The Pantheon of Nine
By: Finn Mertenz
A/N: kidexx - Just because Hashirama and Tobirama are barely mentioned in part 1, that doesn't make Naruto Shippuden valid. My primary source for Hashirama and Tobirama comes from their canon battle with Hiruzen.
In the original Orochimaru VS Hiruzen battle, Orochimaru didn't have his Shippuden handicap. In Shippuden, Kishimoto retconned the Edo Tensei, claiming Orochimaru didn't master it.
Tobirama invented the Edo Tensei, but he could never utilize in combat, Orochimaru was the first one. Before the whole *one thousand Edo Tensei gag* in Shippuden, Orochimaru's Edo Tensei already had infinite chakra, he didn't have that handicap in part 1.
While some people may claim Naruto Shippuden is a continuation of Naruto part 1, I'm not one of those people. When Kishimoto inserts a piece of lore (Shippuden) that conflicts with pre-existing canon (part 1) then part 1 takes priority.
Hiruzen Sarutobi isn't a normal Shinobi, in part 1, he was hyped up as a literal god, vs EMS or not. Then Naruto Shippuden happened, and no one even talked about him or mentioned his name until the 4th Shinobi world war.
In regards to Hashirama using Sage Mode, in part 1, he never displays Sage Mode. Most of the points your making are pulled cutscenes/abilities/dialogue from Naruto Shippuden.
Kishimoto never explains why Hashirama had Sage Mode (like Minato), there is no reason why. Kishimoto just pulled this stuff out of his ass, cheapening the story that part 1 established.
Hashirama isn't using Toad Sage Mode or Snake Sage Mode (the only two canon Sage Modes) - so what kind of a Sage is he? I've searched reddit, the forums and google, I can't confirm what Sage Mode Hashirama was using, no one can.
Overall, this argument comes down to one defining point, does Part 1 take priority or Shippuden. If you value Shippuden, that's perfectly fine, I respect your opinion, but I value Part 1.
In regards to this chapter - Sakaku is an OC. Nothing about him is canon or confirmed by Kishimoto, he only exists in my head. I generally hate OC, but, Sakaku is a necessary character to improve the backstory.
Disclaimer: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO. I DO NOT CLAIM TO OWN NARUTO.
Chapter 104: One Hundred Years Of War! The Birth Of A Legend.
Wednesday 8:49pm, August 22nd 167WSP.
The distinct sound of crackling fire could be heard, fueled by a bundle of wooden twigs and sticks. This fire was positioned in the center of a small grove, surrounded by trees on all sides.
Soon, this fire was completely muffled by the hungry groans of a starving child, curled up next to the heat. This boy was 6 years old with tan skin and emerald green eyes, contrasting the tattered shirt and pants he wore.
The cheerful laugh of an 8 year old boy then rippled through the air, dashing out from a nearby bush. Holding a coin-filled linen bag, this boy casually ran in front of the fire before sitting down.
"Look what I found, Kakuzu!" The 8 year old boy spoke out, reaching into his bag.
Pulling dozens of copper Ryo into view, the sight of sparkling metal easily captured Kakuzu's attention, sitting up. An orphan from war, Kakuzu traveled the country-side with his older brother, Sakaku.
"Money? That won't help..." Kakuzu mumbled, scratching his ear-length brown hair.
Hearing these words, Sakaku dramatically gasped, grabbing each of Kakuzu's shoulder before shaking him. Because of this, a handful of Ryo fell to the ground, stained with dirt.
"What are you saying?!" Sakaku protested, drawing attention to his chin-length brown hair.
Similar to Kakuzu, Sakaku wore a torn brown shirt and tattered pants, matching his dirt-stained skin. Also, Sakaku had a handful of dirty bandages around both wrists, contrasting his black eyes.
"With this money, we can buy food! Clothes! Even a house!" While speaking, Sakaku's eyes morphed into golden Ryo.
"But why is money so important? Where does it come from?" Kakuzu mumbled.
This question earned a vicious head rub in response, followed by the booming laughter of Sakaku. At the same time, a shooting star discretely surged across the night sky, illuminating the entire forest.
"Money grows on trees! Don't cha know?!" Sakaku chuckled.
Taking several moments to respond, Kakuzu released a deep hum, distracted by the sparkling stars overhead. Also, the faint sound of a screeching owl could be heard, polluting the background.
"But I don't understand... Why is money so important? Who decided that?" Kakuzu stuttered.
"You're over thinking it." Sakaku sighed, shrugging both shoulders.
Ignoring these words, Kakuzu narrowed each of his emerald eyes, glaring up at the twinkling night sky. This revelation created a genuine smile across Sakaku's face, empowered by his younger brother.
Two years later.
"Kakuzu, hurry up! You're falling behind!" Sakaku shouted out.
