Kakashi's Heart

by berry5tz

Minato and Kushina were leaving him behind. But he wasn't alone. The couple's newborn son, Naruto was now cradled in his arms. With a village that couldn't care for either of them, Kakashi takes his biggest gamble. A chance for a new life for the both of them. I own nothing.

11. Consequences

A/N: Hi, everyone! This chapter will be focusing mostly on the Daimyo's visit to the Leaf. Our boys won't have much to do with this chapter. The next chapter however, will be a different point all together.

Consequences

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon. As Kakashi and his team, the Uchiha clan and shinobi forces came to the eastern gates of the village. The gate keepers were there to greet them. Kakashi wasted no time in asking where Naruto was at the moment. The gate keepers looked at each other briefly before they looked back at Kakashi. Kakashi knew just from that exchange the news wasn't going to be what he wanted to hear.

"Answer me! Where is he?!" Anger was starting to get the better of him.

"I'm sorry Kakashi." A remorseful Izumo began to say. "But Naruto and Sasuke have been injured. The head field medic has just taken them to the hospital."

"Yeah," Cut in the other guard, Renji. "The medic needed to get them there as fast as possible. No one knows how bad it really is. But the medic did say that they will survive though."

Kakashi took off in a run. He leapt to the rooftops to avoid the trash and debris on the streets. Itachi was right at his side. Neither said anything as they swiftly leaped from building to building to get to the hospital. Fugaku wanted to run with them. But he needed to get to the command center and see Mikoto. Once he knew that she was doing well under the current circumstances. They would leave and head to the hospital as well.

Kakashi and Itachi made it to the hospital in under six minutes. Probably the fastest time Kakashi has ever ran to get to the hospital from within the village. Upon arrival the young men saw many people already there. Some were crying hysterically with wounds. Others were being carried by their friends or family. Of those people, some were conscious. Some weren't. Of those that were conscious, they held a dazed look and kept silent. Still there were yet more people rushing into the building with looks of pure terror and grief. Apparently these people had just learned of a family member or friend that had been sent here. Kakashi and Itachi went inside. Inside was even more chaotic then outside. The entrance had several people lined along its walls. A lot of these people were still waiting to be seen by a doctor. The two young men walked straight ahead towards the receptionist desk. The nurse behind the desk was busy typing something into the computer in front of her. She was wearing the typical white uniform. But it held a blue trim on the short sleeves. And at the hem of the dress. She also had her hair up in a bun with her nurse's cap on in front of it. She was concentrating on her task. But kept her ears open. When she heard someone approach the desk. Putting on her best professional smile. She started to speak to the newcomer.

"Hello, may I-" Looking upon Kakashi and Itachi, the nurse cut herself off. She recognized Kakashi right away. And remembering that the Jinchurriki lived with him. She dropped the smile that had been on her face only seconds before.

"Oh, its, you. Come to see the demon have we?" Her tone dripping with venom.

Kakashi shocked even Itachi at how fast he reached across the counter and grabbed the woman by her throat. She was lifted up and out of her chair .Kakashi's grip was extremely tight as soon as his hand had a firm grip. His eyes were showing killer intent. His voice low and cutting.

"Listen to me. Because I'm only going to say this once. Don't fuck with me now or ever."

Everyone that was standing or sitting around them gave shocked looks. Now that they all could get a good look at the two newcomers. They all realized that they both were Anbu and that they had blood nearly covering them. It also became apparent to the onlookers that these men had been in a battle. It wasn't really surprising considering, the hell nearly half of the villagers in the eastern district decided to put everyone else through. Everyone felt immediate sympathy for the Anbu, the nurse not so much. It was foolish to say something like that out loud were the potential was great for another brawl to begin right there in the hospital. The nurse was fortunate, that everyone in the immediate vicinity wasn't interested in hurting anyone. However, if the woman died in the next second. No one there was going to care.

The woman's eyes got comically large as her hands went up instinctually to grab at Kakashi's hand. She was struggling to breathe. She frantically looked around moving only her eyes, as she couldn't move her head at all. Thanks to Kakashi's strong grip. The nurse continued looking to see if anyone would save her. But most ignored her. And those that did notice just sat and watched but did nothing else. Kakashi refused to let go. His mismatched eyes were glaring at her with such intensity behind the wolf mask. That the nurse began to whimper. Itachi then reached over with a hand. Placing it gently on Kakashi's raised forearm. Itachi spoke with a soothing and calming tone.

"Easy, Kakashi. Easy."

If Kakashi heard Itachi He didn't acknowledge him.

"Where. Is. Naruto and Sasuke?" Kakashi asked menacingly.

"S-sixth floor. In room six-twenty." She replied hoarsely.

Kakashi held her in his iron grip for a second longer and then let go. He slowly turned and walked away. Itachi followed silently. The nurse fell back down into her chair shaking uncontrollably and tears started coming down showing her unhinged mental state at the moment. 'I thought he was really going to kill me!' She thought hysterically .What a freak. I think I'll go home early today. I don't want to see that animal again anytime soon.'

Kakashi and Itachi walked down the corridor heading for the stairs. The injured and those sitting with them to give comfort and support as best they could. Where lined up the length of the hallway leading towards the stairs. And as they walked, Kakashi and Itachi heard snippets of the conversations that flowed around them.

On Kakashi's left.

"It was bad, Yumiko. People were screaming and pushing and getting knocked down."

"We were getting pushed around. Also getting hit with rocks and glass."

The young Anbu walked on in silence.

"I'm scared. What will happen now?"

"I saw the Hokage out there fighting as we were running to come here."

Across from them on Itachi's right.

"I've never seen so much blood."

"What happened? I don't understand. My girlfriend and I went to the festival and now she's dead."

"It's all the demon's fault. Someone said that he was there."

"Please, don't mention him here. I don't want to see any more pain."

"I saw two little boys running and they looked scared. Someone hollered to protect them."

Itachi's fists clenched as he heard this. Kakashi trembled slightly from rage. They kept walking down the hall. Once at the door that led to the second floor. Kakashi and Itachi pushed through and headed on up the steps. They continued to walk in silence. They passed the door marking it as the second floor. They turned and continued to climb the stairs onto the third floor and passed it on up until they reached the sixth floor. Once there they opened the door and started down the corridor. On the top floor there were no patients or visitors. Only shinobi were present. The Hokage had ordered the boys to be under heavy guard while they stayed at the hospital.

Itachi looked to the right as they came to the end of the corridor. They made to the right and saw Anbu guards standing guard in front of the room they knew had to be six-twenty. The Anbu nodded at their comrades and allowed entrance by stepping away from the front of the door. Both young men stood apprehensively outside the room. All kinds of thoughts ran through their minds of what they would find. But standing outside the door wasn't going to show or tell them the truth. Itachi pushed the door open and they both walked inside. They stood side by side staring at their little brothers. They couldn't move. They couldn't breathe.

There on beds that were far too large for the little beings laying on them, laid Naruto and Sasuke. The beds were deliberately pushed together. The bars of Sasuke's bed were pushed down on Naruto's side. So that the boys hands could be locked in a hand hold. A lifeline to each other. They both were wearing nothing other than bandages. Which covered a large part of their chests and arms. Each child had a thick blanket covering them. Naruto's head wore a bandage that was wrapped tightly around his forehead. He had scratches on his face. A black eye and a busted lip. His left arm had an IV line pierced into it.

Sasuke also had his head wrapped the same as Naruto had. He also had tubes sticking out of his arm. Giving him fluids and pain killer. His left arm was in a cast. His face like Naruto's held scratches and a black eye. A large bruise had formed on his cheek. They both looked so pale and worn out.

Kakashi moved up to sit in the chair by Naruto's bed. Itachi grabbed another chair that was in the room. He moved it over to the other side of Sasuke's bed. Each reached for their brother's hand that wasn't holding onto each other. Kakashi sighed deeply. He wanted to cry. But he couldn't. Itachi wanted to cry but didn't either. Instead, he reached up with his right hand and gently swiped away a stray lock of hair and moved it away from Sasuke's face.

"Little brother, I'm so sorry that I couldn't come to you and to Naruto." He wanted to say more but nothing would come out. So he repeated what he said. "I'm so sorry."

Kakashi looked at Naruto in deep sadness. 'I couldn't protect you, little brother. Sensei, Kushina, I'm so sorry. I failed you all.'

