Warning: Violence and extreme angst ahead.
October Tenth
Kakashi waited patiently for Guy's arrival. He was sitting in the living room with Itachi. While Sasuke and Naruto where currently in the play room. Both of the older siblings were anxious to be going. The mission was all they could think about at the moment. They were already dressed in their Anbu uniforms with their masks facing away from their faces for now. All of their needed gear was also strapped onto themselves as they sat and listened to their younger siblings chatter and laughter. Itachi smirked to himself as his thoughts suddenly switched towards his younger brother.
Sasuke had been eager to leave that morning. He was jumping around his older sibling trying to encourage Itachi, to hurry up. Itachi had been busy inspecting Sasuke's overnight bag. After he noticed there were only toys and some snacks that Sasuke had sneaked out of the kitchen and placed inside of the bag.
"Sasuke, where are your clothes?" A curious Itachi asked.
"What-" Sasuke started to ask before he realized the bag his big brother was currently rummaging through was his own. They were in Itachi's room as Sasuke ran in there once he had done with his 'packing'.
"Clothes, little brother. You know. Where's your pajamas and underwear? Do you plan on going to bed naked after your bath? I think you'll get laughed at."
Sasuke made a face and with exasperation let his thoughts be known.
"But Itachi, there wasn't any more room in the bag for clothes. And I wanted to bring my ninja gear in case I have to protect Naruto!"
Itachi smiled at this. Sasuke's ninja toys were not going to protect a kitten from a bath. Let alone protect his best friend.
"I see. But you are going on an away mission." Itachi decided to humor his little brother. "Therefore, you still have to pack at least some clean underwear."
Sasuke thought about this for a moment. Mother always said that clean underwear was important to have on. Especially after a bath. He remembered his mother getting upset once when he tried to put his old dirty ones back on after a bath. He never tried it again.
"Okay." An embarrassed Sasuke replied.
Itachi saw the embarrassment which was followed by disappointment on his little brother's face. So he decided that he would help him out.
"I'll tell you what. Why don't I get my overnight bag? We can pack you some clothes in it. I'll carry it for you. This way, you can still have your weapons to help protect Naruto. And still have some clean clothes on while you're at it." A smirk played on Itachi's face.
Sasuke didn't pay attention to the playful tease in his brother's voice as he was too busy taking in the logical reasoning behind what was said.
"That's a great idea, Itachi, Thanks!"
"Your very welcome, Sasuke. Now let's go and get you something to wear for tomorrow as well as a pair of pajamas for tonight."
Now they were here at Kakashi's house. Itachi looked over at his captain and best friend. Kakashi was sitting with both of his arms bend at the elbows and resting on his thighs. His hands were clasped together underneath his chin. His mind, Itachi could tell was a million miles away from here. So Itachi made a sound of clearing his throat lightly to get Kakashi's attention. Kakashi turned slightly to look at his team mate but didn't say anything.
"It shouldn't be much longer before Guy shows up. "
"I know. But it feels like it's taking him forever to get here."
"It always does when it's something important that is happening."
"Yeah, I guess so." Kakashi replied. But then his voice sounded a little distressed and Itachi was going to ask him what was wrong. When Kakashi spoke up.
"Itachi, there is something I want to ask of you."
"Yes."
"If anything happens to me out there. Please promise me that you will take care of Naruto."
Itachi looked at his captain with mild surprise. But he quickly answered.
"Nothing bad is going to happen to you. I won't allow it…Besides, Naruto would string me up by my toes if I did."
Kakashi snorted at that and allowed his arms to rest at his sides. As he leaned back into the couch with a sigh.
"It's just that this is Madara that we're going after. I know that I will have to go all out in the fight against him. Hell, we all will to just try and survive. And I need to survive this fight. Because I don't know what will happen to Naruto if I don't. That's why I asked you to take care of him. If I can't return. Believe me, Itachi, when I tell you that I will do whatever it takes to bring Madara down. Even at the cost of my own life."
Itachi started to say something but didn't get the chance as there was a knock at the front door. Both of the younger siblings appeared immediately in the living room. After hearing the knock, Kakashi lifted himself from the couch quickly and opened the door.
"Ah, my esteemed rival. I have come as promised bearing gifts and a playmate for Naruto and Sasuke." An enthusiastic Guy said.
"Thanks for coming Guy, I really appreciate this." Answered Kakashi as he backed away to the side of the door to allow the two guests entry into the house.
"There's no need of thanking me, Kakashi. I'm happy to help. Also, I enjoy watching the power of youth flow through these youngsters."
At this Naruto and Sasuke came up to greet them.
"Hello, Guy and Lee." They both chirped in unison.
Lee grinned at the two and then looked up at Guy for approval. Guy nodded his head and with a gentle push. Sent Lee over to the two youngsters. They immediately went back to the playroom. Kakashi touched Guy's shoulder and then moved away towards the kitchen. Guy followed along with Itachi, Who by this time had pulled his mask back around to cover his face. Guy didn't know that Itachi was weasel. Neither was he supposed to know either. The three entered the kitchen and Kakashi began to give Guy the run down on what he had prepared for them.
"Guy, I prepared pizza for the boys. I made five trays. You know that Naruto will eat two of those trays himself." He chuckled before he continued. I also have prepared pancake batter for tomorrow morning as well. So don't sit up late waiting for us. We will probably be out all night. There is bacon in the first bin in the refrigerator. As for everything else, you know what to do."
"Yes, Kakashi. Don't worry about a thing. The boys will be well taken care of. I won't let anything happen to them-not on my watch."
"Again, thanks." Kakashi replied relieved. "Now we better be going."
Guy went and placed the two quarts of ice cream he had brought into the freezer. As Kakashi and Itachi said their good byes to their brothers.
"Hey, Sasuke, Kakashi and I are leaving now. You behave yourself while I'm gone. I don't want to have to report to father that you acted like a rouge Nin okay?"
"No. Itachi, I won't be bad. I promise. Do well tonight and catch that embarrassment for father."
Itachi hugged his little brother tight as he chuckled.
"You bet, little brother. We will."
Kakashi walked over to his little brother and kneeled down. "Hey, sorry I have to leave you here alone on a night like this. But you will be safer here then with me tonight."
Naruto got closer to his brother. Walking between Kakashi's legs so that he could wrap his arms around his big brother in a hug.
"I know, Kashi. Do what you have to do. I know that everything will be alright."
"I will, Naruto. Promise me that you will be good for Guy while I'm gone."
"I promise, Kashi. Come home safe please."
"I promise." Kakashi hugged his little brother tighter and then let go. Naruto backed up as Kakashi stood to his full height. They left the play room along with the Uchiha brothers and little Lee following them. Once they got to the front door. Kakashi pulled his Anbu mask around and over his other mask that he always wore to the front as well.
"Well, I guess this good-bye for now." A somber Kakashi said.
The door was opened and the two Anbu left swiftly. Disappearing into the glow of the late afternoon sun. Guy and the boys watched as they departed until they were no longer in sight. Then they turned to go back inside. Guy couldn't help but feel a deep sorrow start to burn in his gut. He didn't know why it was there and the worst part was. He felt like it had something to do with him. But for the life of him he couldn't figure what.