This pair of young brothers were climbing a steep cliffside, running from a cloud of smoke on the horizon. Despite their young age, these brothers were born in the age of war, they didn't have the luxury of a childhood.
"I know! I'm trying!" Kakuzu protested, gripping a nearby rock.
Suddenly, the entire cliff began to quake, knocking Kakuzu loose before Sakaku grabbed him at the last moment. This intense quaking was soon magnified by a geyser of chakra-filled flames, spewing into existence.
Pulling his brother to safety, Kakuzu and Sakaku both crouched down, crawling behind a bush before hiding. These brothers then poked their eyes into view, glancing from side-to-side.
"What's happening?!" Kakuzu whispered, quietly nudged by his brother.
Without warning, a harsh display of sparks could been seen, muffled by the sound of metal striking metal. Also, a blurred mixture of crimson red and navy blue was surging across the ground.
A pair of shinobi sandals then landed atop the earth, creating a faint cloud of dust and dirt. These feet belonged to Butsuma Senju, a 31 year old man, the head of the Senju Clan.
Butsuma was a tall man with sunbaked skin and black eyes, matching his shoulder-length black hair. Because of its length, Butsuma's hair was held in place by a leaf-green sash, wrapped around his forehead.
Butsuma's most prominent feature was the crimson red samurai armor that he wore, covering his chest and shoulders. Also, the iconic Senju symbol was carved across this armor, engraved into both shoulder-plates.
Underneath this armor, Butsuma wore a full-bodied black suit, covering the endless collection of scars across his body. Finally, he held a crimson-red hilt in both hands, attached to an ancient and worn blade.
Stained with chips, jagged marks and dull edges, this sword was an heirloom of the Senju Clan, past down from father to son. This brought attention to the red sheath against Butsuma's back, strapped in a slanted angle.
"Are they shinobi!? They're moving so fast, I can't even follow them!" Sakaku muttered to himself.
After hearing these words, Kakuzu glanced to the side, focusing on the blue outline of a veteran shinobi. This silhouette belonged to a 31 year old Taijima Uchiha, the head of the Uchiha Clan.
Defining his status as an elite Uchiha, Taijima possessed a pair of three tomoe Sharingan. The crimson red from these eyes deeply contrasted Taijima's sunbaked skin, and the stern expression on his face.
Taijima had chin-length black hair that partially concealed both eyes from view, but the back was completely shaved. This hair matched Taijima's ankle-length tunic in tone and color.
Taijima's tunic had a raised collar, hiding a deep scar across his chin and neck, the result of endless war. Because of this constant battle, Taijima wore a blue-armored breastplate across his chest.
Also, several scraps of armor plating were wrapped around Taijima's ankles, matching the blue sheath on his back. However, this sheath was empty, illuminating the blue-hilt in Taijima's hand.
"Who are they...?" Kakuzu asked, earning an innocent shrug in response.
Instead of speaking, Taijima and Butsuma both narrowed their eyes, raising their weapons towards each other. Without hesitation, Butsuma and Taijima each preformed the Seal of Confrontation, an honorary sign of combat.
At this moment, the entire mountain side began to shake, forcing small pebbles to vibrate and roll. A screaming chorus then echoed through the air, muffled by the collective sound of charging feet.
Dozens of Senju and Uchiha clan members then ruptured into view, surging across the dirt-filled ground. Several of these shinobi were holding swords, while others weaved through hand seals.
A chakra-filled collision of flames and water abruptly clashed, spewing embers and rain in all directions. The shockwave from this collision forced Kakuzu to stagger backwards, tripping over a twig.
"Look out!" Sakaku panicked, pushing his brother to the ground.
Taking his brothers place, the ground below Sakaku was crushed under the weight of a fireball, dislodged from the nearby battle. This triggered a steep avalanche, pulling Sakaku to the cliffside.
"Brother!" Kakuzu shrieked, standing up and charging after Sakaku.
Running beside the rushing avalanche, Kakuzu leapt forward while reaching out with his left hand. Grabbing his brother at the last moment, Kakuzu struggled to pull him to safety.
"I got you!" As Kakuzu spoke, his brother was hanging off the edge of a cliff.
Glancing from side-to-side, Sakaku searched for a way up, but Kakuzu was slowly losing his grip. At the same time, the sounds of battle grew more fierce and violent, cracking the distant earth.
Ignoring the stark revelation in his mind, a genuine smile quickly spread across Sakaku's face, glancing up at his brother. Sakaku then reached into his tattered pants, pulling a bag of Ryo loose.
"Take this, it's all the money we've collected." Sakaku spoke out, shoving the Ryo into Kakuzu's hand.
Shaking his head in protest, Kakuzu tried to pull his brother up, but the cliffside began to collapse. Forcing Kakuzu to sniffle and cry, while Sakaku continued to smile at his brother.