The door was gently knocked on. Then a man in a long white coat came in. He was a man in his mid-forties. He had black hair that was turning grey at the sides. His eyes were dark brown in color. He was short about five foot four inches at best guess. And he had a scar that ran from just under the corner of his right eye down to the corner of his mouth. His name tag identified him as Dr. Inoue. Dr. Inoue looked at both young Anbu with a small sympathetic smile.

"Hello, I'm Dr. Inoue as you can read from my tag. And you are?"

"I'm Itachi Uchiha, Sasuke's older brother."

When Kakashi said nothing. Dr. Inoue decided to inquire. "And you sir?"

"Kakashi Hatake, Naruto's older brother." Answered Kakashi in a monotone.

"I see. I'm sorry that we are meeting under such circumstances. I will give you the rundown of your siblings' conditions as soon as Mr. and Mrs. Uchiha arrive. They should be here in just a few minutes."

"I understand. Thank you, Doctor." Replied an unenthusiastic Itachi.

The doctor only nodded and went and looked out the window. The young men continued to sit holding their brothers hands while lost in thought. Their wait turned out shorter then what the doctor had been told. A light knock on the door and a second later Mikoto was the first to be seen followed swiftly by her husband, Fugaku. They both stopped cold as they viewed their youngest and his friend lying there with hands clasped. Dr. Inoue turned and reached out a hand towards the parents as he began his greeting.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Uchiha, I'm Dr. Inoue."

Fugaku went forward and shook the man's hand. Mikoto was still caught up in staring at her boys at the moment. But at the sound of her husband's voice. Mikoto snapped out of it.

"Thank you for meeting with all of us, doctor. I do understand that you're quite busy right now."

"That's quite alright. I'm happy to meet with you. I'm sure you are ready to hear about the boys. So let me begin by saying that I believe that they will make a full recovery."

Everyone let out a sigh of relief. And the tension died down a bit.

"Both of the boys have several puncture wounds all over the front of their bodies." The doctor began to explain. Everyone was quiet and listened intently.

"Most of these were placed away from vital organs. However, the damage was rather extensive everywhere. The boys were ripped open with the glass. They both lost a lot of blood. We were able to give them blood. The Kyubbi's chakra was seen repairing damaged tissue in both boys. They both had one puncture wound that would have caused a fatality in each of them." Dr. Inoue paused for a moment to take in everyone's expressions. But everyone had hid their expressions and thoughts with a stoic look. So he continued.

"In Naruto's case, he suffered a puncture that was very near his heart. The broken glass nicked an artery. He was bleeding profusely from it. However, the Kyubbi was already healing this injury even as we opened up Naruto's chest to try and repair it. There was a piece of glass embedded in his heart as well. It wasn't very deep and again it was the Kyubbi that kept his heart beating. We removed the glass and using healing chakra managed to heal the wound on his heart."

At this Kakashi squeezed Naruto's hand a little tighter. While Mikoto had tears start down her face. Fugaku showed no emotion and neither did Itachi. The doctor continued.

"Naruto has a concussion. His intestines were damaged as well as having three broken ribs. The rest is deep bruising and smaller cuts everywhere."

"In Sasuke's case, He had a very deep puncture wound in his right leg near the main artery. He has also gained a concussion. A broken arm and deep several lacerations. But like Naruto, a puncture would near his heart was would have killed him. In fact, we would have lost him if it wasn't for Naruto."

At this bit of news everyone was taken back. They looked at the boys as Kakashi asked what was currently on everyone's mind.

"What do you mean, doctor? How did Naruto help?"

Dr. Inoue looked over at both boys with a small smile before he began.

"You see. Moving the boys became essential. They were losing too much blood. So we needed to get them to the hospital as quickly as possible. But no matter what we tried. We could not separate the two boys long enough to get there. So we placed them on stretchers and kept them close to each other. It wasn't until we had arrived and had both boys in join surgery. Before we realized why they were holding each other's hands. The chakra from Kyubbi was making its way through Naruto and into Sasuke. The Kyubbi was healing both boys at the same time. It's amazing considering that they were both unconscious when they were first brought there." The doctor shook his head in amazement.

And again as we opened Sasuke's chest as we had with Naruto. We saw the chakra healing the damage that was done to his heart. Sasuke's heart was about to give out and had it not been for the Kyubbi's quick action. Sasuke would have died on the operating table."

Everyone looked at the boys in quiet awe. Each person absorbing the information they were just given. The silence remained for several seconds before Mikoto spoke with a soft voice.

"So it was the Kyubbi that saved the boys?"

"I wish I could say that I and my team did. But yes, it was the Kyubbi. And why I don't know. I guess we will have to wait for the boys to wake up. Then we can ask Naruto. Perhaps he can shed some light on this occurrence. Until then we will have to wait."

"When can we expect them to awaken?" Spoke Fugaku.

"I'm not sure." Answered the doctor. But he quickly continued. "It seems that the Kyubbi has the boys in an induced coma. My guess is that in this way, the boy's bodies can rest. while Kyubbi continues to heal deeper wounds within the bodies of the boys. Even with our help, the boy's hearts need as much rest as possible. With the children being awake and moving even a little would be very taxing to their hearts right now. This is why I believe the Kyubbi has them in a coma. When the boys wake up. Will be when the old fox believes it's safe for them."

"Their hands still can't be separated? Is this why the beds are set-up this way?" Inquired Itachi.

"Yes. As I've said earlier. Kyubbi is using the boy's hands as a way to link them. So that he can channel his chakra into Sasuke as well as Naruto. And again, I don't know why the fox is helping Sasuke."

"Well I must be seeing other patients now. If you have any other questions please feel free to ask my staff or myself. I bid you all good day."

Everyone thanked the doctor as he left the room. When the door was closed quietly, Mikoto walked around to Sasuke's side of the bed where Itachi was and leaned over and kissed Sasuke's forehead.

"My brave little boy. Thank you for hanging on for so long. You're safe now."

Then Mikoto went over towards Naruto's side of the bed where Kakashi was sitting. And Kakashi moved slightly out of her way to give her access. Mikoto again leaned down and kissed Naruto's forehead as well.

"Thank you for saving my little boy's life Naruto. It may have been Kyubbi. But in my heart I know that you were the reason it happened at all. Don't worry, Sasuke is safe and so are you." She leaned back and caressed his face for a moment then backed away.

Fugaku reached for his wife's hand and pulled her gently over to the two remaining chairs in the room. They would all stay for as long as they could. No words were spoken. The only sound came from the heart monitors that kept a vigilant watch on both boys' hearts.

Guy was sitting in integration room number five. He wasn't in chakra restraints. He didn't understand why he wasn't. The two shinobi that brought him here didn't treat him roughly or abuse him in any way. He couldn't understand that either. In fact, everyone was acting rather sympathetic towards him. And this just baffled him. 'Why?' He thought. It just didn't make sense to him. But before Guy could dwell on it anymore, the door was opening and in walked Ibiki. 'I guess this is why?' He thought.

Ibiki had only been in the Interrogation and torture unit for a short time now. But he was already gaining quite the reputation within the shinobi ranks and not just within his own village either. He was capable of cracking the most harden shinobi out there. And he has done so mostly with just using a person's own mind against him. But when he has had to resort to being physical, Ibiki, could truly frighten his fellow T&I members with what he would do. So now it would seem, that everyone else was just pitying Guy. They must have felt bad that one of their own would have to endure whatever it was that Ibiki would do to him. Though Guy had no inclination to try and resist Ibiki at all. Guy felt that he deserved punishment. And he wasn't going to try and lie or connive his way out of it.

Ibiki stood for several long moments just staring at Guy. Ibiki looked intimidating with a cool penetrating stare. He was a large man with a physique that said power. An expression that demanded respect and an aura about him that said Ibiki meant business. But as he watched Guy, Ibiki's expression and eyes softened.

'There's no way that Guy betrayed the village. Or more importantly, Kakashi and Naruto. Guy's posture says that he will take whatever punishment that is given to him without complaint or resistance. The melancholy expression and depressed posture says as much. I already know like everyone else that Guy is innocent of any wrong doing. But I must follow procedure. I'll ask the questions I have to ask. But from having befriended the man and seeing him with Kakashi and Naruto. I have to say that Guy is as much a victim as Naruto and Sasuke.'

