The Pantheon of Nine
By: Finn Mertenz
A/N: kidexx - Can you provide me with any evidence why you think Hashirama or Madara is stronger than Hiruzen? Because, if your going to quote some retconned piece of shit from Naruto Shippuden, please don't even bother.
According to your logic, "Hiruzen mastering all jutsu in Konoha is bullshit said by kids who don't know any better." To which I must ask, did you watch Naruto part 1? Or read the manga/databooks?
It was confirmed by Kabuto (in Naruto part 1) that Hiruzen mastered every single technique in Konoha. I'm being literal, if a technique existed in Konoha, Hiruzen learned it.
Even if we ignore Kabuto, the fourth databook (which was never retconned) also confirms he mastered all jutsu in Konoha. This includes Fuinjutsu (The Reaper of Death) Forbidden Jutsu (the Flying Thunder God) and Hiden Jutsu (Expansion Jutsu, Shadow Imitation and etc).
I'm not making this up, I'm just respecting the lore that Kishimoto established in part 1. Politically, Hiruzen was a dogshit Hokage, but in terms of strength, he's the 2nd strongest, behind Minato.
Your argument is dependent on several retcons from Naruto Shippuden, so, in my opinion, it isn't valid. Hiruzen doesn't need a Kekkai Genkai, and respectfully, you're wrong, Hiruzen's chakra pool is Kage-level, even at his old age.
Hiruzen is the only shinobi in the entire series to display mastery over all 7 chakra natures (including Yin and Yang). Hiruzen could use every single existing technique in Konoha (including Ino's mind swap).
Hiden techniques don't require any Kekkai Genkai to learn them, they're just kept secret by their clan. However, Hiruzen was the Hokage, so he had access to all of them.
Also, Hiruzen is the only shinobi in the entire series that had maxed scores in all four shinobi schools. Genjutsu, Ninjutsu, Taijutsu and Hand Seals, no one else had that - in the entire series.
You're severely downplaying the significance of Hiruzen vs Orochimaru, from a narrative perspective and lore perspective. There's a reason he couldn't kill Orochimaru, it's called love.
To make a comparison, Hiruzen killing Orochimaru would be the same as Kakashi killing Naruto. Orochimaru was Hiruzen's favorite student, and he groomed him to be Hokage for decades.
I understand you hate Hirzuen, and he's you're least favorite Hokage, but that isn't the point. You're hatred of Hiruzen doesn't excuse the false rhetoric in your argument.
For example, Tobirama is my favorite Hokage, but I'm still able to admit he's the weakest. Just because you hate Hiruzen, that doesn't mean he's weak, in part 1, he was the strongest living Kage.
Disclaimer: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO. I DO NOT CLAIM TO OWN NARUTO.
Chapter 103: The Flame Of Youth! Grow, Choji, Grow.
Tuesday 7:38am, January 21st 38SSP.
"Dad... What's that?" The voice of a 6 year old Might Guy could be heard.
Guy wore a full-bodied green outfit with both sleeves were torn off, revealing his fair skin. Also, Guy's most prominent feature was the red scarf around his neck, jutting towards the sky.
"That's the sun." The stern voice of Might Duy spoke out.
Similar to his son, Duy wore a full-bodied green outfit, contrasting the orange leg warmers and scarf he wore. This brought attention to his bushy eye brows, matching his thick moustache and goatee.
"It feels warm." Guy muttered, reaching towards the sky.
As he spoke, Guy tried to grab the sun, but it was too far away to reach, creating a smile across Duy's face. This father and son were standing atop the Hokage Monument, glancing out across Konoha.
Soon, various rays of sunlight pierced the morning sky, shining down upon Guy and his father. Without warning, Duy reached out before wrapping one arm around his son, pulling him close.
"That's the flame of youth. Burning and bursting, before the final climax." Duy explained.
Despite Duy's veteran age, he was still just a Genin, forever known as the Eternal Genin. Infact, Duy regularly failed the most basic of D-rank missions, stuck as a Genin for almost twenty years.
"But.. What's the final climax?" Guy questioned, staring at his own hand.
Instead of responding with words, Duy grabbed his chin before releasing a deep hum. While this occurred, a fire hawk was soaring through the background, delivering a message to the 3rd Hokage.
"It's something very special, a moment that you'll cherish and protect." Duy replied, pulling on his goatee.