"Money, Kakuzu… Money is the most important thing, remember that." While speaking, Sakaku barely clung to his brother.
"With money, you can buy a peaceful life, the life we never had." These words were muffled by a crying Kakuzu.
"Some day... You might even become a hero." Losing his grip, Sakaku fell from his brother's grace.
With tears streaming from his eyes, Kakuzu dropped his bag of Ryo before leaning over the cliffside. Gazing down below, Kakuzu watched as his older brother plummeted into the shadows, falling to his death.
"BROTHER!" Kakuzu's 8 year old voice could be heard, shrieking with panic before he finally woke up.
Eighty years later.
Sitting up with hasty breath, Kakuzu was resting against an elderly oak tree, shrouded by dense branches. After panting for several moments, Kakuzu rubbed the side of his head, shaking the thoughts from his mind.
Suddenly, Tobi's butt came into view, shaking and waving through the background, singing under his breath. Hearing these words, Kakuzu mumbled in response before throwing a peddle at Tobi.
As this rock approached, it casually phased through Tobi's skull, striking a hollow tree in front of him. Smacking his butt, Tobi jumped around before extending both arms into the air, cheering for his teammate.
"Senpai!" Tobi jumped for joy.
Earning a harsh groan from Kakuzu, Tobi repetitively clapped both hands together, acting like a cheerleader. Ignoring this, Kakuzu eventually stood up before brushing the dirt from his outfit.
The distinct sound of chirping birds then polluted the air, magnified by rays of sunlight, piercing the branches overhead. The sun was just beginning to rise, signaling a new day for Kakuzu, and the Akatsuki as a whole.
Meanwhile.
"I don't think that's safe to eat." Shikamaru exclaimed, hold his head with both hands.
The Genin for team Asuma and Kurenai were both assembled along a narrow road way, paved with aged stone. Choji, Ino and Kiba were all inspecting a nearby bush, filled with dozens of colorful berries.
While these Genin stood together, Asuma and Kurenai were standing in the background, talking to a farmer. Because of this, Asuma and Kurenai didn't even notice when Kiba and Ino reached out, grabbing a handful of berries.
"Um... Kiba... Was that really a good idea?" Hinata mumbled, twirling her fingers together.
"No, no it wasn't." Shino cut in, concealed by the raised collar on his jacket.
Grabbing her bandaged waist with both hands, Ino scoffed in response, wrinkling her pale nose. Also, Akamaru leisurely barked in response, forcing Kiba to pick him up with both hands.
"You're just overreacting, they taste really good." Ino remarked, grabbing another handful.
"Did you want some?" Kiba interrupted, offering several berries to Choji.
"Nah, I'll stick with my chips... But thank you." Choji replied, opening his bag of potato chips.
Before this conversation could progress, Kurenai and Asuma both approached their students, standing between them. This forced Kiba and Ino to hastily devour their food, concealing it from view.
"Let's quit wasting daylight... We're closer than you think." Asuma proclaimed, lighting a fresh cigarette.
The smoke from this cigarette created a dense pillar that concealed everything from view, dissolved under a gust of wind.
Five minutes later.
Sparkling water was cascading down a narrow river, occasionally disrupted by a jumping fish. Soon, dozens of pristine rivers came into view, sprinkled across a lush plain of grass.
Enshrouded by a bundle of trees, Asuma and Kurenai led their teams along the river, twinkling like a star under sunlight. During this journey, the only sound that could be heard was Choji, munching on potato chips.
"So where's Tani at? I don't see anything." Kiba questioned, crossing both arms in front of his chest.
As Kiba spoke, Hinata was walking behind him, tapping her fingers together with a nervous manner. After briefly hesitating, Hinata's white eyes instantly morphed into lavender, empowered by her bugling veins.
This swell of chakra allowed Hinata's Byakugan eyes to rupture into view, matching her pale-skinned face. Because of these eyes, Hinata could effortlessly glare through solid stone, or even the ground itself.
This improved eyesight forced Hinata to quietly gasp, holding one hand over her small mouth. Also, Hinata froze mid step, inspiring Shino and Kiba to glance over their shoulders,
"I don't see anything." Ino complained, stomping her right foot with rage.
Obliviously to her surroundings, Ino accidently sunk into a waist-deep puddle, screaming like a school girl. These screams were met by an exhaustive sigh from Shikamaru, pinching the bridge of his nose.
Licking the crumbs from his fingers, Choji reached out, offering a helpful hand to Ino, struggling in the water. However, instead of taking Choji's hand, Ino gagged with disgust.
"She's a handful, isn't she?" Kurenai scoffed, bumping against Asuma.
Smirking from ear-to-ear, Asuma took a drag from his cigarette before exhaling smoke into the air. Afterwards, Kurenai and Asuma abruptly entered a Taijutsu stance, confusing each of their students.