4:15pm
Kakashi and Itachi arrive at Anbu headquarters. They make their way inside and find Anko and Yamato waiting for them. They greet each other as they all walk on towards the small conference room. There will be one more briefing before they are all sent out to start setting up traps in the woods near the village. And securing their hiding spots to ambush the enemy. The surveillance teams have been deployed over fifteen minutes ago and everyone is eagerly awaiting news of Madara's team from them. Kakashi gets him team ready to leave after the short last minute briefing and heads out for the woods to start laying traps.
Within the village, security detail has been split between the Uchiha police force and regular shinobi forces. They are to assist each other in co-operative mission. The objective is twofold. Protect the civilians from a possible battle with the enemy within the gates. Or two, protect the populace from a possible riot that probably will take place within the gates. The Anbu that are to work within the gates as well are on a different objective. For them the mission is to keep up with the 'Jinchurriki bait' as he moves through the village. Assisting him only if the more aggressive villagers try to capture and beat or kill him. Genma was to help keep them as well as everyone within the village on the 'Dog Catcher' mission informed of where the bait was at all times. And whether or not Madara had abducted the target.
5:00pm
The first news from the surveillance teams isn't good news. Madara's forces have already arrived. And apparently have been there for a while. But they are still five miles out and stationary. The Akatsuki team has yet to be seen. The Hokage gives the order for the teams within the gates to keep their eyes peeled and look for a possible sighting of Madara being already within the gates. Outside the gates, Kakashi begins to get nervous. He receives the message that Madara's forces have already arrived. He requests permission to return back into the village to search for Madara and is denied. He remains with his team in hiding waiting for their target to come to them.
6:00pm
Guy is trying to act and sound as if he's alright. The boys have been playing ninja for over an hour. They were playing in the back yard while Guy watched them. Normally, he would participate in the games. But today he told them he didn't feel well and that he would just watch. The boys looked disappointed but soon took to their play. Before long, Guy called them into the house so that he could get the first four trays of pizza into the oven. In the meantime, Sasuke had asked what they wanted to do now that they were inside. They all decide to sit at the coffee table and color while they wait for the pizza. Once the fifth tray of pizza has been devoured. Guy then gets the boys upstairs for bath time. The edginess Guy feels doesn't dissipates instead it only grows.
6:45pm
Madara's forces begin their move towards the village once again. The surveillance teams can't find Madara among them. It is now confirmed that he must be within the village. All teams within the gates have been alerted of the move. The Akatsuki can now be seen moving as well. They are staying under cover with their chakra hidden. They are two miles behind Madara's forces and closing slowly. In the meantime within the village, the patrons to the festival are already beginning to gather into the streets. In fifteen minutes the vendors will open their stands and the performers will begin their performances. At a shop in the eastern district sits an old man with a long red Yukata with a dragon wrapping around from the back to the front. He sits relaxed and is sipping green tea. There are two other men with him. Both are much younger and are also biding their time with the old man.
Madara looks quite calm on the outside but inside he is filled with excitement. So far everything is going as he planned it. He sits and mentally pats himself on the back. 'Those fools thought that they could deceive me and get away with it. I knew that I couldn't trust those three upstarts. They have a long way to go to get the better of me. Ha. I'm glad that I sent a new recruit to check on those three. Otherwise, I wouldn't have known that they intend to hand me over to the Leaf instead. This way I can steal the Nine tails brat away before they even know what happened and these stupid villagers are going to help me with my escape. Once I annihilate Yahiko's precious few followers. I will then take sweet revenge on him and those other two losers with him as well.'
Madara smirked as he looked up at a wall clock. The time was seven O'clock. It was time for the festival to begin and soon very soon it would be Madara who would be rewarded with a prize that was million times better then any stuffed toy at a vendor's booth. He places the tea cup down on the table and makes to stand. His followers copy his movements.
"We will wait until our pawn shows up with the child. But in the meantime, why don't we go and enjoy this festival that I personally created hm?"
The two men nod in agreement and all three of them walk out of the shop and into the festival.
The Hokage stands with his arms behind his back. He stares out his office window at the festival in progress. Behind him sitting in the wing back chairs are Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato. Each one is lost in his or her thoughts. Yahiko knew the moment that Madara's forces were first sighted that the man wouldn't be among them. He knew it. And therefore he was quick to tell the Hokage that Madara was definitely in the village. But they couldn't find him. And they had to assume that he was under a henge. The more experienced shinobi that could detect the subtle signs of a person in disguise. Were unsuccessful in finding Madara. There was just too many people out and about. There was nothing they could do but stick with their plan. Because in the end, Madara would have to break out of the village with Naruto in tow. They could only hope that he still took the decoy and not have somehow found a way to get his hands on the real Naruto.
It was seven thirty at Kakashi's house. The boys had their baths and were in their pajamas. Sitting down on the floor in front of the television with bowls of ice cream. The three boys laughed as they watched a video of a children's movie. Naruto was having a great time with his friends on his birthday. And he wished that this night would last forever. The only thing that would make it better were if Kakashi would show up with Itachi. Then it wouldn't be great. It would be better than great. It would be fantastic! As the clock struck eight. The movie had come to an end. And the children got up to take their bowls to the kitchen. Guy took the cassette out of the VCR. A present for Kakashi by Guy and Kakashi's other friends.
As the boys returned. They were laughing and smiling as they approached their babysitter. But as Guy turned around. The smiles and laughter died and confusion and even a bit of fear took their place. Lee was the first to speak.
"Guy-sensei, are you okay?"
"Yes, Lee, I'm fine. But I think it is time for us to go to the festival." Guy had a strange not altogether there look on his face. He smiled at them. But the smile was off.
"Why?" We aren't supposed to go to the festival. We're supposed to stay here." Replied Sasuke with worry.
"Nonsense boys! We can go to the festival". Guy spoke with vigor. "You are forgetting that I, Might Guy, am the noble blue beast of Konoha. The villagers will leave us well alone tonight. You have nothing to fear." At this, Guy did his best pose with his thumb sticking up and an unnatural gleam shining off his teeth as he smiled.
Naruto wasn't convinced neither was Sasuke. But Lee believed his babysitter and friend.
"Oh come on guys. If Guy-sensei says we are safe with him. Then we are. No one will harm us. And aren't you curious to see what is at this festival?" A curious Lee spoke.
"We aren't supposed to go. And I don't want to go either. I want to stay here with you guys and have fun here." Retorted a frustrated Naruto.
"Yeah, we should stay here." Agreed Sasuke.
"No. we are going to the festival boys and that's final." Shouted Guy in anger. He didn't know why but he just had to get Naruto to the festival before eight-thirty. And with that he grabbed Naruto quickly under his waist pulling him off the ground. Naruto began to panic. He struggled in Guy's arm but to no avail. Sasuke immediately sprang into action. Kicking Guy and yelling at him demanding that he put his best friend down. This resulted in Guy picking up Sasuke after a bit of a struggle. Now having both boys secured. Naruto under his right. And Sasuke under his left, Guy made to leave the house with a now worried and scared Lee following them. As they left the house the clock on the living room wall read eight-fifteen.