Ibiki went and sat down across from Guy at the table. Guy had been looking at Ibiki when he first entered the room. But now his head was down and he didn't look up. His hands were on the table clasped together.

"Guy, I have a few questions for you. But before I begin, I want you to know that you are not being seen as a traitor here."

Guy looked up in shock. "What do you mean? I was the one that let this whole thing happen." Replied Guy dismally.

"Let's not rush to conclusions here, Guy. There's a picture I want to show you." Ibiki reached inside the long black coat he wore and pulled out a picture. He placed the picture down on the table in front of Guy.

"Have you seen this old man? And if so, Where?"

Guy looked at the picture his eyes going wide. "Yes, I have. It was when Lee and I were heading for the ice cream shop."

"Did he tell you his name?"

"No."

"What happened?"

"The old man greeted us both. Then he asked if we were going to the festival. I said no. That we were going to visit friends instead. He asked us why and I said that they didn't do well in crowds and didn't like loud noises." A pensive Guy spoke.

"Did he ask you who your friends were?"

"No."

"I see. Then what happened?"

Guy tried to remember but became alarmed when he couldn't.

"I-I don't remember."

"Don't panic. Think calmly and slowly go over the day in your mind."

Guy did as he was told. He thought of what he did that day. Beginning with when he woke up that morning. He paced slowly through it. He did so all the way to the meeting with the old man. But try as he might, Guy couldn't remember what happened just before he saw the old man walking away from him. He didn't even remember if the old man had said good-bye to him or not. Guy began to sweat profusely as a single thought coursed through his mind.

"I honestly can't remember. We were talking. But then the last memory I have of the man is him walking away from me. I never even heard him say good-bye before he left. I just blinked for a second and he was walking away…Ibiki, there is one thought that is running through my mind right now. Could it be… Sharigan?"

Ibiki looked into Guy's eyes with a pensive expression. It took the man nearly a minute before he answered Guy. But when he did. It was with conviction.

"Yes, I believe that Madara has targeted you. But I'll need to get Inoichi in here to confirm what we believe."

"But how? How did he know that I was friends with Kakashi? There were several people out in the streets that day. He could have chosen anyone else. I wasn't the only shinobi out."

"I don't know Guy. But let me get the elder of the Yamanaka clan in here and let him confirm at least what we now believe to be the truth."

"Yes, of course."

Ibiki grunted an agreement and got up and left. Guy's mind reeled with this new revelation. He couldn't believe that the old man was really Madara. 'I didn't. I couldn't see anything out of the ordinary with the old man. I feel like a new genin fresh out of the academy. Instead of a seasoned Jounin. I'll never forgive myself for this.' Guy's thoughts were mercifully interrupted before they could take him down a dark path. When Ibiki returned with Inoichi right behind him.

"Hello, Guy. I hear from Ibiki that you are having some trouble remembering some things." Inoichi asked gently.

"Yes, sir. And I think I know who it was that did this to me."

"Ah, well let me take a look in your mind and see if I can confirm your thoughts on the subject."

"Yes, sir. And thank you sir for helping me. I want to know what happened that day."

Guy slid his chair out away from the table some to allow Inoichi to get closer to him. Guy then turned his body to the side of the chair so that his legs were now off to the right of the chair instead of facing forward. Inoichi stepped up to Guy and gently pressed the palm of his right hand to Guy's forehead. His fingers curving over to touch the top of Guy's head. With his other hand, Inoichi made a single hand sign while closing his eyes. He concentrated deeply and then he was suddenly inside Guy's mind.

Inoichi began walking slowly through Guy's mind looking for the memories of that day. The memories were displayed like clear bubbles that were half the size of Inoichi himself. They floated mostly in clusters here and there. And Inoichi was careful not to disturb them as he walked. Finally he saw what he was looking for. He walked up to the bubble and touched it. Immediately, Inoichi saw everything that Guy had told word for word to Ibiki. But then there was another bubble that floated just behind the one in front of Inoichi. The bubble wasn't clear like the rest of them showing an image. Instead this one was dark. Inoichi stepped away from the one in front of him and made his way over to it. He looked at it for a moment. Then without hesitation he touched the bubble.

The moment he did the bubble resisted. It wasn't going to allow Inoichi access easily. This alone confirmed what they all had thought. This was indeed Madara's handy work. Inoichi applied more pressure to reach inside the bubble with his own mind. Using his special chakra abilities, Inoichi was able to get inside the bubble without doing Guy any harm. As soon as he entered, Inoichi saw the blood red eyes with spinning tome in front of him. Sharigan. Inoichi pushed a little harder to break into what the Sharigan was demanding Guy to do. He could do this because the orders had already been carried out. There was now no danger to Inoichi now.

Pressing forward Inoichi found the answer. 'Ah, so that's it. Good. This proves Guy's innocence without a doubt. He thought. Inoichi placed a permanent block on this particular memory so that when it was once again October tenth the next year. Guy wouldn't have a repeat of the command ordering him to once again abduct Naruto and take him to the Kitsune festival. Inoichi even went so far as to triple block it.

Once outside of Guy's mind. Inoichi didn't waste no time in speaking to the two other males.

"You're both right. It was indeed Madara that met Guy that day." A grave Inoichi answered.

"But how, Inoichi? How did he know that it was me that was going to see Kakashi?" An exasperated Guy replied.

"Because Madara didn't trust the Akatsuki trio." The sensory type looked at the two with a still grave look. He turned slightly so that he could easily see both of the men as he continued to speak.

"It turns out that at some point, Madara no longer trusted the three and sent another to check on them. While in the village, the spy saw Kakashi with his friends heading to a park. Apparently the spy kept everyone's features and other details in mind when he reported back to Madara."

Guy was now slightly trembling with anger as well as Ibiki. Guy, because the fact that an outsider was able to see him with his friends going to the park. It was the first time that Kakashi had trusted them all enough to go with them to the park with Naruto. The highly desired friendship with Kakashi that Guy had sought was ruined on that day and he didn't even know it.

Ibiki was pissed because once again, someone just strolled through the gates of the village to do God knows what. 'We might just as well tear down the damn gates and put up a sign saying, Welcome to Konoha. The village that enjoys spying and other outlaw activities! Before helost control of his anger and started wrecking the place, Ibiki spoke up though a bit roughly.

"So what did the bastard command Guy exactly?"

Inoichi, sighed deeply. "Well, it demanded that Guy would bring Naruto to the Kitsune festival at eight-thirty that evening. He was to drop Naruto off ten blocks from Madara's position."

"Then that would explain why I didn't remember why I was standing in the middle of the eastern district. When the last thing I remember was getting up to take out the video cassette of a children's movie." Guy felt sick as he spoke.

He was used. The plain and simple truth of it all. He was used to hurt not only his friends. But to harm countless villagers at the same time. All for some sick man's dream of power. Guy wanted to cry at that moment. He knew that Kakashi would never trust him again. He probably wouldn't even speak to Guy again. Worse still, as protective as Kakashi was over Naruto. The possibility did exist that Kakashi would come looking for him. If that is to be the case, Guy would let Kakashi beat him into tomorrow or even go so far as kill Guy. Because for Guy,he always could understand that it wasn't easy for Kakashi to open up to anyone. He had lost everything at one point. Kakashi had to witness the deaths of those he loved. And Guy knew that Naruto was precious to Kakashi. Guy felt like he needed to apologize to the man. But he just didn't know how he would ever be able to face Kakashi on his own to say it.

The other two men were painfully aware of what Guy was thinking at this point. They both felt bad for Guy. And it was Ibiki who spoke up.

"Guy, I know that you're worried about what Kakashi would think of you. Or that he would hate you forever or worse. But trust me. I've known the man as long as you. And even though Kakashi is feeling betrayed right now. He knows it wasn't you. Give him time. He will come around and it won't be with anger or the intent to kill either."

Guy let out a sigh. "You're probably right, Ibiki. It's just that Kakashi had lost so much. It made him close himself off from everyone that wanted to be friends with him. I should know. I've tried the hardest to become his friend. And when I finally got the chance. It's blown out of the water. And by a man that should have been dealt with a long time ago." The last part was said in frustration and anger.