Suddenly, a beetle casually landed atop Shino's collar while Kiba's nose began to twitch, sniffing the air. The sound of rumbling thunder then echoed across the skyline, eventually polluted with dark clouds.
"This level of chakra..." Mouthing these words, Kurenai and Asuma stood back to back.
"I know... It's Kage-level." Asuma muttered in response, spiting his cigarette out.
At this moment, a barrage of lightning erupted from the clouds overhead, scorching a crater into the ground. Arcing across the forest in all directions, this impact was magnified by an electric shockwave.
As this surge of chakra rippled through the trees, Kurenai's loose hair began to violently rustle. Also, Ino finally managed to free herself from the pond, kicking her wet sandals off.
After several moments, the previous barrage of lightning fully dissipated, revealing a cloaked silhouette. This shadow belonged to a middle-aged man with sunbaked skin, hidden behind his teal blue robes.
Coming into view, various arcs of lightning occasionally surged across this unknown man, illuminating his attire. He wore the iconic teal blue outfit of the 5th Taikage, embellished with the kanji for 'five' across his back.
"You've entered the village of Tani. My village." The harsh voice of Raiga Kurosuki could be heard.
Despite his previous status as a rogue ninja, Raiga now wore the garb of a fabled shinobi, protecting the Land of Rivers. Raiga's most prominent feature were the twin blades of Kiba, held in both hands.
Prepared for battle, Asuma gasped after recognizing Raiga's outfit, filling him with ease. At the same time, Ino was seated in the background, struggling to dry her sandals.
"Oh? Shinobi from Konoha?" As Raiga spoke, he sheathed both of his sacred blades.
Pulling an envelop loose, Asuma walked forward before handing it to Raiga, earning a quick nod in response. While this occurred, Akamaru slowly walked into view, sniffing Raiga's feet.
"If you don't mind me asking, what happened to the 4th Taikage?" Asuma asked.
Instead of responding, Raiga turned around before walking through dense foliage, encouraging Asuma to follow. Leading his students, Asuma disappeared from sight, trailing after the 5th Taikage.
five minutes later.
Asuma and Kurenai both trailed behind Raiga, walking down a narrow dirt road, encompassed by rivers. Also, each of their Genin were walking through the background, illuminated by sunlight.
As this group continued to walk in silence, Kurenai briefly glanced at Asuma, allowing their eyes to meet. During this, the iconic crunch of potato chips could be heard, drawing attention to Choji.
"So... What type of assistance did you need?" Kurenai spoke out.
This question created an awkward silence as Raiga continued to escort his visitors, approaching a narrow gorge. Approaching this weathered rock, Raiga encouraged everyone to follow, squeezing through the crevasse.
After struggling for several minutes, team Asuma and Kurenai finally managed to enter the gorge. This realization caused each of the Genin to gasp, gazing down upon the sparkling village of Tani.
Tani was nestled in the center of a large gorge, encircled by dense rock and natural walls on all sides. Because of its natural position, several dozen rivers all ran into Tani's gorge, creating an endless stream of water from above.
This water was used to power dozens of mills and warehouses, the life-blood for Tani and their economy. Fueled by this constant surge of running water, Tani was built atop a massive revoir, a man-made lake.
Despite their isolated society, Tani used this massive lake to travel and trade across their village. Tani was extremely dependent on their river-side lifestyle, sustained by the endless water.
"The 4th Taikage was a coward, and a traitor." Raiga spat out.
"I killed him." After hearing these words, Asuma and Kurenai both glanced at each other.
Suddenly, a group of children ran into sight, led by the crimson-eyed silhouette of Ranmaru, defined by his Ketsuryūgan. These eyes irradiated a crimson red aura, polluting the air around Ranmaru's face.
"Uh...?!" Hinata mumbled to herself, accidently glancing at Ranmaru's Ketsuryūgan.
As Ranmaru approached, he was surrounded by a small horde of orphans, a brutal reality for all shinobi. However, these children were smiling with genuine joy, undaunted by their circumstances in life.
"I got the whole class together! I'm gonna teach them some hand seals!" Ranmaru cheered.
These words forced Raiga's personality to abruptly shift, instantly becoming kind and nurturing. This dramatic shift created a sincere smile across Raiga's face, crouching down beside Ranmaru.
"That's an excellent idea, Ranmaru! You're such a good boy!" Raiga chuckled, patting Ranmaru on his head.
After hearing this compliment, Ranmaru giggle before glancing between Ino and Hinata, focused on their Konoha Headbands. Ranmaru then tilted his head to the side, hiding behind Raiga.
Without saying a word, Ranmaru quietly stared at Hinata and Ino, forcing the latter to snarl in protest. After wrinkling his nose, Ranmaru hummed with confusing, earning a hostile snort from Ino.
"What are you looking at!?" Ino threatened, flexing her right arm.
