Darkness Falls

Chapter 29

Haru no Kuni

It had been an enjoyable three weeks for the four figures that now stood at the massive gates of the village. Naruto had treated all three of them to separate dates throughout the week, though his date with Koyuki had garnered the most attention from the populace. Though the two of them should have expected that, since it was their own Daimyo out with a young man in an intimate manner. However, since the young man in question was viewed as a hero throughout the land, many had rejoiced at the fact that the young princess had landed such a fine young man. Aside from treating his girls, Naruto had also managed to sneak away for a few hours alone and acquired some souvenirs. A few that would be very special to a few of his girls in the very near future.

"Do you two really have to go?" Koyuki huffed, earning a small chuckle from the blonde hanyou.

"I'm afraid so, Koyuki-hime." Naruto replied as he cupped her cheek in an affectionate manner, prompting her to lean into his touch. "We've already been here for three weeks, not to mention both Sakura-chan and I have to be ready for the Chuunin Exams that starts in another three weeks."

Koyuki merely nodded sadly, still not wanting her mate to go.

"Cheer up Koyuki-chan." Sakura smiled, catching the princesses attention. "You'll get to see us again during the finals, then you can meet the other girls."

At this, the young ruler couldn't help but smile. Since hearing about the other girls that were in her mates life, she had been interested in meeting with them. Especially the one named Anko, whom she had learned from Sakura was Naruto's first mate, and no doubt had interesting tales to tell of the blonde hanyou. Fubuki on the other hand was interested in meeting with Haku, and compare hyoton jutsus.

"We'll be there." Fubuki stated with a small smile.

"Um, Naruto-kun," Koyuki blushed. "Could you perhaps make a stop at the port we departed from in Tetsu no Kuni, and give these to those two children?"

In her hand were two autographed posters of the upcoming movie both of them were in, though these particular poster only showcased the Demon Queen that Koyuki had portrayed in the film. Smiling, Naruto gently took them.

"As you wish." He replied.

With one last bid farewell, the blonde embraced both of the girls into a firm hug, planting a kiss on each of their cheeks before he returned to his team mate, before finally sinking into the shadows to make their first stop to drop off the autographed posters for the children before heading home.

Konoha Gates, A Few Hours Later

It had been a dull afternoon for the Eternal Gate Guards. Even more so for Izumo since Kakashi had 'borrowed' his book and had yet to return it, which caused the brown haired Chuunin to grumble in complaint. With little else to do, the man blankly stared at the long path that lead into the village. Squinting slightly as he saw two figures approaching the gates at a leisurely pace. As the two travelers neared, Izumo could finally make out the distinct pink and blonde haired individuals with black low lights.

"Hey Kotetsu, look who it is." He called out to his partner and best friend while gesturing at the approaching duo.

"So they're finally back." The other chuunin chuckled. "Kakashi is going to be happy when he learns of this."

"Maybe I'll finally get my book back." Izumo grumbled again, earning another laugh from his friend.

"Welcome back Naruto." Kotetsu greeted the blonde as him and Sakura finally reached the massive gates. "And Sakura."