Hey guys! Here's another chapter. Sorry for the long period in between updates. I'm currently (back) in school and most of my free time is being taken up by either homework and studying for quizes that we have nearly every single week. Trust me, its a bit stressful. But don't worry, I'm not going to quit until I finish. I made a promise and I will keep, no matter what! ^_^ In advance, sorry for any mistakes. I'll go back in and fixed them later.
Also... I do plan on updating more than one chapter next time, so look out for that. *Whenever I get it typed and ready.* -mumbles.-
But enough of my rambling, enjoy the chapter. P.S. There will be a question at the end. I could really use some feedback on a decision I need to make.
Thanks.
-Kazumi.
Tale of The Crimson Kitsune And The Silver Ookami
Chapter Twenty-Five: The Commencement Of The Five Kage Summit And Unexpected Meetings
Kazumi's Point of View:
The journey to Tetsu no Kuni (Land of Iron) was basically a long and tedious one, however, because we were tailing the group of Kumogakure nin, our senses were kept on high alert. The last thing we wanted was to alert them of our presence and end up jeopardizing our mission altogether. As we traveled through the different countries, there was a significant change in the climate. At first it was just a slight chill in the air, but that soon changed as we drew closer towards our destination. It wasn't until we trekked deeper into the territory of Tetsu no Kuni that we felt the full brunt of the type of weather that resided throughout the land. Tetsu no Kuni was nothing more than an icy, snow-covered country with bone-chilling temperatures. To add onto the cold, the icy winds and flurries of snow were blowing directly into our faces and slightly through our cloaks as we jumped through the treetops.
With all things considered, it was a good thing we were wearing our cloaks in the first place. At least it was some type of protection against the cold. And come to think of it, the cold weather here reminded me of Yuki no Kuni (Land of Snow). I know it's been awhile since I or the others have been there. Nearly half a decade to be exact, but I can still remember the country's freezing cold weather. While we continue to leap from branch to branch, Naruto suddenly lets out a loud sneeze. I guess the cold was really getting to him now. I couldn't blame him though, I was doing my best to ignore the cold as well, and sadly, I was failing.
"Shush." Captain Yamato tells him.
"Whoa. Boy it just got really cold all of a sudden." Naruto replies.
"Hey! We are on a stealth mission. So, shush." Captain Yamato tells him as he continues to hold one finger up to his mouth. He soon turns around and carries on with keeping track of the group of Kumogakure nin.
Not too long after things were seized by silence once more, Captain Yamato signals us to land. We do so and quickly hide behind a small rock formation, keeping our eyes fixated on the group. Within seconds, another group of Kumogakure nin arrives and lands before the group we've been tailing. There, we spot the Raikage of Kumogakure along with two more ninja, who I assumed were his advisors or guards. The two groups exchange a few words with one another when suddenly the blonde-haired male, who was standing next to the Raikage, turns his head towards our direction.
"Show yourselves you Hidden Leaf dogs!" he exclaims. Doing what he says, we all step out from our hiding spot with caution, revealing ourselves to the group of ninja. Leaping forward, we land before them.
"We need to talk, right now!" Naruto tells them.
"You actually tailed Samui." The blonde-haired male states quietly. "You guys are pretty impressive."
"But, but you…" the one named Omoi starts to say but was cut off by his loudmouth, rude, obnoxious teammate, Karui.
"How dare you, Naruto." She exclaims angrily with her eyes narrowed sharply. "You tailed us here? What's the big ideal?!"
"Hey boss," the older looking male with white hair says quietly. "That guy, the one standing there on the right, he's Kakashi Hatake."
"Come on, I know that much." The Raikage replies. "You're the Hokage's errand boy, Kakashi Hatake?" he asks.
"No sir. Today, I've come to ask a favor." Kakashi explains. "Naruto Uzumaki of the Leaf would like to petition you."
"Naruto Uzumaki, huh?" The Raikage asks.
"I was hoping you could hear his supplication." Kakashi continues. The Raikage just stands there staring at us in silence.
"Don't you think this is a bit rude? To interrupt us on the way to the Summit without any prior notice at all?" The blonde-haired male asks.
"Yes, we're quite aware of that." Kakashi tells him.
"Enough of this." The Raikage states sternly. "Alright, you there boy. Start talking." He says as he directs his attention onto Naruto.
"It's Sasuke." Naruto says. "I want you to cancel the elimination of Sasuke Uchiha!" It was clear to see that Naruto's request causes a few of them to look at him in shock.
"Hey, Naruto." Omoi says. "This isn't really the time."
"Are you still going on about that?!" Karui asks as she raises her arm into the air.
"Pretty brave." The older white-haired ninja states.
"Just what are you talking about?" The blonde-haired male asks.
"I know what I'm asking may sound ridiculous to you, but this is the only way that I really know how to say it!" Naruto explains. "Sasuke is my friend! And I can't just stand around and watch my friend get killed! And besides, I don't want Leaf and Cloud ninja killing each other because of Sasuke. I don't want my friends or yours getting lost in their need for revenge."
