Disclaimer: I don't own naruto or any of its characters as they are the property of Masashi Kishimoto.
The author of the cover image is indy-riquez from DeviantArt. You can check the link for the original image in my profile.
Chapter 23: Troubled Feelings
Tsunade stared silently at Kakashi and his team who were currently in front of her at the Hokage's office. The Hokage was sitting down in her chair with her elbows on her desk as she held her hands in front of her face, deep in thought.
''What you tell me is troubling'' Said Tsunade. ''I had hoped for Sasuke to be more cooperative if he saw his former team. His vehemently refusal to come back along with the drastic improvement of his skills will make it very hard for us to take him back. Not to mention that Orochimaru will be more careful in his movements for the next few months after he was just discovered''
''It will be challenging indeed'' Agreed Kakashi. ''According to Jiraiya-Sama's reports, we have around six more months until Orochimaru is ready to take another vessel''
''And another thing'' Said Tsunade, glancing at Kurotsuchi sternly, making the Iwa Kunoichi gulp. ''Girl, are you stupid or what? Getting close to a rampaging Jinchuuriki is one of the most moronic things one can do. You are lucky you got away with only a few burns'' The girl was their best leverage against Ohnoki. If the girl got herself killed in her stupidity just before Tsunade was about to meet with the Tsuchikage it would make things even more difficult.
''Please forgive me, Hokage-Sama'' Said Kurotsuchi with a bow. ''I know it was a very foolish thing to do. It won't happen again'' Despite what she said, Kurotsuchi didn't care for what Tsunade thought of her actions. If the situation presented itself where Naruto would need her help again she would risk her life for the blond without a second thought. She knew that Naruto would do the same for her.
Naruto on his part diverted his gaze towards the floor in shame. His rampage wasn't something he felt proud of and being reminded of it didn't do his mood any favors.
''I also would like to apologize, Hokage-Sama'' Said Yugao, kneeling in front of her leader. ''It is my duty to watch over Kurotsuchi both as a security measure and to keep her safe. I should have been quicker in my reaction to stop her before she could reach Naruto. I will accept any punishment you wish to give me''
''That won't be necessary'' Said Tsunade with a wave of her hand. ''You have been performing your duties splendidly so far and the girl wasn't hurt in any permanent manner. Also, I can't fault the girl too much if her intent was to help Naruto. However, this better not be repeated, that goes for both of you''
''Of course'' ''Roger'' Responded Kurotsuchi and Yugao at the same time.
''And you, Naruto'' Said Tsunade, turning her attention to the blond boy. ''We have to do something about the fox. If you are having trouble keeping it under control that puts us all in a very dangerous situation''
''I know, Tsunade-Baachan'' Said Naruto. ''But from now on I won't depend on the Kyuubi to make me strong. I'll train hard to improve my own strength so what happened with Orochimaru doesn't happen again'
Tsunade smiled at the boy. She knew that Naruto wasn't one to make empty promises, but as a leader, she still had to take the necessary precautions. ''I like your determination, but I'm afraid that depending on your will alone is not a viable option for keeping the Kyuubi in check. Luckily, I have an idea on how to control it but I'll let you know what it is later. Don't worry, it won't bother you or get in the middle your daily activities, I promise'' Added Tsunade when she noticed the worried look that Naruto was giving her.
Naruto nodded somberly at the Hokage, resigning himself to it. He understood where Tsunade was coming from, the Kyuubi wasn't something to take lightly and it was only natural to make sure that the fox wouldn't break loose, but that didn't mean that Naruto felt comfortable knowing that the Sannin didn't trust his resolution enough to keep himself under control.
''Hokage-Sama, I was wondering if I could make a request'' Said Sai as he stepped forward timidly.
Tsunade eyed curiously the ROOT agent, she hadn't trusted the boy since it was assigned to Team Seven and she still didn't like him but he was being polite enough and he had a right to voice his thoughts. However, whether Tsunade agreed to whatever he had to say was another matter entirely. Regardless, she was still willing to hear him out first. ''Go ahead'' Commanded the Sannin.
''Thank you for hearing me out, Hokage-Sama'' Said Sai, proceeding with his request. ''I was wondering if I could stay with Team Seven a while longer. I have enjoyed my time spent with the team and I wish to keep calling them my comrades''
Tsunade could only stare in skepticism at the odd boy. She would not put it past a ROOT member to use emotional manipulation tactics to get their way but they usually sucked at it with their stunned social development and all, and Sai seemed sincere as strange as it was. In her doubt, Tsunade glanced at Kakashi, silently asking for his opinion since he had to have a better feel of Sai's character by now. She was surprised to see the copy ninja nod at her, agreeing with Sai. The female Sannin still had her reservations about letting one of Danzo's subordinates stay with Kakashi's team. However, she had promised that she would only get rid of the boy if he caused trouble and if Kakashi was fine with having the young man on his team Tsunade had no valid reason to tell the boy to get lost. ''Fine, you can stay'' Declared the Hokage.
Sai bowed deeply at Tsunade. ''I appreciate your understanding, Hokage-Sama'' The boy felt so relieved that he could continue nurturing his newfound bonds with his comrades. Also, he was particularly interested in watching some more the relationship Naruto and Kurotsuchi had with each other, as he was still fascinated by it for some reason.
