Chapter 3 - War Preparations
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Organization 13 Theme)
Ultimecia's Former Throne Room
Naruko sat on her ancestor's throne and reflected over her life. Even now, her mind dangerously lurks towards the path of doubt. She shook her head at such ridiculous ideas. Naruko was well aware of how faithful her progenitor was and how he assumed the best in everything. Even now Minato Namikaze vexes his own spawn by planting seeds of doubt beyond the grave.
"For 8, nearly 9 years I have waited for this. I will not cower and hope that things become better by ending this now. I will not be the one to burn the leaves of the "great" tree, but I will be there to watch it fall." Naruko said to herself as she pondered back to her past.
A day where a small adolescent child, a toddler, was to be tortured and abused like a wild beast found in the wild.
"I wonder how you would have planned things out ancestor." Naruko said as she saw the painting of Ultimecia in the distance. Naruko sighed, "I wish I could see you once more ancestor. You may not be the caring or encouraging motherly type. Even if you are a disgraced Uzumaki, you at least deserve some freedom. All you did was reject the system of the shinobi. Is it really wrong to want change and to escape conformity?" she asked almost as if she expected for the painting to speak.
Naruko sighed yet again, she started to feel as if she might have trouble breathing with all this sighing. Ignoring that tangent, she stood up and went back to her bedroom. Tonight and the next morning was filled with much work. For tomorrow, she would present herself to her supposed godmother, Tsunade Senju. While Naruko may have an eternal battle with doubt and struggling to maintain some optimism. She knew that while this seemed like a golden opportunity to have a sannin on her side. Naruko still had to beware the limits of Tsunade's loyalties.
At the end of the day, Konoha was her grandfather's village that he created. Even if Hashirama's ideals were twisted by idealists who saw friendship as a way to look good while hoping to one day crush their competition. There is nothing to say that some doubts would enter the woman's mind faster than the finest alcohol could reach her taste buds. If family is important to Tsunade, she could either side with her deceased family's legacy or her living family's suffering.
'I would have to test her first and see where her loyalties lie.' Naruko thought as she went through her wardrobe.
Putting aside her worries of the future, Naruko had to prepare for the present as she had to continue playing fairy tales. For tonight, Naruko would be someone's fairy godmother and would grant a certain girl's wish. It was about time to show a certain noble clan that their power is nothing to fawn over. Like many clan heads, they were merely thugs with high titles who banded together under a single banner. What a better way to show current and future potential enemies her might.
Naruko casted a minor enchantment to turn her hair long and silvery. While wearing dark leather armor and a purple cloak to cover her body as well as a small veil that she could see through while others would be unable to see her face. An extra seal would also help cover her mana signature and her face to avoid those Hyuga from being able to identify her.
Forest of Death
After exiting the castle and returning to Konoha. Kingu had fetched another clay warrior and had them set up a carriage. Stepping inside the carriage, the coachman had turned to Naruko and asked for her travel destination.
"Training ground 8, it's a wild guess but it is my best assumption that we will find our target there." Naruko said as the coachmen nodded and drove towards the training ground.
Less than a half hour later, Naruko had looked out to see the Hyuga princess huffing and sweating from a long day of intense training. Perhaps now, Kurenai Yuhi had stopped babying her and treated her like a soldier in training. Naruko smiled as she saw Hinata having made progress with her goal to become stronger. A small healing and debuff spell should be enough to bring this girl back to her peak.
Seeing as there was a small hill and a tricky path continue making her way up to Hinata's exact location. Naruko had stepped out from the carriage and approached her.
"You've done well Hyuga princess." Naruko said with a voice of maturity and elegance.
Hinata stiffened as she remembered the voice, but having never met Naruko in person did make it impossible to identify her. So all Hinata could do was know her by the moniker, Artemisa The Apprentice of Ultimecia The Witch.
"A-Artimesia-s-san?" Hinata stuttered.
Naruko shook her finger, "Do not shake in fear my dear. What happened to the strong girl from the preliminaries? Did my coaching prove to be ineffective?" she asked before flaring a tidbit of her power. "Was I wrong to put my faith in you?" she asked.
Hinata quickly shook her head, "No, you aren't wrong. You just surprised me is all." she answered.
"Good answer, anyways little princess. I suppose now is the time for change." Naruko said as she turned towards her carriage. "Follow me little princess." she said as Hinata gulped.
From there Hinata was surprised to see an actual carriage. The coachman offered his hand and helped both women up before signalling both horses to begin moving again.
"Where to milady?" the coachman asked.
"The Hyuga estates, it shouldn't be too difficult to miss. It's made of cards and will fall shortly after our arrival." Naruko said as the coachman nodded and redirected the horses.
Hinata continued to look nervous, "You're not here just to take me home are you?" she asked.
Even if Hinata could see through Naruko's veil, the timid girl would have been frightened by Naruko's grin. So for now, the mage's silence was enough of an answer for Hinata. The poor girl was going to have the biggest change in both her life and in her clan's structure.
Hyuuga compound
"Now my dear, no doubt Hiashi-teme will try to floor you. He is merely an overgrown sperm whale that managed to fit into a pond. Otherwise you will need a little bit of a boost just to stand up." Naruko said as she raised her hand over Hinata's head. Then beginning to cast a few healing spells, "Esuna, Curaga, Regen. I know the last spell is redundant, but you may need it should you take damage." she said as Hinata let out a sigh that sounded more like a pleasured moan.
"I feel good." Hinata said with a silly smile plastered on her face.
"Dear, save that smile for your when you consummate your marriage to your prince." Naruko said as Hinata's face suddenly turned red. Naruko chuckled at the Hyuuga's change in demeanor, "Now now, I am just having fun. You should lighten up too. As things will only become much more intense from here on out." she said as the coachmen helped them out of the carriage.
"Um, is it ok if I ask what you are planning?" Hinata asked bravely.
Naruko chuckled, "You will see very soon little princess. I am your fairy godmother after all." she said as they made their way.
As Naruko lead the way, they were confronted by two Hyuuga guards. Both looked very serious and an important detail Naruko took into her mind as she walked in. Neither had their forehead protector over their foreheads and had nothing to hide.
"Stop right there! Hinata-sama, your father is aggravated for your tardiness!" one of them said.
