Naruto wondered. He had surpassed the man with some things. Apparently they've had bad experiences with Shinobi. Minato. You need to learn to cut loose and enjoy the moment. looking between Naruto and the clone and folding her arms. Which hadn't even happened yet." The girl snorted. She thought week was bad? Jiraiya could deny him training for months at a time. "Your… brother." she murmured. Pain. sensei. eat greasy food. Or." she answered before turning to leave. With mix of sadness and trepidation. fox mask securely in place. Don't you want to see the circus at least? For people like us this can be once in a lifetime experience. This is supposed to be a training mission and yet you haven't given us any proper training in a week. What would Jiraiya think of that? Of him making Nagato change his mind before the end and sacrifice himself to resurrect the dead of Hidden Leaf? Probably berate him from being too late to save Hidden Leaf from near complete annihilation and Tsunade from completely wearing herself out. He still was long way from becoming a sealing master." Naruto almost snorted. "Maybe he will be willing to train with me. "Oi! Jojoni-chan!" Jiraiya suddenly called. and dance… you know. normal stuff. He too was a Sage ." she murmured. looking up at Jiraiya. looking between Naruto and his clone." Jiraiya answered." "It's annoying being followed. "I hope he didn't bother you. lass? Visited the jewellery booth yet? There's some pretty things sold there. when they were travelling. She was probably freshly graduated as she didn't look much older than twelve. Naruto followed and listened with vague sense of agonized nostalgia and tried hide it the best he could .but it was so easy to fall back into the old spot beside or behind the man. he did. "Can we go yet?" she asked. even better than Jiraiya had. "You enjoying the Carnival. She looked… grumpy. Jojoni-chan. Naruto wondered what his Jiraiya would think of him. of course. "They're the Carnival security personnel. with black hair styled on chonmage top knot and Leaf's headband on her forehead. starting Naruto out of his thoughts. maybe the title wasn't completely warranted." the girl said." Naruto and Jiraiya looked after her while Naruto's clone gave another happy wave and jogged after her. "There are better things we could be doing except wasting our time here. you might want to check it out…" "I don't see why we're here. but… he had fought and won against Nagato. glancing at Naruto and then turning slightly look behind her. But he had still attained Sage mode. "Have fun." Naruto grinned behind the mask and looked at the girl. but Jiraiya didn't seem to notice.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN glancing the gambling booth before buying a cheap necklace from the jewellery booth. saying he'd give it to the next pretty lady he'd meet.though considering that he hadn't signed the summoning contract in this time or been taught by Fukasaku. It was the girl Naruto had seen before. his hands casually behind the back of his head. who had killed his teacher in his time. He looked up to see whom he was yelling at. "I'm gonna go and see if I can find Minato. still lagged behind in others. Namikaze Minato? His father was there? As a 23 . Arashisan?" he asked curiously. Like training." Jiraiya sighed. "Something like that. Not all things in life are about Ninjutsu and training. sing. but that's about it. "Where did you see Minato?" "At the gambling booth. naturally. The youngest one got the candy and with a laugh the clone brought out a new one to hide in the cups. He came out with half a fortune. "Though I suppose I've felt as little proud of the brats too. Jiraiya sighed. "Minato had one tailing him too. You know." Jiraiya sighed." Jiraiya said while sitting down beside his student." he said after a moment in wry tone. nodding towards the booth where people were betting their money in various games. and it was easy to tell which Hidden Leaf clan he was from." "I dunno. folding his arms and hiding his hands in the sleeves. Naruto's clone on other hand was sitting not far from him. Seeing his father as a kid… not everyone got the chance. "They will start calling for people once it's time to find your seats." he said with a faint grin." Jiraiya grinned. nodding at Naruto and the clones. but…" the Akamichi boy shrugged his shoulders before waving at the keeper of the yakisoba booth. Chougou?" "I've gone to the Leaf cooking festival with my family a few times. "Which one is it?" "That one!" the kids all pointed at different cups." x Jiraiya's second student's name was Chougou. "So.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN child? He couldn't wait until the day was over and he'd get his clone's memories." the boy grinned. Sometimes. He had three cups in front of him and he had apparently hidden a piece of candy into one of them and was now moving the cups around. Not a day. "Maybe I should have a talk with him. thanks!" 24 ." the boy said while tilting his bowl to get to the last bits of the food. "I see you at least are enjoying the Carnival. not a day has gone by I haven't regretted agreeing to teach these kids. "Alright. "Yum." "They're babysitting us so that we don't cause trouble. "Tsunade-hime's taught bad habits to that boy." "Cool." Naruto answered. He threw his head back to swallow them and with an air of deep satisfaction lowered the bowl. "Cute student you got. "Can I have another bowl? Same stuff. playing a game with couple of children that belonged to the stall keeper. "You ever been to an event like this before." the clone said. They found the young Akamichi at the yakisoba stall. Who're they?" the short haired boy asked. scratching the back of his head. glancing between Naruto and the clone before turning to his student. "Successfully teach one group of kids and you suddenly think you're up to becoming a Jounin-sensei. so you probably won't miss it. when's the circus going to start?" "In about an hour. stopping and reaching up to adjust his mask and wig. at his second bowl. Spend it on candy." He was quiet for a moment. Namikaze Minato would be recognised as a genius. hell. not yet even a teenager. "You want something to eat? I can whip some ramen for you. Keishoku. Naruto tilted his head to the side as he watched his young father." Trying to connect the words sugar high and the fourth Hokage did funny things to Naruto's mind and he was still at the point where the rapid speed of Yellow Flash suddenly made some sense.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I'll have to have a talk with him about sugar intake then. sensei?" "I think some part of me has died. "Then I'll just catch up to you. despite his young age…. he's going to be sugar high the whole evening now. to a single man." Jiraiya murmured with a laugh and then frowned." Jiraiya said while sitting up." x One day. asked while looking up and down Naruto's clothes. I'm just going to be watching. I'll save some for you." the blonde boy answered happily and offered a box of sweets to his teacher." "Well… when you think about…" Naruto grimaced behind his mask." Naruto shrugged. right? No one of us carrying you if you knock yourself out in sugar withdrawal. not with his features being legendarily similar to those of Namikaze Minato. and then he'd die as a hero. I might come grab a bite to eat before the circus starts. "I ate some before the start. "I see. "You know we have early morning tomorrow." Naruto's clone murmured with mixed amusement and disbelief as Naruto nudged his shoulder. He'd be known as the single fastest man on earth and one day he'd became nightmare of the Hidden Rock due to a war they would lose to him. He too looked rather puzzled by the situation. Arashi?" the man. though. "I guess something like 25 ." Naruto answered though the very notion of declining ramen was tearing bloody gashes across his very soul. He'd become a Hokage hallowed and respected by all. so I'm fine. But not that day. One day. happily smiling around a lollipop." Jiraiya said amusedly to the blonde boy while Naruto discreetly approached his clone. "I guess it's time to find that last brat of mine and see he doesn't knock himself into a coma with the amount of sugar he is no doubt eating. "All the things they spoke… I didn't think sugar addiction would be part of it. There was something… very wrong with the image. Arashi-san?" Jiraiya asked curiously. giving his life to seal away a terrible beast." Keishoku answered before heading to serve another customer. when the yakisoba manager brought another bowl for Jiraiya's student. Well. "Do you have an act in the circus. Then he noticed his clone who was sitting not far from young Minato. and Naruto didn't know if he was supposed to laugh or once more try to dispel Nagato's and Itachi's illusions. "Pocky. "Oh. "That you. But he didn't dare to take of the mask in presence of the Shinobi." "Maybe later. saving his village from certain destruction." "Alright then. "No. and it would be better to have eyes and ears outside the tent as well." "No.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN this was expected. "So you had one after you too. I'm not exactly trying to hide the fact that I'm tailing you." the other blonde answered. not really. "You part of a quadruplet or something." The clone snorted. "Clones. "If you want people not see you are a clone. I would've put the clones under a Henge. but making solid clones is something different. You've been trained. "Damn it. there was Jiraiya and Kakashi with porn. Jiraiya-sensei?" the blonde boy asked while his teacher helped himself to some pocky. He took a pocky and bit to it happily. He was nodding towards Naruto and his clone. No use having two of them watching people who were at the same place after all. He looked up to the tent while Jiraiya and Minato stood up to join the crowd idly making their way towards the tent. "Though you don't really think we need watching over while we're enjoying the circus? You're making me feel like a 26 . "All three I've seen are perfectly alike down to the patterns on the wig and the string hanging from left sleeve. as you would've figured it out sooner or later anyway. "How many are there?" "Four as far as I've seen. Besides. Arashi-san?" "Once upon a time. there was Tsunade with sake. "I've seen some civilians who know some low level Shinobi abilities. The clone grumbled at him." Minato answered in Naruto's stead and with a crunch bit through his lollipop." Jiraiya snorted and sat down beside Minato with a huff. Shuji hadn't given him any orders about what to do once the show started. Sugar. "I suppose you two wouldn't mind if I sat with you?" he asked while motioning his clone to head off to patrol the carnival area. leaning to his clone's shoulder casually. "Just as long as you don't spoil the show for us. though… it seemed rather weird for the hallowed Fourth Hokage. so he figured he could go and watch it. even Hokages had been kids once. "There was no point. Arashi-san?" he asked. try and not be so identical." Naruto shrugged. It somehow made sense that his father had one too." Jiraiya said. but withstood it easily. "If I was hiding the fact. "What makes you say that?" Jiraiya asked curiously. directing the question at Naruto." he said to Naruto." Jiraiya snorted and snapped a piece of the pocky off." the boy shrugged while throwing the lollipop stick to a near by garbage pail with astonishing accuracy. x The clowns who had been handing out balloon animals and such to kids started hollering people to advance to the circus tent not much after Naruto had managed to get used to the fact this his father in early teenage years had had a sweet tooth bigger than the Hidden Leaf." There was him with ramen. now I know why the toads were always asking for sweets. But then. there was Sakura with fashion… most ninja seemed to have their habits which weren't that commonly mentioned. you never know. a hearty sound. Noise of war.and father-to-be. peering forward curiously. stuffing his hands into his pocket while walking in step with his teacher. loud and empty and full of too many regrets to put into words. Instead he glanced at his father. Jiraiya turned to his student and begun happily explain what had happened the last time he had seen a circus. and he didn't want to return to the mindless madness of before. All of the Three Great Ninja had carried emptiness inside them. "At seven.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN criminal. 27 . He had been looking forward to see the other perform. that was different. tried their skills. You might get all excited and start shooting out fireballs or something. But to see it with Jiraiya and Namikaze Minato. Inside the tent. agony and loneliness. the ruined and the renewed. he fought melancholy and odd twisted excitement. In the absence of anything else to do but wait. demons breaking their chains and worlds ending . the slain and the saved. He had a pocky stick in his fingers and was idly whirling between them. all of them had tried to fill it. As he followed his teacher and his father-to-be along the stands and up the stairs to seats near the back where there was less people. made of runaways and refugees and people barely trained at what they were doing. Jiraiya was laughing." "I wouldn't!" Jiraiya harrumphed and slapped the back of the boy's head.believes and morals crashing. a mixture of a man he had wanted to be and man he had became in order to hide the one he really had been. But he did. Behind them Naruto closed his eyes behind the mask and smiled." Jiraiya chuckled. taking seat directly behind Jiraiya and Minato and idly lifting his left foot upon his right knee. "When is the show starting?" Minato asked. haphazard music could be heard as the orchestra. "Though I wouldn't put it past Jiraiya-sensei to set a tent on fire just to make things interesting. "And don't give the fox guy a bad impression of me! He might clone me to death. entire village found in ruin. if there was a kunai there instead of a mere pretzel.of tragedy. The waves of the blood ocean were ringing in his ears. The area around them was noisy. the defeated and the victorious. Jiraiya flashed his and Minato's tickets at the entrance and Naruto waved at the big." Minato answered. full of people laughing and tittering with excitement. Shinobi are excitable folk as far as I know. Noise of the betrayed and the promised. Only now Naruto realised how well and how badly his teacher had managed. "But I think they will wait until everyone who's gonna watch have found seats at the tent. trying to get inside the tent faster as if afraid they'd miss the show unless they'd hurry." "Not all of us." he answered. "Well. The people in the tent were rumbling with murmurs and across them the orchestra almost caught a tune before dissolving into merry cacophony. burly man who was checking them." Naruto snorted. Naruto thought with a snort. The Jiraiya he had known had been as full as he had been empty. younger than him." "Can't start a show without viewers. nothing like that mockery of laugh Naruto knew. and then up to the tent ahead of them." Who'd want to clone you. He knew noise. The way the stick danced from thumb to pinkie and then over the knuckles without faltering made Naruto wonder what it would look like. He shook the thought away. Noise of emotion and thought . And maybe a little suspicious considering that he had shadowed Shinobi and performed Ninjutsu no civilian was supposed to know. "Not as much as a year but longer than a day. welcome to the Carnival Circus!" Shuji called through a speaker once everyone had settled down and the tent was packed. But he couldn't judge civilians by Shinobi standards. Few days would've sounded lame.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN The sound of cluttered happiness around him and his teacher's hearty. After seeing the man in somewhat modest travelling . So. How like Jiraiya. but he had to admit that for civilians the circus performers weren't bad. glancing at him. a beast tamer from this very Land of Fire." he said. "Here you will skills from all the corners of the known world! An acrobat from the magnificent Land of Lightning. "But I heard that one of the circus's leading acts died during the winter last year. "What about you? 28 . a snake charmer from the Land of Grass. so I have no idea who you're talking about." Naruto snorted." Jiraiya motioned up to the gear Yonige had been using in his act. "Now!" the man finished his lengthy introduction.or how modest it can be when you're travelling with a Carnival . "I wasn't with the carnival back then. Aside from the cape which was a little Akatsuki-like. though. not-yet-hollow laugh… wasn't noise at all. huh?" "Yes." "You haven't been with the Carnival for long." Naruto smothered a chuckle. "Some time. Rock Lee was hell of a lot stronger than the so called powerhouse of physical strength and Yonige's limberness fell short that Naruto had seen some Hyuuga perform.." he answered. the clothes were very fitting for a circus and Carnival director. "Aww. Arashi-san?" Minato asked curiously as the Director called a fifteen minute break before the next act. "Ladies and gentleman. "There used to this awesome babe in the circus last time I saw it. The snake charmer didn't hold a candle to Orochimaru .it was strange to see the man in full festival gear. "She was really good for a civilian and a treat to watch. or had given so many like it that it came from him naturally. "Bummer. where's the leading act?" Jiraiya murmured after Yonige was done performing.and the beast tamer compared to some summoners was pathetic at best. She did these tricks with ropes up in the air. "You take this whole Carnival mysticism pretty seriously. Naruto wasn't too impressed.not that it was something to be ashamed about ." "She died?" Jiraiya asked in despair. That might've been her. "Let the show begin!" And begin it did. I'm eagerly waiting for the fortune-teller to kick the bucket so that I can claim the glory of being a leading Carnival mystic." Jiraiya muttered with a snort." "Cryptic." Naruto smiled crookedly behind his mask. It suited the man. shaking his head. he hadn't been the first time around either. "How long have you been with it?" Naruto hesitated before shrugging.. "She was much better at this stuff than that guy is. a powerhouse of physical strength from Land of Earth." "Hm?" Naruto tilted his head to the side curiously. Please tell me you're saving the best for last. It was clear that Shuji had either given the speech many times. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Been Shinobi for long?" "More than a year, less than thirty," Jiraiya grinned at him. "More than a month, less than a decade," Minato nodded. Naruto laughed. 29 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 4 – MIXED CONFESSIONS It was strange, Naruto mused while Minato leaned forward to watch the show and Jiraiya let his attention stray towards a pretty woman sitting not too far from them. He would've assumed that in this sort of situation, when a child from future meets his dead father and teacher, the child would be more interested about the father. Especially when the father was someone like Namikaze Minato, whose accomplishments seemed endless and who had entire nations singing his praises in the future. Even unconnected person with any idea of who Minato was would've been interested about him, to learn his secrets and personality and how the sugar addict displayed currently would turn into the magnificent hero in the future… But Naruto found that his interest about his father was almost detached. Maybe it was because he himself had only met the man once, and even that brief meeting had happened inside himself and Minato had been nothing but a signature in human shape, memory of a man who had once been. He simply didn't know the man. And yet lack of knowledge usually did not hinder honest interest which Naruto now lacked. More probably it was the mixture of indifferent respect and indignity. Yes, Minato would be an incredible Shinobi, a Hokage and his father one day. But he would also seal the Kyuubi inside him. Naruto understood why - he really did, maybe even better than Minato himself had done when he had sacrificed his own life. But understanding did not wipe away twelve years of bitter, painful childhood of being hated by everyone around him, of being painfully, helplessly lonely. With knowledge, respect, a grudge and bitterness fighting each other, the result was something like mildly curious neutrality. So, despite how it should've been, seeing Minato was rather disappointingly unemotional event. There had been surprise, maybe twinge of honest interest for a moment, but it had faded to the background in favour of more important, more appealing presence. But then, Jiraiya had been more to him than Minato had, the hermit had meant more. Jiraiya had been a teacher in many things and though many had called Naruto "The Fourth Hokage's Legacy", in reality Naruto was "The Toad Sage's Successor". Jiraiya had taught him Ninjutsu and Summoning, Naruto had even learned some of Jiraiya's personal combat style, and after Jiraiya's death, Naruto had became master of the arts of Toad Sages. Naruto had gotten more from Jiraiya than he had ever gotten from Minato - existence and demonic tenants aside and Rasengan couldn't be counted because the Toad Hermit had been the one to teach it. Jiraiya had even given Naruto his name. And all of that meant very little in comparison to the most important thing Jiraiya had taught him in those three years they had been travelling. Naruto leaned back and looked up to the ceiling of the tent where the acrobats were finishing their final act. He had known to live before. Survival had been the first thing he had learned in life. And not just survival in sense of taking care of himself and eating properly, but being able to survive through the life he wasn't enjoying in the slightest. Before Iruka and even before the old man Hokage himself, there had been no one in his life. He could only vaguely remember some caretakers from his earliest of age, but in all honesty he couldn't remember the time before 30 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN his sixth year of life that clearly. The first memory he had, which was clear, was from when he was just little over six and already living alone in his own apartment, trying to figure out how to use the stove. It had been miserable existence. He had managed, sure. He had gotten allowance and though the shopkeepers had given him some piercing looks, they had rarely if ever overcharged him - bad marketing that, setting different prices for different people, even demons. He had even learned to cook, though the many failures in the beginning had made him appreciate the beauty of instant food. Ramen especially - so many flavours, impossible to get tired and it was cheap. But getting by day by day only really worked out for you, if you wanted to. Any time in his life, Naruto could've stopped eating. Many times he had considered it. He never had. He had the Hokage hat to thank for that. It was a pretty damn cool hat. Goals really could save one's life, even if they were nearly unreachable. Later on, things had changed, and he had gotten his precious people. Iruka had taught him to smile and laugh, really laugh. Sakura had taught him to look forward to, how not to be alone. Sasuke had taught him be persistent - in more ways than one. Kakashi had taught him to be patient - and that patience was often rewarded. But it had been Jiraiya who had taught him the most important thing. How to enjoy his life. x In odd way Naruto was disappointed that the circus ended without an incident. He had half expected the support poles to collapse so that he'd need to create half thousand clones to support the tent and keep it from crashing down, or have his clones rush to fetch some water to put some fire out, or… or something to that effect. In his life, he had just gotten adjusted to things going wrong in that certain way that either ended up with things destroyed or with lot and lot of effort put in keeping them from getting destroyed. Being summoned in middle of the ruins of your home after long and hard training mission had an odd effect on a person's mind. "Well, it was interesting," Minato was saying as Naruto shadowed him and his teacher out of the tent. "For civilians they were pretty good." "Any proper ninja could do all they did and make it ten times better, but you're right," Jiraiya hummed while reaching and stealing a stick of pocky from the boy's hands. "For civilians they weren't bad. Still, pity about the babe I saw last time. She was really good. You would've loved her, Minato." "If you liked her, sensei, then I doubt it," Minato murmured, rolling his eyes before looking ahead. "Oh, I can see the others over there. Oi! Jojoni, Chougou!" he waved at the two, who looked up. Chougou happily waved back. Jojoni folded her hands and frowned. Minato laughed. "I don't think she liked the show much, sensei," he said in stage whisper. "Big surprise that," Jiraiya muttered, shaking his head while motioning the two others to join them. Not far behind them came Naruto's clones, still adorning their masks and wigs though Naruto could tell that the one who had been following Jojoni was yawning behind his mask. 31 " Jiraiya said his two students came close enough to hear.it could be disconcerting and was down right lethal in battle situation. you know… a secret mission…" Jiraiya said vaguely and gave his three suddenly very suspicious students a wide eyed look of complete honesty. one stretching and other with his hands in his pockets. Jiraiya had showed him several different types of clones whilst they had been planning a Taijutsu style that made the most of Naruto's cloning ability. Even now. Naruto was so good at tuning out complaints that listening to her had made the clone close enough to hear sleepy. "I'm wiped out. then. huh?" the Sage finally asked. so I want you all well rested. brats. decades before that time." Naruto nodded and the clones dispelled in soft poofs of chakra. why don'cha? We'll have a practice session tomorrow morning. "Anything I should be aware off?" Naruto asked curiously. You three head off to the inn. Jiraiya took out his pipe. "I think this is about it for the night. And why aren't you coming back with us?" "I have some… research to do… information gathering. Whilst training with the man. "Some training once upon a time. There were times when his clones witnessed something which gave him a pause after the clone dispelled and he gained its memories . He gave few more words to the kids who with some annoyed grumbling then turned to leave. sensei. Arashi-san!" before heading off. motioning Naruto to follow him. Jiraiya didn't answer. There had been lot of them and they all had their distinctive characteristics . He immediately knew that Jojoni had walked pass the jewellery stand twice before buying a bracelet and that Chougou had offered the clone following him some salty snacks which the clone had declined. just turned to head to the takoyaki stall. "You might get a bit tired. "It's for the good of the village! I promise!" Naruto chuckled at the all-too-familiar excuse while waving his clones towards him." the clone that was in middle of a stretch answered while the other shook its masked head. really?" Jojoni asked. "Why do you ask when you already know?" he answered. While waiting for it to be delivered. looking highly unimpressed. but when he did it was 32 . the younger Shinobi followed. The two students' of Jiraiya had sat together in the circus tent and Jojoni had spent most of the show making disgusted noises. Minato piping a polite. critiquing the performers and complaining about the waste of time it was. "You liar. Jiraiya glanced at him as the chakra smoke faded but said nothing. They walked forward. "It was nice to meet you.the most memorable were perhaps the lightning clones which electrocuted anyone with the misfortune of touching them. It helped to know before hand so that he could prepare for the memory-shock. there was no way the Sage wouldn't be able to tell the difference between clones just by glancing at them. Naruto leaned forward curiously. sitting down with his teacher-to-be and then watching how the man ordered himself some sake." "Oh. More curious than worried. And Kage Bunshin was the only clone aside from normal Bunshin which dispelled with a poof of chakra.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Well. That's what you said the last time. "What sort of clones were those?" Naruto smiled grimly. Jiraiya didn't smoke that often. who suddenly found himself beyond awkward. Jiraiya and Naruto looked after them in silence before Jiraiya turned to look at the masked blonde. Naruto tilted his head to the side. The lines of ownership had blurred when people had found that everything could be stolen. "Where does this leave us. huh. Finally. "That Bunshin is a Hidden Leaf secret. Though once or twice Jiraiya had put him through the silent making-you-wait-in-awkward-silence-while-I-have-a-smoke treatment just for the drama. not even bloodline limits were safe. Hidden Leaf secret. Jiraiya got his sake and lit his tobacco.or jutsu which couldn't be performed by anyone other by the creator. She had apparently taken over for one of the 33 . like Hiraishin and Rasenshuriken." he said. But this was a different time with different believes and different dangers. "A secret. It was Shindoi in her festive yukata. Orochimaru hadn't defected yet.something which during these times would no doubt lead to an outright war . And… Kage Bunshin no Jutsu had been developed by Hidden Leaf's very own founder. taking him in silently while sucking a breath through his pipe. He pushed the stopper back to the sake bottle and lifted his cup. or the leak? Should I order a saucer for myself or run for my life?" Jiraiya in his time would've probably rolled his eyes at the concept. In his time. "Once upon a time. Can't quite remember. huh? Interesting." Naruto answered. and seeing a thing like Byakugan in the hands of another village . I am a deviant now." he said finally. leaning his chin to his knuckles.and probably would usually lead into investigation about how it had been leaked outside village's walls. "So. Only way you would know it if myself. Arashi-san. "How did you learn it?" the Sage asked instead of giving any indication about what he was thinking. Seeing a jutsu created in one village being used by the Shinobi of another village was a disgrace . Arashi-san. Jiraiya-san? What do you intend to do about me and this S-class jutsu I know?" Jiraiya frowned." he answered after bit of silence. Naruto hadn't known that until over year of using the art and even then it hadn't seemed important . it was a while ago. careful to not disturb the mask. my team mate. wondering if the answer would redeem or condemn him. Even tailed demons. It's an S-class one. or the Hokage would've taught you… or you got it by some devious means. Alright.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN usually sign of severity . you got a little bit more than some education. Bloodline limits were pure and secure and jutsu were a matter of pride." he then said. He blew the smoke at Naruto's mask while pouring himself a drink. "I studied." Jiraiya answered. And I know the Hokage would never teach it to just anyone and my team mate isn't exactly the teaching type.or agitation. the only jutsu unique to a village was a jutsu very recently developed . had he been alive. Maybe a little bit of physical training. staring at the masked younger Shinobi over the saucer of sake." Naruto blinked idly. "Tell me honestly. still saying nothing. was it? In his time. narrowing his eyes. "It's not just a secret.after all. In his time. Senju Hashirama. plenty of people knew Kage Bunshin. and looked up as he caught the sight of mass of colour at the corner of his eyes. Are you a Shinobi?" Naruto hesitated.wasn't even remarkable. But this was a different Jiraiya. He had a feeling that probably less than five people knew it in this time. "Does that make me a secret keeper. "Some paper and ink was involved." "Once upon a time. waving at the stall manager who brought them another saucer. No goodbyes. eying him silently. Naruto felt both oddly betrayed . When Jiraiya looked at him expectantly. you're old enough to have a cup to its memory. Jiraiya seemed to consider the fact that Naruto turned his cup upside down as sign and after he had emptied his own saucer. Arashisan." he said instead." Jiraiya's answer was oddly firm. Lone Shinobi like Naruto.because in Jiraiya's threats and suspicions there had been a hint of a promise. Jiraiya had done it so many times during the three years of travelling that Naruto had missed it as much as he had been relieved that it wouldn't happen again. He handed it over the table. getting drunk that was. He nodded. pocking the upside-down sake saucer with his finger. looking at the sake cup." Jiraiya murmured amusedly. but nothing else. who have no one to report to?" Jiraiya was quiet for a moment. "I'm like them." Naruto answered. Mostly those who were eagerly waiting to get into the red tent. The carnival wasn't over yet . there was still plenty of customers.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN clowns who had sold balloons before. he shrugged and lifted the mask just enough to drink. One of the few weaknesses the Kyuubi's chakra had never relieved him from. "Once upon a time there was a place where I studied and was a Shinobi. 34 . But what happens when there is no village to leave? What becomes of people like me. He sighed.most of the booths and stalls were open and though mothers were steering their kids away. Naruto didn't answer neither wanting to deny or confirm the obvious and either seem the more cocky or cowardly for it. or find new superiors in other villages. thought. he took the sake bottle and headed off." Naruto chuckled and accepted the saucer. He just wandered off without another word. "Do you know what this Carnival is about?" he asked. While staring after him. Naruto laughed to himself when he saw the direction his teacher was heading. and those who were eagerly waiting for the chance to get drunk. "They either become civilians. "You know. no threats or promises. Technically it was the complete truth. Usual party-goers. you become a missing-nin. as she was walking with cloud of them following her. It was good enough. glancing around the makeshift festival street. And in some way it felt oddly homely to be just left behind by his teacher. giving him a curious look." The conversation ended without another word. "Or they join the freak show. Shaking his head he stretched his hands before looking around and past the takoyaki stall's front. it's funny. "So you do wear that thing to hide your identity from me. wondering how to drink without taking off the mask.and he knew for a fact that he was a very bad drinker. I mean. Jiraiya would know the shape of his chin and see the two lower whiskers. That place is not quite the same right now…" he trailed away. Naruto drank his sake and didn't refill as drinking only one saucer had brought him too close to revealing his face to Jiraiya . If you leave your village. in possession of Hidden Leaf's secret jutsu… Jiraiya should've taken him back to Hidden Leaf as a prisoner. "You know. "The people. That was Jiraiya. "I'm not actually old enough to drink this stuff. "If you're old enough to have lost a village. no greetings." he finally answered. Naruto glanced at the corner of his eye as Jiraiya poured some sake to the saucer." Jiraiya looked away as well. though whilst Jiraiya could draw a woman clothed and naked some million different ways. Once he would actually start to write the perverted stuff.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Are you done dreaming?" familiar voice said from behind him. Naruto snorted and stood up. Naruto looked at the Carnival director upside-down." "No. his Oiroke form was better endowed. Finally. Some of the men hung around to drink and talk. "So I've pretty much seen the best and worse of it and I don't actually have interest in that sort of stuff anymore. Arashi. Instead he finished his sake. "You're a strange one.that's where we get the most trouble and I know for experience our normal guards can't do much about most ninja. The man lifted a single eyebrow at him. and stood up. I've just been going in and out worse places than that ever since I was eight. nodding at the tent. taught by perverts and then having to serve a Hokage who in her fifties had been voted the hottest woman of all of Hidden Leaf… he just didn't have the same appreciation for physical beauty as most men seemed to have. "I am kinda under age.though a few of them had pretty faces. After having been surrounded by perverts.and it had taken whole lot of research to perfect Oiroke no Jutsu. I'm not having a ninja in the red tent without someone watching him . they were concentrating onto the stage where several scantily clad girls and women were happy to receive all their attention . But then." Not that his interest had ever been anything but strictly academic. gathered the last bits of their audience's appreciation." Naruto shrugged. Thankfully. "So you either swing your sword the other way. Nothing really interested happened in the three hours Naruto spend watching over overly happy Jiraiya." he answered and left the director muse over it. the girls flaunted their half naked booties for one last round. Shuji-san?" Naruto asked. Well.and money. He knew the particular stumble that sent his teacher-to-be back into his bench. closed his notebook. Just getting the nipples right had taken close to two weeks and about ten observation sessions. longingly calling for encores. "Go after him. and then sauntered off." "You sure I oughta go there. and tilting his head back. The many curtains and odd shadows and the tricks of lightning hid Naruto from plain sight and neither Jiraiya nor the other patrons of the tent noticed him. and wrote down notes. he had started considering twenty-one as the proper adult age . Or tried to anyway. or you just do hand-to-hand?" the man asked with mildly amused smirk. It was a pity Jiraiya hadn't heard that . Naruto had a feeling he was also doing sketches .he would've loved to use that in one of his books. Jiraiya didn't seem to be in the mood of causing havoc." Actually he was almost eighteen. seventeen? At the prime of your hormones!" the man snorted.the man was a good at stuff like that. but it was still kinda underage. but Jiraiya didn't. the show ended. Kinda. Jiraiya wasn't the only one who had done his homework . Mostly he drank his sake which the waitresses were happy to pour down his throat so as long as he kept spending money. It was when Jiraiya had drunk more than he could handle and had passed the point where world spun around him to the point where it 35 . "Did you just come up with argument against going in? What the hell sort of teenager are you? You're what. Naruto's interest was mostly shallow and judgemental . Naruto laughed softly in the crimson shadows of the tent. he couldn't draw a man to save his life.that's when you got to legally drink the strong stuff after all. "Usually I manage with Ninjutsu. With Gamabunta always muttering about him not being proper subordinate because they hadn't shared sake yet. hazy silence as Naruto reminisced all the times he had dragged Jiraiya off to some inn to sleep. Jiraiya started humming a broken tune drunkenly. and couldn't figure out why he couldn't speak or stay upright. "Like you're a normal one. and turned them towards the town. I'm afraid I will have to kick you out as a precaution." "I'm awshome leg… legndry Jiraiya-shama. and never would stop. 'at would be awshome…" Naruto grinned behind the mask. the same part which was mourning Nagato. If Jiraiya had actually managed to write in that state. It was odd. for similar reasons. It was. Heh heh… ninja carnival.how many times he had done it back when they had been travelling? . Just like Naruto. Naruto approached his teacher.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN didn't ." Jiraiya cackled into his ear. Detaching himself from the shadows. 'rashishan. leaning onto him heavily as if trying to consciously make the task of supporting him even more difficult. bittersweet sensation." Naruto agreed. oddly enough. And Naruto… he probably had died. making Jiraiya sluggishly turn around.that he couldn't help it. No one paid much mind to him as he tapped the man's shoulder.the point where Jiraiya was absolutely convinced he was perfectly sober. before pulling the white haired man to his feet. To protect Hidden Leaf from the Kyuubi and Juubi. Jiraiya had taught his students to be magnificent. Naruto frowned.away from the town. They tend to start demonstrating how awesome they are and that leaves us with tents on fire. his notes probably consisted of mere incoherent scribbling and random happy sketches which made no sense." the younger Shinobi nodded. snapping Naruto out of his thoughts. Toad Shage from Myoubokuzhan!" Jiraiya laughed. Minato whilst sealing the Kyuubi and saving Hidden Leaf. "Where's your inn?" "Thatawaydirection. or would've died. Just like Minato." Jiraiya pointed happily . "'rashi-shan?" the Legendary Sage slurred to him with confusion as Naruto steered him towards the exit. But then. The longer it went on. happy and sorrowful at the same time." Naruto answered. And all of them had ended up dying magnificent deaths. and Jiraiya tried to figure out how exactly people walked. "Yer a weird one. Glancing at him and at the look of intoxicated happiness on his face. "Come on. Some part of Naruto was still mourning for his teacher. the more nostalgic it felt. The actions came automatically as he took the other Shinobi's arm and hoisted it over his shoulders." the man said heavily. Joinshed the carnival. cherished and hated. quickly making up an excuse. Nagato whilst reviving the people of Hidden Leaf he himself had killed.and each of them had come out superb in their chosen fields. For about five minutes there was comfortable. "Courshe 'm not normal!" "Of course. 36 . trying not to shiver. so homely . "We don't want drunken ninjas in the Carnival grounds. The situation was so familiar. "Weird s-shin-shii… ninja. "The other way it is." Naruto said. "Whaddya doing? "Giving you a hand." "…knew yer're evil. The man was yelling the words into his ear. Apparently Jiraiya had yet to master the art of not babbling whilst drunk. Nagato was connected. They were all Jiraiya's students . Even Jiraiya's dead weight was familiar. which on other hand had ended up in Nagato's team mate's death and eventually to Nagato starting in his ultimate path." the white haired Sage continued. You give up trying to make me give up. The world had been a messed up place the last time he had seen it in the future." he said. 37 . "Yanno. Madara had created Akatsuki. "The Tale of Gutsy Ninja." Naruto said as they came to the town's edge. In making propshies. But he also knew Nagato had read it. the book had been dedicated to him after all. To him." Jiraiya giggled. He laughed as Naruto stumbled and tried to keep them upright. he liked the book mostly because it was so familiar to his own life and the main character was much like he himself was . and no doubt had had great hand at making Nagato the way he had ended up. for a moment imagining a huge godly razorblade raking over the entire world. Naruto looked up to the darkening sky above them. And Nagato probably had once upon the time seen himself as the hero too. "The words. "There'sh a propheshy. That I will have a… shtudent. shrugging his shoulders and nearly sending them both to the ground by shifting his centre of weight so suddenly. He smiled thinly." "Shave the word?" Naruto asked with mild amusement. "Bit too over the top. Tellsh about the foot… future." he said. No one liked it though… Havn't had much ss…shuckshess at it shinshe. Madara had sent the Kyuubi to Hidden Leaf. the toad that gave it. but hadn't really succeeded in either as far as Naruto knew." he mumbled and then frowned. but also Madara. Got the whords from one of my previoush studentsh. but it had still been there." Jiraiya snorted. "I've read it. It seemed more like a circle to Naruto. "'course. I'll find it… I really liked those. that is. "Do you think it was a real prophesy?" he asked curiously. but he had a feeling what book was the one who had made the prophesy had meant. "Never failed." he said. In whole. Destroy or save the world." "Really?" Jiraiya looked at him with drunken disbelief. Six Paths of Pain. And in the end… Naruto had probably died in his hands after fighting him and his bloody organisation for years." Naruto nodded absently. Even wrote a book like he told me to. "Whaddidya like 'bout it?" Naruto thought about it for a moment. It made odd sense that the words had came from Nagato. He wash a… shenshitive li-little guy. Spiral of hatred and pain. It's my favourite book. And I'm gonna deshide whether they will deshstroy or shave the world. "Do you believe in destiny?" The man gave him a sideways look.they even had the same name. "He alsho shaid I'd be a pervert. In the end. Might be why the book didn't do sho well. "I like the fight in the woods. It made sense though. Nagato had done little bit of both. Shosen one.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN That made him realise one thing . Minato and Nagato didn't only share Jiraiya. leaning close and grinning widely. It might've not been popular but it had been even more significant. Jiraya had written lot of books. "Bit too idealshtic. Wash right about that. to Nagato. "Jiraiya. If there is such a thing as peace. About me. zat is." A book. and the speech Naruto gives. they had called it. though… with few lines Naruto had turned him into the villain. to his father. yanno.he. as they had lead him to fighting for peace in Village Hidden in Rain. " Naruto trailed away. "I fell. The way Jiraiya was frowning was a telltale sign that he had no idea what Naruto was talking about. "What?" Jiraiya asked. One of the first. I do know. so he didn't dare to give too much information." As Jiraiya looked at him. "Arashi-san… oh no. "I'm thick like that. Of course there'd be a reason. it's not home anymore. Then you show up and I remember all this stuff I had almost forgotten. you know. Crouching before him. Maybe that's why they sent me here. Shinobi like Itachi and Nagato didn't do things without purpose. though. Didn't have the foggiest. Jiraiya." "Yes. who probably now did what Naruto himself had ." "O' what?" Jiraiya asked." Naruto sighed. his arm slipped from Naruto's shoulders. turning to Jiraiya. "Well.done in the future. I hear that they were fighting for peashe there… shomewhere in there. I'm just slow on the uptake.and maybe never would after all .Rain. the links in the chain…" He reached out and steadied Jiraiya who looked dangerously like he was about to fall to his side. Looking for his no-good teacher. Naruto barely managed to keep him from hitting his nose against a near by wall by grabbing the man's hand and slowing down his sudden descent. "I can't go back home. "Hehehe. "That student of yours. you know. "Thanks." he murmured." Naruto chuckled. easing the man to sit on the ground as Jiraiya seemed to have no intention of getting up anytime soon. Shomewhere in Hiddun Rr. "I didn't know what I was meant to do. It was Minato. Naruto turned towards Minato who was still. glancing over his shoulder as he felt a presence near by. Minato-kun. "But here you are. you did.. Naruto's own upward spiral. and most important circles that linked with so many others into a chain of endlessly repeating sorrows." he called and felt the presence spike with surprise before the young Leaf-nin sped up his steps and made his way towards him. That was okay. Jiraiya had frightening ability to remember important things from when he had been drunk. "Over here. I didn't think there'd be anyone here I'd fight for. as Naruto didn't really know either." "Yer making no shenshe. that's about it for my confessions." Naruto answered. He stared at the 38 . out of hearing range. "There's nothing you can do about it. The beginning of it all. the masked Shinobi of Leaf stared at his teacher. You don't know like I do. "For this and for so many things you don't know about. Of course… they even told me to do it." the Legendary Sage laughed happily. "Because I knew and could change it all." Jiraiya said and as he tried to make a vague motion towards where he probably did the village in question was." the blonde boy said at the sight of his teacher.." Naruto repeated. Or shomewhere closhe by. thankfully." he said solemnly while standing up. Nagato's downward spiral. "Thanks." Naruto admitted. "Thank you." he said after moment of half drunken staring contest. trying to comprehend. The important stuff.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Where is he now?" Naruto asked. But that's the point. except maybe for that guy but even that's kinda tricky considering that he's the enemy and was the one to destroy my village in the first place. leaning his chin to his knuckles and his elbow to his crouched knee." "Mmh. "Something important." Jiraiya offered with a smile. tilting his head confusedly back to lean it against the wall. sending the elder man to the ground. " 39 . you can be so embarrassing at times!" Naruto laughed while leaning down to drag Jiraiya to his feet. Lead the way. Minato-kun. "Let's get you somewhere where you can sleep this off. hoping it wouldn't be something like this keeping him. I came looking for him. "Come on. but… I guess I was hoping too much.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN drunken man for a moment before sighing and covering his face with his hand." he grunted while taking most of the man's weight. Jiraiya-sensei. Jiraiya-san. "Again. being part of the Carnival group had saved him from the trouble of finding food and shelter and such. they stay for couple of days. He could've sworn to be someone's friend. What did he have? His jumper. Maybe something immaterial then. In the end being part of the circus had been little more than way to kill some time before something interesting and more meaningful would come along . Arashi. "We don't really ask for that. But what did he have that was immaterial? Pretty much nothing. "Some are like that. However." "I still feel like I ought to give you back for what you did for me. "A young ninja found in a shoreline. It's nothing new. You guys took care of me and fed me." Naruto looked up a bit dubiously. his sandals… that was about it. and I can't even pay you back." the man answered simply and smiled." the dark skinned man shrugged. "It's okay. Few of the women are already considering making a theatre act. or protect them. "But I didn't do anything. "You've already given us something which will probably be useful one day.also." Yonige said. or fight with them… or for them. you know. He firmly believed that favours should always be repaid . All he knew was too energy draining for any of the few in the carnival to use and the low level stuff was mostly useless… He sighed. You can make physical duplicates of yourself and for one entire evening you shadowed a group of Shinobi before leading them safely away from us. underwear. This isn't really a place of wealth. He had barely been more than handful of days with them. Material things rarely meant much to him. "What's that?" "A story. inspired by you. It might not seem like much of a story to you. His clothes were worthless.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 5 – FORBIDDING ENTRANCE Naruto hadn't really thought he'd stay with the Carnival for long. it will be interesting. shirt. nor any idea what had happened to it… not that he would've given it away if he had had it. We're just trying to survive in this world and maybe have some fun while we do it. he hadn't really thought he'd leave the group so soon." Naruto sighed and lowered his hand. even the fabric was so worn that it was no use. even if for a little while." Yonige chuckled." "Really?" Naruto asked with disbelief. They prided in existing without external aids and going wherever they wanted by their own means." "I feel a bit guilty. He couldn't even teach anyone any of his Ninjutsu. who joins a punch of refugees and then a Carnival. "They come. and only through one festival." Naruto sighed." 40 . mysteriously out of his senses. but it somewhat sucked when he realised he had nothing to give. rubbing the back of his head. He frowned. and then they take off. He didn't even have the first Hokage's necklace anymore. "Some here pay more than others and others have nothing to pay with. but with few retellings. But the people of the carnival neither needed nor wanted that sort of favours.accepting favours and never paying back for them after all was laziness and just plain mean. He hadn't really taken it in before. but if they were satisfied with that. but maybe the mask was as good as. He loved a good story. that is. Don't worry. He didn't know the man that well anyway. Instead he merely walked past the man and towards the edge between the nomads. the man selling the masks took out the fox mask Naruto had returned some time after taking Jiraiya to the town. not really happy to see Yonige describe the carnival so. and whilst wearing a mask it was hard to see what it looked like. He had no head band to make him ninja of the Hidden Leaf and he had no demon to make him a Jinchuuriki. as he had only grabbed it because it was the closest thing. If you make a theatre act outta me. half of us will be gone. and the ruthless world they tried to shut out. "Thanks. "You're giving me this?" Naruto asked. though." he said." Naruto smiled grimly. Giving last thought of the life he might've been able to lead in the Carnival. On his way he saw Shindoi in her pretty yukata. Story of Arashi. If they managed to engineer one out of him. Most of those who leave us tend to be happy to see the last of us. he wasn't going to blame them. "I suppose it's a heartening sentiment. "Here. you know. then that was all right with him. It was a simple thing." Yonige smiled crookedly. You weren't exactly a member. He hadn't known her that well either. for now. it might even be a hit. "People tend to come here without anything. We tend to be the pit beyond the finish line where those who lost their races end up falling. "We have a sort of unofficial tradition among the group. I doubt they really look back to their Carnival days fondly.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "The whole mask thing with the Leaf-nin ." "You also tend to be the fondest childhood memories people have. "We'll have a good story out of it in no time at all. I guess I should try and make sure I'll see it one day. With different markings it could've just as easily been a cat mask or raccoon mask.and we all saw you being all friendly with the Jounin …" Yonige chuckled. After moment of talking. red with black lines to make it fox like. "Why?" "Tradition. "It all balances out that way. The carnival people had strange way of looking at things. the Fox-mask ninja. so we get them something when they leave. He looked up. but seeing her in conversation he decided not to bother her.both in the past and in the future. motioning Naruto to follow. "Now get out of here. Yonige bought the mask and then turned to Naruto." he said and threw the mask at him. "I expect by the time you do come back. to see how you guys are doing. "About when members leave. It reminded him too much of both the Kyuubi and Gaara. The mask was pretty cheap." Yonige agreed and led him towards one of the stalls. but you weren't bad so I might as well honour the tradition." Naruto looked down to it and sighed. He set it on his head." Yonige seemed satisfied before nodding towards the edge of the camp. to rest atop his hair. "If you say so." Naruto answered. With little bit of honing. oddly enough." he answered. to the fleeting 41 . though." he said. He had nothing but happy memories of the Carnival . "I think I will come back one day." Naruto hesitated and then nodded." Naruto blinked with confusion while the man walked to the stall and talked with the manager." Yonige shrugged. looking down to the mask. It would be useless to offer words of goodbye. The rest never amounted to much . And he still had fallen a little short of Madara. Senjutsu had shot him right past them.or worse yet. x It was the last year of his travels with Jiraiya when the longest. summoning contract had taken him even further and then Rasenshuriken had even closer still. He hadn't realised that all their strength and prowess were literally immeasurable until Jiraiya had sat him down and explained everything . Now he didn't know if he had any of that anymore.explained the facts of Shinobi life which should've been obvious from the start to which Naruto had been completely oblivious to. the Kages and the Akatsuki were the faction of a percentage. The rest were the rarest. Naruto walked away and to the unknown. Seven to eight hundred ninja altogether. The Kyuubi was gone and the seal on his 42 . past Jiraiya and Tsunade. Too knowledgeable to waste. too weak to ever become anything impressive. And though Naruto hadn't been equal to them that time. simplest and still hardest lesson he had ever had finally had sank into his mind and he realised that he was living in a metaphorical mountain range. all of sudden. but usually under the age of seventeen.Shinobi like Iruka and Mizuki were painfully common. He had gotten adjusted to having enemies like Akatsuki and Orochimaru. Approximately five hundred Genin had graduated in Hidden Leaf during those fifty years . The ones of those hundreds who had became great could be counted with one hand .Naruto had already gotten used to people such as Kakashi. not at twenty. Genin and Chuunin who were given missions too difficult them and who died unable or in order to complete them . even past Nagato.