"You're from Konoha, just like the last girl... But compared to her, you're both really ugly." As Ranmaru spoke, his words forced Hinata and Ino to faceplant the ground.
This statement caused Raiga's smile to evolve into an ear-booming laugh, stretching across the lake of Tani. As this occurred, Shikamaru yawned into both hands before grabbing his head.
"Wait a second, compared to who?" Kiba asked, magnified by a single bark from Akamaru.
"Compared to Sakura!" Ranmaru stuck his tongue out, capturing everyone's attention.
"Wait... What?!" Ino stuttered, jumping to her feet.
"Pinky came through here?!" As she spoke, Ino held both hands in front of her flat chest.
"She traveled west a couple weeks ago. She's probably in the Land of Wind by now." Raiga cut in.
After speaking, Raiga pulled his Kage hat loose, exposing his waist-length dark green hair, framing each side of his face. This iconic hat was then draped across Raiga's back, hanging from his shoulders.
Gasping, Ino rushed forward before poking Raiga's stomach, forcing Shikamaru to faceplant his own hand. Also, Choji was eating a bag of potato chips in the background, undisturbed by his surroundings.
"How is she? Is she eating well? Did she get a hair cut?" Repeating these words, Ino continued to poke Raiga.
Humming in response, Raiga used one hand to grab his rigid jawline, glancing at a pair of fishermen. At the same time, Hinata slowly climbed to her feet, still embarrassed from Ranmaru's words.
"She's become a fine Kunoichi." Raiga declared.
"Hah! Fat chance!" Ino snorted.
"No one is ever going to take her seriously! Pinky just needs to come home already." After speaking, Ino abruptly sneezed.
Leaning forward, Raiga allowed his stern face to bare down upon Ino, forcing her to sweat while twitching. Before long, this nervous Kunoichi was partially concealed by a puff of smoke, exhaled by Asuma.
"She was able to defeat me in battle, can you say the same?" Raiga muttered, pushing Ino to the ground.
Stuttering in protest, Ino was briefly stunned by Raiga's revelation, inspiring her to downcast her face. However, Ino was quickly pulled from her thoughts by Asuma, gently patting her head.
"Looks like your friend is growing up, Ino... Maybe you should too." Asuma chuckled.
Instead of responding, Ino sunk even lower to the ground, focused on the transparent image of Sakura. So much had changed over the past few weeks, without Sakura, Ino felt lost.
Has she really grown that much? Ino asked herself.
Utilizing this moment of silence, Ranmaru waved goodbye to Raiga before escorting his students down the street. Even though he was just 6 years old, Ranmaru was already teaching the next generation of shinobi.
Under the 4th Taikage, Tani endured a brutal period of mismanagement for over two decades, draining their treasury. Infact, the 4th Taikage personally welcomed the Akatsuki with open arms, allowing them to hide in his nation.
This dependence on the Akatsuki created a divisive gap between the 4th Taikage and his Shinobi. Instead of banding together and saving his people, disloyal Shinobi were sacrificed to the Akatsuki.
Because of his extensive reign, the 4th Taikage effectively crippled Tani's military, unable to defend their own borders. But Raiga changed everything after his exodus from Katabami Gold Mine.
Modeling himself after Zabuza, Raiga found a new home, protecting the same nation that he used to terrorize and mock. He challenged the 4th Taikage and struck him down in honorable combat, earning the Kage title.
"Let's get down to business." Raiga scoffed, crossing both arms in front of his chest.
"The Akatsuki are a blight on my land, but I don't have enough shinobi to remove them." As Raiga spoke, several boats were drifting through the background.
"You're going to help me. In exchange, Tani with officially end its neutrality, and pledge our support to Konoha." Hearing these words, Asuma and Kurenai briefly glanced at each other.
"We're supposed to assist you, but... We can't confront the Akatsuki." Asuma exclaimed.
"Good, I need assistance with the Akatsuki." Raiga spat out.
Suddenly, Kiba and Ino both erupted into a harsh fit of coughs, falling to the ground with a heavy thud. This realization sent Asuma and Kurenai into a wave of panic, rushing towards their students.
"What's wrong? What's happening?" Kurenai questioned, pressing her hand against Kiba's warm face.
"Oh no... Do you think it's the berries?" Hinata mumbled, muffled by a barking Akamaru.
Inspired by these words, Raiga's pale blue eyes began to bulge and widen, magnified by his gasping mouth. Also, a speechless Choji dropped his potato chips to the ground, glaring at Ino's fevered face.
"You fools! Did you eat the wild berries?! They're poisonous!" Raiga shrieked.
Without hesitation, Raiga reached out before grabbing the collar of Choji's shirt, pulling him close. This confrontation was partially muffled by the rapid coughs of Kiba and Ino, panting for air.
"Go get Ranmaru, quickly!" Shouting these words, Choji ran through the foreground, obscuring everything from view.
