Konoha's Council Chamber. Four days after the incident at the Academy.
The air in the large chamber of Konoha's Council was thick with tension, emitted by the various parties that currently were present in this very room. From the Civilian Councilors and Elders, to Shinobi Clan Heads and Commanders of Konoha's Military, all were feeling and exuding tension that was currently permeating the space in this very room. All were feeling it, but not everyone was able to remain calm under such tension, like with Tsume Inuzuka, who had a glaring look with a snarl, akin to her dog, reacting to the passive aggression in the air with her own aggressive look. Others, like Fugaku Uchiha and Tomoe, who was sat to his right hand, were every bit as calm as it could get, wearing a look of complete concentration. And then there were those that were seemingly oblivious to the tension in the air, like with Amagi, who sat on the Civilian side of the Council and was sipping tea. Only Tomoe knew that the millennia old and wise Tenko Kitsune had mastered the ways of hiding her emotions better than anyone in this entire village.
It had been already four days since Fugaku had issued an ultimatum to Minato Namikaze regarding the situation with Natsu and Nine-Tailed Fox, and everyone had expected that Minato would honor the deal, but then external factors came into play that put a halt to that plan. The storm that had raged on the day of Naruto's injury caused far more damage than was originally perceived, since it not only flooded some of the lower situated areas of Konoha, but also caused several rivers that were adjacent Konoha's territory to overflow and flood up to five villages and towns that were in near vicinity of Konoha. This in turn, caused a massive influx of newcomers into Konoha and now it was packed to the brim with villagers and fugitives, who were trying to save themselves from the flood.
But that wasn't the end of the trouble for Konoha, as the flooding reached two thirds of all the farms and paddies under Konoha's control, destroying much needed crops and scattering the cattle. Several textile industries were also heavily damaged, along with a couple of lumber camps being put out of order. Overall, Konoha was now facing a prospect of extreme food shortage and lack of essential resources to effectively repair all the damage, and all of this had caused Minato to postpone the meeting of the Council.
He was far too busy giving out orders and trying to combat the troubles that were now plaguing Konoha, and he was honestly starting to become desperate, since for all of his combat prowess and genius on the battlefield, Minato was not what one would call a competent administrator and manager. He never did properly organize the administration of the Village, with the Council essentially handing him all of the business that were concerning the dealings in Konoha. Without proper delegation of the civilian matters or even people that could do it in the office of Hokage, Minato was forced to do it all himself. Needless to say, Fugaku and others weren't pleased with this, but understood that now they could do nothing, but wait and use this time to their advantage, and they did exactly that.
Due to the sudden influx of the fugitives and many of the civilians losing their hosing, and with several business enterprises, Fugaku, with the advice of Amagi, decided to make his move on the economical stage. Clan Uchiha, who, much like most of the Shinobi Clans, suffered the least amount of damage due to the storm and its consequences offered to shelter the fugitives, offering them food, houses and warm beds. Along with that, Fugaku had ordered to open up the stores of Uchiha Clan for all of Konoha people, sharing their food reserves and preventing short term hunger among the populace. These actions instantly won Clan Uchiha near universal praise from the Civilian and non-Clan Shinobi, bringing their popularity to the highest point in history.
But that was not the end of that, since Fugaku has offered all those refugees a place in Uchiha Clan, essentially allowing them to integrate themselves into the populace of his Clan. While militarily, his Clan wasn't going to win any new powerful recruits in any soon time, economically, Clan Uchiha was going to rise up above and beyond what they were even when they were back in the times of the First Hokage, and it was all thanks to three persons: Minato, Tomoe and Amagi.
Over a month ago, in order to deescalate the tensions and regain the loyalty of Uchiha Clan, Minato had agreed to a set of conditions that would see Clan Uchiha regain its economic and political power, if only to a certain degree. Uchiha Clan was granted ownership of two more mines, provided that they could pay the previous owners and maintain them, along with expanding their metallurgic productions, which was one of the main breadbaskets of Clan Uchiha. Add to that fact additional land for farms and paddies, as well as an open access to the markets of Land of Fire and Konoha, and Clan Uchiha were well on their way to regaining their power. But along with that, Minato granted Fugaku a place in the Council, as the Head of Konoha's Police Force, while Mikoto was made a representative of Clan Uchiha in the Council.
Shinobi Forces of Konoha were also affected by this sudden power change, as many Uchiha members were once more integrated into regular troops and Anbu, further strengthening Konoha's forces. While Council initially opposed such serious expansion in power of Uchiha Clan, especially when they seemingly had been on the verge of rebellion, they were placated when it was announced that Konoha's Police Force, which operated seemingly independently before, was now answerable to the office Hokage and only him. Along with that, in order to compensate the sudden loss in manpower following the reintegration of many Uchiha into Konoha's forces, Fugaku broke the old tradition and was now recruiting members from other Clans and outside them. Such a radical change would've been impossible in the past, since the Uchiha Clan would oppose it, but now they when they were again on the rise, they allowed such a thing to happen, and already several dozen non-Uchiha Shinobi were accepted into the Police Force, with that number steadily rising.
Another concession that Fugaku has agreed to make was yielding the position of Head of Uchiha Clan and instead taking the post of Head of Konoha's Police on a permanent manner, so as to not control both votes of Uchiha Clan and Police Commander. The elders had tried to use this opportunity to put into that place someone they would be able to control, but they were unable to do so, as the Clan already chose to place Mikoto as the Head of Clan Uchiha. While officially it was known that Mikoto had no experience in such matters, she did have good enough insight into this hard and difficult duty from her years as Fugaku's wife. She was respected, admired and also powerful in her own right, making her a good choice for the Clan Head, and that's when not taking into account her marriage to Fugaku.
Overall, the Uchiha Clan wasn't just placated by those decisions, it was once again integrated back into Konoha proper, with the Clan enjoying the position they deserved all this time. Everyone had expected that Clan Uchiha was simply remain as powerful as they were made, but the incident with Naruto and that storm had changed things and opened up a whole new road to opportunities for Clan Uchiha to expand. While they weren't allowed access to more mines and enterprises than was agreed upon, one of the conditions that Minato had to concede was the ability for Uchihas to make investments and buy portions of the enterprises. That was something that Fugaku and Mikoto exploited over these few days that they were granted, and it was done thanks to Amagi.
Wise Tenko advised them to start their expansion immediately, and buy portions of the businesses that were either destroyed or damaged during the storm. Priestess of Inari understood that right now many owners and shareholders will be looking to sell off their properties in order to cut their loses, and they would do so with the price being lower than usual. In a few days, Mikoto, through various traders and businessmen of Uchiha Clan, has expanded into all kinds of enterprises, buying and acquiring many shares of various businesses, with some being completely taken by Uchihas. They would still have to repaired and brought back into the working order, but this was something that Uchiha Clan could take care of, given their wealth and help from Tomoe. And add to that fact that Uchihas were opening their doors for hundreds of fugitives to integrate into their Clan, with many of them being craftsmen, farmers, miners and so on. Once the dust starts to settle down, Clan Uchiha will have not just strengthened their power, but acquired far more than could've been predicted. If before they could only compete in influence and might with Clan Hyuuga, then soon enough the Hyuuga will look like two-bit gang of hooligans in comparison to Uchihas.
