Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto. If I did, Nagato would be busy giving Naruto a run for his money in the manga right now
A/N: Here is it, the first chapter of my sequel to Warriors of the Leaf. If you haven't read it, some things may not make sense right away.
Chapter 1: Tournament
"I wonder, which will work better? My original, or your copy?" asked Naruto.
The young blond stood in a ruined Amegakure no Sato, looking on at the person responsible for its destruction, Uchiha Madara.
"You may have my eyes, but you have no knowledge of how to use them," replied Madara. The Uchiha elder was staring down the blond before him, with a gaze full of hatred and spite.
Naruto focused his new tool at his opponent, and took note of the strings of chakra connecting him to the eight bijuu under his control. The young blond focused on those strings, attempting to disrupt them. This prompted a reaction from the Uchiha elder. Madara took note of what Naruto was attempting to accomplish.
"It must take a lot to control eight bijuu at the same time. You may not show it, but the strain placed on your body has been adding up throughout this fight. These eyes allow me to see it, to control it. You should know more than anyone that what these eyes can see, these eyes can control. No matter what tricks you use, there is no hiding that which bounds you to the bijuu. Naruto poured all of his focus and chakra into his eyes, even adding the chakra of the kyuubi. Madara attempted to do the same, trying his best to overcome the added strain put in place by Naruto.
"A willing bijuu can supply more chakra than one being controlled," spoke a voice from the direction of Naruto. Madara noticed an ethereal form gathering behind Naruto, in the form of Kyubi in her human state.
"Impossible..." thought Madara, as he felt his control slipping.
"It's over," spoke Kyubi.
The chakra strings between Madara and the bijuu snapped, forcing Madara to scream out in pain.
"Finish him off now, while he's vulnerable!!" shouted Kyubi.
"Fuuton: Rasenshuriken! (Wind Release: Spiraling Throwing Star)" shouted Naruto, as he threw the spinning mass of chakra in the direction of Uchiha Madara. The Uchiha elder screamed out as loud as he ever had as his body was torn apart by what appeared to be an infinite amount of chakra blades. Madara's bloodied body fell to the ground upon the dissipation of the chakra form.
"Impressive... it seems as though I underestimated this child. I'll allow him this victory for the moment. It seems that jutsu was meant to disrupt my control over chakra. I was able to teleport enough of my body in time to avoid that, but I'll act out the part of the wounded animal for now. I'll escape as soon as I have the chance. Uzumaki Naruto, I will challenge you again. I won't lose a second time," thought Madara, as the other shinobi he was fighting convened on his location.
True to his promise, Madara escaped while being escorted by Uchiha Sasuke and Naruto to visit the grave of his otouto, Uchiha Izuna.
"For my clan, for my brother, I give it all for them," read the words inside the back cover of the journal of Uchiha Izuna, left in the hands of Naruto and Sasuke.
"I wonder what conclusion those two will draw from his journal? I'm sure they know I could have faked it. I suppose I'll know soon enough. I am, after all, the one capable of being both a member of the distant past and the distant future," thought Madara, as he dashed through a wooded area.
Sasuke and Naruto were slightly discouraged at losing Madara while he was in their charge. Even if his escape was inevitable, with no one being able to stop it, it still bothered the two shinobi. Rather than dwelling on it, the two opted to hold a friendly spar, on the premise of having too much time left in the day to simply go home.
"Katon: Goukakyuu no Jutsu! (Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique)" shouted Sasuke.
Naruto was quick to dodge the enormous fireball, and prepared a jutsu of his to counter.
"Katon: Kako no Jutsu! (Fire Release: Fire Fox Technique)" shouted Naruto, as he breathed life into a flaming fox that rushed towards Sasuke.
"Katon: Kashu no Jutsu! (Fire Release: Fire Hand Technique)" shouted Sasuke, as he held back the fox with a pair of flaming hands. Sasuke began concentrating fire chakra into his feet.
"Katon: Kasoku no Jutsu! (Fire Release: Fire Foot Technique)" shouted Sasuke, as his feet lit up in flame. He did a quick flip, kicking the fox up into the air.
"I guess it's pointless to fight you with Katon no Jutsu, eh, Sasuke?" asked Naruto.
"I don't know about that. That was a cute jutsu you came up with. Inspired by anyone we know?" asked Sasuke.
"Maybe," spoke Naruto, as he pulled out the Honezanbatou (Bone Longsword).
"Kenjutsu? Alright, I could go for that," spoke Sasuke, as he pulled out his katana.
The two dashed towards each other, bringing their swords to bear on one another. The two could only smile as each tried to push the other back. For several minutes, neither gave way, continuing to push. As the breeze around them changed direction, the two backed off each other, and dashed for each other once again, this time brining their weapons to each others necks, stopping just short of decapitating one another.
"Well, this is lame," spoke Sasuke.
"Yeah, not exactly the thrill I was looking for. Maybe we should use practice weapons, so we don't end up chopping each other's heads off?" asked Naruto.
"That's not a bad idea. Have any practice swords on you?" asked Sasuke, and sheathed his katana.
"On me? How about in me? Just have to pop one out..." muttered Naruto, as he concentrated chakra to both of his shoulders, until a bone popped out of his skin on each, Naruto pulled out both to reveal two bone practice swords.
"Right, the human weapon supply shop, how could I forget?" spoke Sasuke.
"You know, if I felt like it, I could probably put each weapon's shop in this village out of business," replied Naruto, as he handed one of the swords to Sasuke.
"You probably could, but then Tenten and other weapons dealers would be upset with you," spoke Sasuke.
"You have a point there. Shall we?" asked Naruto, as the two resumed their spar. The two boys came at one another again, slamming bone against bone.
"You don't have to hold back, you know. These won't break," spoke Naruto.
"How do I know you wouldn't give me a fragile one on purpose?" asked Sasuke.
"You don't, but it wouldn't be too interesting for me if I did, now, would it?" replied Naruto.
The two pulled back, and slammed their weapons into each other again with enough force to kick up the dirt beneath them.
"Now that's more like it," spoke Naruto.
The two continued their duel into the night, not even noticing the setting of the sun. Sasuke's mother had to get the two before they declared their match a draw.