"I understand how you feel, Guy. But have faith in Kakashi. He may be frustrated and hurt right now. But like Ibiki said. He won't blame and hate you for something that wasn't your fault. And believe me, Guy, this wasn't your fault. Everyone recognizes that you aren't a traitor not to the village nor to your friends." Inoichi said adamantly.

"Come on. Let's go get some coffee. You look like you could use some." Guy looked up at Inoichi with a small smile. "That sounds like a grand idea, Inoichi."

Guy got up and all three men left the interrogation room. They walked down the hall and as Inoichi and Guy headed to the right and for the exit straight ahead. Ibiki made a left and headed down to his office. There was a report that was waiting to be written on what was just learned. He needed to get it written and sent to the Hokage as soon as possible.

Kakashi and Itachi were the only ones left still keeping vigilance at the two boys' bedsides. Fugaku and Mikoto had left an hour ago. Mikoto hadn't slept at all since the night previous and she was tired. But she needed to freshen up and head back to the council chambers. They needed to prepare for the Daimyo's visit among other things. Fugaku needed to check on his clan. He hadn't done so after the battle and it was his duty to make sure they were all okay. There was also the police station that needed his attention as well. Both of the older Uchiha realized it would be a while before they could come back to see the boys.

Kakashi brushed a stray lock of hair out of his little brother's face. He couldn't take his eyes off of Naruto. He looked so fragile and pale at the moment. Kakashi remembered being woke up that morning by Naruto. The boy was smiling as he reached over and patted Kakashi in the face.

"Kashi, Kashi wake up. Kashi please wake up. Cause I can't stay here anymore. I gotta pee. Kashi, you hear me, Kashi?"

Then another memory assaulted Kakashi. It was of his little brother standing in the entrance way of the kitchen. Naruto was looking up at Kakashi with puppy dog eyes as he asked his big brother a question that they both knew that Kakashi would grant the wish too.

"Kashi, do you think I could help make the pancakes today? I promise not to make a mess."

Then yet another memory came. Naruto had just finished getting dressed for his day. He ran and stood in front of Kakashi with a shy smile as he swayed from one foot to the other. Kakashi could tell that Naruto wanted to ask him something. Something that Naruto felt was a little private.

"What is it, kiddo?" Inquired Kakashi.

"Kashi, why don't we ever celebrate your birthday? I want to make you a big birthday cake and invite all your friends over."

Kakashi pulled Naruto onto his lap as he began to explain. "Well, Naruto, I don't like to celebrate my birthday. There was never any reason too."

Naruto looked up with a small frown showing. "But Kashi, you should be happy that you were born. Because if you were not born. I would never have met you ever."

At this last memory Kakashi couldn't help the silent tears that streamed down his face. Even though he knew that his little brother was going to be okay. That the coma he and Sasuke were in wasn't going to last forever. Still, Kakashi couldn't help the tears. 'It's true, Naruto.' He reasoned within himself. 'I would have never met you. And believe me, I couldn't have been sorrier if I had missed meeting you.'

Kakashi looked up as he felt a hand pressed gently against his shoulder. Itachi was looking at him with a sympathetic look. "Hey, it's time for us to go. We need to get out of these blood stained clothes and get a bath. We can come back after we are done. If by some chance the two wake up early. I don't want their first sight of us to be with the look and smell of blood on us."

Kakashi didn't say anything. Only nodding his head and standing. He pulled the wolf mask back over his face as Itachi did the same with his mask. They looked at their brothers one last time before they turned and left the room. They silently vowed that they would be back as quick as possible.

Saratobi was walking back to his office after having taken a break. He could have taken his break in his office. But he needed to get out of there for a while. The Daimyo was on his way to Konoha. And Saratobi wasn't fooling himself. This visit was going to be difficult. It wasn't going to be for himself. But for the village itself. He didn't know what the Daimyo would have in store for them all. But he knew that the man was most assuredly upset with the news that he had received. The Hidden Leaf village was considered to be the Daimyo's favorite village to visit. He had always said that it was the jewel in the crown of the nation. But now it would seem that the hidden Leaf isn't worthy of such praise. And the notoriety of what has happened will have spread like wild fire by now.

Yahiko and his friends were waiting for the Hokage when he returned from his walk. They had decided to stay over and help with the villagers and anything else that needed to be done. The Hokage smiled at them as he approached.

"Good afternoon, Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato. I trust that you are all doing well?"

"Yes, sir we are well." The three replied.

"Good. Please come with me to my office. There is something I wish to discuss with all of you."

"But of course, sir." Replied Yahiko, amicably.

The four made their way up to the Hokage's office. Several people waved to them all as they made their way to the fourth floor. Upon arriving they made their way inside. The Hokage went behind his desk and the trio went to the comfortable chairs in the room in front of the desk.

"I'm not very good at beating around the bush. So I'll just get straight to the point." The Third was already busy preparing his pipe as he spoke to the trio. Yahiko couldn't help but smirk at the action. As he remembered an earlier time when Konan had asked the Hokage what he thought was funny. What the Third said revolved around the pipe. Ever since then, Yahiko, couldn't help but be reminded of that incident. That now seems so long ago after the events of the Kitsune festival.

"I believe that I told you that I had sent a messenger hawk the other day?" The Hokage said as he continued to pack tobacco into his pipe.

"Yes, we remember, sir." Answered Yahiko. While the other two nodded.

"Well that message has been received and a return message has just come in this morning."

Everyone perked up at this news.

"It seems the Daimyo himself is coming here to Konoha. And I won't lie to you about this it won't be pretty."

"I understand that he would not be happy. But I get the impression that you are implying more than what I'm grasping sir." Replied a concerned Nagato.

The Hokage wasted no time replying."The Daimyo considered a request made by this village to have the Kitsune festival in honor of the Fourth Hokage's sacrifice for this village. And the Daimyo thought that it was an acceptable request at the time. At one time the Daimyo thought of the Leaf village as the crown jewel of the Land of Fire. Now after the events that took place here. You can best believe that he will not be happy to hear and see the things we are now going to have to show him."

"Ah, I see. He expected better from his number one village. And because of Madara, the village has now been cast in a much darker light." Reasoned Yahiko.

"Yes. That pretty much sums it up. But anyway, that's not why I asked you three to come up here with me." The Third paused for a moment to finally light his pipe. After he inhaled a bit of the tobacco taste. He exhaled it away from the others and then continued.

"I wanted to ask if you would stay until after the Daimyo leaves. I would like to introduce you to the man. He won't be happy with the village. But that has nothing to do with the three of you. He is most civil I assure you."

Konan looked curiously at the Hokage as she asked. "But why, sir?

"Because your organization can use this opportunity to make a connection. If the Daimyo is behind you guys. It will go a long way in helping you achieve world peace and equality for all the world's people. Shinobi and civilians alike. Hidden villages and small villages treated the same. The Daimyo is a man who also like you embraces peace and equality. And he's been trying to get the other leaders of the other four nations to see his point of view on these things. I think the four of you can do much good for everyone. "

"I am grateful, sir. Truly I am. Here we came to try and help you. But ended up not being much help at all within the village. Yet despite that you are still thinking of us." Yahiko smiled sadly as he spoke.

"Nonsense. You three have been a great help within the village and without. Trust me. You did me and several others a great service but especially when you rescued the two boys on the night of the festival. If you hadn't done what you did that night. I would be two valuable ninja down. As their older siblings are part of my elite shinobi. Besides that, you saved me having to deal with a possible coup de ta from one of our oldest and esteemed clans. For they would not have taken kindly to losing their youngest member."

"Well since you put it that way, sir. We will stay and meet the Daimyo. We welcome anyone that embraces peace and equality no matter where they are from or who they are." Answered Yahiko.

The Daimyo was lost in thought as he stared out the window of his horse drawn carriage. The driver had told him that it would be another four days before they reached the Hidden Leaf village. They had already been traveling for four days already. He would be glad once they got there and he was able to meet with the Hokage and his council. He wished it would have been under better circumstances. Never had he thought that something like this would happen in the Leaf village. He scoffed at himself. 'What am I thinking? Of course, the village is capable of something like this. They have a Jinchurriki living among them. People have always hated Jinchurriki in whatever village the poor creatures reside in. This is something that can't be ignored anymore. I will have to set this village straight. And it pains me to have to do this to them. But there is nothing I can do about it. The die has been cast by their own hands.'