Speaking of Tomoe, over the month that followed after the meeting at Inari Temple, she became not just a common sight for Uchihas, but someone who was recognized as one of the advisors to first Fugaku, and now to Mikoto. With the help from Fugaku, Tomoe was now starting to get integrated into the clan of her mother, and after some Clan meetings, she was fully accepted into the fold, where she instantly became a rather influential and powerful figure, possibly even second in power to Clan Head. She now used the amassed fortunes that she had from inherited riches of Senju Clan, her grandfather, Mito and what she earned in her years of near suicidal career, to help expand and empower her Clan.
It was her money that would be used to repair the damage done to the acquired businesses, as well as stimulating them to new heights. While the sum of money needed for all of this was going to quite substantial, for Tomoe it was nothing that would get her worried about, since she had more than enough money as it is. Along with that, over the years of her retirement and thanks to Amagi, Tomoe had acquired quite a sizable fortune outside of her career and affiliations with Konoha, having invested into several lucrative businesses and enterprises. At first, Tomoe did this simply because she had nothing better to do with all the money she had, and she has a lot of money, but after she started to gain profit from her investments, she decided to continue with it. Right now, Tomoe was already the richest person in all of Konoha, possessing collectively more money and wealth than Nara, Yamanaka and Akimichi Clans combined.
As for Amagi herself, she was on the Council due to the influence of the Civilian Council and Uchiha Clan who basically had to strong-arm Hokage into granting her this position. Given the fact that Amagi possessed an immense amount of influence in and out of Konoha, as well as her position as a religious leader of the Village, it was only natural that she would gain the post one day, it simply took a long time. While this was one of the seemingly smaller changes in the political life, it was one of the most serious, since Amagi didn't waste these days and used to them meet with various Councilors that were seriously concerned with the situation regarding the incident at the Academy. Amagi reached out to most of these councilors and had managed to secure their loyalty in this matter, bringing much needed support for Fugaku. It was clear to all that he wasn't going to be able to secure the help from Clan Heads in this matter, given their loyalty to Minato and dislike of Uchiha Clan, but with all the humanitarian acts and diplomacy done, Uchiha Clan could now boast the allegiance of Civilians of Konoha. And that support was going to come today into play, when he puts Namikaze in his place.
The Council was in session for quite some time now, discussing the matters regarding the consequences of the storm, with Homura Mitokado speaking up.
"Regarding the compensations and repairs of the Civilian houses, regrettably, we do not possess enough monetary and material resources in order to accomplish it immediately. We have already sent a request to Lord Daimyo, but given the damage the storm and flooding have caused, it may be possible that we won't be able to accomplish anything in this regard." Homura explained, with the Civilian side in distress after hearing it.
"What do you mean by that, Elder Mitokado? Are you saying that our families will have to live in tents for stars knows how long?!" One of the Councilors and leaders of civilian communities in Konoha rose up in discontent. "The civilian population was hurt the most during that storm, and yet you have delegated the majority of the relief resources onto Shinobi Clans! This is an outrage! We supply the Village with the lion's share of the products, resources and foods, and yet you do this to us?!"
"Councilor Sagara, do not forget, that this is a Shinobi Hidden Village, and it is imperative for us to maintain our military power and not show any sign of weakness to our neighbors. Our investment into the Shinobi Clans will see that the populace of Konoha remains safe and secure, and it will also expedite the acquisition of needed funds to rebuild your housing." Elder Koharu Utatane spoke up. "The situation on the political scene is not as stable as it could be, and we have to maintain the constant vigilance in case any of our enemies decide to resume their attacks on us."
"Oh, so while you Shinobi get to fill up your bellies with all the good imported stuff and sleep in warm beds, we'll have to huddle in the tents on the grounds of Inari Temple for how long? A month, or a year?" Another one of the Civilian Councilors spoke up. "This may be the Hidden Village, but Shinobi aren't the only people that live here. Without us civilians here, most of you would go hungry within a month."
"Then why don't you loudmouths do something about it instead of wasting our time huh?" Tsume spoke up in a mocking manner. "What, nothing to say about it? Well if you don't then why don't you sit down and let the real people do what is needed for this village."
"Are you stating that we aren't worth to have our own voice on this Council, Lady Inuzuka?" Sagara asked of her, with Tsume looking straight at him and answering.
"In my own eyes, my ninken is worth far more than all of you combined, because he's more useful than all of you." Tsume stated blatantly. "You civilians need to do what you are told, keep your head down and not complain about every little thing like little newborn pups."
"Why you damn dog breeding…" Sagara was about to blow a fuse with many others, when Mikoto Uchiha has decided to put a stop to this.
"Clan Uchiha will donate the necessary sum of money in order to cover the needs of repairing and reconstruction of civilian housing." Mikoto suddenly stated, shocking everyone. "We will also handle the acquisition of necessary resources in order to expedite the construction."
"Lady Uchiha, I am afraid that such an act might leave your clan in a quite poor financial situation. Are you certain that you can cover the expenses?" Minato asked of her.
"You need not worry about my Clan, Lord Hokage. Unlike Clan Inuzuka, we Uchihas remember that Will of Fire applies to all of population of Konoha, and that means that it is our duty to support those in need of help." Mikoto reminded them all of the main philosophy that drove Konoha forward, with many of Shinobi Clans feeling slightly ashamed of themselves, while Tsume was growling in discontent. "We can cover the expenses, so the Elders need not worry about the position and power of Konoha on the political arena. My Clan is no stranger to hard times, and in comparison to the times of Sengoku era, this won't be anything unusual for us." Mikoto assured them all, with the Civilian side subsiding.
"Thank you, Lady Uchiha. You do not know how much this means for us all. At least there are the Uchihas, who remember that Civilians are people too, unlike some other Shinobi Clans." Sagara glared at Tsume, who answered his glare with her own. "Perhaps, some of the other honorable and powerful Clans would like to assist their Shinobi brethren in helping us, small and unimportant people, out?"
"The Hyuuga Clan has also sustained damage from that storm, and before we can give any help to you, we have to look out for our own people." Hiashi stated with coldness in his voice. "I am afraid that you won't find any more humanitarians in here, aside from the generous Uchiha Clan."
"Unfortunately, but this is true on all cases, Councilor Sagara. Aside from this being a drag, we all have our own matters to settle that arose due to the storm." Shikaku Nara stated to him, with the other civilian Councilors sending glares towards the Shinobi side. "The reality of the situation is that we are in a precarious state when we simply can't show any sign of weakness in front of our neighbors. Kumogakure are still itching for a fight with us, and will use any opportunity to strike at us, and when they get involved, then Iwagakure will follow the suite. In short, we need to maintain and keep our own forces in top condition. I'm sorry, I really am, but that's just the world that we live in right now."
"Anyway, Lady Uchiha, how soon can we expect you to transfer the necessary sum of money? Do you require time for acquisition of it?" Councilor Homura asked of her, with Mikoto asking Tomoe in whispering manner.
"How soon will you be able to get the money for this?" She asked of Tomoe, who sat on her left.
"Two days, but best if you have someone not from the Elders or Shinobi handle this affair. Have Amagi put in charge of money, that way you'll win the full trust of Civilians. You can argument it by stating that by this, you minimize the risk of any of that money being distributed into wrong projects." Tomoe advised her, with Mikoto turning to the head table and speaking up.
"I need two days in order to acquire the needed sum. However, I request that the money is to be transferred not directly to the office of Hokage or any of the Elders, but to Priestess Amagi." Mikoto stated to them, surprising them all. "Lady Amagi, as a religious person and unaffiliated with the political parties of this village, is best suited to seeing that the money is used for the best possible course, without the risk of any of it being distributed into wrong hands."