Naruto was crying now. He knew something was most definitely wrong with their baby sitter. And he was terrified as to what will happen at the festival. Naruto wasn't an idiot. He knew that whatever happened tonight would involve the villagers. And now that his baby sitter was breaking the rules that his Kashi had set for them. Naruto could do nothing but cry in fear. Sasuke was trying to comfort his friend as best he could. While still struggling to break the man's hold on him. He was both angry and scared. But he vowed to himself that whatever happens he would not turn chicken and leave Naruto alone. He still remembered the brawl he and Naruto had against the bullies in the large park. But this was going to be so much worse than that. Sasuke silently prayed that their big brothers would come and save them as they had done back then.
Guy slowed down as they made their way into the clearing. He could hear the sounds of the festival and knew that his mission was almost done. He walked into the village and headed for the eastern district as ordered by Madara. Many villagers saw the four making their way through the streets. Most ignored them as they continued to party. But a few began to follow at a safe distance. Guy was oblivious to the growing mob behind him. As he continued to make haste to get to the eastern district as swiftly as possible.
Madara and his two followers climbed the wall of a nearby building across the street from the small tea shop that they had originally been in.
"Well, boys get ready. About any minute now we should be seeing a skirmish begin ten blocks down from where we are." A smirking Madara said. 'This is it. The day I've been waiting for. And soon the prize shall be mine. Then the vengeance I crave will finally be a reality.'
Kakashi and his team where in position waiting and had been waiting for what seemed too long to Kakashi. He was angry and frustrated that he wasn't able to go back and see how his little brother was doing. The nagging feeling that he wasn't okay was starting to get to Kakashi. It was taking all of his professionalism to keep himself where he was ordered to be. His thoughts raced along with his heart as he tried to calm himself down. 'I have to keep a grip on myself. Even if Madara somehow gets a hold of Naruto. They still have to come through the gates to rejoin his forces. I can't afford to take off out of here and possibly miss their coming by here. No. I need to stay calm and stick with the plan. But I can't help but believe that the mission has gone awry. And my little brother is caught up in the damn festival. If Guy doesn't have a very damn good excuse for allowing my brother to be taken. I will skin him alive. And then chidori his ass. I won't even bother burying him. I'll just leave him in the woods for the animals to feed on.'
Guy now stopped and placed the boys down over ten blocks away from the very person that they all were trying to avoid. Confusion soon expressed itself on his face. Why were they in the middle of the village? Why weren't they still at the house watching a movie? But as soon as Naruto's feet hit the ground. He began to run. Sasuke a second later. And only then did Guy realize what he had done. Neither of the boys stayed long enough nor looked back to see a horrified and paralyzed Guy standing in the middle of the street. While several people streamed passed in pursuit of the frightened boys. Sasuke only reached for and grabbed Naruto's hand. As the two ran as fast as their little legs could go.
"We need to stay together. If we get separated it will be harder for our big brother's to find us." Sasuke shouted as the mob began their chase.
Naruto couldn't speak. His fear being so high. All he could do was nod his head at his friend to let him know that he heard and understood him. Sasuke saw the fear in his friend's eyes. Something he would never forget. They held such terror and hopelessness. It was a look Sasuke never wanted to see again on his friends face. He squeezed Naruto's hand gently as they ran. They turned down a side street at the very end of the block they were on. The mob was still with them and now they were throwing bottles and small rocks at them as they ran and shouted obscenities. Fortunately, the bottles missed them as they crashed all around the two boys. But some of the rocks though, were hitting them. Leaving them bruised and with small cuts. But neither would stop.
The festival was all over the village and there was no escaping it. Once again the boys came to the end of the street. They turned back up towards the main road again. But soon ran into street performers that were doing a dance routine. They ended up running right into the performers and knocking some of them down along with themselves. Sasuke was the first to regain his feet. He pulled Naruto up with him. And they were running again. Some of the audience that had been watching the dancers. Heard then saw the mob coming up the side street as well. And having recognized the two little boys running. They immediately put two and two together and made a blockade to the mob. The mob was furious and demanded that the others move out of their way. But the spectators refused and an all-out brawl ensued in the streets.
The members of the Uchiha police force were the first to arrive at the first brawl and caught a glimpse of not one but two little boys running away from a mob. Their hearts sank as they quickly realized that the mission had somehow been breached. It was Naruto and Sasuke they saw running for their lives. The police reported swiftly to the commander-in-chief of the operation 'Dog Catcher.' Most of the police on scene stayed to break up the fighting that was heatedly continuing just below them. Others followed the boys and continued to report every turn and direction the boys in their panic took.
The commander-in-chief, Shikaku took in the news by wire with a heavy heart. This wasn't supposed to happen this way. But there was no time to waste in kicking himself or trying to figure out why it failed. Now was the time for clear and focused thoughts. He has the communication sent to all forces except to Kakashi's team. Using sensory type shinobi to relay the message telepathically. Shikaku needs Kakashi to stay on task. If Madara makes it out of the village with the boys. Then it will be up to Kakashi's team to pursue and overtake. And knowing Kakashi, he will also eliminate the target as well. Which was fine with Shikaku. He then orders the regular shinobi in the furthest districts to move towards the eastern district. Now that they know where Madara probably is lying in wait to snag the boys. They needed to try and keep up with the boys. For Madara had only planned on taking Naruto. If he is presented with Sasuke as well. He will most likely kill the boy before leaving the village. And Heaven help them all if the head of the Uchiha clan loses his youngest son.
Naruto is running hard and zigzagging through the eastern district. Sasuke has kept a surprisingly strong hold on his hand as they were bumped into and pushed and prodded. They ran and dodged waiting mobs. They managed to escape most of them. Running the mob around in circles at times. They didn't know where to go and they couldn't stop long enough to think of what to do. Their minds only repeating a mantra of RUN! Down another side street then running to the end of it. Crossing over a main street and then straight into another side street. Only to turn at the end of it onto the main. Tripping and bumping into festive villagers at every turn. At every straight away. They were beginning to tire. And then it happened, Naruto was knocked to the ground taking Sasuke with him.
In that moment two strange men had reached down and grabbed them. Both boys screamed and fought hard against their captors. This alerted the people around them. Some started to go over and assist the boys. While others went to see the beating of the 'demon child' and his friend. But it turned into another brawl as the first group latched onto the strange men who turned out to be Madara's followers. The boys were ripped from Madara's men. The force of the action causing the men to lose their grips on the two boys. The second group that wanted bloodlust. Became angry and tried to stop the first group from assisting the boys. Naruto and Sasuke hit the ground hard. But were quickly up and running. The brawl continued on as others tried to run after the boys to harm them. Yet, there were other people still that wouldn't let the aggressors near the boys. Everyone seemed to have taken sides in whether or not the Jinchurriki child had a right to live or not.
Madara stood on the roof top in shock. He had just witnessed the death of one of his men. It truly shocked him. The villagers were fighting each other over the Jinchurriki. A broken bottle welded like a finely made kunai was shoved into the man's jugular as he attempted to recapture the boy. The murderer wasn't even a shinobi. A middle aged man caught up in bloodlust, still in his baker's uniform was the murderer. He knew that the villagers hated the Jinchurriki for what Madara had done to them. But he never realized it would be this deep a hatred. Or that some of the people would let go of the hate and defend the boy with equal passion. It had been four years since the Kyubbi attack. Madara thought that the people would still remember, yes. But he thought that their hatred would have simmered down with the passage of time. Still angry but not filled with bloodlust that they now had. Apparently this was not the case. Now one of his loyal followers was dead. It was time for a slight change in plans.