Thirty minutes later.
The distinct sound of a rotating clock could be heard, dampened by the harsh breathing of Ino and Kiba. These Genin was resting atop a wooden floor, individually wrapped under a layer of blankets.
"I can't believe they ate so many berries... That was a bad idea." Ranmaru exclaimed, squeezing a wet rag with both hands.
As Ranmaru spoke, Choji was sitting behind him, holding his last unopened bag of potato chips. Choji and Ranmaru were completely isolated in the large room, accompanied only by Kiba, Ino and Akamaru.
This room was attached to an ornate Buddhist shrine, erected in the center of Tani and encompassed by sparkling rivers. Unwilling to wait, Raiga personally left Tani to confront the Akatsuki, inspiring Asuma and Kurenai to follow.
Hoping to gain the upper hand, Shikamaru, Hinata and Shino all traveled with their teachers, leaving Choji behind. Usually, Choji would eat his problems away, but he couldn't eat away his anxiety.
Despite all his effort, Choji had nothing to show for it, he was just dead weight, constantly dragging his friends down. Choji dreamed of being a great shinobi, like his father, but he wasn't skilled enough.
Torn from these thoughts, Ranmaru casually nudged Choji on his shoulder, capturing his attention. Displaying a genuine smile, Ranmaru encouraged Choji to take a nap, earning a nod of approval.
Without saying a word, Choji crawled towards a wooden wall before laying down, curled up in a dense ball. Glancing between Kiba and Ino with hesitation, Choji eventually closed both eyes, drifting into sleep.
-Dreamworld-
Rays of sunlight sparkled down between an array of tree branches, magnified by the chirping of birds. The bulking silhouette of a 32 year old Choza Akimichi then came into view.
Choza wore a knee-length blue Kimono, held in place by a green sash around his waist, contrasting his blue pants. This brought attention to the white headband across Choza's face, matching his pale skin.
Choza's most prominent feature were the purple markings across his pale-skinned face, jutting out from his nose. These markings were partially concealed by Choza's chin-length spiky red hair.
"Uh-... Um..." A 6 year old Choji mumbled to himself.
"The Akimichi symbol... It's on the far right...?" As Choji spoke, he was sitting atop Choza's shoulders
Choji wore a similar outfit to his father, blue shirts with a pair of black shorts, contrasting his fair skin. Also, Choji's ear-length spiky brown hair was exposed, revealing the distinct red swirls across his face.
"That's right... Next to the Yamanaka and Nara symbols." Choza replied.
This father and son were standing in front of the iconic Ino-Shika-Cho monument, nestled in the forest of Konoha. This monument was adorned with all three clan symbols, and the names of their fallen shinobi.
"Our clans have bled together for over fifteen generations... Since the foundation of Konoha." While speaking, Choza's face was briefly shrouded by clouds.
"The Ino-Shika-Cho alliance is well known, we have a special bond." These words earned an inquisitive hum from Choji.
Suddenly, Choji reached out before grabbing Choza's right ear, tugging on the metal ear-ring that he wore. These rings were a sacred heirloom among the Ino-Shika-Cho alliance, created by the 1st Hokage himself.
Forging three pairs of ancient rings, Hashirama gifted these objects to the 1st generation of the Ino-Shika-Cho. Since then, these rings were continuously handed down to the next generation, an unbroken line of succession.
"You mean this thing right here? The other clan heads wear them too." Choji muttered, poking his father's ear.
"Mhm... The ear is pierced to symbolize a deep bond between our clans." Choza remarked.
"Once the next generation attains the rank of Genin, the rings are handed down. A symbolic passing of the torch." This statement forced Choji to stare at the ground.
"I don't like pain..." Choji whispered with a faint tone.
Choji wasn't a violent child, he was innocent, quiet and he usually just kept to himself. Choji didn't want to fight or to risk his life in the line of battle, but more than that, Choji didn't want to disappoint his father.
Six years later.
Faint rays of the setting sun quickly blistered into view, illuminating the entire village of Konoha. Before long, the pale hand of a 38 year old Choza came into view, grabbing a freshly made rice ball.
Unwrapping this food, Choza took several bites while grumbling under his breath, drawing attention to Asuma. This elite Jounin was sitting on the wooden deck of Choza's house, smoking a cigarette with one hand.
As these Shinobi sat beside each other, Choji was crouched over a distant caterpillar in the background. This insect was devouring a lush green leaf, earning a genuine smile from Choji.
"Since the nine tails left... He hasn't been the same." Choza proclaimed, stuffing his face with food.
"Yea... I can feel it too." Asuma murmured, exhaling a puff of smoke.
"Soon, he'll been sent out on life-or-death missions. But if he fights like this... I don't think-..." Choza's words became cut off, biting his food.
"Just let him be kind... It's his strength." Asuma interrupted.