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN wish of maybe one day seeing Shindoi happy and Yonige not so hollow and maybe even witnessing light of sanity return to Creature's eyes.not at thirty. not unless you looked down and saw the rocks and particles of sand in the valleys between. The Kyuubi had brought him near. he had become so. Before he had even fully realised what Shinobi were and what they did . To him having equal in someone like Gaara was perfectly normal and commonplace. the Third. Hidden Leaf had only produced four or five Kage level Shinobi. Only one tenth of all people who became Shinobi became Jounin or special Jounin.plus about two to three hundred unofficial graduates who had became the unknowns and were from young age trained as members of the Anbu. People like the Three Great Ninja. It was hard to see the mountains as mountains when you stood upon the peaks. Strength was easy to measure completely wrong when you were surrounded by monsters.and two of the fingers had to be cut because they had became missing-nin. and had been ever since he had been twelve years old. Most Shinobi died at young age . And then. the Root and the Hunter-nin. In more than fifty years. Jiraiya and Tsunade. they died in wars they were ill prepared to fight.and how hard they all strived to horde their strength and powers . And two thirds of those died before their fifth year of being such. Though he had developed the jutsu into more controllable and less dangerous form. His breath slowly turned steady and then distant. and in the end Jiraiya had honed his mastery of survival by his own lessons . no Shinobi whose chakra he could've sense. The mountain above him and around him inhaled and exhaled and soon sensation came back like rush of warm water all over his body. He didn't dare to try Rasenshuriken anymore . In a small cavern at the root of the mountain. It was odd to see the village full of life but it barely bothered him as he settled almost four miles away from it. it still did damage to him .and whole lot of explaining about what is and isn't edible in the wilderness. back when the mountain had been older and with considerably more holes. but not anymore.and without the Kyuubi there to heal him. but it sustained him easily enough and though 43 . training with Jiraiya. The forests of Fire Country were teeming with life. the family of badgers not far away. Naruto settled himself into a root of a small mountainside. was severely unfitting for the task of calming his heart and body and tuning his very mind out. not many Shinobi did meditate . away from its small and not so insignificant mining town. and not much of it could outrun him. but he could sense the earth and the nature. The village had been abandoned at that time. with his wild and boisterous mind and body which always demanded action and could only stay still in sleep or dead faint. his blood flowing at the same pace as a mountain brook not too far away. it was a risk he couldn't take. But jumping into a pond of frog oil could teach even the most stubborn of all ninja some new tricks. That time was yet to come. His childhood had taught it to him in emotional level . he wasn't too worried. as the contract of toad summoning at this time did not bear his signature and he lacked the right connection. x Naruto could survive without people easily enough.though he had never appreciated the lesson . He had been there before. He had never gotten it.the ones who did were either very old fashioned or had bloodlines which required extreme chakra control. He smiled with contentment. he sat down and meditated. the small bird nesting above the caver. he was still a Sage. though. and breathed in with deep satisfaction. Tsunade had said he'd risk losing ability to perform jutsu altogether. So. but… that was the question.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN belly held nothing inside it anymore. Sure.and ninja academy had completed the training in physical level.with the Kyuubi there it had been easy and safe. He. Then. the most powerful one next to the Kyuubi himself… did he still have it? A day after leaving the Carnival. rabbit meat was no ramen. Despite no longer being a Shinobi and no longer being a Jinchuuriki. He could feel the air shivering around him. wasn't it? The last weapon in his arsenal. when he made his way through wilderness with haphazard idea of where to go. the mines long since emptied of all of its precious ore. And despite jumping into it often. There was no people around to be felt. Naruto hadn't really wanted to turn into a frog. He could vaguely remember how Iruka sensei had tried to teach it to him long ago. the demon's chakra had niftily repaired the damage. He could maybe do it in Sage mode. the mice in their hole at the edge of it. He could no longer summon. like the Hyuuga and the Yamanaka. and one by one his thoughts faded away. for patience and for chakra control. Kakashi had also had his hand at it. A knife would've been grand as well. "Not exactly Shinobi gear. He figured that the umbrella would come in handy once he would reach his destination. umbrella. tent. Despite absence of the Kyuubi. but ask around if there was any work available.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN he usually hated vegetables." he explained over and over while going around and asking if there was anything he could do for little bit of money. "What kind of ninja works chores to buy this sort of stuff?" the store keeper asked while counting the money . making not only sleeping but travelling difficult as well. not much but better than nothing . He left behind few very surprised employers. but for Naruto. The lack of money was a problem. "If you can cut down that old tree over there. they were more than enough. patched up rooftop.some spices and maybe proper cooking gear would be nice too. Living under the sky could be romantic in some cases. While counting the money he had made .it was enough and left him with few ryo. "If you can fix my roof…" said someone else and so forth. civilians might've had harder time finding something to eat. this. hoping to get a place to sleep and buy some things from there. The cloak was something of a disappointment . And this is where ninja ends up when they have no money and make no plans. Instead he bought old rucksack from the village's only second hand store along with a pot and knife and last of his money he spent on second hand cloak and a well made bangasa umbrella.but the umbrella was perfect.he counted his blessings as well. When the train continued for two days straight. the all the work was finished within half an hour.he could survive. a somewhat well mended garden and very well uptrend rice field. maybe bedroll . which Naruto found during the third day of his rather haphazard travelling. he decided that he couldn't go on without gear." Naruto answered while opening the umbrella. They were little task and offered mere pocket money.just little under thousand. and I'll pay you. cutting fish and rabbits with sharp rocks and bare hands and then cooking them by holding them on a stick over fire wasn't exactly wonderful. Doing so in a rain without a tent or shelter however was not so romantic. Thus. The ryo he had made wasn't enough to buy everything he wanted. a completely constructed picket fence. The 44 . however. he still thankfully had larger than normal chakra reserves." one old woman snapped at him. I'll give you hundred ryo. Well. so he didn't buy a tent at all." her neighbour said. "But I don't have any money. they were sweetly abundant in the forests. Surviving and being comfortable while at it were two different things however and there were some things about his upcoming that weren't too appealing. With the Senjutsu he pinpointed the nearest large concentration of humans and made his way towards a small village. Either way. "Rake my field and I'll give you fifty ryo .it was dark grey and just gloomy ." a local farmer offered. With hundred clones and some wind manipulation on the tree which had apparently been threatening to fall onto a near by house. pile of fire wood. the first thing he did in the small backwater village wasn't to find a shop or in. being alone and without any gear didn't worry him . "I was hoping to buy some camping gear. maybe they were for a ninja who could over up to sixty miles in single hour and had good observational skills." "It's better than nothing.and after that you can get out of my sight. "Dig up all the stones and rocks from my vegetable field. so… if you have anything I could do…" He had asked dozen people the same question when the villagers got annoyed to at him and finally got him something to do. Naruto had a feeling it would be quite different from the other side though." he grinned as the man handed him his change back. he needed to find the subtle. If he was seen. after all. After some thought. 45 . but they were strong and suspicious to bitter end. Slipping to the border would be easy." "Ah. The border between Land of Fire and Land of Rain wasn't exactly tightly guarded. The country had been the battlefield of several wars. However. x It took longer than it would've had he been travelling with someone with a map and better directional senses. unnoticeable way inside. He had no intention of storming the castle all by himself. Taking his umbrella and pulling it shut. huh?" Naruto murmured while taking hold of his mask. Naruto could feel that within two mile radius there was half dozen Shinobi in guard. good enough. But slipping past it was a whole different thing. He knew that would fall embarrassingly short or he would have to use so much force that he'd bring the wall down . though. the open country border which had been chopped clean of trees and cleared of biggest rocks to make the view undisturbed and unhindered. and the experience hadn't made it exactly trustworthy towards guests. but the tea house in the corner makes good udon. Naruto leaned it against his shoulder and pondered on the matter for a moment. There was about hundred miles worth of the border but there were only two guard stations there with on the boarded with two Chuunin at each station and few civilians.and the cloak was growing on him too. He couldn't hope to maintain Sage form for long without some tricks which he had no hope of doing that moment. And if what Naruto had heard of Hanzo was accurate. he didn't want his face becoming the next most wanted poster. "There wouldn't happen to be a place that sold ramen anywhere near by?" he asked hopefully. he sat down among the bushes and set himself for meditation. "No.it had already saved him from four rainy nights . the border was easy to just walk over. old man. "Thanks. but just moment in the mode would let him catch a glimpse of the surrounding area he otherwise would've been blind to. Rain Shinobi and people might've not been plentiful. There was the standard forty-feet long gap between the countries. and they weren't mere Chuunin. No.but Rain had lot to fear from Fire. and pulling it to his face. but he had gotten adjusted to that. here that forty feet gap ended in a wall almost as high as the wall surrounding Hidden Leaf. By that time he had grown very fond of his umbrella . and even without needing to use Senjutsu. which was resting on top of his hair. He had also learned that the pot he had bought made the food made in it taste funny.and that would get Fire into trouble. Naruto continued his journey towards the Country of Rain. but Naruto eventually made it to the country border. It was probably like that along the whole border.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN carefully oiled paper was in colour of faded red which looked orange when seen in right light. It was ugly. but pleasantly warm. They had no need to guard the board on Fire's side since they had nothing to fear from Rain . With countries like Wave and such which had no ninja organisations established. "Who ever runs this place doesn't mess around. they were also very conscious of their security." With some stuff and stomach filled with warm food. He frowned. the construction of the barrier. Rain-nin really took their defence damn seriously. who had perfect Sage form. What about the ceasefire? These guys made it seem like they were expecting assault any day. automatically slipping into the Sage mode without much effort. And after that. to sense. he had been sneaking everywhere all the time. after all.to the rock it was made of. He spent two hours in deep meditation. but during their existence they brushed against so many living things that it left behind echoes. actually. Naruto knew he could get over the wall. It also seemed to have an odd quality to it .none of their own. His ninja career mostly consisted of explosions and running to or from something. he allowed his senses to spread. all of them heavily fortified.actually.he needed to figure something really smart. the more he thought of it. but thankfully the wall was coated in second-hand chakra due to high concentration of skilled. the wall went as far down as it went up. He could also sense at least one summon animal somewhere on the Rain's side. Few Kage Bunshin mid air to work as step stones. Before he had become a Genin. The outer layer.which meant one couldn't use chakra to run up it. It was somehow ironic that as a ninja he had done less sneaking around than he had done as a civilian. both annoyed and oddly intrigued by the challenge of slipping in unnoticed. As he wasn't too keen on doing neither . During the week. feeling out the surrounding area and the people in it. he could get over any high wall. He twitched in his meditation. but even he could tell how sturdy the structure was. Ground. Most things were impossible even for Naruto. thinking about the problem. was when you came and went without anyone noticing. Naruto was no builder. x Naruto camped near the border for a week. rocks. the one facing towards Fire country. having three sub-levels. Shinobi weren't all that stealthy most of the time. The wall was more like wall-shaped fortress than a wall. visible and noticeable. Six ninja proved out to be eight. two of them using some sort of chakra suppression technique to hiding their presence. turning his attention from the humans to the things which were trickier to sense. The guards didn't just do shifts there. Inanimate objects had chakra too . It was chakra repellent . he would have to either fight a lot or run even more. it was old half forgotten thing turned new by absence of use. making mental notes 46 . Or. and came up with nothing. It was hollow with rooms and corridors inside it. he would've just preferred being able to get inside without anyone noticing . really fast. seemed oddly… cold. Also. powerful Shinobi. Considering what they were meant to be. so sneaking was a new and novel experience for him. they seemed to live there around the clock. the material of the wall. Keeping his eyes closed. Naruto walked up and down a stretch of the border. the more it seemed like the only way inside would be very loud.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN The nature chakra surrounded him easily and while accepting it to his body he easily adjusted his chakra to accommodate it. a small and fast and on the air. The only time you were successful in a prank. A bird probably. However he wouldn't be able to do it unnoticeably. Actually. completely unnoticed. but he wasn't about to look his gift horse into the mouth. no matter how long it took. but he still knew that if he would walk out of the Fire country's forests. oddly enough… this time he didn't mind. and by the feel of them. He could sense the Rain-nin in the wall moving about in oddly hasty manner . The protection seemed impenetrable.knocked the man immediately out. The plan formed in his head. Nagato?" he asked quietly while rushing towards his targets.and it wasn't even really strong one . Danzo. they were all formidable. but he had picked enough from Jiraiya to tell that crossing this barrier by force would be a bad idea. he realised. As far as he knew.which he could make not only last indefinitely but make physical when necessary . just mimic everyone around him… He might be able to slip in to not only the Land of Rain. But that raised some more problems. so if he would take the spot of one of them and not speak a word. their identity immediately given away by a very familiar chakra. The only way to get over the wall without leaving evidence would be to fly. they couldn't be used. Taking out the ninja at the rear of the group was painfully easy. He needed to act. no. Party of Shinobi coming closer at the Fire's side. Couple dozen people had arrived to the wall.and towards the quickly approaching Root-nin. It was such a simple plan. There were almost none. Like Hidden Leaf which was closed in barrier sphere. the entire Rain Country wall had an invisible barrier. which meant it immediately sensed and sent out a warning when unauthorised person crossed it. Under that surveillance. Getting up. Root-nin were all supposed to be all quiet and subservient to their leader.and then.and it wasn't like one of those old castles with rough wall made of round stones. hasty and flawed but hopefully it would be good enough. this. too good to be true. when opportunity presented itself.it could just work. Naruto realised. But stubbornness was what Naruto was best at. making climbing by mere physical might simply impossible without loud tools that left signs. "Was this your plan all along?" As bothersome the thought of being manipulated usually was to him. but also the Hidden Village of Rain. and in Sage mode he could feel them. the barrier. some five minutes later. as the wall was riddled with lot of eye-holes and all the time there was at least one Rain-nin atop the wall. there was nothing there to hold onto. The timing was. where the view was no doubt perfect. Two dozen on Rain's side and twenty on Leaf's side. Quickly Naruto hid himself in the bushes and fell into meditative state to get a clearer image of the situation.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN and trying to find blind spots. He was going to get into the country and without anyone noticing him. Naruto opened his momentarily changed eyes and dashed into the bushes . Naruto made a clone on 47 . there was suddenly five times as many of then. Naruto was no master at sealing. Naruto took special care to stay hidden and using his Senjutsu training enhanced senses to make sure that no one would sense his presence. The wall was made of precisely cut stones and the outside of it was polished smooth. The wall couldn't be climbed by normal means . "Did you plan. and he wasn't about to give up. An arranged meeting between two Shinobi factions. For once. He was at his third walk-along-the-wall of his seventh day of observing the wall. And they were Leaf-nin. A single Rasengan . but with Naruto's mastery over Henge . But though there were blind spots in the watch. It was a surveillance barrier. he would immediately be spotted. metallic mask. Then. happy as hell that Iruka and Sakura had drilled the common formations to his head. Old man Hokage had nearly kicked Orochimaru's ass. Naruto had found during his time. Maybe this was even that time. as he watched. was the fact that they fooled people around them by being old farts. Shaking the feeling of being unsettled by the man . All one eyed Shinobi in Naruto's eyes had been hiding one. only hoping to any deity listening that Danzo was about to be let inside the walls. now in shape of man about five years older than he was who had dark hair and broken tooth on left side. Or few. Hanzo and his guard made their way up the wall with disgusting ease. but lacked the chakra-repelling effect. Danzo didn't seem to any Sharingan. The entire exchange took about four seconds and. you had to be damn good. Naruto followed. Danzo was younger than Naruto had ever considered him ever having been. Only the powerful ones grew old. In fraction of a second he was on top of the wall and then following the others down to yard which looked like it had been through a 48 . He was also unnervingly able bodied. Naruto took the spot of the rear guard. looked ahead. Naruto. In the chakrarepelling stones there were incorporated other ones which looked identical. Of course. it had seemed.until the point he brought out the whole Sharingan thing. And that to get old in Shinobi world.who would never be the Hokage ever if Naruto had any say in it . The two leaders met in the middle of the field. taking especial care with where he stepped and how much chakra he applied.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN the fly to make sure to that the Root-nin wouldn't catch up with the others. The time when Hanzo would betray Nagato and his friends and force one of them to commit suicide… Hanzo and Danzo spoke for two minutes. naturally. To Naruto's utter dismay. Danzo did the same. getting into formation around Danzo and waiting. thankfully. They were few and far between. his senses locked of Danzo who had no idea he was being tracked. who simply jumped down from the wall and landed on the ground on the other side of the field.Naruto looked ahead. and impossible to find even by Senjutsu enhanced senses. The Rain-nin wouldn't make a wall they themselves couldn't cross. Jiraiya had been slightly younger old guy and without doubt one of the five strongest people Naruto had ever met during his life. like breathing apparatus. He frowned but didn't try to inch forward. He had his company like Danzo had and Naruto suddenly had a creeping suspicion that this was Hanzo. as if the chakra-repelling rocks weren't even there. They had come to the edge of border and Danzo was slowing down. Right now. thanks to the speed the Leaf-nin were travelling. outside of Naruto's hearing range. The problem with old farts. In his time the man had seemed like little more than crippled old fart . not unless one knew where they were. After most of the group had made their way up. but he was already a little bandaged. Tsunade had been a backwards old hag who had looked young and able bodied at her fifties. The party stopped entirely once the reached the stripped border. The key in keeping track of them was to remember that they hadn't always been old. after which he cast his Henge and followed the others. Then Danzo beaconed his Shinobi to follow. the leader of Rain during the time before Nagato had taken over. They waited for one minute and then were joined in the field by a blonde haired man with odd. they were already out of hearing range in the first of those four seconds. Old people were creepy. The weak ones died young. Now. This will be a test none of us will wish to fail. with growing trepidation.Shinobi from Leaf followed without a word an Naruto. Maybe they had. It was as if someone had hurled thousand bombs over the wall. "I lead. as he glanced around and saw only bare ground and rocks all around. but the whole situation had gotten very warped very quickly and the fact that he had no idea what was going on nagged in the back of his mind. No wonder it came with so many depressing tales. he felt the first rain drop. Fifteen minutes. They were too busy running." Hanzo was saying as Naruto joined his comrades. like remains of particularly vicious explosions. it didn't seem to matter that he ran out of the extra energy . Circle of sorrow. His twenty . that was what it was. 49 . Half and hour and good thirty miles later. Instead it was steady in the same way a river was steady .the way which indicated that it had been going for a while. and that it could continue for a while longer. but stay on your guard. we will discuss about the rest later. The land was aptly named. he found out. he realised that this was a country without a single sunny day.or nineteen . It wasn't heavy or even particularly dark. too. Twenty minutes. safely out of sight. he realised. painstaking waiting later." "Agreed. Thankfully. took the rear once more. "We will go about this as agreed. The entire ground was stripped bare of any life with holes and shattered rocks everywhere. They ran and ran and ran and steady. and that it would never end. Naruto tried to keep cool and now show how nervous he was. to a rocky valley where they took the high ground. they stopped at last. Land of the Rain was a land where nothing grew because it never got sunlight. Then they waited.his Henge held and no one suspected anything. Fifteen minutes of silent. Or maybe it was raining because of the depressing tales." Silence answered him and with satisfied nod he turned to follow Hanzo. Follow. Five minutes after leaving the wall. he glanced at his people. Danzo. That was when Nagato arrived with his friends. Ten minutes. Naruto's Sage mode went and came without anyone noticing. He had thought that it just rained pretty often. and no one questioned him. "Let's move out. Test? He wondered nervously and suddenly was painfully aware that he had no idea whether or not Hanzo and Danzo had had dealings before Nagato's friend's death. Danzo had no reason to doubt his own people." Danzo nodded and as Hanzo and his two dozen headed off. fast pace. and his face was getting wet as if he had been running through thick mist. If this goes as planned. while Danzo and Hanzo exchanged few words. it seemed. Naruto lingered in the back of the Leaf-nin group. Or that it had never really begun at all. and they were suddenly running in the most depressing rain he had ever seen outside the Third Hokage's burial ceremony. you follow.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN recent and very destructive battle. Naruto felt something moist brushing against his cheek. other half to take Hanzo's 50 . He had no plan. no one to back him up… but that had never stopped him before. "Yahiko. not-yet-starved Nagato . wide eyed. And Naruto had beaten Nagato. He needed to do something. But Nagato had beaten him." he turned Nagato's orange haired friend. What was it with powerful Shinobi that made them stall like this? Akatsuki had done it too every now and then. It was as good as it was going to get.Hiko or something . I'll let this girl free. This was where Nagato had turned into Pain. the Henge falling from over him as fifty Bunshin shot forward." Nagato stared at the kunai. he knew. "If you don't. "Don't. circling around Danzo's ninja and bringing his hands into a seal. His Kage Bunshin appeared without a verbal command. Now. The scuffle that followed was short and brutal and Naruto thanked heavens that powerful ninja often risked common sense for sense of drama . "If you do.and had taken away any chance they had of escaping. "You. no chances given. Jiraiya and Orochimaru in the Second Great Ninja War. throwing a kunai at Nagato's feet. If you don't…" he held a kunai on Konan's neck. taunting and flaunting their opponent's weakness and not even trying all that hard to beat them. Konan ended up as a prisoner." Hanzo called. no idea whether it would work. Before Naruto got the chance to realise that this was it. the fight was already over. Was it that everyone was so far below them that they didn't need to make any effort? Or that inside they were afraid that their opponents were stronger than they were and would beat them with half a chance? His frown darkened. so many tragedies would be prevented.Hanzo didn't try to kill the three outright even though he had the advantage and instead went for the weakest. Nagato! Don't worry about me! You two just get out of here!" Naruto frowned at the kunai. this girl will die here and now.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 6 – FOX SAGE No words were said. "As the leader you will die here today. "Your gang had been the thorn on my side for too long. didn't seem to much older than he was . Hanzo's and Danzo's people had already surrounded the three ." Yahiko said below them. maybe. half to take Danzo's nineteen Shinobi. "Do it! Nagato!" Everyone was concentrating onto Yahiko and Nagato. "Nagato.from dying. "Kill me. while Konan opened her mouth and screamed." Nagato didn't move." Hanzo spoke finally. Naruto shot into movement. Naruto still considered it fair odds. Even without the Kyuubi or summoning. Everything grew still for a moment and only the rain moved. It didn't matter.who. Hanzo might've beaten Tsunade. with the red hair! Use this to kill him. so if he would manage to keep his friend . Nagato would become real saviour instead of the almost-destroyer he had ended up being.healthy. Naruto tensed and thought fast and hard. leaving her two companions surrounded in a rocky valley. Before Nagato . when Naruto looked more closely at them. And maybe." Naruto could see Nagato start slightly and grimaced. Under the Henge.or his friends had the change to really fight back. he reached for the fox mask and pulled it to cover his features. He would fight to end this without causalities. He was also used to worse opponents than these.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN twenty four. the clones had even managed to take out a few. Naruto went for Hanzo who. to be honest.and with few well aimed Rasengans. The Kage Bunshin already had a Rasengan ready and before Hanzo's Shinobi caught Naruto. He had gotten adjusted to being underestimated even in the direst of circumstances. "Actually. and knee up to Hanzo's back to make him disoriented. the Rasengan caught Hanzo. but they were enough to distract them . Naruto's chakra was always evenly split between himself and his clones. Twist with right hand to pull Hanzo's left arm. Once upon a time Naruto would've been surprised by the order. Another twist of arm to secure the kunai in the man's hand and kick to behind the knee to throw his balance completely off. his eyes widening as he saw Naruto's clones rampaging among the rest of the Shinobi. It he had hundred. "Who the hell…" Hanzo growled. the attack would've caught him out of guard and might've even taken him down. Five hundred clones made five hundred very weak clones. Naruto jumped up to the air. For a while the rain glowed red and orange. Toads were also most protective of all summons. He brought his hands to a seal and grinned behind the mask. or by the ensuing attack." he answered. Once upon a time he had been naïve enough to think that having a leader as a hostage was enough to end a fight.even without Senjutsu to back them up. I came with Danzo. aren't you? You sneaked in after them?" Naruto grinned and smiled. In result Hanzo crumbled to his knees. It was like made for saving hostages. was ill prepared for the attack. The whole sequence was executed within few seconds "Go. Toads had no fangs and claws and often they couldn't even use weapons. The thing about shadow clones was that the more there were of them. each had one hundredth of his strength. But what shadow clones lost in strength. no one ever took his threats seriously. "You're one of their friends. before half thousand of his clones descended upon the Shinobi below. Hanzo-san?" Hanzo hesitated before turning under Naruto's hold. so if he had one clone. with his Shinobi standing behind him protecting him and Konan taking his attention in the front. "Now. especially since he didn't have the Kyuubi's chakra to back him up." Naruto snapped to shocked Konan. As the man slumped to the ground with a hole on the side of his uniform and blood coming from his lips. Clones weren't enough to take Shinobi of this level. Once upon a time. mm. As Naruto took hold of the man's elbow and waist. they gained in ability . But Shinobi could feel intentions and as Naruto didn't intend to kill. his abilities and most 51 . he blessed Frog Katas . Hanzo. But currently they didn't hold a candle to Akatsuki. which gave a flavour to the fighting style which Naruto very much liked. the weaker they were. "Kill him!" he yelled at his people. In the split-second of chaos that ensued.because they were exact clones of him they had his memories. pull by left hand to bring him out of balance. it had half his strength. Danzo and their people were good. his own kunai pointed at his neck. so the Toad style of hand-to-hand combat was aimed mostly towards making the opponent harm himself with his own strengths and weapons. how about telling your Shinobi to stand down. reaching to take one of Hanzo's kunai to secure it to the man's neck. who hastily scrambled to her feet and joined Nagato and Yahiko. who seemed relieved and confused at the same time. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN of all. the only one still in his original form. guys. My clones aren't going to keep them busy for long." he continued cheerfully while idly turning the umbrella's handle in his palm. but they still had ten to one advantage ." He glanced at Nagato and his friends who still seemed unsure about whether he was a friend or enemy. Most of the time Henge was useless against Shinobi. "Who are you?" the bandaged called to Naruto. they were too disoriented to make difference. Danzo. or something." "Why?" Yahiko demanded to know." Naruto smiled behind the fox mask. had never been fooled by the clones. making the entire umbrella spin. "I'm here to help. Naruto had been using massive amounts of clones in each of his fights from when he had been twelve. up to the natural stone walls surrounding them.the more specialised uses of his clones didn't do much when most his opponents could see through his schemes. not really. and had instead secured Hanzo. hm?" Danzo asked." He frowned as he noticed someone who wasn't at all occupied with the clones. if that helps. He nodded ahead. That gave Naruto a rare chance to use his clones in a way he had dreamed off for a while now. These Shinobi." "No. "Think of me as travelling door-to-door wisdom salesman. "I'm just a Sage." Naruto snorted at them. unsurprisingly." Naruto answered mockingly. "You said you come here with us. "Relax. Many of them were quickly dispelled. his eyes on the chaotic fight. The three backed away from him. The other uses were often useless because of the calibre of the guys he ended up fighting . Nagato now holding the kunai Hanzo had supplied up in defence. "Yup.aside from few specialities like wood clones . and he knew exactly where their strengths lied and how to utilise them. I think we ought to get out of here. "You catch on quick. his skills. however.that could perform Ninjutsu and manipulate their chakra. "A Sage. as having hundred or so identical guys come at you could be highly distracting. Naruto." Naruto answered honestly. or fight. "Because of your teacher.and with each clone dispelled. "Eyes on the game.and gave the enemy a split second chance. it was a little startling . At least they seemed a little more trusting of him than initially. More clones were being dispelled as the enemy quickly figured out how to deal with them. But it turned into a complete chaos when they Henged into those they were fighting. which was all Naruto's clones needed. narrowing his lone visible eye. making the three of them start." With a laugh he pulled out his umbrella from his rucksack and idly pushed it open. Shadow clones were the only type of clone . grinned before jumping down to Nagato and his friends. passing through. the rest got a little stronger as its strength was divided among the remaining clones. but which would've made no difference in all his previous fights. but in a battle where your enemies look exactly like you and your comrades. "You know. Mostly he used them as distraction these days. The rain was really irritating and he was more than glad he had chosen it instead of the tent. Having five hundred clones come at you was shocking. You're not from this land originally." 52 . If there were some among these Shinobi who had the ability to see through illusions. Anonymity was pretty fun. weren't ones with Sharingan or Rinnegan or even Byakugan. it was admirable. It was. we make do with what we have and try to help anyone we can without resorting to violence. pulling his umbrella shut and setting it down to the floor to lean against the bench. In a middle of a war ravaging through their nation. which wasn't even part of the war. there could be only one reason why they were there. Quiet Nagato nodded hastily as handful of Shinobi moved to attack. Naruto brought his hands together. running his hands through his hair in attempt to stop the water from dribbling to his eyes." Yahiko said immediately as more of Naruto's clones were dispelled and few of the Shinobi who had been fighting them turned their attention on the four of them instead. motion passed. with the history he had with Nagato and Yahiko as the Deva Path and Akatsuki's leader. "There's always someplace to go. The ceasefire has been a blessing.there was even a stove in the cave for warmth. taking out couple of kunai as precaution." he told them his fake name. Still. which had been tediously made liveable by some rough furniture and lanterns . "Alright. "We take everyone we can. "Seconded. and ran. and you seemed like interesting bunch of people. though. Let's go. Danzo behind them yelling orders at them. "Good thing I came too.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I vote for getting out of here." Naruto nodded. "Since we didn't have much chance for introductions before. and pushed back his mask. Naruto grinned and sat down to a nearest empty bench. "Just like that?" "He told me about you. At least if what Nagato had told him about their group and their goals in the future was right. He had only seen one tunnel and handful of doors before he had been brought into the rather large cavern where they currently were. but we're not exactly well funded and most of the time we're too late to help anyone." Yahiko answered. they strived for 53 . It just rarely is a place you want to go. Considering what he had heard of Rain. "You met Jiraiya-sensei in a carnival and just decided to come here?" Konan asked a little disbelievingly. how do you know Jiraiya-sensei? You said you're here because of him?" Yahiko asked while Naruto curiously looked around in the hideout the three had brought him to. some of them younger than Naruto had been when he had graduated from Academy. He launched another massive shadow clone art for distraction as the four of them turned tail." Naruto shrugged. folding his arms and looking around." Yahiko said and as they backed away a little. "Do all these kids have nowhere to go?" he asked quietly. but he couldn't help but wonder if this group of ragtag kids were the most admirable Shinobi faction he had ever encountered. a network of caves." Naruto shrugged.not that Naruto needed it really. You looked like you were in trouble. balancing the umbrella on the crook of his elbow. He felt like he was soaked all the way to the bone. as far as he could tell. though of course he hadn't seen all of it." Konan agreed quickly. "I met him in a carnival. It was getting late but there was still handful of kids around. The three unofficial Rain-nin stared at him with surprise as they saw he was a little younger than they were. It was odd. x "So. "My name is Kazama Arashi." The three nodded slowly and quickly introduced themselves ." he said and glanced around them again. " The entire gang under Yahiko's leadership consisted about two dozen people. But thankfully it didn't take them too long to realise how needlessly complicated the scheme for that would've been . know it. He turned to face Yahiko. Of course." Yahiko nodded. "They were physical clones.and without weird world-dominating jutsu or twisted logic. "Did you learn it from him?" "No. and equally hopeful. If these guys were good at something. It all seemed painfully sad. and here you. mostly kids who were either middle of haphazard training or had no training at all. that clone art you did." Naruto shrugged and grinned. Was it Kage Bunshin?" "You know it. Many were badly wounded. The orange haired Shinobi. Those weren't good odds." he said. they didn't trust him at first. Yahiko was the group's undisputed leader." Naruto murmured through the nails sticking out of his mouth. "Considering the odds against you…" he murmured. "A forbidden technique from the Hidden Leaf. but not elemental. a Shinobi from Rain. "Means best left untold. who would now never be Nagato's Deva Path. it was learning. "We're not gonna run out of work anytime soon around here. Yahiko-san?" Naruto asked with mild surprise.the endless flow of water had pored so many holes through the land that there was certainly no shortage of them. But then he had a village and home and safe place to turn to. and that the whole thing had been staged to insert him into their group. It was mostly Yahiko's doing. their heaviest hitter . which was in some cases only reason they still kept going. War had rattled them roughly and it was a miracle they had survived at all . Naruto thought. their motivational force. looking confused. had thoughtful look. while he and Naruto were working to make a new bed for one of the kids who had grown out of her previous one." Yahiko said once. "Though I suppose you saw it with Jiraiya-san?" "Yeah. though Naruto was let in to the group. The other nodded. What did these people have? Each other and a dream. dream of peace. few were even missing limbs. fellow student of Jiraiya's though Yahiko didn't know that. "There's always something. It was enough to warm the people around Yahiko even when it was raining cats and dogs. This wasn't like the hardships he was adjusted to. "Is there anything I can do to help?" The orange haired Shinobi.not to mention surviving with such a strict and positive goal. Naruto found very soon. really had a single goal in life. making him raise his eyebrows. strived for his goal and dream with such single minded optimism that it reminded Naruto of himself.and why to insert a spy when Hanzo could've simply had them killed that time? "Arashi-san. What about it?" "Why Kage Bunshin? Aren't elemental clones easier to do?" 54 . Most of them were as young as or much younger than him. invented by the First and Founding Hokage. one betrayal had taught them quickly and efficiently. and sighed. I learn it by other means. It was better than he would've managed in their shoes. Even the best of Hidden Leaf Shinobi hadn't been able to do that.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN nothing but peace .their sacrificial guardian. The group. Their own Fourth Hokage. but by not fighting. gave him a half suspicious. Since Naruto had supposedly come from Fire Country's side. They all lived in the caverns that seemed to be found everywhere in Country of Rain . they suspected that he was a spy at first. he realised soon. but these people were surviving. " he added. maybe. but Kage Bunshin is actually pretty simple if you know the trick of it. "I suppose that explains it." Naruto smiled. I have pretty large chakra reserves. When Jiraiya-sensei used the clone. I have lot of chakra. if my clone dispelled about fifty miles away. as well as some of their attacks." "Splits your chakra between you and the clones." he shrugged. The rest tend to blow up to my face. He on other hadn't didn't even do the seals anymore and he only threw the combination seal mostly due to habit these days. "Aside from the fact that the chakra drain could kill most Shinobi..it's not like elemental clones that get one tenth or one fifth.and you ." "Hmm…" Yahiko leaned against the frame of the half finished bed.. it would give us enough time to evacuate! Oh. "I've been wondering about something. so the further the clone is from me. It uses lot of chakra . "It's useful. I'd know something was wrong . If I make hundred… well. "When one of them is dispelled. my chakra is split between them and me . it has half of my chakra..but making shadow clones becomes second nature when you use it enough." Yahiko murmured. though.. I think the limit is about ten miles." Naruto shrugged..and it has its weaknesses . To the unfamiliar. "Even if I could make just one clone." "That would make them an incredible spying tool. the warning system would be perfect! The moment it dispels. He had learned more from the short fight than any normal Shinobi would've. the more chakra is wasted during the journey from where it is to me.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Well. weapons and preferred fighting styles of both Hanzo's and Danzo's people.they Henged and I saw them use that wind attack. but after completing Rasenshuriken. but like I said. it had became one of the major reasons. "I get the clone's memories. Yours could to Ninjutsu ." Naruto shrugged. his eyes widening.. it would help a lot! We're stretched thin trying to guard this place. Though I guess it could be like that with most Shinobi arts as well…" Naruto hummed. When I perform Kage Bunshin. the rest get that clone's chakra . He now knew the faces. Kage Bunshin could be difficult. It hadn't been a reason originally as he had had no idea. I wouldn't get the chakra or the memories." he specified. so it's a perfect jutsu for me. It's also the only clone I can do. The three of 55 . "I've been using it so many years like that. if I have one Bunshin. So. "Or learning tool. I experienced it five hundred times. But there was something about the three that just struck him as right. "That fight against Hanzo's and Danzo's people. nor Konan or Nagato. And moving the chakra between clones and me takes energy. Can all Kage Bunshin do that?" "That's why Kage Bunshin is a forbidden technique in the first place.and if we'd be under attack. but if I could have a clone like that on the look out. it would be all wasted on the way.get?" "Normally. Kage Bunshin equal amount. but not perfect. Thought wont that mean that the more clones you make." "Can you teach the clone to me too?" Yahiko asked eagerly. it could do Taijutsu and acted separately from him. He didn't know Yahiko well enough yet.and all the experience the clone gained during its existence. "Also. the weaker they . say." "Exactly. and I could be in two places at once I could have the clone going over plans with Nagato and Konan while real me is teaching the younger kids!" Naruto regarded him for a moment." He grinned when the other gave him a curious look." Yahiko murmured. whatever it was. So. getting that much information so quickly gives you one hell of a headache. then. there's one more reason why I use shadow clones. "Of course. Yahiko had things perfectly under control and Nagato and Konan were there to point everything he missed. There was lot to do." he trailed away. or they simply didn't know enough to teach. the boy whose legs ended in stumps just little below the knees. The kids had next to none physical training. it wasn't hard at all to motivate the kids. maintaining a society . "I think I could try and teach it to you. Konan only managed to make one clone. Among the two dozen of the gang.and one of them would've been Shikamaru." he assured Yoaruki. Yahiko made three and Nagato managed five. "There is always a way around any obstacle. The fact that few of them had been maimed by the mine fields of Rain didn't help . Nagato-san and Konansan too.and the rest of the gang were either equally busy with securing food and supplies. preferably. If he had ever become Hokage." Naruto said. They were the beginnings of something that might eventually lead into a world changing revolution . but there is always one.Nagato already knew it. so he was perfect for the job. Naruto would've been a major hindrance to the three of them as he wasn't particularly detail oriented. Yahiko wanted to teach them to defend themselves and each other if it would be necessary. one of them had no feet at all and one girl had been blinded by explosion. having them do physical exercise so that they'd get stronger." Thankfully. Naruto on other hand had nothing to do as he couldn't help with establishment and wasn't exactly good at thieving.. and he knew something about the subject.. Naruto took all advantage of that and threw himself into teaching them and making them better. Yahiko. we'll find it. he also 56 .was a different thing. And the fact that he could teach the nine kids individually by making clones to attend to each of them also helped.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN them the right idea. who had saved them. though. And so. "Especially Nagato-san. but for them it was more than enough when they realised the usefulness of the charka transfer. though. there were nine kids who were under the age of ten. "This sort of handicap is nothing. In all honesty. the revolution would do so much good. It might be hard to find. while teaching the kids how to use chakra. but he and the three leaders didn't have the time . But the disadvantages only made Naruto all the more keen to make them success. they were malnourished and most came from civilian families and thus had no affinity towards Shinobi arts.even a small one .and if it was played right. as he had very little to contribute. They made a habit of having clones as watchmen and having their clones study what little information they had gathered over the years of seeking peace. If Nagato could make Kage Bunshin work like the Six Path's of Pain. x Naruto didn't become part of the gang's small ring of leaders despite teaching the Kage Bunshin to Yahiko and Konan . Trust me. no matter how big it seems.. They were all eager to improve and become useful to their leader. didn't know enough about the land or it's problems and he knew that though he could lead people on a battlefield. Naruto didn't mind not being included. "Yeah.two of the kids only had one good leg left. having learned it by watching Jiraiya. Teaching. So. instead he turned to the second most important aspect of the life of their little gang." he added after moment of thought. maybe he would never create the horrible technique. he would've left that aspect to advisors . and they knew next to nothing of ninja arts.. she might even end up a toad-like. "Toad-like?" she asked and handed her origami to him." "Sage form of her own? It's not universal. absently folding a piece of paper in her hands." Yahiko mused while watching two of Naruto's clones teach Yoaruki how to walk again. but if we could even get some proper fish to eat. "No one around here has much money to throw around. Lot of things can go wrong when you're dealing with nature's energy. Supplies. Arashi-san. It was turning into a slender origami cat under her fingers.being able to sense energies around her would cover for the lack of sight. crude prosthetics for the boy with no feet." Konan gave him a confused look. but there can be so many different versions. and eventually made simple. But it was something. as did Yahiko. "I see having you teach them wasn't a bad idea at all. the simple fact that there were even few kids who couldn't read or write… and lack of recourses to give the handicapped ones proper crutches not to mention about prosthetics." Naruto said and smiled. 57 . and food. and thanks to little bit of prior training about chakra with Konan. she might develop a Sage form of her own. his footless student was hesitatingly walking with only his own crutches to support him. "I would advise against trying it now. folding his arms and frowning." Naruto shrugged and snorted softly. It wasn't easy and for first time of his life Naruto cursed himself for thinking his own childhood a difficult one. "It's good to see them coming along so well . "It's something. but after two years of being so handicapped. it will take lot of time. Will her form have animal attributes as well?" "If she manages to attain the form. yours." Naruto shook his head. He made better crutches to his one-legged students." Yahiko answered with a sigh. I mean?" Konan asked thoughtfully. He decided to teach the very basics of Senjutsu to the blind girl. it will take some characteristics from an animal she has affinity towards..their spirits are high up too. Maybe in few years and lot of training. "It's still not enough. Most of the basic jutsu is different as well. "We need to concentrate onto the main issues. The starvation.. There was one good thing about being in a place where people lacked resources and information. then. he practiced carving on what little wood they could easily find. Shiryoku .to you. We're trying to strike a deal with one of the fishermen from a near by village. it was all obvious. and had them do balance training so that they could manage one footed. like me. No one there knew enough to be at all surprised by Naruto's Senjutsu. we will have one issue less to worry about. and little further of them. The orange haired leader smiled. the handicaps. "With this much water around. "If she will. "Though I suppose it makes sense. Hidariyashi and Migiashi. after that. fastening them to the stumps with rough roes. the boy could stand. Yahiko-san." He didn't need to specify what he meant. but even then it won't be like mine." Naruto nodded." Naruto shrugged. All the whilst doing this.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN began working around the handicaps of the injured ones. Naruto joined his clones in proud applause. she was already on her way of extending her senses beyond her body." "They were only waiting for a chance to prove themselves . The boy would have to use crutches. "Will she be able to go into that Sage state of yours?" Konan asked curiously as they watched over the blind girl who was trying to navigate by sensing the energies around her. and something was whole lot better than nothing at all. The girl's determination had surpassed all others. You have good effect on them. " "Are you a monk?" Nagato asked. it was a fox." Naruto shrugged and said nothing else on that it was truthful without being too revealing." And he rather doubted Shiryoku would ever encounter the toads who could help her with that." "Yeah. I was just thinking. pale haired girl who was examining the back of a rough chair by holding her hands some inches over it. He didn't seem priestly.. "Anyway.. Sitting down and staying still is more fitting of monks.. "I've never even heard of art like that before now. He couldn't exactly look at himself in his Sage form. Shiryoku would never have enough chakra to use Kage Bunshin technique in conjunction of Senjutsu like he did. Arashi-san?" "You mess up the balance of chakra inside you. not before her chakra control is perfect. it was no wonder he had missed them. That I'm. there is a prophesy. "It doesn't matter. "And Senjutsu is pretty useless on the long run. he would've thought it was a joke." "What happens if you draw too much. "Why do you ask.an animal ." Naruto agreed. so if there had been changes. they might ask him and Jiraiya would know that it had never happened. If Nagato and the others would ever meet Jiraiya again... completely baffled. "That might actually be a good thing.. "And it's not really that surprising it's not commonly known. It needs to be perfect harmony of physical energy. but not draw upon it." Konan looked at the blind." she smiled softly. "I haven't?" he asked confusedly before shaking his head. spiritual energy and natural energy. I need to sit still for a long time to gather natural energy for it. for now I will teach her only to sense nature's energy.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I've seen you twice meditating with her." Naruto looked down to the origami. "About me. which makes if kinda difficult to use in a battle. and that's not something we want to happen to her. Shinobi tend to be more of noise and action oriented even these days. and neither time you looked at all toad-like.?" Naruto gave him an odd look.. like feeling the air around it. Naturally. It wasn't a cat. "It alone will give her a basis of becoming a great Shinobi.. If it had been anyone else. after all." "I was trained in it so that I could use it to protect my village. if you were a priest. "Well. Too much natural energy and it will transform you into a form more suitable of handling it . maybe not even then. But Nagato didn't really do jokes. There was that." she agreed." 58 . Nagato-san?" he instead asked. he couldn't say he had learned with the toads. "It might be best for now that she merely learns how to sense energies around her. "How did you learn Senjutsu?" Nagato was the only one who asked him that while he and Naruto were debating over whether or not Nagato could connect his Rinnegan to the Rinnegan of his shadow clones and thus gain larger field of vision.. "Or maybe a priest." Naruto considered it and then nodded in agreement. With nature's energy there is the risk that you draw too much of it. folding his arms." he said and turned to look at his teacher.and that's not transformation that can be undone.." Nagato hesitated frowning. sounding oddly fascinated by the idea. did he? "It's just that. and as far as he could see. Even if it had. We don't want to fight. that is. giving his eyes a slanted appearance. It was one thing to hear that there was prophesy about someone there." That night Naruto meditated and gathered the natural energy required to enter the Sage mode. But there was that one animal he couldn't get rid of no matter how he tried. it was still yellow. in addition to the changes . "But if its help you want. he didn't look much like a Toad Sage.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "That I'd know how to help you?" Naruto asked.and hesitated. the one he had held inside him for so long that he felt hollow without the constant presence . He had gotten rid of the Kyuubi inside him. Without the summoning contract or the constant companionship of toads. There was however something new in his Sage mode. but it seemed that the exposure would never leave him. suddenly realising. His eyes were different for one. "I guess a fox is always a fox. 59 . Konan had been right. Sage mode took characteristic from the animal you had closest affinity to. For a moment Naruto wondered how much Jiraiya told . Instead of the horizontal pupil of the toads. They looked almost like tattoos." he murmured and broke the water's surface with his hand.the whisker marks on his cheek were now red and thicker than normally. Naruto's affinity was no longer with them. After that he found a pool of water just little outside the cave and looked down to his reflection. and not the scars they usually seemed like." he answered honestly.had he included their either destroy or save the world bit . Another thing to hear that there was prophesy about you yourself. "I don't.the one he sometimes even missed a little. and the red over his eyelids extended along the side of his nose. Only thing the same there was the colour of his iris. dissolving the image of the Fox Sage he had became. he had vertical slit pupils. I'm definitely gonna try. somehow. What was it about eyes that made them so closely connected to Shinobi arts? There was the Sharingan. but Naruto had gone through three sets of different eyes.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 7 – WATER AND WIND It was somewhat amusing. he'd rather stick to normal eyes. with three sets of eyes. And finally. Rinnegan had been the first and started the whole thing. Nagato was either from one of those clans without knowing. there were his normal eyes.though. And Rinnegan seemed like way too much trouble to even consider. With Sasuke and Madara being the only ones of the Uchiha family left. It was no wonder that their users seemed to be all a little nuts. It didn't interest Naruto as much as he was interested about the fact that so many of them existed. Uchiha ended up self destructing. though. the sky blue eyes of Namikaze Minato. More like mutations. 