A year passed by in Konohagakure no Sato. The village soon returned to normal, after the damage from Pein's invasion of Konoha was repaired. Namikaze Minato resumed his role as Hokage of Konoha. Over time, the villagers were informed of his return. While some accused Minato of abandoning the village in their time of need, many others understood why the yondaime did what he did, knowing his actions were in the best interest of the village. There was no way for him to know at the time there would be harsh consequences for the village, as a result of the village holding a jinchuuriki. Upon relinquishing the position of Hokage back to Minato, Tsunade and some other iryou-nin established a school separate from the academy for the express purpose of training iryou-nin. Tsunade dedicated the school to her otouto, Nawaki, and her lover, Dan. Those showing potential and interest in the field of iryou jutsu joined the school upon graduation from the academy.
Sasuke was admitted into ANBU. Sakura became one of the instructors at Tsunade's school, alongside Shizune. Shikamaru was promoted to Tokubetsu Jonin in strategy and planning. Choji became an instructor at the academy, in charge of taijutsu training. Ino joined Sakura in teaching and studying in Tsunade's school. Hinata continued to refine her jutsu, and was promoted to jonin alongside Neji. Her and Naruto continued to develop their relationship, going out together between missions. Shino was also promoted to jonin, and continued to work alongside Naruto and Hinata during group missions. Kiba continued training with his clan, further refining his jutsu. Lee was promoted to tokubetsu jonin in taijutsu, and joined Choji in instructing taijutsu at the academy, as well as reaching out to those who showed more potential in taijutsu as opposed to ninjutsu and genjutsu. Tenten was promoted to jonin and taught a special class at the academy on weapons use between her missions, opting to teach only part time. Neji helped Hinata in her training, allowing her to reach Jonin. The two continued to mend relations between the main and branch houses of the clan, soon removing the use of their seal, except in circumstances similar to what took place years earlier with Hiashi and Hizashi.
Abumi Zaku and Tsuchi Kin continued to refine their jutsu under direction of Haku and Zabuza. Zaku learned to develop his katon no jutsu, as well as combine most of his jutsu with his zankuha. Kin sought the assistance of Yuhi Kurenai, who took some time to instruct Kin in genjutsu between raising her son, Asuo. The remaining members of Orochimaru's Sound Five, Kimimaro, Kidomaru, and Tayuya, continued to refine their abilities. Kimimaro was accepted into ANBU. Kidomaru joined Shikamaru in working on the strategy and tactics team responsible for developing high level mission profiles. Tayuya also aided Kin in her sound based genjutsu alongside Kurenai. She also continued to develop her relationship with Shikamaru, slowly becoming more "tame."
Sasori stayed in Konoha for a month, aiding the teams searching for Madara. After those teams were disbanded, Sasori returned to Suna and took up the position of ambassador between Suna and Konoha, alongside Temari. Deidara and Kisame chose to remain in Konoha, and refined their skills. Kisame trained for several months alone with Kawazaki in kenjutsu and suiton no jutsu. Deidara continued to increase the potential of his art, looking for new ways to create destruction. He joined Root Member Sai as part of a long range tactical team for surprise assaults on enemy camps. Hidan worked with Nagato, Yahiko, and Konan in rebuilding the village of Amegakure no Sato. Hidan became one of Nagato's elite hunter-nin, using his immortality to gain an edge against all those who continued to threaten the Ame leader. Nagato continued to work behind the scenes of the village, choosing to hide behind his new Deva Path, not so much out of fear of rebellion or assassination, but more so for the sake of keeping up appearances. With his village already familiar with the Fuma Clan member leading their village, Nagato felt it best to continue to operate out of his paths. Konan continued to work alongside Nagato's Deva Path as "Angel" of Amegakure. Yahiko trained to regain the skills he had before his death before Hanzo and Danzo, aiding Nagato and Konan as necessary. He was forced to remove the piercings placed on his body while he was the Deva Path in order to avoid being confused for "Pein-sama."
During this time, the ninja world returned to the stability it had before the rise of Akatsuki and Madara's attack. The fear of war brought on by Madara's assault kept the peace between the villages, excepting some skirmishes over conflicting mission objectives. The lesser villages chose to follow suit, not wanting to provoke one of the major shinobi villages. For the time being, it would seem the peace Nagato, Konan, and Yahiko worked so hard to achieve had become a reality. Even the skirmishes that took place before were reduced in number, and rarely did they end in casualties. To this end, Nagato instructed Hidan to target only those who sought to disrupt this peace, working behind the scenes to maintain it.
"I'm going to make this prick die a slow and painful death!" thought Hidan, as he was looking for someone in a wooded area. Hidan had been assigned to take out an individual who attempted to infiltrate Amegakure. The man tried placing explosives on the gate, but was caught before he could finish. The explosives were disarmed before they could be set off, and Hidan was sent to chase the man down.
"Too bad I have to keep the bastard alive. Damn leader doesn't know how bothersome it is when I have to keep them alive for fucking 'information.' Doesn't help that I was planning to take a small vacation over the next couple of days," thought Hidan, as he continued searching for the terrorist who attacked Amegakure. Hidan's outfit had changed since he was a part of Akatsuki. He now wore an outfit similar to the ANBU. He wore skin-tight, black pants with a matching shirt, along with the black shinobi sandals. Due to his style, he didn't wear armor of any kind, opting only to wear a mask bearing a demon, leading to his code name, Oni (Demon). Hidan kept his scythe on his back, along with several rounds of cable kept wound in a device on his back. Hidan also had two retractable pikes on his belt. On his wrists, Hidan had a small projectile launcher that sent out an arrow tipped wire, which Hidan could retract, as an alternate method of getting the blood of his opponents. Hidan found a sign of his target, and sped off in the direction he believed his opponent to be heading.
"There you are!" shouted Hidan, as threw his scythe at the shadow of his opponent. The man quickly evaded the weapon, and responded with a jutsu.
"Katon: Goukakyuu no Jutsu!" shouted the man, sending a large fireball towards Hidan. The hunter-nin didn't bother to evade, and ran through the mass of fire, ignoring the pain rattling his body. Hidan retracted his scythe, and brought it down on his opponent. The man he was facing pulled out a katana, and blocked the strike.
"Not bad, it's like you expected me to run through that!" shouted Hidan.