The Daimyo continued to stare unseeing out at the scenery passing before him. His mind still thousands of miles away in thought.

The next four days within the Leaf passed with much tension. It was as though everyone knew something terribly eventful was going to take place soon. The Eastern district remained under lockdown. Only those who lived in the district could move about within it. No one outside of the district was permitted in for any reason. Most of the eastern villagers cleaned up the mess they made of their part of the village. Only the essential stores were open for business. Everything else was still closed. Outside the Eastern district, the Kitsune festival was talked about by everyone in all districts except for the eastern district. Within the eastern district, people where keeping quiet.

The other districts spoke out loud about what had happened in the eastern district with much passion. Many people were appalled by what they had come to learn. Some people thought that the demon child got what he deserved and would have gotten better had the Hokage stayed out of it. There were much debating and arguing going on. And even a few fights broke out in the streets. Though these were small and didn't compare to the damage that happened at the Kitsune festival. Still, the police were in no mood to put up with an after lunch brawl in any district for any reason. They slapped the cuffs on everyone who sought out this type of recreation. And some people even got slapped on top of that for their rude comments to the police. The police didn't mind their threats about police brutality either. As long as they didn't get carried away with it, the police wouldn't be hearing about any of it.

The police weren't the only ones that were out and about within the village. Teams of Anbu were on patrol as well. They were everywhere the police weren't. And they had even less patience with the village idiots that wanted to start something. For the Anbu, this wasn't what they wanted to do with their time. They would rather be out of the village bringing rogue Nin to justice. But instead they were being annoyed with rogue villagers who didn't know that they were making asses of themselves. It truly was annoying for the Anbu. And annoying the very people who can kill you a thousand different ways isn't wise at any time.

Still, there continued to be talk about what had happened. Everyone was speculating this or that but no one really knew what would happen next. The only thing that was certain was that something was going to happen and soon. The Hokage hadn't addressed the people yet. That in and of itself was ominous. Something had been planned by their Hokage. The villagers were always a little afraid of the man. In fact, they held a fear of all shinobi. The village was called 'hidden' for a reason. It's because it is a ninja village. A military force of the Land of Fire.

The civilians were there to do the jobs that the shinobi couldn't do. There was no way a shinobi could tend to crops or run a grocery store or even bake the bake goods in a bakery. Only after a shinobi has retired do they consider doing such things. But until then there was no time for that if they wanted to protect the Land of Fire. No. They needed to devote their time to perfecting their skills as shinobi. And for carrying out the many missions that needed to be done. So bringing civilians into the village was necessary. But that didn't mean that the civilians' always felt safe within the village. Even if they had been living there their whole lives and for quite a few generations. The villagers lived in somewhat in fear of the shinobi. Shinobi skills were nothing to take lightly. A person could be fried by fire or electricity. A kunai thrown with expert skill and speed could embed itself in a person's skull. And the speed at which an attack would come would be so fast. A person would leave this world without ever knowing how it happened.

Thus the villagers had a fear of their protectors. Another reason was the fact that they were never told anything unless it was necessary. They could never vote in a Hokage in office. It wasn't like in the modern villages were there were no shinobi at all. Since it was a shinobi village. It was basically run by shinobi or former shinobi. Whatever was decided was the way it would be. But the shinobi haven't been without a heart though either. Civilians can send their children to the academy to learn shinobi ways and possibly become a shinobi. For any civilian family, to have a member of the family become a ninja is a fine achievement. And the said ninja is much praised by family and friends alike. But not all can make the grade. While others never have the ambition to become a ninja in the first place. They instead make the weapons or clothing that the ninja wear and use. They man the shops that are needed by everyone shinobi or civilian alike. Or they tend to the fields growing the crops that are vital to everyone's existence.

But when it came to the Jinchurriki, some of the civilians seemed to lose all common sense let alone fear of anything at that point. To the villagers, the Jinchurriki wasn't necessary at all. It was a powerful and dangerous entity that couldn't and shouldn't be allowed within the very village that they resided in. They couldn't understand why the monster had to be there and even though they feared the beast and tried their best to ignore its existence.

When the festival came around the villager's anger would become stronger than their fear of the said monster. The memory of the pain and loss of loved ones would give them a courage they didn't have any other time of the year. Which was another reason that many felt that there would be consequences for what happened over a week ago. After all, they lived in a shinobi village. The Hokage had decided to defend the Jinchurriki. A monster to some. A child to others. And however the villagers as a whole felt about the child. It was the Hokage's decision that stands. Therefore, no one could deny that the Hokage's silence since the disaster isn't a good sign for them. All they could do now was wait and see what has been decided.

The Hokage sent out an escort to guide the Daimyo and his entourage into the village. In one hour the Daimyo would be in the gates of the Hidden Leaf. Saratobi set his ceremonial robe and hat aside for the time being on a wooden rack near the door. He sighed deeply. He didn't want this to happen. He had never wanted something like this to happen. But it was out of his hands now. Saratobi may be the village leader. But he wasn't the leader of an entire nation. The Daimyo had spoken. There would be a trial. The village that Saratobi loved, Konoha, was being placed on trial. This was not going to end well for so many people. But there was nothing that Saratobi could do about it now. It was far, far too late.

Guy was busy training his body. He was currently at clearing by the river deep in the woods. He was trying to cleanse his body and mind of the poison that had been inflicted upon him over a week ago. The memory of the old man who was really Madara in disguise sickened him. 'If only I had known that it was him. Everything would be different now. Inoichi had told me that it wasn't my fault. A part of me does agree with him. A very small part of me does anyway. Still, I can't help the feeling that I betrayed the man I see as my rival and even a friend. How can I bring back the passion of youth to our friendship, if I feel like it has left me?'

Guy angled his body so that he was balancing on his left leg. He began a series of swift and powerful kicks. First with his right then with the left leg. His mind was focused on the flow and movement of his body as it performed the kicks perfectly. But at the same time his thoughts were doing their own kicks. Mostly his mind was continuing to kick Guy himself. But the Blue Beast of Konoha, persevered through this hurdle. He had too. There were so many people that still believed in him despite what happened. He couldn't let them down by giving in to depression or self-hatred. But it was hard so hard. And what made it worse was the fact that it was Kakashi that he had hurt most of all. Guy knew he had. But Guy also knew that the time for talking to his friend wasn't now. For neither of them were ready to face each other. They both needed time. But there was one thing that Guy was glad for and that was for his friends. They continue to stand by him. 'Come to think of it.' He thought. 'I should round them up and head to our favorite dango shop. It will be my treat to celebrate the passion of youth with the people that I cherish the most!'

The thought cheered Guy up. And he decided that he would do just that. So he left to go gather all of his friends together. If he proved unsuccessful in gathering them all. He promised himself that he would do one hundred laps around the village on his hands instead of his feet.

The Daimyo could see the large green gates of the Leaf village just ahead. So they were finally here. The Daimyo got himself ready mentally for the task at hand. There could be no more brooding over what he came to do. Now it was time to do what needed done for everyone's sakes. The small caravan made its way to the gates. The gate keepers immediately began to open the gates as they saw their comrades leading the small group towards them. The coach rumbled on through the gates and came to a stop at the check-in station. The Daimyo slid over from the right window to the left and looked out. He called out to the check-in guards. Upon hearing and seeing who has come to Konoha. Izumo, spoke.

"Welcome to Konoha, sir. The Hokage is waiting to see you at the Hokage tower."

"Thank you, young warrior. But I wish it was over more pleasant circumstances that I had come today."

"Yeah, sir. I have to agree."

"Well, I am on my way to the tower. Unless, there is something else that you wish to tell me?"

"No, sir. "

The Daimyo pulled his head back into the window. The carriage began to pull away and head to the stables. Once there the escort that brought the Daimyo to the gates. Would now continue to escort the Daimyo to the tower. They stayed close to the Leader of Fire Nation without crowding him. When the villagers saw the man. They were shocked and worried. This was really bad if the feudal lord was in Konoha. They all watched as the small entourage continued towards the tower. The Daimyo was appalled by what he was seeing. They were walking through the Eastern district. As they had arrived at the eastern gates. This was deliberate. For the Daimyo wanted to see how much damage was done to the district.