After listening to Naruto, the Raikage doesn't say a word and just proceeds to move forward, walking pass Naruto. But before he could get away, Naruto turns on his heels and rushes to stand in front of him. But that doesn't stop the Raikage. He simply sidesteps Naruto and continues to move. Naruto rushes back towards the Raikage once more but this time he quickly bows before the Leader of Kumogakure before he could move again.
"Look, I'm begging you!" Naruto exclaims strongly. "I don't want us taking each other down for vengeance anymore!" The Raikage just ignores Naruto's plea and walks around him. "Sasuke… has always been all about vengeance. He's obsessed with it. It changed him. And it… drives you mad. It turns you into someone you don't even recognize. I don't want anyone else to become like Sasuke. I don't want the Leaf and Cloud to kill each other. And that's why…" Naruto just pauses in midsentence as he tries to fight back tears. He soon just collapses to the ground.
"No matter what, we will dispose of Sasuke." The Raikage tells him. "You all ought to hold your ground afterwards."
"That's right. You're a fool." Karui tells him.
"We're in a rush so sorry. Your time is up." the blonde-haired male adds.
"Lord Raikage, please." Captain Yamato pipes up. "The incident in which you tired to obtain the Hyῡga Byakugan is still unresolved on our side. The Hidden Leaf swallowed our tears of blood to avoid war. A war whose seeds you of the Cloud had sown. Because of those noble sacrifices, your people still exist. Do not forget that."
Kakashi quietly walks forward and stands beside Naruto, "Right here and now, this young shinobi, no matter how awkward, is bowing his head with respect and affection for the Cloud and Leaf. Village and Nation. So, Lord Raikage, as one of the five Kage. Tell me, what do you think of this?"
The Raikage slowly turns to look at Naruto and suddenly turns to face us completely, "Shinobi shouldn't lower their heads so easily!" he barks. "Action and power are the things a shinobi should respect! Concessions are forbidden in agreement between shinobi. The history of mankind is a history of war. Since the Three Great Ninja Wars, every nation has tried to obtain powerful ninjutsu. Those who are weak are trampled. That is the truth of the shinobi world."
"Konohagakure and Kumogakure have always been enemies. So it was obvious that things weren't going to go well in the first place. However..." I thought as I look over at Naruto's down form.
"We'll brand the Akatsuki as wanted criminals. Once we do, not only I but the whole world will hunt Sasuke down." The Raikage adds. "You bow your head for a criminal and beg mercy to keep your comrade safe. In the Shinobi world, THAT is not friendship! You Hidden Leaf brat, think more deeply on what it is you need to do. A shinobi world is not so indulgent as do suffer fools." He tells him. "Let's go!" he tells his fellow ninja as he walks away.
"Naruto, enough. Raise your head." Kakashi tells him as he kneels beside him. Naruto just clenches his right hand and slams it into the snow in anger. Looking back towards the group of Kumogakure nin, I quickly rush pass Naruto, Kakashi and Captain Yamato to catch up with them.
"Kazumi, wait!" I hear Captain Yamato yell. His call falls upon deaf ears as I continue to run towards the group. Before long, I was able to catch up to them. Stopping in my tracks, I stand a few feet away from them.
"Lord Raikage, please, if I may?" I ask. Surprisingly the Raikage stops, causing his group to do the same. But even though he stopped, he kept his back facing me the entire time.
"Ugh, not you again!"Karui gripes with disgust. "Don't you know when enough is enough?" She asks in an irritated tone as she points a finger at me. "It's over. You heard Lord Raikage. Sasuke Uchiha is a dead man! You hear me?! Dead!"
Ignoring Karui, I keep my attention locked firmly on the Raikage, "Lord Raikage, I understand that you would want nothing more than to hunt down Sasuke Uchiha and make him pay for what he's done to you and your village. But please, can you reconsider your decision just this once?" I ask.
"You can beg all you want, but it won't help. You hidden Leaf dogs have allowed your rouge ninja to roam freely for far too long." The blonde-haired male states. "And since you haven't done anything about it, it looks like we'll have to take care of the dirty work."
"I know it may seem that way, but that's not the case. It never was. We've been busy dealing with the other members of the Akatsuki as well as dealing with the issues concerning Uchiha." I explain. "Before I continue, there's something I want to address. Your two shinobi here, Karui and Omoi, told us that Sasuke was responsible for attacking your village and capturing your Jinchuriki, the one you know as Killer Bee."
"You better watch it there, kid." The dark-skinned, white haired male states in a stern tone, interrupting me in the process. "You're treading on some mighty thin ice there." He warns me.
"Listen here you brat! You and your group have wasting enough of our time as it is, so let me make this very clear for you. You can run your mouths and make up as many excuses as you want in order to protect Sasuke Uchiha." Karui yells. "But in the end, Lord Raikage isn't going to change his mind! Not now or ever!"
"Look, just stop it, would ya." Omoi tells me. "You'll just end up embarrassing yourself."
"Then what if I tell you that your Jinchuriki is alive as we speak!?" I ask, causing everyone but the Raikage to look at me with shocked expressions on their faces.