60 . Though the eyes were no doubt useful. the Byakugan and finally the Rinnegan. sadly enough. Neither was Danzo. Sharingan wasn't exactly an Uchiha-only trait in his time. or the Sage of the Six Paths had had a third child. Naruto was glad the best he could do was Sage eyes with which he could only see a little further and his vision was little sharper than normally. With the advantages the eyes could give. Uchiha clan and the Senju Clan. though considering the fact that Nagato himself admitted being weaker than the Sage even at the peak of his power. but the whole main family and branch family thing was just evil. And Sharingan had two levels too. it was no wonder people wanted them so much and hallowed them as highly as they did. and everyone knew what his children had become. but nothing else. the family didn't exactly have the monopoly over the eyes. Byakugan would've been cool. and superior vision was only one of them. Hyuuga clan turned over half of its own family into slaves. the second… not so much. Naruto didn't know about Byakugan that much. Maybe Byakugan had as well. Of course. and who knew whatever mutations there were in between. that was unlikely. but he didn't consider them officially "different" sets of eyes. Rinnegan seemed to be only limited by its user while Sharingan could be by all appearances developed endlessly . And though the first Rinnegan user had been shining example to all Shinobi in the world. Then there were the Kyuubi's eyes. Still. there were the yellow Sage eyes. of four if the undeveloped forms of Sharingan were counted. Kakashi wasn't an Uchiha. The whole thing did make him wonder about how Nagato had inherited the Rinnegan. Or the Sage himself reborn. Why? What so good was there about having jutsu in your eyes? A lot. maybe a descendant of some member that had left. He had also been told that during one time he had slit pupils with blue irises and that during the fight with Pain his Kyuubi-eyes and Sage eyes had mixed to form a sort of cross. No.and Byakugan had only one tiny blind spot which was so small most people knew nothing about it. he had been on the bar with Uchiha . vivid red with slit pupils. There was only one person in the world who had had it before. First. but Sharingan at least had developed from Rinnegan. when he was completely fair. Being able to copy Ninjutsu of others was cheating and the whole spacedistortion thing that Mangekyo did went way past his comprehension. Madara had been often times too busy with the rest of the world.they'd probably know it even if they were half asleep. Nagato and Konan were all good and three against one match against Hanzo they might even manage. He had them. But that didn't mean that it was safe to leave him by himself. Nagato and Konan had prepared for it. giving him chance to plot and prepare. Naruto himself wasn't in the plans. didn't have that many concerns. he still had been affected by all this preparation. so many things had gone wrong and Nagato himself had gone so wrong in return.and it was only matter of time before he would come again. but now…now. What mattered was what he would do with them. and soon made it a habit of having a two clones in state of meditation at all times on top of having a clone training with Shiryoku on the matter. it had apparently been tripled since Naruto had joined them. but throw in army and some giant salamanders and it was a whole another thing. making so many strategies that gave it Naruto a headache. but he had managed to antagonise the entire planet. all in order to escape as fast as possible with minimal contact. Their hideout had before had four different escape routes .it had been a weak as far as Naruto's many Rasengan-based attacks went . And considering that Hanzo was known for summoning and none of them had summons at their disposal. of course. and Senjutsu was the best he had now. and most of the damage it did happened not in the point of contact. they had made three more. Nagato was sensitive and could be broken so easily. Hanzo. "I've seen a Shinobi village in state of alarm once. and that was it. "They 61 . But despite not having part in the evacuation as it was. The gang certainly hadn't lowered their guard since." Naruto mused to Yahiko once while they watched the youngest of the members go over the motions of stage one evacuation. And.in waiting. if things would follow the same lines as they had in Naruto's past and Nagato and Konan . Madara had been threatening. Yahiko. If the attack would come. No. but little past it.so poor in comparison to the Rinnegan.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN It didn't really matter how Nagato had gotten the eyes. the four of them would face Hanzo or whoever was attacking in order to give the others as much time as possible. Yahiko. Rasengan wasn't a gentle attack after all. maybe things could go a little differently. Because whilst everyone escaped. All the members of their group had been drilled in the plans. What use was there of such special pair of eyes when the ones in possession of them needed to be lead by the half blind? It would've been foolish to think that Hanzo would give up after the plan to kill Yahiko had failed. everyone would know what to do .he had gotten used to enemies which had so many enemies themselves that they weren't at his throat at every opportunity. On the outside it might make a bruise whilst on the inside it shredded everything. they would need something that could take out something bigger. But Hanzo was too tough a Shinobi to die to the attack . neither were the three leaders.and Yahiko too as he was alive this time around . They knew that the only reason the man hadn't chased them right back to the hideout was because Naruto had probably broken good handful of his ribs and probably done some damage on the inside as well. Naruto sighed. He needed to be watched for. Naruto himself had been distracted by his students and had almost forgotten it . he might turn alright. In the future. and should the alarm call. rubbing his hands over his own eyes . They had also devised evacuation plans. though busy leading the Hidden Rain. so even if Naruto had been one of the last two Jinchuuriki at the time. he would probably need all the advantage he would get. With Konan's soothing wisdom and Yahiko's ceaseless optimism to guide him.would gain control of the Village Hidden in Rain… he might even turn into the saviour he was meant to be. One of the two clones he had dispersed in the caves below. "We seem to be quite out numbered. Any suggestions?" "I could take out the people hiding in the lake with a Raiton based attack. "The gang we have here isn't all of us anyway. and had gotten adjusted to the idea that there simply was none. The rough circumstances had raised him quickly to meet the challenge of their hard situation. All the protective measures put in place in the hideout seemed overly complicated at times." "If we have to evacuate. as they stood outside the rock formation that formed a shield over the hide out entrance. But you make them look like punch of snails. We have more people living in the other hideouts . "Twenty eight people above surface including Hanzo and three summons." Yahiko answered." Yahiko answered while behind them Naruto pulled his fox mask on. "Probably by having his people look for us. "Naturally.can't be leaving them empty and unguarded after all. x The evacuation was in full swing by the time Naruto made his way up to the surface with the three leaders." Danzo and his people hadn't left yet. Hanzo and his people seemed to be used to it as well. the fish in the lake that arched almost around the hideout. he was already better than most leaders Naruto had ever encountered. all salamanders. the civilians and ninja cadets were all evacuated quickly and neatly.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN executed their emergency plan pretty swiftly. Also. it seemed. it seemed. but he wasn't particularly surprised by that." Yahiko murmured.we were going to move further south once the winter came anyway. even better. "We don't have that luxury. his senses spread until he could feel the people below. At age of nineteen. In explosion of awareness. "How did he find us?" Konan asked quietly. Yahiko-san." Yahiko murmured and frowned before glancing at the others. and shift to the Sage mode. "Arashi-san. though. even smarter. and the nature's energy surged at him. It took only instant to accommodate to it. two of which are large and one is small. Anyone of them might've noticed one of the members when they were out getting food or water or whatever. where will we go?" Naruto asked curiously." Naruto could only imagine what kind of Kage Yahiko could make. when Hanzo finally came knocking. and the people and summons Hanzo had with him. "This place isn't the only hideout we have ." Naruto nodded and lifted his hands to the dispelling seal. twenty of the people above surface are from Leaf and not Rain. could you check how many people are there?" "Right. Only thing left to do was to make sure he stayed alive until then. but Naruto had to admit that each and every one of them was as important as a sack full of gold and precious jutsu. Few more years and he'd be even greater. There are extra thirty people in the lake. It was pouring once more. He had yet to see a single sunny day in Rain." "Shinobi villages have more people to distract the attackers." Nagato offered 62 . Esama FOX IN THE RAIN quietly." Naruto grinned mirthlessly behind his mask.and that the lizard was quite old. "I'll be able to distract a few with my Suiton attacks. but we have something better. He absently twisted the umbrella in his hands and pulled his waterproof cloak a little tighter on. It was freezing. Now. "What a surprise! What are you doing here. "No thank you. "And if necessary. We're no match for Hanzo's speed there." "Alright. Keep that in mind. We might not have the element of surprise on our side. Konan?" Yahiko asked." Yahiko nodded." "I want to talk to the Fox Sage. How're yours doing. Most of those guys are here because they're ordered. I can't use Kage Bunshin as massively as I usually do. He was standing on top of a large salamander. but it might knock them unconscious. "The lake is so big it wouldn't kill them. we're here to protect our people. I would've put the tea on." Naruto answered while Nagato and Konan shifted aside a little to give him clear view of their opponent. Hanzo-san. following them. he still didn't particularly like it when it rained on him. "Then talk. narrowing his odd eyes. satisfied. And whatever you do. The usually white part of his eyes was completely black. "I should be able to take out at least handful out with my paper without harming them. though. Naruto. I won't be able to use it to distract them . so don't count on that. but Hanzo is a different thing. "You should've sent a word ahead. so they would be able to survive. that's not gonna happen. if you really had unravelled the secrets of Senjutsu. Only then Naruto noticed that the little salamander had been talking with the man ." Nagato and Konan agreed and the three of them walked forward." "Right. after pushing his umbrella open. What will we do about the summons?" "I can deal with those. Unlike most of the gang. "I don't think you called me out specifically to talk about my little attack. They should be using breathing apparatus. What is it called?" Naruto smiled." Naruto answered.and the Kage Bunshin I make I need to make attacks." Hanzo demanded. "In my Sage mode I'm strong enough to take out a summon and send them back to their place of origin without damaging them too much. by the way?" "Healed." "That's good." Hanzo answered. What do you want?" "I wanted to see for myself if you really were a Sage." Hanzo answered." Yahiko nodded. "They're expecting us. with a smaller one resting on his shoulders. let's go and see if we can talk them out of this. Hanzo-san?" Yahiko asked once they were at hearing distance. On the scale of one to ten. that works. "Not when you have all the reason to stick a kunai between my ribs." Konan agreed. because they get paid. his eyes were on the nine in the freaky-meter. 63 . I should be able to use my paper to strip some of our enemies of their gear and weapons. don't go near the lake." "Privately." the leader of Village Hidden in Rain said without acknowledging Yahiko's words. touching the lizard on his shoulder. "I'm not going anywhere. "That attack you used was quite powerful. to pierce through my armour like that. " "Yeah. Ever since her handicapping accident. Jiraiya-san can be like that. "It's not quite easy as that. According to what he had heard. meditation alone didn't cut it. could die and that it was right for that to happen at any time and at any way. It would always. "I would never teach Senjutsu to someone like you for the simple reason that no matter how you'd try. as it had been imperfect and quite toad-like. "You have to die to become a Sage. Third. imagining the scene in his head. For someone like Jiraiya. Jiraiya had never been quite comfortable with his Sage form. Person like Hanzo and pretty much ninety nine percent of all Shinobi could never manage it." In hindsight . always master them." Naruto laughed. Second. Naruto had found that it took a certain sort of mentality to manage it." "To die?" Hanzo looked startled. "The one who brings me the Fox Sage's head will get a hefty reward!" Leaving his umbrella behind. that they would never ever master nature's energy. What was it with Shinobi and immortality? "Not in the slightest. Naruto shot forward. that they were small and insignificant and in large scheme of things they were only a crumb of existence. loud and sudden. let's put that to the test. she had been scared of being weak and helpless and dying alone. The simple reason was that to manage Senjutsu. "Could you please leave? We have more important things to do around here than to talk about obscure branches of Shinobi arts.the one who as accepted his death and will face it with a smile. People like Hanzo. He held 64 . they couldn't fear change . Fourth. With that to hinder her." Naruto finally said after managing to control his amusement. fleeting and soon forgotten.or maybe foresight . that could be something of an embarrassment. that would be completely impossible. And the amount of paranoia the man had was a clear sign of how terrified he was of dying." "No. I don't think so.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I've only met one man like you before." Naruto nodded with amusement. the user had to accept few things." "Now that you have your answer. For someone like you. It was why he doubted Shiryoku would ever have a Sage form. you'd never be able to do it. to whom appearance was rather important. two Kage Bunshin at each side. that they would die. "Then a Sage is immortal?" Naruto snorted.Jiraiya had failed to achieve perfect Sage form because he had been terrified of turning into a toad. or that he'd do it for money that seemed so hilarious. Naruto on other hand willingly jumped into pond of frog oil. Nature's energy wasn't a force to be commanded. is it? Well then." Hanzo answered.he suddenly knew that his father would've made one hell of a Sage. "What about it?" "Join me. and he wasn't particularly forthcoming about the talent. You fear too much. she wouldn't even be able to achieve incomplete Sage form. Fox Sage. on other hand… Hanzo had tried to assassinate group leader striving for peace because he was scared of being overthrown. A Sage is the most mortal man in the world . Hanzo-san. It was a force to be accepted. but the fact that Hanzo thought he could learn Senjutsu. First. And most of all they needed to have respect. Kill them!" he called to his people. repeatedly. Being just still wasn't enough. I will pay you handsomely if you teach me to master Senjutsu. Lot of it. It wasn't just the notion that he'd just leave the gang. That alone made him utterly and completely ill-fitting." Yahiko cut in. "Most mortal man on earth. While learning it himself. I don't think you're willing to do that. sending a barrage of fiery dragons at Naruto. Reppuushou!" the long haired man yelled out while sending the wind at the dragons. unlike during their first encounter when Naruto had managed to take him by surprise. so aware of everything thanks to his Senjutsu. Wind attacks were. the two of them used water and lightning masterfully together. Both of them aimed their attention at him. Senpou Oodama Rasengan was in quite different league. It was a chaotic fight from the very start.but then. He was also a Wind Release adept. the Rasengan Naruto had used on him had been weak.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN out his hands towards them with chakra spewing out of his palms for them to mould. Behind him he could hear Yahiko yelling out a Water Release jutsu while Nagato's lightning attack was already making the lake beside them shudder with sparks. The rest. "Fuuton. water attacks cutting against Naruto's defences." Naruto hissed. Naruto himself. The wind continued past the ruined attack and Hanzo and Danzo quickly jumped away. The blades only managed to slow the attacks down. But Naruto wasn't only a Sage. however. but incredibly powerful none the less. the ease with which Naruto dealt with the two summons wasn't it . was alert and quite willing to pay back in kind. flying past him. It was only the nature's energy. and the summons had no chance against when they decided not to try and run from it. While Hanzo pushed at Naruto with Suiton jutsu after another. Arashi no Yaiba!" he called. better than those who had fallen. but he had power and enough will to use it. Like Nagato and Yahiko. huh?" Danzo murmured. they had cut the group into half. he gained in intelligence. and Danzo. adding his own skills to the mix. the seamless teamwork from the three gang leaders ruined it in an instant. It sent out a cluster of wind blades aimed at the dragons and trying to cut them to pieces. and suddenly the fire attack was coming at Naruto a whole lot faster. "Fuuton. Not in the same level as Pain or Madara. Nagato's lightning sparkled along Yahiko's water dragon and Konan's paper was shot forward at even higher speed by a wind jutsu from Nagato. shooting out his palm and curt apart the lightning encrusted water whip coming at him. but where Danzo lost in strength. They only missed by a hair's width before plummeting to the ground like fiery boulders. Within ten minutes. flashing through hand seals. with the other half either unconscious or unable to fight. "Fuuton. that made him able to keep up. who probably was feeling the sting of having Naruto sneak into he country among his people without his notice. and then Naruto had to run as they reached him. more or less useless against fire attacks . Whatever plans Hanzo had made. And among them there was Hanzo who.especially one powered by wind attacks. jumping back while running through hand seals.the man was incredibly strong. nor did he have anything to knock people out like Nagato's many lightning skills. He didn't have any jutsu for restraining like Konan who used her paper to wrap around people and make them unable to move. "Fuuton. He could easily see why Hanzo had been so widely respected and feared . his own version of normal blade of wind attack. pushing at his limits. 65 . Danzo's own Raiton attacks complimented them and made them even stronger. Kazekiri no jutsu!" he called. Danzo wasn't quite Hanzo's level. "Katon. and as Naruto reached first of Hanzo's two larger summons. What ever Hanzo had expected. Gouryuuka no Jutsu!" he called out. fought back with earnest and were harder to take down. he could hear the whirring of Konan's paper. easily worked around and through their team work. "Shit. while beside him Hanzo also completed an array of hand seals. Hurriedly. Miraculously enough." he said to them. Lekuu no Jutsu!" Naruto did as asked and when the watery projectiles of Yahiko's attack had been shot out. The wind that came from his lips froze his own skin as it rushed forward. "Almost over. freeze this too! Suiton. Though of course. its marks hidden under his mask. "I still have one clone on standby but after that it'll be it. Of Hanzo and Danzo's roughly sixty people eight were still standing by the time the fight ended. Hokufuu no jutsu!" he called and blew out the attack just when the water hit the ground and splashed all around. he was back in his fox-like Sage form. and headed for Danzo and Hanzo. freezing the rain on its way and then hitting the water of Nagato's attack. His Sage form had released. ripping off the burning cloak and jumper and throwing them into the ground." he nodded and hurriedly created a handful of clones when few of the more daring Leaf-Nin made a rush at them. and some had been frozen by Nagato and Naruto's water-wind combination. some others had been shocked by Yahiko and Nagato's water-lightning combination. The lake's surface was disturbed as several tentacle-like formations shot out. Naruto grinned grimly and performed hand seals hurriedly. unconscious. Nagato-san!" he called back to the Rinnegan user. Naruto felt a moment of disorientation and then weakness." "Right. The eight still standing were tired. Then the fight was on again. "Your back!" Naruto cursed. frowning as the lake beside them rippled and then the water began to rise in monstrous wave.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Arashi-san!" Nagato called somewhere near by. and easy preys for Naruto's icy winds or Nagato's lightning should they come close enough. Then he drew a deep breath. he jumped back to where the others were. The rest had been knocked unconscious or disoriented by other attacks. "The rest should be gone within five minutes. Yahiko had a cut on his upper arm and was limping slightly. The tentacles of water turned into tentacles of ice and what ever water had fallen to the ground was immediately frozen over. which was unsurprising. As the remaining enemy Shinobi hurried back to get away from the attack. Majority of them were floating in the lake. and let's continue this fight. he blasted another icy wind after them. Arashi-san!" He could hear Yahiko call. Nagato wasn't tired." Yahiko answered and took out fresh pair of kunai when they head Hanzo was preparing another attack "Dispel your clone. Naruto hadn't really been concentrating onto that but he still knew the answer. "Kai!" Nature's energy rushed to him again and with fleeting sense of peace." "Let's give them fifteen. "Fuuton. some had been trapped by Konan's paper jutsu. "Hey. "I could use water right about now. Cursing under his breath. he was a 66 . the gang's side was more or less out of breath too. even Danzo was catching his breath. He was very thankful of the weapons the gang had supplied him with as the clones fought to hold most of the attackers off. Konan was barely able to keep controlling her paper attacks due to the lack of chakra." Naruto nodded. "Great. and wet. not a single person was dead or even badly wounded. Nagato was quick to answer. he followed the three others to the rock formations to get away from the tidal wave and brought his hands together." "The evacuation?" Yahiko asked. Hanzo seemed to be the only one still going strong. "I'm out of the Sage mode. we'll lose eventually. In few seconds the wall was ready. will you keep the borders shut even then and have our country starve?" Naruto frowned as they argued. "Like your little walls would stop them for long. Yahiko. "…I can try. "Distraction! Come on. Yahiko's and Hanzo's argument was thankfully drowning out any other noise." "We need a diversion. While their enemy jumped back to avoid being hit." "You tried to kill us . If was odd point to realise that he had no idea what had caused the Second Great Shinobi war in the first place. it turns pretty hard?" Naruto asked in low tone. "We need to get out of here. "But I'm almost out of chakra. He brought his hands together and clapped slowly at them." Nagato answered encouragingly. "Konan-san." Hanzo said as they all caught their breaths. Konan's attach rushed past him. we need to run!" Konan yelled in answer and together they fled once more. "I haven't had a fight like this since I fought the Three Legendary Ninja! It's a pity that you are so set on your ways of foolish ideology. Konan-san. "It's no wonder you have found such a following. Even Yahiko didn't notice what they were doing before in long stripes of paper. 67 ." Nagato agreed. do you think you could make enough to create a paper wall between us and them?" He thought back to the paper tree Konan had made to shelter Nagato in the future. or when it would happen. We need to retreat. "We can't keep going on like this. we can't even rebuild after what the war's done to us!" "You would have us invite our neighbours to have another fight on our lands? I think not!" Hanzo snorted "The only reason this ceasefire has lasted so long is because they cannot easily get at each other anymore! The borders are keeping the peace!" Yahiko snorted." "You can do it. I would not mind having Shinobi like you at my disposal. "Nagato-san. It would've helped them along a whole lot if he had some knowledge about the upcoming events. soaking it through. long.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Rinnegan user after all. He didn't know what had ended it for that matter. He almost groaned out loud. suddenly wishing that he had paid some attention in the history lessons back at the Academy. "The war will eventually end. without looking at them. Naruto jumped a little forward to avoid hitting Yahiko and used the last of his strength on the North Wind attack." she answered a bit dubiously. did you know that when you freeze moist paper. another to keep it from replenishing by closing the borders for no good reason! Because of you. however. Naruto. "What the…" Yahiko blinked. directing where the wind blew carefully and only freezing the paper where it had already formed to the wall and then following the paper construction where it was completed. "You're part of the reason why this country is in this state of ruin anyway! It's one thing to have country ravaged by war.that doesn't exactly make us willing to side with you!" Yahiko spat while straightening his back." Konan said to Nagato somewhere behind Naruto. was feeling the lack of the Kyuubi's chakra loud and clear .and he had run out of nature's energy as well. tall and surprisingly thick considering it was made of frozen paper. Hanzo is too strong." he said. Nagato flashed through the seals and sent a shower of water after the paper. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN As he grabbed his discarded umbrella. they had done damn well. But then again. for a battle where they had had a fifteen to one disadvantage. 68 . Naruto thought he could hear Hanzo clapping behind them once more. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 8 – UNKNOWN WORLD Naruto stared at the surface of one of the many dining tables in Yahiko's gang's second hideout. Unlike the first one, this one was an old house hidden among cliffs and not a cave. It wasn't as big as the previous hideout and it was a stretch to accommodate all twenty four members plus the seven that had already been in the hideout, but it was in a way more comfortable than the caves. It was warmer if nothing else - and after four hours of running through cold rain in nothing but a mesh shirt over his upper body, he had healthy appreciation for warmth. He felt oddly useless. They had come out of the fight all right, all the gang members had escaped safely and they had managed to hold on during the fight without killing anyone. It was one hell of an achievement, but he felt weak. Sure, he had managed to disperse Hanzo's summons, but he had a feeling that was more due to luck and benefit of surprise, than skill. Normally mere Ninjutsu wasn't good enough to deal with a summon - usually you needed another summon. If Hanzo would come at them again, the man wouldn't let Naruto use Oodama Rasengan on the salamanders again. And Naruto knew more than well enough that the only reason they had been able to manage so well in the first place because Hanzo had wanted to talk before fighting. If the man had just attacked without a word, they would've been in trouble. Or if the man had gone after the evacuees… So many things could've gone wrong. Usually he didn't bother with hindsight, but this time he couldn't avoid it. With something so valuable on the line, the obvious flaw in his arsenal was weighing on him heavily. He needed ensure Nagato's innocence and that happened by making sure Yahiko and Konan remained alive - and then there were his students and the other gang members and their goals to consider - and he couldn't do any of those things when he was so goddamned weak. "Arashi-sensei," he heard Yoaruki calling him as the eight year old boy limped towards him, leaning heavily to his crutches. Shiryoku was with him, holding onto his sleeve for guidance. She was holding something under her arm. "We found this in the attic. We thought we could make you a cloak out of this - since your cloak and jacket burned… what do you think?" Naruto blinked with surprise while blind Shiryoku shyly presented the cloth. "For me? Really?" He asked, reaching to examine the cloth. It was the same water proof fabric most of clothes around there were made off - except, unlike most of their gang's cloaks, this fabric was bright orange. "This is brilliant, you two, but you don't need to do this for me. There are plenty of extra cloaks around, I can just wear one of those…" "We want to," Shiryoku answered, bowing her head and awkwardly brushing her pale hair down to hide the burn scars around her eyes. "You've taught so much to us already, and you fought so that we could evacuate safely…" she trailed away, and had she been able to see, she would've been staring at her feet. Naruto smiled sadly. Yoaruki and Shiryoku had been the slowest of the evacuees - he and the three leaders had caught up with them and the two other gang members who had been carrying them after only five minutes of running. Naruto had taken his students from the others, having a clone carry Shiryoku and carrying older Yoaruki himself. Once in the next 69 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN hideout, he had gone his way also to make sure that the two had places to rest and that they got to change their wet clothes. "Well, if you feel like you must," he said, placing one hand over Yoaruki's hand which was grasping the crutch and reaching out to take Shiryoku's hand with his other. "I'd be happy to wear a cloak made by you two. But you can sew, right?" The two started slightly and blushed. "We were going to ask someone to help us," Yoaruki said embarrassedly. Naruto laughed. "How about I help you?" he answered. "I know a think or two about sewing." But even that distraction didn't take his mind completely off the problem. He felt the absence of summons stronger than ever, and knew that the more serious things would get, the harder it would become to circumvent around the lack. And it wasn't only Hanzo he had to worry about, or Danzo. There was Madara too, one day, and there was Itachi as well, whom he would need to take care of one day one way or another. Those two were both rather Hidden Leaf-oriented issues, and if he would ever wish to go to leaf and survive to tell the tale, he'd need more than Fuuton and Senjutsu. He needed a summoning contract. While he and Yoaruki, with Shiryoku's eager though rather useless help, used the forms of the usual cloaks used by the gang to cut the orange fabric, he kept wondering about summoning. How did people get summoning contracts in the first place? Jiraiya had taken the journey to Myoubokuzan by foot and had eventually bee gifted by the contract by the toads, that much he knew. He didn't know how Tsunade had gotten her contract, or how Orochimaru had gotten his. Kakashi, as far as he knew, had raised his summon dogs himself, but… Naruto didn't have the time for that. The cloak came out surprisingly good despite his distraction. It had high collar and wide sleeves like all the rest of the gang's cloaks, and a hem which reached midway of Naruto's calves and which would take some adjusting to. Since the length made it impossible to have a thigh-holster for kunai, he ended up getting one of the utility belts used by the others, which was wide and covered most of his belly. "This is cloak is pretty warm," he mused while adjusting the heavy belt. He admired the result in a mirror and grinned. "Thanks, you two." Shiryoku and Yoaruki grinned happily and Naruto smiled to them while wondering if the three gang leaders would know anything about summoning contracts. x "As far as I've heard, most of the great animal races live in the uncharted territories past the Earth and Wind countries." It wasn't none of the three gang leaders that answered Naruto's question, but one of the other gang members, Haruka, who had been an official Rain ninja before joining Yahiko's gang. "That's where Hanzo travelled when he was younger and came back with the salamander contract, or so I've heard. I think the third Hokage also got his famed monkey summon contract from somewhere in there." From Hidden Leaf, it would take a month to get there. But Naruto was much closer, so it 70 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN shouldn't take as long as that. Maybe three weeks, maybe even less. In his mind, Naruto tried to calculate of whether or not it would be worth it to try. Three weeks in one direction, that meant six weeks on the journey. And however long it would take to find an animal race willing to align with him… "Thinking of trying to get a contract?" Yahiko asked. "As far as I see, most people who take that journey end up never coming back." "Yeah, probably," Naruto murmured, thinking some of the summons he had seen. The snakes for one probably wouldn't much like to see humans in their territories. "But it would be useful. There are lot of summoners in Shinobi world, people like Hanzo… and sometimes only way to fight against summoner is by summons." "I can't say it wouldn't be useful to have a summoner in our group," Yahiko murmured while sitting down beside him. "Not only for defensive reasons but when we move or have evacuate it would be useful to have a large animal to carry those who can't go that fast. I think more people would join us too if they'd hear we have summons…" Naruto nodded. The main reason why Yahiko's group, though famous for their goals and views, was still so small was because people knew. Against the Village Hidden in Rain and all its forces, they were weak. And in a land ravaged by so many wars, people knew better than to take the side of the weaker party. "You wouldn't mind if I went?" he asked, turning to the orange haired ninja. "You don't need me here?" It didn't feel right even thinking about going. He needed to stay and protect Nagato and his friends. But… he would be able to do it better if he had summons. Yahiko laughed. "We managed just well before you came along, I think we can manage from here on too," he said and grinned. "Way to go thinking the world revolves around you, Arashi-san. Just because Hanzo was so interested about you, doesn't mean that you're the king of the hill now." Naruto smiled faintly. "No, that's you," he answered. It was difficult, knowing how frail the situation truly was. Yahiko didn't know the dangers that surrounded them, and how little at this point it would take to tip Nagato from non-violent peace into… well, very violent peace. And Naruto couldn't say anything without sounding like a prophet or insane man, and he wasn't particularly fond of the idea of becoming either. "You promise you'll all be here when I come back?" Naruto asked quietly. "All of you?" Yahiko gave him a look and then smiled sadly. "I don't know what happened to your village, Arashi-san. But trust me, we're not going anywhere." He patted Naruto's shoulders awkwardly and grinned. "We're all gonna be right here to see your kick-ass new summons when you come back." Naruto searched the other's eyes for a moment before sighing and nodding. It was as good as it would get, he supposed. "Thanks," he said. Nagato and Konan were supportive of him going as well, promising to take care of each other just as long as he'd come back eventually. Naruto had a feeling they all thought he was a survivor of some sort of horrible holocaust and that he had some sort of trauma about losing people, but as long as they promised, he didn't mind them drawing their own conclusions of his actions. The more they assumed about his past, the less he had to lie about, really. 71 "You can barely use normal chakra at this point. and later that night he packed his bag." "Yeah. the last of the two countries standing between Lands of Wind and Earth. The reason for that was simple difficulty of terrain ." They pouted and didn't seem happy about it. He kissed Shiryoku's forehead and ruffled Yoaruki's hair. each of them trying their best to reach the skies and beat each other in height. before standing up. Right?" Naruto asked and smiled. the entire country was nothing but mountains. I don't think you will accidentally draw on nature's energy." he turned to Yoaruki who was frowning at the floor. What if I do that dangerous stuff. It'll be too dangerous. "They're making better prosthetics for me. "I'm sure you will be alright. making her pout.like its name said. x It was much easier to get out of the Country of Rain than it had been to get into it. If his retreat was seen by the guards.and hopefully. clutching onto his hand tightly. Of course. it wasn't exactly effortless to get out. "This is something I have to do for the safety of the gang." Naruto said. Both of you. and nothing else. but they nodded. I'll be back. got his umbrella and after fastening his fox mask on. "They're gonna be lighter and will fit me better and I'll be able to walk better." Yoaruki said. holding onto Naruto's sleeve for balance. "I'm sure you'll be fine. crouching down to the level of his two students.they even asked to come with him so that he could keep on teaching them. The villages and towns in the land were few and far apart and it took long while to travel between them along the rocky mountain trails 72 . ruffling Yoaruki's short black hair and squeezing Shiryoku's hand." "I don't want you to go. the country had no reason to keep its people from running away . it had all the reason to encourage it. reaching to brush her hair from her burned face. the gates weren't wide open and he wasn't bowed out. sensei. they did nothing about it and easy as that he was out of Land of Rain and in the Land of Mountains. towards a new summoning contract. They didn't try to stop him again. You can teach me how to fight!" "I'm sorry. Unlike Land of Rain. So be strong for me. But then again. "So keep on practicing what I've taught you so far and I'll teach you guys something new when I get back. "I know you're strong." he promised. "Aside from Konan-san. what if I can't stop? No one here will be able help me!" Naruto chuckled. Land of Mountains lived with ease and had never served as the battle ground for the greater nations. I can't take you two with me. he headed out of the hideout and then to west . and… and you said it's dangerous." she whispered. But he still managed to get out after mere hour of figuring out the watch pattern and then jumping over the wall when he found the perfect gap. but what about we know all that stuff through and through. you're only one who has bothered helping me…" "I'm sure they will help you from now on.if anything." Shiryoku asked.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Yoaruki and Shiryoku weren't as accepting about him going . And you don't even need help anymore. "I… I already can sense nature's energy around me a little. now." he said. you can do everything by yourself. Just do what you've been doing so far and feel. and he spent every single daylight second travelling. he might've taken his time in the mountains. With Jiraiya. When he had been running to save Gaara or to catch Akatsuki spy or try and find Sasuke. after all . If Hidden Rock would want to attack Hidden Sand through the Land of Mountains. But he didn't have the time for that. and the villages and towns he encountered grew rarer and rarer. they hadn't really been going anywhere. actually. He didn't know where to go and he also didn't have the time to just go around hoping he'd run into something useful. the magnificence of mountains was something mysterious. they had taken their time and never even once had they actually ran on their way. While he was heading further to west. they gained in sheer beauty. It had been a shock for the toads when Jiraiya had found the place in his youth. Aside from when Jiraiya wanted to see some of his contacts of the Hidden Leaf's spy network. thankful of the new cloak which saved him from the cool mountain breeze.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN and the rare. and he wasn't about to clear the distance in two weeks unless he spend every possible moment on foot. The land of mountains was longer from east to west than it was from south to north. but stayed in one village or town of encampment for weeks at a time. Even when they had been looking for Tsunade. it was always done with extreme haste and not exactly enjoyable. plan was hard to come up with. that was. Myoubokuzan for one was under no less than dozen illusions and in such difficult place that even without the illusions it was hard to get. It had been like that during the three years of travelling with the man as well . That. Following the signs he walked. there had never really been hurry anywhere. flimsy extension bridges erected here and there. climbed and balanced around the difficult paths. and the fact that Naruto had no idea what he was looking for.and they rarely wanted visitors as far as Naruto knew. he wondered how he would continue once he was out of the Mountain Country.the gigantism of Myoubokuzan wasn't 73 . It helped that the people of the difficult country had marked the paths and erected signs pretty much everywhere to guide lost travellers towards nearest villages. but what they lost there. something to help him along… but with so many variables. aimlessly and without a plan. They had thought it impossible for humans to find the place before then. Thankfully Naruto had had visited mountainsides before and knew just enough to manage travelling in the difficult terrain. The territories beyond the country's borders were mostly uncharted . He needed a plan. It was so different from the way of travelling he was used to.either because there were beasts there that you needed to be a high level Shinobi to beat.but then. or they were under so many illusions that charting them was just impossible. They were difficult. He didn't really consider the running from a mission or to one travelling. It had been rather idle form of travelling . They had been simply travelling.and sometimes they hadn't been travelling at all. If the situation had been any other. He didn't even stay in the towns or villages for longer than to re-supply and maybe have a bowl of ramen if he encountered a right restaurant. and even then continuing little further in the light of his lantern. For someone who had grown in a forest. would make things difficult. The terrain of uncharted territories was known for being difficult and slightly illogical . they'd spend two weeks on foot in the mountainside and probably get lost somewhere along the way. but that was it. Each morning the rising sunlight painted the mountains one by one with golden rays and each evening the sky in the distance would turn orange or red and one by one the snowy peaks turned pink before fading out like god's lanterns in the distance. The animals of uncharted territories were known for their ability with Shinobi arts. It was more of matter of them finding him while he was resting in a crook of 74 . there were the beasts. And the passing mists and clouds and the fact that sunlight tended to be oddly distorted here and there made it hard to even finding a direction not to mention about navigating. Those were where the intelligent animals lived. Naruto could happily say that he hadn't seen so many wonderful things.he could send out his clones to scout ahead and back and sides to find the best routes after all. not the other way around. He could survive and he knew that by sheer stubbornness alone he would find his way out eventually . x After a week in the uncharted territories. But he was neither a Genjutsu master nor particularly adept with them. had clearly intended no one to ever find their way out. Not that Naruto was worried about that. Or some of the animal races Pain had commanded. he had sheltered from rain under a vividly coloured hare bell and watched a formation of enormous birds heading towards south. though. Senjutsu only told him when he was in a Genjutsu or in that annoying line between Genjutsu barriers which was still clear but just distorted enough for nothing to make sense. and decided to become momentarily a vegetarian. The problem wasn't that he wanted to get out. He could also not so happily say that he was completely lost.though that was probably because he was seeing them through layers and layers of illusions. if it even had been designed. but that was it. Or… or just anyone able and willing to talk and help him find something useful. It was hard to prepare for that no matter how he tried. anyone to help him. He had tried fishing at one stream only to find that the fish all could eat him. the illusions. And so Naruto reached the uncharted territories without any knowledge of where to go or how to go about looking for the animal races. running away from the upcoming winter. sure. On top of that. That had been rather difficult decision to keep. But animal chakra blended into the nature around them so well that even for perfect Sage like Naruto that was difficult to figure out. Even stars weren't the same in the uncharted territories . hoping to find someone. the intentionally difficult and confusing paths… the place was made to drive travellers to their deaths. Maybe a small toad or a slug or even a monkey like those Third Hokage had been known for using. though. And even then he couldn't tell the difference between intelligent and non-intelligent animals and instead of finding anyone helpful.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN rare in those parts. He wasn't quite expecting the one he did eventually find. he ended up finding gigantic worms and bees and few flies big enough to suck all his blood out in one try. Who ever had designed the place. Senjutsu also wasn't helping him find anyone . a butterfly big enough to take out his head. he just wandered around. when he had almost ended up being eaten by Venus fly trap as big as his entire apartment building. but that he wanted to get out of them areas between illusions and into the Genjutsu protected areas. truthfully he didn't find anyone. So. He had seen a caterpillar bigger than his arm.animals could be found by the feel of their chakra. He had fought with a rat as big as him over a fruit tree and then ran when he had realised that the rat had been only a kid and the mommy was a lot bigger. That was just impolite. the voice making the tree leaves rustle loudly in objection. it was a dragon." Even he knew enough these things to never ever say that he wanted to have a summon as a tool . "A summoning contract?" the dragon rumbled thoughtfully. The dragon's breath smelled of cinders and burning stone. "I-I'm not.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN enormous tree. his mind catching the words and throwing them around for a moment before they finally sunk in. It probably didn't need them. embarrassing hitch. Shinobi like the Legendary Three Ninja and like Hanzo were all both respected and feared for many things. Just the knowledge that they had the power of summon something like that made majority of Shinobi run away from the very mention of their names on a battlefield. undefeated. long tendril like whiskers idly whipping about Naruto as if to try and touch him. Distantly Naruto noticed that the dragon had no accessories or clothes like some of the toads did. but very few had gigantic ones like the ones the Three Legendary Ninja were known off." he stuttered awkwardly. Many Shinobi had summons." the dragon rumbled. "A summon to fight for you. The dragon shifted and the earth groaned under its weight while it sat back to its haunches. "To help me protect my precious ones. but their summons were major part of it. feeling like this was the one point in his life where he had to be very. he would've even at the risk of death. long enough to wrap around the tree's housesized trunk and crush it into splinters.especially not to an intelligent animal. not one nation would dare to go against… The thought trailed away. "Would you like a dragon summon?" the animal before him spoke the words slowly and deliberately like trying to taste the sounds. were staring down on him intently. The dragon was big enough to eat Manda or Gamabunta for breakfast! No one would dare to go against a summon like the dragon before him. Naruto blinked. the sound nearly throwing Naruto off balance. along with the sudden. If he had been able to stop his heart from making a racked. standing victorious over the entire world. His reflexes saved him before his instincts kicked in and he froze completely like prey under the stare of a large predator." Naruto answered. acknowledged… and feared. He was woken by a hot breath pushing over him so hard that he nearly fell. I c-came here willingly… I'm looking f-for a race w-who would . respected. very truthful. "Are you lost?" Naruto's breathing returned to its usual rhythm with a loud.of him. And he was under the stare of a large predator. If it was like that with normal summons. regaining strength after entire day of travelling. not one Shinobi… and if there were more than one. He only dared to look at the creature watching him from the corner of his eye and what he saw made him grow even further still and stop breathing. as big as a medium sized toad. Would he like a dragon summon? Hell yes he would like a dragon summon. terrifying glimpse of a mental image his thoughts had conjured up . no doubt. Its eyes. But then. Even one summon like the creature before him would mean that he'd probably come out undefeated from any fight he would use a summon in. A very large predator. There was a dragon standing beside the tree. like snakes. is it? To be your tool?" "To fight with me.could become m-my summons. "Human. toads and slugs… dragons would be feared ten times as much 75 . kept by him alone… perfect harmony with no circles or spirals of hatred. using such a powerful summon to bring forth age of true peace. "No. yes. say yes. He ignored it and looked away. little more accepting than most. He had an answer. not ever. finding odd. He'd be acknowledged by the entire world. yes. he'd continue onward because of course everyone should have peace… "But I… I don't think I'd have that restraint. There was that old saying about power. "Well?" the dragon asked a little impatiently. no tragedies… Naruto squeezed his eyes shut. "Wouldn't a greater power help you protect your precious ones better?" Naruto didn't answer at first.it sounded rather like an inward roar. unable to voice the bitter truth. "No. Answer which suddenly wished with all his heart he could deny. There would be no wars and no conflicts because he'd keep the peace with his powerful summons. yes." the dragon hummed softly . little more understanding. And once he'd have done that. A lot could be accomplished by that kind of fear. yes. obviously aware that Naruto had lied. Not a no. "Restraint?" It nodded its enormous head once as if the question had held some sort of answer within itself. He knew he wasn't the smartest person. "I wouldn't trust myself with that sort of power. The creature seemed oddly pleased. not about himself. He would end the Second Great Shinobi War and prevent the Third ever from happening. He wasn't most understanding. "No? Why not?" "I…" Naruto swallowed." he said." "But wouldn't a greater power prove to be more useful than lesser one?" the dragon asked thoughtfully. not now. that was saying something. staring at Naruto with eyes so enormous he could've fit inside them ten times over. Answer to a question he had never heard asked.and Haku had made Mist a place he'd definitely want to change. he wasn't most accepting. Naruto knew he wasn't a perfect person. sitting on the tree branch beside him. "Not always. He'd stop Akatsuki before it even became widely known." he said. no one would ever belittle him or ignore him or mock him… no one would ever go against him. no one would dare to go against his will. "I couldn't trust myself with that. He'd bring peace of Rain and then to Leaf… but he wouldn't be able to stop there. And for someone who had housed evil inside himself. to somewhere which would help him think. And there'd be peace.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Naruto frowned. "Would you like a dragon summon?" Yes he did. "Maybe someone could use a power like a dragon summon for… protection and nothing else…" Maybe he could at first too." "Hmm. some part of him hissed at him. Then the dragon shifted closer. He had thought himself beyond some things like greed and evil. "Oh?" The dragon asked." he simply said. which he had never wanted answered. more to himself than to the dragon. twisted comfort in hiding the face he once hid inside him. reaching for the mask like child for a security blanket and then pulling it to his face. "But if you would decline a 76 . bury somewhere in inside him and forget forever. But he had always thought himself a little kinder. A lot could be done with that kind of respect." he repeated. Gaara had made Sand close to his heart . yes. It was painful to be proven wrong by yourself. Proven true by himself in ugly glimpse inward. Him. and there would be no more killing. proven true by Orochimaru and Madara and so many more powerful Shinobi. His red fox mask. He could see it plain as day. " he whispered. But as much as the disgust towards himself made him turn away. Circle the hill three times and then go back over the brook. Naruto realised he had been given key to a Genjutsu . it was the thought of Nagato that kept him from turning around and simply heading back home. and only concentrating selfishly onto himself. Not with the knowledge that he too would. if given the chance. self-loathing haze for Naruto and he was almost surprised when he found himself at the brook the dragon had told him about. Not with the amount of greed and corruption he had found inside himself. Only as the dragon turned into nothing but thin line in the distance. grassy hill. nodding ahead. insignificant and if he hadn't known it was somehow special. Konan and Yahiko were waiting. then?" Naruto. Oh." the dragon murmured with satisfaction and turned to look away so suddenly. The gang was waiting. For a moment he considered taking it off . shuddered slightly. unable to even remember Nagato and the war and the gang and his vow to protect them for a moment. "Continue along this path." "Indeed. not anymore. He had promised he'd come back with summon contract under his belt.a way inside an illusion. It was.if this was it and he could possibly 77 . clear thing that merrily ran from north to south. Even the tingle along his senses that spoke of the presence of Genjutsu didn't interest him .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN dragon summon. Naruto touched the mask which he had not taken off since the encounter with the dragon. "One that would teach me to be a better person. though. Nagato. feeling small and insignificant and utterly defeated in battle he hadn't known he had been fighting. With a sigh. It was small.he had ran through. the dragon stretched and then jumped into the air. He didn't even feel like he deserved to be a Sage anymore. For a while Naruto just stared at the hill across the brook. he would've just jumped over it and continued on further to west. what sort of contract would you prefer. he'd do all for the right reasons. "In a day. The problem was. x The day's worth of travelling went through in a sort of guilty. And he didn't break his promises. slithering away across the sky like snake in grass rather than several-thousand-ton beast it really was. over and along so many Genjutsu barriers so far with no hope of doing anything about them. But Pain had done everything for the right reasons too. He had promised to come back and bring with him new hope for their cause. like a line drawn between forest of odd gigantism and normal looking. he didn't feel like he deserved it. you will encounter a brook with a hill on the other side. "One that would teach me restraint. Shiryoku and Yoaruki too. It was small. that the absence of the powerful stare's pressure made Naruto feel oddly out of balance. uncomprehending for a moment. Without another word. try and control the entire world. The dragon looked ahead steadily." Naruto frowned." the dragon said. that he didn't find the sensation in anyway remarkable. Because it was a feel of Genjutsu he knew how to enter now. that was exactly what it looked like.Madara and Orochimaru took the cake . Curious. he already was. making the hair in the back of his head stand up. It could be anything." The air around him rippled with giggling. so not slugs or snakes.with enormous temple with a Torii gates and everything standing at the top layer. it would be only right to show them his face. Myoubokuzan was a mountain and the houses there had been thrown around in a bit hap hazard manner. He had seen so many different sort of summons in his time that as far as he knew. Naruto looked around and then even tried his neck to make sure there was nothing there . Pulling a weapon at possible summon wasn't a good idea at all.about ten of them . nor was there a brook. He didn't dare to turn look at the hill behind him at first. These buildings were much older and much grander design.