Sasuke led Naruto down another street. He was looking for a place to hide them. This last interruption in their being captured and beaten had once again been thwarted. And allowed the boys for the first time since this nightmare began. A chance to find a hiding place. Both boys were well spent by now. So Sasuke tugged lightly on Naruto's hand towards an alleyway that was open at both its ends. There was a dumpster along the left wall with three wooded crates beside it. When Naruto saw what Sasuke was looking at in the alleyway. He willingly followed his friend in. They walked as quietly as they could over to the dumpster. Sasuke made sure the crates were secure. Before he climbed up. The lid of the dumpster was already in the open position. He quickly climbed in and turned around to help Naruto who, was now climbing up into the dumpster as well. Together they pulled down the lid and huddled close to each other. Sasuke wrapped his arms around Naruto to keep him from crying. They could hear angry voices just down the street and those voices were getting closer. All the two little boys could do was cling to each other and hope.
Shinobi were all over the place breaking up fights all over the eastern district. The noise and chaos was equal to what many veterans would say later sounded and looked like a war. There was no way they could apprehend Madara within the gates. It wasn't possible. Many could only hope that some of their comrades would be able to keep up with the two little boys. They needed Madara to still capture them. It was the only way to bring an end to Madara. But no one wanted and had tried so hard to keep the real Naruto out of this mess. Now they have no choice but to go with things the way they were in hopes that the pursuit teams can catch the bastard.
Fugaku was sitting in his office at the station. A young member of the force by the name of Yugi came and told him that his youngest son has been caught up in the violence of the festival. Before the man even had time to react. Another officer came in quickly and said that the boy was taken. Fugaku went from shock to rage within seconds.
"I want my second in command in here now!" He bellowed. The two officers winced at the volume and expression of the man before them. But went did as they were told.
Seconds later the second in command, Toshiro strode into the office.
"Toshiro, you are in charge here."
"Yes, sir. May I ask where you are going?"
"I'm going to do something that I wanted to do now for a long time." Fugaku paused for a moment as if he was contemplating how he was going to do what it was he was concocting. Then he looked up and continued.
"I'm going to kill that bastard Madara."
"Good hunting, sir."
"Thanks." Fugaku pressed a hand onto his second in commands shoulder and nodded briefly on his way out. 'Yes. This will be the final hunt for that menace. And if he has harmed Sasuke or worse. There won't be any place in this world or beyond where he can hide from me.'
Saratobi stood outside on the roof of the Hokage tower. He was shouting out commands to shinobi that had been called upon from reserves. The situation within the eastern district was getting worse. The members gathered were all down on one knee with their heads bowed as the Hokage spoke. Saratobi's voice was grave as he spoke.
"Listen well. The Kitsune festival is being immediately shut down. I want the following teams to follow the three Anbu to north, south, and western districts. You are to assist those already there in getting the civilians to return to their homes. Anyone that defies the order to return home are to be arrested. Teams A thru G, you will go with Anbu operative Badger, to the north district. Teams H thru N, you will be following operative Lion to the western district. And finally, Teams O thru U, you will be led by operative Hawk to the south district. The rest of you will be accompanying me to the eastern district."
A young ninja raised her hand for audience. The Hokage nodded for her to speak.
"Sir, what is happening? I can hear the sounds of a ruckus going on. But it sounds as if it is coming from everywhere." She spoke in a serious yet confused tone.
"I won't lie to you. The village is currently in an uproar in the eastern district". Most shinobi were shocked to learn this. Those that lived near the eastern district, however were not. The Third continued. "The purpose of those going with me is to set up a gauntlet. So that none of the villagers in other districts wonder into the chaos that has now become the eastern district. We will keep anyone from getting into that area. And we will not fail. The reason this is happening is because Madara has returned."
At this every shinobi stiffened. And immediately they all thought the same thing. The Third spoke up quickly to squelch that thought that raced through their minds.
"If you are thinking that he has set loose the Nine-tails. I assure you that he hasn't. What's happening now is because of his actions four years ago". The Hokage paused for a moment taking in each and every shinobi's expression. Before he continued. "The young Jinchurriki has been taken from his safe house and has been deliberately brought to the festival. We don't know for sure if it is Madara himself taking him through the village. Or if he has the aid of someone else doing it for him. What we do know is that he is trying to abduct the boy and is using the angst of the villagers as a distraction for his escape."
"But sir, if he is here and has the child. Then shouldn't we be going after him instead?!" Exclaimed a shocked ninja.
"No. We aren't". Except for the Anbu, everyone flinched at the statement. "There are pursuit teams waiting outside the village for Madara. Our job is to bring the eastern district back under control. If we don't. The damage done this time around by Madara will be far worse than when he let the Kyubbi loose. And let me make this crystal clear now…failure is not an option."
The Anbu seeing the signal from the Hokage, went and stood calling each his group of teams that were dispatched to him and led them off to their assigned district. The Hokage took the lead with the remainder of the teams and headed to the now war torn eastern district.
Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato had left the Hokage tower earlier. They were already in the eastern district looking for the child that was forced to be the center of the chaos that was happening. It frightened Konan to see such violence happening in a village that she had actually was starting to become fond of. She couldn't believe what happened four years ago has now had the chance to reopen an partially healing wound. Everywhere she looked there was fighting. Several fires had been lit in the process. So many people who didn't want any violence at all. Where now finding themselves caught between those that hated the Jinchurriki and those who had learned to have compassion. As the three of them ran, Konan could only imagine how terrified Naruto had to be right now.
Yahiko was pissed. He ran forcefully with his eyes narrowed. Their brown orbs lit with an internal fire. All he could think about was how foolish he had been. This would never had happened if he could have just seen Madara for what he was then. 'How many times had I been warned by my instincts about him? I should have known that night he returned that something horrible would happen. I was so worried about him taking over what Konan, Nagato, and I have worked so hard for. That I didn't even see that there would be consequences within this village for what he had done. For what I had allowed to happen. Damn it!' Yahiko continued to search and blame himself.
Nagato ran beside his companions with a somber expression. He hated seeing this happening. And he knew that they were partly responsible for this outcome in Konoha. The only consolation for him and his companions were that they were at least here now. That they were trying to make things right again. But looking at the suffering and the rage that flowed through the streets below them. It almost made him question why they ever created Akatsuki in the first place.
Naruto and Sasuke stayed quiet. But Naruto couldn't stop shaking. As the people edged closer, Sasuke held his friend tighter as much out of fear as it was for trying to comfort his friend. The voices were now just at the entrance of the alleyway. Both boys could hear the mob shouting of which direction they went. Some yelled one direction while others said it was another place. In the end, they started walking down the alleyway. The leaders of the group looked over at the dumpster. But then dismissed it thinking that the children wouldn't be able to lift the top up. Since the crates were only wide enough for one set of feet on top of them at a time. Neither child was strong enough to push up the lid of the dumpster on their own. So the group concluded that the boys had to have run down the other end of the alley. But as they were making their way past. A faint whimper was heard and without hesitation the mob quickly flipped the lid up.