Guy then became hypnotized by Duy's bushy moustache, staring at him with admiration. Guy never knew his mother, the only parent he ever had was Duy, a devoted father.
"Some day, you'll understand." After Duy spoke, rays of sunlight concealed everything from view.
This moment was the very first memory that Guy could remember, an adolescent conversation with his father. However, this moment would continuously echo through Guy's mind, shaping his destiny.
Twenty years later.
The distinct sound of a screeching hawk could be heard, drawing attention to the vibrant outline of Konoha. This village was partially covered with fresh wood and construction platforms, still recovering from Orochimaru's attack.
The Hokage's Office then came into view, filled with the stern yet youthful silhouette of Might Guy. This 26 year old shinobi was dressed in the iconic Hokage robes, adorned with the kanji for 'five' sewn across the back.
Guy was standing in front of his desk, glancing out the nearby window, gazing upon the sunbaked village of Konoha. Much had changed over the past twenty years, but Guy never lost his youth.
Suddenly, a distant door was opened but Kakashi strolled into view, shuffling through a stack of papers. But Guy didn't even react, he was too distracted by his own thoughts.
"Let's see... You have a meeting with the elders this afternoon." Kakashi exclaimed, pulling a single page loose.
"Did you read it, Kakashi?" Guy muttered, earning a quick sigh in response.
"Of course, I read everything that touches your desk." Kakashi declared.
After speaking, Kakashi took several steps forward, approaching Guy's desk before picking up a piece of paper. This page was personally written by Neji himself, authorized by Sasuke's unique signature.
"I never imagined that another Uchiha could've survived." As Kakashi spoke, he held Sasuke's report with one hand.
This report contained a detailed description of Tobi, and the unique Sharingan eye that he possessed. However, this realization was too strange to believe, the entire Uchiha clan was almost wiped out over five years ago.
"How could the Akatsuki get their hands on such a valuable asset?" Guy cut in, glancing at his advisor.
"I can't say. But we've received reports of strange activity from the Land of Rivers." Kakashi remarked.
"We have some intel on the Akatsuki... But all our information comes from Lord Jiraiya." While speaking, Kakashi held a handful of papers.
After hearing these words, Guy sat down in front of his desk, clasping both hands together. This was followed by a deep and dramatic hum, creating a brief silence.
"The Land of Rivers is a neutral country... If Tani finds out, our trust would be shattered." Guy proclaimed.
Before this conversation could progress, a fire hawk soared into view, landing outside the nearby window. This hawk then leapt atop Guy's desk, presenting a freshly written note.
Without hesitating, Guy quickly grabbed this note before reading it, causing his eyes to race from side-to-side. Guy then handed this note to Kakashi before glancing outside.
"A call for aid... From the 5th Taikage? When did Tani get a new Kage?" Kakashi stuttered.
"The flames of youth burn in our favor." Guy interrupted, grinning from ear-to-side.
This declaration was followed by various rays of light, radiating out from Guy's pearl white teeth. Because of this, Kakashi lowered his head with embarrassment, sulking behind Guy's desk.
"Find Sasuke and deploy his team. With our students working together, nothing can stop them." As Guy spoke, he crossed both arms in front of his chest.
"Heh... Actually, I gave Sasuke the day off... It's a special occasion." Kakashi explained.
"Special occasion?" Guy repeated, quickly obscured by a flying hawk.
Meanwhile.
The market of Konoha was bustling with life and commerce, filled with ecstatic children and smiling adults. However, the solemn expression of Sasuke could be seen in the background, casually walking.
Because of his snow white skin, Sasuke deeply contrasted his surrounding, earning several glares from nearby children. But instead of reacting, Sasuke held the back of his head with both hands, glancing up at the sky.
"The entire day off... What am I gonna do?" Sasuke asked himself.
Over the past two months, Sasuke's entire life had changed, robbed of his childhood friend and teammate. Even Sakura was gone, and Kakashi was too busy with paperwork.
Even on such a special day, Sasuke couldn't decide what to do, he usually just followed Naruto. While pondering these thoughts, Sasuke strolled through the village of Konoha, walking down various streets.
Soon, Sasuke stumbled upon the rustic entrance to the Uchiha Compound, freshly cleaned and polished. This revelation created an expression of disbelief across Sasuke's face, wrinkling his nose.
After mumbling under his breath, Sasuke scratched the bridge of his nose before walking forward. This brought attention to the nearby street, freshly swept and sparkling with perfection.