"Do not answer to them little princess." Naruko told her as they were about to pass only to be blocked by the two guards.
"You are not welcomed here stranger. Take off your disguise and be on your way." one of them said threateningly.
"Fool, you believe you have authority over me." Naruko said as she angered the man.
The Hyuuga guard soon reached out with the intent to physically throw her out, "You commoner filth! You think you can talk down to an elite!?" he asked.
"No, you have it all wrong. You are the filth, better yet. You are a disease. Break." Naruko casted as the guard immediately turned to stone. The other guard backed off in fear, "You Hyuuga main branch members really are a disease. All talk about you're invincibility and whatnot. Take away your voice and you are nothing." she said as she left the petrified man there.
"What did you do!? Turn him back!?" the other guard demanded.
"Are you deaf as well? Perhaps experiencing punishment at first hand will break your arrogance. Break." Naruko said as the other guard was turned to stone as well.
Hinata stumbled towards the guards and poked them, "Are they...?" she tried to ask.
"They are very alive little princess, but they may as well be dead as they will still live like any ordinary human being. Sadly, they will still feel pains such as hunger and sleep but never receive either." Naruko answered coldly before heading towards the meeting room.
On the way there, Naruko had released an experimental version of killing intent. Unlike her ability to flare her mana and force people to cower similar to KI. Naruko was in fact releasing miasma and forcing the branch members to back off while the more big headed main branch members tried to challenge her only to immediately feel ill by the air surrounding her. Luckily she also casted Shell on Hinata before having surrounded herself with the miasma.
By now, Hinata would have been on the floor and coughing violently if it wasn't for that spell. So while Hinata was bit frightened by the sight of her fellow clan members having to run away or fall ill. For some reason, she had her complete and total faith in her alleged fairy godmother. It was because of Artemisia that she survived Neji's onslaught and grew the strength to defeat him and gain her confidence to kiss her crush.
"Oh good, the overgrown warlock and his trolls are having a meeting. It looks so important, I must announce our presence." Naruko said as she channelled magic into her palms.
"Artemisia-sama, please no. Those doors are..." Hinata's opinion was ignored as the doors were burned and kicked down.
Hiashi and the elders stood up and faced Naruko who came in through the destroyed doorway. A couple of the elders started to pant as the miasma started to affect their breathing patterns.
"Greetings oh wise and mighty Hyuuga clan elders and head." Naruko said with much sarcasm in her voice.
One of the elders stood up, "Who are you? You are trespassing!" he said threateningly.
"Me? No one that you've heard of, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't scare you." Naruko replied.
"Then you are trash and I will be the one to clean it up!" the elder said as his activated his dojutsu and tried to strike Naruko's heart.
"Break." Naruko casted upon the time he reached her.
The elder's eyes widened as found himself turning to stone, "Juzo!" one of the other elders called out.
"Whoops." Naruko giggled as she pushed the stone statue into the ground making him shatter. "How clumsy of me." she said sarcastically.
"You will pay for that!" another elder said as two more followed him.
"No one insults the elite Hyuuga clan!" another said as they tried to strike Naruko.
The girl grinned behind her veil as she casted another spell, "Slow, Stop." she casted as the elders moved at a slower pace as their Byakugan had deactivated.
"What is this? Why isn't my Byakugan working?" one asked.
"You will never know." Naruko said as several phantom looking weapons surrounded her.
In a blink of an eye, Naruko pulled out a small one handed axe and gurkha machete before slitting their throats and cutting off their limbs. The elders choked on their blood as they collapsed and before they knew it, they were dead and forgotten by the rest of the world. A couple of the remaining elders started to sweat at the fact that just four of their own clan members, men they had grown and trained with over the years were killed by some clanless woman from outside of the clan.
(Final Fantasy 8 OST - Liberi Fatali)
"Perhaps Itachi Uchiha was an unconscious killer. If you count the two guards. I have wiped out six of you prestigious Hyuuga. Then again, four of you were weak and elderly. Using your continued existence as an excuse to assume you are superior." Naruko stated as she carefully stepped over the littered body parts.
"How dare you!? You will be executed for your actions!" yelled the father of Hiashi, Hibachi.
"I already have. I have disgusting blood all over me from a filthy codger who had the audacity to attack me." Naruko said as she revealed the blood on her sleeve. "Nethereless, there will be less stains once this is over and you cave in to my demands." she said as she lead Hinata.
"Hinata! Why are you letting this scum into our domain?" Hiashi demanded as Hinata started to cower.
"Do not fret Hinata, you are as weak as you let yourself be. Take a look at your father, he may act as if he was in power but listens to elderly men twice if not three times his age." Naruko said with a giggle. "If a supposed elite is supposed to be strong. Why do you cower before an old man?" she asked.
"Do not..." another elder tried to say only for his head to be trapped in an orb of water.
"I was not speaking to you. I speaking to the leader of the Hyuuga clan." Naruko said as she raised her hand and started making a fist which started to drown the man.
"Let him go at once!" Hibachi demanded only to be ignored as his fellow elder fell limp.
Meanwhile Hiashi was pondering such power, 'Could this woman be related to the nidaime? No, the nidaime couldn't turn people to stone or summon weapons.' he thought.
"Now that we have yet another dead clan member. Are you ready to listen to demands or prattle on until you face extinction?" Naruko asked.
Hiashi grunted in frustration, "What do you demand?" he asked.
Naruko grinned once again, "The end of slavery." she said.
"Slavery?" Hiashi asked.
"Do not act as if you are a fool. Unless you were born stupid that is." Naruko stated as the man glared at her. "The end of your disgusting seal. It is pointless and you are harming your own which will lead to a civil war and the end of your clan." she said.
"Lies, it is servitude and the branch family must understand who are the elites." Hiashi started only to be interrupted.
"That is slavery, perhaps you were born stupid." Naruko stated.
"Regardless of your insults, the Branch side will not retaliate. They will die before removing the seal as it cannot be removed." Hiashi replied adementaly.
