Chapter 4
It didn‘t take long for the Uzumakis to gather their belongings and get ready for the way back to Konoha. It would be 2-3 days of traveling, depending on their speed and possible interruptions. Kakashi, as the mission leader and highest ranking Shinobi, lead the group.
The journey was quiet. They didn‘t talk, but both of the Konoha Nin were watching the others, looking for suspicious movements. But they moved perfectly in sync, never using any more chakra than necessary. And while it didn’t calm Kakashi‘s nerves,, it still was beautiful to watch. They had a way of making every move look elegant and completely effortless.
When the sun was setting, Kakashi motioned them to stop.
“Let’s stay here for the night and continue tomorrow. If. We keep going at the same speed we will arrive tomorrow afternoon.“
“We can take the first shift tonight.“ Hikaru was the first to speak up.
°°°°°
It was a few hours later when Kakashi woke up for his shift. A low murmur of voices makes him furrow his brows. He got up and looked to the still burning fire they lit earlier. The two Uzumaki were sitting close to it and quietly singing melody that was strangely familiar. When he got closer, he realized why. Kushina used to sing this while cooking. She said it was a traditional song of Uzushio.
In that moment Hikaru and Yasu looked up. Kakashi sat down next to them, hoping he is successful in hiding this sudden burst of nostalgia and sadness.
Yasu nodded at him and Hikaru grinned and waved.
“Our shift isn‘t over yet. We still have half an hour left.“
“Maa, Yasu-kun don‘t you want me here? You wound me!“ In response to Kakashi‘s dramatics, he just raised an unimpressed eyebrow. His….. cousin? Brother? Chuckled.
“Say, Kakashi-san?…Could you tell us more about what’s going to happen once we arrive in Konoha?“
“Of course, Hikaru-kun. We will have to report to the Hokage immediately after arriving. He will probably give you an explanation of how things are going in Konoha and what you have to do and stuff like that. I think you will be given a place to stay for a certain period of time. You will most likely be staying with another shinobi, who can show you the ropes and help you. You will most likely have to fight another Konoha Shinobi so the Hokage and Jounin Commander can see your skills and know which missions fit you.“
“That doesn’t sound too bad.“ Yasu chuckles.
“Wait, you said the Hokage wanted to recruit us because of our Bingo Book entry, right?“ Hikaru sounds amused.
“…yes? Why?“
“Does that mean everyone in Konoha is only expecting one Uzumaki?“ He started giggling and Yasu snorts softly. Kakashi has a shit eating grin plastered on his face, hidden beneath his mask.
“Oh this is gonna be fun.“
Just as they said that Genma joined them and they switched shifts.
°°°°°
It was already late afternoon when they finally caught sight of Konoha. Shortly before they reached the gate, they slowed down to a lazy jog.
“We’re back and have company!“ Genma announced.
Kotetsu and Izumo looked up, only to do a double take.
“W-what? I thought there was only one of them? Am I seeing double? I bet its because of the paperwork you made me do, Genma-san!“
Genma raised an eyebrow.“You’re not seeing double. This is Uzumaki Yasu and this is Uzumaki Hikaru.“ Genma pointed at them when their names were said.
“Nice to meet you“
“Y-you too!“
“Excuse me, but we have to report to the Hokage now.“ Kakashi gave them an eye-smiled and started running in the direction of the Hokage Tower. Genma and the newcomers gave both of the chuunin a polite nod before following.
They caught up to him just before the tower and came to a halt. Kakashi didn’t say a word and just entered ignoring the receptionist and made his way to the Hokage office.
The others followed him again after nodding at the receptionist. Damn, Kakashi really needed to learn some manners.
Kakashi proved that when he opened the door without knocking startling a Chuunin who was reporting to the Hokage.
“Ah, Kakashi, You’ve returned.“ The Hokage doesn’t seem bothered and just motioned the Chuunin to leave.
“I did. I came with new allies and a slight change in plans.“
“Oh? What changed?“
Kakashi just motioned to the door where the other shinobi stopped.
“Oh… That is.. certainly an unexpected change.“