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN encounter a race that might one day ally him as his summons. he realised. so he picked a direction randomly and headed along the hill clockwise. This one was neatly organised. if not more. "It looks a little like a rice field. and Naruto could feel a breath. It was… unnerving. The village had stairs. But there was no one behind him. "I'm sorry for intruding like this. had it? "Um…" he glanced around again.it was gigantic. the house doors were bigger than the Hokage Tower. but I was hoping to meet someone in charge. He had seen some creepy things at his time . For one. Actually. more shocked about not having felt the person before they had approached than he was about being approached. and he turned. There were doors which had handles. in odd way. if there were dragons… He circled the field once. and instead kept his hands loosely at his side. There were even walls surrounding each terrace. But. Hell. 78 . The dragon hadn't led him into a ghost town. wishing to see what sort of creatures lived there." Naruto muttered. The style of buildings was different as well . Naruto stepped to a wide bridge that crossed over the river and approached the enormous village. idly wondering what kind of creatures lived beneath this illusion. the village was arranged into odd layers . Immediately he could feel the world shift around him. But there were major differences. and his Senjutsu enhanced senses told him that the Genjutsu was shifting around him. Confused.but he hadn't seen ghosts before. though. but then the curiosity got the best of him. But there was no one. There was no field there anymore. "You took your sweet time." a voice suddenly spoke behind him.like a creature of Fukasaku's size who could ride his back without him noticing them. there was no real limit of what kind they were. The fox mask was just as true as the human face beneath. Instead he was at the outer shore of a wide river that flowed at the root of a village climbing up the side of a hill much bigger than the one he had walked around. "Oh great. twice and finally for the third time before jumping back over the brook like instructed. He couldn't see anyone yet. He left the mask where it was and jumped over the brook.Myoubokuzan buildings were vaguely familiar to Naruto and few were in design one could see in Hidden Leaf. He fought the instinct to reach for a kunai. letting him in. Also. so it had to be something with hands as well… or something hand-like. didn't you?" Naruto whirled around. The village reminded him of Myoubokuzan at first . "Well then. so it had to be something with legs. The dragon hadn't told him which way he had to circle the field." he mumbled to himself. Okay.to the huge shrine there. The visions continued like that. but instead the entire terrace was full of pale blue will-owisps. he stepped forward and through the gate and to the final terrace. It reminded him a little of the Great Toad Sage's house. creepiest of all. rubbing his now aching neck awkwardly and fighting every instinct that told him to get the hell out of there. "A fake fox weirdo!" "Weirdo. Naruto. Like the floating giant heads of the seventh terrace or the ogres of the fifth terrace… He hurried onward undisturbed until he was at the Torii gates. before speaking again. Let's take it off!" "No. "No taking anything off. full of see-through shadows that seemed to be going about their daily shopping. the one that had spoken first. not that he could see. spoke out again." someone said somewhere near by . deep voice called from inside the shrine. "Thanks. "Now. making him shiver. let's not tease the newcomer. The voice laughed along with the giggling voices of the children. no. "That's where you will meet him. was completely empty and looked like it had been abandoned for years and years." Naruto mumbled." "Oh. After the amount of ghosts he had encountered. "Let's go and meet the head honcho then. until the second to last terrace. then. Naruto looked around in hopes of finding the source of the voice. My mask. a little startled. It was a gift to me. "Humans aren't foxes. This shrine was much grander. "You can gape the shrine later on. head up there -" Naruto almost yelped as something wrenched at his head. Cautious. There he encountered no bodiless voices. No touch!" More giggling before an elder voice. seeing that some of them were missing heads and most had no legs. In the inside it looked pretty much like normal shrine ." Hurriedly. 79 . Shivering. where there was a shopping street.aside from the size. Odd decorations and symbolic statues and weirdly carved pillars and all. no. It was the ninth. didn't stop to take a closer look." He could've jumped to the other terrace but instead used the enormous stairs. boy. now. although the size was about right." it said. Then." Naruto grabbed hold of his mask. turning him to face the wall of the next terrace of the village. "Come in. but there was no one there. he hurried to the next terrace.a girl's voice. Frowning slightly. It." a boy's voice agreed. shall we? Human-pretending-tobe-a-fox. and the shrine was the only thing there." a rough. he looked up to what he had at first thought were oddly carved pillars but were instead paws.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I think he's pretending to be a fox. staring up at the enormous table. Then his head was pulled back so that he looked up to the upper terraces . A gigantic white fox was staring down on him. Naruto headed forward and into the shrine that made him feel painfully small. floating around aimlessly and making the air around them turn cold. again directly at the back of Naruto's head. the emptiness set him on the edge and made him almost certain that any moment now he'd be attacked by some thing. Not at first. but not much. But he's been handling it all pretty well. shaking away the part of his brain which felt a prey's fear for a predator. though. head strong as anything. "The dragon let us know of your arrival." the voice answered with mild amusement. he could see tiny front and back legs. if you wouldn't mind. No such things as ghost existed after all." the gigantic fox said. brittle bones!" Naruto let go with surprise more than because of the request." the fox answered. "Also." it said. damn it.and more horrific because of it. this guy. So many claws and teeth… Even a dragon had been easier to handle because it had been so fantastic and dreamlike and maybe not even real. He was a ninja. you know.even snakes were somewhat easy to handle because they had no claws to rip you apart with .the first voice he had heard in the village. "He's a jerky one." the creature said to him. he had fought against demons. looking down on Naruto who suddenly had a vague awareness of what Minato must've felt. I'll give him that. could you not hold me so tightly? I'm frail in my old age. But as he pulled his hand.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 9 – TRICKSTERS AND DEMONS "We have been waiting for you. Kuda? What do you think?" A voice laughed behind Naruto . The things he had seen were all impossible things. trying to be nonchalant about being held like that but Naruto could feel the tension in the snake-like body he was holding. this guy. Hell. Everything he had seen had been Genjutsu? He thought about it for a moment before sighing. was an animal mundane enough to be much more real . facing the Kyuubi. 80 . A hairy snake with a fox's head and ears. the one with uncanny ability to speak directly behind him. far from each other. The first thought that came to him was that maybe he had caught a tail. "You came with him. Brittle bones." Something shifted over Naruto's head and he reached out to grab it. and the thing he held. He sighed. He had gotten so adjusted to being surrounded by Genjutsu left and right that he hadn't even noticed the presence.but a fox was a different thing. "Didn't realise he was under a Genjutsu and still kept going. he saw it wasn't a tail. "Been all stiff since coming in. forward. "Fox snake?" "A pipe fox. "What the heck?" he asked softly. Fox. "You were the one talking behind me all the time!" he said. Genjutsu? He glanced towards the shrine entrance and frowned behind his mask. "A greeting for a new comer. rather like a snake actually. feeling a little embarrassed with himself. he had fought with worse. blinking slowly. Of course it had been a Genjutsu. "What the hell was that about?" The pipe fox shuddered its body before settling on Naruto's hand. And a Sage. He had seen worse than a giant fox. for someone with no talent in Genjutsu. "He has guts." Naruto blinked." it answered calmly before looking up to the enormous white fox who was still staring down on them. "Y-you have?" Naruto asked. Looking at the long thin body that writhed in his hold. It was a small creature. It was one thing seeing a giant toad or a slug . Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "No talent in Genjutsu, hm?" the white fox murmured, sitting to it's haunches and staring at Naruto - or at the pipe fox, it was hard to say which. "What is your name?" "Kazama Arashi," Naruto answered. "No, it isn't," the white fox answered, chuckling low and rumbling, something between growl and purr. "Where do you come from?" Naruto hesitated, confused about how he had gotten caught of a lie so quickly and simply. "Land of Rain," he answered slowly. "No, you don't," the enormous fox said again, nodding. "Why did you come here?" "To find help." That was the truth, he was sure of it. "No, you didn't." The pipe fox laughed at the white fox's almost pleased tone of voice, and looked up at a slightly puzzled Naruto. "Three straight faced lies in a row. On top of that, you come here wearing a mask - a fox mask nonetheless - with an inability of performing or detecting Genjutsu, and walk through a village of apparitions without much of a hesitation," the little fox shuddered with chuckles. "How amusing." Naruto frowned. When put like that, his actions so far had been more than a little insulting and he had lied at possible summons too. And yet… they seemed pleased? If he had done the same to the toads, they would've already whacked him left and right and kicked him out, no doubt. "Why is it amusing?" he asked finally, a little confusedly. "And for the record, I can detect Genjutsu. It's just that around here there are so many of them that I sort of got adjusted to…" It seemed a flimsy excuse as best. Neither of the foxes answered. The great white fox merely hummed with satisfaction. "He'll do, for now," it said and turned to head away. "Well, you heard the man. You'll do, for now," the pipe fox said, wrapping loosely around Naruto's wrist with tiny forelegs grabbing hold of the Shinobi's thumb. "How about we go down to the village and have something to eat while I'll explain how things work around here? There's a guy at the sixth level who makes the best udon in the world… what say you?" Naruto stared at the little fox with mixed incredulity and confusion and after moment asked, "Do they serve sake? I could use some right now." The little snake-like fox grinned. "That's the spirit," it said and even more confused Naruto headed out of the shrine, wondering what the hell he had gotten himself into. x "Don't take it so seriously," Kuda the pipe fox said as Naruto frowned at the foxes around them, most of them happily laughing at him and crowing about how they had gotten him with their Henge trick. "You're actually one of the few humans who didn't just turn tail and run, you know. Most never make it to the fifth terrace." The old snakelike fox laughed, his 81 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN long body wrapped around a bowl of udon. "And the ones that make it up to the shrine usually run away when they see Inari-sama." "I'm so proud of myself," Naruto muttered rather flatly, throwing a last look of distain top a near by group of foxes who were barely able to contain their mirth enough to enjoy their noodles. Shaking his head, he turned his attention to his own bowl before asking, "Inarisama?" "The head honcho. You know. Big white fox, in the shrine, hard to miss," the pipe fox grinned. "He runs the things around here. Not much on the sense of humour compartment, you know, but he's kept this place going for pretty long. Takes good care of our rowdy bunch." The blonde Shinobi sighed and pushed his mask up to rest against his hair. "Uhhuh," he murmured and gathered some noodles to his chopsticks. Then he glanced at the fox, who was so small that he had to use both front legs to just lift a single thick noodle from the udon bowl. "I don't get it," he said. "You know I lied to you. Why didn't you kick me out?" "We're foxes, kid. Lying is what we do, most of the time," Kuda answered and made a motion which might've been his version of shrugging shoulders. It was hard to tell when his shoulders were so far from his head. "And you lied about the things that don't matter to us and we can tell the truths about the things that do. Your name, your face, your place of birth, your reason of being, why would any of that mean anything to us? That's the past you know. We're creatures of the present. Right now all we really care to know about you is whether you're fit to keep around." "And… I am?" Naruto asked a bit confusedly. "You suck at Genjutsu which is bit annoying since Genjutsu is sort of our thing. As you found out earlier," Kuda grinned. "But you got guts and that's good. Can't stand wimps, you know. And you didn't blow a fuse when you found out you were being tricked, which is good. Can't really stand a guy who can't take a joke either. I gotta admit, though, I think the reason why Inari-sama didn't have us kick you out is because the dragon sent you here. That's never happened before, you know. The mask might have something to do with it too, though. It's a very nice mask, by the way." "Thanks," Naruto murmured awkwardly. "What's the deal with the dragon, though?" "Who knows. He's been living around here for longer than the Field's been up and running," Kuda shrugged his shoulders again. "Comes and goes how he pleases, does all these sort of tests for travellers. Asks them if they want power and stuff. I don't know how you answered and I don't much care, but know that you're lucky. If he hadn't liked your answer, he probably would've killed you." Naruto blinked. "It was a test?" he asked. "Yeah," the fox snorted, glancing up to him. "You didn't really think there's a thing like dragon summon, right?" Naruto flushed. "It seemed pretty believable at the time," he murmured defensively. "Though it might've been I was scared enough to piss myself," he added embarrassedly, looking away. It did make sense, in odd way. Okay, it was pretty weird for dragon to test the character of travellers, but really, he had encountered weirder things. Suddenly he had a feeling that the result of answering yes might've been pretty bad for him. "Did he say why he sent me here?" 82 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN he asked after moment of embarrassed silence. "How should I know? I wasn't there - the dragon only talked with Inari-sama and took off," Kuda answered, bowing his head to snatch another noodle from the bowl. "It's never happened though. I heard he has sent people to the ravens and to the salamanders and to the snakes and stuff before, but this is the first time he sent someone to us. Usually people somehow end up finding this place on their own." Naruto frowned, thinking about the Genjutsu key. "I can't imagine why, it wasn't exactly simple the way I got here," he murmured. "It's not the only way in, just the closest to you I guess," Kuda said. "We have pretty many entrances here, though, and most of them aren't too secure. We don't actually have much reason for security - no one really wants to attack us or anything, you know. And those that do, we can chase out with the use of mere Henge most of the time." "Is everything here smoke and mirrors?" the Shinobi sighed. Genjutsu this, Henge that, trick this, prank that. Not that he didn't appreciate a good prank - he really did - but Genjutsu really wasn't his forte. Henge was, sure, but Genjutsu… not so much. "Pretty much," Kuda answered. "Dunno what you were expecting. We're not foxes for nothing, you know." "I don't know," Naruto sighed and ate few mouthfuls of the noodles while trying to figure out the answer. "I only came here in hopes of finding a summoning contract," he finally admitted. "I… wasn't really gonna be too picky about what kind of contract I would get just as long as I could get one. And I guess I did hope for one with some big summons, you know… like Inari-sama sized." "Hmm…" the pipe fox thought about it. "Well, of course there is Inari-sama himself, but as no one's ever really had our summoning contract… we have one, of course, just no human has ever gotten as far with us as to try and sign it you know. So I don't know if he'd be willing to let himself summoned. I imagine that would take lot of chakra too, he is a big guy," the fox ate a noodle and burped softly. "Well, we have few foxes about as big as he is. There's Gizensha, but he's a weird guy, hard to tell what he's thinking half of the time. Koukatsu might actually like being summoned, he likes fighting that one. Zurui too maybe, though he's not that big. Hmm… some of the old foxes might be willing to help too, but I suggest asking first or they might just bite your head off if you try." That made sense. Naruto had never really talked to half of the toads he had summoned before summoning them, but if had been alright back then because he had been Jiraiya's student and Minato's kid - they had been inclined to forgive some lapses in etiquette. Here, on other hand… it was probably better to show some courtesy before asking for help. "Um… do you think I can sign the contract?" Naruto asked. "I don't see anything wrong with the idea," Kuda shrugged his slim shoulders again. "But it might be best to ask Inari-sama's permission first. He might get grouchy if we do stuff without his consent." "Right, of course," Naruto nodded and spend another moment concentrating onto eating. "So," he said once he had finished his bowl and a the fox who owned the shop carried him another one. Naruto eyed the udon maker for a moment, somewhat bemused by the fact that the fox walked on hind legs and wore clothes and apron, before turning his eyes back to Kuda. "You were going to explain this place to me?" 83 Naruto could however easily tell why Kuda thought he was a weird guy. Naruto was too busy wondering where the fox had gotten a sheep big enough for his choice of accessory to even begin to try and figure out what he meant with what he said. Most of the time trying just ended up confusing him." "I have enemies to fight and people to protect. After being showered in paint and water and one time being tripped into a barrel of rice which had sent the owner of the said barrel attacking him with a broom.and would be next to no use at all on a battlefield. He was however made the local prank target and he could barely walk through a street without being attacked by Genjutsu or being tripped into a bucket of paint or something.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN x Unlike the toads who had had something to show him or teach him. Gizensha wore enormous sheep skin. glancing at the pipe fox coiling on his shoulder "And so I have.since most of my enemies tend to have contracts of their own and it's kind of hard to fight a salamander or snake of your size by myself. and there was nothing else to really see anyway. Well. He suddenly had odd feeling of what Iruka must've felt. Well. one of the biggest foxes of the village. The foxes seemed to prefer that he wore it." the fox murmured approvingly. Gizensha was as big as the biggest summons by the Legendary Three Ninja . Naruto didn't actually learn much about it. teaching him." 84 . but that didn't make them useful to him. peering down on Naruto through the eyeholes of his sheep-skull head gear. Most of them knew nothing of fighting and they were a goddamn menace . I was curious about why. "Kuda said you wanted to see me?" he added. "Thanks?" he merely offered and belatedly thought the fox probably meant his mask. he was hundred percent certain that he didn't even want to have a contract with the foxes. Arashi. this is the human. sitting to his haunches and idly wagging the end of his bushy tail. so he only undressed it to eat. he learned that the village was full of foxes of varying sizes and colours and that apparently all of them knew Genjutsu and most knew little else in fact . By the end of the first day. he was ready to stick a Rasengan into the next fox who wanted to prank him. Kuda took him to meet Gizensha. "He has the right attitude.an enormous red fox almost as big as Inari himself. However. he even had a sort of head gear made from sheep skull with horns still attached. "So. in the second day after a night spend in surprisingly nice inn. the foxes had no interest in offering him anything. which he was once more wearing." the fox agreed. was it?" Gizensha rumbled. they could throw Genjutsu around better than any Genjutsu master Naruto had ever encountered. and Naruto changed his idea about the uselessness of the foxes." Naruto shrugged. but that didn't much help with dealing with the overly enthusiastic pranksters in the village. "Having a summoning contract would help me . He had no idea how to work along side with a Genjutsu user. The motion created air currents strong enough to make the trees near by rustle.but not much else. "Word has it you want to have our summoning contract. On his back. Though Kuda showed him around in the village. Though it could've been that that was it for the village. which was called Oinarioka. "Not much of a Genjutsu user." "Senjutsu?" Kuda asked. Taijutsu…" "Kinjutsu and Senjutsu. and then to Zurui. aside from being pranked every now and then by a bored. "There are a few though they aren't too common." "How did you learn Senjutsu?" Kuda asked curiously. so you should know something. Arashi? You're a Shinobi. but he wasn't about to say that. the Rasenshuriken. he might still be able to learn. That was how it started. though. Not when there was a danger of it backfiring. Ninjutsu. the others wanted to talk with him and measure him themselves." "I don't think they do. a red fox with quick temper. Soon after he had spoken with the three large foxes. "And there are those who know Ninjutsu aside from Genjutsu too. and then told them about his own creation. And Zurui was more interested about the Kinjutsu and Ninjutsu Naruto knew. He had learned it from the toads too. So the fact that this guy isn't a Genjutsu user shouldn't be that much of a hindrance. "What can you do.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Hard to tell if we'd be much use for this guy. "This is very interesting. huh?" Gizensha murmured. and instead wanted to hear all about Naruto's battles and enemies and had the Shinobi explain the whole concept of the Second Great Shinobi War. I can throw it with Senjutsu so it wouldn't harm me as much. asking about where he came from and what he had done. right." he murmured. explaining the oddities of humanity to the foxes who had only rarely 85 . but I wouldn't call myself a master. I think by using Senjutsu I could still use Rasenshuriken too. Koukatsu wasn't that curious about Naruto's Kinjutsu or Senjutsu abilities though. fun seeking fox. "I didn't know there were foxes who didn't do Genjutsu. "Kinjutsu?" Gizensha asked curiously before Naruto could answer. I can't do it to save my life and I've survived well enough regardless. Most of his signature attacks were all forbidden techniques." Kuda piped up." Naruto answered. a black fox who was apparently the greatest Ninjutsu expert in the Oinarioka just after Inari." Kuda answered. "I didn't know humans knew it. Naruto found himself playing the part of a story teller." Naruto snorted. Others were curious. startled. "Kinjutsu. "I also know some Fuuton jutsu. I only know one other guy who knows it and he learned it from the toads. "Like what?" "Mostly attacks forbidden because most people either maim or kill themselves trying them. slithering up from Naruto's shoulders and settling down on top of his head. Some didn't think much of him and few of them even said out right that they plain refused ever being summoned by him. which was something probably only he alone could perform. amusingly enough. "I have large chakra reserves and I… used to heal so quickly that I can use stuff like this without much worry." Naruto shrugged and explained Kage Bunshin and its high chakra demand. and had Naruto explain some of his Fuuton attacks to him even though the black fox himself was more Katon oriented." Gizensha murmured thoughtfully. I need to talk with Koukatsu and Zurui about this…" Naruto later talked also with Koukatsu." "Pshs." Naruto blinked surprise." Gizensha snorted. "Genjutsu isn't everything. Arashi that is. Besides. So. And every now and then memory of Nagato. Naruto saw that he was looking ahead . so it wasn't that surprising that he couldn't quite understand the great beast. but they can't all be like that . Kuda wasn't with him that time." Inari interrupted and stopped. Confused. That's why more of us animal races have contracts. that nothing had happened. the leader of Oinarioka continued. they've gained more strength in the last ten years than they have in the last hundred.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN seen people like him. "You don't want to." 86 . "People have been coming here more often in the last century than they did before. The toads have grown greatly since they got their summoner and though snakes have always been vicious and powerful.beside there are lot of you foxes who do more than Genjutsu…" "It's not because of our orientation. stretching lazily before turning around to head away. the illusionary rush of black cats that threatened to overwhelm him was rather easy to ignore. but you're letting me sign the contract?" he finally asked a little hesitatingly. Unification of the human clans into countries probably has something to do with it knowledge passes faster between your people now and more people are aware of us. "Why the hell not? I get that a Genjutsu oriented summon might be a difficult companion for a Shinobi who doesn't get Genjutsu.to a great wall with enormous painting in it. For some of the younger foxes he was the first human they had ever seen. but as Naruto had already gotten used to the village it wasn't exactly difficult to climb up the stairs and towards the shrine. The first days went by like that and though Naruto got to know lot of foxes and figured that maybe having Genjutsu oriented summon wasn't that bad idea. experience and wisdom. By letting themselves be summoned." the great white fox said. In Naruto's fourth day in Oinarioka. It's only the second time he has talked with the great fox. Same goes with some other creatures here. but he doesn't. There was only one fox in existence with multiple tails after all." Naruto waited for a moment for him to continue. Sometimes he even felt that he should've never left at all. Naruto followed him and as he fought to keep up with the fox's fast striding. My race has not. That is why I designed the one for my own race." the great fox shrugged. "I have decided to let you sign our summoning contract. waiting for him. However… even if a Shinobi strayed into our village." "Didn't want you?" Naruto asked with mild shock. He was hit by one of the. they either could not handle us or they did not want us." Inari stood up. it's because of kinship. "Against my better judgement. he was called by Inari. but in comparison to some of the ones he had so far experienced. they have grown in power. Glancing up to him with surprise. Yahiko and Konan surfaced and he felt a pressing haste to return. "Why?" "Because having a contract with a summoner gives creatures as ourselves power and wealth of knowledge. "You called me. he didn't really feel like he was getting anywhere with it. to go back and make sure they were alright. "Foxes have never had a summoner before. even. Inari-sama?" Naruto asked as he stepped inside the shrine and found the enormous white fox comfortably lying there. It was about a great red fox and Naruto only needed a split of a second to recognise it. He even managed to side step most of the traps and dispel two Genjutsu sent his way on the way. "Our kinship with the nine tailed fox makes humans wary of us. but I know what it does to have one. " "I'm already known as the Fox Sage. Another circle of misery.. humans often seem wary of us because of our similarities with the nine tailed beast. He however found his fourth attempt at summoning foxes to be the most fruitful one. they preferred not to be allied with us." "That's stupid. and who no doubt had used the fox against many people. painful irony." he murmured. "And you're wiser than I thought. x Naruto signed the contract in his blood and chakra and became the first Shinobi to ever have signed the contract of the foxes. Still. "Yes. Even if that person had grown adjusted to us. who seemed to find it to be reason for some pride and immediately bragged about it to Koukatsu and Zurui.. it didn't take long for him to figure how much chakra to apply to summon the specific foxes. "Most people with little knowledge about the tailed demons think that they were normal animals once. it has been always declined because of this reason. "But the Kyuubi isn't a fox. alone. Madara who had been known for being able to manipulate the Kyuubi." he said confusedly. Thanks to being a summoner previously. really. the only freely living creature the Kyuubi was related to was Naruto himself. really. "Humans can be illogical. They think that the Kyuubi came from my clan. "The Kyuubi's not even an animal. "You know much about them. He just looks like one. The first fox he ended up summoning was Gizensha." And. That we are related. He would've understood if the foxes were avoided in the future when the Kyuubi had the history of attacking Hidden Leaf. But now? It made no sense at first. but then he remembered Madara." Naruto snorted. Just the latest Naruto had heard off. "I see you are not wary of being known as summoner or foxes. this one within himself. He sighed and rubbed his neck. in twisted way. But the fact remains. Attack against Hidden Leaf hadn't been the only time he had taken human lives. The few times I have felt inclined to offer our summoning contract to a human. "The only creatures he is related are the other tailed beasts. But not all know that. Having you at my side would only make sense." Inari agreed and looked down to him. That. The Kyuubi was an old creature. one of the foxes who walked on two legs." Naruto muttered. wasn't the reason why he was so happy. They did not want to become known as the summoner of foxes…" Naruto frowned." Inari murmured." The white fox gave him a surprised look before nodding." he said. And all that was nothing compared to being the Jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi himself.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Naruto blinked and then frowned. It all tied together with wonderful. He managed to summon Yatai. It was because he also managed to summon Yatai's food cart 87 . "Yes. it didn't make much sense for people to be wary of a summon race as powerful as the foxes just because they looked similar as one of the tailed beasts. But… it didn't make much sense for people to hate Jinchuuriki for the demons they held either. And even before that the Kyuubi was known for being a malicious force of nature. He didn't get it. Of course. He didn't know how strong the white fox. And Naruto was a Shinobi who above all listened to the needs of his stomach. but thank you." "If necessary. 88 ." the white fox nodded his large head." Naruto sighed while climbing to the sheepskin on Gizensha's back. and then glanced at him. I really do.hell. He made ready to leave not much after that. but it took me three weeks to get here. "I have to return to Rain. as he was fine with nothing but the sheep skin on his back. Arashi. If he suspected that Naruto had precious experience." Naruto shrugged. Gizensha was ready to leave less than that. I kind of don't want to waste that much time again. They're waiting for me.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN along with the fox. I've never been this good at dispelling Genjutsu . he didn't say anything about it. "I was hoping one of the foxes here would be willing to give me a ride. I can use Senjutsu to get more chakra." Naruto chuckled and looked up to the fox." "I'm sure Gizensha at least would be willing to accompany you. Thank you. He hadn't gained any possessions during his stay in Oinarioka. "I appreciate that. But summoning Yatai anywhere meant instant bowl of warm. "You will be leaving soon?" It sounded more like order than a question. Not that I mind walking. I really appreciate that you let me have the contract with foxes. freshly cooked udon. "You will be able to summon myself. as some of the younger foxes had grown fond of teasing Naruto and their goodbyeGenjutsu took almost hour to break out of. "But the chakra requirement will be far larger than for any other fox." "I will." He turned to face the great fox fully and bowed formally." the fox nodded in answer. "I adore you foxes." Naruto said. if needed. standing up with a stretch. "But can't you pick on someone of your own skill level? It's not that I mind the training I get . if this contract leads where I hope it will. for whatever reason.but jeez!" The great fox laughed loudly and not much after that they left Oinarioka behind them. "He just likes my mask. Even for your reserves. "Take care on your journey." "And you have mine. But I will only summon you if I really. Summoning Gizensha on a battlefield might've been useful as hell. really need to. so packing took only few minutes. it might be a little too much. "I haven't said it yet. Saying goodbyes took a little longer. The white fox had been watching the entire process and seemed pleased that Naruto had picked up it so fast. He has grown a fondness for you. "You have my gratitude." the white fox said." Naruto said and bowed again." Inari said to him after Naruto had summoned ten foxes and figured the contract out. but he had a feeling that summoning him to any fight under Kage-level would be bit of an over kill. Inari-sama. the energy returns to the soil. "You haven't wondered why the plants here are bigger?" he asked. And he had been pretty young back then. Naruto wondered if Jiraiya had been there once. Them. "It's that they're small where you come from. the two loud idiots. He imagined young Jiraiya. Thinking of Jiraiya brought forth a odd brand of nostalgia. So. It was really no wonder that most people who came to these territories never came out of them. The oceans there might still be strong in nature's energy. 89 . and the process repeats. It was interesting though. "What is it that makes you animals grow so big in here?" Naruto asked when they stopped to rest for the night." the great fox in lamb's skin shrugged. and leaning to the stalk of the odd gigantic plant. "The place where you humans live has been torn open and burned to the ground so many times that the nature there is weak for the lack of better word. very small. or as intelligent as you guys are. and grow bigger because of it. Naruto would've loved to say that it had been gutsy to come there.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 10 – END OF PEACE As he and Gizensha travelled over the uncharted territories. much faster and swifter than Naruto could've ever hoped to be alone. "The newborn fox kits are no bigger here than they are in my land. For a while they were followed by a gigantic hawk and when Gizensha said that he'd need to take a long way because they were coming too close to the bear territories. how they had both fallen to their slots. he realised how stupid he had been." Naruto chuckled and shook his head. hopelessly lost in the gigantic woods and stumbling over the enormous tree roots and running away from various gigantic beasts that wanted to eat him. If he had known. and before that he had travelled in the uncharted territories for a long while no doubt. it's not that things here are big. "It's because the very soil here is saturated with nature's energy. Eating the food produced by the uncharted territories had probably given him a growth spurt or few. really. On Gizensha's back. Foxes there never grow as big. that he had been brave. "I've seen all sorts of animals back in the elemental countries and they're nothing like animals are here. And when they die. Naruto felt very. and not much after that Gizensha plunged right through a web made by a spider as big as a house." The fox grinned at the Shinobi. wondering if humans too would grow to become giants if they lived in the uncharted lands and ate the chakra saturated food that land produced. The Toad Sage had lived with the toads for months." He thought about it for a moment and then snorted." "It's because the uncharted lands are abundant in nature's energy. nodding at the enormous leaf Naruto was sitting on. It… actually might explain why Jiraiya was so goddamned tall. Lucky bastard. he would've been a little more cautious than he had been." Gizensha yawned with a stretch and settled down." he said. Plants get more energy from it the ground. "Even you all start out small. but really he had been merely ignorant. but the ground there isn't. travelling back after claiming a summoning contract. he could see all the creatures that had no doubt been watching him on his way. A murder of enormous crows scattered away at Gizensha's presence. and laughed in belated sympathy. Naruto had prided himself for being fast traveller even. Maybe he could create something. Eventually." the fox in sheep's skin said with mock modesty. and then the sheer unrestrained pleasure of the success of creating Rasenshuriken… it had been enough for him not to even notice his severely maimed hand at the time! That just from managing to upgrade someone else's attack. In magnificent leaps Gizensha jumped from mountain to another. Naruto certainly didn't mind. he dreamed of chakra blades and swords made of wind and how with a swipe of his hand he could give or take air away from someone. Not yet. Nagato wouldn't be secure until Hanzo was defeated and Yahiko the undisputed leader of Hidden Rain . And another one would follow it." Gizensha said thoughtfully. master of Kinjutsu. the shorter the distance seemed. But maybe eventually. you're big enough to just jump over it. they came to the lower mountains that signalled that they were getting closer to the border. when he slept. The mere idea of creating something own his own. He was a fool. On the other side you can return to Oinarioka and I will continue alone on foot ." "Or you could summon a fox with some Genjutsu capabilities. but at this point it doesn't really matter if they do notice us. so the smaller the mountains got. running across valleys and over the rivers in between them.I should be alright by myself. the closer they were. and that way I will be able to travel inconspicuously. Valleys that had taken him hours and gorges he had had to use all his tricks to go over were all passing by in blur of motion and the further along they got. The trip. Still. Naruto the Fox Sage. "Well. something completely unheard of… He closed his eyes and sighed. master of Fuuinjutsu. 90 . not quite a master." Naruto snorted. and raced further towards east in much faster pace than even most of the other big summons could have managed. which had taken Naruto three weeks. x The border of the Land of Mountains came and was left behind swiftly. "Well.and that would not happen with the end of the Second War.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN bumbling their way from one mess to another. Not that fox sweated anyway. Well. Once the Second War would be over and the Land of Rain a little more secure. It was better not to dream of castles in the sky before the matters closer to earth were dealt with. The thrill of managing to make a true Rasengan. though it all made him feel a little slow in comparison. "That might catch the attention of the guards. Having a fox to compare himself to was certainly teaching him some humility. There was a war going on. "How will we deal with that?" Gizensha asked curiously as Naruto informed him of the upcoming barrier. Jiraiya the Toad Sage. The Land of Rain started exactly on the line where the mountain range of Land of Mountains ended. he could spend some time in research and experimentation. a mess much more vicious than a war between nations. foxes are fast creatures. That would take a civil war. was about to be crossed in a mere week if even that and Gizensha had barely broken a sweat. " Gizensha said. stop!" he called. "Thank you for the ride. He sighed slightly. it wouldn't hide my arrival. I have time to learn to be cunning and sly later. 91 . Naruto could only distantly hear the cried and yells of the guardsmen at the wall. and as Naruto pressed himself tighter against the thick sheepskin." Naruto chuckled. "Me or someone else. she could throw one over the barrier top let us jump over it without anyone noticing." "Alright. Later that day they finally reached the barrier. "Hanzou has the entire country wrapped in seals that note when unauthorised people cross the barriers." he promised. "If you say so. With a shake of his head. knocking the forehead of his mask a little irritably. I think. try summoning Koukatsu if you need someone to fight. letting myself be known might serve the gang's cause…" Rumours of Yahiko having a summoner at his side certainly would do the gang some good. it was lost at the distance." he said. Really. It had been nice in the mountains and in the uncharted territories . "I'm still young. all that time spent in useless meditation… Gizensha overcame all that in a single fluid leap." he added as the fox finished his stretching. Gods know. "It wouldn't be able to fool the seal barrier. turning to face the summon. Let me down. All the effort Naruto had spent on conquering the wall before. and then charged forward. Don't hesitate to call me if you need something else." Gizensha let out a bark of laughter. "Not fitting for our clan to have such a bold and blatant summoner. Naruto jumped down to the ground. but if they came after them or tried to send their own summons at them. We're getting so dusty at the old rice field that we certainly can use a jump outside every now and then. To someone unfamiliar with the land. Toads had nothing on how insignificant foxes could make their summoner feel. And at this point. Naruto couldn't even see the wall anymore. Gizensha conquered and left the wall behind within few seconds and after few more." When the fox slowed down. The blonde sighed." Naruto considered it for a moment and then shook his head. "This is far enough. But you really ought to try and think more like a fox. "Gizensha. Even if we did throw a Genjutsu over the wall." Gizensha answered with a stretch. Naruto knew that it was already raining.he had been able to actually see the sky. "I can handle it from here. sound which made Naruto always shiver. He glanced around and then up to the sky." he said." Gizensha nodded his enormous. and then vanished with a poof of smoke.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Hissori is good at making field Genjutsu. "I will keep that in mind. "Tell hi to the others for me. crossed over the bare border in one leap and then jumped up and over the high wall with all the ease of the enormous beast he really was. Let's just go with the obvious approach this time. In his usual speed. the great fox rushed forward without a pause. "Will do. We can be all sneaky the next time. he pulled out an umbrella from his back pack and pushed it open. sheep-skull adorned head. it would've looked like it was about to rain. Actually. lifting the umbrella to his shoulder. he has energy to spare. Take care." Naruto laughed and patted the enormous fox's back. Didn't seem like that would happen in a while though. folding his arms." Apparently Hanzo had found and roughened up this hideout as well during his absence." the member sighed. except tell him we're on the way with the repairs." "It's only proper ninja way of fighting. now feeling a little more anxious to get to the main gang." Naruto sighed. but I hear lot of people in the village got really sick. safe from two members who were fixing the rooftop. They hadn't succeeded right? "Some hot shot medic-nin caught it in time and countered it before anyone died. "Sand was poisoning Leaf's water supply.because gods help him if Yahiko. and towards the hideout of Yahiko's gang. apparently. "The ceasefire ended two weeks ago. It wasn't long since they evacuated and this place is a bit harder to get to so I doubt Hanzo has any chance of finding them. dead. "Nasty pieces of work. "They're fine." Naruto nodded. but the lower levels should be suitable enough if they're needed." the members who had lingered behind to fix the hideout said. As much as I would wish it. It'll take a bit more than that to take out our heads. Leaf's been at their throats for it about two weeks now. Naruto hurriedly asked if everyone was alright and that if anything had happened to the leaders . those Sand Ninja.tried to put poison into one of the water filtration centres according to the rumours. They only had to say one thing for Naruto to realise what had happened." the other member said." "Tried to?" Naruto asked hopefully. "Using all and every advantage available. Shinobi aren't exactly the most honourable fighters around. shaking his head. running his hand through his hair. It would've poisoned the whole village." "Nothing." "Yeah. Is there any word you want to send to Yahiko-san or anything like that? I can carry it with me to him. "They evacuated." "You telling me. Besides. The hideout was almost empty when he got there." 92 . "I'll tell them. while one of them wrote directions for Naruto to get to the third hideout. Three Kage Bunshin appeared to his side and with silent hand motions he sent them to different directions." "Oh?" Naruto asked with little trepidation while checking the directions and then hiding the paper in his kunai pouch." the other snorted. "I should be on my way already. It was darn lucky Yahiko's clone caught the sight of him soon enough to start an evacuation. or Konan were in trouble or. It'll take a bit longer to fix the upper floor from the water damage." Naruto nodded. After spending moment in confused panic and self loathing. or so we heard .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Naruto waited until the chakra smoke dissipated.we've already managed to stop most leaks. "This is where they should be. Hanzo's too busy with the other nations to bother with us. before lifting his hands into a seal. before he himself headed deeper into the country. doing something like that during ceasefire. and Nagato was left to pick up the pieces. We should have this place fit for living in few more weeks . worse yet. "Hanzo sneaked up here like a goddamn lizard and almost blew the place up. So. there had to be people wanting the lives of other people. Having some writing supplies would come in handy too.though the fox did ask for payment. staying one step ahead of Hanzo. The borders of the Fire Country for one had stayed pretty much the same since the founding times . it wasn't like the gang wasn't already worrying about the money issues themselves and really.the Three Legendary Ninja and the White Fang at least got their reputations during the war." he murmured mirthlessly. Leaving a summoning scroll for himself behind every time he left would ensure that if they needed his help. pulling the umbrella shut as it didn't help him much while he was running. not one great nation had personally taken the land from another. if Rock was smart about it.and now that he had a summoning contract.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN While he ran towards the third hideout. but he knew how to do storage seals . Now he had a goddamned war pressing down on him. The bounties these days wouldn't be as huge as the ones in the future . though. There had been altogether three great wars . would go against everything the gang believes in…" Well. He could fix that by summoning Yatai often .but there should be a few around. but for other things as well. and probably few others too . he wondered about the gang hideouts. That would be one of the first things he would need to do. It was really not much fun how his priorities immediately shifted once he returned to Rain. they would have a way of immediately getting it. the second an abandoned house. He sighed. actually. Considering the amount of heroes the Second Great Shinobi War created in leaf .medicine in general would be useful too. "Maybe I should go the way of Kakuzu and become a bounty hunter. it would wait until Sand and Leaf would tire each other out. Though.it was somewhat safe to bet on Konoha in the war. and then it would join the fight. "That. 93 . already drenched in the rain despite trying to protect himself with the umbrella.in his time between the larger nations. But they also needed obscure and hard-to-get things like prosthetics . Naruto had no idea who would win though. Staying alive for one. The first one had been a cave. not when someone actually won. and the continuation of the war. It had been almost enjoyable to ignore all this stuff in the Oinarioka. they had more pressing worries to think about. clothes and supplies. Not fun at all. He wouldn't be able to stand the nervousness of leaving those he ought to be protecting much longer. Hopefully not. running his hand through his wet hair and shifting the mask so that it was securely in place. The gang needed money. And not just to repair things. it wasn't too much and he could always pay the fox back later. even if it hadn't been for long. or if anyone would. Shinobi wars as far as he could tell ended when one side decided that the war was either getting nowhere or they were losing it. not just for writing but to teach those of the gang who didn't know how to write and to make seals. or they might not yet even be born . they couldn't buy any supplies or even tools for it and had to do it all by hand and by using whatever they already had. If Sand and Leaf were fighting. Naruto remembered the malnourished state of his students and frowned. it was only matter of time before Rock would join the melee and then Rain would become a battle field once more. and although they had shifter the borders just a little. he would be able to make a reverse-summoning scroll for himself. He didn't know much about seals.except for the few smaller nations it had consumed in the First Great Shinobi War… Naruto sighed. when it came time to repair places like the second hideout. With the war going on. once they would have money. It was plain obvious that the gang didn't have much as far as money came and whatever money they did have they quickly spend on more important things like food. probably.and the ones with bounties might not yet have them. It's been a little rough to get by since the war started again. hadn't things been so bad already." the 94 . So far they're fighting in the other border countries and hadn't yet came here. "I see you've taken lessons from Hanzo in security. "Come on. "Has the war's continuation affected Rain badly?" he asked then a little worriedly. There was something about a village over there being evacuated because the Sand put something to their wells. Naruro had never been as happy as he was then that he was a Fuuton user. Konan-san?" "Both are fine and well. With Hanzo keeping the borders shut. Yahiko and Konan were in a small room." "Understandable.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN And he really should've studied more history at school. "How can you get in and out of this place when the only opening is so hard to get to?" "It's not the only opening. the entrance was booby trapped and hidden beneath Genjutsu. There wasn't much he could say to that. "Sorry I'm not exactly excited. it wasn't easy to actually get in. I bet the others will want to hear how your trip went. The reputation is the only thing that might make us succeed." Nagato answered. but this cave was whole lot harder to get to. "I can hear it with them I guess. "… that's at least the latest rumour. rubbing his neck and shaking his head. looking the red haired Shinobi up and down to make sure he was okay and right state of mind. Naruto could see that they had turned the map into a strategic board. only to be captured by two gang members who then held him at knife-point until Nagato arrived to verify that he was who he claimed to be. it wasn't easy to find the entrance to the caves and once he did." Naruto sighed. "Not as badly as it would've." Nagato said after using Rinnegan to him and letting the guards return back to their stations. looking over charts and listening to a report of one of the gang members who didn't stay in the hideouts all the time but instead travelled collecting information and news. but not much else .it was raining sleet that time. as he didn't have one of those breathing masks which allowed people to go under water easily." Naruto answered. Few of your kids got ill because of the journey . Still. And Yahiko doesn't want to steal anymore because he doesn't want to damage the gang's reputation." the other answered and sighed. it doesn't make much difference if the war continues." Naruto said after managing through the illusions and the traps. even while manipulating wind chakra to create a bubble around him. People are preparing… and they are frightened. The third hideout was in a cave much like the first one. but if Rock joins the fight… it's on the matter of time before this place becomes a battle field again. "And we had to after how fast Hanzo found the previous hideout. The Leaf's apparently trying to do something about it." "Yeah. Even without looking too clearly. I heard you were attacked. "Yahiko-san. The only opening which he could use at the moment was under a lake. He didn't look insane. but I'm not sure if that's accurate. Much. Everyone is alright." "Don't you?" Naruto asked curiously. aren't they?" Naruto asked." Nagato answered and motioned Naruto to follow. trying to figure out where the Leaf and the Sand were going head to head. "But you can feel it in the air. We can still get fish pretty easily. the others merely cannot be opened from the out side.we can't even buy supplies anymore because the prices went up. " Yahiko answered. they like the concept of peace a little more than they did during ceasefire." Yahiko agreed with a frown." "That's damn good to hear. "In a long run it's better. "Foxes. There will probably be some more aid requests once the fight will reach here. Then the orange haired leader looked up. Anyway." Yahiko answered. Or maybe it was just so that Naruto could meet creatures who had even poorer restraint than he did." Konan murmured." he then specified. thinking about the dragon and wondering if the beast had intentionally led him to Oinarioka because of his fox mask." Naruto answered." Naruto leaned forward to see the map. Yahiko-sama. It didn't 95 . "Look what the cat dragged in! Arashi-san. It was a little flag which read Probable future battlefield. Let's concentrate on what we can do and that is to ensuring safety and security to everyone who wants it." he repeated obediently and even threw a salute to the end." Konan said with a slight frown. so the return trip didn't take so long. "I got some help on the way. Tell me you have a massive summon we can use to defend ourselves. but they all knew it was only matter of time. but not too many. "Did you go out your way to look for them specifically?" "No. The ones that do want to evacuate will go to Hanzo first and take refuge in Hidden Rain. Yahiko-san." Yahiko grinned. but I think I was specifically guided to them. "I hear you had some trouble while I was gone. nor can we stop Hanzo from being a great big idiot. I have a massive summon we can use to defend ourselves." Naruto bowed mockingly. "Do you have enough hideouts?" he asked thoughtfully. "What will we do if the fight comes here?" he asked with worry. tell me the good news.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN traveller was saying. "Now we just need to have them seen once or twice for the word to spread and we'll be taken a little more seriously around here. it's better for the water not to be poisoned then. "Yes." "I got a lift." Yahiko snorted. "Right now there's nothing we can do to stop the larger nations from fighting." he pointed. as we are fighting for the same things they want. The fighting was still taking place further to east from them." Naruto answered. sir. his expression lightening. setting up a marker over the village. "Would be pretty odd for the Leaf to try and counter a poison that doesn't even affect them." "With the threat of war hanging over their heads again." "We've already gotten some new members. the biggest foxes will be enough to match Hanzo's biggest lizards so we don't have to worry about that. If they need to use the place as a camp or a battle field." Naruto frowned. folding his arms. "will want to evacuate…" "They won't. sir. people are a little more willing to side with us. "If all the people here. "So. We weren't expecting you for another week or two. The ones that come to us are the most desperate ones as we don't have that much to offer. looking down to the dots which meant Rain villages. Many of them were on the area just between the three nations. "Naturally. sir." "Nothing we couldn't handle." Yahiko sighed. "Now that the fighting's continued. "People of Rain are too adjusted to dying in the fights of others that most of them will do nothing but hope that they can wait it out. a little incredulous while he looked down to the plans Yahiko. it was merely another enemy to fight for those already fighting." Yahiko answered. before going through the hand seals. and in a poof of chakra Kuda appeared.or in this case. At this point. but if we can create a scroll that can hold a prisoner in suspended animation…" "Well. though. Naruto realised immediately. Naruto quickly bit his thumb to draw blood. The others looked at him expectantly. Apparently they had already realised it. "Sometimes I leave them behind to gather nature's energy . and that only for myself and my clones. "The best I know is how to make a reverse summoning seal. turning to him. changing looks with his two friends.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN seem like Yahiko to take part in the fight. you do realise you will need to make a prison?" he asked quietly. who had created the contract for summoning foxes. a fourth ." Naruto snorted. 96 . Are there seals like that?" "That's why we'd need the help of someone who is more skilled with sealing. He frowned. And of course there was Inari. "We have already something figured out a plan that might work to that effect. Kuda for one was one of Oinarioka's best sealers. hopefully your summons will give us some standing… and one day people will automatically stop fighting when we arrive." "Why for your clones?" Konan asked curiously. nor do we have the resources to maintain such a thing." Yahiko answered. I have no idea how to do that. "But first and foremost we will protect those who trust us to protect them.could stop a fight with their mere presence." Tall order. and coughing softly in embarrassment.that way I can use Senjutsu in battle. A very tall order. he pressed it to the map table. though. but living human beings are a little harder to store. It would be the best way to secure possible enemies. Thinking of the ways he had done it made him think of the toads and then the foxed. "That's… I don't know if that's brilliant or idiotic. "Some of the foxes I met know Fuuinjutsu. But… with the right use of his foxes… they might be able to do something to that effect. "Yahiko-san. "There are seals that can store dead human bodies. "We can't just pat to the back after we've stopped them from killing each other and send them on their merry way. We don't have the resources to create a prison actually capable of containing Shinobi. Hopefully we can establish a reputation." Naruto shrugged. "Do you have any skills with Fuuinjutsu.party joined the fight. Only the people of Kage level . even the Three Legendary Ninja weren't strong or well known enough to make that happen. "We will protect everyone we can and if possible we will bloodlessly stop any fights we can. Usually when a third ." Yahiko frowned darkly. Arashi-san?" x "Storage seals?" Naruto asked. Nagato and Konan had made for the so called prison.and Madara's level . Instead of pressing the summoning seal to the floor. we know as much." Yahiko answered." he said suddenly. He was holding a noodle in his small front paws and was looking annoyed in a way only a fox could. Arashi? Hmm… interesting." Kuda snorted. I never lose." the fox said. though it was used to seal summoned animals not humans.though they preferred to think it was because that way they could tell their summoners apart. Well then. All summons needed or wanted them. Of course." he muttered under his breath. Arashi. more humans. though." he finished the explanation. Kuda. what's in it for me?" Naruto sighed. blood. "I'll buy you another bowl one day. but I think I've heard of sealing style like this. "But the question is. the better. noticing that they were alone. me demanding payment too high and we eventually settling for some middle ground. what do you want?" While Yahiko. 