"Did someone sweep? I was supposed to do that?" As he spoke, Sasuke crossed both arms in front of his chest.
Ever since the massacre of his clan, Sasuke lived in the massive Uchiha Compound by himself. The entire district was his own private manor, a reminder of everything he lost.
As Sasuke briefly thought about his childhood, he noticed a pair of shadows inside his manor. This realization sent Sasuke into a moment of panic, rushing towards his house with Sage-level speed.
"Mother? Mother!?" While stuttering these words, Sasuke focused on the silhouette of a woman inside his kitchen.
Utilizing his insane speed, Sasuke charged inside his home, throwing the sliding door open with one hand. Afterwards, Sasuke rushed into his kitchen, confronting the mischievous outline of Neji, Tenten and Lee.
"Oh no! We've been spotted!" Lee shrieked, falling off a stool.
As Lee fell, he accidently pulled a bag of flour from the fridge, polluting the air with a white cloud. This flour stained the entire kitchen with a chalky mixture, obscuring Neji, Tenten and Lee under a white layer.
This created an awkward silence as Sasuke scratched the side of his head with confusion, glaring at his students. Each of these Genin were completely covered in flour, identified only by the color in their eyes.
"Great, just great." Neji spat out, wiping the filth from his face.
"What are you three doing in my house?" Sasuke spoke out.
Before Sasuke could receive a response, he glanced around the room, staring at a handful decorations and colorful signs. A massive cake then came into view, covered with crimson frosting and lined with black tomoe.
"Happy birthday! Sensei!" Tenten and Lee shouted in unison, followed by a scoff from Neji.
This declaration caused each of Sasuke's blue eyes to twitch, shocked that anyone even knew about his birthday. At the same time, Tenten shook her head from side-to-side, knocking the flour from her hair.
Without warning, Tenten reached out before grabbing Sasuke, pulling him in front of his cake. This icy combination of yeast and frosty was a ornate spectacle for Sasuke, a faint reminder of his mother.
This fancy cake was covered with crimson words on top, congratulating Sasuke on his 13th birthday. Also, a poorly-drawn Sharingan was painted beside his name, half complete and scribbled with haste.
"You came a little early, I thought we had more time." Tenten exclaimed.
"We swept the entire compound! And took out your trash!" Lee cut in, holding one finger in the air.
"I still think we should be training." Neji interrupted.
As this conversation developed, Lee jumped into the air while sweeping his legs to the side, creating a gust of wind. This gust blew away the remaining flour, allowing Neji and Tenten to finally breath.
Instead of responding with words, Sasuke grabbed his own face before sighing, pinching the bridge of his nose. While this occurred, a crow was resting atop an opened window.
"I got a better idea." Sasuke proclaimed, brushing his hair with one hand.
"Clean up this mess, and I'll take us all out for lunch." This statement earned a dramatic squeal from Lee, raising both fists in front of his face.
"Yes, alright! I'm ready to burst!" Lee declared.
For the first time since his promotion to a Chunin, a genuine smile was spread across Sasuke's face. Inspired by the antics of Lee, Tenten and Neji, a small bond that had only just begun.
Twenty minutes later.
The aroma of sautéed pork and chicken broth polluted the air, magnified by various pillars of steam. This food was freshly prepared inside Ichiraku's ramen shop, a delicacy from the village of Konoha.
"I haven't had ramen in months!" Tenten spoke out, seated on a wooden stool.
As Tenten spoke, Neji was sitting beside her, holding both hands in front of his face. Also, Sasuke and Lee were seated in the background, gathered in front of Ichiraku's stand.
"Nice of you to stop by! Dig in!" Teuchi proclaimed, revealing four bowls of steaming ramen.
After speaking, Teuchi was quickly answered by an ecstatic squeal from Lee, raising his chopsticks into the air. After licking his lips, Lee dived into his food with fanatic devotion, slurping the noodles.
As Lee devoured his food, Teuchi chuckled with joy while Tenten downcast her face, filled with embarrassment. At the same time, Neji pinched the bridge of his nose, releasing a faint sigh.
"I hate it when he acts like this." Tenten muttered.
"Lee's just expressing himself, nothing wrong with that." Sasuke replied with a slight grin.
"I'm just happy you all stopped by... Feels like forever since-..." Teuchi stuttered these words, scratching his head with hesitation
After Orochimaru's failed invasion, everyone noticed the abrupt change in the air, the sudden loss of Naruto. It was a realization that continued to weigh on Teuchi, filled with disbelief.