"Are you accusing us of a possible theft, Lady Uchiha?" Danzo asked of her directly.
"No, merely taking precautions. It is a rather substantial sum, Councilor Shimura." Mikoto stated to him, before turning to Amagi. "Lady Amagi, if you agree…"
"If this is for the good of people of Konoha, I agree to handle the financial matters of this reconstruction." Amagi nodded to them. "If other Councilors do not protest to it that is…"
"No, this is actually an excellent idea." Sagara agreed to it.
"Alright, now that this is out of the way, I believe that concludes our session for today…" Minato was about to adjourn the meeting, but it was then that Fugaku has decided to make his move.
"Lord Hokage, there is still the matter of the Jinchuriki of Nine Tails, Natsu Namikaze, and the incident regarding Naruto Uzumaki." Fugaku suddenly reminded them all, with Kushina glaring daggers at him from further up the row, while Minato had a somewhat pleading look at him. "Considering that this is a matter of internal security of the Village, I am afraid that this case must be discussed by the Council."
"There is nothing to discuss. My son told you all that this he was influenced by the Kyuubi to do what he did. Once Naruto wakes up, he'll apologize and that will be the end of it all." Kushina stated with determination to Fugaku.
"That may be so, but the fact that one of our Jinchuriki has been influenced, as he had stated and is stated by Kushina Uzumaki, by Kyuubi, means that he was compromised and has shown to be a possible danger for the populace of this Village. As Head of Konoha's Police Force, I am unable to ignore a possible disaster like that, and I demand that the Council take appropriate measures in order to prevent further incidents like that." Fugaku stated with authority in his voice.
"Agreed. The situation regarding one of our Jinchuriki warrants our immediate attention and necessary actions." Danzo supported Fugaku on this matter. "I propose we discuss and resolve this matter immediately."
"Agreed." Homura and Koharu supported the notion.
"Clan Uchiha supports this notion." Mikoto agreed and supported this.
"As does Clan Aburame." Shibi nodded to them.
"The Civilian Population also would like to see this matter resolved, since many of our children have entered the academy this year, and all of them saw what happened. They, and their parents, are understandable, were shocked and scared, seeing one of the heroic twins act like that." One of the Councilors stated to them.
"That kid was asking for trouble. He shouldn't have put forth his name in that box, if he wasn't going to compete." Tsume commented it. "That fool shouldn't have riled up Natsu as he did."
"That bastard child deserved what he got." Another one of the Councilors stated with fervor, surprising Sagara and others. "Maybe it was the Fox inside that fool influencing our Hero to do what he did."
"Where in the world did you even hear such a nonsensical thing?" Minato asked of the councilor. "Naruto doesn't have Kyuubi's soul inside of him! Natsu and Narumi are the only Jinchuriki that this Village has, and my youngest son has nothing to do with the Kyuubi. And who in the world even told you that he was a bastard?"
"B-but, Lord Hokage, it's c-common knowledge that the boy only survived his infancy because you've put the soul of Kyuubi inside of him. Everyone knows it." The Councilor stated to him, shocking Minato and Kushina. "And besides, that child's a fool and even your own children have said so many times. It's obvious that you keep him around only to maintain control over the Kyuubi's soul."
"Who in the world has been spreading these rumors?! My son has nothing to do with Kyuubi, and anyone dares to call him a fool again, and I'll beat them to the pulp!" Kushina promised with her hair already splitting into the tails.
"I am afraid that we won't be able to find the perpetrator of those rumors now, given the fact that they have been circulating for many years now. As long as Naruto has lived, in fact." Amagi told Kushina and Minato, shocking them. "Unfortunately, but the reality is that while some of the more educated populace doesn't take these kinds of rumors seriously, the majority of the populace have taken to believing these rumors to be true. And as a result… Poor Naruto, being forced to live among people that see him as a monster and a fool."
"Why was this not brought to our attention sooner?!" Minato demanded to know from everyone. "Fugaku, you are responsible for the safety of our village and its populace, why was I not informed of these kinds of rumors?"
"Lord Hokage, I believe I have informed you about the rumors surrounding your son over a month ago, yet you chose not to intervene back then. Aside from the rumors and glares, there wasn't anything harmful done towards Naruto, so I or the Police Force couldn't do anything. Until the Academy inauguration day, the harassment of your youngest son was somewhat limited." Fugaku informed Minato, who was shocked to hear it all. "But during the traditional duel, you heard what the public demanded. They wanted Natsu to beat Naruto to a pulp, openly propagating your eldest to try and kill him, and given what I heard from my own son, I have reasons to believe that Natsu may've tried to do it from the start."
"What?! How dare you to state that our son was trying to kill Naruto?!" Kushina rose up from her seat in rage.
"Then how will you explain the declarations of Natsu and Narumi that their brother was better off he had died early? Or how about them saying that if he had died, then it would be a relief upon the family, to be rid of such a fool?" Fugaku informed them all, shocking Kushina and forcing her to sit down. "I heard that and much more from my son Sasuke, and as a father, I must state that I never thought I would hear siblings wishing death upon one of their own."
"They… They couldn't have…" Kushina was in denial after hearing it. "They didn't mean it… Natsu and Narumi… They are just…"
"I'm afraid that this is just the tip of the iceberg, but we will discuss this later. Right now, there is the matter of Natsu Namikaze trying to kill Naruto Uzumaki. As I am certain all of you are aware by now, Naruto Uzumaki has been hospitalized right after the attempt on his life, and is currently in coma, following a hard operation. To provide the details on the extent of injuries, inflicted upon Naruto Uzumaki, I ask Shizune Kato to inform the Council on this topic." At that, Shizune stood up and spoke up.
"As his doctor and the one who headed his operation, I can state that Naruto Uzumaki had suffered extensive and life-threatening injuries and damage. In fact, it is my professional opinion, that his chances on surviving the operation were as low as 1 to 10." Shizune began, already making many of the Councilors intrigued and frightened a little.
"Lady Shizune, could you clarify your statement a little? Are you stating that the child should've died, under normal circumstances?" Inoichi Yamanaka asked of her. "I am sorry, but perhaps you are exaggerating a little? Maybe, Lady Tsunade would be more qualified to inform this Council…"
"Lord Yamanaka, Shizune Kato was the one who operated Naruto Uzumaki and is his monitoring doctor. And need I remind you that she has over a decade of experience as a medical Shinobi. And as for Tsunade Senju, I must inform the Council that she has played a role in injuring Naruto Uzumaki, and I have valid reasons to believe that she actively sought an outcome like one that had occurred." Fugaku shocked the Council.
"Lies! You don't have the proof of that and…" Tsunade rose up from her seat and shouted at Fugaku.
"Silence!" Danzo immediately silenced Tsunade, before turning to Shizune. "Lady Shizune, please continue your explanation. Can you clarify your earlier statement?"
"I can, and I will. Naruto Uzumaki sustained a serious trauma of his head and brain, with his skull being damaged and caved in, with splintered pieces of his skull damaging the brain, akin to shrapnel. He was suffering from serious blood loss, with his brain cavity being filled with blood." Shizune elaborated to the Council the extent of Naruto's injuries. "Under normal circumstances, with such an extent of damage, chances of survival are minimal, and Naruto Uzumaki is one out of ten cases in which the patient survived such an operation. He is currently in coma, though his vital signs are stable and show progressive recovery, but there is a very high risk of him having sustained serious mental damage. It is hard to say for sure what damage was done upon his brain, but one thing I can say for certain: Naruto's survival is akin to a miracle."