Naruko frowned and for some reason, Hinata felt it and cowered, "Try telling that to Ao of Kiri. The Branch Hyuuga who he killed wasn't able to keep his dojutsu until death." she said as Hiashi gritted his teeth knowing someone outside of the village stole his clan's bloodline. "Besides, all you Hyuuga are good for is hitting flesh that is right in front of you. If it has armor, fights from a distance or knows real fuinjutsu, your clan is good for nothing." she explained before giggling again. "To add salt to the wound, your eyes can't even cancel genjutsu. They see through it, but genjutsu isn't only the art of messing with your vision." she said furthering angering the Hyuuga clan head.
"Have you only come to mock me?" Hiashi asked as his Byakugan was active but still couldn't see who was hiding behind the veil.
"You have your own elders to thank for that. Tell me Hyuuga-San, what is the real reason for enslaving your own kinsmen?" Naruko asked.
"It's obvious! The weak are to remain weak! And serve the strong!" Hibachi yelled only to be struck by lightning coming out of Naruko's finger.
"I'm waiting." Naruko said while sounding displeased.
"It is as my father said." Hiashi said earning a head shake from Naruko.
"I see that's what you tell yourself. When in reality, it is because you are weak." Naruko stated as Hiashi stood up and looked down at her shorter form.
"How dare you call me weak?" Hiashi asked.
Naruko continued to giggle, "Because you are. I know the truth, that brand is stolen and not only that. It was made 60 years ago by a clan head who mocked by most of his peers for being pathetic." she said.
Hiashi raised his eyebrows, "What is this nonsense?" he asked.
"You don't know? I suppose your loving father was too pathetic to tell you. Then again, you would eventually overthrow him if you knew." Naruko said as Hiashi looked at his father who was gritting his teeth. "I found the journals Hibachi-teme, your father was weak. His ninjutsu poor, his control fine for a fresh chunin and fine precision, but Konoha is known for strength and mocks anything that doesn't require real chakra. Your Gentle Fist not requiring anything but your dojutsu." she started to explain.
'Artemisia-sama is treading on thin ice. I know she's going to make tou-sama explode.' Hinata thought as she wanted to hide under her sweater as if she were a turtle.
"So he poisoned his father and most of his council at the time. He turned on his brother who was meant to be the next head and brought word of the seal to protect the dojutsu when in reality it was to enslave anyone who tried to overthrow him." Naruko said before revealing a page from her dress. She then rolled it onto a ball and gave it to Hiashi, "However, Hibachi turned on his father when learning the truth. Your grandfather was murdered by his own son." she said.
"Hiashi! Do not dare read that! This woman is witch like Ultimecia who spreads lies and distrust!" Hibachi yelled only for Hiashi to read the note.
It was his grandfather's last note. Detailing Hibachi's attitude at the time and how the man seeked to have him killed and replaced by one of his nephews. The old man was clearly fearful of Hibachi's progress and believed Hibachi would turn on him. It went on to describe Hibachi as an ungrateful brat that dared to surpass him. Now the man had planned to have a squad kill him should he not place the caged bird seal on him.
"You killed my grandfather because he feared your strength." Hiashi said as he quickly blocked his father's attacks.
"And now you will die! Just like your brother!" Hibachi said as he engaged the man in a fight.
Naruko groaned, "I have no time for this. Doom." she casted as numbers started to appear over Hibachi's head.
The two older Hyuuga stopped as they noticed the strange numbers. Hibachi started to cough violently coughing before making a loud gasp. Hiashi and Hinata both activated their Byakugan and looked at the numbers. While the numbers did disappear, they couldn't verify it as genjutsu as the spell's effect had surrounded Hibachi's body. Though they couldn't be sure what was happening as it's effect has yet to take place.
"What have you done you witch!?" Hibachi demanded.
"I exceeded the shinigami's job. You won't have to worry about who is stronger or weaker anymore once that timer hits 0." Naruko said with a face full of pleasure.
"He's dying?" Hinata squeaked.
"Yes, a fitting end for a man who might as well believed he was immortal." Naruko stated as she placed a hand over her veil to simulate laughter.
"You bitch! And you Hiashi! You and your worthless daughter brought this filth into our domain!" Hibachi yelled as he was ready to lose his sanity. Naruko scooted back and placed a comforting shoulder, "It wasn't enough that unlike Hizashi, you failed to produce a strong male heir! He at least produced a prodigy we could mold! Instead you made a meek girl and a stubborn girl who cannot fight anyone other than the meek girl!" he yelled.
"Now now Hinata, he's just mad because he's going to die and had nothing worth remembering him for other than treachery." Naruko said as Hinata started to shake while the remaining two Hyuuga elders made their way out of the room in fear of what would transpire with the new knowledge.
"Well I am not the one who shall perish. I will be seeing that the clan is ruled under me and not an old bag of bones. I can clearly see why my own mother gave me such cold eyes since my birth." Hiashi said as Hibachi gritted his teeth.
"This is why I kept the tradition you ungrateful brat. Had Hizashi been more subservient, you would have been dead long ago!" Hibachi yelled as he decided to take Hiashi's life before dying himself.
"Hinata look away." Naruko said as she covered the girl's eyes as the two Hyuuga engaged in battle.
By the time it was over, Hiashi had taken some significant hits that had disabled an arm and dislocated a few bones in his legs with a few broken ribs. All for not taking his father too seriously for having grown old. Regardless, Hibachi was in much worse shape, but was too adamant to keep fighting despite the fact that he looked he was flattened by a train. Sadly for Hibachi, while he did have a reasonable attainable goal.
He still failed to murder his first born like he did his second. With one last loud gasp, Hibachi clutched his heart before vomiting his blood and tumbling around the room and collapsing onto the floor. Naruko shrugged her shoulders as she really wasn't sure what to expect in the end when watching the two fighting. Though she was concerned for Hinata's wellbeing as the girl was whimpering loudly as she could feel tears coming out of the girl's eyes.
Hiashi took a deep breath before turning toward Naruko, "Now then... leave. Hinata and I have much to discuss." he said.
Naruko quickly whispered something into Hinata's ear, "Very well, Hinata-chan. Please do not fret and get everything off your chest." she said as she left the room. "I will be waiting outside." she said with a smirk.
Using a quick rewind spell, the destroyed doors were restored and placed back in their proper condition. All the while Hiashi was intending to physically punish Hinata. Which only ended with Hinata raising her head and revealing her insane grin and crushing her father's hand.