This declaration earned a stern glare from Choza, finishing his meal before grabbing another ball. As this occurred, a screeching fire hawk flew through the skyline, soaring towards the 5th Hokage.
"Be kind?! In the era of shinobi?" Choza stuttered.
Smiling in response, Asuma's bearded face was partially concealed by a pillar of smoke, rising from his cigarette. Ignoring this smoke, Choza bit into a mouthful of food, chewing it with a groan.
"Some day, his kindness will grow into a great weapon." Asuma declared.
"A day when Konoha will depend on his innocent nature..." As he spoke, smoke was dripping from Asuma's nose.
As this conversation progressed, Choji was watching over the distant caterpillar, wrapping itself in a cocoon. Because of this, Choji didn't even notice the stern expression across Choza's face.
Two weeks later.
The iconic sound of rain striking wood could be heard, polluting the cloud-covered outline of Konoha. Before long, Choji's wet hair was exposed, standing in front of a rain-soaked bush.
This bush was the home of a well-nested cocoon, cracked open before a butterfly wiggled into view. Struggling under the rain, this butterfly crawled from its cocoon, guided by a pair of antenna.
Freeing itself, this butterfly stretched all four of its blue wings, contrasting the soaking wet leaf it clung too. However, the heavy rain eventually overwhelmed this young butterfly, knocking it loose.
Filled with panic, Choji abruptly blew several currents of wind against the falling butterfly, saving it. While this occurred, the stern silhouette of Choza was standing in the background, obscured by his umbrella.
"You are a kind child, my son." Choza exclaimed.
"But this butterfly must learn how to fly by itself..." After hearing these words, Choji quickly froze.
Briefly falling towards the ground, this blue butterfly fluttered all four wings before soaring across the rain-filled skyline. Using his umbrella as a shield, Choza approached his son before standing behind him.
"You and that butterfly are one in the same... You need to learn how to fly." As Choza spoke, his words inspired Choji to downcast his face.
Choji was always seen as the weakest in his class, no one ever took him seriously or valued him as a Shinobi. Even though Naruto was the deadlast in class, Choji was constantly mocked for his shy nature.
Because of this, throughout Choji's childhood he regularly depended on Naruto and Shikamaru, his first pair of friends. But now, those friends were slowly leaving Choji behind, growing up without him.
One week later.
A dense collection of shadows dashed across an endless array of tree branches, illuminated by sunlight. Soon, Raiga, Asuma and Kurenai came into view, escorting Shino, Hinata and Shikamaru through the forest.
"Um... Sensei... What didn't we bring Choji along?" Hinata mumbled.
"Isn't it obvious? He'll just slow us down." Shino cut in.
This statement earned an ear-booming laugh from Shikamaru, an extremely rare display of emotion. Because of this, Asuma narrowed both eyes as he continued to jump, trailing behind Raiga.
"You just don't get it, do you?" Shikamaru smirked.
"Choji wouldn't slow us down... We'd slow him down." While speaking, Shikamaru displayed a wide smile.
"He's stronger than any of us, even Asuma sensei." After Shikamaru spoke, Raiga hummed with a faint tone.
Raiga had seen decades of war and violence, he bore witness to dozens of chaotic battles and bloody outcomes. Despite his brutish nature, even Raiga could see the Shinobi inside of Choji, waiting to emerge.
Meanwhile.
A heavy thud abruptly crashed against the wooden floor, stirring Choji from his sleep, sitting up with haste. This revealed a pair of Tani shinobi in front of the doorway, sprawled across the floor.
Without warning, Kakuzu's feet stomped into sight, forcing Ranmaru to jump up, grinding his teeth together. Also, Choji's mouth fell open, dropping his bag of potato chips to the ground.
"I'm looking for a Jounin, I could use some money." Kakuzu grumbled, dampened by the rapid barks of Akamaru.
After he spoke, Kakuzu leisurely tossed an unconscious Chunin against Akamaru, silencing the small puppy. Grumbling under his breath, Kakuzu snapped his neck at an unhuman level, popping several joints
Undaunted by Kakuzu's display, Ranmaru's Ketsuryūgan began to bulge and twitch, magnified by a crimson aura. Catching a glimpse of these eyes, Kakuzu fell onto both knees before grabbing his skull.
Kakuzu's perception of reality than began to bubble and melt, forcing nearby walls to boil into water. This harsh realization was followed by several beads of sweat, dripping from Kakuzu's concealed face.
Struggling to breath, Kakuzu thrust his right hand into his own chest, pulling a blood-covered heart into view. Resting in his hand, Kakuzu's heart was rapidly beating, pumping blood through a handful of veins.
Crushing this heart into a bloody pulp, Kakuzu's tossed his limp organ to the floor, stomping on his veins. This elite shinobi then reached out before back handing Ranmaru, flinging him against a nearby wall.