97 . Naruto found. which might or might not end up being more profitable for one party…" "Trust me. were almost as blatant about their demand for sacrifices as snakes were. It should go roughly along the lines of you giving offer too low. though. That wasn't it. with time and patience. "Foxes. "A pint of your blood. now. but it was pretty much the same thing. "Sure.the bigger sacrifice. slithering up to Naruto's shoulders." Naruto answered while holding his hand out for the fox to wrap itself around. especially coming from a Shinobi. "A sacrifice. you don't want to start gambling with me. "What do you want?" "Now. foxes made their desires known by bargaining whilst snakes just demanded. gave summoned animals energy and extended their chakra reserves . These ones would be your little gang. the answering machine?" the little fox grumbled and then looked around. Nagato and Konan examined the peculiar fox with curiosity." the pipe fox said. sorry. so this would be ideal. True. "Do you think it can be done?" "A good Fuuinjutsu master can do pretty much anything they set their mind to.with each one he grew stronger. Inari-sama can whip a seal like that with his tail hairs. "Oh. "I was eating!" "Sorry. Foxes. bones and chakra. "We don't have any other way of storing prisoners and we have no intention of killing anyone. that's a bad bargaining form. I need you to answer me a question now. I promise. "What kind?" Naruto asked after moment of silence. Parts of humans like flesh." "Whaddya I look like. or something like that…" "But it can be done?" Naruto asked. then." Naruto sighed. You never let the other side set the terms. And If I can't do it.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Oi!" the pipe fox snarled. Just say what do you want and I'll tell if I'm willing to give it." Kuda answered with a twitch of his tail. Naruto explained the plan to the fox. That was why Manda demanded such huge amounts of sacrifices . Sacrifices. Even toads needed a blood sacrifice to be summoned . "I wouldn't be able to create a seal like that on the fly. Naruto frowned with slight distaste. They used to use it in a battlefield I think to stop enemies from using their summons again. just for the future reference. "Is it always like this with foxes?" she asked with slightly sickly tone. let's not ask them to build us a castle in the clouds." Naruto sighed. He had a feeling that if he'd ever need to summon Inari. probably. which Naruto had already experienced once or twice. maybe. alright? Not that they could do it." the summoner answered and. In truth.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Out of the question. If your foxes can figure out how to make the prison seal." "Thanks. "You. So." 98 . the pipe fox vanished. With a ferocious yelp. the sacrifice he'd have to pay for the great foxes help would be much greater.not much for a Shinobi with Naruto's stamina. With a sigh Naruto pulled back the metal mesh of his under shirt to reveal his wrist and held it out of the fox." Naruto grimaced. then that will be one concern off our shoulders. the more I ask from the foxes. uh… might want to bandage that before you bleed all over the place. but the smaller foxes bit. For the toads he had never really had to give the sacrifice much thought. you know?" "Yeah. despite his earlier arguments. The bargaining ended up in one quarter of a pint . That made him a little wary about giving into the demands for sacrifices. "Also. "Thanks for the meal. "Only with the annoying ones. but no way are you getting a whole pint from me." Kuda grinned while he pulled back. more so when a fox wanted blood. he would've happily given it for the help they had provided. I can spare a table spoon." Yahiko said. Foxes though had particularly painful way of extracting their sacrifices. It was a little easier with the bigger foxes because they only wanted to eat his shadow clones and consume the chakra in them. but for a fox of Kuda's size it was a lot. Kuda opened his jaws and bit. wincing slightly as the pipe fox's needle sharp teeth bit deeper into his flesh. giving a look at Naruto's hand. as all they had ever asked from him was the blood he needed to spill in order to summon. Konan grimaced and looked away. "Gimme a few days and I'll figure out the seals for you." Naruto answered while holding his bleeding wrist. More often than not he used the blood he had already spilled from whatever wounds he had gotten from whatever battle he had been in at the time. but they'd still ask king's ransoms for trying. the more they demand in return. the bargaining was on. Naruto had never minded sacrificing a little for his summons. That was especially bothersome since he no longer had the Kyuubi's enhanced healing. and with a curl of chakra smoke. And even if the toads had demanded more. "Well… I think that settles that. though. though the idea of putting Hanzo into one of the scrolls was appealing to say at least. of course ." Yahiko continued. The scrolls were rather like the Chuunin-exam Heaven and Earth scrolls. It would also send a strong message. Naruto could proudly say that Kuda definitely knew his stuff. they would send the scrolls to the homes of those Shinobi.and if intervention stops bloodshed. and Nagato managed to duplicate a working Prison Scroll.it will be better that we have the scrolls than that we don't have them. we will send back in a scroll you can't open.not to mention about being able to pain a seal like that on the fly. "No. That way we can hand over the scrolls to their countries. "If Hanzo finds out about the Prison Scrolls. Naruto and Nagato were the first two in the gang to dedicate their time to it.in this case. That went against his beliefs and would open a can of worms their little gang wouldn't be able to handle. 99 . no one would be able to release the seals without the key-tag. Of course Yahiko wouldn't keep the prisoners. the key was paper tag. If we run into a fight that we can intervene with . when the scrolls alone were sent to the countries the prisoners they hailed from. "It will still make us a target. it was still food. "We'll make it a standard for everyone to have at least two Prison Scrolls with them for now. but that wasn't actually a bad thing. after two weeks of working on the matter." Yahiko said while they studied the original scrolls Kuda had made for them and then the long list of instructions the pipe fox had added. And aside from being in the different place. "It will be tough getting the material for the scrolls. Every Shinobi we encounter fighting here. So. Naruto was still trying to manage it by the time Yahiko and Konan took the time to learn to make the scroll as well. and could be only opened when there was a Key present ." Naruto blinked and then realised." Naruto murmured." Konan murmured. but they would have the scrolls and the prisoners in their possession. Naturally after sealing Shinobi of other nations. but it ended up being so complicated that it would take a while for anyone to be able to duplicate it ." "We can't just start taking prisoners. At least there was lot of the fish and aside from getting monotonous after a while.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 11 – DAWN OF AKATSUKI Aside from being dog-piled by students who were all eager to show him what new tricks they had learned while he had been away and demand him to teach them some new tricks. these will be just in case. Kuda managed to create the prison seal in four days." "Or take us out so that we can't use the Prison Scrolls against him." Yahiko said and smiled at one of the instructions. the security was a bit more severe and there was more fish on the plate. Despite being as annoying as he was. Naruto's return to the gang happened without much of a hitch. as they ended up calling them. though. the gang's life hadn't much changed since the last time he had seen it. It was much better to send the scrolls back than to seem like a kidnapper. It was rather like taking hostages without actually taking the hostages. "Its good thing Kudasensei made the seal a Keyed one. he will want to get the method of making such scrolls from us. "But it's better to be prepared. So." Konan mused. " "As long as I can summon my clones. So. Afterwards Nagato destroyed the instruction scrolls with a Katon jutsu and thus the information of how to make them only resided in them. "I didn't even know you could summon people." "More likely they will demand it to become public knowledge and when we don't release the information. he modified it for me to summon my clones and I later modified it to this array. Nagato and Konan took some time to make the scrolls and their key tags. "Before you ask. "If it doesn't become known as Kinjutsu. This is one skill we don't want to hand over to anyone. we will destroy the instructions. "That would put you into a bad position. It's rather big and I imagine it could get in your way in a battle. for now we will keep the scrolls a secret for as long as we can." Naruto answered.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Which is why once enough of us know how to make the scroll." Konan said. Nagato-san. "That seems rather handy. though. the blame falls only on me and not on one country. "It's best I take the blame for it." Nagato mused while watching Naruto carefully paint the seals in ink and blood." 100 . but it was logical that Fukasaku had learned it from another toad. Then he glanced at the finished scroll. it's not a skill humans know. so technically he wasn't lying. it is better that I will take the blame alone. but not of creating it. "One thing about this concerns me." Naruto answered. they wouldn't have worked. "Also. looking thoughtful. These arrays are made for me specifically and they only work because I'm a summoner . the one Naruto had made for himself. "We don't want to soil your reputation after all. While Yahiko." Naruto answered and glanced up. And I can easily say I created the art long before I ever met you guys. only the four of them learned how to make the scrolls. Naruto turned to another project and made his personalised summoning scroll ." "You sure?" Yahiko asked. then they will get all the credit from it. But I don't want them to get the reputation of Kinjutsu creators either. and I don't want to add any more dirt to that with a jutsu I asked Kuda to create for us. folding his arms." Actually he had learned it from animal." "It's better for me to be in that position than you. You'd need to have summoning contract first before you could be summoned like this. though. Animals created it when they created summoning contracts." Yahiko agreed. of course. And as long as the fights won't reach here. Hanzo and Danzo and lot of other people know that I'm not from Rain and no one knows where I am originally from." In the end. crouching beside him to watch him work. which lets other people summon me. A seal like this will be announced Kinjutsu the moment it will become public knowledge.one for his clones which he himself would start carrying. "I learned it from someone who learned it from an animal. though carrying a scroll like that seems a bit problematic. if I will become known as the creator of a forbidden jutsu. I can't teach this to you. "They are already frowned down upon as the nine tailed demon's kin. No. it's unlikely we need to use them. then they will announce it as a forbidden art. "Hmm…" Nagato murmured." "Well. I don't really mind." Naruto answered. and one for the gang so that they could summon him in person.that's why I didn't make them before." Naruto shook his head. which would only make you guilty of using the art." "But… the art came from the foxes. "It really seems handy. if it comes to that." He took one of the finished scrolls and held it open. so there needs to be a scroll with the right signature to work as the means. Nagato and Konan made plans.and me. Lot of planning was involved nonetheless. Naruto thought. "I've… never actually thought of that. rescue plans. Especially when it was a war you yourself weren't fighting . done. you've been part of summon network before." Naruto answered with a slight frown and then pulled his brush back. And they had also their few customers. I imagine. So. they did a whole lot more than sat around just waiting. Would it be between Leaf and Sand. but back in the future. "Being summoner is misleading term like that. to arrange a foodstocking schedule.though waiting during your own war was probably equally annoying. when he had had the toad contract… "That could be awkward unless you've agreed upon it. "There. Of course I can't exactly summon myself." x Waiting. They also had an information network which they were running." "Does this mean that summoners with same animal contract can summon each other?" Nagato asked curiously. Most of the time he felt like he and the rest of the gang were huddling around a table. Just as I can summon foxes. though." someone suggested with about as much humour as kunai to the gut. or maybe Sand and Rock. It was a bit messier than the one Fukasaku had once made for him. just waiting for the fight to begin. And people outside the network naturally can't summon me. part of the network of summoning specially used by the foxes. but it would work well enough. they can summon each other . Of course he couldn't do it anymore. Just try avoiding meal times. was the worse part of war. and back up plans for them.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Really?" Nagato asked curiously. "Being part of the summon network gives me a certain sort of chakra signature that allows summoning. They made evacuation plans." Nagato nodded. They made battle plans. and back up plans for the back up plans. or possibly Leaf and Rock? In a war where there were three parties and each were more than willing to attack the others. then?" he asked. "Maybe they will attack each other all at once and there will be a huge messy battle between all three. they accommodated everyone to those schedules and kept things generally running." "Yes. Yahiko. That contract is void now. And still somewhere along the way they had the time to set up watches." Naruto shrugged. it was hard to say who was most likely to attack whom. still looking thoughtful. What I am is actually honorary summon. they were also keeping up with their relationship with some other gangs which were trying to steer away from Hanzo. Of course. diversion plans… How they remembered it all. Now you can summon my magnificent self no matter where I am. so I need a scroll to get my clones. I was. retreat plans. He inspected the scroll once and then grinned. Naruto had no idea. and all the while doing that. some who were having them do some tasks and others who were paying them so that they'd ensure 101 . "You knew this before you had the fox contract and you've obviously used it." Naruto murmured and then snorted at the idea of summoning Jiraiya. speculating when and where they'd see the first foreign Shinobi and what sort of battle it would be. "You've had a summoning contract before. they were also doing their best to spread word about themselves and recruit new members. So.and once they had established rules of hand-to-hand only. she had always seemed the most set on her ways to Naruto. If running a village was anything like running a gang. Naruto was by no means a good teacher . but he was good at helping them improve their stamina and if he used his clones. And Nagato had years of experience of using the Rinnegan in battle . It was impossible to take hold of Nagato. And with a war looming ahead. But then.and training with Jiraiya on how to use it. using her 102 . Yahiko didn't seem like much in comparison to Nagato and his fancy Rinnegan and ability to use all elements. The Six had been incredible. but the orange haired Shinobi wasn't the leader just because of his personality… or leadership skills. But Nagato in the prime of his youth was something else. It wasn't only helping them improve. Naruto wasn't all that sure if he could've come out on top against him in all out match. Nagato on other hand mastered several alone. Naruto had fun with the sparring and teaching sessions. He himself concentrated onto things he knew how to do. now. naturally. Naruto got his ass handed to him quite spectacularly. people could use as much strength against them as they could muster. It was both mortifying and in the same time gratifying to find that Naruto also lost to Konan. Senjutsu was pretty much only thing he truly mastered. with his Rinnegan open and glaring he probably perceived and internalised what he saw with detail Naruto could never hope to match. and that was nothing anyone could learn in less than few months or years unless they had help like the use of frog oils. Fighting him. Naruto no longer wanted to be a Hokage. or sheer intelligence. but they had been also divided with each possessing one talent. was the first who decided to have a go . But what he could do was offer one hell of a sparring partner to anyone looking for one. there were lot among them who were looking for the chance to improve and get stronger in any way possible. Nagato was the next one to go and Naruto lasted splendid five minutes before meeting the ground. but it was also helping Naruto as he came to be more familiar with the Taijutsu styles of Rain and how to fight against them. Of all three of them.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN quick evacuation and safe place if necessary. he moved fluently and without a pause and seemed to predict every single move from his opponent. Yahiko. Fighting the Six Paths of Pain had been difficult. It made him wonder if Nagato had actually made himself considerably weaker by establishing the use of his Six Paths. Probably did as well. Yahiko probably would've been a goddamned hard opponent even with Ninjutsu and all other tricks they had in their respective sleeves included. Not to mention that it was probably easier to control one's own body than it was to control six corpses from miles away. And. He only knew few non-forbidden Ninjutsu and couldn't teach any of it to anyone as Nagato was the only one in the gang aside from him who could manage Fuuton jutsu. It mainly involved teaching the younger ones and sparring with the elder ones. up until the big bad three decided that they too could use some practice. He couldn't tell anyone how to improve their style or what sort of stances were right. Fighting Nagato was like fighting Itachi who instead of being expert in Genjutsu had instead gone with Taijutsu. only thing he really could teach was the basics of chakra control.his Taijutsu style was a patchwork of several other styles and in no way refined. though those things probably had something to do with it as well. the grimmer it seemed. "The Sand-nin really have unsightly ways of fighting. at least I think it was something like that. not with these sneaky methods…" "Well. I hear they even replaced a medicine in a shipment with poisons!" "Hasn't gotten them far yet. She would've been devastating with the Gentle Fist fighting style. If it wasn't Hanzo. about to be ground do dust. then it's the rice. If it's not the wells. He didn't get the chance to ask more information about it. but if the border's broken down there. "We've heard that Rock-nin have broken down the Rain border up in north. who were almost literally against a rock and a hard place." "It's still pretty nasty way of having a war. And that was just the following twenty to thirty years. sparred. But she was definitely not weak.or what sort of villains the changes Naruto had made into the time line would create. rather like paper cuts. not only between Leaf and Sand. watched his very capable leaders making their plans. if not that then it's the cattle. though." The words were followed by some mumbling but no one spoke out and Yahiko continued. it's only matter of 103 . has it?" another gang member answered with a snort. "So far they haven't sent any troops. But he knew that as good as they were. as Yahiko came to the dinner hall and clapped his hands to get their attention. x The more news they got. then Madara. If not the Kages. and hopefully got a little bit stronger. The war was heating up. It had seemed like incredible technique. if Sand did manage to make their poisons work against the Leaf." one of the gang members mused during one morning meal while Naruto ate his daily portion of the never-ending fish. but that was a small blessing for the small nations between Fire. Anyway. Who knew about what kind of enemies would appear later on . I think we would've heard about it by now." the other murmured. poking his food. There was always some reason to get stronger. there was always someone better. but also between the two of them and Rock. then it was the Kages. "Can I have everyone's attention?" the orange haired shinobi called and immediately everyone turned to face him. glancing at them and wondering why the mention about the medic-nin sounded familiar. She was fast and her moves were sharp and sudden. The whole ordeal made him feel a little silly for worrying after them so much and going as far as he had gone to get a summoning contract to protect them. "Wars ought to be fought with honest steel if they're fought at all. they're ninja.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN paper for anything and everything. "I hear there's some brilliant medic-nin in Leaf that's solved out anti-drugs for every poison Sand's sent at them… Well. "All those poisons. And so in waiting Naruto taught. Wind and Earth countries. Cloud so far seemed happy not to take any part in the war and Mist was too busy with it's internal struggles to do much anything. but using one thing alone also seemed like a weakness. What can you do?" Naruto blinked. Naruto counted his blessings that she hadn't been born a Hyuuga. then the future Akatsuki… And if not them. and what she lost with strength she gained in sheer precision. it was possible that he would soon be. and three villages are on those paths. for the first time in his life. making Yahiko give him a curious and mildly surprised look. said nothing and instead sat down to eat his fish." "Not a damn thing. it's safe to say that Leaf or Sand will come to meet them. "Arashi-san?" "Send me to the immediate danger zone." he agreed with the unspoken assumption. He had never been in a real war .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN time before it starts falling other where.he would be the protection and if necessary. After all. He had a feeling he would need it. now in alert.and the invasion by Orochimaru had been only that. Everyone willing to go will sign their names here. "Yeah. he remembered." someone murmured. This was what they had signed in for. He was one of their heaviest hitters . and war against one man wasn't really a war at all .towards the village 104 . "So. Naruto stood up as well. and didn't specify. some hesitating and others immediate. it seemed to only get more annoying. He didn't need to." Yahiko nodded. Not that burning down anything would be all that easy in land of perpetual rain. To protect. "Right.Konan ." Yahiko said while placing a piece of paper to the nearest table. to stop blood shed." Naruto simply said. though he felt a little ticked off that Yahiko felt the need to remind him of all people that they were never meant to kill. only broken by the sound of chairs being pushed back as people stood up. x Naruto had hoped that he would eventually get used to the constant rain. None of them were particularly good fighters." the orange haired ninja said. the distraction. Naruto remembered. "Nagato." This time there was silence. after all.but even he knew that happened to villages on the path of war machines. But each time he had to run through it. an invasion. volunteers?" Hands immediately went up. It's possible that Hanzo has already foreseen this as well.the heaviest if one counted his summons. They got robbed. to try and make peace where ever it could be made. It didn't slow him or the others down much as they followed their designated team leader . but we know what he does in cases like these when civilian villages are involved. Most weren't even average. but aside from that no one had much to say. "Very well. "I need volunteers to go to the villages to warn them and help with possible evacuation if it should occur. Yahiko smiled proudly with little bit of sadness in his eyes. A just barely trained young Shinobi from a civilian family. "I will select teams who will go to specific villages. He wouldn't be going to help in evacuation . After a moment of thought. Konan and I have already tried to predict the paths they will take if they're going to travel through the Rain. Naruto. and frowned. Any questions?" Everyone wanted to know what villages were the ones on the Rock's path. fighting in a war. he lifted his hand as well. but the risk of death and destruction was still serious. Naruto glanced at the ones willing to go. looking at all of them. And if they're coming. the people often were abused if not killed and at worse cases places like that were simply burned down. just as long as you remember our beliefs. difficult to cross and the rain was pouring down on them even harder than before. "Those with the strength for it will come us in the morning. "There's little else we can do. Naruto was also missing trees and bushes and grass. If the place did have a lord." And in the morning running continued. For Naruto it wasn't anything he could handle. Naruto kept his eyes ahead.raping the towns and villages that they crossed on their way of all food and gear. though the more he heard of this mission. except maybe in directing them in how to hide should the Rock-nin travel through or near their village." she nodded and looked at the others. Hell. "We can't lag. "We will first inform the village of the state of affairs unless they are already informed and then offer the chance to evacuate for those who wish to do so.hell.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN closest to the broken border. and Konan was hoping to cut it at least by a day. Get some rest. Still. really irritating. "But if I ran two days and nights straight. you're up to continuing. but he could tell that it was already paying its toll to the less experienced Shinobi in their midst. he would've summoned a fox to carry the lot of them. He had never heard of the Fire Country's Lord doing much anything or making any decisions about the country. not with this." "Just as long as you're up to running first thing in the morning. Or… did the country actually have a Lord? So far it had seemed like Hanzo ruled the entire nation without argument from anyone ." she answered." Naruto answered. he had put the little country into economically sealed box with his border walls and no one but Yahiko had argued against that. but they certainly seemed willing to try even though the way war long. That. he certainly didn't seem to have much power. would've been rather counterproductive as they were trying to remain unseen. Naruto had lost count with how many villages and neighbourhoods he himself had devastated fighting against this or that enemy. The Great Shinobi Wars all ran across the maps unchecked and uncaring of the civilians that were in their way . Naruto wasn't sure if the two that did come with him and Konan were really up to it. it wasn't the time to whine and instead of even frowning too hard. Arashi. But then. you all. Two of their six-man team stayed behind and would follow in slightly more moderate pace. the less he liked it. so they were keeping a good pace. right?" "I could continue right this moment if I had to. It was the 105 . but it was really. Konan. "Those who are left behind will have just have to come behind us." Konan said during the first night which they spend in the shelter of one of those odd forest-like rock formations the constant rain had seemed to make everywhere in the country. so that wouldn't work out too well. others will stay behind and come a little later. How could the people of the Rain live in a country like this? It felt like all the waters of the entire planet had poured down on them and then some and there wasn't anything in the scenery to lighten the mood." Naruto nodded. but even more civilians. In only distant thought he wondered what the Rain Country's Daimyo thought of this. It only then dawned to him how little Shinobi thought about the civilians during their wars and fights. Pain had brought the entire Hidden Leaf to ground and not only lot of ninja died during that event. I'd drop dead once I did finally get there. "How will we proceed once we get there?" Naruto asked from. If their willpower hadn't been so strong. who was running few steps ahead of him. It was three days run to the village from the gang hideout. Daimyos never really seemed to have power. though. so he wouldn't be much help in rousing the village." 106 . There was someone near by. That alone made Daimyo's seat mighty unstable. making metallic cling and then grinding sound as the assailant tried to pressure him to lower his hand." unfamiliar voice said. I presume?" The slightly surprised Rock-nin grunted and then grinned behind his mask. "It's a good question. with Rock looming about the village. "Or a first foot soldier of an invasion force. He didn't know these people. "Common sense. Naruto lifted his hand automatically in guard and kunai hit against a sword. We have much more important stuff to use our little money to." There were two fast splashes .and the fact that he wore a mask now almost constantly didn't help . watching for any possible assailants was pretty important too. so he wouldn't know what motivated them either. murmured when Naruto pulled out his almost-orange umbrella from the pack which held the enormous clone-summoning scroll and his gear. Orange is an awesome colour. Shoya. "Hello. folding his arms and giving him a judging look. "I don't get why you don't have umbrellas or hats or anything like that when it's raining constantly around here. He was too rough and too foreign for this sort of delicate business ." Naruto answered cheerfully while taking in the masked face and Rock head band. It was also the Hokage who decided whether or not there was a war. it was dark and the only light that could be seen in the thick rain was the lights inside houses. and we are strong enough to handle the rain without any aids like that. A scout. Konan would do better job at it than he'd ever could." he answered and happily pushed the paper umbrella open. hidden behind curtains and shutters. Konan inspected the village once with Naruto on her heels and once they were certain that the village was untouched. "I could have a hundred men behind my back." Naruto huffed before frowning. she sent Naruto and one of the other of their gang to watch duty while she and the other one would go around village." the guy Naruto was out on the watch. x "Unfair. "What kind of ninja wears orange? A very foolish one. Besides." "Shut up.feet hitting the ground ." he answered. it was the Hokage who seemed to run everything. "Or one who invites an attack. "What kind of ninja wears orange anyway? You only need orange sandals and you'd be wearing nothing but. his hand darting to his kunai pouch. I think." Shoya answered. But then. The pitter-patter against the oiled paper was certainly much nicer sound than the gloomy endless sound of water hitting the puddles in the ground.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Hokage who made the deals and treaties and arranged the co-work between allied nations. a Kage could have a Daimyo killed and replaced in a heart beat." "Hmph. The Fox Sage stuck out his tongue and grinned. When they came to the village. not the Lord. Naruto didn't argue against the watch duty.and then a whisk as hand came forward. rousing people. He threw the prison scroll open like uncurling a whip and with a tug of his hand had the Rock-nin wrapped in it. "You really should see what you're up against before you go attacking people. the scout safely contained inside it. "This won't hurt a bit. He held the scroll up with a grin." Naruto said while reaching back and taking out standard sized scroll from his kunai pouch. "Well… shit. There was a poof of chakra and then the scroll pulled itself shut with a snap. "Go and find Konan-san. Before it even hit the ground. making him unable to move them. a little excited to be the first to use a Prison Scroll." x Konan didn't have the chance to reach Naruto before he was already being greeted by a fourman cell of Rock-nin ." Before he could use the scroll. Naruto snatched the scroll from the air before it even stopped spinning midair." the Rock-nin muttered with obvious dismay and glared at Naruto who was calmly straddling him and holding him down with his weight." Naruto nodded towards Shoya. "Where is 107 . the Shinobi twisted underneath him. it was only made of paper and wood after all. probably. the Rock-nin send a red signal fire flying past Naruto and up to the sky. "We can't let him go. and thrust it into his pouch.but it was a flare." "Idiot. it takes more than idiot to survive to my age whilst wearing orange.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Few of those hundred men would've attacked my friend by now." Naruto answered solemnly. he'd run right back to the Rock-nin and tell them we're here. staring up at the fading light." "What will we do with him?" Shoya asked. he shifted so that his knees were pressing against the shinobi's upper arms." Naruto said to him while holding a kunai to the man's throat and reaching to take the sword from his hands. "Because seriously. But you have to admit. With a sharp tug on a string. however. "Don't worry.teacher and three students by the looks of it. Just to be safe side." he said Shoya while picking up his umbrella and tenderly brushing off what little dirt that had stuck to the oiled paper and examining a rip near the edge. we can't have that. "Tell them we're about to have some company. He really shouldn't treat it so roughly. only idiot would wear orange." Naruto nodded while the Rock-nin looked up to them with sudden worry. his kunai was ringing against the Rock-nin's sword and with few moves from Frog katas he had the man pinned to the ground. for ninja that was like middle age. Naruto glanced at him before shifting closer and pushing the Rock-nin from him and throwing the umbrella to the air. and pulled out something." Shoya muttered. With a curse Naruto jumped back from the grinning Rock-nin. where it lit the rain and the clouds for a moment and then started to die. "Nu-uh. At first Naruto thought it was a scroll of weapon of something . "You aren't going anywhere just yet. the team was already pulling out weapons." "I got blinded by the orange robe. He was already eighteen. "Too hasty. While Naruto wondered about the universality of ninja teams." "Yes. who had taken out two long kunai and was getting ready to attack." he said when the Rock-nin tried to move and pressed the kunai tighter against his throat. "You might be way over your head.and fighting against kids just seemed like bad form. grabbing hold of her wrist and swiftly unarming her. Then. "No can do. and snatching her wrist. Must be a Genin. Several times." "Then we will force you to return him to us!" the girl yelled and attacked." Naruto answered flatly while pulling his umbrella shut with a mournful sigh." Naruto answered while looking between the four of them. clenching onto her short knifes tightly. you know. And he didn't want to fight in either case." There was no battle to be stopped and no massacre to be prevented and instead these guys wanted to fight him . but it would keep her from trying to attack again. But then. He had never really fought against people so much weaker than himself. "Arashi-san!" she yelled as she jumped to join Naruto and the four Rock-nin on the rainy field. What were they doing sending Genin into hostile territory? "You know. the Fox Sage thought a little distantly while parrying her attack." "Like orange idiot like you would know anything about fighting!" she growled while pulling out another knife and trying to hit Naruto with it. Naruto blinked with surprise while the team's teacher called her to stop.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Osakini-san?" a female student of the team demanded to know. It wouldn't be much use in a fight and he didn't want to damage it any further. "You bastard! Let her go!" he girl's team mate yelled. probably. I don't like it. "What did you do with him?" "We compared weapon sizes and then I rolled him in the puddles for a moment. "It feels like I'm bullying little kids. It wouldn't hurt her too much." Naruto said to the girl while pulling her hand up so that she had to balance on the tip of her toes. he seemed to be the strongest of the lot . It was easy task taking the knife from her. definitely a Genin. so he wouldn't be able to contain them all. Naruto swallowed. The teacher of the team might've been strong and given chance would've given him a run for his money. Naruto was holding one of his students more or less a hostage ." "We'd appreciate it if you'd return him to us." the team's leader said while holding up a sleek sword. Yep.and the fact that he was holding not only one but two of the girl's knifes in his free hand probably looked pretty bad. Best would be to go after the teacher. "Your buddy attacked me and that makes me a little prejudice against people. He only had two more prison scrolls." She gave him a look of mixed confusion and amusement and shook her head. no one actually told me what to do in situation like this. "What are you doing?" "Bullying little kids?" he offered awkwardly and glanced at the girl he was holding. He now had odd feeling of what Jiraiya must've felt that time Naruto had tried to attack him. actually. except it didn't feel like the girl had given him much choice but to take her a hostage. a head start isn't always a good thing. "Don't worry. "Just let her 108 . You know. holding both of her wrists in one hand. but was held back by their teacher who was now looking at Naruto with obvious worry. "This makes me feel like I'm the bad guy. I was gentle. but the kids definitely weren't he had no idea what he was supposed to do.except with the kids there that he was afraid he'd seriously hurt them if he'd try. the blonde Sage gave the girl a look of consideration. Thankfully Konan came to save him. though. He was still too new to this fighting a war without fighting thing that he couldn't be really sure.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN go. "So mind your mouth." he murmured a little defensively while pulling out the Prison Scroll and handing it to her." she frowned at the Rock-nin who were checking that their team mate was alright and keeping watchful eye on them. Slapping it against a square drawn into the scroll." Konan answered. The seal from it was gone. she murmured." she said slowly and looked at the Rock-nin. He glanced at her." "What weak ideals." the leader of the Rock-nin team said while the confused scout scrambled back to join the ninja of his village. "The evacuation?" She shook her head grimly. Disoriented. "I suppose we need to teach you some of our tactics about how to handle a situation like that. "Go join your people. It was nice that someone knew what to do." she murmured while Naruto released the girl who. "Are these the only ones that came?" "The only ones or the first ones." she said and looked down to the scout." the sullen girl muttered while rubbing her wrists and glaring at masked Naruto. "I should've known he'd have a signal flare. With a shake of her head. "We're trying to convince the people to leave before main force of your army will arrive. After rolling it shut.they weren't the enemy." and freed the scout Naruto had imprisoned from the scroll. ran back to her team. she pulled the scroll open and took out a key tag. making Naruto a little confused about why she was talking with the enemy." "Oh?" the elder of the four Rock-nin murmured with mild surprise. "Wait. Then he realised ." Konan answered. "We are not." Naruto answered cheerfully while looking at the scroll. little missy." "Excuse me?" the leader of the Rock-nin team lifted his hand. They don't believe that anyone will attack their remote village. "Release. the man fell to the ground. sorry." "Sorry." "You're not Shinobi from the Village Hidden in Rain." Konan nodded while pulling the release tag of the scroll and then handing the scroll back to Naruto "We only wish to stop the killing and the useless bloodshed." "We're part of an independent group. he pushed it back into his pouch. giving Naruto a mild glare. "There." 109 . "No." she said with a sigh. "Only few are even remotely interested in leaving and they think there is no hurry and might only consider starting to pack in the morning. Not for them. looking around with confusion. "Evacuation?" "There's a civilian village ahead. with a little bewildered look. if you would… the scroll?" "They attacked me first. "I guess you proved them wrong. but the scroll could be used to make another seal." Naruto answered with a mildly relieved tone. Arashi-san. "I've fought their ninja before and this certainly isn't among their tactics. "The weak ideals had your ass handed to you. "Shoya said you apprehended a scout that sent out a flare. you're not here to fight us?" one of the boys in the man's team asked." Naruto sighed. so it was alright. We cannot stop ourselves from feeling hate or anger. The great big evil world threatening to swallow them whole and turn Nagato into world-killing monster. But saying and hearing it was different than witnessing it. Naruto had known their policies before. "Enemies or allies are all notions made for war and for separating people from each other. Konan-san. Of course there are always those who simply do not care." Thankfully. Naruto thought with mild sadness. but best we can do is try and not make people hate us. well. In reality. Shinobi of the Rock." she sighed.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "What is the name of your group?" the leader of the Rock-nin team asked curiously. the mistress of paper who had been so widely feared in the future. of the Leaf. x Naruto knew how easy it was to think of the enemy as being inhuman.and in lesser degree the Leaf and the Country of Fire . "You know. stupid and evil. they probably thought it was because of the rain.was a little astonishing. no one noticed Naruto shudder and if they did. but he had witnessed too much for blind belief anymore. we're on the right track. Just people. had neutralised all will to fight in the Rock-nin with few explanations alone. the so called Shinobi way is never going to be the human way.and he had been the enemy of so many people that the lesson had been almost engraved to his very core." she said as they later organised the evacuation of the few families who had opted to leave their village. huh?" he murmured a little wistfully. but by humans and their treatment. but those are the insane ones who are beyond change. thinking of himself and Gaara and the other Jinchuuriki. Made demons not by their tenants. but no one is born a monster. It was a novel experience to find himself realising that he was in a standing where no one was truly an enemy. Sure. Because before Yahiko's death and Madara's meddling. He had enough enemies for that . the them.the current Akatsuki . "You make me a little shamed of myself." The purity of Akatsuki . It was us which meant Yahiko's gang . No killing and no fighting with the only goal being peace. "Akatsuki. people are just people. the everyone else. Nothing is perfect. Konan. the people who really want to fight in wars are pretty rare. "It's only the misfortune of being born in a different place and a label that makes them an enemy of anyone. An organisation that saw no enemies. Konan paused and then said.of sectioning the entire world into us and the enemy. "But as long as we remember that hate only brings more hate and death only motivates more death. "And even fewer want to kill innocents. Still. That's what Yahiko believes in anyway. of the Sand and of the Rain. "Believe in the good of all humanity." "Yes. He had too. Especially among foot soldiers. especially since he had never found the answer of how to achieve peace. But in the end." 110 ." Konan shrugged. For making those opposing you seen less human. He had been betrayed too many times and he had seen people lose their faith even more times. Still did in some degree. It was hard to believe anymore. that was what Akatsuki had been. in the fear of future he too had fallen into that way of thinking ." Someone are forcibly made monsters afterwards. once.and then there was the enemy. Humans are many things. "But people can please some people some of the time. While saving the tactics as well as he could into his memory . it could only lead into something horrible. reverse absolute. "Those two complete each other's ideals and beliefs. The future however was an organisation of S-class criminals. those two. It was a dream he'd fight hard and long and to his dying breath to see come reality. knowing with certainty that he'd fight twice as hard to keep Akatsuki as it was and never let its beliefs be stained. When something as pure as the current Akatsuki was left in the gutter. He should know. That's better than nothing at all. he would've wondered of something so good could turn into something so bad.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "No one can please everyone all the time. 111 . apparently. if they all really did come true. Naruto would be part of it. heart broken. They were as far from each other as the day and night. "Did Yahiko-san come up with all of this?" he asked quietly. But then it had to be something very good to make something so horrid. "That they do.Naruto wondered about the current Akatsuki and compared it into the future one. He had no idea how he would do it or if he could even do anything at all. "He and Nagato.it wasn't that difficult thankfully . They have big dreams." he murmured and for a moment let himself imagine what it would be like. realising that he wasn't talking about the battle tactics they had been discussing. like Nagato had been after Yahiko's death. And for as long as Akatsuki would remain as it was now. I try to add whatever I can but best I can do is to follow and see that they don't get too far a head of themselves. Turning one absolute upside down created another. but he would definitely try. And will to make them true." Konan said with a smile. he had certainly tried. all with massacres behind them. and certainly better than displeasing everyone all the time." Naruto smiled. Naruto frowned. If he hadn't known where and how it all had gone so wrong." she smiled and then started explaining the battle tactics of their gang to him. and how to deal with the sort of situation he had ran into." Naruto murmured warningly. The current Akatsuki was kinder and gentler than he could've ever imagined any organisation to be. Just like showing kindness and understanding to a monster like Gaara could lead into the birth of the greatest Kazekage ever seen. and stopped them bloodlessly by apprehending the fighters and sealing them. quite obviously vengeful for the poison campaign. Leaf joined the melee. The wall was broken in the east with a large summon and then the chaos of war got a new. Yahiko suspected that he was waiting for them to tire and then he'd take them both out. the demand for them sky rocketed and within the first week of fighting. Bad.their services were being asked more often too. "It's getting more chaotic by the day. merely having his spies watching them from afar. With the fights. Rock was quick to use this to the advantage and try and start a sort of alliance with Leaf." Naruto muttered to himself as one of the clones he had sent to watch the fighting was dispersed and he got the memories. Naruto's big foxes made their first appearance around this time. but the Akatsuki didn't release the key tags to the scrolls. scattering away handful of Shinobi from Rock and Sand and sending them their respective camps. The Akatsuki only interfered with the smaller battles they knew they could handle.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 12 – FOX AND TOAD Week after they had evacuated the few people who had wanted to get out of the way of the war. they sealed twenty four Rock Shinobi and thirty eight Sand Shinobi. but with a Sage. the war begun. Each day both countries send more people into Rain in hopes of pushing right through the enemy force and into the enemy territory. They targeted Sand first and foremost. "Not before the war is over. Yet.but with Leaf it was plain and clear." Yahiko said. it would take a while. Naruto and Nagato started to make handful of clones each day so that they could spend the day making Prison Scrolls. because as the strongest fighters in both sides begun to cause trouble just to get a swing at him . but only when it got too close to the Village Hidden in Rain or some other key location in the country. he and the Akatsuki which he served. but there was nothing they could do to stop it.aside from the most obvious invasion ." 112 . Hanzo interfered with some of the fighting. The scrolls were handed to their respective country men. Shinobi of the Sand rammed right through the wall in the south and two days later the two parties went head to head in a plain of Raincurrent. All they could've done was to add into the chaos. It was both good and bad. a slightly more ferocious feel. "Messy. He became quickly known around the fighting parties. It was only the first of many upcoming battles. There were too many fighters fighting too ferociously. but for now Leaf seemed only intent on paying Sand back in kind for what their poisons had done. Aside from that he seemed content letting the two sides battle each other to their heart's content. Naruto and the three leaders of Akatsuki send their clones to witness the fight. no one came after them for the key tags. but if that was his plan. because it brought them fame and thus the gang got more volunteers . a Rinnegan user and a Suiton master like Yahiko on their side. Month into the fights between Rock and Sand. It didn't make them exactly popular among the Shinobi of the larger nations.and it was only matter of time before Hanzo would come after the gang again. Good. It was also around those times. so very messy. Whatever Sand's or Rock's goal was it was hard to tell . " Yahiko answered. if we want to make peace in a world like this. rubbing his forehead." x 113 . I don't want us to break our morals. tend to the wounded if it's possible." Yahiko nodded and when Naruto merely blinked with confusion.and there is Hanzo to consider too. This was so beyond his talents that it wasn't even funny. but he didn't." "It would make us seem too much like a terrorist group and that's not what I want. Of an entire occupation force they had been the only ones to survive. Right now he's not taking much action because there is little he can do against Shinobi of three nations . Eventually they will either advance." Naruto grimaced." He shook his head. No one has even tried to occupy the country since .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "It was like this before the ceasefire too. not even for this. The tactical advantage is too great . "When we were kids.but if there is only the one. the other nations won't let any one of them occupy the country." Nagato murmured. and stop fighting where ever we can. leaning back and folding his arms. and that is not happening anytime soon.and I don't much like the thought of using hostages to stop this war.though it made sense. "No. it was no wonder. there would be less fighting inside our borders. some titbit of wisdom he could share. "But that won't happen. he shrugged. But that's not happening . he will surely fight to get them out. "Using hostages is a despicable method. He looked tired. They'd go into these fighting spurts. It's not worth the risk to go after Shinobi like that in any case. Hanzo and his people eventually killed them all except for the Three Legendary Ninja and that was that. "You know. yes. The thought put a whole new respect of Hanzo into Naruto." Yahiko sighed. they either will pull back completely or they will send more people…" "It would be easier for us if one of them would occupy Rain. "What will we do?" Konan asked quietly. He hadn't known Leaf had occupied Rain once . but it's still morally questionable. It might no bring grand results. It also made sense why there was such a weight in the title of the Three Great Ninja." he said quietly." "That's what happened with Leaf. "The only way we could do any difference in this war would be if we managed to capture really important Shinobi from all three sides and seal them. or pull back depending on how the fight goes. but… it might be the only one we have. but for now it's all we can do. And the only way we could pull a trick like this off would be if we somehow managed to capture the Kages of all three nations. "We will continue as we have so far." Naruto looked between the grim faced leaders and sighed. but after all the fighting and evacuating they had done. we need to stay on this world. Nagato frowned. "There's nothing we can do.the amount of people Leaf lost makes them all wary." Yahiko snorted. "They'll tire out soon or send in more people. It would be bloodless victory and it would save many lives. Leaf occupied Rain for almost two years. If they pull back. Evacuate or protect civilians when ever we can. everyone against everyone without much restraint. He wished he had something he could add. the fight simply moved to a safe distance and continued with him and his foxes playing the part of disgruntled referee.and with his foxes becoming more and more famous. the more volunteers they got and among the fighters and the civilians. Also safer. Naruto. Usually when he arrived. who was now used to being dispatched quickly." 114 ." "Him. he was ready to go. That should make Inari-sama happy. In practiced manner. and though they did best they could. There had been plenty of times when he had been." The only time Naruto summoned Gizensha or Koukatsu.but then he hadn't heard of fox summons either before getting his contract. his biggest and most ferocious summons." Susumeru interrupted his thoughts. "Arashi. he summoned Hissori. all they could was either protect and prevent or pick up the pieces afterwards. now. yes. "Can you smell the other one? There should be another. "Makes me wonder why the dragon didn't guide you to a dog summon. he made two clones to gather nature's energy. "Chakra .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN When a word came about a summon battle taking place right next to a civilian town. Not a fox. didn't have to worry about that. and after donning his clone-summon scroll and his faithful umbrella. Of course all Shinobi healed in hospitals were eventually sealed in prison scrolls unless they wanted to switch sides . but peace is peace." "Now.Susumeru. He was usually more of a shield than anything else in Akatsuki.but at least they lived. "You and your lot are becoming a symbol of peace." "Lion?" Naruto asked with worry. Thankfully the further the war went. Yahiko had turned two of the many hideouts into field hospitals for both civilians and so called enemy Shinobi. or when his mere presence could put an end to bloodshed . immediately got ready. there were even few doctors. There were probably some four dozen summon types he had never even considered. He hadn't yet had to deal with a summon battle though. was an expert in battle Genjutsu and Naruto found that tricking people into submission by Genjutsu was much easier than fighting them to it. She was a yellow fox about half the size of Gizensha and Koukatsu. however." Naruto had answered with mock cheer. stored ten Prison Scrolls to his utility belt which had been modified to carry a lot of them. only the strongest and most headstrong dared to temp him to summon them. Worse he had interfered with had been a battle between two Ninjutsu masters . He was sent when ever the fights got too close to civilian settlements. though.giving him a ride he was soon racing hurriedly towards the town and hoping that he wouldn't get there too late. considering the no-kill policy of the Akatsuki. though. "What you need is a guard dog.he had needed to summon Zurin and Hissori both to put an end to it and keep the two from destroying a settlement near by. With one of his fastest foxes . and like so they managed to save the lives abandoned by others. What she was." Gizensha had muttered in annoyance the fourth time they merely sat and watch how other people fought amongst themselves. Yahiko immediately send Naruto to protect the town. a black female fox . Forced peace maybe. Naruto. When he wanted to put an end to a fight. The war was going and going. and not a particularly strong physical fighter.and a lion. I'm getting a little annoyed though. I can smell them. He hadn't heard of lion summons before . But at least that way they killed each other and not innocent bystanders. was when he needed to intimidate. "Kuchiyose no Jutsu!" he called out while pushing his chakra to the summoning. I think you ought to get ready to summon someone a lot bigger than me. either that or it used sound waves or something like that. Naruto got a feeling that it was a wind-type. "Right." she answered with a growl. the village came into his view . jumping over the screaming people who were so much in haste to run away from the gigantic summons that they didn't even notice the fox. His thumb already bleeding. as tall as Gizensha and a lot bulkier. Nagato and Konan. But the lion at least is a big one. A great brown lion. The smell fades into the background. He. there was a chance that he wouldn't need to fight at all.they usually came with Ninjutsu affinity and Hanzo himself was no pushover. Size alone wasn't good enough against Hanzo and his salamanders after all . If the man would want a battle and Naruto would have to fight him alone without the backing of Yahiko. It made him glad for the fox mask as it protected his eyes from the wind. Salamanders were amphibian. his hands flashed through the seals while Susumeru ran through the civilian village. "What is it now? Oh. "Hold on!" Naruto clutched onto her fur tightly as she reached ahead faster than any human or possibly any fox either could manage. The moment he saw Gamabunta.