Naruto had tried so hard to keep quiet. But his fear had gotten the better of him and a small sound escaped him. As soon as it did, he knew they were caught. In the next instant the lid was lifted up and both boys were violently dragged out and thrown to the ground. They hit the pavement hard. Naruto was screaming even before the first blow was struck. Sasuke was crying and trying to cover Naruto while screaming at the mob for an answer for why they were doing this to them. One man actually stopped the group long enough to answer.
"Because this demon killed our families. He may look like an innocent child but he is a monster. He is the Nine tail fox, and he deserves to die!"
Another spoke up as well. "Since you have decided to choose him over us. You will share his fate. Uchiha or not we don't give a damn. Die with the Monster!" He roared.
The rain of blows started again. The boys tried to clasp hands and stay close. Trying desperately to stay together to protect each other. They were kicked and stomped on. Then one woman armed with a broken piece of glass. Raked the glass over Naruto while another armed also with a piece of glass did the same to Sasuke. Their pajama shirts ripped under the slashes that were made to their chests and stomachs. Sasuke started kicking up at their attackers and Naruto followed his example. The noise of the crowd was overwhelming and each boy thought that they were going to die. When Sasuke saw the woman plunge the glass into Naruto's shoulder. He tried to lunge over his friend to protect him from any more pain. Only to have the other shove the glass she was holding into his right leg. At that moment, Sasuke thought that they would die.
In his mind as everything was starting to become distant, Sasuke heard a voice. A very familiar voice speaking to him urgently. And with the voice came a face. It was Kakashi's. Kakashi's single eye was boring into Sasuke with a look of urgency deep within it. Kakashi was saying something to him. What? What do you want me to do? When Sasuke wasn't getting it. Kakashi took a stance and at first nothing seemed to be happening. But then a silvery blue aura began to surround Kakashi. And at that instant Sasuke knew what to do. Gathering his chakra carefully, Sasuke began to pulse his chakra like a beacon. Naruto looked briefly at his friend and sensing the aura did likewise. Before long both boys passed out. But just before he did, Naruto saw a tall man with orange spikey hair and a black hooded robe with red clouds billowing behind him leap off the roof above them. Then all went black.
The Akatsuki trio were losing hope as they raced from one rooftop to the next. Nagato made the suggestion that they should split up. They could cover more ground that way. Yahiko agreed and the trio moved off in different directions. Konan made to the right. Nagato went left. While Yahiko continued to move straight ahead. He had been running for ten minutes when he thought he saw just ahead to his right a mob that was running into a side street or alleyway. He decided to move in that direction. As he neared he felt a pulse of two chakra's radiating out from that area. Since he had never known the boys chakras, Yahiko, wasn't sure these two chakras were theirs or not. But even if it wasn't it had to be two people in distress. Quickly making the scene, Yahiko looked over the edge of the roof. His anger was ignited at what he heard and saw. The two little boys were being pummeled and stabbed at and all the while people within the mob that couldn't get close enough to make an attack. Were shouting and cheering the people in front that were. They were getting ready to move the boys out into the main street so that more of the mob could attack them.
Yahiko swiftly leaped down with a roar tearing from his throat. At first, the mob backed away in fright from the roar and appearance of the newcomer. But then they began to gather courage. Due to having the strength of numbers on their side. However, Yahiko wasn't impressed. He began to summon chakra to make an attack of his own. This in turn, caught the attention of Konan and Nagato, who both raced in the same direction. They arrived and seeing what Yahiko was about to do. Turned their heads away so they wouldn't be temporarily blinded by Yahiko's Sunburst technique.
Yahiko released his chakra in a glowing burst of light and the mob was temporarily blinded. The mob began cussing and yelling furiously. Nagato jumped down from the roof to help Yahiko with the children. The boys were bleeding heavily and out cold.
"Let's get these two boys to the hospital immediately." An anxious Yahiko said.
"No. Let's take them to the operation's command center instead, Yahiko." Reasoned Nagato. "If we go there the Anbu medics can give them emergency aid. If we run into the hospital with the boys. The chances are great that families of victims of this riot will attack us. Before we can even see a doctor."
"Plus." Added Konan who had just jumped down from the roof. "You don't know which doctors are willing to help the boys and which ones won't.
Yahiko, who had been looking at Naruto the whole time as his friends spoke. Now looked up at them.
"You're both right. We will head there at once."
And with that the trio made their way back to the rooftops and towards the command center.
Madara saw the Akatsuki trio rescue the boys from the mob. He was standing some five rooftops away from them. Behind a water tower support. And he knew right then and there that he had made several mistakes. Several grievous mistakes. The first being that he underestimated the villager's hatred. The deaths of both of his followers, followers that were experienced shinobi. Shinobi that if they didn't have to try to conceal who they really were could have fought and killed the civilians around them with ease. And would have scared off any farther attempt on their lives from the rest. Madara hadn't been able to predict the level of hatred nor could he predict the level of bloodlust the villagers would have. There was no way he could get out of the village with the Jinchurriki alive. It would have required a fight that would have blown his cover. Bringing Anbu and Jounin alike into the fight which would have resulted in his death.
The next mistake was even worse. The underestimation of the Hokage and his council. The Hokage may be old. And the council may act like they belonged in a zoo most of the time. But that didn't mean that they wouldn't all agree unanimously on some things and work together to achieve them. Case in point, the sheer number of shinobi out in force at this year's festival. Madara had been keeping track of each festival that has happened. In previous years, there has never been such a show of force out at the celebration. In his eagerness to obtain his prize, Madara failed to take notice during the day hours the amount of security that was present at this year's event. He also failed to realize all too late. How quickly Anbu teams and regular shinobi were dispatched when the rioting began. Finally, there is his supposed alliance with Akatsuki. Madara has just now witnessed his 'allies' leaving with the boy. And they were heading not towards the gates to escape. But running farther into the village instead. When they had promised to capture and bring the boy to him. If they were really going to do that at all. Apparently they're not.
In conclusion Madara has been played. He needs to cut his losses and get out of this village. The longer he stays here now. The more likely his own troops will be spotted and dealt with. If they haven't been already. He heads for the exit. His thoughts race along with his footsteps. 'I should have paid more attention back at the Akatsuki base. Yahiko is young. But he is no fool. There was bound to be a time when he would have caught onto me. But I was so sure I had him completely outsmarted. Where did I go wrong? I have more experience than him. How could I get caught at my own game? Damn it! And it's more than likely that there is an ambush waiting for me as soon as I leave the gates. I will survive this somehow. I will never give up on my revenge of my clan and this village. I refuse to have my life achievement be that I gave this village a damn festival!'
Madara decides to not try to go through the gates at the eastern end. Instead he goes over the wall farther back away from the gates and out of view of the guards. Once over it, Madara, drops his henge and takes to the trees in flight. But here would be Madara's last mistake and one he would never realize he made. Kakashi had summoned his ninken and dispersed them in a wide semi arc going three miles out from the eastern gates. Uhei, was the hound that spotted Madara. And Uhei, is the fasted of Kakashi's ninken. Before Madara had made the first mile of his two mile rendezvous with his forces. Uhei, had reached Kakashi first. And Kakashi was one of the fastest shinobi in all of the village hidden in the leaves. Madara would never see his forces. Instead, he will be staring into the mismatched eyes of death itself.