"Your style is recognizable. I've heard much of the Jashinist hunter-nin of Amegakure, the Amegakure no Oni (Demon of Hidden Rain). Your weapon of choice is rather easy to pick out," replied the man, as he attempted to repel Hidan with his katana. Hidan pulled back his scythe, and attempted to hit the man again. The man was careful to make sure none of the three blades of Hidan's weapon hit him.
"Scared of what will happen if I happen to draw your blood? You're rather informed for some grunt terrorist bastard," spoke Hidan.
"Terrorist? I'm not the terrorist you're looking for. I was sent to look for him, too," replied the man.
"Bullshit!" shouted Hidan, as he pulled back his scythe, and jumped back from the man. He pointed his wrist toward his opponent, and activated his projectile launcher. The man before Hidan was surprised, but not caught off guard, as he deflected the speedy weapon away. Hidan retracted the one, and activated the other, hoping to catch the man off guard. This time, it appeared that Hidan hit his mark. Hidan retracted his weapon to find no blood on his weapon. The target he hit turned to smoke.
"Fucking bunshin! (Clone)" shouted Hidan. The Jashinist observed a katana going through his body.
"Will you shut it for a second, damn it! I'm not the enemy!" shouted the man, as he pulled back his katana.
"Oh, then why did you do that? You have any idea how fucking uncomfortable that is!?" shouted Hidan, as he brought his scythe to bare on his opponent once again. His opponent responded with his katana, and began knocking Hidan back. Hidan was quick to realize the one he was fighting was superior to him in speed, and began taking cuts across his body. Hidan made attempts to block the strikes of his opponents katana with his scythe, only to have his weapon cut in half when his opponents katana began to glow red. Hidan jumped back, prompting his opponent to chase him. Out of the shadows of the wooded area they were in, Hidan was able to see his opponent clearly. The man before him wore a Konoha ANBU outfit. His mask had dual spirals focusing on each of his eyes with an otherwise emotionless appearance. The man held his katana in a defensive pose.
"Do you see I'm not your opponent now?" asked the Konoha ANBU.
"Yeah, yeah. You didn't have to give me the run through earlier, prick," replied Hidan.
"I see your manners are just as pleasant as always," responded the Konoha ANBU, while placing his katana on his back.
"What's with the fruity spirals? The last little shit I saw dressed like that was an annoying pain in the ass," spoke Hidan.
"A trap of sorts. One you've already fallen into," spoke the Konoha ANBU.
Hidan pondered what the man before him was speaking of, before he found himself in a world unfamiliar to him. The ground beneath him was made of fire, save for a platform him and the Konoha ANBU were standing on.
"Genjutsu? That would make you a Uchiha, so which one?" asked Hidan.
"I am referred to as Kajo (spiral)," replied the Konoha ANBU.
"Kajo? As in Konoha's Kajougen? (spiral illusion)" asked Hidan.
Kajo nodded in response.
"That would make you... Uchiha Sasuke," spoke Hidan.
"Correct, Amegakure no Oni, or should I say, Hidan," replied Sasuke.
"Great, well, now that we know who we are, drop the fucking illusion!" shouted Hidan.
"It is necessary. You should know we don't reveal our identities to outsiders. In my world, no outsiders can eavesdrop," replied Sasuke, as he dropped his genjutsu.
"So, you're out after the prick that tried to bomb his way into Ame?" asked Hidan.
"He tried to bomb his way into Konoha and Iwa, too. Seems he got tired of dealing with the major villages, and tried to target yours," replied Sasuke.
"Yeah, yeah, so do you know where he is?" asked Hidan.
"I have an idea of where he might be headed. Seems his next target is Kusa. Seems he knows what would happen if we set foot in Kusa no Kuni. We should be able to catch him before he crosses the border, if we hurry," replied Sasuke.
"Fine, let me seal my scythe and pull out my spare," spoke Hidan, as he picked up the pieces of his scythe and placed them in a storage scroll marked 大鎌 (oogama, scythe). He pulled out a second scythe out of a second storage scroll, different from the first as being marked with a 二 (ni, two).
The two made their way towards the border of Kusa no Kuni. Just as Sasuke predicted, the man they were chasing was attempting to cross the border. The man found himself with a scythe blocking his path.
"Where do you think you're going, asshole!" shouted Hidan.
"Katon: Housenka no Jutsu!" shouted Sasuke, as several fireballs were sent towards the terrorist. The man quickly evaded, and threw a series of clay balls towards the two. The man concentrated his chakra, and detonated the clay, knocking back the two.
"What the Hell!? A Deidara clone!?" shouted Hidan, as he knocked away more bombs thrown in his direction.
"It would seem so," spoke Sasuke, while charging his katana with lightning chakra, quickly disabling the bombs sent at him.
"Ha! You might have blocked those, but you won't dodge the next one!" shouted the man as he focused his chakra again. The ground below Hidan and Sasuke erupted in fire as bombs set the ground exploded. Sasuke and Hidan appeared to disappear in the blast.
"Too easy. I thought ANBU were stronger than that," thought the man, as he continued for Kusa.
"Going somewhere?" asked Hidan, and he swung his scythe at the terrorist. The man was barely able to avoid being hit, only to run into Sasuke. The Uchiha swung his arm at the man's face, knocking him into the ground. Hidan activated both of his projectile launchers, piercing both of the terrorist's shoulders. The man found himself bound to the ground, with no way to move.
"It's over," spoke Sasuke.
"Ha, you think this will stop me?" asked the man, as he set off more explosives he had planted in the ground. As Hidan was knocked back by the explosions, the wires holding the terrorist down were pulled out, allowing the man a chance to run. He took no chances in being caught again, and used a doton jutsu to escape. As the man continued in his escape, he felt a horrible pain in his legs.
"What the Hell?" thought the man.
Matching pains appeared in the man's arms, disrupting his ability to use his escape technique. He was forced into resurfacing. The man tried to stand up, but found it impossible. The man was horrified to see his arms and legs were bleeding profusely. Sasuke quickly found the man.
"What have you done to me!?" shouted the man.
"I haven't done anything," spoke Sasuke.
Hidan followed behind Sasuke. He was bleeding in the same places as the man before him. Hidan made another Jashin circle on the ground so the man could see what Hidan did to him.
"If you really want to know, then witness the power of Jashin-sama!" shouted Hidan, as he impaled his hand. The terrorist's hand started to bleed. The pair took note the man had the same hand mouths as Deidara.