Even though the villagers were busy cleaning up the damaged area. It didn't take a genius to see that there had been one hell of a war that went on here. Several stores had their windows busted out. And villagers were busy boarding up the windows for the time being until enough glass was procured for creating new replacement windows for the shops. The Daimyo could still see blood splattered everywhere. Though he knew that a lot of it had been cleaned off already. He could tell that there had been fires here as well in the district. Some buildings were damaged so badly by fire that they would have to be torn down. The only shops the Daimyo could see open. Where only the essential stores like a grocery store. The Daimyo shook his head in sadness and anger. In sadness, because the Kitsune festival was meant to celebrate the Fourth Hokage's memory of his brave actions that night. In anger because it was the foolish actions of a few that spread into a farce that should have never been.

The entourage finally left the Eastern district. They had turned towards the Northern district where the Hokage tower stood. In twenty minutes they would reach the tower. The contrast between where the Daimyo had just been and where he was now was brutal to the senses. Everywhere he looked. He saw pleasant faces instead of the despaired looks he saw earlier. The streets were clean and busy with the traffic of so many villagers out and doing what they needed to be doing. Several shouts of greetings were sent his way. Yet he could also see some people in discussions that soon got heated. The police quick to break up the arguing parties. The Daimyo could only get snippets of the conversation. But it would appear that the festival was still on the minds of many people.

Finally they had arrived at the Hokage tower. An attendant of the Hokage was waiting for them as they approached the building.

"Welcome, sir. We are honored to have you here. I hope your stay will not be too grievous."

The attendant, a young woman couldn't help but grimace as she spoke. Everyone at the tower knew why the Leader of Fire nation was here. The Daimyo shared the expression as well.

"I can only hope this can be done with as much decorum as dignity will allow under the circumstances."

"I understand sir. Please follow me, right this way. The Hokage is waiting."

The group broke up as the Anbu escort returned to Anbu headquarters to file reports. And Daimyo and his attendants followed the young woman to the fourth floor of the tower. When they had arrived the young woman knocked on the door. At the command to come in, the young woman opened the door and held it for the Daimyo and his attendants-three in all- into the room.

The Third stood immediately upon the door opening. He was already in his ceremonial robe and hat. The attendants went and stood off to the left of the door. While the young woman who brought them asked whether or not anyone would want refreshments. Everyone wanted something cool to drink and the young woman was quick to leave to go retrieve what the guests wanted. The Hokage bowed before the Daimyo and then straighten himself and asked his guests to take their seats. Once they were the Hokage went and sat behind his desk. He thought about his pipe. If there was ever a time he needed a smoke. But declined himself the privilege. The Daimyo wasn't a smoker and didn't care to have it around him. 'We're in enough trouble already around here as it is, no sense making it worse.' Saratobi grimaced and then sighed at the thought.

"So, aside from what has most likely made your life difficult. How have you been, Hokage?" Inquired the Daimyo with curiosity.

"Ah, I'm fine, sir. Thanks for asking." An amicable Third replied.

There was a knock on the door. The Third answered the knock with a verbal command to enter. The young woman had returned with a tray. The tray contained a large pitcher of iced tea. A bowl of sliced lemons, five large spoons for stirring and another bowl with sugar and sugar substitute packets. Once everyone had a glass of the refreshment in hand and the young woman had left. The Daimyo wasted no time getting straight to the point of business.

"Hokage, you know why I have come." Saratobi looked at the man and only nodded.

"This situation can't be given a slap on the wrist. The whole shinobi world is watching us right now. And this is no dramatics on my part either. Everyone is watching me and the Kage of other hidden villages are watching you, Hokage. We need to make it clear that this sort of think will not be tolerated. They need to understand that this kind of behavior against a Jinchurriki will not be accepted no matter how they feel about him or her."

"Yes, I understand. I have already received letters from the other Kage. Telling me that they will support whatever decision that is made here. They have also said that they are curious to see how we handle the situation. A couple of the Kage have been having some problems with some of their villagers as well concerning the Jinchurriki of their villages."

"Hm. I'm not surprised by this really. People have either ignorance or their stubborn instance of revenge keeping them from ever grasping the truth and moving forward." The Daimyo was sitting directly in front of the Hokage. His iced tea was clasped between both of his hands in his lap. But he was looking out the window as he spoke. A far away expression resided on his face.

Saratobi watched the man closely. He knew that this wasn't easy for the Leader of the Fire Nation. The man loved Konoha. Saratobi decided that they needed to get on with what needed to be done. So he spoke carefully and calmly.

"Sir, I have the council gathered at the chamber halls. When they have everything ready for you. We should head over their right away."

This brought the Daimyo out of his thoughts as he turned his attention back to the Hokage. His curiosity was peaked once more.

"What do you mean by, when everything is ready for me?"

"The night of the…incident. I had ordered my men to video tape some of what was happening within the Eastern district as evidence. A long with various reports from the police department as well as the Anbu."

"I see. I look forward to seeing the video evidence as well as hearing from some of the Anbu and police. I want to make a fair and competent verdict. Because as I've told you earlier. This village is now on trial."

Saratobi mentally winced at the words. But kept it internally. It wouldn't do to say anything about it. What was done was done.

"Also, Hokage, I want to know how many people were injured and how many died in the riots that took place that night as well as all parties responsible for them. I want a list of those sitting in the make-shift prisons in all districts. As I understand that not all villagers obeyed the order to return to their homes. When the festival was declared over."

"Yes, sir, you will find that everything is in order when you reside over the chamber halls."

"Excellent. Oh, there is something I have been meaning to ask you."

"Yes?"

The Daimyo looked Saratobi dead in the eye with all seriousness.

"How is the children? I heard that there were two children involved in the incident that night."

Saratobi placed his glass down on the coaster on his desk. And crossed his arms over each other. He thought about the visit he had with the children the next morning after the riots. They were both asleep. The doctor had said that they were both in induced comas by the Kyubbi. The doctor didn't know why. But he believed it was because their hearts needed time to heal without the boys trying to move around. They both looked so tired and pale with wires sticking out of them. He sighed.

"They are in induced comas sir. Some of the villagers managed to eventually capture them. And two of them had used broken glass like a kunai. And embedded the glass into the boy's chests. The glass made contact with their hearts. If it wasn't for the Nine-tails, the two boys wouldn't even be here with us now." A solemn Hokage answered.

"I see. If you don't mind I would like to visit the boys. I promise I won't be long there. As I do remember what you have told me about the council. Still, I would like to see them."

"Ah, very well. We shall go immediately. I will leave a message with my secretary. So that if the council is ready before we get back. Then they know where to find us."

"This is acceptable."

The men all got up and the Hokage called forth his Anbu guard to escort all of them to the hospital. They made their way slowly as many villagers were out in the streets. Everyone waved to the Leader of the Fire Nation. It wasn't every day that they got to see the Daimyo. Some wanted to get closer to the prestigious leader. But the Anbu kept them back. The procession continued on down the street with only three more blocks to go.

Kakashi sat in the chair next to his little brother. He once again was holding Naruto's hand. The only difference now was that Kakashi was bathed and wearing his street clothes. A pair of black shinobi pants and a black T-shirt with his regulation sandals were in place. His mask was also black in color and his headband was firmly in place over his eye.

Itachi was sitting with Sasuke. And like Kakashi he also was holding his little brother's hand. He was also bathed and wearing similar attire except that Itachi, didn't wear a mask and his headband was tied around his head. The T-shirt he wore was dark blue in color. But the rest of Itachi's attire was identical with Kakashi's. They had been coming every day since the day after the riots. They would spend all day in the boy's room. Sometimes they would chat softly to each other. Other times to their brothers. While still other times nothing was said at all. It seemed as though time had stopped for all of them. Fugaku and Mikoto came as often as their duties would permit them too. And most of Kakashi's friends would show up now and then. On the last visit his friends made, Kakashi saw that Guy was with them. Neither man made any move to speak to the other.

Kakashi still wasn't ready to speak to Guy yet. He was still afraid of what he might say or do. He didn't want to hurt his friend. And Kakashi did still see Guy as a friend. So he only nodded in Guy's direction to acknowledge his presence but nothing more. Guy was grateful for this small gesture. He knew then that Kakashi didn't hate him. But he wasn't sure if Kakashi blamed him at all. And Guy was still too afraid to ask. So he only acknowledged Kakashi's nod with one of his own accompanied with a small smile. It was a start. And they were both grateful for it.