The eastern district was beginning to blaze in the indigo skies. Flames were reaching for the stars that shone brightly overhead. Mob- crazed villagers were setting fires everywhere within the district. Vandalism was rampart. And the fighting continued to grow ever fiercer. The Hokage reached the district swiftly with his teams. They quickly set-up a perimeter around the outer edge of the district. Forming an impenetrable wall of living flesh and bone. Already many villagers had started making their way towards the eastern district. Most of them where simply coming to see the attractions that were offered there. But as they came closer and saw the burning skies. They began to fear what has happened. Fireworks this wasn't. And they began to conclude that the demon must have gotten out. So some began to retreat. While others were pushing on ahead. They were determined to see what was happening. And if their fellow villagers were fighting the demon. Then they would come and help them.
The wall of shinobi that faced them all upon their arrival was a formidable sight. The Hokage stepped forward and spoke to the people.
"Citizens of Konoha, I am ordering you to return to your homes. The festival has been shut down. Everyone is to go home immediately." The Hokage stood with a fierce look. Daring his villagers to defy him.
One young man shouted back. "And what of the noise we hear and the fire we see coming from the district? Is the demon loose in the village?"
"No. This is not the case, I assure you. But you are to return to your homes immediately. I say this for your safety. If I say this one more time you will live to regret it."
People began to wavier. They did not want to take on their Hokage mostly out of respect. But also because of fear. They knew they didn't stand a chance against him or the shinobi that stood strong with him. So most people turned and left murmuring amongst themselves as to what could have possibly happened to cause the eastern district to erupt into violence. However, some weren't going to be told where to go. These people stubbornly believed that the demon was loose. Finally. After waiting three years since the initial attack by the demon. These people wanted payback. And no Hokage or shinobi was going to just tell them to leave well enough alone. The hell with the Hokage and his shinobi. They were always protecting that little brat. Everyone knew that the child wasn't really a child but a monster. If the Hokage was going to try and protect the demon instead of his own village then so be it. Clearly the demon had gotten to the Hokage somehow and is being controlled. Exactly as the former council members Koharu and Homura had been telling them.
The villagers remaining were now a small mob. The Third prepared to take them on. Shinobi teams on both sides of him also prepared for battle. They wouldn't kill the people. But they were definitely going to make them hurt. The young man in front raised his hand high in the air and shouted with pure anger.
"Death to the Kyubbi!" And with that the mob made their charge. The Hokage made several hand signs and the battle was on.
After leaving the police station, Fugaku had quickly gone back to the Uchiha district. He called for the elders of his clan and told them the situation. It was swiftly spread throughout the compound that those who were able to go forth to the battle were needed. Nearly everyone showed up in front of the clan chamber. Only the very old and those who were nursing injuries from previous missions stayed behind. Fugaku was quick to be on his way. But there was one place he needed to go before he left for the battle.
Mikoto was at the command center. And Fugaku wanted to see her before he left. In case he didn't see her again. His thoughts were of his family in general as he sped through the streets towards the center with the rest of the Uchiha behind him. 'I can only hope that Itachi is doing well in the battle. I'm positive that bastard has left the village by now. There's no way he would remain within the gates at this point. His objective has been thwarted. Still, I worry for Sasuke as well. He and Naruto were attacked. I haven't even got an update as to how the two are doing. Did they escape? Or are they dying at the hands of the mob? God, I hope that that isn't the case. I don't know what I will do. If my youngest has been taken from me. Or even if they succeed and take away Naruto. The child has grown on me. As well as his surrogate brother, Kakashi…Kakashi. If Naruto dies it will kill Kakashi. That can't be allowed to happen to them.' And if my son and his friend have died. There will be no place in this world where that man can hide himself.' Fugaku's thoughts were broken when his eyes revealed to him the command center. He quickly made his way inside. As the others waited for him outside.
Mikoto had been pacing within the main room. Yahiko and his friends had left to try and find the boys and rescue them. She didn't know where the trio were at the moment. She didn't know where her boys were at this moment either and this terrified her. 'Sasuke. I can only hope that you and Naruto are still alive. Please hang in there. Yahiko and his friends are looking for you baby. Stay strong for me.' She began to cry. It was so hard not to and she knew that she shouldn't. She needed to be strong for everyone around her. She needed to show that they would succeed tonight. Besides, it won't do anything but upset her boys more when they were brought to her. 'Yes'. She thought. 'Naruto and Kakashi are my boys as well.' At this last thought, Mikoto, pulled herself together. As she did so, a young woman rushed into the room. Mikoto could tell from the way she carried herself. The young woman had news to tell.
"Councilwoman Uchiha, the lookout says that the Akatsuki trio is returning. And they appear to have both of the boys with them, Ma'am."
Mikoto let out a sigh of relief as she wiped away the stray tear from her eye.
"Thank you, Ina." Mikoto gratefully replied. She made her way over to the emergency triage that had been set up two doors down to wait for them.
Yahiko came in quickly with Naruto and Nagato was right behind him with Sasuke. Both boys were unconscious. Mikoto's eyes started to tear up again as she saw their condition. They both were covered in blood and broken glass was protruding from their bodies. A medic Nin walked over to them quickly and directed the men to lay the boys down on the stretchers. Yahiko laid Naruto slowly and gently. Nagato repeating the action with Sasuke on the stretcher next to Naruto. They both backed away a little to give the medic Nins room to work.
Konan walked over to Mikoto and placed her hand on Mikoto's shoulder. Mikoto barely even registered it as she watched the medics begin to work on saving the boys lives.
Fugaku walked into the command center some ten minutes after the Akatsuki trio. He was led immediately to the triage room. There he saw his wife standing quietly with Konan who was whispering comforting words to her. He made his way over to his wife and gently spoke to her.
"How are they?" A concerned familiar voice spoke in Mikoto's ear. Mikoto startled slightly at the voice as she turned to see her husband standing beside her.
"Fugaku. Thank God you're here." She said with teary eyes.
"It will be okay, Mikoto. They are strong boys."
Mikoto swiped at her eyes before she spoke. "Of course, dear. They will be. This is Konan. Her friends have rescued and brought the boys here." Mikoto had turned to Konan with a small smile. With his emotions forever in check, Fugaku only nodded at the woman. Konan smiled and nodded in return.
"I think I need a drink. Would you like something as well?" Konan inquired.
"Yes, I would like a bottled water, please." Replied Mikoto. Fugaku only raised his hand mid-way in decline.
"Okay, I'll be back in a few minutes."
"Thank you."
Konan left them to see if her friends wanted anything before she left to get the drinks. After conversing with them. Konan left the room. She knew that Mikoto and her husband needed some time alone at the moment.
"Mr. and Mrs. Uchiha?" A tense male voice spoke up. The couple looked up to see the head medic looking at them.
"Yes?" Replied a stoic Fugaku.
"The boys are going to be in surgery for a while. I'm sorry. But I will need you and the others to leave us for now. This surgery will need our complete attention. We can't afford any distractions."
Fugaku wasn't offended at the request as he spoke. "I understand. Please let us know of how it went as soon as possible."
"Of course."
Yahiko and Nagato had only nodded and then left the room. Fugaku and Mikoto followed them out. But as soon as they reached the main room again. Fugaku remembered the others waiting outside for him.