"Don't worry about it." Sasuke whispered, resting his face on one hand.
Before this conversation could progress, the sadistic laughter of Anko could be heard, permeating the air. Afterwards, Anko quickly strolled into view, holding her slim stomach with both hands.
"Instead of ramen, let's get Dango! Get me some Dango, Songo!" Anko chuckled. wrapping one arm around her childhood teammate.
Songo was once the loyal teacher of Kabuto, still depressed from his student's recent betrayal. Similar to Anko, Songo was 24 years old with fair skin, contrasting the Konoha Headband around his forehead.
Songo had ear-length brown hair and black eyes, partially concealed by the square glasses he wore. Also, Songo wore a long-sleeved blue sweater, held in place by his green flak jacket.
"You've been saying that for over ten years... It's still annoying." Songo protested.
As Songo spoke, Anko completely ignored him, focused on the white outline of Sasuke, eating his ramen. Inspired by her mischievous nature, Anko took several steps forward, wrapping one arm around Sasuke.
"Well, well... Looking a little pasty, kid." Anko giggled, rustling Sasuke's hair.
At this moment, the arguing voices of Sakon and Kidōmaru could be heard, walking into the ramen shop. These shinobi were each adorned with an ankle-length blue body suit, covered by a green flak jacket.
"You just don't know what you're talking about." Kidōmaru spat out, crossing all six of his arms together.
"Other than Kabuto, or Kimimaro... I was the highest ranking member of the Sound Four." Sakon protested.
While these brotherly teammates continued to argued, their Konoha Headbands came into view. These headbands denoted their status as Chunin of Konoha, freshly promoted with Anko's help.
"What are you two arguing about?" Neji grunted.
"Six arms doesn't know about the six forms of Sage Mode." Sakon scoffed.
"Idiot! There hasn't been a Butterfly Sage in over thirty years! There's only five Sage Modes!" Kidōmaru cut in.
These declaration's earned a hearty chuckle from Teuchi, walking into the back room before disappearing. This was followed by an exhaustive sigh from Songo, rubbing his eyes with both hands.
"What's Sage Mode?" Tenten asked.
This question was met by an abrupt gasp from Kidōmaru and Sakon, dropping their mouths with shock. Ignoring this, Lee was in his own world, slurping a mouthful of warm noodles.
"It's a special type of jutsu, used by the Sage of Six Paths." Sasuke muttered.
After hearing these words, Anko snorted in response, using both hands to mess with Sasuke's hair. This allowed Songo, Kidōmaru and Sakon to all find a stool, sitting beside Sasuke and his team.
"That's why pasty face is so white." Anko explained, poking Sasuke's cheek.
"Does that mean... Our sensei is a sage?" Tenten mumbled with a sheepish tone.
Suddenly, the youthful laugh of Sakon could be heard, followed by the reappearance of Teuchi. This elderly man walked forward before feeding Songo, Kidōmaru and Sakon, but Anko was still daydreaming about Dango.
"Yea, he's got Snake Senjutsu in his blood, that'll never go away." Kidōmaru exclaimed.
"That's why I have six arms, because my mother was a Spider Sage." As he spoke, Kidōmaru scratched the bridge of his nose.
Soon, Sakon briefly coughed before raising his right hand into the air, capturing everyone's attention. Except Lee who was eating, slurping his mouthful of food with each bite.
"Once your chakra network is exposed to Senjutsu, it changes everything." Sakon proclaimed, combing his blue hair with one hand.
"Kidōmaru isn't a real sage, but he inherited some Senjutsu from his mom. Kinda like a bloodline." After speaking, Sakon took several bites of food.
This revelation caused Neji to narrow both eyes, glancing at the white-skinned face of Sasuke. As this occurred, Lee finished his food before casually stealing Neji's bowl, devouring his ramen.
"So when pasty face pumps out a kid, they'll have white skin and snake eyes, just like him." Anko proclaimed, resting one arm atop Sasuke's head.
While Anko spoke, Sakon shrugged both shoulders with an innocent expression, releasing a slight grin. However, Sakon's face was partially obscured by his chin-length blue hair.
"But the point is, There's six Sage Modes, and Kidōmaru can't accept that." Sakon remarked.
"I've never met a Butterfly Sage that could actually survive." Kidōmaru protested.
"What about Kagerō? Her dad was a Butterfly Sage, that's why she looks so weird." Sakon argued.