"You should do the other hand, to make sure he can't make any more bombs," spoke Sasuke.
"No!! Don't do it!!" shouted the man. He screamed out in pain as Hidan impaled his other hand, disabling the man.
"That should do it," spoke Sasuke.
"I suppose," spoke Hidan, as he bowed his head. It sounded to Sasuke like Hidan was begging for forgiveness.
"You're real lucky my leader doesn't want you dead," spoke Hidan.
"I take it you were charged with his capture?" asked Sasuke.
"Correct," replied Hidan in an irritated tone.
"As was my mission. Since we're closest to your village, I'll follow. Your leader is likely interested in the same information as the Hokage," spoke Sasuke.
"Fine. Let's go," spoke Hidan.
Hidan opted to carry the body, and returned to Amegakure, with Sasuke following. The two arrived by the end of the day. The guards at the gate were hesitant to allow the entry of an outsider, but relented when they were told Sasuke was of Konoha. The two headed straight for Pein's tower. Hidan placed the man in a detention cell before entering Pein's office.
"Oh, Konoha no ANBU? Does your village have an interest in this man?" asked Pein's Deva Path.
"He attacked our village, as well as Iwa," replied Sasuke.
"I see. Very well. Officially, he is our prisoner, but I have no problem with sharing information. I am taking the man to the interrogation room. I will await your presence there," spoke Pein. The long haired man went back to his paperwork, while Hidan led Sasuke for the interrogation room. Pein's Human Path was with the man. He was placed in a room with low lighting. The walls, floor, and ceiling were all painted black.
"What are you doing to do to me?" asked the terrorist, while looking into the eyes of Pein.
"I am going to find out who you are, and why you attacked my village," replied Pein.
At that moment, Hidan and Sasuke entered the room.
"Ah, I see that you two are here," spoke Pein.
Hidan and Sasuke nodded. Pein returned his focus to the terrorist.
"Now, we can do this the easy way, or the hard way. I'll ask a question, and you give me an answer. If you refuse, or lie, Oni will stab himself. I'm sure you are aware of the implications," spoke Pein. Hidan had already taken another blood sample of the man from his weapons, and began making a Jashin circle.
"First, your name," asked Pein.
"Hazaki Hitoshi," replied the man.
"Good, now, why did you attack my village?" asked Pein.
"I felt like it," replied Hitoshi.
Hidan impaled his shoulder.
"Could you repeat?" asked Pein.
"I couldn't get into Konoha. I thought I would have better luck entering a lesser shinobi village," replied Hitoshi.
"Better," replied Pein, "What did you intend to do upon entering my village?"
"I wanted to burn it to the ground," spoke Hitoshi.
"Why? Did someone ask you to do this?" asked Pein.
"No, I did this of my own choice. I wanted to be able to burn a hidden village to the ground," replied the man.
Hidan impaled his other shoulder.
"That didn't seem to be the truth," spoke Pein.
"I wanted to prove I was better than the one known as Deidara!!" shouted the man.
"Is this why you attacked Konoha and Iwa?" asked Sasuke.
"Yes!! I wanted to let the world know I'm not some copy! I wanted to show the world I'm the best. My bombs are better than those of everyone else! And then I was going the blast Deidara himself into Hell! There you have it! My life's plan!" shouted the man.
"So, you weren't working for anyone?" asked Pein.
"No, I hate my village. They refused to acknowledge my gifts, refusing to give me jonin rank. They said I wasn't ready for it, that I was too much of a 'loose cannon.' I showed them, now, didn't I?" replied Hitoshi.
"You proved them right. You're nothing more than a mentally unstable individual. I was under the impression that you were sent here as an assassin, but I see you are nothing more than a crazed individual who chose to waste his gifts," spoke Pein.
"And I couldn't kill the bastard?" asked Hidan.
"He's Iwa's problem, now. Hidan, 'giftwrap him,' and send him on his way," replied Pein.
Hidan smiled behind his mask.
"Konoha ANBU, please meet me in my office," spoke Pein.
Sasuke nodded, and returned to face Pein's Deva Path.
After Sasuke left, Hidan pulled out his scythe.
"What are you going to do with that?" asked Hitoshi.
"Enjoy the pleasure of the greatest pain!" shouted Hidan, as he swung the scythe at himself. Loud screaming could be heard coming from the interrogation room.
"What did you mean by 'giftwrap?'" asked Sasuke.
"If you know anything about Oni, you would understand," replied Pein.
"I see."
"Judging from your appearance, I believe you are Konoha's Kajougen, correct?"
"Correct."
"Uchiha Sasuke, it has been a while since I last had a chance to speak with a shinobi of Konoha. How has your village been over the past year?"
"We're repaired the village since your incursion. Things are back to how they were before. It would seem you've made much progress in rebuilding your village."
"I have made a lot of progress? Perhaps for that which you can see. We've rebuilt most of the village. The genin of my village have had plenty of missions in reconstructing the various buildings in my village. In terms of military strength, we are still down. Most of our jonin were wiped out in Madara's attack. It will take a while to rebuild my shinobi force."
"I believe you are set to hold the next chunin exams. That would be a prime opportunity to show off the skills of your lesser shinobi, perhaps boost your image."
"This is true. I've spent much time personally training my genin. I want to make a good showing."
"I look forward to it, as I am sure Naruto is."
"How is Naruto? I heard he's the number one candidate for next Hokage."
"That is correct. The Hokage is trying to avoid showing favoritism by focusing on his son, but there aren't too many other shinobi with the skill and will to take the position."
"Ah, good. I had hoped to one day see him as your kage. I didn't ask you here to reminisce, though."
"You have information for Konoha?"
"You said I could show our reputation through the chunin exams, right?"
"That is one way. I take it you have something else in mind."
"That's right. I wish to host a tournament, a contest for the strongest shinobi of the hidden villages, including mine. I believe, if we put up a good outing, we can boost our reputation in a more effective manner. I had planned on informing the other villages within the next couple of weeks. We're busy preparing the grounds in which the tournament will take place."
"An interesting idea. A tournament featuring jonin level shinobi would be an effective way to demonstrate the strength of your village. When is the tournament?"
"A month from now. Since you are here, I thought it best to inform your village directly."
"What are the rules for the tournament?"