Observing this display of might, Choji crawled backwards across the floor, bumping against a hollow wall. Because of this, Kakuzu grumbled with disappointment, glancing throughout the room.
"Hmmm two clan heirs and an heiress? From the top clans of Konoha... I'd get good money for you." While speaking, Kakuzu's right hand was being clenched at an unhuman angle.
Enthralled by this statement, Choji snarled with disgust before jumping on his feet. Ignoring the anxiety in his chest, Choji clapped both hands into the Ox seal, breathing through his nose.
Without Raiga or Ranmaru, the village of Tani had no one, no one except for Choji. This realization was a heavy burden on the young Shinobi, forcing his teeth to grind together.
Before Choji could react, Kakuzu's left arm promptly launched across the room, slamming Choji through a thin wall. This detachable hand then grabbed Choji's throat, pulling him towards the rogue Shinobi.
"Don't squirm, I'll get more money if you're alive." After Kakuzu spoke, Choji kicked him in the stomach.
Enraged by this display, Kakuzu casually dropped Choji to the floor, kicking him across the room. Falling against Ranmaru, Choji released a muffled groan before struggling to stand up.
Annoyed by Choji's persistence, Kakuzu turned his attention towards a sleeping Ino and Kiba. Approaching these Genin, Kakuzu completely ignored Choji, he lost all interest in him.
Even now, at the most important moment in his life, Choji couldn't find the strength that he needed. No matter what he did, Choji could never catch up to Naruto or Shikamaru, he was still a child.
Everyone can see the Shinobi inside of you. I can see, Shikamaru can see it... Even Ino see's it. The iconic memory of Asuma could be heard.
But, you need to see it for yourself. Dwelling on these words, Choji clenched both of his bandaged fists.
You and this butterfly are one in the same... You need to learn how to fly. Choza's memory spoke out.
Crushed by Kakuzu's display of power, Choji didn't have the motivation to stand, he was too distracted by his own failures. Choji had such a low opinion of himself, he constantly underestimated his own abilities.
I'm sorry, dad... I can't fly... I can't even save my friends. Choji was lost in a sea of regret.
Suddenly, the vibrant and transparent silhouette of a blue butterfly erupted into view, landing atop Choji's nose. This abrupt appearance earned a startled gasp from Choji, causing his mouth to fall open.
It requires a certain action, Choji, an act of absolute clarity and resolve. The sacred voice of the Blue Butterfly Sage could be heard.
Only an act of love, greater than an act of hatred, can save your friends. As this sage spoke, Choji basked in his presence.
Pondering these thoughts, each of Choji's eyes began to widen and bulge, magnified by his twitching pupils. Gasping with shock, the butterfly across Choji's nose soon dissolved into a blue cloud of mist, fading from view.
That's why I couldn't do it... Dad, because I didn't have your faith. Choji proclaimed.
Inspired by these thoughts, Choji staggered onto both feet, earning a hostile grunt from Kakuzu. Panting with each breath, Choji reached into his satchel before pulling a kunai loose.
"You were always putting my needs above your own... You were always thinking of me." As Choji spoke, his words filled Kakuzu with confusion.
Everything in Choji's entire life had led to this moment, to stand beside his friends and protect them. This was Choji's goal, a moment that he always dreamed of, he wanted to be a hero.
Fueled by this goal, Choji's anxiety was completely dissolved, ending his nervous twitch. Before long, Ranmaru woke up, opening both eyes before glancing at the blurred outline of Choji.
"I wanted to be like you, I wanted to stand like you, I wanted to fight like you." While speaking, Choji gripped his kunai with both hands.
"I love you... Father." With these final words, Choji plunged his kunai into his own heart.
Before Kakuzu could react, the entire building was engulfed with a blinding aura of blue light, obscuring everything. Also, several planks of wood were shattered into clouds of dust and debris.
"What?!" Kakuzu panicked, holding both arms in front of his eyes.
As Kakuzu spoke, his Akatsuki outfit violently rustled in a chakra-filled breeze, causing his sleeves to waver. This breeze eventually reached Kiba and Ino, blowing their blankets off as they continued to sleep.
Soon, portions of Choji's pale skin could be seen, erupting from a sparkling aura of blue chakra. As this wave of chakra began to dissipate, Choji's snow-white face could be seen, matching his recolored skin.
A radiant pair of four blue wings then jutted into sight, protruding out from Choji's back, fueled by pure chakra. Ignoring his closed eyes, Choji's most prominent feature was his hair, a bright shade of blue.
"Oh? So you've finally decided to fight me." After speaking, Kakuzu lowered both arms.
"Fight you? I'm not going to fight you..." Choji exclaimed, allowing his aura of chakra to fade.
"I'm going to killing you." As Choji spoke, he opened his sparkling blue eyes, the eyes of a Butterfly Sage.