"Thank you for elaborating, Lady Shizune." Fugaku thanked her, with Shizune sitting down. "You've heard it yourself, Councilors, and it was done by Natsu Namikaze, when he threw a simple rock at Naruto, after the boy was about to leave the ring. I need not state what happened further, because all of us were there and saw it happen before our eyes. We all heard how Natsu addressed Naruto and how he wanted to take him down, and for what? Because Natsu believed his brother to be not worthy of living. Is this really the person you would trust with something as powerful as Kyuubi, especially when he used that power like that?"
"You are subverting the truth, Lord Fugaku. Do not forget, that Kyuubi was…" Minato tried to defend his son, but Fugaku didn't allow him.
"Yes, we all heard it the first time. Kyuubi was influencing your son, but I am afraid that I have proof to dispel that. As one of my witnesses I would like this Council to hear Izuna Niwa, former caretaker of Namikaze Family." One of the guards opened up the door and welcomed said girl in. "This young lady has worked in the Namikaze Family for quite some time and can provide us with clear insight into the situation, regarding the relations within the family."
"The Council will hear her out." Koharu agreed to it, with other Elders supporting her. "Lady Niwa, are you aware of why you've been asked to come here?"
"I am, Elder." She said politely.
"Are you also aware that by coming here, you suspend your right of withholding vital information and lying to us, since you shall be put under the influence of a special seal?" Homura asked of her, with Izuna nodding to them.
"Lord Fugaku explained it to me. I am ready whenever you are." She simply told them, with one of the guards quickly printing the seal upon the back of her neck, and although it showed to take effect, Izuna was completely fine, given her nature as a Kitsune.
"Very well. Miss Niwa, what was your job in Namikaze household?" Koharu asked of her.
"I was employed as a caretaker for the youngest of Namikaze children, Mito Namikaze-Uzumaki. Later on, I took on the duties of a cook, cleaner and other things, when Lady Kushina had no time for them." Izuna answered.
"Could you tell us, were you privy to the relations between Naruto Uzumaki and his family?" Izuna nodded to that question. "How would you describe the relations between Natsu and Naruto Namikaze, and the attitude of Natsu Namikaze in general?"
"The relations between Naruto and his siblings, aside from Mito, were, for the most part, almost always antagonistic and not sibling-like. Natsu, in particular, seemed to take special enjoyment out of mocking and belittling Naruto at every chance he could find, either using the fact of Naruto not being trained by his parents, or his hobbies, or even something like believing in deities, stating that only fools and idiots believe in them on numerous times." Izuna stated, with many in the room being shock, with Namikaze included. "Every time I was in the house and Naruto was there with Natsu, the latter would almost always start to belittle and insult Naruto, without any provocation. For the most part, Naruto would try to ignore, but sometimes he would answer back and speak back at Natsu, and that would usually lead to Natsu trying to hurt Naruto without any consideration. I often had to step in and calm him down, and I've often reported the behavior of Natsu to his parents, but they simply dismissed my claims as simple sibling rivalry."
"And what you saw you wouldn't describe as a normal case of sibling rivalry?" Shikaku asked of her.
"No, not when one of the siblings actively states that the other should've died a long time ago." Izuna told him. "As for his behavior, Natsu Namikaze, in my opinion and from what I observed, is a spoiled, entitled and arrogant to the point of looking down on anyone who isn't him or his sister. He regards himself as royalty, proudly proclaiming himself to be the hero of Konoha and next Hokage, while violently lashing out against anyone who disagrees. He treats people that admire him and his fans as something that is natural and that all should do this to him, because he is a Hero of Konoha and holds Kyuubi. Overall, he sees himself as someone above everyone for no good reason, and he believes that everything is allowed to him. That attitude is fueled and supported by his parents and godparents, who always have stated that he and Narumi are special and better than anyone."
"No, we never said that!" Kushina tried to deny those accusations. "That woman was just fired by me for misconduct, and now she is simply trying to get revenge on us for my just punishment."
"No, you fired me because I didn't allow you to hit Mito back in the Hospital, and for speaking out my mind after witnessing your atrocious attitude towards your youngest children, and how you spoiled your eldest." Izuna revealed to the Council the truth, with most being in shock. "Both of parents were present several times and saw the altercations happen between Naruto and Natsu, with Natsu always been the one to initiate them, with him getting out unscathed, while Naruto would be reprimanded, even when he didn't do anything. And when he did speak back, it would only serve as proof for them of his bad behavior and why they didn't train him."
"Wait, you mean to tell us that Naruto wasn't being trained alongside his siblings?" Sagara asked of her, with Izuna nodding to her. "Then how did he manage to move like that, since he wasn't hit even once?"
"He admitted that he received training from someone who was his friend. It was only after the incident that I learned that he was being trained by Tomoe Uchiha." Izuna admitted to the council.
"Is this true, Tomoe?" Hiruzen Sarutobi asked of her. "Why would you take in an apprentice, without the notice of his parents?"
"I will answer that when it's my turn, old monkey." Tomoe stated to him, her right eye looking directly at Hiruzen, showing her healthy ruby iris, after it was healed by Amagi.
"As you say. Now, how would you describe Naruto Uzumaki to us? Are the rumors that circulate around the village about him are true or false?" Koharu asked of Izuna.
"The rumors regarding Naruto being a fool and idiot are complete rubbish and nothing more than tongue waggling of people who have nothing better to do. While it is true that Naruto does believe in supernatural forces and is a religious person, but as someone who holds same beliefs yet isn't discriminated, I do not see why he is treated like that. That aside, Naruto is a very bright young man, far wiser than most adults five times his age, possessing a clear and clever mind, with a thirst for knowledge." Izuna stated.
"What kind of knowledge? Knowledge of chakra, Jutsu and things like that?" Homura asked of Izuna, who shook her head.
"No, not something like that. Naruto is interested in sciences, math and literature, history, nature and all sorts of academic materials. He can do difficult equations in his mind and solve them within a few seconds, he can explain a difference between iron and steel from chemical point of view. He reads books by tens in a month, and knows how to play a flute." Izuna continued. "He knows how to write and read, even knows how to understand different dialects. But he is also very interested in mythology and history, always looking excited when reading something about Yokai or Kami."
"Does he have the same kind of interest in topics, related to Shinobi?" Shikaku asked of Izuna, curious to find out what really Naruto was about, instead of just relying on now false rumors. "Is Naruto as passionate towards the idea of being a Shinobi of Leaf as all the other kids are?"
"No, he isn't the same when it comes to Shinobi topics. For him, being a Shinobi isn't a dream come true, nor does he see it as something thrilling and exiting, no." Izuna stated to them, getting the people curious.
"So you mean to tell us that the boy has no aptitude towards being a Shinobi, in your personal, civilian opinion?" Hiashi asked of Izuna, pointing her civilian status.
"No." Izuna got the Council confused. "Just because he doesn't show any evident or seeming interest doesn't mean that he has no aptitude to a Shinobi. In my personal, civilian opinion, Naruto has more aptitude for being a Shinobi than both Natsu and Narumi combined, all because he understands something that they don't."
"And what would my children not be able to understand, huh, Izuna?" Kushina asked with the narrowed eyes, with Izuna facing her and answering.