"Hinata, unhand me! I am your father!" Hiashi ordered.
"You lost that right Hiashi-teme. Now you will be punished for your poor life choices." Hinata said as her grip tightened.
"Do as I command!' Hiashi yelled as he slapped Hinata and made her face turn away.
Hinata chuckled, "Now you've done it." she said before gripping his neck and tightening it.
Back outside, many of the Hyuuga from both sides had arrived to find Naruko standing outside of the council room. All while many of the young children winced as they could hear bones snapping while the adults covered gagged at the sounds of squelching and pleads.
"NO! H-Hinata... p-p-please I-I a-am your father, i-if I've done something wrong. I-I w-will make it up to YAAAAHHHHH!" Hiashi screamed.
"You are too far gone from being redeemed you sack of crap." Hinata said before a louder snap could be heard along with some squelching.
"SHE'S KILLING ME! SOMEONE PLEASE STOP HER!" Hiashi screamed.
Naruko chuckled loudly like a madwoman as the doors opened. The laughing died down upon hearing the gasps of the whole clan. Hinata came out covered in blood as she dragged out Hiashi by his hair while maintaining the smile you would see from a child upon receiving a christmas gift. It also appeared as if Hinata cared very little for what her fellow clan members were thinking as they saw her.
"Tou-sama and I have come to agreement. As 90% of the elders are now deceased and tou-sama's spine is not broken in half. I will now lead the Hyuuga through a chosen representative." Hinata announced as many gasped. "My first order of business is to completely remove the caged bird seal. Any main branch members wishing to challenge my decision will be donated to science as a live cadaver." she added.
Cadavers are supposed to be deceased so they can safely have their remaining functioning organs transplanted onto living patients. While more organs are available if the cadaver is alive... this should not be difficult to understand at this point.
"And should defy Hinata-hime will be facing myself, Artemisia Apprentice of Ultimecia." Naruko announced as she placed a hand over Hinata's shoulder.
And thus, the Hyuuga clan was to either accept becoming a single entity or face annihilation. Many more would fall before the former would be accepted.
The next day, at the castle
Naruko giggled at the fond memory of last night's events. The Hyuuga clan was finally a single entity and would no longer follow such ridiculous barbaric actions such as slavery. To think that after stealing all that intel lead to a prideful man killing his father and brother to become clan head in order to subjugate anyone else who defied him or became stronger. Of course Hibachi did the same and Hiashi was likely thinking the same. Naruko's proof being Hanabi's attempt to overthrow Hinata to "save her innocent tou-sama" which ended in the girl being given a reality check.
Hanabi was a lot weaker than what she proved to be. Sure she was a prodigy among her age group, but a small child is still that. A small child and one heavily lacking in experience. Whereas Hinata had grown a backbone and actually learned from training harder with others outside of her clan and having taken a toll from fighting Neji. The boy was still having a horrible time trying to prove that fate was real and only existed to be in his favor under certain conditions.
"Hopefully meeting up with Tsunade will be as entertaining. She still needs to fix my new otouto." Naruko said as she sighed and placed her fingers over her forehead. "Oh and let's not forget the Kaguya and his friend with the unstable senjutsu." she added as she stood up and walked to her closet to get dressed again.
Another thing to mention was that while Kingu was retrieving Tsunade and wiping out her more dangerous debt collectors. More of her clay warriors were made to scout Orochimaru's hideout that was located within the Land of Rice. It was a strange tale as Naruko wasn't even completely aware of Orochimaru's intentions at the time or his presence in that country. It was more of a way to secure some power or a back plan to move there should things get out of hand. Instead she ended up relying on the rumor that the Rice Daimyo was being manipulated by an unknown benefactor.
Instead she ended up finding a whole lab and luckily some of her clay warriors made it back intact. Hopefully the failures had wiped out some of Orochimaru's forces and destroyed some resources. While the survivors stole intelligence and managed to obtain help from a man named Jugo who went along with them so long as they too his friend Kimimaro Kaguya who was loyal to Orochimaru. Allegiance was tricky to obtain from the sickly Kaguya at least until the clay warriors presented the evidence of Orochimaru turning his back on them.
Now Naruko was working on a way to treat them both. Kimimaro had lung failure and had no ability to heal him other than restoring his health to extend his life and preventing some coughing. With a few debuffs, Naruko also reduced the random raging on Jugo's part as well as reducing his intake of senjutsu.
Now with the thought of unstable power and limiting such powers. Naruko's thoughts switched back to her real brother.
"Should Menma develop a few functioning brain cells and realize he has free will. No doubt the pervert will limit his actions." Naruko said out loud. With a sigh she realized that she needed a new solution, "While it was out of his control. He is family and nonetheless the fox's true jinchuriki. The last thing I need is Menma to be turned into a weapon let alone a punching bag." she added.
As she finished up, she heard Kingu at the door, "Naruko-sama, the doppelganger of Ultimecia is ready!" he announced.
"Then they are free to retrieve Tsunade Senju and her apprentice. I will prepare myself for her arrival." Naruko replied.
"Indeed, I will prepare brunch upon their arrival." Kingu said before leaving.
Naruko sighed, "Should this go well. I need to prepare to save the fool. However once the time comes for the princess to claim him, he is on his own." she said with a laugh.
While Menma is part Uzumaki, he is not female and will not have some defense against determined women.
With Tsunade
"Are you sure this is safe Tsunade-sama?" Shizune asked nervously.
"Well it's not like the pervert or sensei is any more trustworthy Shizune. Besides, the witch's assistant did save us from those mercenaries and cleared up my debts with my less crazy collectors." Tsunade said as they patiently waited.
A few minutes later, both were on their feet and feeling tense. They could sense a faint amount of miasma coming from the forest. Along with a great amount of power that was hard to ignore and would no doubt attract some attention from the locals in Konoha and prompt an investigation. Although it's not as if they could combat Ultimecia seeing as it was her that was unleashing the energy spike. Even though the clay doppelganger was just an impersonator.
Tsunade and Shizune felt as if challenging this individual would be a poor choice and end with poor results.
"Greetings, Tsunade Senju the Slug Sannin I presume?" "Ultimecia" asked.
Tsunade nodded, "Yes, this is my apprentice Shizune. We're both here to see Naruko-chan." she said.