"It will consist of multiple parts. The first will be a race through an underground pipe maze, riddled with traps and some of my strongest shinobi. Those who do not make it through within a set amount of time will be eliminated. The second stage will feature team battles. The final stage will be individual battles."
"Is there a prize for victory?"
"The pride of being the best in the lands... and a one on one exhibition match against me."
"Pride is one thing, but I've been wanting to take a shot at you since I heard you gave Naruto a challenge."
"Oh? Well, I suggest you do your best to win. I don't take to fighting, but such an opportunity does not come up often."
"How many are allowed to compete from each village?"
"Two three-man cells from each village. The best of the best, of course. I hope to send word to the major clients of the various countries, as well."
"Sounds like fun. I'll be sure to give word to Konoha. You'll find both me and Naruto here."
"I'm counting on it. While you look forward to a match with me, I wish to avenge my title of being undefeated against him. Not that I don't wish for one of my shinobi to win, of course."
"Time will tell. Is there anything else you wish for me to tell Konoha."
"Tell them to bring forth the best challenge they can offer."
"I can do that. Good day, Pein-san."
"Farewell, Sasuke-san."
Sasuke took off for Konoha, his mission now complete. He was hoping Hitoshi would have proven to be more of a challenge. Most of his targets have been fairly weak individuals, at least to Sasuke. Even most of the jonin-level shinobi he fought proved to be of little challenge. Naruto felt the same on his missions. Sasuke knew Naruto would be looking forward to Pein's tournament just as much as he was. Sasuke's trip to Konoha was uneventful. Upon entry to the village, Sasuke made his way for the Hokage's tower.
"Kajo, report," spoke Minato.
"The terrorist, Hazaki Hitoshi, was not affiliated with any village. He merely sought to prove himself through the destruction of a village," replied Sasuke.
"Prove himself?"
"He wished to prove to Iwa that he was stronger than Deidara."
"That's all? He attacked a hidden village over something so trivial?"
Sasuke nodded in response.
"What are his current whereabouts?" asked Minato.
"He was captured by an Ame hunter-nin. I joined their shinobi in Hitoshi's interrogation," replied Sasuke.
"I see. Anything else to report?"
"There is one other thing. The leader of Ame plans to hold a tournament for jonin level shinobi."
"A tournament, eh?"
Sasuke explained to Minato the details of the tournament he heard from Pein. Minato thought over the idea of the tournament. At the end of Sasuke's explanation, Minato had a grin on his face.
"A tournament for jonin level ninja? Sounds like an opportunity that's too hard to pass up," spoke Minato.
"Are you interested in participating?" asked Sasuke.
"Of course. I wouldn't miss out on this. And it's one month from now, eh? That should give me some time to prepare our teams."
"Have anyone in mind?"
"You and Naruto for sure. Itachi would be a good choice. I still need three more. I'll have to give this careful thought. I'll discuss this with you, Naruto, and Itachi, upon their return from their missions."
"Will I be relieved from missions until the tournament?"
"Of course. I need you to be at your best."
"Good, I'll start training now."
"Just what I want to hear. You are dismissed, Kajo."
Sasuke took his leave, and headed straight for the Uchiha compound in order to begin his training.
"Hidan, are you finished?" asked Pein's Human Path.
"I told myself I would make that prick suffer for interrupting my vacation," spoke Hidan.
"I thought your idea of a vacation was killing?"
"Fuck you," replied Hidan, while giving Pein the one finger salute.
"You're the only person who can get away with that, and only because of your skills," replied Pein in a tone bordering irritation.
"And I can't kill you because I can never get to your real body."
"I wonder why that is?"
"Grr... you didn't come to chide me about taking my fucking time, so what is it you want?"
"I know I told you about my tournament, right?"
"Yeah, yeah, I heard."
"Good, you get a one month vacation, but I want you to use it to train. You're going to be part of one of my teams."
"Is that so? Remind me again, what's the prize?"
"One on one with me. If memory serves, you've always wanted to 'curse' me, right? Well, here's your chance."
"That's right, I remember you saying something like that. That's why I was interested. Yeah, sure, I'll enter. Who are you going to team up with me?"
"I haven't decided yet. I'll be sure to assign to you two individuals who can work well with your style."
"Work well with me? By that, do you mean someone who uses jutsu that would be bad to use around a partner who could die?"
"No, not like that. Currently, the only one able to stitch you back together is me. It wouldn't do me good to put you with a team that would chop you into pieces. The pride of the village is on the line, after all. I want to show everyone that we have the same strength as before."
"Right, I heard. You can have your petty pride, but I'm in this to get a piece of you. Don't you forget."
"As I said before when we were Akatsuki, your reasons are your own, but when you work for me, you work for my ideals, as well, as a way of fulfilling your own. Don't forget that."
"Like I care. So, no missions for a month, right."
"Right. Get to your training. Practice your evasion skills. I can't stitch you back together in the middle of the tournament."
"Fine, later," replied Hidan, as he made his way for his personal training grounds, leaving behind a torn apart corpse that was once Hazaki Hitoshi.
"He always leaves me with such an awful mess to clean up. He thinks I had this room painted black to induce fear. I had it painted black to make the mess less visible," Pein thought to himself, as he disposed of the body. "It's times like these I miss Zetsu."
In his office, Deva Path Pein began writing out the letters for the other hidden villages.
"I would hate to show favoritism to Konoha by allowing them to be the first to know. It would be best if I informed the other villages, too," spoke Pein.
"Is that so? Well, giving them a little more time should make for a more interesting tournament, right?" asked Konan.
"I suppose. I'll have to give our men more time off to train, as well, though. That's really the only reason I wanted to wait for another couple of weeks."
"I see. We'll have to prepare as well. Have you finished with setting up the traps in the underground maze?"
"They're finished, for the most part. The only task left is to make entry/exit points for our ambush zones. Animal Path is working on that, along with our summons. They'll have the underground prepared well in advance of the tournament."
"Are you thinking of allowing our men to train in there?"
"I thought about it, but that would provide our teams with an unfair advantage. It would be best to keep things as even as possible. I want to show off the skills of our shinobi. What better way than to have then enter into the unknown with the rest."
"Of course. Have you given thought to our teams?"
"Hidan for sure. I'm still considering other jonin able to participate."
"I have some people in mind. I'll discuss them with you later."
"I figured you had some ideas."