"That being a Shinobi isn't about being a hero or saving people from monsters. It is about becoming a monster in order to do things no human can. That being a Shinobi isn't about being praised as a hero, or becoming a Hokage, no. It is about duty towards the people of one's village, and doing everything to keep them safe, even if it means you have to die for them. That is why Naruto is better than both of them- he understands it." Izuna surprised everyone in the room by revealing it to them all.
The Council, specifically the Shinobi half of it, were deeply in their own thoughts, processing what they had just heard and were trying to determine what they thought about it. Obviously, they now had to face the reality and respond to it, given the testimony of Izuna and the fact that it was genuine. It was now clear to the leading men and women of Konoha that their supposed "Savior" Natsu wasn't as pure and great as they had perceived him to be. While it was true for many that Natsu did come off as something of a show off or a bit reckless, but they just saw it as natural behavior for a kid of his status. But to find out what he really was from Izuna, and when piecing it together with what people had already perceived and saw about him… It started to dawn upon them that this wasn't the kind of person they would like to have, when dealing with half of Kyuubi.
The position of Jinchuriki was a special one, and the person to hold a Tailed Beast inside wasn't just randomly picked. No, it had to be someone of great capability and capacity, someone who could tame the Tailed beast inside of them and use their power for the good of the Hidden Village. Due to their precarious position, such people were more often than naught hated and ostracized for being vessels of such great power, while also being seen as less than humans and more as high value tools. In the past, there were plenty of cases where a Jinchuriki, who had been ostracized and belittled by his own village and others had snapped at the people and this always ended up in destructions and death. These cases, however, didn't teach everyone the needed lessons on how to raise a Jinchuriki, as evidenced by the rumors about the Jinchuriki of Sunagakure that reached Konoha. While there are certain cases when a human manages to become what is considered to be a perfect Jinchuriki, they are far too few and far too in between, with nearly everything about their behavior, life and upbringing being different and providing no clear way to create the perfect weapon.
Mito Uzumaki was one such "perfect weapon" and the first Jinchuriki in recorded history, one that was not just capable of fully holding the power of Kyuubi within herself, but also being able to utilize it, though she never did do so in public. Only one person in this entire chamber can state with full confidence that she saw Mito use Kyuubi's power and can describe the way of getting it. And that person isn't Kushina, but rather her rival, Tomoe Uchiha, the one who was raised by Mito and, unknowingly for Tomoe, trained by Mito to become her real successor as a Jinchuriki of Nine Tails. Minamoto Princess knew that she wasn't going to be able to hold Kyuubi inside of her forever and that Konoha will need its power, but she couldn't just let that power go to someone who wasn't prepared for it. And so, in secret from everyone, even Hokage and the Council, Mito, with a heavy heart, began to train her successor, Tomoe Uchiha, in the ways of Jinchuriki and Uzumaki.
Tomoe only learned of this much later, just a few days, when she finally opened up the journals and diaries of her adoptive mother, finally learning of the reasons why Mito was so open with Tomoe about the Jinchuriki, the ways of controlling one and more. She was grooming her into a becoming one, not out of cold calculus or desire to see the girl hurt, but out of duty and to see Konoha safe, her home. Tomoe read about it, about how Mito wished to actually make Tomoe her daughter via official adoption, as well as her sheer reluctance and pain that she was experiencing when training Tomoe. It broke Mito's heart, subjecting her adoptive granddaughter to something like that, but she simply saw no better candidate.
Even when Kushina had appeared before Mito, Minamoto Princess didn't change her opinion, instead it only strengthen her belief, especially when taking into account the fact of Kushina being Aiwa Minamoto's daughter. Mito knew of Aiwa, and even faced off against her some time before her death, driving her away and into the shadows, in order to protect herself and Tomoe. It was that battle that had crippled Mito's health and forced the Third Hokage to have the Kyuubi transferred into Kushina, disregarding the pleas from Mito completely. Instead of prepared and trained Tomoe Uchiha, who was already by that point a fully competent and able user of Uzumaki arts of Sealing and knew what a Jinchuriki needed, they now had Kushina, a completely inexperienced and unprepared girl who knew next to nothing about how to control Kyuubi. And that decision was now biting Konoha in the ass, as Mito would say to Tomoe.
Being a Jinchuriki meant being able to endure more than any simply human or even a harden Shinobi can, it was about being able to retain your humanity and soul in face of overwhelming hatred and fear coming from the people around you, as well as fighting an unending battle with your worst side, telling you to let loose and destroy all the people around you. Tomoe understood that, since Tomoe explained it to her, and she also knew that the only way to fully grasp and command the power of Tailed Beast was not through being a Shinobi. You had to be a human, one thing that many Shinobi couldn't grasp and Tomoe had nearly forgotten how to be on more than one occasion.
No matter how much power and will you have, without a human heart and soul, without knowing humility and compassion, without learning how to connect to the others not through force, but through your own heart, one would never be able to become a complete Jinchuriki. Kushina never did achieve it, yet thought that she would be able to make her children into ones, something that Tomoe found rather pathetic and hypocritical in some manner. She did spy a couple of times how Kushina and Minato trained the twins and could only laugh at it all, along with shaking her head at that.
Being a real Jinchuriki is never about abilities and power of Shinobi, but a balance of order and chaos in your soul. It is constant struggle between a Deva and an Asura in your heart, as Mito once told Tomoe, and never letting either of the two win. You could only bring the two together and use their power to truly ascend, and after learning so much more Tomoe could now fully grasp what Mito meant. Natsu and Narumi weren't fit for the roles of being Jinchuriki of Nine Tails, because of their pride, spoiled attitude and wrong upbringing. If there was one Uzumaki that currently could potentially become someone like Mito in the future, in Tomoe's opinion, than it was Naruto, but this was not to be, much to Tomoe's surprising relief.
However, the thought of Naruto being eligible for the role as a Jinchuriki wasn't restricted to just Tomoe's mind, as many on the Shinobi Council, after hearing Izuna out, began to contemplate the thought. It was now clear that Natsu, due to his behavior and personality, wasn't very fit for the role of Jinchuriki and could potentially pose a threat to Konoha, especially if he were to be able to fully grasp his power. It didn't, unfortunately, enter into most minds that part of the responsibility on why Natsu was the way he is now laid upon the Council and people of Konoha pampering and praising him for essentially nothing. And even those that did know of it didn't want and weren't going to admit it, since it would be seen as a sign of weakness, something that Konoha could never show. Unfortunately for them, Fugaku and Mikoto were going to see these people pay for that behavior.
But back to Naruto, and as Shinobi contemplated, they were starting to more and more side with the idea of having the Nine Tails, or at least half of it, to be transferred into Naruto. In their mind, it was far better to cut their losses now instead of fixing the problem through a difficult and hard way. Naruto had a completely different aptitude than his siblings, also seemed now to possess the essential understanding of Shinobi life. It was now clear that the rumors of his foolishness were just that, rumors and nothing more, and that the kid was a genius. And once the transferring was done, he could easily be molded into something that Konoha would benefit from. Natsu and Narumi were already a failed experiment in the minds of many and now it was in the majority's opinion to transfer the Nine Tails into Naruto, once he wakes up. These same people didn't exactly take into the account the desires and thoughts of Kushina and Minato, since they already knew that they would relent.
Unfortunately for them, there were those that weren't going to let these war hawks make usage of Naruto.
"I think we've heard enough about Naruto for now. One last question, Izuna: would you describe Narumi as being different from Natsu, or is she the same way as her brother?" Fugaku asked of her.