Ultimecia gave them both a quick scan, "Very well, but know this. Turn on me and the Senju line ends today." she said threateningly as she lead them back into the forest.
The Castle
"Welcome to my domain, I will grant you the highest quality of care during your stay. So long as you show a decent level of respect as I have done for you." Ultimecia stated as she lead them up the stairs towards the entrance.
Shizune was rather frightened by the sight of the old creepy castle type of design. Meanwhile Tsunade was thinking about having second thoughts until her body started marching up the stairs. That one quarter Uzumaki blood was really driving her forward ever since she learned the truth and came back to the village. There was likely nothing that was going to stop that motivation any time soon.
Upon entry, the two women were greeted with the sight of Kingu who was taking a knee, "Milady." he said with a nod.
"Rise Kingu, we have guests. The sannin, Tsunade Senju and her assistant Shizune." Ultimecia announced.
Kingu stood up and bowed his head to the two, "If you will, please remain patient as Naruko-sama has yet to arrive." he stated.
A moment later, Ana had appeared with her scythe in hand and behind her stood Naruko who wore a simple dress. It looked casual yet had an elegant white color design. The dress itself had a single white sleeve with an intricate design with white heeled sandals. Another detail worth noticing was the Uzumaki clan insignia was branded onto a metal patch over her breast.
(A/N: Lunafreya's casual dress with the Uzumaki clan insignia)
Tsunade couldn't believe her eyes. She expected a scared little girl but was presented with a confident elegant woman. Shizune also blushed at the young girl's beauty. Though both agreed that Naruko looked a bit old for a preteen and it wasn't just the attire that made them think that.
"Greetings." Naruko said politely with a slight bow.
"I've taught her well and without harming her as well." Ultimecia whispers into the ears of both women. She then turned back to Naruko, "Naruko, these nice women would like to see you. As I believe this one may have more redeeming qualities than the other sannin." she said as Naruko nodded.
"Yes madam." Naruko said as she perfectly played out the part of a docile respectful girl.
Kingu internally smirked, 'Milady, you would make a fine actress unlike that woman from Snow country.' he thought.
'Brown nose.' Ana thought as if she could read Kingu's thoughts.
"Now then, Kingu has prepared us a fine meal in the hall." Ultimecia said as she lead the group to the hall.
Meanwhile in Mt. Myoboku
Gamamaru sat on his throne like chair and looked over his land. As he smoked his opium, many things came across the sage's mind. Such as, what was his name? Why was he sitting here? Who are these people? Also, where can he get more of this opium? Sadly he could not find the cure for being senile.
Then something much worse had visited his thoughts. Before he knew it, Gamamaru was filled with a large headache that felt as if his mind was being ripped apart and was blown up into shrapnel with the shrapnel trying to break through his head. The pain was unbearable but before he realized it, the elder sage's vision of the future had changed. All the detail and planning of Jiraiya's journey to bring peace had all disappeared and was rewritten. Everything from when the pervert was a young boy up until he took Menma under his wing was just erased.
It's not as if Gamamaru had forgotten the prophecy. No, the elder toad sage had a detailed memory of the whole prophecy but now had his mind had been invaded by new images and messages.
The elder toad sage grunted as he murmured out what he saw, "A child wronged and forsaken by the evils of man. Blessed by a relative forsaken as an evil witch. The witch, a woman who does not bow before the laws of time or the laws of death. Her apprentice, the child who will destroy everything that has wronged and plagued her family." he muttered.
Though most of this rambling could be do to the narcotics he was intaking. If the elder toad sage's prophecy could change or be interpreted incorrectly. Then there was a chance that his new prophecy was either nothing to worry about or something in correct. However he and the rest of his clan would take this too seriously.
"Someone summon J... what was his name again?" Gamamaru asked as his nearest assistant just sweat dropped.
About a couple hours later, Fukasaku and Shima were able to summon Jiraiya who was in a wheelchair. It didn't help that Tsunade gave the hospital more of a reason to extend his care. As soon as his business was over, the doctors and nurses expected him to return to continue his care for at least another three days. Which was pretty much an eternity since he really needed to train Menma to win and subdue Naruko since he assumed the witch had manipulated her. It should be simple since the boy is willing to do anything for the greatness of the village.
"So what is it this time old man?" Jiraiya asked.
"Who the heck are you?" Gamamaru asked which only took another hour worth of talking just to explain why they were having this meeting. "Ok, to keep it brief. The prophecy has changed, drastically if I do say so myself." he said.
Jiraiya's eyes widened, "What's changed?" he asked.
"Eh? Changed about what? What are we talking about?" Gamamaru asked.
"The prophecy!" Jiraiya answered.
"Oh yeah, you will no longer be the teacher of the savior who will bring peace. Instead, you will have invoked the fury of another child and the ire had brought them into the arms of someone who is described as purely evil. Who plans to have retribution." the elder sage explained.
"Well what exactly did I do?" Jiraiya asked.
"That is for you to find out. You are the one who has likely caused this change. It is your duty to fix it at once before calamity arrives!" Gamamaru ordered as he looked down at Jiraiya with critical eyes.
Jiraiya gulped, "I'll try to handle this! I'll see what I can do as soon as I get out of the hospital. For now I guess I'll just have to leave Menma on his own a bit longer." he said.
"We can watch over Menma-chan for the while Jiraiya-chan!" Fukasaku said.
"The boy does need some guidance. He can't be left alone for too long especially with Jiraiya-chan's perverted tendencies distracting him." Shima said.
"That's great! I'll send the kid a note and he can summon you two when he needs the help." Jiraiya said with two thumbs up before disappearing back to the hospital.
Shima noticed an odd look on her husband's face, "Something wrong?" she asked.
"The prophecy, it may not be simple to avoid seeing as Jiraiya-chan is not very good at handling these situations. Even if he were to fix them, there's no telling if the prophecy will return to its original state or change once again." Fukasaku stated as Shima contemplated his words.
Back at the castle
Surprisingly enough, Ultimecia proved to be a hospitable host and provided amazing food. Though in secret, Naruko had to figure out how to cook for herself while teaching Kingu since he doesn't need food but relies on mana and clay to literally sustain himself. Ana being the only other human working under Naruko was only a small child when she was found. So it's not like the sorceress's apprentice could force a child to learn cuisines to cook for her.