Now sitting alone in the boy's room for the ninth day since both boys were admitted here. Kakashi and Itachi were beginning to wonder about what would happen once the two boys were conscious again. The doctor had said that Kyubbi had induced the comas they were in to help heal them. But what about their emotional well-being? What hurdles would they have to leap over now? But internal inquiry was broken as there was a knock on the door and the Hokage was seen coming in. And to Kakashi's and Itachi's surprise the Daimyo came in right behind him.

"Hello, boys. I see that you two are continuing to keep ever vigilance. Have you eaten or rested at all?" Asked the Hokage.

"Yes, sir. We have gone to our homes many times. But we spend most of our time here. We want to be the first people they see when they wake up." Replied Itachi.

The Third looked over at Kakashi to see if he would add anything. But the young man remained silent. He barely acknowledged both older men's presence. Remaining transfixed on Naruto. The Hokage decided to not reprimand Kakashi over his lack of response. Instead, the Hokage asked another question.

"So has Dr. Inoue, have anything new to say?"

"No."

The Daimyo watched the young men with a bit of sadness. He immediately understood without being told that the two little ones were the siblings of these two young men.

"I wanted to see the boys for myself". The feudal lord confessed. I'm going to the council chambers to take the necessary action against those who did this to these two boys."

"Please do sir. Or I will." An angered Kakashi ground out.

"Kakashi!" Reprimanded the Hokage.

"No. It's quite alright, Hokage. I don't blame the young man for his outburst. It would be more out of line if he hadn't said that."

At this, another knock at the door was heard. This time the person coming in was an attendant of the Daimyo. A tall and thin man with light bluish hair and light blue eyes. He spoke up quickly.

"My lord, the council has sent word that they are ready for us."

"Ah, then it is time for us to be going then." Replied the Daimyo. "Please let them know that we are on our way." Then walking over to Kakashi, the man placed a hand on his shoulder. "Kakashi, I promise that justice will be served this day. You will not be disappointed." Then looking over at Itachi as well. The Daimyo continued. "Believe me, neither of you will."

Both of the young men confirmed the Daimyo's words with a nod. Then the Hokage and Daimyo left the room as quickly as they came. It was time to get down to business. And both men were more than ready to begin. They left the hospital with the Anbu guard and headed straight for the council chambers.

Arriving at the chamber hall, the Hokage led the Feudal lord into the building and to a private council room. The door had the number one engraved into it and then painted with green paint. Once inside the room, the Daimyo was asked to take a seat. The room was of small office size. And had a long table with chairs all round it. On the wall with the door was also a thirty-two inch flat screen television hung expertly. It stood in front of the table that the Daimyo was now sitting at. Directly below the TV was a small oak cart. On top of it was a VCR with a cassette lying on top of the VCR.

Nara Shikaku, was standing next to the cart waiting patiently for the two leaders to get situated before he began his task. He wasn't particular happy to have the Feudal lord here under such unpleasant circumstances. But it couldn't very well be avoided. Once the two men were ready. Nara cleared his throat to begin.

"Greetings, my lord, my name is Nara Shikaku, the head council member, and I'm here to present video footage to you of the events of the night in question."

"Yes, I was told that there would be footage of that night. Please begin."

"Yes, of course, we will begin with the Eastern district. Then follow up with footage of the rebellion amongst some of the villagers in the other districts. We feel as council, that you should have the whole picture of events of the festival that night."

"There were riots in the other districts as well?" Asked the Daimyo incredulously.

"Yes, sir. Though the rioting was done mainly within the Eastern District. In the others, it was rebellion to the authorities order to return to their homes that led to some scrummages. Most people had obeyed and returned to their homes. What you will see is that the fights were small and led to no deaths or property damage very much unlike what happened in the Eastern District."

"Then please begin when you are ready." Replied the Feudal lord.

Councilman Nara wasted no time. He reached for the cassette and placed it within the VCR. As soon as the VCR was ready he pushed play. Everyone sat quietly as the footage began. Almost immediately it the Feudal lord's stomach started to do flip flops at what he was seeing. The fights were gruesome and it was obvious to him that some of the people were receiving fatal blows. He had never witnessed such savagery. It sent chills down his spine. But at the same time it angered him even more.

People were screaming and running trying desperately to get away from the combatants. Objects were thrown indiscriminately everywhere. Hitting people of all ages whether they were part of the brawls or not. Several people had head injuries. There were fires being set everywhere. Stores were being looted left and right. The police had on riot gear as they marched into the streets bravely fighting back the brawlers and restraining them. The Anbu and regular forces helping them. Some units were attacking and subduing the rioters. Others were giving aid to the innocent villagers that were injured and scared. And when he thought he saw the worst of it. The Daimyo saw two little boys running hands clasped in a hold to each other. Terrified expressions on their faces as they ran. 'No. he thought. It's about to get much worse.'

The footage of Naruto's and Sasuke's near death beating was the last straw. The Daimyo asked for the footage to be stopped and then got up and rushed over to a wastepaper can and vomited. One of the attendants was quick to rush over and rub the Feudal lord's back until he finished. Another attendant quickly existed with the can from the room soon after. The Daimyo turned and apologized to everyone for his display.

"No. apology is necessary my lord." Spoke the Hokage softly as he handed the Daimyo a bottle of water. Which the Feudal lord had taken and thanked the Hokage. Once he got rid of the vile taste in his mouth. The Daimyo spoke up.

"I wish to continue. I will try to contain myself better this time. It's just that I couldn't stand what was happening to the children. To think that this could happen and to children no less!"

"Believe me, I understand how you feel. Sometimes I wonder if there will ever be a time when people will look at a Jinchurriki with anything other than hate."

"Please let us continue."

"As you wish, sir."

The rest of the footage was shown as well as the footage from the other districts. And the Daimyo kept his word and didn't stop the proceeding again. Once finished all the men got up and headed for council chamber number three. There inside was the full council gathered along with the arresting officers of both police and Anbu. Councilman Nara went and stood at the podium at the front of the room. The room was large. The council sat at tables that went nearly the length of the room. Each table curved outwardly into an arc and each table was placed on a raised floor with steps off to each end. Another table would be behind the first but sat a little higher. There were four rows in all. It gave the effect of a small auditorium.

The Feudal lord sat in the front row in the very middle of the row. A place specifically set up for him. He sat quietly and waited for Councilman Nara to begin the next part of the proceedings. He didn't have to wait long.

"I would like to introduce to the Daimyo, the captain of the police force, Uchiha Fugaku."

Fugaku walked up to the podium. He nodded to the feudal lord. Then he looked out over the room. And began without hesitation his report. When he had finished, Fugaku stood ready to answer any question that the Daimyo had.

"Captain Uchiha, I have been told that the young Uchiha in the hospital is your son. Is this correct?"

"Yes, sir. Sasuke is Naruto's friend. They are very close." Fugaku held his emotions in check. But inside he felt sorrow over what had happened. Even now he wished he could have done more to protect his son and his friend.

"I see. I'm sorry for what has happened. But I promise I will do what needs to be done now. So that the children suffer nothing like this ever again."

"Thank you sir." Fugaku stepped down from the podium.

The Hokage went and stood at the podium next. He gave his report of the organized teams he had created to shut down the festival in each district. Then of his own encounters within the Eastern District as he imposed a lockdown to the area. Once he finished, the Hokage waited for any questions that the Leader of the Fire Nation would ask him. He wasn't left waiting long.

"Hokage, I must ask you. Who was the one to start this riot?"

"The person responsible is the same person who has in a sense created the Kitsune festival. Uchiha Madara." The Third spat the name out.

"Ah, so he decided to have another go at the village then?"

"No. actually, Madara, came this time to gain the Nine-tails Jinchurriki, Naruto. But the fool failed to realize the depth of the hatred the villagers had for Naruto."

The Daimyo cocked his head slightly as he asked. "Please explain."