"Narumi exhibits the same pride and arrogance as her older brother, though she isn't as foolhardy or reckless as he is. She doesn't want to pummel everyone to the ground when they disagree with her, but instead she makes sure that these same people suffer from it none the less. She simply makes it clear for her friends and others that the people who disagree or whom she simply dislikes are not worthy of them, like she did with Naruto. She and Natsu propagate those nasty rumors and lies about Naruto, all because it makes them look better by comparison." Izuna stated to the Council, making Minato and Kushina widen their eyes after hearing it all. "Undeserved fame and glory have spoiled them and made life for Naruto miserable. You may not ask my opinion on this, but I will say this: most people in here, all those that have pampered and worshipped those two, while also belittled Naruto, either in word or in mind, are to blame for it."
"You have some nerve, telling us something like that, you civilian wench!" Tsume didn't like how that girl just accused them all of it, rising up. "This girl has just insulted us all, and I demand that we disregard her statement, since the seal on her is clearly malfunctioning!"
"The request is protested." Amagi suddenly spoke up, with Tsume and quite a few of Clan Heads turning their heads to her. "The Civilian side asks for an unaffiliated party to check the condition of the seal upon Izuna Niwa."
"Agreed, Councilor Amagi's request is supported by the Civilian Majority." Sagara and other Councilors nodded to it. "A member of Anbu should be skilled enough to recognize if the seal is malfunctioning."
"Inu. Check the seal." Minato commanded, and a grey haired Anbu dropped down from the ceiling and went to examine the seal.
"Hm… It looks okay, but there is definitely something wrong with it…" The Anbu droned on, as if trying to make it seem like he is examining it, when it reality it was clear to certain people that he was lying.
"Tch, naturally he would say that." Tomoe didn't want that farce to continue and rose up from her seat, before marching to Izuna.
"Tomoe Uchiha, what do you think you are doing?" Hiashi Hyuuga demanded to know of her.
"Tomoe, please return to your seat. Inu was once one of my students and he…" Minato tried to deter her, but failed.
"Exactly why he is not suited for this job, since Kakashi Hatake here will do anything just to please you, even lie to this Council or try to falsify the facts. Now, out of my way, pervert." Tomoe commanded to the Inu, with him grunting and disappearing. "Now, so that none of you have any doubts…" Tomoe demonstratively performed a series of signs before everyone, with those that recognized it being surprised. "Now, did any of you sensors detect that my Jutsu went into the effect?"
"Yes, you've performed some kind of Jutsu, though it was a self-targeted one." Inoichi stated to everyone. "The flow of chakra in Tomoe has altered, as if she had casted a Genjutsu upon herself."
"That Jutsu is an obscure one, used by the Shinobi to demonstrate that they are telling the truth. It is a form of self-targeted Genjutsu that alters mental process in brain, which prevents a person from lying. Until dispelled, the person will speak truth and only that." Koharu stated with knowledge, with Danzo, Homura, Hiruzen and Fugaku supporting it. "Tomoe Uchiha, please tell the Council if the Seal is defective or not."
"Can she even be allowed to do so, or rather, is she qualified enough to recognize a defective seal from a working one?" Choza Akimichi asked, with Hiruzen deciding to answer it.
"Tomoe Uchiha was raised and trained by Mito Uzumaki, and her knowledge of seals and mastery of them is second only to Kushina and Minato. Even I have to admit that, in Sealing Arts, Tomoe is my better." Hiruzen admitted with false modesty.
"Correction, my skills and knowledge in Seals are second to none in this Village, with both of these "geniuses" still not even close enough to be considered by rivals. And the seal is working perfectly, there is no deficiency or error with it." Tomoe stated to them all, with Kushina and Minato sending glares towards Tomoe.
"Very well, the Council will take into consideration what Miss Niwa have said. You may take the seat near to Councilor Amagi, since we may require you to testify on validity of future facts. You may go." Homura allowed Izuna, with her nodding and leaving the spot, while Tomoe returned to her own place. "I believe that after what we have heard right now, we need to decide on our next course of actions. It obviously goes without saying, that Natsu Namikaze and Narumi Namikaze are ill suited for role and duties of Jinchuriki, since their behavior and an already established contact with Kyuubi makes them a danger for this Village." Kushina was shocked when she heard him say that.
"How can you say that?! Natsu and Narumi love this village more than anything, they would die to defend it and it's people! You can say that just because of one accident!" Kushina stated to them. "They are just kids, you can be suggesting that we extract the Kyuubi out of them! It will kill them!"
"They are not simple children- they are Jinchuriki, and that means that they can't be treated as normal humans or men. It was a mistake, revealing not just their identities, but also proclaiming them as Heroes of Konoha." Danzo surmised for everyone those facts. "We've compromised ourselves and revealed to our enemies the identities of our most powerful weapons, and we've also insured that the Jinchuriki do not have the proper upbringing and are now a clear danger to the Village. I suggest that we extract the Kyuubi out of them and seal it in a more suitable host, like Naruto Uzumaki."
"Hm… The kid indeed seems to understand the matters of Shinobi world better than his siblings, and his behavior is much less outgoing and humble." Shikaku Nara stated analytically. "And he is an Uzumaki and a twin to the Jinchuriki, so he should have identical to Natsu and Narumi capabilities. If we do it now, and they focus on a proper way of upbringing him, then…"
"No! I won't allow it! As the Hokage and as their father, I will now allow any of you to touch my children!" Minato finally has had enough of this. "While it is true that Natsu and Narumi may've been spoiled a little, but that doesn't mean that they can be just disposed of like that! I won't allow it!"
"Lord Hokage, unfortunately, as per the law of Konoha, as a parent of the children, your opinion, as well as the opinion of your wife, in this matter doesn't count. This is a matter of internal and external security of Konoha and Land of Fire and therefore…" Koharu was about to explain things more clearly to him, but Fugaku interrupted them.
"I protest this decision of the Elders and Commander of our forces. As Head of Police Force, I use my right to veto this decision." Fugaku suddenly stated to them all, surprising everyone, especially Minato and Kushina
"Commander Fugaku, how do you justify your sudden decision?" Danzo demanded of him. "Certainly, someone like you, in your position, would be aware of the dangers of an unstable Jinchuriki towards Konoha, wouldn't you?"
"I am well aware of it, but I am also aware of the fact, that a released Kyuubi with no possible hosts for his sealing, unleashed upon Konoha, would pose far more danger than just an unstable Jinchuriki." Fugaku suddenly told them about it, confusing everyone. "I believe that it goes without saying that Naruto Uzumaki is in no condition to be used as a Jinchuriki, and it is impossible to determine when he will wake up, and before any of you think about little Mito Uzumaki, I would like for you to listen to an opinion of an expert, someone who happens to be better versed on the topic of being a Jinchuriki and what it entails."
"I am afraid that we can't use the testimony of Kushina Uzumaki, as according to the law…"
"I do not mean her, Councilor Koharu. I meant Tomoe Uchiha, the one who was originally supposed to become the next Jinchuriki of Kyuubi, after Mito Uzumaki's death." Fugaku surprised everyone when he said it. "Lady Uzumaki's original intent was to have Tomoe replace her as the Jinchuriki, but this ruling body had decided that Kushina Uzumaki was more suited for the position."
"It was a decision based on the fact of Kushina and Mito being from the same Clan and nation, meaning that they were physically very compatible, and that their chakra would allow them to hold Kyuubi in place." Hiruzen pointed out.