In between moments, Tsunade hesitantly communicated with Naruko using the most basic greetings such as asking about the weather. Which Shizune found odd considering that her teacher, likely the strongest woman in the world, was acting like a nervous school girl speaking to her idol. Although Shizune wasn't much more confident either as she felt very out of place. Then again, it was her duty as a loyal apprentice to follow her teacher's wishes and help her on her journey. Which is a major upgrade compared to going to bars and casinos.
'The last thing I need is a random middle aged man groping or cat calling me.' Shizune thought with a shiver.
"Tsunade-dono, while I stated that respect will be met with respect as well. I cannot help but to feel as if you are acting in a similar manner to a shy school girl." Ultimecia stated as Tsunade scratched her cheek nervously.
She then dropped a fork, "Shizune help me. My old age makes simple things difficult for me." Tsunade said as she dragged her apprentice down.
"Tsunade-sama, what are we doing?" Shizune asked.
'My creations may be made of wax and clay therefore having wax in their ear, but I am not deaf.' Naruko thought as she was less than amused.
After a few minutes of listening to that rambling and muttering. Tsunade and Shizune came back up with somewhat confident smiles on their faces. Though unaware that Naruko awakened to her sensory skills a long time ago and could tell they were still nervous.
"Is something on your mind Tsunade-san?" Naruko asked politely.
"Yes um, Naruko what is your opinion of Konoha in general." Tsunade said hoping that her hate was just below her own level and not at Orochimaru's.
Naruko narrowed her eyes, "It's full of evil and hypocrites. They call the old man a god and he's just a spineless man who follows whoever gives him the most benefits." she stated.
"Oh? Is it just Sarutobi-sama that you hate?" Shizune asked without realizing how foolish it was.
The clay imposter of Ultimecia would have started sweating if she was capable of such a function. Luckily the room was cool which at least prevented her from melting. Naruko was also doing a good job of restraining herself from smashing a plate over Shizune's head.
"No, the codger is just part of the reason." Naruko said with a lot of restraint. To the point Tsunade wanted to slap her apprentice on her head, "The village itself is full of evil as I said. They act as if this is a home full of love and compassion. When in reality, they are just trying to humanize themselves and make others look like villains. Ignoring wishes and requests unless they benefit from it. And acting upon their own beliefs or whoever has the loudest voice." she explained coldly.
Shizune shivered, "I see, I apologize for my stupid question." she said.
"Naruko, by chance what are your plans for the village?" Tsunade asked.
"I want to leave the first chance I get. Preferably if the hokage is forced to step down or dies before anyone on the council tries to stop me." Naruko replied.
"If not, then I will have to step in." Ultimecia stated as Tsunade nodded.
"What is your relationship with Ultimecia-san?" Tsunade asked.
"She's like the family I never had. She seems scary..." this earned a critical eye from the clay imposter. "But she's more civilized and not a monster like others make her to be. She even helped me when I was younger but couldn't get too close until now." Naruko explained.
"I see, now what do you think of me?" Tsunade asked as she expected some hate.
Naruko put her fork down and looked Tsunade in the eye, "Nothing." she said as Tsunade lowered her head. "I was not aware of you and you were not aware of me. Ultimecia-shishou told me what they did, but even then. We haven't met until now. So we can only begin whatever kind of relationship you want starting now." Tsunade raised her head and smiled.
"Then is there anything I can do for you? I am a well renowned medic." Tsunade said.
'Is now really a good time to boost your image?' Naruko wondered.
"Tsunade-sama, I don't think..." Shizune tried to say only to be interrupted by Ultimecia.
The imposter stood up to announce what she had to say, "Actually if you are as good as you say. There is a favor Naruko and I wanted to ask of you. Only we've been testing you this whole time to see if you are any different from the filthy toad and senile ape." she said.
Tsunade ignored the remark, "What is it? I'm sure I can do it!" she said sounding determined.
"Tsunade-sama!" Shizune called out.
"Shizune, I can handle this!" Tsunade argued.
"Very well, let me show you what why we require your expertise." Ultimecia said as she lead the way.
Laboratory
The group made its way through the labyrinth within the castle. Eventually making it to the doors leading up to the homemade lab that Naruko made. From there, Ultimecia order Kingu and Ana to open the doors and revealed the giant tarp covering the container.
"Ok, what exactly do you need me to do?" Tsunade asked as she looked at the various science equipment around the lab.
"Naruko dear, if you will." Ultimecia said as she gestured for Naruko to remove the tarp.
Both Tsunade and Shizune gasped as they were horrified to at the sight of a child floating in the container.
"This boy is no ordinary child. He was created using Minato Namikaze's DNA along with the cells of your grandfather, Hashirama." Ultimecia stated as Tsunade balled her hands.
"Is the boy ok?" Shizune asked as she covered her mouth in horror.
"He's stable, so long as he is in the tank. The liquid material is keeping his body healthy and constantly keeping his internal organs from rotting away. However he still needs oxygen." Ultimecia answered as Naruko stroked the glass.
Tsunade did her best to restrain herself, "Who made him?" she asked as her breathing was reduced to huffing.
"An elderly crippled man named Danzo. He claims that he does his actions for Konoha when in fact it is so he can become a ruler regardless of whether or not it's Konoha." Ultimecia answered as she knew Tsunade was ready to commit a massacre.
"I'LL KILL THAT BASTARD MYSELF!" Tsunade yelled as she was about to leave and return to the village to do just that.
"Not just yet, do control yourself now Tsunade-dono. As there are some things far worse than death." the clay impostor stated as she revealed the mirror that showed the world through Danzo's functioning eye.
"What is that?" Tsunade asked.
Ultimecia smirked, "Danzo has crossed me before and as the man enjoyed manipulating others. I took the liberty of implanting a seed to allow me to control him. However he does have free will when I leave him alone." she explained as she also revealed a small microphone and a pair of gloves. "Observe Tsunade-san." she said as she took both items.
Tsunade watched as the mirror showed Danzo speaking to an orange haired man and blank masked ANBU. Tsunade gritted her teeth knowing that Danzo still had his army of stooges active and no doubt her former sensei either let it happen or is too stupid to realize it. However her anger subsided as Danzo's screams could be heard and the view was obscured as the elder man was running around clutching his head before falling down on the ground.