This statement was answered by an exhaustive groan from Kidōmaru, rubbing his eyes with three hands. Also, Sasuke's blue eyes were hazy and blurred, as if he was a thousand miles away.
"That's exactly what I'm talking about." Kidōmaru spat out.
"Once you enter Butterfly Sage Mode, that's it. There's no coming back from that." While speaking, Kidōmaru crossed five arms in front of his chest.
"It's a Sage Mode unlike anything else, no one survives." After Kidōmaru spoke, the distinct crunch of potato chips could be heard.
At this moment, the smiling face of Choji came into view, strolling through the crowded streets of Konoha. With each step, Choji tossed a handful of potato chips into his mouth, walking towards the Hokage's office.
Five minutes later.
"Oh man, what a drag." Shikamaru muttered, holding the back of his head with both hands.
Shikamaru was standing in the Hokage's office, adorned with the iconic attire of a Chunin from Konoha. This outfit consisted of an ankle-length blue body suit, held in place by a green flak jacket.
"At least you got promoted..." Ino mumbled, standing in the background.
"It's such a drag though." Shikamaru spoke out, grabbing the Konoha Headband around his forehead.
As this conversation developed, the repetitive crunch of potato chips could be heard, drawing attention to Choji. Also, the bearded silhouette of Asuma was standing in the foreground.
"It's been decided, Kurenai is returning from a mission... Your team is going to rendezvous with her, and investigate Tani." Guy proclaimed.
This declaration was met by a quick nod from Asuma, grabbing several papers from Kakashi. At the same time, Shikamaru yawned with an exhausted tone, rubbing his eyes with one hand.
"You're sending two squads for a simply investigation?" Asuma stuttered, scratching his beard.
After Asuma spoke, Guy clasped both hands in front of his face, leaning against his wooden desk. Soon, Guy was glaring at Asuma with a stern face, creating an awkward silence.
"Make no mistake, this is an A-rank mission." Guy explained.
"You're primary goal is to meet the 5th Taikage… And offer him assistance." Kakashi cut in, shuffling a handful of papers.
"But... Secretly, we need you to investigate reports about the Akatsuki." As Kakashi spoke, the crunch of potato chips could be heard.
"You're not to confront the Akatsuki, under any circumstance. But you need to locate their hideout... And report back to us." These words were met by a quick nod from Asuma.
Instead of responding with words, Shikamaru released a dramatic sigh, muffled by Choji's loud eating. After several seconds, Ino poked her head into view, leaning over Shikamaru's shoulder.
"Akatsuki? What's that?" Ino questioned.
"You're squad leader has all the information you'll need." Kakashi groaned in response.
"Just go pack up some supplies, and meet at the western gate in thirty minutes." While speaking, Kakashi held a stack of papers.
After hearing these words, Shikamaru, Ino and Choji all dispersed, rushing home at a different pace. Because of this, Asuma, Kakashi and Guy were all left alone, sinking deep into conversation.
Six hours later.
The 27 year old silhouette of Kurenai came into view, standing in the center of a large grove. This brought attention to her shoulder-length black hair, rustling in a gentle breeze.
Suddenly, Kurenai narrowed each of her crimson red eyes before crouching down, entering a Taijutsu stance. Afterwards, Kiba and Hinata both charged out from the nearby forest, encircling Kurenai.
Utilizing her Jounin-level reflexes, Kurenai deflected each of the attacking Genin, knocking Kiba to the ground. But Hinata continued to advance, forcing her lavender eyes to bulge and widen, morphing into the Byakugan.
After missing several attacks, Hinata's hands became engulfed with an aura of blue chakra, causing her short hair to waver. At the same time, Akamaru rushed out from a bush, barking multiple times.
Surrounded, Kurenai rolled across the ground before jumping atop a distant tree branch, revealing the grin on her face. A swarm of buzzing beetles then erupted into view, rushing towards her.
This realization was met by a wide smile from Kurenai, clapping her bandaged hands together. This elite kunoichi then weaved through the Snake, Ram, Monkey, Boar, Horse and Tiger seals with Jounin-level speed.
These hand seals were quickly followed by a gust of chakra-filled flames, spewing out from Kurenai's mouth. This fiery cloud easily dispersed the approaching swarm, scorching thousands of beetles.
The cloaked silhouette of Shino then jumped into sight, partially obscured by the chin-length collar on his jacket. Also, Shino's pale face was illuminated by sunlight, forcing his black glasses to sparkle.