"Yet mentally and personality wise, the two couldn't be further apart, and when it comes to psychological and mental readiness, Tomoe, in Mito Uzumaki's opinion, was more prepared for that role. And as for her physical abilities and chakra, let us not forget that Tomoe Uchiha is the daughter of Raikou Senju, meaning that she is also of the Senju Clan and possesses similar to Uzumaki capabilities in both body and chakra."
"She is a bastard, not a fully-fledged Senju, nor an Uchiha." Hiashi reminded everyone.
"And does that even matter on a genetic level, Lord Hiashi?" Makoto Uchiha asked of him, with him being silent. "Why don't we just hear what Tomoe Uchiha has to say? She is still under the effect of that Jutsu she casted earlier, is she not?" Inoichi nodded.
"The Civilian Council supports the request of hearing Tomoe Uchiha as a witness." Sagara stated, after the Civilians decided to let it happen.
"Tomoe Uchiha, please take the place." She did as Danzo commanded. "Now, can you state to this body that you possess necessary knowledge on the subject of Jinchuriki and their sealing, as well as the reasons as to why we can't use Naruto and Mito Uzumaki as Jinchuriki?"
"I do." Tomoe admitted truthfully.
"Do you have sufficient enough evidence and facts to compliment your testimony?" Minato asked of her, with Tomoe unsealing a large stack of notebooks and putting them before her on the table near her.
"These are personal journals and diaries of Mito Uzumaki, containing within them the knowledge and facts upon which I will operate before this ruling body." Tomoe stated to all of them.
"These books belong to my Clan, you thieving…" Kushina tried to speak up, but Danzo interrupted her.
"Tomoe Uchiha, did Mito Uzumaki train you as her successor, and why did you to not disclose this information to the Council?" Danzo asked of her.
"Yes, she trained me as her successor, but without my knowledge about it. I became aware of the fact only after studying her journals a few days ago." Tomoe answered.
"How can one be trained to be a Jinchuriki, yet not even be aware of it? This doesn't seem to be possible." Inoichi doubted her statement.
"If you doubt me, then why not rely on your sensory abilities? I am still under that Genjutsu, am I not?" Tomoe reminded him of it. "As for why I wasn't aware of the training, it is because it wasn't just a physical training, but also a philosophical and mental one. Physically, there aren't all that many requirements to become a Jinchuriki, no learning curve or anything, but when it comes to the mind and soul… That is completely separate matter. A Jinchuriki must be prepared to face isolation and being hated and feared by his or her pears, as well as always fighting the temptation of using the power for personal benefit. A Jinchuriki must also be able to not give into the worst impulses, or to shut off his or her emotions, as well as being capable of compassion, humility and humanity. Only in that case, when you take out of the equation ignorance, fear of power, lust and desire for might, and pride of having it, can one actually use the power of Jinchuriki. Those were the lessons that Mito Uzumaki tried to pass on to me. You may confirm my testimony in this journal, pages 76 to 89 included." Tomoe passed the journal to Koharu, who quickly read through it and confirmed the authenticity of Tomoe's words.
"Yes, it appears that Tomoe Uchiha's words are true. It would seem that this council has made a mistake in disregarding the statement of Mito Uzumaki all those years ago. Or rather, Lord Third has made a mistake in making Kushina Uzumaki a Jinchuriki, since from what is written here, it is clear that she doesn't fit when it comes down to mentality." Koharu commented, with Hiruzen gritting his teeth from that one. "Anyway, while now we can see the errors made in regards to Natsu and Narumi Uzumaki, could you explain to us why we won't be able to successfully seal Kyuubi in Naruto and Mito Uzumaki?"
"If the Council will allow me to ask the question to Minato Namikaze?" The Elders nodded to her. "What type of seal was used in the sealing of Nine Tails into Natsu and Mito?"
"Eight Trigrams Seal, derived from the Uzumaki Sealing Arts, and which was being developed by Mito Uzumaki. Kushina and I had completed it, based on the knowledge she left behind." Minato stated with confidence, before he noticed that Tomoe procured a paper from her pocket, before unfolding and showing it.
"Is this the exact copy of the seal you used?" Tomoe asked, with Minato and Kushina being shocked to find out that it was the very seal they created, with both nodding, while Tomoe passed the paper to the Elders. "The Seal that is presented on that paper is indeed Eight Trigram Seal, or more specifically, it's earlier, incomplete version. The Seal was indeed being developed by Mito Uzumaki, and she had managed to create this version, but she called it an incomplete seal, due to the fact that the seal has a limited lifespan, and also possesses several weaknesses."
"Impossible, that Seal is the strongest among all of Uzumaki Seals. Even Four Sign Seal, the basis for the Eight Trigram, is weaker than this one." Kushina protested. "And while it is true that the seal has a limited lifespan, Minato developed a key that would reinforce it. The reason why it is so is because the Kyuubi's chakra is being provided to them. Through it, the children become stronger and better accustomed to using Kyuubi's chakra."
"Yet this also makes the flow of Kyuubi's chakra far harder to control and coordinate, since the Seal itself has a flaw in it that makes it incomplete. The more chakra is poured out of the Beast, the weaker it grows, and while after the outpouring of energy seizes, the Seal regains its power, it doesn't fully recharge or recover. Instead, it grows weaker and weaker, prompting the beast and the user to use more power, creating a loop, which will lead to one effect- breaking of the seal completely. Mito Uzumaki understand that this flaw is far too dangerous, which is why she tried to continue the development of it while she had time." Tomoe explained to everyone.
"Minato and I still would be able to reinforce the seal and restore it to the full capacity." Kushina argued back.
"Yes, Mito also thought of using the key, but she saw it as a too insecure and impractical method. The seal would simply continue to degrade before falling completely, and the Jinchuriki would simply continue to draw more and more power. We already saw that happen, with Natsu, and after one taste, he will want even more. And he didn't hear any voice, because the Seal would prevent it, but not prevent him from the unconscious drawing of power." Tomoe revealed to everyone, indicating now that Natsu made his choice back then on his own. "Now, as for why the sealing of Kyuubi into Naruto and Mito would fail, there are several reasons for that. First one is the seal itself, or rather that opening in it that allows for the free flowing of the Chakra into the body of Jinchuriki."
"And what is wrong with it? The amount of Chakra flowing in is small enough to not cause any harm to them." Minato told her.
"Aside from the fact that it isn't, because the body and chakra system itself becomes addicted to the constant nourishment of Kyuubi's chakra. While the amount of delivered chakra may be small in human terms, Tailed Beasts chakra is different from that of humans. It is far more powerful and dense, it is like gasoline when compared to simple lantern oil of humans. Small amounts of Tailed Beast Chakra is far more than enough to cause enough damage to kill a person, as almost was witnessed with Naruto." Tomoe stated to them. "The extraction of the Tailed Beast would also have catastrophic effect on a person's Chakra system, destroying it and rendering a person nearly incapable of using it, in the best case scenario. In the worst, it is an assured death with Eight Trigram Seal, but that isn't something that the person would worry about anymore, because by that point, the Beast would have already manifested itself."
"What do you mean by that?" Koharu asked of Tomoe.