"Danzo-sama? Are you ok?" asked one of the ROOT ANBU.
Ultimecia smirked, "The Yamanaka is attacking me with his mind techniques! Kill him at once!" she ordered through Danzo's voice.
The orange haired man looked in confusion, "Danzo-sama, I have done no such thing! You have to believe me when I say I am loyal to no one else!" he said.
"What are you waiting for? Why do you hesitate? Do you not serve me?" Ultimecia asked through Danzo's voice.
"Yes Danzo-sama!" the other ROOT ninja stated as they quickly dispatched the Yamanaka and decapitated him after a brief resistance.
Ultimecia laughed as she put away the microphone, "I will give you control one of these days should you earn the right." she told Tsunade who actually enjoyed seeing Danzo suffer for once. "Now then, are you willing to assist Naruko and myself with little Roxas?" she asked as she referred to the boy in the container.
Tsunade took a deep breath, "I'll take a look into it and work as soon as I can." she said before Naruko hugged her waist.
"Thank you." Naruko said.
Tsunade smiled as she hugged the girl back, "Anything for you Naruko-chan. I won't hurt you like anyone else." she promised.
The next day
Menma sat on top of one of the logs at Training Ground 7. He spoke with the elder toad sages who told him that they were ready to help him out with his training when he needed it. Menma thanked them for the offer, but he had a lot of things on his mind. Mostly about his sister's abuse because Jiraiya and Hiruzen assured him that she would be fine and would be an innocent distraction while Jiraiya trained him to be stronger.
At some point, Menma decided to be crazy like his mother and break into the hokage's office. From there he found the notes and letters between Jiraiya and Hiruzen. They were hoping to manipulate a prophecy that even Menma wasn't aware about. All the boy knew at the time was that he had to be the hero of Konoha that his father wanted him to be. All while taking care of his sister. There was also some other compartment filled with some other materials that Minato and Kushina left for him and Naruko. Except it was safeguarded by a blood seal that no one could open except for the children.
However Hiruzen had that locked behind another sealed container. Which only infuriated Menma that the old man had the audacity to act like a grandfather and yet he was hiding things and letting Naruko take all the hits. Menma may not be a natural genius like other "prodigies", but he could only assume that they wanted to force her loyalty by giving her the fear of god.
"I bet Kakashi sensei got off with a slap on the wrist." Menma muttered.
"Hopefully not, I would think the old man has grown significantly weaker." said a feminine voice.
Menma turned to see his Naruko had made her way towards him. He smiled as he was finally able to meet his sister for the first time. Menma also realized how beautiful his sister had become while he wasn't in her life. It was like a younger Kushina with Minato's blond hair and blue eyes. Though her beauty couldn't top Hinata if the girl wasn't hiding behind all that baggy clothing.
'Maybe Hinata-chan should try on a dress like nee-chan's. Wait why am I thinking about Hinata-chan!?' Menma thought while filled with panic.
"Hello Menma." Naruko greeted in a neutral tone.
"Nee-Chan? Is that really you?" Menma asked.
"Yes, I'm your alleged sister." Naruko said as Menma tried to hug her only to be pushed away. "I'm sorry, I don't hug strangers."she said.
"I'm your brother! Your older brother!" Menma argued.
"And yet you're as short as a toddler." Naruko mocked as Menma fumed and was ready to explode and rant about his height.
Ignoring Menma's height complex, Naruko went straight to business, "Have you finally seen things with your own eyes or are you still blind and require someone else to see for you?" she asked.
"What?" Menma asked as he took a minute to comprehend her words. "Oh yeah, I'm making my own decisions now, but I think the toad sages are going to be watching me sometimes." he said.
"I see, you should remain under their radar. So cancelling the contract would create more conflict, but that doesn't stop the toad from restricting your freedom." Naruko pointed out.
This confused Menma at first, "What do you mean?" he asked.
"Jiraiya can easily have you reverse summoned whenever he feels like it. The same will be said for those elders." Naruko said as Menma started to become worried. "Do not fear, unlike Jiraiya. I am an Uzumaki and I will prepare the proper seal to prevent such an action at a level they cannot hope to combat." she stated.
Menma looked hopeful, "Ok, but in the meantime. Can we um…"
"Speak your mind." Naruko told her brother.
Menma couldn't hope but to feel shy, "Can we hang out? I always wanted to meet you but ero-sennin kept saying that training was more important, but you already know why I shouldn't listen to him anymore." he asked.
Naruko sighed, "If there is time, I will find it. For now, I should inspect you to see if you are not attempting to deceive me. Even then, Jiraiya is quick witted and will have likely placed some sort of surveillance or tracking seal. At the very least something to restrain you and not because of your tennant alone." she explained as she lifted his head up to look at his face.
Menma groaned, "Are you always so serious?" he asked before feeling Naruko grip's tighten and crush his head a bit.
"Should I have a reason to be carefree in this cesspool? Don't believe that this village was any more safe than Kumo or even Iwa foolish brother." Naruko said as she restrained her hate.
"Ouch! Okay! Fine, be super serious! Just let go! You're squishing me!" Menma said in a panicked voice as he tried to pry off her fingers that suddenly felt as cold as ice.
"Very well." Naruko said as she let go and let Menma nurse his chin where she grabbed him. "Also your future bride will not be any more possessive. Especially after I had a hand in her revolution." she said with a smirk.
Menma suddenly feared for his life, "Since when am I getting married!? I never agreed to this!" he yelled.
Naruko laughed, "Foolish boy, you've been claimed and there are very few ways to escape such a fate. Yet I will not tell you any of them." she said whispering the last part making Menma whimper and shiver.
"Why are you women so scary nee-chan? Is it because you're Uzumaki?" Menma asked.
Naruko giggled, "That's a factor, but out of all of them. There's one who is the absolute scariest." she said remembering a certain ancestor.
Menma sighed knowing that he would be surrounded by dangerous women. He was starting to respect the beliefs in that Shikamaru guy who keeps calling them troublesome. Maybe there was a support group for men he could join.
No, the women would find out about it and make things a thousand times more hellish for him and the other poor souls.