"Say what?!" gasps the blonde-haired male.
"That's a bold claim to make there, kid." The white-haired male adds.
"I'm well aware of that and I agree that it is, especially since its coming from someone like me." I tell them as I look over to the blonde-haired male. "What was that you called us? Hidden Leaf dogs, right?" I ask him. Looking away, I turn back towards the Raikage. "But I know for a fact that what I say is the truth."
"Then where's your proof?" The Raikage asks as he turns his head to look at me out the corner of his eye. "If what you say is true, then surely you have the physical evidence to support such a bold claim."
I just let out a soft sigh, "You may not believe this but…" I pause for a second to prepare myself for what I was about to tell them. "I know that the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki is alive because…"
"She knows because of her special and unique gift." Captain Yamato sudden pipes up, causing me to stop in midsentence. Glancing over my shoulder, I find Captain Yamato coming forth to stand beside me. "You see, Kazumi here has the ability to sense the chakra of Tailed Beasts, along with their Jinchuriki. If they have one, that is."
Receiving a quick look from Captain Yamato, I glance back towards the Raikage and his fellow ninja, "He's right." I state immediately. "For instance, I know that the Eight Tails is an Ushi-oni, and I assure you that both the tailed beast and the Jinchuriki are very much alive."
"If you can sense him, then tell us where he's hiding?" Karui snaps.
"I-I can't. Even though I can sense him, I can't pinpoint his exact location." I tell them. "Since I'm not familiar with the Tailed Beast or the holder, I can't easily find them. You see, when the Kazekage of the Hidden Sand was kidnapped, I was able to locate him because I know him and have a clear sense of his chakra. Plus, I have a stronger connection to him since I've been exposed to his Tailed Beast's chakra as well as."
"I've heard just about enough of this!" Lord Raikage exclaims. "Like Karui said, you Leaf brats would say and do just about anything in order to save the Uchiha. I've made up my mind. The Uchiha will be labeled as an international criminal along with the remaining members of the Akatsuki! He will be hunted down! And he will be eliminated either by me or by another ninja from a different nation!" And with that, Lord Raikage turns around and proceeds to move forward.
"But Lord Raikage…"
"That's enough! You heard Lord Raikage." The blonde-haired male snaps. "You've wasted more than enough of our time. So we're through talking to you Hidden Leaf dogs!" He soon turns around and moves to catch up with their leader.
"Hmpf" Karui huffs triumphantly as she turns to catch up with her group as well. I couldn't help but to growl silently to myself as I watched her walk away with an arrogant look on her face.
"Why must Kumogakure nin have to be so freakin' stubborn to deal with?" I thought to myself as I start clenching my hands tightly into fists.
"Kazumi, don't bother saying another word." Captain Yamato tells me as he places his hand gently on my shoulder. "You and Naruto both did what you could."
I just lower my head and stared vaguely at the footprints in the snow, "But it wasn't enough to get the Raikage to change his mind. Now was it?" I ask solemnly. "He's going to follow through with his plans and there's nothing we can do about it." Looking back, I see Naruto still lying on the ground. "And there's no doubt Naruto is taking it pretty hard. I just hope he'll be alright." I thought. "Damn it, Uchiha. I really hope you are being controlled and not doing this because you want to."
"We should find shelter and get out of the cold." Captain Yamato suggests as we turn to look back at Naruto and Kakashi. "It's been a long day. We all could use some time to rest up before we move out."
"Sounds like a good idea." I reply back.
Normal Point of View:
As soon the Kage of the Five Great Nations arrived to the Summit, they were all greeted by the leader of the Land of Iron, General Mifune. Without wasting any more time, they all gathered into one single room to start the meeting. General Mifune sat before the five Kage as his two bodyguards stood on either side of him. The Fifth Mizukage: Mei Terumi sat at the end of the table on his left. High above sat her advisors/guards: Ao and Chōjῡrō. Sitting next to her was the Fifth Kazekage: Gaara. Watching just above him were Kankurō and Temari. Next was Sixth Hokage Candidate: Danzō Shimura with Fῡ Yamanaka and Torune Aburame. The Third Tsuchikage: Ōnoki, sat beside him and he was joined by Akatsuchi and his granddaughter, Kurotsuchi. And lastly was the Fourth Raikage: A, and he was joined by C and Darui.
"Place your Kage headpieces before you." General Mifune told the Five Kage, in which they do so without saying a word. "You, the Five Kage, assemble here today in response to Lord Raikage's summons. I, Mifune, will preside over these proceedings. And now, let the Five Kage Summit commence!"
"Then allow me to begin." Gaara piped up. "Listen…" he began but was interrupted by the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki.
"Heh. My, my, how the Kage have changed." He said with a laugh. "To be named Kage at your young age is quite impressive, Lord Kazekage. Yet despite your father's obviously brilliant guidance, it seems that he hasn't taught you any etiquette."
"Yes, probably." Gaara replied in an uninterested tone. "That's why I was chosen as Kazekage."
Ōnoki just bursts out into a fit of laughter at the Kazekage's comment, "You cheeky young rascal." He told him.