"Mikoto, listen hon. I have to go now."
"What?"
"I have gathered the remaining members of our clan. We are going after Madara. I'm positive that he has left the village at this point. Even he knows that it is pointless to remain inside the gates now. I'm going to support Itachi and Kakashi."
Mikoto looked as if she was about to protest.
"Our son is strong and he is a prodigy". Fugaku continued. "But he is young and Madara has years of fighting experience under his belt. Kakashi also will have some trouble with the man. We need to be there to help them. Even your brother Shisui is going with us. So please don't worry."
Mikoto looked troubled yet resolved. "I understand. I have to stay here to lead the operation in the village. And I will keep a close eye on our boys. Stay safe and return to me. You and our other boys."
"I promise you I will, Mikoto." Fugaku wrapped his wife in an embrace and kissed her tenderly. Then he made his way outside to the others. Madara was waiting for them.
The idiots that thought rebellion was a good idea were getting their butts handed to them. Several had already been apprehended and the police force was busy taking them to a make shift jail in an old warehouse. Several traps were placed around the place to keep the hoodlums inside. The Hokage was annoyed with this disturbance. Because of this happening, he didn't know how things were going in the other districts. He certainly didn't know what was happening elsewhere within the district he was currently fighting in. If only he could get out of the village and go ring Madara's neck. Then he would feel better about the whole damn mess. He easily dodged a bottle that was thrown at him. Above the Hokage on either side of the street where shinobi that were monitoring the fight. They were filming the riot as evidence against the people involved in tonight's activities.
The reason the Hokage didn't just go and use a powerful jutsu on them was for evidence. The Daimyo would surely hear about this fiasco. He will want to see the footage and hand down sentence for what has happened tonight. He will be particularly displeased since he was the one who authorized the village's petition to have a festival in the first place. For these idiots, it most certainly won't go well for them once the Daimyo arrives. Which has reminded the Third, that he needs to send out a messenger hawk as soon as this riot has been dealt with. A shinobi blocks another thrown object at the Hokage. The Third turns to see Genma and Raidou standing in defensive positions next to him.
"We nearly have the village under control in the other districts. Most people did as they were told." Reported Genma as he threw a smoke bomb into the crowd. "Its time we wrap this up here as well. Oh and one more thing I was sent to tell you, sir."
"Yes, what is it?"
"The boys have been found. They have been taken to the command center." Genma stopped talking as he man handled a ruffian to the ground.
"How are the boys? Their alive right?" Asked the Hokage as he round house kicked his opponent to the street.
Raidou punched a man out cold. Before the man could bring down a piece of pipe down on his head. After the man was lying sprawled out on the ground. Raidou spoke with a bit of anger and worry.
"They aren't in good shape. In fact it looks bad."
"Then let's finish this up then. I need to get back to the command center pronto."
"Yes, sir." Answered Raidou and Genma in unison.
Madara thought he was making good time. He raced through the trees already thinking of ways to get even with the Hokage. But as he made his way. He saw, rather than sensed four figures up ahead of him. 'Only four?' He thought. 'They are full of themselves if they think they can take me on without back up.' He began to slow down as he neared the four man cell. The leader was wearing a wolf mask. The other three were standing alert and ready for anything. Madara deduced that normally cells would be made up of three people. If this cell has four it had to mean that one of the members was a newbie. Looking at wolf and the way he carried himself. Madara knew this was the group's leader. He also knew that he had seen wolf before as well as the one in the cat mask and the other in the snake mask. It was weasel that was new here. Therefore, Madara would exploit the greenness of the newcomer to his advantage. This fight would be over before they knew what hit them.
Kakashi stood tall at six foot two inches. His shoulders were squared and his head held high. He moved forward a little to show who was leader of this group in front of Madara. Kakashi was boiling inside as he watched Madara approach them. But he was well in control of his emotions. He already knew that Madara would have guessed that Itachi was the newcomer to his team. And would try to take advantage of him to get past them. But Madara didn't know that it was one of his clansman that was behind that mask. Itachi may be new to the team. But he was no push-over. Kakashi's attention came to the full when he heard his enemy speak.
"Well, I see we meet again. Although, this is the first time that we are actually this close to one another." Madara spoke nonchalantly as he came to a complete stop just five feet away.
"We have been expecting you, Madara. You weren't planning to leave the festival so soon now were you?" Inquired Kakashi as he slowly reached up and removed his Anbu mask.
Madara was shocked. But only slightly and let none of what he did feel surface onto his face. A poker face is always key when dealing with other ninja.
"So… I see that I will be dealing with the son of the White Fang. The son of a traitor."
"Coming from you that's laughable."
"That all depends."
"On what?"
"On whether or not your father failed his mission because he was a coward. Or if he meant to betray the trust his village placed on him. Either way, the man was indeed a traitor. I, at least had the decency to know who and what I was from the very beginning. Instead of masquerading around as someone I never was."
At this the forest erupted into chaos. Madara had leaped back a few more feet and began weaving hand signs at the same time. Kakashi recognized the signs as fireball jutsu. Yelling for everyone to get out of the way. The huge fireball swiftly shot past them and continued until it hit a few trees in the distance. Madara wasted no time in attacking the closest one he could get too. Anko sensed his presence to late as he struck her with a kunai. The kunai slashed deep into her gut. A wooded beam shot out from Yamato shoving Madara off balance forcing him to retreat back.
Kakashi prepared his chidori as Itachi made to distract Madara. Itachi went in quick throwing shuriken at Madara. Madara blocked the shuriken with his kunai. Then made use of some shuriken of his own. All of which, Itachi dodged expertly. Madara followed up with charging in as the boy had been distracted to block the shuriken. He tried to land a hard kick to Itachi's gut. But the boy back flipped three times out of the way. Now Kakashi charged in with his chidori. He managed to get behind Madara. While Madara fought with Itachi. Yamato, used nin-jutsu and created branches that snaked their way along the ground catching Madara's ankles and holding the man in place. Swiftly Madara did another fireball though much smaller and aimed it at his feet. The flames burned the branches quickly and Madara was up in the tree branch above him. Kakashi simply leaped onto the trunk using his chakra. Then proceeded to run up the tree and after Madara.
Anko was cussing softly to herself as she worked to get her stomach area stitched back up as quickly as possible. She needed to get back into the hunt. She had told Yamato, to go on ahead and help their teammates. She was sure that the boys could take care of themselves. But she didn't want to leave them alone with Madara. If nothing else, Anko would use a summoning and have her snakes poison the bastard to slow him down at least. If it didn't kill Madara first. She nearly had the job of stitching done. When she heard her name being called. Looking over at the battle scene, Anko saw another fireball heading for the very tree she was hiding behind. 'Well doesn't this just suck?' She thought sarcastically. She leaped away from the tree just in time. But nearly ripped her stitches in the process. Cussing even louder now because of the pain and the annoyance. Anko decided to try one more time to sew herself back up. After that, she was just going to do what she had decided on earlier to help out.
Yamato once again was trying to trap Madara in his nin-jutsu. But the task was made difficult with the three moving around constantly. Kakashi and Itachi each took turns distracting Madara as the other would go on the offensive. When one would fail. He would immediately switch to being the distraction. So that the other could now try to break through Madara's defenses. Up to this point, none of the Sharigan users tried using their Kekkei Genki's in the fight. They were testing each other. This match so far was merely a warm-up. And Kakashi's other two teammates knew this as well. Which was why after several unsuccessful attempts of trying to bind Madara in place. Yamato went to get Anko. Anko was just finishing the last stitch as her teammate approached.