"There is one thing. I heard Oto has been reorganized into a village, following Orochimaru's death at the hands of Uchiha Sasuke over a year ago. Should we ask if they are interested?"
"I've heard that rumor, too. I have considered inviting them to participate. Their new village is only a few months old. I'm sure they would be interested in making a showing, if they have the shinobi. I'll sent an invitation to them."
"So, you're set to include all the villages?"
"Correct. Konoha, Suna, Kumo, Iwa, Kiri, Kusa, Oto, and Taki. Let's see what happens," spoke Pein, as his Animal Path appeared. Animal Path summoned several birds and large insects to deliver the messages on his behalf. Within a few days, the hidden villages received their notices.
"Hmm... a message from Ame? What could they want?" thought a man working in the message center of Kumo.
"What do you have there?" asked a woman.
"A message for the Raikage, from the leader of Ame."
"I'll take it to her," replied the woman. She made her way for the Raikage's office, politely knocking before entering.
"Raikage-sama!" shouted the woman.
"What is it?" asked the Raikage.
"I have a message for you from the leader of Ame."
"Oh? Very well, I'll take a look at it. Dismissed."
"The woman placed the letter on the Raikage's desk, and walked off.
The Raikage thumbed through the letter, carefully considering the idea behind Pein's tournament.
"He is a clever one, trying to show off to everyone. This should be interesting. Kirabi has been complaining to me about a lack of things to do as of late. I'll give him something to shut his mouth," spoke the Raikage to herself.
In Iwa, the Tsuchikage also received one of Pein's letters.
"A tournament in Amegakure? That guy has brass balls to be pulling something like this in just a short amount of time since his village and high ranking ninja were supposedly wiped out. I wouldn't bother if it weren't for the fact that he invited shinobi from the other hidden villages. A chance to make a showing like this doesn't come up too often. I might just have to enter myself on behalf of the village. He didn't say anything about the village kage being unable to enter," spoke the Tsuchikage to himself. A large grin went across his face as he thought over who he would put on the teams representing Iwa.
The Mizukage opened up his letter, wondering why Ame had any interest in communication with his village.
"A tournament, eh? That sounds like fun. I can think of a few who would represent us well. His timing couldn't be better. We've done much to improve since the kekkei genkai war. We've even managed to integrate those with kekkei genkai into our main force. They'll put on quite a show. The other villages won't know what hit them," spoke the Mizukage.
"A tournament, eh?" spoke Kawazaki, as he entered the office, over hearing what the Mizukage was saying.
"You were listening in on me?"
"It's not like I was trying, or anything. Not to mention your voice does get rather loud when you're excited about something. Don't tell me you were going to leave me out of this."
"Well, you are certainly jonin rank, that much I don't doubt. I'm not sure how the presence of a bijuu will affect things, though."
"Oh, are you worried about something insignificant like that? If you're that concerned, I promise I won't use my transformation. Seriously, though, do you really think the other villages won't use their jinchuuriki? Love them or hate them, they are often the most powerful shinobi of a village."
"You're thinking about that brat from Konoha, right? Just because he beat Uchiha Madara, the entire shinobi world has been singing his praises. The one benefit is the better treatment of jinchuuriki."
"And, though you might not like to admit it, you've been far more respectful to me as a result."
"Right, well, regardless of what I think of you and your kind, you are still one of the most powerful shinobi in my village."
"Good, then we have an agreement. You'll send me to participate in the tournament."
"Looking forward to facing off against anyone in particular?"
"Fish face. I'm sure Konoha will send him. I wouldn't mind knocking him down a few pegs again. That, and I want to see if he's managed to learn anything."
"Fine, I'll send you to the tournament."
"Good. Now, who are you going to send with me?"
"You heard about the entry requirements, did you?"
"I have good ears. It's a bad habit you have to mutter every word you read. Now, who are you sending?"
"I'm not sure who else. I just read this now, you know. Probably other members of the Nananin (Seven)."
"Hold on, while many of them are strong, they aren't that strong. They've got a long way to go before they'll be up to par with the previous Nananin."
"Fine, who do you suggest?"
"Hey, I just heard about this just now. I'm about as sure as you are, I just know who not to send."
"Fine, fine. We'll discuss this later. Now, go."
"Didn't you call me here for something? I didn't just come here on a whim, you know."
"Forget it, it's not important, now, go before I lose my temper."
"Yeah, yeah. Ja ne," spoke Kawazaki as he made his way out of the Mizukage's tower.
"Pain in the ass. Thinks he's so high and mighty because he is a bijuu. I'll show him one of these days," the Mizukage thought to himself, as he resumed his daily paperwork.
Kusa received their notice, as was quick to deliver it to their leader, Kamakusa Futoshi.
"Kamakusa-sama!" shouted a man entering Futoshi's office.
"What is it?" asked Futoshi.
"Message from Amegakure."
"Oh, Amegakure? I wonder... I'll read through it when I get a chance."
"Hai!" replied the man who delivered the messages as he left.
"Heh, I bet they're saying they won't be able to host the chunin exams this time. As weak as they became, it wouldn't surprise me at all," thought Futoshi as he opened the scroll holding the message. His expression changed from one of amusement to intrigue as he finished reading through the scroll.
"My my, how interesting. A tournament for jonin level ninja? I didn't think he would pull something like that. This Pein fellow is rather amusing. Much more so than Hanzo. I'll be more than thrilled to entertain him, and put him down a few notches when I defeat him personally. I was able to give Hanzo a run for his money before. I doubt this stand up is as strong as his reputation makes him out to be. I'll be more than happy to entertain him," spoke Futoshi, as he pondered who he was going to send to Pein's tournament.
Shibuki in Taki received his message from Pein. He opened it up cautiously, not knowing if the scroll itself was some kind of trap.
"Well, it didn't emit any poisonous gases. I suppose I'm safe for the moment. Let's see just what kind of message Pein has sent out," thought Shibuki, as he began to read through the scroll.
"So, that's his plan. A tournament for jonin level ninja. A chance to show off before the next chunin exams. This would be a great opportunity to boost morale. A victory by one of our teams would do that, and, with any luck boost our client base. I could use this as an opportunity to see how far I've come in my skills as leader of a hidden village. I'll accept, and go myself. Now, to figure out who else to send," thought Shibuki, upon finishing the message.