"Lord Tsuchikage, please do not interrupt anymore." The Fifth Mizukage, Mei Terumi, told him. She soon turned her attention onto Gaara. "Please continue, Lord Kazekage."
With that Gaara explain to the Kage how he was a former Jinchuriki and how the Akatsuki captured him, successfully extracting the Tailed Beast from him, thus killing him. This is the reason why he considers the Akatsuki as an extremely dangerous group. He continued by pointing out that he request aid from the other nations and that only the previous Hokage was the only one to help.
"Jinchuriki from all your nations have been taken." He continued. "To collaborate at this point is simply too little too late."
Ōnoki just grunts harshly, "The Five Great Nations' Hidden Villages can't afford to alert others that their Jinchuriki were taken. It's an embarrassment! Covert rescue and recovery is the norm. No one seeks aid from other lands when Jinchuriki disappear."
"Appearances and status. Such foolish, outdated, concepts." Gaara told him.
"Setting aside whether those beliefs are outdated or not, I will acknowledge that as Mizukage, I reframed from acting on this issue." Mei explained. "However, I don't believe that having our Tailed Beasts stolen has cause for immediate alarm. After all, it still takes significant skill, knowledge and time to achieve control over them."
"A Jinchuriki needs to mature along with their Tailed Beast to adapt to it. And even then, control remains difficult. It's not a simple task." Ōnoki pointed out. "Wouldn't you agree with that, Lord Kazekage?"
"Very few have achieved control over Tailed Beasts." Danzō piped up, speaking for the first time. "Madara Uchiha and First Hokage: Senju Hashirama. And of course the Fourth Mizukage: Yagura. As well as Lord Raikage's brother, Killer Bee." Danzō explained. "However…" Before he could continue….
"Enough of this nonsense!" The Raikage yelled as he slammed his fist into the desk with enough force to create a hole within the wood itself. This action causes the advisors of the Kage to jump to the aid of their leaders, creating a stalemate in the process.
"Hmm. This summit is a place of discourse." Mifune told them. "So please reframe from anymore behavior that lacks civility."
"Stand down, Fῡ. Torune." Stated Danzō, causing the two to step out of the fighting stances.
"You too, Kankurō. Temari." Added Gaara.
"Aō. Chōjῡrō. It's alright." Assured Mei.
"Yes ma'am." Replied Aō.
Ōnoki simply moved his head, gesturing to his advisors to head back up to their seats. Akatsuki and Kurotsuchi simply nod and do as they were told. Meanwhile the Raikage removed his fist from the broken desk and fell back into his seat, crossing his arms in the process as he released a loud grunt. The advisors all returned to their seats so that the summit could continue.
"Now let's continue our discussion." Mifune told them.
Kazumi's Point of View:
After departing the area where we met the Raikage, we trekked farther into Tetsu no Kuni and eventually find ourselves entering a small size town with an Inn within the vicinity. Wasting little time, we checked into the Inn and made our way to our rooms. We decided that Naruto and Captain Yamato would share one room while Kakashi and I shared the other. While Naruto and I got settled in our rooms, Kakashi and Captain Yamato went off somewhere to talk. There was no doubt in my mind that the two were talking about what had occurred, as well as, what would be our next move. I wouldn't be surprised if our next move was to return back to the village as soon as possible.
Moments after I was finished getting settled, I walked over to the window and took a seat. Sitting my elbow on the windowsill, I place my chin inside my hand and just stared out the window in silence. Snow was still falling at a steady place, covering the old snow and the footprints with fresh new snow. As I watch the snowflakes dance freely from the dark clouds above, I couldn't help but recall the recent events as I played them over and over inside my head. And once again, the anger I was feeling earlier quickly returned, causing a low growl to build up within my throat.
"I swear that Raikage is such an arrogant hot-head. Why on earth did I actually believe that if I told him that his Jinchuriki was still alive, he would change his mind about eliminating Uchiha? I knew it wouldn't be that easy!" I continued as I mentally face-palmed myself. "Honestly, I should have known. It was obvious that neither one of them were going to see our way of things to begin with."
"Don't beat yourself up on this, Pup." Kiyiya tells me. "What you did back there was better than just standing there doing nothing. You probably would have felt more regret if you didn't do anything at all."
"Hm. Yeah, you're right about that." I reply back as I close my eyes for a second to think. "But you know something? I really feel like going after that red-haired, amber-eyed chick just so I can punch her one good time in the jaw. Maybe that will make me feel a little better."
"Yeah, about that, Pup. Don't let that arrogant, obnoxious, loudmouth kunoichi from Kumogakure get to you." She says in a stern tone. "You and I both know that she isn't worth the time or energy."
"Hmpf. I really should have punched her when I had the chance." I mumble quietly to myself.
"Listen, that girl is the least of your concerns." Kiyiya quickly states. "You should be focusing on the things that matter. Things like helping out with the reconstruction once we return back to Konoha and your training so you can deal with the final members of the Akatsuki. These should be your top priority."