Before Shino could react, Kurenai appeared in front of him with a blur of speed, stunning her student. Without hesitation, Kurenai swept Shino off his feet, knocking him to the forest floor.
As Shino fell, Hinata slid forward before catching him at the last moment, releasing an exhaustive sigh. This sound was muffled by Akamaru's barking, drawing attention to the deep scowl across Kiba's face.
"Not bad, not bad... You three are really starting to improve." Kurenai proclaimed.
After speaking, Kurenai was interrupted by the iconic screech of a fire hawk, soaring through the tree line. Recognizing this sound, Kurenai focused on the graceful eagle, landing on her bandaged wrist.
Reaching out, Kurenai pulled an ornate letter from the hawk's back, held in place by a tiny satchel. Reading this letter, Kurenai narrowed both of her crimson eyes, humming with a faint groan.
"What is it, Sensei?" Hinata mumbled.
"Yea, is something wrong?" Kiba cut in, picking Akamaru up with both hands.
These questions were met by a brief grin from Kurenai, grabbing her petite waist with one hand. As this occurred, Hinata helped Shino stand up, allowing all three Genin to glance at their teacher.
"Good news, you're all getting an early class reunion." Kurenai explained.
At this moment, team 8 was completely eclipsed by dense clouds overhead, shrouding the entire forest with shadows. But Kurenai continued to smile, daydreaming about the bearded face of Asuma.
Meanwhile.
The heavy scuff of foot steps could be heard, dragging across a narrow dirt road, surrounded by rivers. These feet were attached to a limp corpse, carried by the grumbling outline of Kakuzu.
This corpse was a high-ranking Jounin from the village of Tani, kidnapped and murdered by Kakuzu. Because of their small size, Tani wasn't strong enough to confront the Akatsuki, forced to hide behind the walls of their village.
"Senpai... You can be really scary sometimes." Tobi mumbled, walking through the background.
"Stop calling me that." Kakuzu spat out.
Soon, a two-story building came into view, constructed with stone and rich timber, illuminated by nearby street lights. Despite their isolated surroundings, this building was a remote bounty-collector, Kakuzu's favorite store.
"This corpse should fetch a couple hundred Ryo." As Kakuzu spoke, he carried the dead Jounin with one hand.
This statement was met by a dramatic groan from Tobi, hanging his head with depression. After walking for several moments, Kakuzu led his partner inside, eager to collect some money.
"Senpai, don't you have enough money?" Tobi muttered, rubbing the back of his head.
After he spoke, Tobi was interrupted by an elderly man, standing behind a rustic and wooden counter. He had fair skin and ear-length black hair, contrasting his teal blue shirt and the brown pants he wore.
"Welcome back! It's my favorite customer!" The elderly man spoke out, 56 years old and known as Kukich.
Hearing these words, Kakuzu slammed the limp corpse atop Kukich's counter, knocking a vase over. Instead of reacting with rage, Kukich smiled from ear-to-ear, inspecting the cold shinobi.
"His condition is rather poor... I'd like his face to be recognizable." After speaking, Kukich earned a hostile grunt from Kakuzu.
"Just have my Ryo on the counter, before I leave." Kakuzu exclaimed.
Suddenly, Kakuzu and Tobi both turned around before walking towards the nearby wall, defined by an ornate closet. As they approached, the hinges on this closet fell loose, opening the door with a slight creak.
Ignoring Kukich's protests, Kakuzu and Tobi disappeared into the darkened closet, consumed by shadows. Before long, an unknown force abruptly closed the door, leaving Kukich alone with his thoughts.
Five minutes later.
A dense collection of shadows swirled into view, concealing everything with a blanket of darkness. Soon, the stone face of a massive statue protruded out from this abyss, obscured by a tattered blindfold.
"Oh no... Senpai! We're early!" Tobi squealed like a girl.
"Stop calling me that." Kakuzu grumbled.
This pair of rogue ninja were each seated atop a stone finger, jutting out from the dormant Gedo Mazo. Because of its size, the Gedo Mazo easily dwarfed Kakuzu and Tobi, barely contained in a small cave.
"Pfft… I won't make money if I just sit around." While complaining, Kakuzu crossed both arms in front of his chest.
Before speaking, Tobi shrugged both shoulders, raising his innocent hands into the air with a faint groan. During this moment of hesistation, Kakuzu closed his discolored eyes, enjoying the silence.