"I think this match has become very personal to Kakashi and Itachi." A worried Yamato said.
"Ah, you think so, Woody?" Drawled Anko. "Their little brothers, are God knows where right now. And that bastard their chasing around may have very well killed them by the hand of our own damn villagers." Anko finished the last stitch. "There all done. Now how about you and I get to helping them out?'
"Sounds great to me."
"Then how about you and I try restricting his movement? If we can make it so he has less area to maneuver around in. It'll be harder for him to dodge attacks. A pensive Anko replies.
"I've been trying to restrict him but it's difficult when they are all over the place. And if we're not careful this time. We will end up restricting our teammates movements as well.'
'True. But we need to slow that bastard down."
"Well…how about this? Why don't I send a few wood clones in at the target? In the meantime you can send a couple of your snakes in after the clones have him secured for a few moments. The snakes can bite him. The result will be the slowing down of Madara or even his death. If you want to go that far?"
"I would love too, Yamato. But I get the feeling that Kakashi and Itachi wouldn't be happy if you and I bagged their kill today."
"My feelings exactly."
"Then it's agreed then?"
"Yes."
The two made to find a place to launch their ambush on Madara. It took several moments before the opportunity came to them. But when it did Yamato wasted no time creating and sending the clones. The three wooded clones made their way towards Madara. Kakashi and Itachi both saw their comrades preparing to make a strike. So they carried on as if they hadn't noticed. So that their target wouldn't notice what was about to happen. The clones took up the fight the instant Kakashi was forced to back flip out of Madara's slashing attack. Itachi didn't go in but stood back ready to move in should the clones fail.
The clones fought Madara well. And Anko waited for her turn to strike. The moment two of the clones had survived long enough to hold Madara. Anko sent the snakes. Two large snakes raced towards Madara to bite him with enough poison to impair his movement sufficiently. But once again Madara managed to escape the binding hold of Yamato and throwing two shuriken at the heads of the snakes killing them instantly. Before anyone could move in or back out of the way. Madara, threw six kunai with paper bombs attached. The kunai were heading in Yamato's and Anko's direction. The two made for an escape. The kunai struck the trees farther in and exploded. Both teammates were safe from the blast itself but got struck with the force of the blast that radiated outward. Catching the two and throwing them violently against more of the forest denizens. Knocking them out cold.
Fugaku made his way swiftly. He had the rest of the clan with him. And on their way out he had told them what they were to do. Shisui, and Togu, and Fugaku would remain with Itachi and Kakashi and give them assistance. The rest were to join up with and make the charge against Madara's waiting forces. One of the shinobi set as a look out for the coming units from the village would alert the others and then send a signal out to Akira's group to move in from behind Madara's forces. If all went well the battle would end the way everyone hoped. Fugaku sensed the chakra's of his boys and Madara and their teammates. He was close now. It wouldn't take long. He raised his hand high in the air. The signal the clan was waiting for. They began to pick up speed and move on ahead of Fugaku but going off to the right as they did so. They would take a small berth around the immediate battle to hook up with the main force waiting to begin their own fight against a slew of S-class criminals.
Kakashi wanted to check on his fallen teammates. But that wasn't an option at the moment. It had now gotten serious between the three combatants. Sharigan eyes were spinning rapidly. Each seeking an opening to attack the other. Once again Kakashi tried using chidori and launching himself at his target. Madara tried to catch Kakashi in a genjutsu but failed as quickly as Kakashi. They backed away from each other. Itachi used Phoenix flower fireball trying to catch Madara as he made to escape them. Leaping up into a tree branch, Madara laughed at them.
"You two are better than I had anticipated. But you will fall. That I promise you." He said while panting.
"And you will never leave here alive, Madara." Retorted Kakashi.
Madara looked over at Itachi and asked him. "You. Who are you?"
"None of your business." Growled Itachi.
"Humph. Doesn't matter. I just needed to catch my breath for a moment that was all."
"Let's stop fooling around Madara." An annoyed Kakashi replied.
"Yes. Let's continue."
The three went at it again. Fugaku, Togu, and Shisui had arrived to see the boys in the fight of their lives. Madara was holding his own against them. But he was starting to tire. The boys on the other hand, were still going strong. It will be sometime before they will succumb to fatigue. The newly arrived trio looked at each other briefly and nodded. Then Fugaku and Togu raced out of the bushes and headed towards the battle. Giving a loud battle cry, the men startled Madara as they approached. Kakashi and Itachi moved back quickly as the older men approached. Madara quickly threw more shuriken at the men. Both dodged to the right and left and threw their own shuriken. Madara teleported out of the danger. Fugaku never faltered as he charged up the very tree Madara was hiding in. Again startled at how fast and easily the Head of the clan found and attacked him. Madara escaped to the ground only to have Togu's foot hitting the side of his head. Madara was launched back into a clearing. Getting up in a rage the man used a huge fireball burning through the area the others were in.
Shisui bid his time. He needed for Madara to be facing him when he made his charge. He kept moving when he needed too. In order to dodge Madara's attacks. Kakashi and Itachi had joined once again in harassing Madara and wearing him down. Since he had never worked with Itachi's father and Togu before, Kakashi had to be careful not to set them up for a hit or be in the way himself. But he was doing well and Itachi helped him. When the time came and Fugaku managed to get Madara lined up for the shot. Shisui showed that he had been paying attention. Using his Body flicker technique, Shisui materialized in front of Madara and using a genjutsu. He paralyzed Madara and brought him to a standstill. Kakashi readied his chidori one last time and without encouragement. He raced forward and plunged his hand through Madara's chest. Punching out through the back. Destroying Madara's heart. The battle was over. Madara was dead.
Meanwhile the rest of the Uchiha had met up with the main force from the village. The signal went up and Akira came rushing forward. Madara's forces were crushed between the allied forces. Not a man was left of the treacherous group. A messenger bird was sent back to give the news of the battle. There was joyous laughter amongst the troops as they headed back to the village. Everyone was relieved that the nightmare was over. As they walked they found Anko and Yamato. They were still unconscious and injured. But the injuries weren't live threatening. And the medic Nins that were with the main force soon had them healed enough to make the journey back into the village under their own power.
The riots in the eastern district was brought to a close. Fires were put out and the guilty parties were safely placed in confinement until their trial. The Hokage was relieved that the rest of the village was secured as well. Everyone had gone home. And those who chose to fight the Anbu in charge of each district. Where rounded up and taken to a temporary facility of some sort that was made into a make shift prison. All in all it was a hard night for all the shinobi and many villagers. The nightmare was over for Konoha. The best news of the night was of Naruto and Sasuke. The boys would pull through. They would make a complete recovery. But what Kakashi and Itachi would soon learn. Sasuke and Naruto are hurting in a place that healing hands can't reach. And it would challenge the two older brothers as they have never been challenged before.
A/N Sorry, I really didn't know what Yahiko's skill sets were. So I made up what I needed for the sake of the story. Hope you liked this one. See ya next time!