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "No. however. the sound making the ground shudder." "Hanzo?" Naruto asked sharply." If it was Hanzo. It was Gamabunta." "Shit. The moment they were on the other side. didn't get the chance to think too deeply into that before he saw the summon the lion was up against. Hanzo had a strange ways of fighting like that and it was hard to tell if the man wanted a fight or not. "Just get me there as quick as possible so that I can see who it is. The ground around him seemed to explode and he was almost thrown in to air as Gizensha appeared underneath him. Naruto jumped off the fox's back and slammed his hand to the ground." Susumeru growled and jumped ahead. calling for the one summon who was becoming his signature. x There was probably a more diplomatic way of interfering with a summon battle… but Naruto had never been particularly subtle person. he had it now." Naruto murmured. the reaction was immediately. "I think it's an amphibian. does this mean we're actually going to do battle this time?" 115 . Before he even finished the thought. I can't smell it. he would need to summon Gizensha and probably Zurin and on top of that he would need to summon a clone to get into the Sage mode.and behind it he could see the summons. And if it wasn't Hanzo… seeing what kind of summons he was dealing with would help. oh. right? "I'm not sure. If he hadn't yet caught the attention of the two summoners. though he still had to wonder if he would need to get goggles to handle Susumeru's speed. was roaring away. "Don't mind me. The great fox snarled with eagerness. Their meeting had only lasted few hours and Jiraiya had gotten pretty drunk towards the end. Being only tall enough for her back to reach Naruto's shoulder. The constant rain had sapped away some of the vividness of the red colour. It didn't look too impressed." he could hear the Sand-nin groaning. The only thing which was the same was the fox mask. though it wasn't a surprise. In the ground." "Who the hell are you?" Jiraiya called to him. "Nice to see you looking so well. you lot. "And here I thought we'd actually do something for a change. "Well… he fits the part. And even if he had remembered. I'm going to eat you!" 116 . "It's the Fox Sage. this is one guy I don't want to fight. "Hanzo's a pain in the ass! I work for Yahiko of Akatsuki!" "Yahiko of what?" "Akatsuki!" "You know.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Gizensha asked excitedly as he noticed the two other summons. Susumeru turned around and then jumped to the greater fox's back." "What." Naruto answered while jumping up to the skull adorning his signature summon's head. making it paler much to Naruto's dismay. crap. "Hey. From there he could see the other two summoners." "Oh. "Jiraiya-san. Arashi-san! What are you doing here?" "Hiya there. "You even bought me a drink and you've forgotten me already?" "It's Arashi-san from the Carnival!" Minato called with surprise. but he doubted it lessened his coolness factor that much. I work around here these days. Naruto had changed clothes since . Minato was with him. really?" Gizensha muttered with disappointment. isn't it?" "Work for Hidden Rain? In your bleeding dreams!" Naruto answered." "Hopefully not. Minato-kun!" Naruto waved at him.you're the guy who kept stalking us with the clones? Really? I didn't know you could summon! You work for Hidden Rain now. turning his deep green eyes on Naruto. "Hello to you too!" Naruto waved happily while curious Susumeru climbed to Gizensha's head as well to see what was going to happen. Naruto had to take support from the ram skull's horns to stay steady when the black female pushed against him. she was still small enough for Gizensha not to even notice it. the summoner of the lion was a Sand-nin. Not surprising if it really did have a wind affinity. but Naruto was mildly shocked to see that Jiraiya wasn't alone. or something?" Jiraiya asked with tone of confusion in his yelling. as a peace keeper of sort. "I could use a battle right about now. I'm just here to make sure you don't do anything to the village. I'm heartbroken!" Naruto answered. if you keep yelling next to my goddamned ear. and even it had changed. By the looks of the wardrobe and the style of head gear. "Aw. holding his hands around his mouth to make the voice carry over the rain and the distance. that's him?" the lion asked curiously. from the Carnival ." "Arashi." the enormous summon said rather lamely. "That's a bit of an upgrade from working as the bodyguard in a freak show. Arashi. The toad's summoner wasn't a surprise.and gotten rid of a very ugly wig. now can I? And Susumeru. "Are you two going to try and kill each other?" he asked from Jiraiya and the Sand-nin while Susumeru rolled her eyes and settled down beside him to listen. the glow of fire and cut of wind disturbing the usual patterns of the rain and making the air around them turn smoky and misty. "Because I would prefer you'd put a little bit distance between yourself and the village. I'm better with Earth Release. pointing a little further away from the settlement. Back when he and Jiraiya had been travelling and yelling at each other all the time. Arashi-san." Susumeru agreed. I'll get right back to you once I've turned this Sand idiot into pile of glass!" "Who are you going to turn into what. "Hold that thought. you slime brained toad -" the Sand-nin's words where drowned into the sound of Jiraiya's and Minato's combined fire technique and the fight was on again. you any good with water techniques?" "Not really. "Interesting policies you got!" Jiraiya called to him. and the cutting winds issued from its mouth came dangerously close to the village. like he once would've. Gamabunta with his knife and the lion with claws and teeth.which was big enough for him to use as a cave." Naruto said. sorry. you can go if you want to. From their heads their respective summoners threw Ninjutsu at each other. he started to work." Naruto said as the battle raged on. 117 . This reminded him of the old times .the future old times. or something." the fox answered. Can you do it or do I need to summon Zurui?" "I think can manage one little wall. "Are you two going to fight or something." He drew a deep breath and continued yelling. "Why?" "I was thinking we could make ice wall between those two and the village. because I wouldn't mind watching you two idiots killing each other!" the Sand-nin called at them in mild irritation. You're creeping out the villagers!" "No can do . "You nancy can't handle a little hole in the ground?" "It's the size of the goddamned village!" Naruto grinned. "Just hold it down for a moment. "I concur. but now he was a little more stable and could enjoy it like he should. wincing a little. "No killing. "Time to do my thing. her ears held back against her head.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Gizensha growled at him. he had been still too out of it to appreciate the experience to the fullest. "Sorry. The Lion drew a deep breath and with a roar split the fire in half and then the two summons were at each other. Gamabunta was trying to keep the fight away from the village but the Lion didn't seem to particularly care where it was roaring. "The village isn't that big!" he called back cheerfully. Gizensha. The last time they had met.there's a ravine next to this place!" Jiraiya answered. "Alright. but earth works probably better. Akatsuki policy!" Naruto answered happily. Or. absently petting the said ear ." the fox grumbled and with Naruto and curious Susumeru watching. This might take a while and I can't exactly go over there. " "I'd appreciate it. Not exactly a subtle secret technique. but it had caught Jiraiya just in time to prevent him landing a killing blow on the Sand summoner." he tilted his head as Minato rummaged through his pouches. They're not yet skilled enough to manage. the Akatsuki. Me and Minato. "What kind of Ninja has summons and puppetry?" "A versatile one. who had decided to stick around to offer Naruto a lift back to the Akatsuki hideout probably because she was curious about what would follow. "You really the same guy we met in the Carnival almost a year back? How the hell did you end up here? How do you go from working in a Carnival to this? Whatever it is you're doing right now. reaching his free hand up to scratch along Susumeru's throat. but despite the cheerful argument of earlier. As the wounded Sand lion hurriedly carried away its summoner. we have a secret mission." "We'll know soon enough. are the best I think I could ever hope to find." Naruto shrugged." the white haired man muttered and looked up to him suspiciously. before glancing at Susumeru who was leaning in to have a look.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN x The fight ended with Jiraiya and Minato victorious and Naruto successfully preventing the village from getting into danger. There were few cuts here and there. Jiraiya's wound certainly needed something to stop the bleeding. "Damn Sand-nin and their damned puppetry…" Jiraiya was grumbling while undressing his mesh shirt. which he had been controlling with chakra strings. and with the fever I got those damn drugs they better work now. even if they weren't severe otherwise. The injury had been issued by a pair of extra arms the Sand-nin had been hiding under his cloak. "What are you two doing here? And where's the rest of your team? I didn't think they sent incomplete teams to the front lines . crouching down beside the two Leaf-nin. Chougou's usually the one carrying our medical supplies. I hope?" "Tsunade's injected me with half million counter poisons. some old and some new. though. reaching towards his hip." Naruto answered while holding his umbrella up so that less injured Minato could inspect Jiraiya's wound. but the worse one was the gash along his stomach. they're still Genin so it's not safe to have them here. Naruto made his way to the two Leaf-nin with Susumeru. a little amused about how grumpy the man was acting. Hanzo's doing. there are worse titles to have. "I can give you some if you don't have any. that one. or find new people to answer to. "Since I came here. I think I'm all out. "Since when?" Naruto shrugged.especially ones with under trained members. "I don't think it has poison in it. "You looking for bandages?" he asked." Jiraiya muttered and looked at Naruto. The Fox Sage?" he asked." the blonde boy answered. Yahiko and his group. 118 . the fight had been a serious one and neither Jiraiya nor Minato came out unscathed." he grinned. Gamabunta carefully placed bleeding Jiraiya down so that Minato could tend to a particularly deep wound the man had gotten to the side of his stomach. After dismissing bored Gizensha." "I'm not that under trained." Minato grumbled while peering at Jiraiya's wound. "No poison. goddamnit. "So." "People like me either become civilians. "Jojoni and Chougou are back at the Leaf. Not that I mind. "So they haven't felt any hunger or anything. They were cuts and bruises mostly. "We've been trying to break the seals for weeks now without much luck. So far I've sealed at least twenty Leaf Shinobi. glancing at Susumeru. "I did." "So." Naruto shrugged. Who knows how many the others have sealed. They will be in the exact same state they were when they were sealed. He spread it to the moist ground beside Jiraiya and after biting his thumb so that it bled. Eventually. "Suck it up. "It's not meant to be. you're the one behind those Prison Scrolls?" Jiraiya asked." Naruto snorted while watching the pair of them." the boy answered before turning to inspect his own wounds.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Nodding." "What's the alternative?" Minato asked worriedly. he released the storage seal. That's why it beats it. "Once the war is over. Who made it?" Naruto hesitated. We never figured out another plan since this one works pretty well for us. "I don't know. it will be as if nothing had happened for them. not unless you destroy the scrolls. watching how Minato disinfected Jiraiya's wound and then went about bandaging it. "Use whatever you need. You have all the finesse of a butcher." Jiraiya commented." the Fox Sage answered. narrowing his eyes." the Toad Sage whined to his student. "Once the people in the scrolls are released. "Ow. Inside the scrolls they are like sealed out of time itself. For us each sealed person is a person saved. Naruto reached for his own pouch and brought out one of his few storage scrolls. x 119 . it's an accomplishment to create a seal like that." he said and quickly Minato reached for the antiseptics." Naruto shrugged. Me and the rest of Akatsuki. "It's an easy way of make people stop fighting and make sure that they don't continue fighting the moment we turn to look the other way. You will get your people back. "I suppose one could see it like that. They won't be returning to the battle fields when they're sealed . nor are they in danger of being killed. Well." he said. though." the fox sage answered." "And while they're in the seals. if you sealed someone now and then released them ten years later. "Mostly I just interfere with the fighting." he then said and shrugged. but it is a Prison Scroll." "Wait. Jiraiya-sensei.they're not going to kill anymore people. wincing as Minato tightened the bandages and then tied them up." "Still. You've probably seen our handiwork. Beats the alternative. It's not exactly comfortable way of spending time. "You're pretty well stocked. they're fine?" Jiraiya asked dubiously. "Possibly. "Lately I've spend lot of time collecting wounded from battle fields. they'd be the exact same age?" Jiraiya asked thoughtfully. Minato. A full med-kit appeared in curl of chakra smoke. What is up with that anyway? Why make a seal like that? It's like you're holding them hostage. It helps to have good first-aid kit at hand. the keys for releasing the people in Prison Scrolls will be released. "So this time I brought some with us. pile some rocks around it so that it isn't so visible from afar…" Naruto helped and soon they had a makeshift stove piled around the camp fire. They looked rather like forests made of stone in a way and the native of Fire Country inside him was really missing woods." the Fox Sage offered while Jiraiya carefully pulled his heavy metal mesh shirt on again. looking bewildered "You looked like a drenched dog. "Fuuton. The Fox Sage frowned. you do Fuuinjutsu." "The last time I was here. you do summoning. You can take shelter from the rain under them. Jiraiya-san. Naruto and Minato hoisted him up to Susumeru's back after which Naruto lead the group towards the rock formations which he was starting to call rockforests in his head.Minato had made the fire right next to Jiraiya. "Better?" "Well. Arashi-san?" he asked a little wistfully. Naruto turned to the other options and went through a series of hand seals before lifting the tiger-seal to his lips while taking a deep breath. He wasn't shivering anymore. "Besides no one here exactly welcomes Shinobi from foreign countries. Arashi-san?" the man then asked. it was a pain trying to find firewood." the man muttered." Jiraiya answered while reaching for his vest and pulling on with a pained grimace. at least I'm not as wet. Shaking his head. Minato. his long white hair whipping about him in the wind Naruto had created. looking a bit disturbed and amused about him using a Fuuton jutsu like a hair-dryer." he looked around. though. Naruto helped Jiraiya down from Susumeru's back while Minato got some firewood from a storage scroll and started to make a fire. not after you almost trashed it. Nanpuu no Jutsu. "Susumeru can't carry all of us. Naruto looked over Jiraiya." Naruto answered cheerfully and glanced over the man." Jiraiya answered. it's just a cut. so it worked out for him. turning wide eyes at him.and chance to get out of this goddamned rain. The rain had washed away all the blood so he looked disturbingly undamaged for the amount of damage he had really taken. "I don't think so. "But I could use a breather .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "So. After they had found a clean spot inside the rock-forest." Despite Jiraiya's objections. but she can carry you. I couldn't help it. "You're carrying firewood in a scroll?" Naruto asked with mild amusement while helping Jiraiya sit down with his back against a relatively smooth rock.from the cold or from the blood loss. "I think there's one of those weird local rock formations near by. and 120 . "Weird thing to use a storage scroll. "So. do you have a camp site or something? I could give you a lift. While Minato went about making something for his teacher to eat like the good little student he was. "What the hell are you doing. Jiraiya sputtered with surprise. Jiraiya-san. but he was already as close as he would get without burning ." he murmured and blew out a warm breeze to dry the man's clothes as well as he could." Naruto said a little apologetically while standing up. only now noticing that Jiraiya was shivering slightly . You don't suppose they'd welcome us in the village. At first Naruto thought they ought to move the man closer to the fire. And I don't think you ought to be walking too much just yet. not after what you've done to this place. just in case." "I'm not that badly wounded. and that is when is the war going to end.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN you're apparently Fuuton adept. It wasn't just from the fight . if you don't mind me saying this." "And we're just supposed to trust you not to stab us in the back?" Jiraiya asked. you could be after some secret information we might have. lifting a single eyebrow at him while Minato glanced up from the food he was making worriedly. that was true. And the fact that Jiraiya was injured certainly wasn't going to make him leave any faster. Naruto only barely managed to hold back a laugh. I could stab you in the front and you wouldn't be able to do much about it. "Anything else you might like to know?" Jiraiya gave him a look and then laughed dryly. "You're going to stay here?" Jiraiya asked. I can always summon you again if I need you. unless something comes up. Naruto shrugged. "And I would've already done it." 121 . Though don't you need a ride on your way back?" "I'm going to stay here for the night and I think can manage the return trip on foot. but he could see they were tired." Naruto answered. "Give my regards to Inari-sama when you report to him and if you see Kuda. "Still. he supposed." Naruto scratched the back of his head. my favourite colour is orange. "Alright. leaning back. "The only information Akatsuki is after is the answer to a single question. "You can go. tilting his head. There was no way he was going to let the chance of finding out how Leaf was doing. bored now that nothing was happening. I'm growing a liking towards kitsune udon and will never ever say no to a warm bowl of ramen. tell me I might need his services soon for pretty a long period of time and he might want to prepare for it. walks in the sunset. "Right. Jiraiya-san. "But I would first need to be after some information and then I would need to know that you specifically have it. long before Minato-kun got the chance to tend to your wounds. I wouldn't need to be sneaky about it. "And." He glanced at Jiraiya and then at Minato." "Good point." he answered." Naruto said and watched the fox nod and then vanish in whirl of smoke. They were holding up a pretty strong front. And it's been a while since I saw a friendly face of someone other than the guys in the gang. stroking the chin of his mask ponderously. Or do you think I randomly help all foreign Shinobi I encounter in hopes of pickpocketing their national secrets?" he asked and shook his head." he murmured. if you want to." "Just serving a different carnival. "If I were going to harm you. as if serious. I'm not in hurry to get back. So it's alright.they had probably been travelling before it. stretching his arms. "You're the carnival mystic. Well." he said. What else?" "I like training. "It's been a slow week. "You get eventually tired seeing same people day in and day out. And I don't think anyone has the answer. I don't think they will need me back that soon." the white haired man grumbled. The way you are." he said to the black fox." Naruto grinned and then looked up to Susumeru who." "Kuda?" she asked and nodded. You're not exactly in best state at the moment. was stretching. you two look like you need someone to watch over you for the night. but because most of what had happened at that village was probably 122 . She's Jiraiya-sensei's former team mate . She was in charge of combating the Sand poisons…" the boy trailed away. as if thinking Naruto wouldn't answer. and very rarely have they been wars Rain itself was part of. It was…" he swallowed before continuing. It was somewhat awkward just sitting there with his painfully young not-quite father." Minato gave him a thoughtful look before turning his eyes to the fire. grateful of the mask for hiding it. "There's not much to say. and when we do fight it's always by using non-lethal means. I thought I was prepared for it.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 13 – SOME ADVICE After the Leaf-nin had eaten their meagre rations. who could do with some peace and quiet. Jiraiya-sensei and I were working as back up for Tsunade-san when she was stationed at the border. Suna organised a trap for us. but that was fine with him. but we don't fight for any other reason but to protect and save lives. Minato and Naruto made Jiraiya as comfortable as possible to let the man get the best rest he could hope to get in such circumstances. "There was a village. the fighting would eventually end… or to something to that manner. They started it in hopes that if they convinced enough people to stop fighting. Naruto had a feeling that the boy would only last for so long before going out like a candle. Despite Naruto's assurances that he was not an enemy for them. "No. over the exhausted form of their teacher." Naruto gave him a slightly uncomfortable look. Most of what we do is pretty open faced. "Could you tell me more about the Akatsuki. At first." Naruto shrugged. Arashi-san?" Minato eventually broke the silence a little hesitatingly. his blue eyes turning darker as he frowned. not far from the border." Naruto frowned at him before realising that the faltering story wasn't so bad because Minato was a bad story teller . but it's still a difference." "So you… fight for peace? Isn't that a little counterproductive?" Minato asked. But lot… lot of River Country's civilians died. "Yeah. to try and find peace in this place…" He looked past the rocky tree-like formations and to the open plains where the rain poured ceaselessly down." Naruto shrugged but leaned back. "It's… not like I thought it would be. that the mission was success. but… but I wasn't. Minato seemed intent on holding vigil despite the fatigue which was making his eyelids droop. "It's a small difference. "Maybe. "This country's been ravaged by war after another. long before I joined it." he murmured. "This here wasn't your first?" he asked.a medic-nin. nodding to the direction of the village where the summons battle had been held during the day. "Later they said that we did a good job. it was just people of similar mind banding up together. wondering how to tell the tale of the odd organisation he was now part of. maybe." he said quietly. I'm a Chuunin after all. and that… that we succeeded. I figure. So there are more than a few people here who are sick of it. "The Akatsuki was started by Yahiko and his two friends some years back. in the Land of River. pulling his knees up and wrapping his arms around his legs. "I've never been on a battle field of a war before the cease fire ended. And then there was the fact that though he had not killed anyone. He didn't either. before turning his eyes back to the fire. "What I mean is that it doesn't matter if I never kill another person during my life. for suicidally throwing himself in the way of that killing blow? Or the enemy-nin." "But someone still died at another's hand. staring up to the ceiling of their rough shelter. some things that were lost in those ruins couldn't be. in battle between my sensei and the enemy-nin. I have more than enough blood on my hands even if I didn't spill it myself. for impacting such loyalty to him that he'd die for him without blinking an eye? Or was it our employer for hiring us in the first place? Or the employer of the enemy-nin. My sensei landed the killing blow. Some of them… in direct result of his actions. "But not killing anyone alone doesn't matter. "Success is a matter of opinion." "Is that why you joined the Akatsuki?" the boy asked. "As is defeat. People who would've been saved if only Naruto had been able to stop his team mate from deserting Leaf. 123 . "I've never killed a single human being. for not being able to stop it? My friend himself." He thought of the Land of the Waves and how the mission had been called success when he had never stopped mourning it." Naruto answered without much pride." he said. who had ordered them to kill our charge?" Minato frowned. but during that mission I befriended the student of an enemy-nin who was after the life of our employer… Later. Mostly because he knew he had never lacked the ability to do so though his morals had always fought back. His defeat of Pain could be called a success too." Naruto answered. but I've never figured out who was to blame for that. but entire Leaf had been brought to ruin before it and even if a village could be rebuilt. "It's been years since. for killing my friend? Myself. then I'm just as guilty as anyone. whatever that means. turning his eyes to the fire as well.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN classified. people had died nonetheless. Naruto grinned mirthlessly behind his mask. What I think is… what makes you guilty is knowing and still doing nothing. "My sensei. if the situation keeps killing them around me. "The first real mission I had was a bodyguard duty. He thought of Sasuke and how he had failed over and over again. Like Kazuku." "It doesn't?" Naruto shrugged and was quiet for a moment before speaking again. really. whom Kakashi had been able to kill only because Naruto had taken out most of his hearts with the first crude version of the Rasenshuriken. he had never been unable to. "Does that mean that I'm guilty for the death of those civilians?" "If there was absolutely nothing you could do differently… who knows. "If I don't try and change the situation." Naruto shrugged his shoulders and thought of Sasuke and the people who had died at his hand." he said after a moment of thought. "I'm not a saint and I have no moral high ground to stand on." He leaned back until he fell flat on his back on the rocky ground. his teacher. "In that sort of situation… I don't know if anyone can be blamed. forever lost… "Have you ever… killed civilians?" Minato asked softly. I won't go into the details because they wouldn't really mean much to you. because it was a twisted thought. my friend died to protect his teacher. Precious memories and mementos. And just as guiltless." Minato gave him a strange look and shook his head to show that he didn't understand what did he mean." The blonde boy looked thoughtfully at him. but as what he really was. but maybe could've been still counted for it. next century… they will all be different somehow. confused "Never mind. Nagato and Konan didn't need him.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Naruto frowned. Naruto had realised it a while ago." He knew it for a fact. not the Jinchuuriki. At this point or any other point is just the matter of which way it will change. Naruto chuckled to himself. How could it be that there was one person so interwoven into the lives of so many great individuals? Just a lucky coincidence? Naruto frowned and thought about the prophesy. Now it came to him and it was simple. next decade. hair messy from being dried too quickly. but hadn't really thought about it too hard. but the nobody. But despite that." he murmured. "It's inevitable in a way. Sarutobi Hiruzen. because Yahiko was right. not the future Hokage. Not the Rinnegan user. Coincidence… probably not. he had trained with a Hokage and he trained a Hokage himself. Then he turned to look at Jiraiya. they certainly weren't as weak as he often found himself thinking they were. gaining a confused look from Minato. Yahiko was closest to answering the question Naruto himself hadn't been able to answer with anything better than quoting like a parrot. Yahiko the orphan. Suddenly he wasn't sure if it was Nagato who was the student Jiraiya's prophesy had spoken of. Tsunade and Orochimaru. next week. the remake of the Three Legendary Ninja… And Naruto himself with his father and his tenant and his very name… "Do you think that the world can be changed. as most of that had yet to happen. He had trained Minato too. clothes worn and dirty from travelling." Naruto answered. "Stuff of legends. staring at the rocky formations above him. The world will change. He hadn't really given any thought as to why he stayed. Or he would. He just was. or why he was perfectly comfortable in the position he was. Yahiko and Konan. that could've been the lucky coincidence of location and time. Arashi-san?" Minato asked. A follower. He had became first human Sage since the Sage of Six Paths himself. Maybe it was Yahiko. "I don't believe that a change can be stopped. no longer as a protector or some sort of weird guardian. Yahiko and Konan… that was stretching the coincidence a little. but he had sown it like seeds and watched the forest grow all around him. "if there is an answer. he certainly didn't look like much. "What is?" Minato asked. Nagato. but he was making the place and the way to get to there with his own two hands. just thinking out loud. Not just that. Sasuke and Sakura. was already getting there. instead of saying he'd eventually get there if there was a place get to. startling Naruto out of his thoughts and then forcing him to wonder what he was on about." he said slowly." 124 . who had taught Naruto." Yahiko. He had trained Nagato. "Tomorrow." Yahiko. "No. But Minato? Not to mention about the fact that it all stretched there. And he had trained Naruto. the guilt of not doing anything. With the harsh lesson of betrayal and the fragility of trust taught and internalised. They didn't need him to look after their backs. Bruises under his eyes and along his neck. Minato teaching Kakashi. Naruto hung around. He followed. Jiraiya himself might've never grasped that sort of greatness that came from leading people. I'll find it. But Jiraiya had been trained by a Hokage. Then he realised that the boy was still thinking about the previous subject of conversation." Naruto answered. "But I think that's why I stay with them. " he said. Maybe one person can save another. if time is a chain of dominos. for a moment mourning that he had never known Namikaze Minato. I guess. "But anyway. "Or maybe I'm just trying to show off." Minato muttered with a frown. Right?" The boy gave him a frown before sighing. "That's exactly what is like. Or maybe one person can change one other person. And then another in the reach of that…" "I think we lost the gist of this metaphor." he muttered a little mirthlessly and after making sure that Jiraiya and Minato were both comfortable. maybe it will lead to a massacre. not now that he knew that being in a way alone in his father's presence made him think things too deeply. dry and warm. Of course." he said a little dubiously. maybe to a war. looking a bit puzzled. but something about Namikaze Minato made Naruto think entirely too much. you can't really tell what kind of difference you make until after the fact. fell asleep." he answered. x Minato eventually got too tired for further conversation and eventually. The problem is." he said." Naruto didn't know whether or not he was supposed to laugh at the idea of playing a wise man to his own brilliant soon-to-be father. "That's the simplest way of putting the theory of the spiral of hatred.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "And it really is… up to us?" the boy asked with mild wonder. Arashi-san." Naruto laughed. "Well. "You make a poor wise man. one person can make a huge difference. Stand watch so that Jiraiya could have his healing rest.those people will kill that one person and then those who loved that one will seek revenge… and on it goes." Naruto said. "I mean… what can one person do?" "One person can kill another. "You make it sound like time is a chain of dominos and future is the matter of where and how the dominos fall." he finally offered with a laugh. Naruto chuckled. "One Domino alone can't do anything. though. That was what he was supposed to do. Maybe it was the whole concept of his dead father as a child sitting by him without any knowledge of the future that would maybe now never come to pass. "I'm not sure if there was one to begin with. and then make the friends of that person seek revenge . It all starts small." he turned to face the boy. "But I think you're getting better at being a mystic. "That seems a bit flimsy. he headed to the edge of the rock-forest. now you know better than to ask my opinion. to watch and listen to the rain. There has to be another domino within reach. making a circling motion with his hand. It falls over and that's it for that. and then that person will do the same for someone else. while Naruto tended to the fire. Leaving them by the fire. others tip others over. with little chain reactions going all over the place. leaning his elbow to the ground and his head to his palm. 125 . anyway. it is actually more like… entire courtyard of them. But it works the other way around too. "That's it. All you can really do is your best. who knew what he had been like in the future. and that will lead to a chain of changes… good ones or bad ones…" Minato glanced at him. If his father was this interesting as a kid. Naruto didn't mind. he stood up. Some of them never fall. The bulk of Itachi for one. Though…" he considered it for a moment. Frowning. Because difference could be and had to be made. as had Yahiko's and Konan's and Akatsuki's and most probably the whole of Rain's. before summoning forth a clone who was just as pensive as he was. Just how many people had Orochimaru's killed? Not just by cutting them down. for a moment teetering on the thin edge between the Most Surprising Ninja of Leaf and the Fox Sage of Rain. "The Pervert I mean. "That we need to stop. Sasuke's and Sakura's too as they had led him to be the person he was. So many trails of fate leading into single moment and person. or maybe it was the gloominess of the never ending rain in the night. He won't even be born for another ten years or so. And the long complicated. Orochimaru was the start and end of so many chains. His frown darkened as he thought of Yamato-shishou. And Madara was there too. Maybe it was the introspective mood Minato had somehow brought up." he said forcefully." the clone agreed. What kind of situation and timeline led a person to this sort of place in time? Just how many dominos had to fall in the peculiar way they did for him to end up specifically in this place in this time? What was needed the chains of his own past. Nagato's chains of fate had already changed. but he couldn't be sure until he actually saw it. him and the fifty nine infants who had died in the experiment to recreate the First and Founding Hokage's Mokuton ability. He shuddered and shook his head. there were bunch to other chains to change… or break. but Naruto suddenly realised the scope of the moment and that he was watching over a pair of dead men. Naruto brought his hands up and formed the hand seal of Kage Bunshin. "There's him too. which encompassed Minato's and Jiraiya's and pretty much all of Leaf's. All tying in a knot the moment the Kyuubi had faded to red sky and ocean and Naruto had waited to die. blood splattered chains of Nagato and Akatsuki. trying to figure out how to protect it all and make a difference." he said. trying to get the thought to leave him.at Jiraiya and Minato. The latter won and he laughed again. and that was another reason to stay. "Rain's already been changed… for better. And Orochimaru. "There's lot of stuff we can change." Naruto frowned. But in the same time in those chains of fate laid all the reason why he stood there. crouching to the wet ground and staring at the rain for a moment before turning to look over his shoulder . But there are lot of other things we need to think about. he hoped. He had talked about guilty situations and domino timelines with his own dead father who was a child.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN so that Minato could regain his strength. Especially since it was the sort of thing that led people to think that they were special and somehow greater than other people and Naruto knew better than most how dangerous that sort of thoughts were. somewhere. nodding. but in experiments and schemes of which Naruto knew nothing about.and all those which would never fall because Itachi had butchered his family. A wave of nauseous nostalgia and morbid humour washed over him and he let out a choked chuckle. "That's not exactly an urgent issue. However." 126 . He hadn't thought about that. so that the two of them could continue their secret mission to Leaf in the morning with as good condition as they could manage in the situation they were in. it was terrifying. at the edge of rain. isn't there?" Naruto asked. I hope." "Yeah. Then all the chains of dominos that had collapsed behind Itachi . To the control of Rain. "That. All Naruto had left to do was to see where the chains led. " "Better wait until things are resolved here and the war is over. run into Madara probably. making him turn around to see that the Toad Sage was trying to sit up. x Jiraiya woke up few hours into the night. Orochimaru had left Akatsuki before Madara had started to really make his moves within it. but the possibility those two really banding up together was still rather unnerving. when the man's sleepy groan roused the his attention. "Brat. "With Akatsuki changed it would be a bit dangerous to let him run about on his own anyway. who was fast asleep not far from him. That left First. "Agreed. trying to get them to burn brighter. "You should rest. "Let's stop that from happening if we can. They didn't select the Hokage right away so they might've not selected the Mizukage immediately either. "He was probably the Second. "There isn't that much of a hurry so we can see Yahiko to the throne of Hidden Rain. "Don't blame him for not keeping vigil. That had once been his title. Sadly." Naruto mused. turning to face the rain again before undressing his fox mask and rubbing his eyes. He was just coaxing the flames." the clone mused." Naruto murmured." he said. "But thinking of Madara…" They fell into silence." "They're not going to heal during one night. "We won't know unless we check it out either way. stretching. Hidden Mist was founded around the same time as Hidden Leaf. Or at least Hanzo out of it. as he had been a Jinchuuriki. but making some sort of plan wouldn't hurt." Jiraiya answered with a groan. there was that. "Give your wounds the chance to heal. Jiraiya-san." Naruto shuddered. He glanced around and spotted Minato." he said. Naruto had avoided thinking about him because he had known that there was little he could do. Second and Third. thought the memory was distant and he couldn't recall which Mizukage Madara had been. because that one was a woman. turning his eyes to the fire and pocking the logs with a stick to get them into a better position. wasn't it? Madara was at Leaf during that time so he couldn't have been the first… right?" "Who knows." he murmured fondly. sometime after Naruto had send his clone to patrol so that he could tend to the fire. 127 . Not the Fifth. and Naruto turned his eyes away at the sting of jealousy he suddenly felt. and not the Fourth. wasn't he?" "Yeah. Who knows what he'd do. rubbing his stomach. The man snorted softly." Naruto said. "He was the Mizukage once. "Yeah." he said. Madara. the beginning and the end of it all." the clone suggested. He was tired." he agreed. "We might get some information about him if we go to Water country. and from what he had gathered Madara hadn't thought much of Orochimaru in general.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN The clone had seemed to be thinking along the same lines and nodded with a dark expression. he had no idea where Madara was currently or what he was doing." The clone snorted. " "After losing your village you chose to give your alliance to small no-name gang in a tiny 128 ." The conversation stalled there as Naruto wondered how to deal with the man this time.he's been working too hard lately anyway. "And the leader's name is Yahiko. pointing at his backpack. The other snorted. For a moment there I thought you were a complete loony. Should've brought some sake with me. retrieving a packet of tobacco before taking out his pipe as well. There was a look of relief in Jiraiya's face as he breathed in the smoke. "You told me about them. It seemed like the best place for me. before you ask. Let him sleep . I think I can trust you not to do it in the future either. You mind handing me that?" he asked.and how did you find about them for that matter?" Naruto hesitated and then smiled. quickly inhaling the smoke again and breathing out slowly. hm." the elder Shinobi answered and slowly sat up. "So. More than that. Akatsuki." he answered while crossing his feet comfortably and staring at the fire. "Sounds like interesting thing to be a part of. but he couldn't say that." Naruto murmured while reaching and taking out a stick from the fire. that would've been even nicer. "They and Yahiko-san are the three leaders of Akatsuki. "Mind giving me a light too?" "I have a sudden feeling that you're one bossy patient every time you get injured. they're powerful. I consider the three of them a packet deal. "Better?" the Fox Sage asked a little amusedly. Then he gave Naruto a look of consideration. I suppose your non-kill policy and the fact that you showed up to protect the village makes sense. huh?" "That's what they named the gang. And growing in influence with each passing day with this war going around. Naruto nodded. He handed it to the man who quickly used it to light his tobacco. That he'd have best chance of changing the future from Rain. "And since you haven't stabbed either of us yet. then. Yahiko-san is the main leader. "A organisation run by those three. shaking his head. and Konan-san and Nagato-san are the seconds but since they do most things together." the man answered. "Much better. I figured that I'd…" he trailed away." "I suppose. though. grimacing with pain. "Or maybe it should be called organisation now…?" Jiraiya frowned. "How come you're suddenly with them? Why did you choose them of all people ." "Who says I'm not?" Naruto grinned. Quickly the man rummaged through it. This time however he was very keenly aware of the world around him and what this sort of conversations could make happen. In practiced fashion he readied the pipe before turning his eyes the fire. Well." Naruto answered with a shrug. Do you know anyone named Konan or Nagato. by any chance?" Jiraiya finally asked. "They are well. He coughed awkwardly.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "I don't mind. The last time he had been alone with Jiraiya. "That I'd fit in. Naruto reached for it and lifted it to Jiraiya's side. he had still been just slightly loopy and had been able to handle the meeting in some what casual manner. He had already said entirely too much to Minato. so he didn't dare to say anything. The gang already has a lot of members and even more protégés…" he trailed away thoughtfully. and I'm sorry I fell asleep in middle of our conversation. "I know what you mean. Minato?" "Just about. "Yeah. shaking his head. "I imagine summons with fur don't care for it much." Jiraiya said in the morning after he and his student had eaten and they were getting ready to continue their mission. Gizensha no longer whined about it. Lucky me. I might be something of a bother." the boy answered after securing the strap holding one of his kunai pouches more securely around his thigh. and kicking the ashes apart." Naruto rolled his eyes." Naruto thought about it for a moment and nodded.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN land. who was done with concealing their camp site. They're happy being summoned in rain. "I used to live here for three years once upon a time . The rain I could handle. "Underneath of the underneath and all that." x "I suppose you will go back to Akatsuki now. He was staring outside the rock-forest and to the rain. before Jiraiya spoke again. I've been trying to avoid this place since . I could follow you around. you carnival people.when I was training those kids. but being rained on every time I summon them…" He winced a little. it is. no need to be a smartass about it…" Jiraiya muttered. rub it in. why don't you." he grinned. "Well. Jiraiya snorted in agreement." Naruto answered while scattering the stones they had used to shelter the fire.three years of being constantly rained on was enough for me." Naruto laughed. "You managed to find a very gloomy place to live. "Is it better?" he asked." 129 ." he murmured before bringing his pipe to his lips. though. I guess." "Of course there is another reason. I mean. But my reasons are my own. but he had complained. "Being here. The lion didn't seem too happy about being summoned into pouring rain either. the gang…" "Alright. There was a moment of somewhat comfortable silence. "There ought to have been another reason. too. I have toads. "You ready to go. shaking his head while lifting his backpack to his shoulders. making the white haired man grin at him. probably having grown either accustomed or too tired of arguing against something Naruto couldn't change. "Oh. but I think they prefer to have me around. Yeah. Arashi-san. shaking his head." Jiraiya snorted." The other sighed. and I don't want to sound all self centred. they don't much care about there being no plants. The foxes. but I imagine you being on secret mission and all. Loudly." Jiraiya stated flatly." Naruto laughed. I imagine they wouldn't make much sense to you anyway. alright. very unlikely to survive. There are always other reasons. And very often. He looked up to Naruto. but the fact that nothing grows here is kind of starting to get to me. "Thank you for watching over us. Jiraiyasan. I'll say that. "There is also the matter of there being a war and all. "Cryptic lot. after all. 130 . squeezing Naruto's hand a little stronger before turning. they won't leave any survivors to tell about them. thinking about Yoaruki and his other badly maimed students. shaking his head. And if you want to be really careful. Securing conquered territory and all. Naruto clasped it and shook. "Take care. "It was my pleasure." With a sigh he shook his head and turned to face Naruto." Jiraiya snorted. Most are just for surveillance and intimidation. but they eat just about anything. Times like these make me regret not having avian summon. Still. try not to kill anyone?" The Toad Sage chuckled softly. so…" "Bit hard to avoid water. looking at the heavy rain with grim amusement. but I'll try. we haven't heard about it. "I can't promise anything." he said. Minato-kun. but he seemed to be taking the warnings seriously. He was better off not knowing. But if I were you. "I don't know where you're going or why and that's probably for the best. "So. There are still the remains of the old fields. but with Hanzo being what he is. So he probably won't set traps for his enemies before they will bring bigger forces into the country. "Further out they wouldn't be too useful. avoid sources of water altogether. there's rumours going about that the southern border villages will fall victim to Sand poisons soon. offering his hand." he said. The Fox Sage sighed. around here. Also. before shaking his head. For a moment Naruto watched the rain where their shapes turned blurry and eventually vanished." Naruto waved his hand. "I would bet on Hanzo having set some around Hidden Rain at least. "Thanks." he said." he added before turning to Jiraiya. If Hanzo's made new ones. avoid the water and avoid the ground.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Never mind. not with all sides being so careful. and soon the two Leaf-Shinobi headed to the rain and to whatever mission they had ahead of them. "The only way anyone survives those fields to tell the tale is when the fields are old and the most explosives either have been already triggered and grown generally too weak to kill. "Have they set any minefields yet?" "If they have." he said little sadly. we wouldn't hear about it." Naruto muttered and glared at the rain. "And. Hanzo has released a clutch salamander larvae on the lakes. it probably wouldn't hurt to be careful. I would avoid most or the northern villages and tread very carefully around the southern rivers." Yoaruki had been lucky to have only lost his feet in a field like that." Jiraiya grimaced and nodded. just a little hopeful request from Akatsuki. That was it for goodbyes. a bit embarrassed to be thanked and apologised by his own father for something so simple. Barrier like the one Hanzo put up needs at least few dozen connective points and the Fuuinjutsu itself… it's impossible to know what sort of seals Hanzo used. Back forth. the war had just continued on. 131 . Sand had noticed and retaliated. it wasn't anything good. The longer it gone on. breaking the ceasefire. Leaf. opportunity. in true circle of hatred fashion. They had to be very strong ones. Sand had taken the first opportunity and tried to weaken the Leaf. Leaf had then taken the opportunity of having Sand busy with Rock. For those who saw it. and attacked. all crashed down within few minutes without any sign of how it happened. they were doing it for their enemies as well. Because they knew that whilst opening easy entrance to themselves. To bring it all down at once… especially since the seal barrier was apparently connected to the physical wall. unless someone was lucky enough to see the enemy actually coming.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 14 – BLOOD ON WATER Only a week later Naruto wished he had gone with Jiraiya. And to make them stand continuously was even harder and needed several things to be in place. ceaselessly and tirelessly. Rock had attempted to take the opportunity of having both of two deadly enemies occupied and sneak in through Rain. who among the gang knew most about sealing. but he knew it was a complicated process. how many there were and where they were heading. Several hundred miles of carefully made wall and perfectly functional seal barrier. Or stopped him at least. albeit holey. wall surrounding land of Rain was brought down. And worse yet. It meant that what ever they needed the barrier down for. retaliation. back forth. there has to have been back ups and safety methods and catches of extra sealing points in the danger zones. And with him being as he is. "They have to have been really good. the work could be done all at once along different points of the wall. It wasn't easy to bring a thing like that down. and thrown in some shadow clones. considering the area they covered.wall as sturdy as the one Hanzo had made didn't just fall. Before they at least had some knowledge when and where the foreign Shinobi were coming. Before the barrier had collapsed. Hanzo spend almost a year putting up that wall. retaliation. the more Naruto had been aware of the fact that no one had any sort of plan about what was happening. growing more haphazard and vicious as it went. If things had been bad before. because it had to be the man's doing. feeling faintly ill. it had been like tug-o'-war. said later on. "And very fast. It was more because of opportunity than of design that the war had continued after the ceasefire and how it had rolled on like an unstoppable monster. Especially not everywhere all at once. had retaliated. despite giving their enemies that advantage. it just seemed to happen by itself. Minato had the speed. it didn't tell anything good about Hidden Leaf that they had been the one to bring down the entire barrier down. But someone had to be behind it . Now they didn't have any of that. And yet Jiraiya had the knowledge. they were going to get even worse now." Naruto didn't understand exactly how seal barriers like that were made." Nagato. Naruto frowned. And yet they had still done it. It had been only two days since he had met the two Shinobi from Leaf when the entire. Opportunity. but none of them had any idea what. whatever they're going to bring into Rain. and two of main southern rivers were fed with poisons. but… what could that be. few Uchiha in strategic places could copy and store interesting Ninjutsu.otherwise they wouldn't have gone through the trouble. And seals. really. in mean while. When Sand upped their own protection in the south by bringing in two giantsummon sized puppets which had to be controlled by no less than twenty Shinobi. but he couldn't remember it anymore." Nagato murmured. None of which should be that hard to bring into Rain. It couldn't be blood line limits either. Summons. because the only thing they had to do was to bring the summoner into the country. x The broken wall accelerated the war and within the following week more damage was done than in the last few months. "All things to be fought against individually. what use would they be here in the chaotic melee going on? Sure. Puppets. as now Sand and Rock can bring their armies as well. it makes no sense. Naruto witnessed the difficult task of moving the Hokage-tower sized stone monstrosities once from afar. Leaf was doing something. narrowing his eyes. with the exception of summoning and barrier seals and such… they weren't that useful in a combat. And bringing an army wouldn't work. Unless they are using this as chance to bring in an army. Leaf had a plan. seemed to do nothing and even was withdrawing their forces. 132 . but they could sneak the Uchiha easily without bringing the wall down. How were they any better than Sand with their poisons and Rock with their habit of claiming Rain villages and turning into their own strong holds? Once he had had the answer. Fuuton and poisons. "The Leaf-nin have been going pretty viciously against the Sand so maybe that has something to do with it?" "Sand. Despite coming from the village and knowing it like the back of his hand and despite wanting to become its Hokage… Naruto was suddenly finding that he didn't like the place all that much. "I don't know. Not much after the Hidden Rock brought in four moving fortresses over the broken border. "I can't for the life of me think what the Leaf could be planning. powerful clans with powerful bloodline limits and Seals. They took the barrier down to hide whatever they were doing. In the end they didn't come up with any sort of conclusion or a theory. trying to remember. Leaf." They looked at each other and frowned. Leaf was known for three things." Konan suggested. That. and judging by the slowness and the amount of power required. what does Leaf have that would be so useful that they'd give Sand and Rock advantage like this…?" Naruto frowned. "I guess we have to consider what they might want to figure out what they probably plan to do. there had to be something really special about the towers . made people worried. more than anything else they had done so far. he knew that the Akatsuki and the Hidden Rain weren't the only ones preparing for whatever Leaf had in mind." Yahiko murmured when Naruto had explained him and the other two leaders what he thought. well… what could you accomplish with them here? Seals were designed for storing and locking things up. What else was there? It couldn't be summons.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN But now someone had a plan. The border villages in south and north were claimed by Sand and Rock respectively. Soon.when he was summoned by the Akatsuki for the first time. being the only summoner in the gang and among of it's best fighters. they ought to get a goddamned move on already. and gone the next. not only because of evacuations and building protections around still undamaged villages. or the human shield most of the time. Waiting. had been helping with the evacuation of a civilian family. Hanzo faced him across the waves of the lake that stood upon the hideout's exist. It was only the matter of time before they would find out whether it made any difference. With him 133 . Akatsuki was suddenly high up on Sand's. "Whatever Leaf is planning. After that their leader never let anyone go out alone and if they did. and whilst before those people had been expendable for the villages they were from and something they could attend to later. He didn't mind. "Even the weaker members of the gang. but he didn't have much of a choice. The gang's members tripled in size in one week. but also in building new safe houses and teaching new members techniques so that they could protect themselves and their charges. Akatsuki was suddenly stretched thin. of people the gang members had rescued or imprisoned or simply seen killed and later on buried or burned. Naruto was employed mostly to the danger zones. named Sukuu. he found split of a second later. It had impacted the gang harshly. more Rain civilians fell victim to their foreign guests. just because of what Leaf was doing. In the past months. Yahiko most of all as he had been the one to order Sukuu to the task of evacuation. It happened while the gang member. however. but it reflected somewhat badly on the situation.. he made sure they knew how to protect themselves. "In their preparation for whatever Leaf's gonna do. In the mean while all they could do was wait and see. wasn't like the waiting of before when they had been merely anticipating battles. Don't coddle them. Leaf was preparing for something and the anticipation and anxiousness was almost tangible in the air. Sand and Rock are going to tear this country apart. demanding release tags for the prison scrolls. It was from a mission like that ." Yahiko murmured more than once while reading through reports from various Akatsuki members. And maybe on Yahiko as well. The civilians had been badly wounded and Sukuu had became the first Akatsuki member to die whilst on line of duty.