In the former Otogakure, Pein's message arrived to their message center. A rough, older looking man received the message.
"Hm, to Otogakure? I suppose the name of our village hasn't really been spread out too far as of yet. I suppose Leader-sama will be interested in this," muttered the man as he made his way for his leader's office.
The new village in Ta no Kuni was more of a village than the former Otogakure. Rather than being a series of bases that shifted around constantly, the new village was a formal village. The shinobi force consisted of ninja who were part of Otogakure. Without a leader, they had hired themselves out as mercenaries. When they gained a new leader, and became organized again, they began construction on a new village. Since it had only been a few months since the foundation of the new village, much of the village was still under construction. The shinobi academy of the new village, modeled after that of Kiri and Konoha, was still undergoing construction. The village was attempting to recruit enough genin to participate in the upcoming chunin exams, in order to show that they did exist as a village, and lay the foundations of their client base. After being tricked by Orochimaru, the daimyou was a little more skeptical upon being approached about the founding of a new village. Those gathered under the new banner made a point of how this village would be a true village by personally showing the daimyou around the construction site. The daimyou was impressed by how far the ninja had progressed on their own, and began funding the village about a month ago. It was then that the name of the new village was announced, Ankokugakure no Sato. (The Village Hidden in Darkness) The leader's tower was under heavy guard, much like that of Amegakure. The man delivering the scroll had to undergo multiple security checks. Even the scroll itself was checked over for traps. The door to the leader's office was tightly sealed. A small hatch opened for the man to place the scroll. Upon dropping off the message, the man took his leave, glad he didn't have to go through as many security checks on the way out. The leader of the new village took a look at the message sent to him.
"Hm, a tournament, eh? I'm surprised they knew about the village. It's obvious they don't know the name. I'll be sure to make a name for my village, though. I have a few strong shinobi I can make use of. I'll be sure to send them. I'll leave a lasting impression. It's a shame I can't go there myself. I would love to show Pein my talents. Now then, just who should I gather? They'll need the entire month, and I have the perfect training in mind," thought the leader of Ankoku.
The message for Suna arrived in their message center. A woman took note of its arrival, gave it a quick inspection, and prepared to deliver it to Gaara.
"Gaara-sama," spoke the woman, as she entered Gaara's office.
"What?" asked Gaara.
"I have a message for you from Amegakure. It is addressed to you," replied the woman as she handed the scroll to Gaara.
"Very well, I shall look it over. Arigatou," replied Gaara, as the woman returned to her post in the message center. Gaara opted to look over the message immediately, hoping it would be more interesting than the rest of the paperwork he had spent the day going through.
"A tournament for jonin in Amegakure. Interesting. They are choosing to show off their strength before the chunin exams. From what I've heard, most of their jonin were wiped out a year ago when the village was attacked by Uchiha Madara. Still, if the other villages are going to participate, this would make for an ideal opportunity to show off the increased strength of our village," Gaara spoke to himself as he sent out for three of his best jonin. Within several moments, the jonin he sent for arrived.
"Temari, Kankuro, Sasori. I just received some interesting information from Amegakure," spoke Gaara.
"What kind of information?" asked Temari.
Gaara explained the tournament to the three before him. The group appeared interested in participating.
"Pein has always had interesting ways of accomplishing his goals. A tournament to show the progress of his village? I wouldn't mind participating. It would give me a way to demonstrate my art," replied Sasori.
"Something tells me your interested in fighting someone at the tournament, Sasori-sama," spoke Kankuro. Since the time Sasori returned to the village, Kankuro asked Sasori to help improve his skills in Kugutsu no Jutsu, remembering how Sasori was able to best him so easily. Sasori, intrigued by Kankuro's attempt to defeat him following the capture of Gaara, opted to devote some of his spare time in training Kankuro. Though Kankuro's skills were still no where near that of Sasori's, he had become much more formidable after studying under the Kugutsu no Jutsu master.
"Perhaps," replied Sasori.
"You wouldn't mind telling me who? Interested in winning so you can fight that Pein guy?" asked Kankuro.
"No, I'm not interested in that. I'm more interested in seeing if Konoha will send Deidara," replied Sasori.
"Your former partner? He would make for a nice challenge. I wouldn't mind getting a shot at him," replied Kankuro.
"I wouldn't mind challenging him, either," spoke Gaara.
"He did defeat you. I didn't think you were the type to really care about things such as rematches," spoke Sasori.
"I don't make them a priority; however, it is a chance for me to get away from all this paperwork. I find it most irritating," replied Gaara.
"The things they don't tell you about the job until you take it, right?" spoke Temari.
"Indeed. We will participate. All of you are in. Temari, Kankuro, you will be with me. Sasori, I leave it to you to find strong individuals who will compliment your abilities," spoke Gaara.
"I can do that. There are some promising shinobi in this village, though, to be honest, I would much rather work alone," replied Sasori.
"I understand, but we must do this in teams," spoke Gaara.
"What do you mean by that, Gaara?" asked Kankuro.
"I understand what it's like to want to fight alone, though, sometimes, it is better to work in teams, something I've come to appreciate since I first met Uzumaki," replied Gaara.
"Oh, that's what you meant," spoke Kankuro.
"You shouldn't read too deeply into what he says. You should know that much by now," spoke Temari.
"Yeah, I know," spoke Kankuro.
"I leave you to train. I need to finish this nonsense before me, so I may prepare myself for the tournament. Dismissed," spoke Gaara.
The three before Gaara nodded, and headed off to make their preparations for the tournament.
In the following few days, Naruto and Itachi returned from their missions, and were informed of the tournament from Minato.
"A tournament for jonin? Interesting," spoke Naruto.
"I take it you want us to participate?" asked Itachi.
"I would. I already have in mind who to send, all except for one space," replied Minato.
"Who did you plan on sending, tou-san?" asked Naruto.
"Both of you, Kisame, Deidara, and Sasuke," replied Minato.
"Good choices. They'll all do well in the tournament," spoke Itachi.
"Itachi, I planned on teaming you with Kisame and Deidara. I believe your abilities would compliment each other well. Naruto, I know you and Sasuke work well with one another. I'll leave it to the two of you to decide who will join you in the tournament. For the time being, you two are relieved from missions. Take this time to train. Remember, the pride of the village is on the line," replied Minato.
"I won't disappoint you. I'll show you I'm ready to become Hokage!" shouted Naruto.