"I know and you're absolutely right, Kiyiya." I tell her as I lean backwards. Once I was lying flat on the floor, I place my hands behind my head and just stare up at the ceiling. "It looks like we have no other choice but to worry about Sasuke at another time. But since he's associated with the Akatsuki, there's no doubt we'll be crossing paths again."
"You never know, it could happen sooner than you think." She adds.
"Mm-hm." I hum quietly. "Today has been filled with nothing more than disappointments, especially for Naruto." I thought. "He hasn't uttered a single word since we got here, and I can't help but to worry about him."
"Just give him his space." Kiyiya tells me. "There's no doubt that what happened earlier affected him. He probably just needs time to think things over. I'm sure he'll talk once he's ready to do so."
I just nod my head in agreement. As I continue to enjoy the silence around me, it was suddenly interrupted by the sound of light knocking against my door. "Hm? Come in." I call out in a low tone of voice.
Seconds later, I hear the door slide open. Parting my eyes slightly, I glance towards the door to see Kakashi and Captain Yamato entering the room. Kakashi just had the same lazy look he always has, but as for Captain Yamato, he looked a bit more serious. That's when a thought hit me. Captain Yamato was either here to address what had happened back there with the Raikage, or, he was going to address the fact that I was going to reveal the truth to the Kumogakure leader that I was the Ten-Tails' Jinchuriki. Heck, to be honest, I wouldn't be surprised if he came to address both subjects.
"Kazumi, we need to talk." Captain Yamato tells me, his tone mimicking the expression on his face. Yeah, he was dead serious.
"Oh boy. Well, I can't say I didn't see this coming." I thought as I lifted myself off the floor, shifting into a comfortable sitting position. "Okay? What do we need to talk about, Captain Yamato?" I ask nonchalantly, making sure he had my undivided attention.
"We need to discuss what you were planning to do back there." he tells me. "You do realize that any and all information on the Ten Tails and you being its Jinchuriki is an S-rank secret? It's not known to the villagers of our own village, not even the Sixth Hokage Candidate, Danzō."
"Yes, I know. I'm also well aware of the fact that only a selected few know." I tell him. "However, there's a chance that a few villagers and fellow shinobi have learned of the secret since I had to transform during Pein's invasion. And if so, I don't know how many actually know."
"Well, be that as it may, the other Hidden Villages, excluding the Hidden Sand of course, are still in the dark about it. So why on earth would you relay this information to the Raikage of Kumogakure?" he asks. "Do you have any idea what could've happened if you had done so?"
"Sorry Captain Yamato, but I couldn't just stand there and do nothing." I tell him in a firm tone. "Naruto was trying his best to get the Raikage to reconsider his decision. And at that moment in time, I could only think of one way that may help us succeed in our mission. I knew it was a big risk to take, but I was willing to do so. In addition to that, I was also ready for whatever consequences awaited the choice I made."
"Wait a minute. Are you sure about that, Kazumi?" Captain Yamato asks. Folding my arms against my chest, I just nod my head to answer his question. "You are willing to let the whole world know that you're the Ten Tails' Jinchuriki if it meant Sasuke would no longer be labeled as an International criminal?"
I nod my head firmly once more, "Yes, that's right. However, it would be more for Naruto's benefit than Uchiha's." I answer bluntly. "I know for a fact that Naruto will take a beating for Uchiha's sake instead of selling him out, however, I haven't a clue as to how far he will actually go for him, which worries me intensely. And as a member of Team 7, I cannot continue allowing Naruto to keep doing this alone. He needs to know that his teammates have his back, no matter what he decides. And that he can also depend on us if need be."
"Kazumi, be that as it may, Jinchuriki from other nations are kept a secret from one another for a reason, and you're no exception." He explains. "These rules were created when the Hidden Villages were founded, and they are the rules we continue to follow to this day. In addition to this, it's known that the Hidden Leaf has authority over the strongest Tailed Beast of them all, the Nine Tails and only the Nine Tails. If words gets out that we have two Tailed Beasts, especially one that is stronger than the Nine Tails, then there's no doubt that conflict will proceed afterwards."
"What Yamato is trying to say is; we know your heart was in the right place and you were trying your best to protect your teammates, however, you have to be careful." Kakashi explains. "We have no idea how the Raikage would've acted if he had found out that important piece of information. Especially since we've been keeping it a secret for nearly two decades."
"You know Kakashi; you can be too lenient sometimes." Captain Yamato tells him in a straightforward tone. Kakashi just shrugs his shoulders in a uninterested manner.
Sighing lightly, I continue to stare at the two Jounin that stood before me. "Look, I get it, alright. I nearly screwed up big time. But I honestly didn't know what else to do." I explain to them. "I figured that if the Raikage heard that his Jinchuriki was alive and well, he would at least think about changing his decision. And unfortunately for us, he didn't."
"Well don't give in just yet. We know that Sasuke won't go down without a fight, so we still may have a chance to stop him before the other nations can do so." Kakashi tells me. "We just have to stay optimistic. Okay?"
"Yeah, just stay optimistic." I repeat silently to myself. "Easier said than done, Kakashi." I thought as I glance over my shoulder. Looking over at the window, I noticed that the snow was falling much faster than before. "I wonder… How are the others taking the news about Uchiha?"