"Anyways, what do you want to do now?" Menma asked, hoping to move the conversation forward.
"That's right, I think it's best you meet my mistress." Naruko said as she gestured to him to follow.
Instead, they were interrupted by a figure dashing at them with a lightning technique in hand. Naruko narrowed her eyes before flipping backwards on her hand avoiding the attack. Menma was just shocked and scared by what was going on as he sensed some killing intent around them. When he looked towards the figure, he saw Kakashi huffing as he crashed his arm into a tree that he destroyed.
(Final Fantasy VIII OST - The Extreme)
"Kakashi Hatake, shouldn't you have an extended session with I ? Or did the council bail you out?" Naruko asked as she dusted off her hands.
Kakashi sneered, "I'm a patriot! And I'm not allowing you to corrupt my sensei's son!" he said as he formed several hand seals. "Fire Style: Fire Dragon Jutsu!" he called out.
"Blizzaga." Naruko said as the dragon was stopped by a wall of ice.
"Earth Style: Hiding Like A Mole Jutsu!" Kakashi called out as he sunk into the earth.
Naruko rolled her eyes, "Earthquake." she called out as the earth started to rumble around and forced Kakashi to fly out after being crushed by the earth. "Thundaga!" she called out as she tried to hit Kakashi.
Instead he substituted with a log that was destroyed in a spectacular explosion. Naruko turned around as she saw Kakashi dashing at her with the same lightning technique in his hand. At this point, he was way too predictable.
"Raikiri!" Kakashi yelled as he was determined to pierce her chest.
Such goals could not be reached as Naruko raised her hand in the air again, "Reflect." she casted as the jutsu hit her chest.
Menma watched in horror as he saw Kakashi's jutsu hit his sister. Which only infuriated him as well as filled him with despair. It didn't help that another evil dwelling inside of him was tapping into his emotions and giving him the boost to give into his hatred.
As for Kakashi, he was grinning like a mad man behind his mask, 'Finally, I've avenged you sensei and now your son is safe.' he thought before choking and spitting out a gallon of blood.
"Bwahahahaha! You idiot, no matter how flashy it is. An attack is pointless unless it makes an impact on your intended target." Naruko said before a loud explosion was heard followed by a giant flash of lightning going through Kakashi's back.
"How…" was all Kakashi was able to ask before falling down on his knees.
"Silence." Naruko casted as Kakashi's voice and ability to cast jutsus was temporarily removed. "You are a fool Hatake. An idiot who casts blame on the first thing he's told to hate." she said before moving out of the way.
"Rasengan!" Naruko watched as Menma's one tailed form slammed a dangerous looking Rasengan into Kakashi who crashed through several trees.
Before Menma could continue, Naruko unleashed her adamantine chains and restrained Menma before slapping a seal on him to disconnect the kyuubi's influence. Just leaving Kakashi alone to choke on the internal bleeding that was caused by being struck by two A rank techniques. Although they were nearly finished with his torture.
"Menma-kun, do not use a power that you have very little understanding of." Naruko said in a stern voice.
"But Naruko!" Menma tried to argue.
(End of Song)
"Not now, while I am grateful for the assistance. I trust you more than your tenant." Naruko said as she approached Kakashi's form. "Pathetic, first you lose your eye for harming what you believed to be a demon. Now you almost lose your life for attacking the wrong container." she said before Menma kicked him a few times.
"Bastard! Naruo-nee isn't even the jinchuriki! I am!" Menma yelled as he revealed the seal on his abdomen that made Kakashi's eye widen. "Even worse, my tou-san believed in all the villagers like you! And yet you decided to have your own delusions! So now I'm cutting of my ties with you Kakashi-teme!" he exclaimed.
'NO!' Kakashi thought as he kept choking.
"You are no longer my tou-san's student! You aren't my sensei anymore either! You're real trash that can't look underneath the underneath!" he continued to yell leaving Kakashi to be shell shocked.
Almost as if all he knew was a lie and yet there were two parts of his mind arguing with each other. One pushing the blame to a new source for his hatred, one hoping to keep it the same regardless but both refusing to believe they were in the wrong. With a secret third wanting to accept that Kakashi made a poor choice and no matter how he looks at it, he's a bad person that used his grief as an excuse to stay in the past. The third part was fairly silent and unable to get through to his weak mind.
(Final Fantasy 8 OST - Premonition)
"Do not bother with scarecrow Menma. It has no functioning brain and it's heart never existed to begin with. It's merely a coward hiding behind status and titles." Naruko stated before raising her hand as a signal.
Thus Ana had appeared beside her, "Naruko-sama." she greeted with a bow.
"Ana, you were about to step in earlier, correct?" Naruko asked.
"Hai." Ana replied.
"I can tell Menma's power had surprised you and forced you to stay back until it was safe to interrupt. However, that does not mean I do not have any use for your talents." Naruko explained.
"Naruko-sama?" Ana asked.
Naruko dragged Kakashi up by his hair, "If he believes you need a power with an eye to be invincible. Then show him how it feels to be on the other end with your own power." she said.
Ana paused for a moment to comprehend the request before nodding, "Very well, I will create a public restroom for the birds." she said as she lifted up Kakashi's forehead protector.
'What is this?' Kakashi thought as something about the hooded girl frightened him.
A mere second later, Ana's eyes started to glow and Kakashi grunted loudly before going stiff. Another second later, the man had turned completely into stone. Leaving him as nothing more than an inanimate object. Menma watched with fright as he never witnessed such an exotic power before.
"One more thing." Naruko said as she grasped Kakashi's stone hand. "Let this be more punishment as a lesson will never help him." she said as she applied pressure onto Kakashi's fingers before they snapped off the statue.
"Nee-chan?" Menma asked worriedly.
"We will speak of this at my domain Menma. Unless you're already having cold feet that is." Naruko said.
Menma shook his head, it was too late to turn back now, "No, I'm good! Kakashi-san would have done worse! Family comes first!" he said having gained his free will.
Naruko smiled, "Good, Ana lead the way." she ordered.
Ana smiled as she nodded, "Yes Naruko-sama." she said as she lead them towards The Forest of Death where the portal resided.
Thus the forces of Artemisia have gathered and would soon begin the next step in her plans for her revolution.
TO BE CONTINUED...