"If one were to remove or make any form of modification on the seal, they would have to do it in steps, and the first one would be the one that would enlarge that opening, or in other words, opening the gateway for the Beast directly into the chakra network of a person. And once has access, he will use that person's chakra to hasten his manifestation into the real world, killing the Jinchuriki in the process and returning in the real world." Tomoe revealed to everyone, making Minato and Kushina widen their eyes in shock. "In short, the Seal applied to them is a really dangerous one. Even when those two throw temper tantrums, they run a risk of unconsciously drawing Kyuubi's power. If you try to extract Kyuubi, or modify the Seal, then Kyuubi gets out. In short, you are stuck with those two now. Unless of course you wish to deal with Kyuubi again, and before you ask, the whole process of manifestation would take less than a minute, and it won't be a quiet one."
"I see…" Homura let out a defeated sigh, as did everyone else that wished to have the Kyuubi sealed in Naruto. "You may take back the journal, Tomoe Uchiha, and thank you for your testimony." Tomoe dispelled the Genjutsu put on her, before retrieving the book.
"Just one more question to you: how would you describe Naruto Uzumaki to us, when compared to his siblings?" Hiruzen asked of Tomoe, with everyone looking interested in hearing what she had to say.
"With one word: better." Tomoe simply stated.
"In what, exactly?" Kushina asked with narrowed eyes.
"Everything." Tomoe replied with a sense of finality, before leaving to take her place near Mikoto, and letting Fugaku speak up.
"Council of Konoha, after all that was revealed to you, I believe it would be pointless to provide further proof of the fact that our current Jinchuriki are not Heroes, but rather ticking time bombs that can go off at any point when they do not get their candies, so to speak." Fugaku stated to them. "In light of this revelation, and seeing that Lord Namikaze and Lady Uzumaki have failed to take necessary precautions in order to prevent what had happened, I propose the following: Natsu and Narumi are to be placed under constant surveillance of Anbu, to minimize the risks and strengthen their own security; issue a public explanation of what had happened and inform the public of the dangers that the Jinchuriki pose, along with detailed explanation as to how best to deal with them; introduce mandatory mental checks by the professionals, in order to monitor the two and examine their behavior; and finally, demand their reeducation, so as to prevent possible catastrophe. All in favor?" And over two thirds of the Council were, with Minato and Kushina being forced to concede this one.
"And what is to be done about the situation, regarding Naruto Uzumaki?" Amagi suddenly asked. "From the testimony of Izuna Niwa, it is now clear that the environment where Naruto Uzumaki lives is anything but safe and beneficial for a child. Especially when the very mother of that child had raised her hand against the said child on multiple times." That one shocked everyone.
"Shut up, you Kyuubi worshipping…" Kushina was furious at the revelation of that.
"Miss Niwa, is this true?" Koharu asked of the girl, who nodded to her.
"Yes, over the period of six or so months, Kushina Uzumaki had entered into heated arguments with Naruto Uzumaki, demanding that he stop his visits to Lady Amagi and Lady Tomoe, going as far as to threaten him with disinheritance. When he dared to speak back, she would hit him on the face, several times resulting in bruising, and other times, even in bleeding. I was a witness to several of those scenes, with Naruto's sister also witnessing one." Izuna revealed to everyone.
"I can't… Lady Uzumaki, how could you just…" Sagara looked shocked upon her.
"I-It's not what it… I had to, I…" Kushina wasn't able to come up with the response, only making her situation even worse.
"My wife had been provoked into using violence, and it wasn't as bad as you make it sound! We've talked about it, and this was only in the educational purposes, so as to make sure that Naruto doesn't end up in the bad company." Minato added in, so as to defend himself and his wife. "We've already apologized to Naruto and we were trying to make up for it, but this accident…"
"Yet the fact remains that she struck him, and for what? Seeing a priestess and her friend, for not being the same as his siblings, or just because he was a good enough excuse to throw her weight around?" Mikoto asked in a sarcastic tone. "You've always preferred to let the fists do the talking, Kushina, but to take out your anger on Naruto… As Head of Clan Uchiha, I move in the notion of removing Naruto Uzumaki from that family and place in the hands of an adoptive family. I nominate Clan Uchiha for that position."
"NO!" Kushina slammed her fist against the table and rushed towards Mikoto, but Tomoe rose up and stood right in front of her. "Get out of my way, you damned child killing bitch, or I…"
"Or you what?" And in that moment, Tomoe bent a little close to Kushina, and whispered in her ear. "You'll ask your mommy dearest to kill me, like you did with my son?" At that moment, Kushina instantly lost all color, looking at Tomoe with a shocked expression, before wobbling back onto her seat.
"The Council will launch a formal investigation into that matter, so as to determine if what you are saying is true and if the necessary measures need to be taken. Until the conclusion of the investigation, and given the condition of Naruto Uzumaki, the Council considers the matter to be moot. With this, this session of the Council is declared closed." Koharu announced, and soon enough everyone finally started leaving the chambers, until only Tomoe and Kushina were left, with even Minato leaving so as to take care of his duties.
"H-how…" Kushina asked of Tomoe, with her answering.
"From her personally, didn't she tell you of our little run in a few days back?" Tomoe asked of her. "You know, Kushina, I've always suspected that you were a one sick bitch. Having my son murdered by your own mother, that is something I may understand… But to send her after Naruto? Now that is something I didn't expect even from you."
"I d-didn't ask her to kill him, I wanted him to heal… H-how did you know that I…"
"Mito knew, and I suspected that you never lost contact with her, with your mommy dearest paving you the happy way in life: crippling Mito, killing my son, now trying to remove Naruto. Madness really does run in blood, doesn't it?" Tomoe moved closer to Kushina gave her the most threatening glare. "I could kill you with but a single movement of my hand, a single quick draw and your head would be on the floor, and for what you did, I probably should do it right now."
"Then why don't you? Too afraid?" Kushina dared her, with Tomoe chuckling to that.
"Oh no, I am not. The reason why I don't do it is because it would be so simple. No, I want you to pass on a message to Aiwa, and tell her that the next time we meet, I'll make certain that she learns, what it means to lose one's child." Tomoe could see clear fear in Kushina's eyes. "You killed my son through her hands, took away my mother and nearly killed Naruto, just because he wasn't fit for you. Just of striking him, I should already kill you, but I won't. Instead, I'll leave you with a reminder, that from now on, you live on borrowed time." And in that moment, Tomoe hit Kushina with an open palm, pushing her back, while Kushina felt her abdomen burn.
"Agh, what did you do?!" Kushina demanded to know, before seeing a seal form on her abdomen.
"Eye for an eye, Kushina. That's the seal your mom used on my Masamune, but with my own flavor. This seal won't be sacrificing the soul of the sealed on in favor of another, but instead will send it straight towards the Shinigami." Tomoe told her. "You may not die today or tomorrow, Kushina, but you will die for what you did, and when you do, there won't be any heaven or hell waiting for. Only one hungry Death God ready to munch down upon your soul, just as it nearly did on Naruto's. And bear in mind, one wrong move towards Naruto or his sister, and your time is up. Remember that, Kushina, remember it well." And with this warning delivered, Tomoe left the chambers, leaving the broken Kushina behind.
My apologies for the long absence, which lasted a bit longer than I expected. Last week was a tense one for my family, due to the Covid and my uncle and aunt having been hospitalized with it. They are okay now, no worries, and I would also like to thank you all for your congratulations and support you've shown so far.
I know that this chapter was supposed to be longer, but due to all the stress with Covid, I decided to simply make it as quickly as possible. I don't have anything long winded to say, only that I ask you to review, share your opinion, suggestions for the harem and weapons, as well as ask questions that you have. Hope that you like this chapter.
Next time: Akeno and Mito meet; Naruto and Parvati; The One-Eyed Dragon at the Gates