"That's the spirit I expected to see from you, Naruto," replied Minato.
"This does sound like fun. Not to mention it'll give me another chance to put him and Sasuke in their place. I can't turn down a chance like this," spoke Itachi.
"Oh, interested in fighting us, eh? I'll keep that in mind, should we run into each other in the maze, or end up fighting in the team battles," replied Naruto.
"Good, I expect a good challenge from you," spoke Itachi.
"Do try to remember that, while you may end up having to fight against each other, you are representing the village. Don't devote too much time and effort into trying to knock each other off," replied Minato.
"Don't worry, we'll make the village proud," spoke Naruto.
"Off you go then. Let me know who you choose to bring with you," replied Minato, as he resumed his paperwork. Naruto and Itachi made their way for the Uchiha compound. Naruto searched the training area to find Sasuke. Sure enough, the young Uchiha was there, fighting a kage bunshin (shadow clone).
"Hey, Sasuke!" shouted Naruto.
"Oh, Naruto. I take it you heard about the tournament?" asked Sasuke.
"Of course. Did tou-san tell you who he selected to go?"
"He said both of us and Itachi when I asked him."
"He's also selected Deidara and Kisame. He's teaming them up with Itachi."
"Is he? That means we'll get a chance to face off with him. This tournament is getting better by the minute."
"I know. He told me we need to select a third member for our team."
"Did he? Hm... who to choose. I don't suppose you have anyone in mind."
"I did, actually."
"Oh?"
Naruto took Sasuke to meet the person he thought of joining their team. Sasuke had a good idea of who Naruto had in mind as the pair made their way to the Hyuga compound.
"Yeah, Neji would be a good choice. He's been a jonin longer than both of us, and even though he is a branch house member, he's still one of the strongest of the clan," thought Sasuke.
"Hiashi-sama!" shouted Naruto.
"Oh, Naruto, how are you?" asked Hiashi.
"Busy as usual, do you know where Hinata is?" asked Naruto.
"She's in the training area. She just got back from her mission a couple days ago. The Hokage supposedly had a mission coming up for her, so I don't think she'll be around for too long. If you want to spend time with her, I would do so now," replied Hiashi.
"Oh, don't worry, I have a mission from tou-san for the both of us," spoke Naruto.
"Hinata!? Is he letting his emotions decide things for him," thought Sasuke.
"I see. Very well, I wish you luck," replied Hiashi.
"Hai, arigatou, Hiashi-sama," spoke Naruto.
The pair entered the training ground to find Hinata near a fountain, working on her suiton no jutsu.
"Hey, Hinata-chan!" shouted Naruto.
"Oh, Naruto-kun!" shouted Hinata, as she dropped her training to embrace Naruto. The two shared a quick kiss. Naruto proceeded to explain to Hinata about the tournament, and about his decision to include her in his team.
"You want me to join you, Naruto-kun?" asked Hinata.
"Of course. I know we work well together, and you didn't become jonin on a whim. You earned it all the way," replied Naruto.
"Uh, Naruto, are you sure? I mean, no offense to you, Hinata, but there are more experienced jonin, such as Kakashi-sensei, available," spoke Sasuke.
"Oh? Hey, Hinata, remember that jutsu you were working on before we went on our last missions?" asked Naruto.
"Hai," replied Hinata.
"I think Sasuke should see it," spoke Naruto, while winking at Hinata. Hinata immediately knew what Naruto intended, and headed over to the fountain. The Hyuga heiress began making a series of hand seals.
"Suiton: Juuatsu Taihou no Jutsu! (Water Release: Pressure Cannon Technique)" shouted Hinata. A powerful column of water headed in the direction of Sasuke.
"Shit! Katon: Kakai no Jutsu! (Fire Release: Fire Armor Technique)" shouted Sasuke.
Flames started to emerge around Sasuke as the water made contact with his body. A plume of steam erupted from Sasuke as he was sent into a wall.
"So, Sasuke, should we recruit Neji?" asked Naruto.
"No, Hinata is more than powerful enough," replied Sasuke.
"Thought that might change your mind," spoke Naruto, while making a large grin.
"I hope that didn't hurt, Sasuke-san!" shouted Hinata.
"No, not at all. That wall was made out of marshmallows, why would it hurt!?" shouted Sasuke.
"Hey, she didn't put the wall there. The jutsu just got your clothes wet, thanks to that jutsu of yours," replied Naruto.
"Yeah, yeah. I'm going to get you for that later, Naruto, all the same," replied Sasuke, with an evil grin on his face.
"Thank goodness he didn't date Sakura or another iryou-nin like Tsunade. If he invited someone like that along and I doubted his choice, I wouldn't be complaining about hitting a wall... I would be dead," thought Sasuke.
The shinobi of the various villages selected to enter the tournament spent the next month training hard in preparation for the challenge ahead. No one wanted to lose. With many wishing to see certain people at the tournament, everyone did their best to prepare. At the end of the month, Naruto, Sasuke, Hinata, Itachi, Deidara, and Kisame assembled at the main gate. Minato was there the send them off.
"Well guys, I wish I could join you on this outing, but there is much to do here to prepare for the chunin exams in a few weeks. Do the village proud, alright?" spoke Minato.
"Will do, tou-san!" shouted Naruto.
"We'll show them what we can do," spoke Sasuke.
"I'll do the village, and my clan, proud," spoke Hinata.
"Like I said, I have to knock these guys down a few pegs, I'll make it a good showing all the same," spoke Itachi.
"I'm out to show Kiri why they should have accepted my ways," spoke Kisame.
"I hope to get a chance to show Sasori no danna who the best artist truly is, hm," spoke Deidara.
"Good. Best of luck to you all," replied Minato.
"Hai!" shouted the elite shinobi of Konoha, as they made their way for Ame. The groups from the other villages were also en route, anxiously awaiting the challenges that lie ahead.
A/N: I'm going to try and include translations for most of the Japanese I throw in, hopefully making the fight scenes a little easier to follow. On that note, I introduced Sarutobi Asuo, the son of Kurenai and Asuma. Asuo can be spelled as 明日男, where 明 means bright, 日 means day, and 男 means male. I was trying to go for name that went with the "Will of Fire," while sounding kind of close to Asuma's name. Thanks for reading, and don't forget to review.