Normal Point of View, Konohagakure:
Back within the Hidden Leaf, Sakura and Shizune were inside Lady Hokage's personal tent, hoping that her condition had improved. But sadly it hasn't. The last surviving member of the Legendary Sannin was still unresponsive, but at least her condition hadn't deteriorated any farther, which was a good thing for the two medical nin.
"If only Lady Tsunade would wake up from her coma. I know she'll fix this whole mess with Sasuke." Sakura thought to herself.
"Sakura." Shizune said quietly as she noticed the solemn look on the pinkette's face. Shizune could tell that Sakura had a million things running through her mind at that very moment.
"Excuse me." A familiar voice called out. When the opening of the tent was moved, they both saw Sai walking in.
"Oh, Sai." Sakura said.
"Sakura, we have to talk." Sai told her, his voice was firm and serious. With that, Sai began explaining to Sakura what had happened between Naruto and the Kumogakure nin they've encountered a few days earlier.
"He did what?" Sakura asked.
"That's right. In order to protect Sasuke, he took all of her abuse." Sai continued. "But he never sold out Sasuke. Not only that, in order to prevent you from worrying, he asked me to keep it quiet."
"Naruto…"
"And now, he's on his way to ask the Raikage to pardon Sasuke." Sai added.
"What?!" Shizune gasped. "Why would he be so reckless? Wasn't Kakashi with him?"
"I doubt that would've stopped him." Sai told her honestly. "Kakashi sensei believes in Naruto. Even if it's a long shot, Kakashi wants to give him a chance."
"If Lady Tsunade had been there, she would've done the same thing." Shizune thought.
"Sakura, recently I was assigned to Team Kakashi to take Sasuke's place. So I still don't know all of you pretty well. And I'm not good with emotions." Sai explained to her. "Although…"
At that point, Sai explained to Sakura how Naruto told him that he couldn't tell Sakura how he felt because he wasn't able to keep his promise.
"I don't know what promise he made to you, however, even I am able to see that Naruto's in love with you!" Sai exclaimed strongly.
It was that comment that Sakura started to focus on how Naruto acted around her when they were younger. Even up to now. At first, she thought that it was just a simple crush. But as she thought about it, she realized that it was much more than that. From the way he acted in order to get her to notice him, she couldn't believe how she didn't notice it sooner. He even knew how much she loved and care for Sasuke and that was one reason he made that promise to her. As the memories of Naruto telling her that he would keep his promise flashed through her mind, tears had exited her eyes and were now flowing down her cheeks.
"Sakura." Shizune called out quietly, only for the pinkette to shake her head, telling her not to say another word.
"Seems Naruto has shouldered the burden of his promise to you." Sai concluded. "And plans to for the rest of his life. I don't know what you said to Naruto, but it's really no different then what was done to me. it's like a curse mark. It's obvious that Sasuke is making Naruto suffer. But I think you maybe too."
"Wait a minute." Shizune piped up. "Naruto genuinely wants to rescue Sasuke. It's not just because of his promise to Sakura. Don't you think that's true?"
"Yes, I totally agree with you." Sai told her. "But, both Sakura and I, and everyone else rely on Naruto too much. I've been watching Naruto lately, and I think I've figured out what he's feeling. Its sadness. And then, when I think about Sasuke, I get a burning feeling in my gut. And I've come to know that that's anger. So for Naruto's sake, as well as that of the Hidden Leaf, we must not rely solely on Naruto anymore. We have to take action ourselves. Sasuke is…"
"Sai is right." a new voice states. Glancing to the entrance of the tent, the group found Shikamaru stepping in.
"Shikamaru." Shizune said as that said individual walked further into the tent.
"We're not kids anymore. We need to stop the Akatsuki and then, we have to stop Sasuke." Shikamaru told them. "I came here to talk to Team Seven's members and to get their consent."
"Consent? Please don't tell me that…" Shizune asked.
"Yeah, that's right." Shikamaru answered. "We can't allow a war to break out between the Hidden Leaf and Hidden Cloud because of Sasuke. Let me try to put it another way. Just hear me out. If the Hidden Cloud did kill Sasuke, there's no way that you, or Ino, or Kazumi and especially Naruto, will let it be. And if any of you were to lash out recklessly and get killed by Cloud ninja, Neither I, or Chōji, or Inoichi, Kakashi or your parents will just sit still. We'll go out and avenge you. And before you know it, we will be in the middle of a full out war. And from what we learned, they've already labeled Sasuke as an international criminal. The hatred will continue to grow if Sasuke remains associated with the Akatsuki. So I believe it's time for the Hidden Leaf to deal with Sasuke ourselves. You understand what I'm saying, right Sakura?"
Sakura just stood there with her head lowered. Fresh tears were escaping her eyes as they slid down her face, eventually ending up falling to the floor. The pink-haired medic continued to remain silent, as if the simple task of speaking had become foreign to her.