"The world doesn't revolve around money... Senpai." Tobi muttered with a hushed tone.
"What's the point of living if you don't have fun?!" As Tobi spoke, he stretched both arms through the air, creating a colorful rainbow.
"That's a luxury I can't afford." Kakuzu spat out.
"Unlike you, I don't hide behind a mask. I'm a wanted criminal, no one wants you." These words forced Tobi to faceplant the ground, crying like a school girl.
Suddenly, the entire cave was illuminated by a radiant silhouette, erupting into a purple haze. This distorted outline was standing atop a stone finger, overshadowed by the Gedo Mazo.
"Good, you're both here." A divine voice spoke out.
These words were quickly followed by several other shadows, surrounding the Gedo Mazo from all angles. Each of these silhouette's were defined by the crimson cloud on their attire.
"Tch! I'm getting restless! Give me something to do!" Deidara protested, raising his transparent hand into view.
The mischievous laughter of Kisame then echoed through the cave, drawing attention to his hazy face. Also, Itachi's projection was standing in the background, staring at the wall with a far-off expression.
"I haven't found any decent material in weeks." Sasori exclaimed, twirling his translucent hair with one finger.
"If you want something to do, listen up." A feminine voice could be heard, radiating out from Konan.
Konan was a 32 year old woman with pale skin and chin-length lavender hair, held in place by a blue flower. Despite her age, Konan was the shortest and smallest member of the Akatsuki.
Because of her petite figure, Konan was obscured by her knee-length Akatsuki cloak, swallowing both arms. This brought attention to her ocean blue pants, contrasting the white high heels that she wore.
"In the Land of Wind, far to the south, there's a certain rock I'm interested in." As Konan spoke, her labret piercing was revealed.
"By rock, you mean the Stone of Gelel… Right?" Sasori chuckled.
This statement forced each of Kakuzu's discolored eyes to bulge, followed by a groan of disbelief. At the same time, Tobi dramatically squealed like a child, waving both arms through the air.
"The Stone of Gelel!? You could buy an entire nation with just one peddle of that!" Kakuzu stuttered.
"I don't want to sell it, my reasons are my own." Konan proclaimed with a hushed tone.
"Since you're from the Land of Wind, and you spent years searching for immortality, you know best." These words earned a genuine smile from Sasori.
"Thanks... I appreciate the confidence." Sasori spoke with sincerity.
"We didn't come here for rocks." The distinct voice of Pain could be heard, protesting.
Pain's transparent face was illuminated by his violet Rinnegan eyes, the same eyes as Naruto. Also, Pain's distorted face was covered with various piercings and rods.
"Well... My interest has already peaked... I wanna see what this stone is made of." Deidara mumbled.
"What about the six tails?" Itachi cut in, capturing everyone's attention.
After hearing these words, Pain narrowed each of his violet eyes, drawing attention to his spiky hair. As this occurred, Tobi was causally scratching his stomach in the background.
"You will break him." Pain declared, drifting from view.
Meanwhile.
"Oh man... This is the worst thing that could possibly happen!" Choji shrieked, crouched atop a dirt road.
This young Genin was nestled in front of a small pile of potato chips, the victim of a busted bag. This display of wasted food was a heart breaking image for Choji, forcing tears to swell under both eyes.
Suddenly, the bandaged legs of Ino came into view, matching the white arm-warmers that she wore. However, these pieces of fabric deeply contrasted Ino's teal blue eyes, drawing attention to her pale skin.
"Such a drag..." Shikamaru interrupted, holding his head with both hands.
As his students were gathered together, Asuma was standing in the foreground, exhaling smoke into the air. This smoke partially obscured the wide grin across Asuma's face, covered with a dense beard.
"Don't worry, Kurenai is just up the road." Asuma explained.
These words earned a chorus of giggles from Ino, turning around before running down the road. At the same time, Choji was picking up his trash, still devastated from his wasted food.
"Last one there is a rotten egg!" Ino cheered, waving her right hand through the air.
This statement was met by an exhausted sigh from Shikamaru, pinching the bridge of his nose. Because of this, the grin across Asuma's face abruptly bloomed into a deep laugh.
"You two can go on ahead, we'll catch up." Asuma proclaimed, helping Choji with his trash.
After nodding with agreement, Shikamaru leisurely strolled down the road, glancing at the blue sky overhead. During this, Asuma took a final drag from his cigarette before rubbing it against the ground.