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN And whilst this all was happening. This time waiting was filled with them." Yahiko answered with a dark look and half hour later sent him out again. sixty from Rock and about thirty from Rain. Something was going to happen. The first time Akatsuki member was attacked. He was sent out to be the distraction. they were suddenly more important. when he saw the situation he had been summoned to." It wasn't only the civilians or the Shinobi which fell victim to the bloody anxiousness either. Not just to the task of protecting settlements and to work as possible barrier between Shinobi and civilians. "Remember that we all joined this gang for the same purpose. afterwards.. they had sealed more than fifty Shinobi from Sand. it was a Sand-nin. It probably looked a bit odd to the Rock-nin he had been facing when he was standing atop Gizensha's head one moment." he said to his leader while giving a report of somewhat successful evacuation and the fact that the water supply in the village he had attended to was unsuitable for drinking. Rock's and Rain's to-do-list. Reports of battles happening everywhere. And neither did Akatsuki.he had been sent to fend of attack against a small Shinobi clan living outside Village Hidden in Rain . "We didn't take any with us when we came to face him." Naruto answered." the man said. Hanzo probably wanted the men lost in Prison Scrolls back and able to fight. Of course. "Hanzo's nearly impossible to fight on water just when he's alone." Yahiko answered. gasped out. Two dozen of his clones shot forward and. Knowing what kind of summons he was against would determine who he would summon against them. First Koukatsu. Yahiko-san?" Naruto asked. Hanzo. "There you are. he will have designs for the release tags. With things as they were. but fit enough to fight." Naruto narrowed his eyes.not that he thought the man needed a reason. "Summon." he ordered. "No such luck." "I can still fight. Fox Sage" the leader of Hidden Rain crowed. though the trail of fresh blood that ran down his hand gave away his bluff." Yahiko ordered and with unified nod Naruto's clones gathered the wounded and headed away towards one of the many entrances that could be only opened from the inside. hovered next to them." "Do you know what affinities the summons have?" Naruto asked while quickly biting into his thumb to draw blood. there is no point fighting the half dead and clones. "I was starting to think you had met your end in a battle field somewhere.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN the man had dozen Shinobi and two gigantic summons. He would've preferred to use Gizensha." he continued while bringing his hands together. his eyes jumping from body to body to assess wounds and trying to see whether his fellow members were merely unconscious or dead. but those lizards make it even worse. "They didn't manage to get any of our tags. who had been the one to summon him. "Arashi-san!" Nagato. Fox Sage created the scrolls. Well. the red and black fox appearing to his side in enormous bursts of chakra smoke. "Leave them. but sharp order from Hanzo stopped them. ignoring the Shinobi of Rain who all immediately tensed. "You alright. looking alert. but the fox in sheep's skin was still in middle of previous summoning and next to no use on water. Naruto glanced at them and frowned. glancing at his leader." Naruto nodded and summoned. Neither were Koukatsu or Zurui for that 134 . then Zurui." the orange haired leader answered. "It worked!" Around the three of them lay bodies of Akatsuki members." his eyes narrowed. "Take them to the hideout to have their wounds checked. "Takes more than what this current world has to offer to take me down. right?" he asked under his breath. "Take him." Nagato argued. giving a jerking nod towards the other members. hurriedly attended to the wounded. even to Nagato and Konan who slumped to the assisting hands in relief. "We don't need the others anyway. wiped away a small trail of blood from the corner of his mouth and then glanced at him. still undamaged. "With these two we have all the fight we can handle right there. that explained what Hanzo was doing there . One of his hands lay limply at his side and with the other he was supporting half unconscious Konan while Yahiko. Hopefully there was still someone left inside to open. his eyes nailed on Naruto. bobbing idly up and down on the waves. Few of Hanzo's people made a move to follow them. "Tired. "Raiton and Suiton. Naruto blinked and then frowned. They had no claws or fangs whilst Koukatsu had enough to spare. Battle for foxes. Yahiko hurried out of the attack's away as well. shall we?" Naruto asked. The two salamanders Hanzo had summoned hissed and jerked nervously at the sight of the vulpine summons. The salamanders were easily big enough to match him with physical size. "Let's give some back up. after all. Serious with him meant enraged. a real battle!" "Arashi?" Zurui. a battle!" Koukatsu yelled after seeing the Rain's Shinobi before him . and behind the attacks came Hanzo's own jutsu.and the other summons. Arashi no Yaiba!" Naruto backed the attack. Arashi!" 135 . "Concentrate onto the battle. Let's give them some fire. The moment the ice spear hit the water. Hokufuu no Jutsu!" which froze the attacks into glowing spears of frozen lightning. "Finally. his hands going through a sequence of seals.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN matter." "With pleasure!" the red fox barked and ran forward. scattering the Rain Shinobi and hitting the salamander summons. "Fuuton. roared fire upon the Rain-nin. The salamanders hissed and their tails trashed as they answered." "Right. "Is this a real battle?" Naruto had summoned him too for defensive purposes before." Naruto answered. asked quietly. "A battle. it was merely a sparring match no matter how serious. and was almost knocked off balance as Zurui hurriedly jumped out of the attack's way. who was a little more composed. apparently having seen it in action before. The orange haired Shinobi was steadily staring at Hanzo and suddenly Naruto wasn't sure about whether it was a sparring match after all. making the water bullets sizzle with electricity. but that won't matter much to us. with the hairs in the back of his neck standing up. jumped out of the way nimbly as the flaming wind blades began crashing down around him. but they were still lizards while Koukatsu was a fox. "How the hell…?" Naruto murmured. from Zurui who gave low hum of agreement in answer. Yahiko was too serious. but the two worked well together and even better with Naruto's own wind affinity. one shooting out a long tongue of lightning while the other shot out water bullets at Naruto's summon. The two of the attacks mingled midair. glancing at Yahiko. but stood their ground. Kitsune-bi!" the fox called and. "Katon. who was used to having Zurui's back up. "How the hell did he do that?" "Now is not the time to wonder. "It's a battle for them and a sparring match for us. Smiling grimly. "Tokage." Zurui answered and drew a breath. Koukatsu let out an eerie bark of laughter." Zurui answered tensely. was determined by a kill. the Fox Sage turned to his summons and then jumped to Zurui's back. his hurricane of wind blades rushing right into the fiery breath of Zurui's foxfire and catching the flames. in only two giant leaps reaching the two salamanders and attacking them with eager fury. Eki! Use Ninjutsu!" Hanzo called out. Naruto looked ahead and went through the hand seals of a Fuuton jutsu. Koukatsu. so the question was merited. "They have Suiton and Raiton affinities apparently. "Koukatsu! Go and play! Let's take out our amphibian friends. If there was no kill. making them cry out in pain. the area around it froze completely while lightning streamed across the surface. then jumped even further when they saw the damage. Shaking his head. "Fuuton. " a voice came from behind him and Naruto only barely managed to look behind him before he felt the kunai. it seemed. He let out a stream of curses. "Damn it. "Goddamn it." Yahiko appeared to his side. I can't summon my clones to get into the sage mode. "Oh. "How far are we from the hideout?" if they were still within reach. and turned to face their enemy. he had had the Kyuubi to deal with wounds like this. I don't think I can walk this off. By the look of his wince. You should've used Senjutsu. wincing. are you wounded?" "The bastard stuck a kunai in me. It was probably not the smartest move. this would've been nothing but a scratch and he would've already healed." he groaned as he felt the kunai. and almost fell over." he muttered.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Right. Fox Sage. "Without that thing. There was a reason why no one wanted to fight Hanzo on water. The world seemed to be spinning around him. goddamn it!" he gasped out as he realised what Hanzo had done. handle and all." he gasped. and looked around. looking up to see that Koukatsu was doing his best to keep Hanzo's people occupied. "Arashi-san. taking support of the other so that he wouldn't fall down. Hanzo was holding his summoning scroll in his hand. "How bad is it. and soaked through his clothes." Naruto answered. frowning with worry while assessing Naruto's wound. taking hold of his hand and hurriedly helping him to his feet. "Arashi!" Zurui barked. it was only belatedly that Naruto realised that he shouldn't have been able to reach the kunai. Combining wind and lighting should be impossible." Naruto said and let out a grunt as he managed to pull the kunai out. do you need to retreat?" "This is so un-cool. he might be able to get a clone without having to summon. Not to mention that he had never heard of anyone combining three elements. and without even needing to look Naruto knew the man was back at his two summons' side. Once upon a time. "Just… just give me a moment. "He hit something serious inside me. Zurui grumbled at the other human on his back but said nothing. His summoning scroll was gone." he murmured. only to see that Hanzo wasn't with the salamanders anymore. Yahiko-san. Once upon a time." Yahiko answered. "Oh. falling to both knees and having to take support from Zurui's fur to not fall completely of the fox's back. he drew out his own weapon and sharply tried to reach Hanzo with it. "About ten miles. Blood streamed from the wound. In blind instinct more than conscious action. almost as if he had never been there at all. There should've been something on the way." 136 . "I can smell your blood. it didn't look good. "Where did he -?" "You're on the slow side today." Naruto grumbled." he said. Yahiko ignored the fox and looked down on Naruto." Naruto growled. "I'm sorry. falling to one knee on Zurui's back and almost dropping the kunai as he reached to touch his back. Frowning he looked ahead. It was only years and years of being badly wounded in just about every battle he had taken part in. Hanzo had not only stabled the thing right through his utility belt. goddamned-!" Naruto hissed. he realised as he felt something give in inside him and the world tilted around him. However the leader of Hidden Rain was already gone. "Shit. but felt a bit unnerved nonetheless. Only the hilt jutted out. trying to look over his shoulder while Naruto tried to take hold of the kunai to pull it out. that kept Naruto from screaming out in pain as the kunai dug into his flesh. but buried it deep in his back. It was odd sensation and too distracted by it. Then he glanced around. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Will the summons stay if you fall unconscious?" Yahiko asked tensely. "Stop whining and let me have a look at you. "Arashi. "Hissori or Sakkaku. summon someone else. "Careful. isn't he?" "Damn it. sorry." Yahiko murmured to Naruto while helping the wounded Fox Sage to Hissori's back." the great fox answered. just give us five minutes.I must go aid Koukatsu. before Hissori jumped off Zurui's back. "We will. as the illusion washed over him and seemed to take 137 . Usually Hissori was hard for him to work with. almost out of strength. You. Arashi?" she snapped. "Are you going to be alright?" "Hissori can temporarily fix the wound." Naruto answered tiredly while taking hold of the yellow fox's fur. "I'll be back to help you." Yahiko answered sternly." "Who?" Naruto asked. "Regardless. "What are you doing. "What ninjutsu do you use?" "Suiton. come with me." Zurui answered." Naruto murmured. "Little thing. glancing at Naruto with slight confusion "That's next to no use. Thankfully his hand was still soaked with his own blood and the rain hadn't washed it away. summoning people to the backs of others? Have you no manners?" "Sorry. barely withholding the cry of pain as she poked her nose against the wound. Distantly Naruto could hear the two of them exchanging strategies and was somewhat amused by the thought of Yahiko and Zurui." he grumbled. Face me. and the bigger black fox rushed forward." Naruto did and looked up to her eyes." she said." Yahiko answered. I see how I can use you. but he is busy. who was pretty strategy savvy. half blinded by the pain. "Not exactly in the state to mind my manners." Zurui snapped. your summons." he said. appeared beside him and almost fell off Zurui's back due to her size. seeming satisfied. She snarled with surprise and grabbed a tight hold of the bigger fox's back in attempt to stay still. a little startled as she settled him upon her front paw. "I can cover this up in no time." Naruto panted. and he could without making a new wound summon. Quickly he ran through the hand seals and forcibly pushed the chakra which he no longer could spare to the summoning. we need help. exchanging tactics." "Cocky folk. Twinge of pain took the thought away as Hissori reached back with her head and took him into her jaws. "Take Arashi and see what you can do about his wound . glancing at Yahiko. Hissori." "You can have ten. the medium sized yellow fox. Hissori. Yahiko on his back." the fox murmured. "What the hell. her illusions tended to be so strong that Naruto had no chance of avoiding them and got dragged into them along with their enemies. human." "Later." she answered. nudging him to turn and dutifully Naruto showed her his back. But that time he was more than relieved that he had next to no ability of blocking her Genjutsu. I'm wounded here. "I would prefer Gizensha. His attack stopped thus. who had left Zurui's size. Hanzo jumped back. but the salamanders were both old and adjusted to battle while the foxes were relatively new at being summoned. It was better that the man concentrated on him. If Hanzo was there to kill him. let's go help the others. The wound is still there even if you can't feel it anymore." the man murmured. rather than already overwhelmed Yahiko." Naruto growled. Both sides were wounded by the time Naruto rejoined the fight. caught them with a pair of prison scroll. don't push yourself. "Let's see you handle this!" Hanzo's eyes narrowed at the sight of the two Rasengans spinning away on Naruto's palms. This time the man was aiming to kill. Fox Sage." the man said while rushing towards Naruto with a kunai in hand. "I can't cover the next one. huh?" Naruto growled and created couple of clones." he muttered and ignored the drain of chakra. Akatsuki policies be damned. faster than anyone else Naruto had ever seen. "Come on. "Come on!" Hanzo yelled at him as Naruto dodged the water attack. 138 ." she warned. waiting to be hit?" Then. "I'll try to be moderate. "Are you truly this weak?" "Weak. barely in time to take out his own kunai to meet the one aiming for him. but then he realised. the salamander summoner was already aiming for Naruto. He was almost out already. "You don't think I will merely stand here." Naruto answered while standing up and climbing to her back. Hanzo. wasn't watching the battle go by idly. He held out both of his hands and the clones immediately begun moulding his charka into spheres. Unlike during their previous encounters. Also. Hissori ran right into the battle and while Naruto assessed the situation. Suiton jutsu already on his lips. this would be the last attack he'd be able to make. their battle making the entire lake quake. "I would've been disappointed if you had been taken out easily. I'll give you power." "I'm glad I didn't let you down then. The man was skating across the water's surface. barely able to keep up facing them. before turning to meet yet another Shinobi's Suiton jutsu with his own. His north wind attack blew hidden by the illusionary foxes and froze few of the Rain Shinobi to the lake's surface. And in the mean while. Naruto hurriedly started making hand seals. but neither was about to give in. "Better. Hanzo wasn't there just to check things out or because of some elaborate plan. For a moment Naruto wondered why Hanzo suddenly seemed overwhelmingly strong. he would gladly return the favour. Koukatsu and Zurui were trying their best. however. and you might end up killing yourself if you go overboard. "That again. Naruto felt momentary annoyance but pushed it aside. he turned and ran ." The fight turned into a chaos very quickly. who was turned to face attack coming from one of Hanzo's men and thus had his back towards the upcoming attack. with a raised eyebrow.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN the wound away. There Yahiko.towards Yahiko. As she roared and seemed to breathe out horde of smaller foxes that rushed at their opponents. While his salamanders fought against Koukatsu and Zurui. they would've been thought opponent to face. The Shinobi Hanzo had brought with him were all masters of Ninjutsu and even without Hanzo and his lizard's there to make things difficult. so try not to be stabbed again. Yahiko was more than busy with the Shinobi. she was already weaving her Genjutsu. "You want power. He reached for his pouch for a weapon. There was a sickening sound before Naruto's mouth filled with blood. waiting to die?" The Rain's leader's eyes widened and hurriedly he tried to pull away. "Die!" Naruto grimaced gasping with the pain and then grinned. As the water surrounded him." Naruto grunted while snatching the scroll from the air. throwing the orange haired Akatsuki leader out of Hanzo's attack's way . With the last of his strength he managed to hide the scroll back in his pouch. but it was too late. Her thick tail slammed against Naruto's back and the force of the blow was enough to send Naruto flying. he wondered idly if he was going to back into his bloody mindscape when he died. blood running down his chin behind his fox mask. the Rasengans fading to nothing. he took hold of Hanzo's wrist. Hanzo smiled. "But I've seen this scene play too many times not to know what to do. Fox Sage. maybe." the man twisted his hand. the scroll rolled shut. "I was wondering whether you would. I wasn't sure if you would. only barely able to control the rapid flight to get where he wanted.Hissori!" Naruto yelled. making Naruto cry out. "But it seems you too are a predictable fool.and inserting himself right to its path. sealed inside. He almost slammed against Yahiko. You don't think I would just stand here." he answered. quick!" The fox only glanced at him before spinning around sharply. By flick of his wrist.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Shit . "Fool. 139 . but his hands grasped hold of something even better. leaving no sight of Hanzo to be seen. "Got you. kunai now buried in Naruto's stomach. Now. "Throw me after him. before his knees gave in and the water suddenly came up at him. Naruto opened the Prison Scroll and sent it wrapping around Hanzo.." the man said at him. With somewhat anticlimactic snap. dyed red with his blood. The rest of your little group all happily threw themselves on the way to protect this orange haired idiot. Weakly. who only had to time to curse bitterly before he vanished.. " "Hero of the hour?" Naruto asked." she chuckled. not to mention about the damage done to your insides. "I guess my beach going days are over. he rarely needed actual healing. The next feeling was pain." Konan's voice intruded his musings and Naruto looked up to see her walking towards his bed. but aside from them the rest survived with injuries. Whining softly with the pain." she then said quietly.. The only scars he had ever had were the ones on his cheek. How about you. only about a day. but he felt weak without the demon fox. "You sealed Hanzo . wouldn't you say?" "Hm. You almost lost 140 . Yahiko-san is alright. He probably would've. not daring to try and sit up. Yahiko was able to bring you in pretty soon after you collapsed so you didn't manage to aggravate your wounds too badly. he missed the Kyuubi with every cell of his being. and they were more like birthmarks or tattoos than scars. smoothing the bandage. though. he lowered the covers again.the bandage was slightly reddened in the middle. That was about it. "That's good. When had been the last time he had been actually hospitalised? When he had used Rasenshuriken for the first time. "You almost died of the blood loss. Agony of loneliness and risk of unleashing demon upon the world aside. the healing chakra had been very useful. Both will leave nasty scars. like he was cheating on someone somehow. There was a stone ceiling above him which meant that he was alive and not in his bloody mindscape. searing across his stomach and back and almost making him vomit." he sighed mock morosely. hadn't his stomach been empty.and saved Yahiko's life. well. "Worry about yourself instead. though the idea of having scars at all was a new and somewhat novel for him." she said while pulling the covers back to inspect his wounds. He leaned back down with another sigh. Before that it had been. right?" he then asked. and that had lasted only few hours so that Tsunade could bandage the broken arm. He had never had battle scars as those had been always healed by the Kyuubi. It felt oddly hypocritical and wrong of him to think so. but they are still serious. it will take a while to heal. Especially the one on your back. He was bandaged and by the looks of it his wounds weren't completely healed . For a Shinobi wounded as many times as he tended to. "I see our hero of the hour is awake." Naruto nodded. after Valley of the End. "Pretty honourable thing to do. but the one on your back. he supposed. no need to worry. Arashi-san. She chuckled. which was good. The gang's been celebrating nearly non-stop since. Nagato and I are both fine. With a sigh. and Nagato-san? And everyone else? How long have I been out of it?" "Not long. and sighed with relief as the woman nodded. Not for the first time. the first thing he felt was relief. he glanced down and then lifted the bedcovers covering him. sitting down to the bed's edge.. "I would've preferred to come out of it with little fewer wounds. We lost three members in the attack.. "You are lucky.. I suppose." Naruto mused and winced. "You gave us quite a scare.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 15 – STRANGE CALM When Naruto woke up. swallowing down the bitter taste of blood. and the fact that he had reputation of the Prison Scroll's creator to live up to. Just not in a while." "We'll make do. It won't make us popular." "With me it's usually the latter you gotta worry about. but of course it didn't work out like that. "Well. gingerly touching his stomach." "You can still eat ramen. you know. patting his hand." Naruto answered with a frown." Konan murmured." Naruto assured with a laugh." x 141 . and there was probably a whole line of people who had drooled after Hanzo's position. I think I'd knock myself out trying to sit up right now." Naruto said. "Well." Konan answered." he murmured. Naruto chuckled mirthlessly. I can keep myself busy. "Also you will be in bed rest for about a week . "There's something I've been meaning to do anyway. "Alright. but no thanks. "I need to get some studying done." "You need me out there. Konan-san." he answered. "I'm the only summoner you have.. "Not really. I don't really care about the rest." Konan said. "Hard to be worse than him. they will fall into disarray and maybe start fighting over who will succeed him." Naruto nodded and closed his eyes. "Just say I can still eat ramen.." he said. But there is a chance that with Hanzo gone. after all." Naruto answered. Arashi-san? With you I can't tell whether you will enjoy month of no work or if you will sneak out the moment we have our backs turned. This will give me the time. ready to try and claim it any moment. It won't probably take longer than few days before the Rain attacks us again in order to get their leader back. I'll say that. Hopefully they will be too busy to bother us in that case. but hasn't gotten the chance.and we won't let you on the field for at least a month. "Do I need to strap you down just to be sure?" "Kinky.the scroll will stay with Akatsuki for now." Naruto eyed her for a moment before sighing and nodding.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN a kidney. "What happened with Hanzo? Do we still have him or was the scroll released back to the Hidden Rain?" "No. Don't worry." Konan murmured.. Yahiko wants to make example of him . thinking of Pain and the dark Akatsuki and Orochimaru and Madara." she said sternly. "Are you going to be alright. no hospital talk." she said and sighed before smiling down to him." "Please. They were a rebel group. "We don't need you so badly that we'd work you to death. who knows. "After you lost consciousness. thinking about Kuda the pipe fox and sealing.. half worried and half amused. let's hope they're not as bad as Hanzo." he said then. he also sealed the rest of the people attacking us. who ever succeeds him. He had always imagined Yahiko would be the one to succeed Hanzo. "But not this time." "I don't know if that's good or bad. nor was that poisoned member the only one to die in the following weeks." Kuda was very happy to find that Naruto knew very little of Fuuinjutsu. came to visit him and thus give him a perfect excuse of taking a break. Even with Rain temporarily in too much of a disarray to be a bother anymore and Leaf had now completely withdrawn." Kuda murmured. pushing further towards the centre of the country all the while marking the land they had already claimed with their defences. he didn't understand them. other died a day after poisoning.one got antidote in time. Jiraiya had only taught Naruto the bare essentials of Sealing. summoning scrolls and now the Prison Scrolls. though he seemed to be proud in that way foxes sometimes were. Sand and Rock had gotten cocky and were making their moves faster.and besides. anyone.about the new Rock fortressed in north and the mass evacuations in south where the poisons were spreading. But all Naruto could do was instruct . even that had been more luck than skill. in the first week while Naruto was in bed rest and thus incapable of escaping the vicious little pipe fox. he was happy when ever someone. Naruto soon found. Kuda picked up from where he had left on." Naruto said to the pipe fox who often grumbled about how mere month was no way long enough to teach everything. The pipe fox's summoning had taken more out of Naruto than it would've had he been healthy and the vicious little furry snake demanded pint of blood each week for his troubles . even if Kuda did take the habit of taking to him like he was an infant. Though the fox mocked him endlessly.and though he did know little bit of sealing theory. he didn't know enough to explain how a storage scroll worked or exactly why his summoning scrolls worked the way they did. Still. there were still Sand and Rock to worry about. Now. One entire Rain village had been completely turned upside down and turned into Rock's strong hold. They appreciated all things cunning so when Naruto lied or pretended .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN It wasn't exactly easy to stay behind while others went to out. Though he knew how to make storage scrolls. Kuda took great pleasure in pointing out his every mistaken belief and explaining in slowest way possible what was right and how sealing worked and so forth. Mostly he was just copying mindlessly what he had seen others do . "Just enough so that I could've created the Prison Scrolls. and thus to be congratulated. And they weren't the only things happened nor the only trouble Akatsuki interfered with . Sometimes the visitors were the leaders or the other members who visited him to keep him informed about what was happening.they only thought that it was a very fox-like thing to do. Naruto didn't mind the slowness of the tutelage that much. And with two adversaries temporarily out of the picture.which he wasn't that good at . "But month will be enough time to teach you to bluff knowledge about seals convincingly." "That will take more than a month too . Two Akatsuki members fell victim to the poisons while helping the mass evacuation in south . Most often than 142 . Mostly he distracted himself with Kuda. "I don't need to learn all of it. I'm not happy you taking the credit for that. So. Even though he had more or less created the scroll that summoned him in person.but it was well worth it. tell me what you know about seals and I will fill in the rest. Both seemed to be in hurry to secure as much of their territory as possible.or took the credit of someone else's work . with two of the moving fortresses standing in guard of it. And there were lot to do. Naruto only heard about it all in second had . Studying wasn't his forte and the slowness gave him the chance to actually internalise the new information. I put lot of hard work creating those seal arrays.and distract himself from the things he couldn't do anything about. "You don't need to be a Sage to be able to fight.or seemed to anyway. Leaf had attacked the enemy villages themselves.as they had. and unlike Naruto who could be running and still feel the nature's energy around him. "I don't want to be useless anymore. Trust me.and month and a half after the wall of Rain had been broken . it was hard to tell as she didn't have eyebrows left. "But I want to learn how to fight. and he needed to hone it.and if she got rid of her fears somewhere along the way. just as confused as they were. Rain's civilians and Shinobi. confused quiet fell over former battle fields. There were many theories about what had happened. Despite her disadvantages. And then. one day. Naruto suspected that his own skill of being aware of the nature's energy no matter how distracted he ought to be was because he was actual master of Senjutsu and had actual Sage form but that didn't stop him from trying to help her get better." "You promise?" she asked quietly. There was one. but not in years.whatever Leaf was doing took effect. With little bit of nudging she would become a great Shinobi . but Naruto didn't really mind. Shiryoku. You might have Sage Form one day.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN not it was his former students. It was slow process though. however. "Will I ever become a true Sage like you. Arashi-sensei?" she asked after spending few hours in meditation. breaking down the border wall and pretending to be preparing for something so that Sand and Rock would move their main forces to the land . she lost her concentration if she even walked too fast.maybe even past your puberty altogether. with most of the forces occupied. who were almost all now learning under other people." Naruto answered while frowning down to an array of seals Kuda had him copying. "Firstly." The blind girl frowned . once your senses are good enough and you can feel everything around you without much a problem. who didn't have another teacher and who visited him because he was the only one who could teach her properly. x Two weeks after Naruto had been injured . you should wait until you've grown a little more ." Naruto chuckled. both official and un-official. apparently. watched with deep bewilderment as the forces of Sand and Rock started withdrawing back beyond the borders. There were worse kids he could've had as his first student. she might really become a Sage too." Shiryoku said. Shiryoku became officially known as his pupil after that. His calligraphy was atrocious. I will teach you how to fight myself. And even after that it takes time and patience to get that point. "I promise. Shiryoku had mastered the basics of Senjutsu to the point where she could walk around without help and never run into anything. You don't even need to know Senjutsu at all. "Will I have a Sage form?" "Not any time soon. she was a good girl and was taking into what little chakra control they had taught to her like fish to water. Battles ceased without explanation and odd. Others 143 . They mostly visited to get some instructions and pointers and have him explain chakra control to them one more time because they couldn't get this or that jutsu right. Some believed that Leaf had used Rain as distraction. "What always baffled me most about this war was where the hell they got the funds for it.. The rest looked like slums even the best of days. Leaf is the most prosperous of all Shinobi villages. Sand and Rock Countries were in process of writing new peace treaties in the Land of Iron. In the mean while the smaller nations were picking up the pieces. it was enough to drain the last of everyone's capital. though they were very odd celebrations to be having as no one had any idea why the war had in the end ended. And they used that against Rock and Sand. "Fame and location.. confused and stilted but still there. even if all four other great nations turn against it. it did make sense. "When the war ended no one really knew why. And in the end. and Village Hidden in Rocks is nearly impossible to get to.. or tampered with the market or done something similar and started choking the two other nations by taking away their goods. When those smaller nations need help." "What's so different about Leaf?" Naruto asked curiously. No one knew for sure. It wouldn't surprise me much of Leaf really had blackmailed Rock and Sand somehow to make the peace. they couldn't make proper weapons. "Most which have no Shinobi villages of their own. and most of the alliances are made in shadows. "Because of the easy access." Yahiko snorted. the peace treaties are signed in shadows too. And it's not without reason. "Except for Leaf." he spoke over a saucer of sake which was his quiet. "When the war finally continued. Why do you think everyone is always at Leaf's throat? It's standing surrounded by smaller nations. that's why all other nations want to take it over.. Sand spend most of the ceasefire trying to raise money." Yahiko thought differently. That's why it's so hated. but full peace. Not just a ceasefire. That's why everyone bet on Hidden Leaf. "Wasn't it something like this with the First Great War too?" someone asked. But peace came. didn't it? That's probably why they used so much poisons anyway." he said. the hard to get to villages. I think it finally did." Naruto had never thought of it like that. "It's almost as if someone designed it so. and by the sound of it Leaf was coming out on top. And with Wind Country being mostly deserts. Hidden Leaf is the only Shinobi village of the five great nations that isn't actually hidden. That sort of thing ought to choke any nation to death. who do you think they go to.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN believed that Leaf had sabotaged supply routes. right?" "Shinobi wars. why did it look like patchwork guilt most of the time? The only buildings that hadn't been covered in signs of repair were the newest ones or the ones opened by big clans like Uchiha and Hyuuga. Except for one thing. "Dozen years of war with only three ceasefires during it. The celebrations of peace lasted for a while. rumours from the neighbour nations came in. "Most of the fighting happens in the shadows. Some believed that Leaf had assassinated both Sand and Rock council. If Leaf was so prosperous." he muttered. or the one in plain sight?" The orange haired leader shook his head. they ran out of metal and prices being what they are. As they pondered. slightly perplexed celebration.. The whole world knows where it is. The last ceasefire was put in motion because they almost ran out of funds and couldn't continue financing the campaigns. Leaf. Probably because it was filled with strong and often less than sane Shinobi. you know. It's chances of success are always good. but when he did. It gets most missions. but didn't let his thoughts known to many.." He took a sip of the sake." another snorted in answer. The River Country 144 . The Fox Sage himself kept on healing until finally he was announced ready for active duty. x Naruto didn't understand much about politics. Somehow they all knew that it wasn't over yet. 145 . it turned out." He folded his arms and continued: "Hanzo became Hidden Rain's leader by default one could say. the so called peace having been nothing but a sham or a ceasefire after all. When it came time to select a leader for Rain. that strength means nothing if no one knows anything about him. Nagato or Naruto. along with whole bunch of release tags. but Yahiko was very good with them ." he said. no villages to protect. "Of course no one wants a weak leader for a village full of Shinobi. but it was jerking and confused process. even to Rain itself except for one scroll. however. as they couldn't help but fear that any moment now the war would start again. Power. But what can put a mediocre leader on the seat of a ninja village is connections. well known and feared. and no one knew what would follow. There was stillness as no one seemed to know what to do. "Essentially who succeeds matter of three things. was the only Shinobi in Rain of that level. By that time.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN had instated a poison removal institute to try and repair the damage Sand had done and in other nations similar things were taking place. not even the ones which concerned the selection of Kages and Shinobi village leaders. The second best was either Yahiko. And the fact that Hanzo had never trusted anyone to be neither his advisor or his second gave none of them any rights to succeed. The Prison Scrolls captured in the last days of the war. His salamander summons were known even in the larger nations and what really made him famous was his speed on water and his traps. None of them were the level of the Kages. Even if you have the strongest Shinobi in the world. "Now we wait and see whether or not they will want Hanzo back and if not." he said. Who knows them and who owes favours to them. "He was powerful. However that's not all. Akatsuki's goal had came true. later on he became known for paranoia but before that he was known as strong Shinobi to be feared." Yahiko answered. fame and connections. And with most of Rain's official Shinobi were either high level Jounin level or Chuunin. They helped in repairs and those evacuated from their homes were taken back. he was chosen unanimously because no one dared to go against him or his fame. Some of the gang members were murmuring about going back to their homes. Yahiko wasn't about to release Hanzo. the official peace treaty had been signed and there were no fights for him to fight.and not too annoyed about explaining them which was also a plus. but something held them back. were send to every country whose Shinobi they had captured. Hidden Rain was without leader. Akatsuki kept on moving. who they will put in charge of Hidden Rain." However. "What happens now?" someone finally asked quietly. All except for Rain which stood still and silent like hare caught in lantern light. so only the strongest of the top are ever even considered. Sure. none whom were official Rain ninja. and Naruto was glad for it. Hanzo. something kept them wary. and though it had never been exactly rich before. Right now it's the matter of connections and not power or fame. The man might've been little more than puppet in Hanzo's plans before. It's impossible to know for sure before they actually select someone. was even more important." others reminded him darkly. Not to mention about the goddamned wall he built which almost ended up choking us. but now he was moving fast and relentlessly to gain some control over his country. in the eyes of everyone else." "Do you know any possible candidates?" one of the newest members asked curiously. He might've been powerful. Once the rest of the civilians joined the tune. That leaves us with whole slew of shinobi we know nothing about." The fighting over Hanzo's title continued almost for a month before a man was selected. he's pretty much the only Rain Shinobi who is known at all. Only those who want the position. The problem is who will succeed him. and no one demanded the access to his prison scroll." They found few days later why no one wanted Hanzo back. The winner will be the one who has most influence. The Rain Daimyo. It remained within Akatsuki hideout. First was the descent of Hanzo's fame in the eyes of everyone who knew him." he shrugged.. no one would've bothered dragging them into the war in the first place. But he made Hidden Rain strong and thus a target which very few were happy about. who apparently was 146 . ferocious speeches. And he was not happy of the damage Hanzo had done to the country's economy with his wall. it had been too late for Hanzo. and by all appearances the whole of Rain was happy with that." "It'd be a whole different tune they would sing if he was free. "So far they seem happy not to get Hanzo back.. "That's the problem. who had more power now that Hanzo no longer had a kunai at his throat. "If he some how returned to power right now. "So. the punch of sentimentalist who didn't kill. After the fact that he had been sealed by Akatsuki had became common knowledge. Not that I mind. thought. at least. they'd stone him out. Not anymore. Even the man's strongest supporters had quieted down under the wrath of entire nation. The second thing. That's why. Or it might be a weapon maker who creates most of Hidden Rain's Weapons. Rain will be better without him. No one wanted Hanzo back." someone muttered amusedly. The entire country was more or less dirt poor thanks to the former leader of Hidden Rain . Even if Akatsuki was growing more powerful. "Hanzo never let anyone of his underlings get too powerful or too famous and if they grew too influential. There aren't any candidates. spoke against Hanzo in long. he had them killed. "It's hilarious but he's actually safer in that scroll now than he'd be if he were free. they were still that freedom-fighter group with weak ideals.. His name was Keishi and he was one of Hanzo's former underlings. they don't want him back. it had done well for itself for being so small. "There's a reason why none of this came up before. so. the entire Daimyo's court had begun speaking against Hanzo.. however. And the fact that Hanzo had been beaten by them lowered his stature in people's eyes quite a bit." their leader shrugged. It might be the son of important politician of the Rain Daimyo's court. turning the entire civilian noble court against him. Akatsuki was weak. In other words. and once that realisation dawned. Or it might be someone with connections to the builder who made Hanzo's stupid wall. two very important things had happened. If Hanzo and the Hidden Rain had been mediocre.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Yahiko shook his head. but he wasn't exactly well liked and the fact that he was powerful caused some trouble in it's own right. which in the eyes of the civilians was a very good thing to do.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN distantly related to the Rain Daimyo. He even sent out Rain's Shinobi to help rebuilding and detoxifying the villages that had suffered in the war. People seemed content with the selection as first as the man seemed both strong and level headed . Then Keishi announced that in honour of the former leader he would have the Rain Country's border wall rebuilt.and somewhat known too. 147 . he seemed like a good choice. All in all. Naruto was wearing his fox mask and had his umbrella with him. "You will?" he asked eagerly. wasn't all that well informed about the political situation aside from the rumours he heard." he said. and Naruto folded his arms with a smile. he had been bored to death . trying to escape Kuda's demands for blood and teach Shiryoku the basics of Taijutsu.. as you have some knowledge about Hidden Rain." Yahiko agreed with a faint smile. but I have a feeling this will have something to do about Rain's current political situation. that being me.and after what we did in the war." the orange haired leader said with a snort of amusement. "Now. But even he knew that something was going on when Yahiko called the Akatsuki together and told them that the Daimyo had contacted him. and not just under ground group it is . However it is. Nagato and Konan on other hand will stay here in case something will go wrong.even if orange was the coolest colour ever. bring them to me today. I will be set out first thing tomorrow with Arashi-san. "Nice to have your approval. I will. Naruto felt a little out of place beside Yahiko and Haruka. Like Yahiko had said. they set out in the morning." "And that idiot Keishi!" someone called out and a rumble ran through the crowd.I will try to get stature and funding and everything else we might need. if anyone has problems against the plan or any suggestions. and instead use the quiet time to his advantage. "Yes. On top of that. He certainly didn't mind and it would be interesting to meet a Daimyo. but still. Konan and Nagato." he said with a mocking bow. "I can't tell for sure. setting him just a little more apart. Chuckle ran through the group and Yahiko grinned. I am going to try and have him announce Akatsuki as official organisation. "He wants to have a meeting with Akatsuki leaders. making more people laugh. He preferred to leave the worrying about that to the three leaders who were better at understanding stuff like that." A surprised quiet followed before someone let out a rather random.. embarrassing cheer. our opinion apparently matters. "It might be that he wants to break up Akatsuki or that he wants just our opinion of the matter concerning Hidden Rain . who was busier with learning seals. "Probably. Beside them his own orange robe seemed gaudy and out of place . "You will come with me because you're the most well known of our members and I might be able to use your fame in our advantage.and chance to run away from Kuda's teaching was more than welcome. 148 . Ever since healing. Of course the current ones were plain black with the thick utility belt and had none of the red clouds Akatsuki in the future had in their clothes. both whom were wearing the so called official Akatsuki cloaks.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 16 – THE RAINY CITY Naruto." The former Hidden Rain Shinobi nodded her consent. this is a chance we can't let slip. I also want you. Haruka to join me." Naruto perked up with surprise and interest. " Naruto chuckled. what should we do?" Naruto asked while checking that his clothes weren't too wrinkled and his mask was clean. "So. so it's better to tread carefully.as was the new main street with which cut through the entire town and was surrounded by ruins of former buildings. It had certainly not been his intention to become famous. He was a surprisingly young man with keen look about his eyes despite being slightly overweight. though. The Rain capital had seen battle. Arashi-san?" Haruka asked with mild amusement. making him wonder where he had seen the woman before." the assistant said after escorting them into rather simple guest room. you bastard!" she answered. "You're the Fox Sage and everyone knows what the Fox Sage looks like. probably to the Daimyo. wanted to see the letter Daimyo had sent to the orange haired Akatsuki leader. That one nearly showed a kunai into my eye when I sealed her." Thankfully. "I see you have acquaintances here. "You must be tired and weary from your travel. "So let's have you looking like you ought to. Then he remembered one of the many battles he had interfered with and happily waved back. they only frowned and mumbled to each other at the sight of the Akatsuki members but didn't do anything. running his hand through his hair. but it made him feel a bit self-conscious. He didn't mind exactly. "That's about as good plan as we could possibly hope to make at this point. but the ruins of crumbled buildings and the numerous construction sites were probably a new addition . I don't know what sort of man the Daimyo is. and then finally led them inside. Then the man bustled away. but he has shown strength of character ever since Hanzo was sealed. "Nice day today!" he called cheerfully to the woman. "Burn in hell. One of them gave Naruto a rather obscene gesture. so it was the first time he had seen the place. There they met the Rain Daimyo himself. She had been one of the Rain Shinobi he had had the pleasure of sealing. It was like a scar in the face of the capital.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Usually he didn't much care about that. "Let me do the talking for now. He was looking down to a map of the country when they entered." The words made Naruto feel a little like Yahiko had somehow turned him into a brightly coloured banner. but Yahiko had especially told him to wear the clothes and the mask and even had one of the Akatsuki members who were good with fixing stuff take look at Naruto's umbrella. and nothing else needed to be said. the Daimyo didn't make him wait for long and soon the secretary came back to lead them to a meeting room. It was one of the territories where Hanzo had been moving diligently during the war. He hadn't even realised what sort of fame he had gained at the Fox Sage before Yahiko had decided to make use of it. twelve-story building which was apparently where the Daimyo worked rather than lived. "If that's how you want to call it. They were greeted by an assistant at the gates of the Daimyo's rather massive. He didn't know how it usually looked." Yahiko explained. 149 . The man bowed." the orange haired leader said while inspecting the visual Naruto made. exchanged some compliments with Yahiko. "One of the Rock's moving fortresses went right through this place. Though there were few official Rain shinobi around." Yahiko said. Please take this chance to freshen while I inform Daimyo Shuutoudono of your arrival. Naruto could immediately tell when they entered the town. "But I can't begrudge you for it. Shuutou-dono?" Yahiko asked carefully. "You must be Yahiko-san. I have lot I with to discuss with you. It might take longer than Hanzo took." "Of course. he can have his shinobi build it." he muttered. down went the imports and suddenly the entire country was out of food." Thankfully Naruto's mask hid his wordless gawking and Yahiko was more than ready to cover for his lapse of manners. The Hidden Rain's now head over heels with him after he got the support from civilians .and he doesn't even need much of funds to build the wall. is it? It is a privilege. I see you've seen fit to leave your two advisors behind. All the materials are there after all. but the economy is still in the pits and now our goods have to be sold too cheap. "Little I can do to stop him. of course. lying in useless heaps along the border for anyone to take. "With Hanzo's plans. Apparently it had been built in middle of a lake." the Daimyo muttered with surprising bitterness. but someone had to stay behind to look after my people. sure. "You're well informed. honestly. we've managed to secure some of our former trade. Kazama Arashi-sama. a barrier between us and our enemies. Oh. "Hell. "I can understand your dilemma. as you brought the legendary Fox Sage with you.though what good does that do when we can barely support ourselves? If the wall is put up again. In the time it's been down. it seemed like a good idea at the time. "I think. but he can get it done. sounding both annoyed and approving at the same time. I will soon have to go to beg the River Daimyo for financial aid. It's an honour.the only reason he lend his shinobi to aid us civilians is because he owed me a favour. "And in the end. what do you think of Keishi?" "The current leader of Hidden Rain.." Yahiko said." Shuutou spat. He's already started the reconstruction here." the Daimyo waved the apology aside and then motioned them to come closer. "I see my lord doesn't approve.it was a disaster. "We'd be knee deep in debts if Hanzo hadn't been so goddamned paranoid ." Yahiko smiled faintly." "Then stop Keishi from building the wall.. "He's my cousin twice removed. "But though 150 . "Come and sit. and thinks that because of that he's someone high and mighty. We paid almost thousand ryo for a cup of rice at the worse times thousand ryo! And our export costs got so high that no one would buy anything from us . Shuutou snorted. He had never known where the Hidden Rain Village was. he is trying to be a good leader." he said. and I don't much care for that prospect." Yahiko finally said after a moment of thought." He shook his head." he answered with a slight bow. of course I don't." "He is being an idiot . it was foolish of me to think you'd all come. it seems. where the border is closest to Hidden Rain..." Naruto leaned his elbows to the table while leaning forward to see the map the lord was pointing at. Tell me. I must say. It was a struggle to keep people just fed after Hanzo put that idiotic wall up. the famed Akatsuki leader.. He grimaced. Yahiko-san. Rebuilding the wall. shaking his head. apparently. Shuutou-dono. "The wall cannot be put up again. "I apologise for Konan's and Nagato's absence.." he said. And then up went the prices. how long did the wall stand? Its construction lasted longer than its durability!" The Daimyo slapped the map.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN The man looked up to them and then raised his eyebrow. why not hire Shinobi to enforce your will? Shinobi are mercenaries. but either way. if you tell the civilians to run. didn't take a single one yourself.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN you seem angry. Not to mention about the things he. build residential houses out of the wall's remains for those who lost their homes. you saved countless lives .." Shuutou answered a little wistfully." the Daimyo pointed towards Naruto. This is your country. or so the rumours tell. anything. There's nothing much I can do against Shinobi." "No one has forgotten what you people did during the war ." "It doesn't work quite like that. or orphanages. "And as for what comes to the goddamned wall… Keishi wants to rebuild it as so called honorary monument for Hanzo. they jump. I don't know if it's true what they say about the hideouts and the field hospitals. However. You're adjusted to being under Hanzo's power. Yahiko lifted his hand to stop the man's arguments. It's as easy as that. not as they want. but it will slow down the process if nothing else. you protected villages. "What of it?" "I want you to start another rumour. You can build something else out of them. I take it you have a plan of stopping the wall from being rebuild. Right now. And if you want to be really wise about it. Or build hospitals. If you say that the wall shouldn't be rebuilt." "Just that?" Yahiko asked. If you have resources. Yahiko wasn't done yet. Something that will stop the building of the wall." Naruto eyed his leader with newfound respect as Yahiko stood up. "Then you're not thinking like a poor man. It's more than Hidden Rain can say." the Daimyo said. A monumental temple or a statue. for the love of. The wall is only pile of bricks and stones right now. the simply stop it. not forces of nature. then hire Shinobi to protect you. "You stopped fights. they run. You are the Daimyo. hell. Things which people like to see built.. If you want the wall to not be build. "It's only thing I can think of that might work. something that concerns the Akatsuki. you helped with evacuations.we're not picky as long as there is no assassinations or anything unsightly involved. you don't seem distraught. build perfect replicate of Hidden Leaf's Hokage monument if that interests you. "did." Shuutou answered. if you tell them to jump. Hell. the shape of a wall is in no way embedded in them. Use that against him. any of Akatsuki will be happy to have assignment like that even for a low pay . I'm only a civilian. Hidden Rain and Keishi are your subjects. this is too subtle.and. employment offices.. or schools. my lord. gaining a slightly outraged look from the lord. raising his eyebrows. For that matter. that has made you think subtly." Yahiko listened quietly before finally asking. "So start thinking outside it." Yahiko murmured." "Oh. and I understand that. "If you're afraid of being assassinated. "Just listen to me." the Daimyo answered." The Daimyo stared at him as if he had spoken a completely different language. things which give people hope. they will believe you. even as orthodox as the remains of that blasted wall. "I don't know if it will be enough.and it was certainly more than Hanzo did." The Daimyo blinked and then turned to look down to the map. then use them for something useful. you know. they do as they're paid to do." Akatsuki's leader said. who almost jumped. You're only thinking about the wall and that it should not be build. "We're no longer locked in this country as if in a box.. Then he looked up to Yahiko 151 ." the Akatsuki leader and founder said decisively. "It's hard to order a man who can have you killed in blink of an eye. It really is. glaring at him. "Isn't that the organisation policy?" "Yes. the two members were more amused by his distressed pacing than worried about his anger. "Says who?" Haruka asked. "He'd make a better leader of Hidden Rain than Keishi." Shuutou said slowly. Which is not particularly hidden. of course. "And why a man like him. "And if it's in some sort of proclamation of nations or whatever. He was starting to feel annoyed with the respect thrown at him and the way the Daimyo spoke of him. looking intent." "Countries can't have two Shinobi villages." he said. "It's a pity you're not the leader of Rain." the leader snapped at the former Rain-nin. ignoring him. "Though I suppose my hopes of making Akatsuki an official organisation seem more likely to become reality . wouldn't he?" "It's not that easy Arashi-san." Yahiko answered.