"That's why I want your consent." Shikamaru concluded. "Sakura, will you…"
"Shikamaru. Please, just don't." Sakura said, interrupting her fellow Chῡnin. "Don't say… anything more."
"I'm sorry, Sakura. But regardless of what your answer is, I'm going to have to act to protect the Leaf's future." He told her. "I'll talk to Naruto and Kazumi about this as well. Where are they right now?"
"Naruto is gone." Sai answered. "He, along with Kazumi, Kakashi sensei and Captain Yamato went to the Land of Iron to meet with the Raikage."
"What?! He's willing to go that far?" Shikamaru asked. "Well, I should have known that this whole thing was going to be a drag."
"I want to be the one to talk to Naruto." Sakura told them, causing them to look at her in disbelief. "Since he's the fool that fell for me, I want to do it. Let me take on that role." Shikamaru just nodded his head in agreement. "I'm the one who caused Naruto the most pain. I'm always messing up. Just one failure after another. I don't want to make any more mistakes. I don't want to fail!" She thought privately to herself. "I'll do it."
Kazumi Point of View:
When Kakashi and Captain Yamato left, the room was recaptured by silence once more and I was left to my own thoughts. However, it was short lived when I found myself being pulled out of them when out of nowhere….
"Go to Hell!" I hear Naruto exclaim.
Soon after that, the entire building began to shake violently, as if a bomb had suddenly went off. What made matters worse was that the explosion came from the room over, Naruto and Captain Yamato's room. Jumping to my feet, I run out of my room and head to Naruto's to see if he was okay and to find out what the heck was going on. Sliding the door open, I find Naruto standing in a ready position as he faced the newly created hole that early consumed his entire room. Looking to my right, I found the reason why Naruto was looking so tense. There, standing on the roof of the Inn, was none other than the masked Akatsuki Lord Fourth told us could be the one pulling the Akatsuki's strings.
Before we could make a move, a pillar of wood appears and wraps tightly around the masked man's body. Several more pillars sudden shoot from out of nowhere. Acting on pure instinct, Naruto and I both look away in an attempt to shield our eyes. As we uncover our eyes, we look forward to find Captain Yamato on the other side of the newly formed wall, crouched down in a ready position. At the same time, Kakashi was standing behind the masked man with a charged lightning blade aimed and ready.
"Naruto. Kazumi. You two just stay put." Captain Yamato orders.
"Should have figured, Kakashi of the Sharingan. You're quick." The masked man tells him in a calm tone.
"We won't let you get your hands on Naruto and Kazumi that easily, Madara Uchiha." Kakashi tell him, his tone firm and serious.
"You did hear what I just said, didn't you?" Madara asks. "There are no attacks that exist that work against Madara Uchiha."
"Even if you were erasing yourself, or this is just an astral projection, you'll still have to manifest physically to take Naruto and Kazumi." Captain Yamato points out. "Otherwise you can't actually take them. I'll wait for that moment." He adds as he causes more pillars of wood to rise higher. "You're in my territory now."
"Well, I never imagine this to be easy." Madara states with a slight chuckle. "I will admit I have a plan in mind. But at this moment, I'm only here to talk."
"Talk?" Kakashi asks.
"That's right. I want to know what you did to make Nagato betray me, Naruto." Madara says to Naruto. "You sparked my interest."
"I don't care about what you want!" Naruto snaps back. "What are you planning to do with Sasuke? Come on, tell me!"
"Sasuke, huh?" Madara repeats. "Very well then. I'll tell you about the man who's been steeped to his very marrow, this shinobi's world's hatred and resentment. The story of Sasuke Uchiha. But Sasuke's story cannot be told without also telling Itachi's. So first I'll tell you the truth about Itachi."
Normal Point of View, Five Kage Summit:
Back at the summit, the conversation between the Five Kage and Mifune of the Land of Iron was interrupted by a strange, milky-white, plant-like creature that just popped out of the ground before the ground. The creature was no doubt a strange one. Not only was his appearance weird, but the manner in which he talked was just as strange. Before the Akatsuki member could get away, the Raikage is quick to act and catches the creature by his neck.
"Where is Sasuke now? Answer me!" The Raikage stated in a demanding tone.
"Well…. since you left me with no choice, I'll give you a little hint." The Akatsuki told him. But before he could utter another word, the Raikage kills him by snapping him neck.
"Cee, begin." The Raikage told his advisor with the blonde hair.
"Sir." He answered and quickly performed a single hand sign.
"You didn't have to kill him, you know." Lady Mizukage told him. "If we restrained and interrogated him, we may have obtained useful Intel on the Akatsuki."
"It wouldn't work." Gaara told her. "No one in the Akatsuki has ever talked. They all are completely devoted."
Seeing the situation turning, Mifune orders his men to find Sasuke as well as order a Number Two Battle Ready State Alert. Moments after the order was given, Cee alerts the Raikage about finding Sasuke's location. Not wasting any time, the Raikage orders Aō of the Mist to keep an eye on Danzō while he and his men go after the Uchiha. Then instead of using the door, the Raikage punches straight through the wall and runs out of the room.