"Madara's plan was to capture Naruto during the festival. He had planned on using the villager's hatred for Naruto as a means of cushioning his escape. For the past three festivals, the villagers have been lying in wait for Naruto. Thinking that his older brother would bring the boy to the festival. Once there they had planned on trying to kill Naruto. However, Hatake Kakashi, Naruto's legal adopted brother, would never bring the boy to the festival. Beside this Kakashi is an Anbu assassin. The villagers would never get near Naruto to do anything. But it never stops them from thinking they can."

"I see."

"Madara thought that by having Naruto at the festival. These people would see him and give chase. Madara had planned for his subordinates to catch the child and bring him to Madara who, was waiting nearby. They would use a different route to hide their escape. While the villagers would draw the police and Anbu in their direction. What Madara hadn't planned on was the hatred being so strong to be able to doggedly pursue the boys. Nor did he consider that some of the villagers have had a change of heart about Naruto. They rose up to defend the child and his friend. And thus a full blown riot broke out. Even killing both of Madara's subordinates. He escaped out of the village without getting the child."

"And Madara, did he escape?"

"No. I had pursuit teams waiting outside the village. He was killed by Hatake Kakashi."

"Kakashi, hm. That's the young man I saw at the hospital today?"

"Yes, sir. He is Naruto's older brother."

"Ah, I see." The Daimyo clasped both hands together under his chin as his eyes closed. The expression on his face told the Hokage that another question would be asked.

He didn't have long to wait. Without even opening his eyes, the Feudal lord spoke. "So… I have to believe then that someone else was responsible for the child being at the festival?"

The Hokage didn't blink in his response. "No. The young man who baby sat that night was approached and by Madara unknowingly."

"Unknowingly?"

"Yes. Might Guy, was baby-sitting for Kakashi. He is also a shinobi. However, Madara under a henge approached the young man. While Guy was on his way to Kakashi's house. Using the Sharigan, Madara was able to implant instructions to Guy to bring the child to the festival."

"Sharigan. Uchiha…It's a damn good thing that the Uchiha live in the Fire Nation. Otherwise, I would never get any sleep." A weary Daimyo replied then sighed deeply.

"Anyway, Guy is devastated by what has happened. He is a loyal comrade. And a great shinobi. No one believed that he would willingly do such a thing to his village or his comrades. Inoichi, confirmed everyone's' belief."

"I will accept your testimony of what you say of the young man, Might Guy. I will not pursue any action against him."

"Thank you sir."

"Now please bring me the rest of the evidence so that I may give my verdict on this matter. The execution of my decision will begin to be carried out tomorrow morning."

As ordered the rest of the evidence was brought before the Daimyo. Each of the Anbu captains responsible for each district they were assigned came forth and gave their witness accounts of events for their district. Then several officers of the police force gave more testimony of what happened that night. Once all evidence was presented to him. The Daimyo then left the room and returned to the small office he had been earlier that day. Everyone else took a thirty minute break before session reconvened. The Daimyo sat alone in quiet thought. He weighed the evidence against the reasons for the chaos. Then came to a conclusion for the more severe punishments that would be handed down to the villagers responsible. There was one decision that he didn't have to make now. The decision had been made over two weeks ago before he even left his home. It would be a hard thing to speak of to the council. But it was decision and it was final. He got up before the thirty minutes had even been up and returned to the council chamber.

When Saratobi saw the Daimyo leaving the office before time was up. He knew that at least some of what the Daimyo had decided on had been made before coming to Konoha. He didn't know if he was happy about this or not. What Saratobi did know for sure was that things were about to get very busy for his office and his shinobi.

Returning to the chamber came all of council. They talked among themselves as they shuffled on into the room. Everyone was in dread and yet eager to hear what the decision would be. As soon as the last council members took their seats. The Hokage stepped up to the podium.

"We have shared the evidence with our feudal lord. And we are now here to hear what he has decided and to carry out his decree. My lord, when you are ready." The Hokage stepped away from the podium to allow the Daimyo to step forth. The Daimyo wasted no time. He wanted to get this over as soon as possible. He hated to have to do things like what he was about to do.

"Thank you, Hokage. I have thought very deeply on the evidence that I was presented with. I also saw the clean-up that is taking place in the Eastern District as I made my way here. And I even went and saw the children that were attacked and are in the hospital." The Daimyo paused for a moment. Looking over the audience of council and seeing that he had their undivided attention. He continued.

"After reviewing the evidence in silence this is what is decided. First of all, those villagers who have murdered their fellow villagers. The death penalty will be given. Executions will be carried out for each one of them that can be confirmed murdered. The Uchiha police will receive help viewing the video and also their will no doubt be some eye-witnesses as well.

Everyone that took part in the riot by fighting, looting, vandalizing or attacking authorities. They will be taken to the ore mines around the fire nation. They will work there for three years. If any of them get into trouble while there. They will be sent to a maximum security prison for two years plus the time they had left at the mines. After the three years, they are to be relocated to other villages within the Fire Nation. Never to return here. "

Silence reigned as the Daimyo spoke. Everyone was riveted to their seats as they listened to what they were being told. Some were in shock. They couldn't believe that this was actually happening. The Daimyo kept going gaining more force in his speech as he went. He was angry. Everything could have been so much different if the people of Konoha could have gotten past the desire for revenge. Now it will cost them.

"This next decree concerns the Jinchurriki." This caught Saratobi's attention. As he quickly looked over at the feudal lord. For his part, the Daimyo continued with a steady voice.

"All villagers that disobeyed the authorities in all districts are to be relocated immediately. Again the video footage will aid in this task. As well as the eye witness accounts of the police and Anbu. I know that all civilians have been photographed and have a profile on file in the admissions office. Use it. The profiles will help you to find the guilty parties.

"As for everyone else they will have to decide whether or not they want to remain in this village or not. IF they decide to remain. Then they are agreeing to leave the Jinchurriki and his family and friends alone in peace. They cannot attack, molest, or harm the child in any way. They cannot discriminate against him from visiting their stores or venues. They cannot disallow him education or training. He is a citizen of this village and therefore is entitled to all the rights of a citizen of this village."

If these decrees are not met. If the villagers riot or attack the Jinchurriki again. All of the civilian population shall be completely relocated elsewhere. This is my decision on the whole matter. Make haste to perform it."

The following day the Hokage had gave an order for a televised announcement to be made by the Daimyo to all citizens of the hidden Leaf. Everyone was glued to their television sets as they watched in shock and some in outrage at what the Leader of the Fire Nation spoke of.

"Greetings, citizens of Konoha. It is with much sadness that I must inform you of my decision on this village. As you all know by now. The Kitsune festival this year was a disaster. The Eastern District, was the main focal point. But it wasn't alone. All districts participated to some extent. So let me tell you why I'm doing this in the first place."

"Let me read you the list of crimes. "

"Thirty-six murders".

"Over one hundred –fifteen injured"

"Over twenty stores were vandalized "

"Arson claimed six more business."

"And this is just in the Eastern District. In the other districts all combined, there were over sixty injuries.

"A combined thirty-two business vandalized."

"One arson which happened in the Southern District".

"What do you expect me to say to you for these actions? Praise you for it? I think not… What about the people that were hurt because of your actions? What about the thirty-six that died? They went to the festival that night with family and friends to enjoy the festivities. Instead they died. What do you say to their families?"

"The monster that you seek to destroy. The child cannot be blamed for this uproar. You have willfully attacked and killed your fellow citizens. You have willfully destroyed parts of your own village. You have openly defied the order of your Hokage and fought against him and all law enforcement. You know what I think about all of this? I think that the only monsters here are those whom desire revenge at any cost. And for those of you that believe that the child is the real monster. Think about this. For three years that you have had this festival. The demon Child as you like to call him, hasn't' harmed anyone. Not at your festival nor at any time of the year."

"While you have gone out and in one night, have killed, maimed, and destroyed without disregard of consequence or conscience. Now live with consequences you have sewn."

The morning turned into wails as people listened and heard the Daimyo pass judgement on the villagers themselves. Even as they watched. Knocking could be heard as people were being asked to leave Konoha for good. In a hospital in the Eastern district, Kakashi and Itachi, along with Mr. and Mrs. Uchiha watched the proceeding message. No one was happy with what was happening. But they knew it was necessary. The relocation would take a few weeks to complete. The sensory units would help with the task of getting all the culprits ousted out of the village. They also knew that the trials of proven murderers would also be completed within a few short weeks. No one wanted this. But no one could say that it wasn't the right decision.