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN again. just… stupid." She leaned back and folded her arms with a satisfied look about her face. "Akatsuki has many enemies in Hidden Rain. wouldn't it? A whole new Shinobi village. then?" Naruto asked. thoughtfully. then Akatsuki's village can be a normal village. like he was some great mute." Naruto answered." the overweight man sighed. But to create a village of our own. now looking faintly embarrassed. In few years it will grow so big that you can announce it as the official Village Hidden in Rain..." "Why?" Naruto asked. rubbing his hand over his eyes. having that happen seems like an easy thing to do. Yahiko-san. "I see now why your Akatsuki became so famous so fast." Yahiko muttered to Naruto and Haruka later on when they were situated in the guest rooms. "That would be a perfect monument for the bastard. "It wouldn't be easy. we could build it out of Hanzo's wall." "Why not make him the leader. "follows you despite being so strong himself. Yahiko threw a glare at him but Naruto merely shrugged." she grinned wildly. But why not make Akatsuki a village of its own? It would be nice to have a permanent place to stay ." Yahiko muttered." "There's a bit more than that involved in running a village . "Not you too. Though the Akatsuki leader was more or less glaring at them. Haruka and Naruto and then buried his head in his hands with a groan.. "It would be just like big hideout." "Akatsuki has no enemies. which just happens to have mostly Shinobi living in it.and just running a mere hideout isn't as simple as you seem to think it is.next to your overblown dreams." Yahiko grimaced when Haruka leaned forward too. Yahiko looked between him.hell." he glanced at Naruto." Haruka said. "Not to mention that to create a 152 . leaning his chin to his knuckles.. x "The mere idea is ridiculous. "And then the Shinobi of original Hidden Rain either move to the new village or become missing-nin.. but. it's just." The Daimyo blinked with surprise and then looked even more thoughtful. Right? Not that different from what we're doing now. "And Hidden Rain wouldn't approve.. Of course. throwing a glare at his direction." "And after that you build a big monument. "Who can blame it if it falls over little bit after construction..." "I think we've only used few miles worth of wall now.. but we need to decide what do we build out of the remains. folding her arms and looking solemn. but still.. shall we? The wall and stopping its construction." he sighed with defeated amusement. And if it's Keishi's construction you're worried about. an enormous statue of Hanzo. looking sullen.. and has to be rebuild again.." "What about our ninja?" Naruto asked." "Yeah. Build a shrine or something. hell. "If all official Shinobi are like you two. you know. If Keishi argues against it." the female Shinobi grinned. "Just for that I'm tempted to make you the Daimyo's bodyguard. water." The Fox Sage snorted. "And Keishi can't stop the construction of that sort of thing without angering the gods." "That's a simple thing. there is no way in hell I'm becoming the leader of any Shinobi village. There should really be enough bricks in that to build a village . "The statue should totally be holding a prison scroll." he snapped when Naruto and Haruka grinned at him. Then he sighed. "I think you ought to start out small and significant. "There's lot of material in them.. Hmm. running his fingers through his hair. waste disposal! And on top of that there ought to be laws and rules. "And since the statue keeps falling." Yahiko muttered at him. "Are we going to build a memorial for them?" 153 . to keep it up straight. we just ought to build something else out of it. Food. imagining the Hanzo-statue rising and being rebuild over and over again. Yahiko gave them oddly mournful look. otherwise we end up wasting so much good material. isn't it?" Haruka asked.." "Yeah.. "For now let's concentrate onto the things which are a bit more realistic. And then we can move in. "I think we ought to build more shrines." "Yes. It should appease the people too. That shouldn't be too hard. we can just sabotage it. not so different from running a hideout." "See.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN village from nothing doesn't just involve building houses and designing particularly confusing streets but there are other things to consider. "That ought to do it. not all of it can be used. "But I'll mention the possibility of building a small monument for the fallen of Rain to the Daimyo. shut up. "Oh.. falling to sit on the couch beside them.." Naruto grinned. then Keishi will have to make one of his own for his Shinobi." Haruka nodded." the Akatsuki leader sighed." Yahiko murmured. maybe we ought to build a temple around it." Haruka calculated. And if we build it just for the civilians..and that surely the memorial will be more meaningful since it's made from the wall. "You said it yourself." Haruka said." "Let's build a village of shrines. "Use the material of the wall to build a small memorial for those Rain citizens who died in the war... several hundred miles worth of broken wall. and Haruka snorted beside him. market. frowning.." Naruto grinned. and then go up from there. thinking of the fallen of Akatsuki. we can counter that such small amount of material can be replaced ..." he said with a wicked grin." Naruto nodded.not that we're going to.. though." Still despite being pretty advanced in terms of technology. so it's hard to find a building here that isn't build with technology integrated into it. each designed to lead water into correct path ways and down to the sewers.. Naruto re-read the Tale of the Gutsy Ninja that night and rememorized all the reasons why he loved the book . it wasn't just a random add-on like it seemed to be in Hidden Leaf for example. and electricity was added to them later on. Fire had electricity too. Land of Rain was rather. Compared to the Land of Fire. judging by the destruction the war had caused in the place. and one which he thought he could maybe use to teach Shiryoku how to at least count. Naruto wondered where the Toad Sage was and what he was doing. Everywhere the streets had a finish that hid the bare ground underneath.and when Naruto thought of it. While buying it and few other books he thought his former students might like. the place wasn't that much different from any other towns Naruto had seen. wore the same fabrics even if slightly different manner. he found the Tale of the Gutsy Ninja in a basket marked as seventy-percent-discount. it took a little more work to fix their broken houses and often required the help of heavy construction machinery. It's only about thirty years old. but it hadn't quite sunk in before then. And despite being made of metal and concrete. Fighting a strange belated homesickness. and generally did the same things. So. The Capital hasn't been around for more than fifty years. The buildings were tall. Some of the buildings even had electrical doors and elevators and everything . "Well. "You should see Hidden Rain." x It wasn't until Naruto took a closer look at the capital that he realised just how different the Land of the Rain really was from the Land of the Fire." Yahiko answered with a frown.and re-learned the reason 154 . it seemed to be the Rain standard.where they weren't ruined. The main difference between Rain and Fire came from the electricity. mostly made from metal and concrete with wood only for doors. and of course he had had inkling about the differences before.and none of it was in that form of mix of patchwork it seemed like in Leaf and most of Fire Country towns and villages. The rooftops were all metal. While examining one badly damaged book store. almost massive here and there. The people were pretty much the same too. Naruto found to his amusement. Of course there was the constant rain to consider and all that. They ate the same food. Sure. that was ." She snorted. They also. dismissed the same literature.. "But that one won't be made from Hanzo's leftovers. The buildings had been created with all that technology in it from the start. most of Fire Country's towns and villages are old. The streets were all covered with asphalt and concrete . "Most of Rain's towns are pretty new." Haruka explained. progressive. they had pretty much the same problems and same issues. It was standard for every building and every street corner to have electricity. actually. for heating and powering technology and so forth. the buildings didn't seem any more durable than normal ones.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Of course. But Rain had more and it was in more extended use. It still had stores and restaurants and people living in the streets. and makes this place look pitiful in comparison. It was a little difference. Probably back in the Village Hidden in Leaves. but the idea of doing something because it was right rather than because it paid well didn't fall to completely deaf ears. "And that you came here specifically to join Akatsuki. if the Fox Sage thought it was a good idea of making a monument out of the wall's remains.and very well known. "Wading in ocean of blood might strike glorious for some. who suddenly found himself being the centre of attention." she answered. x Yahiko and Daimyo Shuutou schemed against Keishi for a day or so.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN why it had made him bawl the first time he had read it. familiarised himself with the capital and made himself even better known and liked by offering help in the construction ." Naruto wasn't the only one Yahiko was making use of. he turned it around 155 . And after all I've seen and done.and man as a who could produce up to half thousand able bodied workers out of nothing he became very well liked in very short time . It's just he was born to do this. Haruka had been used just as diligently in the Akatsuki leader's plans. One of the official Shinobi even approached Naruto on the matter. then it obviously was a good idea." He shook his head and then. stretching her arms. who was proving out to have a political sense as big as the capital itself. The official Shinobi of the Rain often merely scoffed at the mere idea." Naruto muttered later to Haruka. Yahiko.like the entire country was crying upon them. of course. before Yahiko finally grew annoyed with the lord's hesitating and simply had Haruka spread rumours about Shuutou deciding to build a monument for the people who had been killed in the war. it seemed like the closest thing to an honourable way of being a Shinobi. But I'll rather let the rain wash away the blood from my hands. "They say you're not from Rain originally. With that one little conversation. speaking to them about what it was like to be apart of the Akatsuki and how she had never felt so good about being Shinobi before. and eventually had Naruto too seed the idea of using the broken wall's remains for the monument into the minds of the civilians." the Shinobi hesitatingly said to one of Naruto's clones who were supervising the work of dozen others. Naruto didn't have to mention his so called opinion on the matter more than three times before it became well known in the capital and everyone were starting to agree." Unintentionally in that conversation he seeded a new belief among the Shinobi of Rain. She had been more or less spreading rumours among the Shinobi of Hidden Rain who resided in the town.or maybe an idealist… which might be even worse. "Not that he isn't strong. "Not a real Shinobi my ass. "I think Yahiko's more of a politician than a Shinobi . Why?" "I heard about them from one of the Leaf's Legendary Three Ninja. After all." the clone answered. he reached beyond the edge of his paper umbrella to touch the rain that never stopped. He's worse than just about any Shinobi I've ever met. was milking Naruto's fame for all it was worth. "About them and what they were doing. for dramatic effect. In the mean while Naruto. The country of Rain was considered gloomy and grim because of the endless downpour . They were helping set up the support beams of one of the newer apartment buildings. It was all part of the scheme. hell no. She didn't really need to. it couldn't be anything else . Nagato and Konan and the rest of the gang would've gotten a kick out of hearing their leader speak like that. Naruto decided to watch for his words after all. knew the motions as well. Shuutou. and so on and so on… Naruto mourned the fact that he didn't have a recorder. When Yahiko started a long winded. How dare you?" the man spat after marching in to the meeting room. Of course Keishi. they won't be like that all the time. Yahiko and Naruto were having afternoon tea. though. however. for had it not protected them all. scheming away with this rebel group! I ought to have you arrested. looking outraged. He. "I have heard of your little project. and didn't answer. Keishi's people and few of Shuutou's servants who had been serving them the tea stared with fascination as if watching a particularly spontaneous theatrical act. talking with unusual amount of stiff politeness like a nobleman or something. Yahiko had certainly not been resting idly.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN and instead of being the tears of the country. flowery speech about how the fallen people should be honoured and how Hanzo's wall was the only correct material. where the Daimyo. "Barging into the lord daimyo's house like you owned it and addressing Shuutou-dono as if he was below you! Were I not a Shinobi and a Samurai instead. after which Keishi accused him of mutiny and theft and murder and half dozen other things. the more he sounded like one of the Daimyo's court." he murmured later on to Haruka. In the mean while. It seemed that during the stay in the Daimyo's house. 156 . wore a breathing apparatus over his face which worked rather like a mask. "This being famous. dramatic outrage. I'd challenge you to a duel for this disgraceful insult!" While Naruto stared at his leader like he had grown another head which was now singing children's lullabies. showed a middle aged man with dark brown hair and piercing green eyes. He had been listening. Keishi demanded answers and apologies and explanations while Yahiko countered with accusing him of having no manners. they weren't about to let go of them. ludicrous! And what more. "You ill-mannered grunt. "People will get over it. Shuutou!" The Daimyo seemed momentarily too startled to say anything. thing… At the risk of breaking my childhood-self's heart. What did show. and the longer he went on. and full of righteous anger.was on. all which Yahiko countered with perfect. Naruto. right? I mean. I don't think I care for it much. they seemed to gain a life of their own without his intention. Naruto thought. the new leader of Rain faltered a little. arguing loudest against the murder.and really. who had noble blood and apparently had been raised accordingly. Then the verbal duel . and thus the polite argument sounded more like well rehearsed play than actual honest to god fight. have you no shame?" he spat back. like all of official Rain Shinobi. It wasn't a surprise when the news of what they were doing eventually reached Hanzo's successor and Keishi appeared to the capital. but Yahiko certainly wasn't. "To build something so useless out of the remains of that great wall. here I find you. With his fame attached to them. patting his back in mocking comfort. He jumped up to his feet and banged his hands against the table. hiding half of his features. The entire Country of Rain had so little good in it for a long while that now that they had Akatsuki and the Fox Sage. the rain gained the meaning of purification. escorted by dozen Shinobi. right? They will eventually move on and leave me alone… right?" She grinned. treasonous action out loud?" "Oh." "Then perhaps it is time to make ancient traditions the new practice. "Not of the material of the wall at least. 157 . Build your monument of some other stone. "I shall send a word later on if I wish to meet you. It worked just fine for him. But not by practice. "Is it truly the stone that carries the meaning." Keishi said before giving a stiff nod. rebuild the wall and I will bring it down. "I'm a fox. Keishi gave him a wide eyed look. you know. apparently having won some point in their verbal match. "Do you wish to take residence in the palace? I am afraid Yahikosan and Kazama-san are occupying the usual guest rooms with their companion. and not the shape?" Keishi parried. Shuutou… dono. by ancient traditions." Yahiko moved on offensive." "Alright. that in disgrace fell down?" "You consider the stone that of disgrace." Yahiko countered. and turning to leave. he leaned back and folded his arms. it is part of this country." he added with a cheerful tone." Naruto answered. Yahiko was on lead with fourteen to twelve. somewhat begrudgingly. for the first time taking full advantage of his newfound fame." The Hidden Rain's leader gave him a look of consideration. Keishi frowned and then glanced around." he then said graciously. Or walls." Keishi said after the speech was finished." he added. as the new traditions have obviously became old. so you would need to stay in the smaller guest rooms…" he seemed to take great pleasure from saying the words. "You have given me much to think of. "I imagine the famed Sage would too side with the ways of the old." Keishi defended. he was ignoring just about every single rule of this odd." he said." "And yet as long as hidden rain stands on the ground of this country. "And should it not be right for a monument to be build of unsullied stone than from one such of wall. It sounded like a challenge. "…smaller rooms are fine. "The Sage sides with what he believes is right. looking deeply satisfied as leaned back. at Shuutou who was faintly smiling and then at Naruto who had been ticking points in his head. civil battle field." "No other stone would carry such a meaning. I'm not from around here originally. but I cannot permit the construction of this monument. it must go into the reconstruction of the new wall. What do I know of your laws?" Naruto answered happily. It belongs to Hidden Rain and it is us to do whatever we will." Yahiko answered. We don't much care for rules. oddly enough. "It matters not. at the moment. the stone does not belong to you. "And all things within this country fall under the domain of Daimyo Shuutou-dono by right. "Also. "You would suggest such an offensive. but there was a look of dismay on his face. and yet you wish to rebuild the wall?" was Yahiko's counter attack." "By right. Judging by the amused look Shuutou was giving him and the defeated look on Yahiko's face.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "You speak well and with passion. The Hidden Rain's leader's eyes narrowed at the sight of him. "I must think on this." Shuutou said. perhaps. "Does that make your monumental wall then a monument of disgrace?" "Sometimes disgraces ought to remembered for people to learn from them. Then. before Shuutou started to chuckle. Kazama-san?" Shuutou asked after managing to quell his stifled laughter. but I think you can from now on concentrate onto the commoners." "Thankfully no.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN There was a small silent after the door closed behind the Rain-nin." Naruto snorted. sighed." Yahiko murmured with exasperation. and glanced at the mirthful Daimyo. Yahiko. I couldn't understand half the things you were saying. Besides. 158 . Shuutou-dono." Naruto shrugged. But I know a gigantic fox who would happily do it for me. "I take it I didn't ruin the whole thing. on other hand. you can't honestly expect me to know how to deal with your courtly-speech." "Could you really bring the wall down just like that. "Leave Keishi to me. though. "Probably not. you don't just bring the facts to the table like that! What were you thinking. "Arashi-san. saying you'll bring the wall down?" "With you being all smoke and mirrors. I thought someone ought to be a little honest. Keishi lost his people's approval both due to the wish to reconstruct the wall and the fact that he lost to Yahiko on the political battlefield. things moved out of the capital. The idea of a Daimyo ruling a country was both old and new for Rain . would be pretty much like small Shinobi village." Despite Yahiko's earlier arguments. He'd make a brilliant leader. And going from an underground organisation to fully official one required lot of work. Naruto and Yahiko returned to hideout to bring the new changes to effect.and probably just about every other country as well . Secondly. there was a new gleam in his eyes. "First thing will be the start of the construction of our new head quarters. Akatsuki should get the control over Hidden Rain. The hideouts will be kept in good condition and inhabited." Yahiko said after he had explained the whole ordeal to everyone. Of course. And Shuutou was more than prepared to show his people how well they were off if they just let him do his thing. "I still think we ought to make Yahiko the leader. While Haruka stayed behind as the Daimyo's bodyguard and liaison from Akatsuki. "Though I get you. the official Akatsuki.as it had been ruled by Hanzo for so long. but now that Shuutou was firmly on their side. it had been Nagato controlling Yahiko's body back then. their alliance was powerful. Since he knew that Pain had been the leader of Hidden Rain in the future. though." Haruka said. completing their own goals. what did Shinobi know of things like trade and politics and economy. of course. and his efforts to replenish the economy and Akatsuki's efforts just to make things generally better for the country. "We will be official from now on and need a place where we can be found. it turned out. though… securing our organisation's position will be the main issue. First and foremost they would continue as they had. I really do." Naruto murmured. Mostly it was due to Naruto threatening to bring the wall down the moment it would be completed that ended the discussion there. but the fact remained. Eventually. it seemed right for him. but as Shuutou made his moves. Akatsuki was not only made an official organisation and given some important tasks . we will still maintain their condition should they ever be useful again. everyone saw why Daimyos existed and why Shinobi should stick to what they were good at." Yahiko was quick to remind them over and over that it wasn't so easy.most of which were things they were already doing like helping with rebuilding and keeping peace . but Yahiko's more subtle efforts paid them well on another battlefield. "We can't make anything. and whispers of so called new vote for other leader for Hidden Rain were already spreading. they'd 159 . which for Akatsuki even in times of peace never changed. Really. Better than any other they've had in Hidden Rain so far. and though the temporary field hospitals we made will be closed for now. The Rain Daimyo was gaining more power each day. what had they ever done for them? It was not Shinobi alliances or battles or anything else that kept countries fed after all.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN CHAPTER 17 – BUILDING ON RAIN The monument's construction started not much later. From now on. Hidden Rain isn't exactly ours to do as we will.but Hidden Rain's reputation also took a huge dent. And there were buildings. Yahiko. Yahiko was however going to put Akatsuki offices to the further corners of the country and. streets and stairs outside the head quarters." Naruto mumbled amusedly when he looked over the plans. All it really was missing were shops and a ramen stand." Naruto muttered. That had been especially hard thing for Keishi to swallow. it fell only a little short of a village. so instead most of the wall's remains were used in things like making some of the foundations. to the capital as well. in definite plural. and with so many people in our debt we should be able to collect enough to get good start. thanks to the recession. though with firm parameters that followed the Akatsuki rules. they would also take missions like normal Shinobi. But with the apartment buildings.though of course not one of them would do as Shuutou said without Yahiko's say so. it was decided that Hanzo's wall's remains would be used in the building. but it had no longer much say in the matter. "Why am I with this group again. x 160 . even if one they had never actually attended to.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN answer to the Daimyo . the workers…" "Materials we can get cheap.especially if there were civilians involved. "The materials. but Yahiko and Shuutou had been relentless." Konan murmured worriedly. Akatsuki would be the one called to deal with it and not Hidden Rain . Officially. If necessary we can hold a fund raising or something. as it had been their "duty" before. "I don't think we have the money for work like this. The rest…" Yahiko trailed and looked up to at Naruto with a sly expression. why?" Nagato's soft. So now. if there was incident like a battle or something of that sort. and could spread out like any civilian organisation would. It wasn't exactly village sized. rubbing his hand over his eyes. though. One could even said that Akatsuki was Rain Country's brand new police force. And that you have some sort of grudge against me. rather than in making of the buildings themselves. they weren't constricted within single spot. all we will need is a few professionals.and after some bickering which Yahiko won. Beyond that. they were Rain Country's new emergency force. all wrapped in carefully designed streets which gave more than plenty of room for buildings to be added on later. and they had the people's approval. the hospital. As an organisation. "I'm starting to think you're some sort of crossbreed between a snake and a fox. "And here I thought we weren't making a village." he sighed. suddenly realising that of course there would be reason why Yahiko had made him help construction back in the capital. "… right. Yahiko however didn't want the whole of the headquarters made from the stuff as he seemed to have deep rooted grudge towards the very idea of the wall. amused chuckle was answer enough. of course. And as for workers. the library. Hidden Rain really didn't like it much. The building of the headquarters begun soon . the potential ninja-academy and of course the tower which would be Akatsuki's main building. The headquarters would be build smack in middle of the Rain Country so that it would be as within the reach as possible. the research section. he and Shiryoku went through meditation sessions and trained in simple Taijutsu. so he would be doing most of the work with his clones. the water still got in and Naruto had to always have handful of clones bucketing it away. who wouldn't even ask for pay later on…" The only light in Naruto's gloomy. though most often he was with her in person. He tried not to think too deeply into the work and just do it. She was still getting better. Oh. and the experience of teaching her was just about the only memory he looked forward to have. though. Being blind. especially since her ability to sense nature's energy didn't help her much there. "You'd make a fortune in construction with that skill of yours.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Of course the problems with Keishi and the Hidden Rain weren't over just like that. but Naruto was happy to say he didn't need to bother thinking about it." Naruto answered.though he did get some of them. though he actually rather doubted it. to come with him to the construction site. But I guess I've gotten used to being on the move all the time that sticking to one spot seems boring to me. a very big head ache. It left him weak as he didn't get the chakra of the clones back. target practice was the hardest thing for her to learn. she sometimes even managed to hit them. what I wouldn't give to be able to create half thousand reliable workers on the spot. He eventually started the habit of running away from the building site towards the end of the day and keeping minimum fifteen miles between him and his clones when they dispelled. Targets they mostly used were most often inanimate objects. His new bosses didn't seem to notice him having any difficulties and praised him to high heavens. there's no doubt about that. the building of Akatsuki head quarters began . work filled days ended up being Shiryoku who had demanded. but digging in the pouring rain wasn't fun . so that his clones would know what to do and where to start the following day. And end of each day he got to assimilate the experiences of his clones. it got old the second day and plain agonising the third when he realised that some twelve hours of experience timed five hundred in his head within few seconds caused a head ache. and eventually upgraded to the use of weapons and target practice. After Yahiko and Shuutou had spent about a week exchanging letters and haggling about money and finding the right workers." 161 . after all. which meant that each day of labour he experienced some five hundred times. as his official student. and thus melted into the background seamlessly for her. While the clones worked and the builders barked instructions and the foundations of the not-reallya-village-but-almost were completed. Naruto had one of his clones with the girl at all times.even when they pitched some tents and pavilions around the building sites. but at least that way he didn't need to suffer through the knowledge of same things done over and over again by hundreds of copies of himself . Aside from him there were only three professional builders. one architect and handful volunteers from Akatsuki who would be taking part in the construction. "Will we move in once the headquarters are finished?" she asked from the sanctuary of their shared tent while Naruto watched group of his clones working on the foundations of the eventual hospital. "Maybe. So. "Most of Akatsuki will.and after that Naruto was probably busier than he had ever been in life. and when Naruto had his shadow clones serve as targets. He was too busy with other things. "You wouldn't happen to be looking for another career?" one of the builders asked. Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "But the war is over, isn't it? You don't need to go out to stop fighting anymore, sensei." "No, but there are other things for me to do," he answered, folding his arms. The war was over, there was a peace and though Yahiko was determined to take the most difficult way possible to the seat of Hidden Rain's leader, even that goal had been reached. Once the headquarters would be finished, Akatsuki's standing would be secure - and Yahiko had grown so strong and shrewd that for a while now Naruto hadn't had much of a reason to worry about him. Or Nagato and Konan for that matter. The only reason why they weren't any better known for their strength was because they were too humble stand out. "Besides, I only came here because I wanted to do something good in the war," Naruto said. "And like you said, the war is over. Aside from this goddamned building, there's not much for me to do around here." Though given half a moment, Yahiko could probably conjure him plenty of stuff to do, which didn't appeal to him that much. Fighting and protecting was one thing. Running errands… had never been his thing. She hesitated before reaching out and taking a hold of his sleeve. "You won't leave me behind, right, Arashi-sensei? You promised to teach me…" she said hesitatingly. "I'm your pupil, right?" Naruto looked down to her and then smiled. "Right," he said, patting her pale blond hair. "Nothing stops you from coming with me, if I go." While the construction progressed, he heard rumours about Yahiko going head to head with Keishi over and over again until finally it was made official. The border wall's remains would be used in rebuilding and creation of new hospitals and schools and such - and the parts of the wall which were in too poor state to be used in making of buildings would be used in repairing of streets and such. Some monuments would be perched up, as well as few shrines, but mostly the wall would be used for useful things, just like Yahiko had wanted. Yahiko, Shuutou and Keishi were becoming slowly but steadily the three leaders of Country of Rain, it seemed, and just about everything was decided in arguments between them. With Yahiko enforcing equality and very ready to beat Keishi back to humility when ever it was necessary, Shuutou had just as much say as Daimyo should, and Hidden Rain lost its overwhelming ability to control the country. Of course, the Daimyo didn't become the single ruler, as there was the nobility, the council and everything else to consider, but he gained more power than modern Daimyos were accustomed to have. Whether it was Shuutou's power, or Yahiko's new influence or the fact that Akatsuki was on the brink of growing explosively was unclear, but it all seemed to make their neighbouring nations curious. Just as Naruto was starting to figure out the gist of plumbing under the notso-patient guidance of the professional builders, he heard that couple of Leaf-nin had arrived to Rain - and they wanted to see the construction site. x "What do they want to see this place for?" Naruto asked with honest confusion leaning in to listen a rather old and rough radio while holding a microphone to his mouth. "This is just a construction site - hell, there aren't even proper lodgings here," he muttered, glancing a little annoyed around the tent he and Shiryoku shared. Thanks to a portable stove it was liveable 162 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN even in the coldest of nights, but it was nowhere near pleasant. Proof of that was poor Shiryoku who lay on her bed, covered in three blankets. She was going through her second bout of flu thanks to living in a tent during winter. "Yes, but it's the next best thing to checking us out," Yahiko's voice answered, crackling slightly in the radio's speakers. "We don't really have an office and we don't permit nonAkatsuki members to our hideouts after all - and currently there are only four of our members in the capital. The only polite way of meeting us is to… well, visit the construction site." Naruto snorted. "Aside from me and Shiryoku, there are only five Akatsuki members here and they're all non-ninja," he answered. "What a lot we are to seek meetings with." The Akatsuki leader chuckled. "They know that we wouldn't let them to the construction site without proper escort to meet them," he answered. "Nagato and I are coming over just little before they arrive, so you don't have to worry about having to play a proper host. We'll cover that." "Well, that's nice. Still. What do they want with us?" "What don't they? Sure, we didn't make that much noise during the war but we became pretty well known thanks to the Prison Scrolls," Yahiko answered. "And as far as I can tell, no one was able to crack those seals, or duplicate them. Then there is you; not many Shinobi went through this country without noticing you - and you talked with Jiraiya-sensei, too, he must've reported about you to the Hokage. And finally, there is what we've been doing lately. We undermined the Hidden Rain, we more or less made Shuutou-dono the leader of this country, and now we're becoming official organisation. There aren't that many Shinobi organisations out of hidden villages after all - Akatsuki might end up being one of the biggest ones, actually…" "Okay, okay, okay. We're noticeable, I get it," Naruto answered with a sigh. Thankfully though they weren't as noticeable as the darker future Akatsuki had been. And if they one day would be, hopefully they were noticeable in a better way. "Isn't this sort of thing risky, though? For us I mean, letting them in here." "Well, not really," Yahiko said thoughtfully. "We're not exactly being secretive about what we're doing, so it was more or less inevitable that someone would come to test our barriers. And at this point it is better for us to be completely honest about ourselves, than be secretive and cause suspicion." He was quiet for a moment before asking. "How is the construction coming along anyway?" "Faster now that the sewers are done," Naruto answered. "The foundations have been more or less laid out too; we're just finishing the pipe work before bringing in the cement and such. Tsukuru-san decided that, since I'm pretty much the majority of our workers, it would be quickest if we build everything simultaneously instead of going from building to building. So it will take a bit longer before any one building is finished, but as whole the headquarters will be finished sooner than originally planned, if that makes sense." "That sounds brilliant," Yahiko said. "Does he have an estimate on how long it will take?" "Roughly about ten months, probably a bit more. Once the foundations are done, the rest will be easy up until the finishing, as the walls and stuff are made elsewhere," Naruto shrugged even though his leader couldn't see it. He couldn't wait until they got to that point - because once there would be walls, there would be roof and, finally, no more working in the damn 163 Esama FOX IN THE RAIN rain! "The finishing touches might take a bit longer, though. Routing out power and stuff, windows, doors… stuff like that. I'd say that it's best to prepare for a year." "He said three years to me, when we were planning this," Yahiko answered, the transmission breaking a little towards the end. "He probably didn't know he'd have five hundred me's working fourteen hours per day, every day," Naruto snorted while trying to tune the radio a little so that it wouldn't crackle so much. "I'm inch away from demanding pay from you, you know. For each and every one of my clones. And triple for myself." "It's for the good of the organisation," Yahiko answered with suspiciously cheery tone that carried over even though the poor radio. Naruto could almost hear his wide grin in his voice too. "Surely you want to do the right thing, don't you? Think of all the orphans that will be living in the headquarters, Arashi, think of the children!" "I've never liked kids that much, they tend to be whiny brats who are never satisfied with anything," Naruto muttered, throwing a glance at Shiryoku who was coughing in her sleep. "You're coming here tomorrow, right Yahiko?" he asked. "See if you can bring some cold medicine for Shiryoku. She's running a fever again." "Again? If she's not doing well there, you should send her here, Arashi," Yahiko answered seriously. "Even if she is your student, construction site is no place for a little girl anyway." "I know, and trust me I've told it to her many times, but she's stubborn and won't have any of it, the brat," Naruto sighed with a slightly sad smile. She reminded of himself, at times. "Just bring something to her, at least something for her cough if nothing else. Oh, and maybe some clothes - actually, tell Konan that Shiryoku is about to grow out of her old clothes and could use some new ones, she'll probably know what to get better than you do." "I'll tell her - and I'll get the medicine," Yahiko promised. "Is there anything else to report from there? Something I should know and prepare for before the Leaf-nin arrive there?" "Nothing really. Not much really has happened here," Naruto shrugged. "Though I would suggest the lot of you to get proper waterproof footwear. You won't manage ten steps here in sandals." x "I can see why you suggested better footwear," Nagato murmured while peering over the muddy construction site from underneath the cover of Naruto's tent flap. "I imagine even chakra walking won't help around here." "It does help when you get floods and such," Naruto answered, remembering much to his dismay how watery it had been before they had gotten the sewers somewhat functioning. "But chakra walking when there are puddles, pits of mud and every random patch of actual hard ground… it can get a bit messy." Shaking his head he turned to assorting the box of medicine Yahiko and Nagato had brought with them. "Did you guys raid the hideout medicine cupboard to bring all these?" he asked, eying one full bottle of pills for headaches. "I don't need half of these. All I needed was something for her cough and fever." 164 "The black bottle is for the cough. anyway. Naruto spread his orange cloak over her blankets before returning to the table to pack up the rest of the medicine." Naruto answered and a slight frown. Naruto nodded. "As lucky as she can be in these circumstances. though she did make a face before accepting the cough drops . "Better be too hot than too cold. Lucky was not being blind and in the care of him of all people." he added. "And I wouldn't call her lucky. awake but too tired to contribute to the conversation in anyway . He hadn't known what to think of it before. After inspecting the bottle of cough drops. And yet… Nagato didn't seem to share the sentiment." he said quietly. she did. How old his Shiryoku anyway?" "Any age between seven or nine. for a moment feeling warmth of relief towards the upcoming meeting.it's been four years…" he trailed away. "Nagato. Usually his Rinnegan were hard to read. but the confusion was so strong in them that it was nearly impossible to miss. Like many others.and grimaced afterwards. 165 . we didn't meet Jiraiya-sensei until we were almost twelve. It's seems like it's been ages since we saw him the last time . Nagato hesitated before sitting to a rough bench beside Naruto's. "I don't know." Naruto said firmly.someone else might fall ill or get injured. "To see Tsukuru-san?" "He had some things he wanted to be added to the plans. Nagato shrugged and didn't answer." she whispered. we might as well be well prepared.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN "Thanks to Shuutou-dono. Naruto blinked with surprise. glancing towards the bed where Shiryoku was sitting." Nagato shrugged." "Since it's my student? What does that mean?" Naruto asked after finally finding a water soluble medicine which would help with the fever." Nagato allowed." With a slightly irritated sigh. "And Yahiko felt that since it's your student we're talking about.and being blinded had not helped her keeping track of her age. I guess it's better to have a good store of medicine ." Nagato said after the girl had fallen asleep. He hesitated for a moment before frowning. "It's gonna help you get better. glancing outside once more before moving to join Naruto by the table. "Jiraiya-sensei is one of the two Leaf-nin. "Where did Yahiko go anyway?" he asked while fetching his water bottle and a cup. Shiryoku had been an orphan for longer than she had been member of Akatsuki . "She's lucky. we've had enough to go around . watching as Naruto mixed the medicine with the water and then moved to help Shiryoku feed it. "Try and get some sleep. Not to mention about the fact that she hadn't known how to count before Naruto had started teaching her." he said instead. reaching for a cloth to wipe some cold sweat from the blind girl's forehead before tucking the blankets tighter around her and making sure her feet weren't cold. After making sure that she was actually trying to get some sleep." Nagato nodded. Lucky was family and living happily ever after.and in a place like these. Konan and I. "Is there something wrong about that?" Naruto asked. but if it was Jiraiya then there was nothing to be worried about. It's a little hard to tell and she can't remember." Naruto said.too shy to try too. "Comfy?" "Too hot. squirming in her bed to get into a better position before lying down with a sigh. The girl accepted the medicine without a fuss. I've only known you for about two years. "Old hag's still with the village. wasn't Minato as Naruto had suspected. It was Tsunade." he said. as more plans meant essentially more work for him and the workload still ahead of him made him often seriously consider running away to the uncharted territories to live as a savage. So instead he had gone back to business as usual and continued practicing welding while few dozen of his clones worked with the streets. Nagato was usually so quiet that it was easy to forget. let's go and find Yahiko. Aside from the memories of four hours of trying to get one of the excavators to work after it had stopped. Naruto had decided to not listen to them." Naruto blinked with surprise at the hopeful tone. some handful attempted to unclog one of the sewer entrances. but he was probably one of the most sensitive guys Naruto had ever met. As they headed out of the tent. when one of his clones dispersed. x By the time the Leaf-nin arrived. Jiraiya was one of the Leaf-nin. I can give you two a tour around the site." Nagato smiled faintly and bowed his head for a moment before nodding. Like Nagato had said. He had just somehow mastered the art of the blow torch and wondered if he would soon know more about construction work than he'd ever know about being a ninja. 166 . picking up the Tale of the Gutsy Ninja as he settled to watch over Naruto's sick student." he said.Jiraiya was the closest thing to a parent he had.and probably for Konan and Yahiko too." he said. I mean. what we've become? Yahiko. Yahiko and Nagato had seen all there was to see about the construction site . and the rest few hundred worked on whatever other four dozen tasks there were to be done. right. his clone sat down. And Jiraiya… Jiraiya had taken him and his two friends in when they had been alone and barely surviving. Then he looked up. Then he frowned slightly at himself. he got the first glimpse of their foreign guests. Well. though they might not show it so plainly . Tsukuru. "No problem. his eyebrows racing up towards his hairline. "Thanks Arashi. "You know him too. proud of being part of what you created. and I'm proud of you guys. reaching out to squeeze the other's shoulder compassionately. Konan and I. Arashi? Do you think he will be proud to see what we've done here. For Nagato . a member of Shuutou's court and one Rainnin. reaching for his work cloak . "If he isn't. "Hell.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN frowning at his hands. however. then he's either stupid or blinder than Shiryoku could ever hope to be. who had arrived escorted by two Akatsuki members. and then some. he deserves kick to the nuts." Naruto grinned before creating a clone. huh?" he murmured. Naruto lowered his blowtorch while around the construction site all his clones stopped what they were doing in surprise.which wasn't much . The other.which despite being ugly brownish colour was even better than his orange cloak just because it had a hood. "Now. If he isn't.and settled down to a tent next to Naruto's where they mostly went over the plans of the site with the architect. you can see the full extend of the horror you've had me working in. huh?" Naruto asked as Nagato packed the blueprints away. trying to make it stop dribbling water to his face. "Tsunade-hime?" Nagato asked curiously. and then turning to head to the tent where Nagato and Yahiko were .and are you using wind manipulation to shave? What the hell?" Yahiko asked. "When was the last time you shaved?" Somewhat self consciously Naruto touched his chin. "Are you coming with us to meet them?" the orange haired leader asked while Naruto undressed his helmet and ran his hand through his hair.. With the way he was desperately keeping his hands still so that he wouldn't twiddle them. "Do we have a battle plan for this little meeting?" "Let them see what they can. raising his eyebrow at what he was doing and then snorting. "Show time. And he was interested about the old hag too ." Naruto said to one of the builders near by and created a clone to replace him in the welding. One of the worse things that came with being adult. "Well. "Tell him if you need more workers. Naruto hummed. Well.and it's not like anyone will miss me. giving him a look. not just because he had few encounters with Naruto. "Besides. This is nothing compared to some of my attacks. construction workers aren't meant to look good. explain some upcoming things to them. "I'm curious to see why Tsunade-hime is here .mostly due to horrible. But Tsunade? Why her? Even as a Hokage she hadn't been that diplomatic. Thankfully." "Depends on who you ask . you don't pay me to look pretty. "Not exactly royalty or nobility as the civilian nobles know." Yahiko said. and I'm a-ok!" Naruto answered with a grin and brushed off the cut of hairs from his cheek .Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Jiraiya wasn't yet the Toad Hermit so it made sense that she wasn't the Legendary Sucker. I'm taking a break." "Tsk. Hell. pointing at the clone. with few hundred of mes around. Gathering some wind chakra to his palm." 167 . All I gotta do is layer my skin with chakra and then form a blade of wind chakra to my palm." he muttered." he added. He was trying to hide it. "Oi. horrible boredom. he smoothed it over his chin. He wanted to see Jiraiya and was curious about what sort of explanation was behind their little check up. "You're just jealous that I don't have to use a razor.now very smooth cheek. he had . but as close as it gets to a princess with shinobi." Yahiko said with a snort. except in general terms. you might clean yourself up a little. "Maybe I can get her to take a look at Shiryoku." Naruto answered. if she's really some sort of nobility. it was obvious.. developed a trick against the annoying facial hair. "She's the granddaughter of the first Hokage. but… why was she here? Sending Jiraiya made sense. The two were wrapping up the blueprints and by the sound of it Tsukuru was yelling at group of clones near by. speak them nothing of the place's future functions.though calling her that right now was probably a very bad idea.he already had connections so he was the best man for the job." he muttered. one way to find out.though one of the clones had probably already informed them of their visitors.. old man." Naruto answered. but because Jiraiya had personally trained the Akatsuki leaders .. but Naruto had known him long enough to know how nervous he really was. "You're gonna end up cutting yourself. you don't pay me at all. he mused with a sigh while scratching the irritating fuzz." "Well. Jiraiya stepped forward to examine his two former students. led in by one of the Akatsuki members. So. "But what the devil drove you to using Ninjutsu for something like this? Something used for fighting and you're using it to beautify yourself. While Tsunade and the other visitors tried to dry themselves off. The fact that Naruto was in his ugly murky brown work clothes and had no signature umbrella anywhere near also made him difficult to identify." Jiraiya said with tone of wonder as he saw the two. known some interesting people. I once knew a woman who used chakra to. And this is nothing as chakra induced beautifying procedures go. Well. and though for a moment he had seemed a little less nervous." he said. "Well." "You've.. It was a remarkably unremarkable event. He was so known for mask. huh?" Nagato muttered. If even that. "Well. Tsunade and the others walked in. Nagato and Yahiko tried to hide their anxiousness. He nodded again.." the red head said. Jiraiya saw his face for the first time..Esama FOX IN THE RAIN Yahiko just shook his head while Nagato gave Naruto a thoughtful look as the blonde finished his instant-shave and used another Fuuton jutsu to blow away any evidence his former facial hair." "I am fighting . But by that time it was too late to even begin to wonder where he had seen it the last time . you can tell us all about them later. you know. looking out of the tent and the party of visitors just about to enter. "You have to teach me how to do that." x As Jiraiya. And by the looks of it. And Yahiko and Nagato were just about to meet two of them. though. after two years of acquaintance .which sadly enough only encompassed two meetings and not much else really." Naruto made a motion over his chest. where is Konan-chan? I want to know how well she blossomed. Yahiko. the anxiety returned to his features.and the opponent is a very severe annoyance.just gotten his mask. "Nagato.in the construction site it had only gotten into his way so he hadn't worn it for months now. orange clothes and umbrella that without them he was basically in disguise. One could say so. clothes and gear. Most likely because Jiraiya was more interested in Yahiko and Nagato and was listening to Tsunade who by the sound of it was complaining about the rain. "She was also over fifty years old and looked like she was only twenty. Jiraiya didn't even recognise him without the mask on." the white haired sage said.. 168 . My teacher measured. probably. make no mistake about that. re-meet. huh?" Yahiko then asked curiously. but weren't too successful." Naruto grinned. "Now." Yahiko and Nagato both looked at him as if he was mad. "Hundred and six centimetres. Naruto thought to himself while shrugging his shoulders. seeming pleased. looking mildly disturbed. The orange haired leader shook his head. "Hundred and six. "Yep. haven't you two grown?" Naruto stepped back a bit to watch the reunion.and should've . Naruto belatedly realised that he could've . "Right now we have company. nodding to himself as he took in their faces. ahem. yes. motioning the woman to step closer. "I didn't." he then added.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN looking around expectantly.." she said. Sensei. but one of these days I am going to assassinate Yahiko and no one can do a thing to stop me. right?" he then asked. It was a very interesting sort of meeting to witness. "It's a pleasure to meet you again. Something about Tsunade. He just decided I did. shallow somehow. "Konan is elsewhere." "Not so bad. politics and politics." Naruto answered with a snort. And so was finding out that Tsunade shared Yahiko's knack in that civil battle field of politeness. he's not even paying me salary." she answered and sat down beside him." Yahiko said with awkward laugh. Not off like they were fakes or about to betray them and kill them and leave them bleeding in puddles." Yahiko assured and compliments were away. He had never seen Tsunade dealing with any other sort of people except either debt collectors." the Fox Sage sighed and glanced at the member of the Daimyo's court who was hastily going through some papers. folding her arms. being a degraded from glory to construction working?" she asked with a grin. Tsk. Naruto sat down next and watched." Haruka grinned. He had odd idea that it wasn't why the Third had send her. aside from her strength and medical knowledge. "Besides there's so many of us currently in the capital that Shuutou-dono has his backside covered better than he can imagine. Then he glanced at the Rain-nin standing beside the civilian. We've heard lot about what you've been doing here.. maybe she had been raised like that. who had been working for the past months in the capital as Shuutou's bodyguard. "What's with the overalls? And brown doesn't suit you at all. Maybe there had been other reason to make her the Fifth Hokage. so watching her meet a foreign Shinobi like Yahiko and Nagato on somewhat friendly grounds. though. directing the words to the kunoichi who rolled her eyes. by the way. but off like there was just something wrong. She seemed. Maybe it was the whole princess thing. So. Shouldn't you be in the capital?" "Shoya replaced me. There was something off about Jiraiya and Tsunade. "You haven't changed much. "And I will pickpocket his dead body. "Don't judge me when I'm building your new home." Jiraiya sighed morosely before glancing at Tsunade and the others." "No. subordinates or enemies. tsk. after all. but she laid the politeness just as thickly as any civilian court member Naruto had witnessed. "Or I just might booby-trap your new apartment... "You know Tsunade-hime already. actually. "Working in the mud like a normal person. "Shuutou wants to appear 169 ." "That's what you get from volunteering. the pleasure is ours. I'm sorry that you didn't get the chance to meet her again. it was a new experience. I was looking forward to seeing her." a familiar voice said and looking up Naruto saw that one of the Akatsuki-nin escorting their guests was Haruka." "Pity. "I told you training them was a darn good idea. how's it been. and gave a smile to the two Akatsuki leaders. You know." Haruka sighed. "What's that about?" "Politics. "Yes. dealing with the matters of the organisation." Naruto answered with a faint grin. Or any other sort of clones except for Kage Bunshin. who aside from mesh under shirt was wearing civilian clothes. "You're the guy who made all the clones out there. and with this much water around they would be ideal. Like Jiraiya." he answered and waved the matter aside. Tsunade. She looked curious. though. Tsunade-hime. "And who are you then?" Naruto hesitated and then shrugged casually." Naruto nodded pleasantly and glanced at Jiraiya who was now looking at him with a mild frown. Naruto shrugged." he said." For a moment Tsunade didn't seem certain about whether o be flattered or insulted. "I studied. he's probably gonna do some sneaking around. she didn't exactly appear to be Shinobi at that moment." Naruto nodded. "And no. Yahiko. "Hello. "Oh come on. "And this isn't exactly a holiday resort. but they're pretty hard to maintain in large quantities as far as I know.. "I didn't think they'd sent Kunoichi of your calibre for diplomatic missions. She still wasn't wearing the clothes she preferred in Naruto's time. not sure what else to say." she said. Unless Hidden Rain is going to steal our secrets of sewer working. That's an art of Hidden Leaf. "As far as I know." 170 . "One day maybe." "Yeah. was looking at him.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN like he is in charge of this operation. water clones? How did you get the chakra to make so many?" "I have large chakra reserves. And he can't start completely ignoring the Hidden Rain so he killed two birds with one stone and hired a Rain-nin as his man's bodyguard. eying the Rain-nin for a moment before shrugging his shoulders. Jiraiya and Yahiko were now exchanging the latest general gossip about what other countries were doing for after-war-reconstruction. Jiraiya-san." she snorted." Naruto said. Hot shot medic-nin who fought all Sand poisons. Like anyone who had anything do with the war didn't hear about you and what you did. Who else could it be? "Not to mention the whole Three Legendary Ninja business. they're not water clones. What's important is why you are here. but with you. Nagato and two of the Three Legendary Ninja of the Leaf here. She decided on latter and frowned." "Hmm.. Of course we gotta keep eye on that guy. stepping a little closer. doing any sabotage would be a suicide." he looked her up and down." Naruto nodded." he said with a snort and looked back to the Akatsuki leaders and the Leaf-nin who were done chancing compliments." "As far as you know?" Haruka asked curiously. lifting a single brow at him. He gave the man a wave." Naruto added. "What are they. "I can't do water clones. "Yo. "You know me?" Tsunade asked. "But that's not important." Naruto answered with a faint grin. "Not much to see here. on other hand. "The Fox Sage. and I'm the Kage of Hidden Leaf. but the casual-but-nice outfit was certainly no Shinobi-gear. How do you know it?" Tsunade asked with a mild frown. Water clones might be good enough for some work." Naruto shrugged. Or maybe a world's end. TBC 171 . The red head shrugged. What do you think? I could go around preaching people about upcoming messiah. narrowing his eyes for a moment before hiding the expression behind a grin. "Still. Arashi Clones United. I'm my own union of construction workers. "We're currently lobbying for proper wages and health benefits." Jiraiya's answering grin was more than a little strained. huh?" he murmured." Nagato explained while Yahiko moved aside to greet the member of Shuutou's court properly and receive the Daimyo's latest missive. Arashi-san?" he asked with surprise and looked him up and down before eying his face thoughtfully. and it will be mostly thanks to him we can ever finish this place at all. "His clones are behind most of what's been build so far. then bodyguard for a village and now construction worker? Still going for the Carnival Mystic spot?" Naruto grinned. "That's you. huh?" Jiraiya muttered with a faint smile." "You go through occupations like socks. Whichever comes first. That's what you really look like. though I've been giving a thought of becoming a wandering prophet. "First time seeing you without a mask. "First circus freak.Esama FOX IN THE RAIN The white haired sage raised his eyebrows. "What's with the get up? The weather's finally worn you down?" "Arashi works in the construction." "Yeah." Naruto nodded.