Scooping up a handful of dirty potato chips, Choji dumped them into his broken bag, spilling them for a second time. This allowed Asuma to notice several beads of sweat across Choji's face, and his bandaged hands.
"Sorry, I'm just a little nervous." Choji mumbled with a downcast face.
"This is my first mission since-..." While stuttering, Choji clenched both fists.
Over the past several weeks, Choji could feel the sudden shift in the air, the end of an era, and his childhood. With Shikamaru's promotion and Naruto's defection, Choji felt nostalgic for his youth.
Choji was always self-conscious about his skill as a shinobi, he always felt stuck in the shadows of Naruto and Shikamaru. Shadows that grew bolder with each day, eclipsing the young Akimichi clan member.
At this moment, Choji was pulled from these thoughts after Asuma reached out and grabbed his left shoulder. This completely garnished Choji's attention, glancing over his shoulder, directly into Asuma's brown eyes.
"Everyone can see the shinobi inside of you." Asuma declared.
"I can see it, Shikamaru can see it, even Ino see's it... But, you need to see it for yourself." As he spoke, Asuma narrowed both eyes.
Without saying a word, Asuma stood up before walking away, carrying a handful of trash in both arms. While this occurred, Choji glared at his teacher with a far-off expression, causing his mouth to fall open.
The transparent outline of a blue butterfly then floated into view, drifting through the air for several moments. Exposing a radiant aura of blue, this butterfly eventually landed atop Choji's nose, emboldened by rays of sunlight.
Meanwhile.
The sound of rain striking metal could be heard, polluting the air before lightning surged across the sky. This downfall of rain created a steady drizzle, bombarding the crowded streets below.
This depiction of commerce was a common sight inside the village of Ame, a highly industrialized settlement. Nestled inside the Land of Rain, Ame was constantly soaked, dripping water from every house, tower and sidewalk.
Timber would easily rot under the constant rain, forcing citizens of Ame to live inside metal houses. Because of this harsh rain, Ame was a man-made island of steel and iron, built in the center of a vast lake.
"Aoi should've returned by now." Konan mumbled, holding one hand in front of her bulging chest.
Konan's fingernails were each painted with a bright shade of orange, contrasting her pale hands. Konan's most prominent feature was the white Akatsuki ring on her right middle finger, adorned with the Kanji for 'white'.
As Konan spoke, she stood underneath a steel awning, shielding her from the rain and cold weather. Her words then brought attention to the soaked outline of Pain, casually seated in the rain.
Undaunted by the dripping water from his hair, Pain was hypnotized by the village of Ame, focused on the lake-filled horizon. After several moments, various arcs of lightning rushed through the cloudy sky.
These flashing lights illuminated Pain's entire face, covered with chakra rods and piercings, jutting out in all directions. Also, Pain had ear-length spiky orange hair, contrasting his discolored and pale skin, the skin of a dead man.
Soon, Pain's red nails came into view, matching the crimson clouds on his Akatsuki cloak, soaked with rain. Pain's most prominent feature was the purple Akatsuki ring around his right thumb, adorned with the Kanji for 'zero'.
"It doesn't matter... I don't need him." Pain remarked.
While speaking, rain continued to drip from Pain's hair, staining the Ame Headband around his forehead. However, the iconic symbol of Ame was damaged by a horizontal slash, carved into the metal surface.
Despite his elderly appearance, Pain was barely 15 years old, but his body was as cold as death. Infact, Pain didn't even breath, he was just a walking corpse, empowered by his Rinnegan eyes.
Suddenly, the distinct sound of foot steps could be heard, forcing Konan to glance over her petite shoulder. This revealed the masked shadow of Tobi, defined by his three tomoe Sharigan.
"Soon, very soon... Our dream will be achieved." Tobi exclaimed with a deep voice, a voice that wasn't his own.
"Yes, with the capture of the six tails... Only five tailed beasts will remain." Pain replied.
"Kakuzu and I will handle the eight tails, if I find enough money to inspire the brute." Tobi hummed.
"But, you'll have to deal with the remaining jinchūriki by yourself... The final stage is almost here." As Tobi spoke, he walked into the rain, towering over Pain.
"I understand." Pain muttered in response, distracted by intense drizzle.
These words were swiftly followed by an erupting chorus of thunder, sprawled across the cloudy sky. After years of planning, the Akatsuki finally found their moment, the time to strike.