"I'm sorry about the desk and the wall there." Darui, the other advisor of the Raikage, told Mifune as he scratched the back of his head sheepishly.
"Hey, Darui. Quit yapping and let's go already." Cee told him teammate as he rushed out the room to catch up with their leader. After apologizing, Darui quickly does the same.
It was clear that the new objective for the Raikage, his advisors and the Samurai who were all attending the Summit was plain and simple. Hunt Sasuke Uchiha down and don't let him get away.
Kazumi's Point of View:
"That's a lie!" Naruto yells as he slams his clench fist onto the wood pillar before him. "You're making all of that up!"
"You can't be serious." I mutter. "You actually expect us to believe what you're telling us?"
"It can't be. It can't." Captain Yamato says quietly.
"Tch. Your jokes aren't funny." Kakashi tells Madara. "Who'd believe a story like that?"
"I'm not lying. Everything I said about Itachi is true." Madara replies back. "He died for Sasuke and for the Hidden Leaf Village as well."
"It doesn't make sense. If what you say is true, then Sasuke knows it." Kakashi concludes. "Then why would he ever help the Akatsuki? I would think he would return to the Hidden Leaf to carry on Itachi's will."
"Hmpf. As Sasuke's teacher and as his friends, you all assume that you know his true feelings." Madara states. "But you couldn't be more in the dark. He's the real thing, a true avenger."
"You made him that way." Naruto exclaims. "Didn't you?!"
"No. It wasn't me." Madara answers. "Sasuke chose this path all on his own."
"You're a liar." Naruto growls. "That's not true."
"I took a gamble on whether he would take on Itachi's will or seek revenge against the Hidden Leaf. He chose vengeance." Madara continues. "That means he's one of my kind. Sasuke's goal now is to reap vengeance upon the Hidden Leaf for what they did to Itachi and to the entire Uchiha clan."
"Why?" Naruto asks. "Why would he? How did this whole thing turn into such a big mess? Why did he decide to choose revenge?"
"It couldn't be helped." Madara tells him. "It's the Uchiha Clan's blood-soaked destiny of hate. It's a curse that's been passed down through the ages."
"A curse? What do you mean?" I ask.
"It's a curse of hatred that began generations ago with the father of all shinobi, The Sage of the Six Paths." Madara explains.
"Sage of the Six Paths?" Kakashi repeats. "But that's nothing but a myth. The Rinnegan was simply a random mutation. That's all."
"But myths are often based on the truth." Madara tells him in a matter-of-fact tone. "The Sage of the Six Paths taught Ninshu, the Shinobi Creed, and tried to foster world peace. But his end came before he could fulfill his dream. The Sage bequeathed his will and also his teachings tow his two children, both sons. The oldest son had been born with the Sage's eyes, granting him chakra powers and mental energy. He knew strength was necessary for peace. The younger son had been born with the gift of the Sage's body, granting him stamina and physical energy. He knew love was necessary for peace. On his deathbed, the Sage chose a single successor. His decision created the eternal curse of hatred that has continued for generations."
"What do you mean by that?" Naruto asks.
"The Sage decided to chose not the older brother who sought strength, but the younger brother who sought love. And made the second son his successor." Madara answers. "The firstborn, who had long expected to follow in his father's footsteps, could not accept this decision and declared war against his brother. The descendants of these two brothers continued to fight one another throughout the ages. And eventually the descendants of the older brother came to be known as the Uchiha while the descendants of the younger brother were known as the Senju."
"Senju… You mean the clan of the First Hokage?" Kakashi asks.
"That' right." Madara answers. "I have met Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage; in battle many, many times… Naruto Uzumaki. I can tell that you hold Senju's Will of Fire within you. Senju and Uchiha, Will of Fire and hatred, Naruto and Sasuke…"
"So he's saying that because of the conflict between the two brothers, Naruto and Sasuke will eventually fight one another." I thought.
"Sasuke has shouldered the entire burden of Uchiha hatred and plans to ram that curse of hatred deep into the world. That hate is his strongest weapon… his friend… and the true source of his power. That is Sasuke's Ninja Way! Either you two meet or I throw him at you, the battle will happen. And I will allow Sasuke to prove his heritage as an Uchiha."
"If that's your primary goal, then exactly why are you collecting the Tailed Beasts?" Kakashi asks. "We know you want the Ten Tails, but what's your true objective?"
"Yes, reviving the Ten Tails is part of my true objective. However, the rest, I'll tell you under more fitting circumstances." He answers. "It was fun…. chatting with you all. Later." With that, Madara using his ability to warp his entire body, disappearing within seconds.
"He's gone." Kakashi tells us.
"But like he said, this won't be the last we'll see of him." Captain Yamato reminds us.
"I swear, the situation just continues to get even more complicated by the day." I thought. "And I have a feeling that things are going to get worse before they even begin to get any better."
Question: The Fourth Great Ninja War Arc is coming up soon. Should I have Kazumi join the war early with the Shinobi Alliance (place her in a division and which one) or later on with Naruto and Bee? I could really use your feedback. Either leave your answer in a review or PM me. Again, thanks. ^_^