With that matter dealt with, Tsunade turned to her pink-haired student. ''And another thing, Sakura you should finish treating Kurotsuchi's injuries as soon as you can''
Sakura was taken aback by her master's order. She was already going to tend to Kurotsuchi's wounds anyway but she didn't expect the Sannin to care about that since the Hokage didn't even like the Iwa girl in the first place. ''Of course, Tsunade-Shishou. I was going to go to Kurotsuchi's place later to do exactly that, actually''
Kurotsuchi frowned with suspicion at that. The Hokage had treated her like dirt so far, so she wondered why all of a sudden she cared if she got some scars.
''After that, you should use the day to rest properly just to be safe even after Sakura heals you'' Said Tsunade, regarding Kurotsuchi once more.
''But Tsunade-Baachan, I wanted to start training right away and Kurotsuchi was going to help me'' Complained Naruto.
''Help you train, you say?'' Asked Tsunade in bewilderment.
It was then that Naruto and Kurotsuchi widened their eyes in realization. It never occurred to them that Kurotsuchi might not even have permission to train.
''Am I not allowed to train with Naruto?'' Inquired Kurotsuchi with a bit of reluctance, fearing that the woman would say no.
Tsunade seemed to think it over for a moment, frowning in concentration. ''If you want to train with Naruto that's his choice to make if he doesn't mind you around. However, my previous rules still stand: Don't do anything that might hurt Naruto or any of my ninja or you'll pay for it'' Remarked Tsunade with seriousness.
''Thanks, Hokage-Sama'' Replied Kurotsuchi with a small bow. ''I promise I won't put anyone at risk''
''You better not'' Said Tsunade. ''Anyway, I still advise that you postpone your training session until tomorrow and take it easy for today. And no Naruto, this is not up for debate'' Added the Hokage when he saw the blond ready to argue back and stopped him dead in his tracks before he could. After that, Tsunade looked at Kakashi intently. ''Kakashi, I trust that you finished that little task I asked you to do''
''I did. Don't worry about it, Tsunade-Sama'' Responded the copy ninja with one of his eye-smiles while the rest of the team -save for Yugao, who already knew about it- wondered what were the Hokage and the Sharingan user talking about.
''Task?'' As always, Naruto could not keep his curiosity to himself. ''What task did you give Kakashi-Sensei, Tsunade-Baachan?''
''It is of no importance and I don't think it's any of your business, Naruto'' Tsunade scolded the blond. ''That will be all for now, you are dismissed. Naruto, you will be able to train to your heart's content tomorrow if you so wish but I would like that you take a proper breather for once''
Naruto was disappointed to not being able to jump straight into training like he would have hoped but he resolved to use the day to at least think of ways to help him in his training.
And with that, Naruto and company left the office and the Hokage Tower.
''This sucks! I don't understand Tsunade-Baachan sometimes. Why won't she let me go train right now?'' Complained Naruto once he and the rest exited the building and went into the streets.
''I know how you feel, I also would have liked to train as soon as possible'' Added Kurotsuchi. ''At least is just one day, that won't make much difference''
''Kurotsuchi is right, Naruto. You could learn patience from her when you are training together'' Said Kakashi. ''Well, I'm taking my leave. I have things to do, see ya guys later'' Finished the copy ninja with a salute before he vanished in a puff of smoke.
''I'll have to leave too. I want to go read some books at the library, farewell guys'' Said Sai also leaving the group with the intent on doing more research on personal relationships.
The remaining members looked at Sai go until Naruto suddenly got upset. ''Oh crap! I forgot to ask Kakashi-Sensei something!'' Exclaimed the blond.
Sakura sighed at the blond's absentmindedness. ''If you hurry up, you might still be able to catch up to him'' Suggested the pinkette.
''I'll do just that. Thanks, Sakura-Chan!'' Said Naruto before he started speeding off. ''I'll see you later!''
And with that, the three girls were left alone.
Kurotsuchi couldn't help herself from feeling a bit disappointed that Naruto had left so soon, she would have at least hoped to discuss with him their training regime but no matter, they were neighbors so she could always go to his place later when he came back.
''So um, Kurotsuchi-San'' Said Sakura, catching the attention of the Iwa girl.
''Yes?'' Responded Kurotsuchi.
''I think it would be best that I treat your injury right now'' Said Sakura. ''I mean, I'm free at the moment and Tsunade-Shishou stressed that I do it right away so...'' The medic finished awkwardly.
''Sure, now is as good time as any I guess'' Said the tomboy. Also, she was getting tired of constantly changing her bandages. ''Will it take long?''
The medic bit her lip as she thought about the procedure. ''At least several minutes, yes''
Kurotsuchi gave a sigh in resignation. ''I guess there is no helping it then. Let's go to my apartment, I would rather not being on full display in the middle of the street while you heal me''
''I have no problem with it'' Said Sakura.
''You kids go on ahead'' Said Yugao, who had stayed silent until now. ''I want to go crash at my place myself. That last mission left me pretty tired''
''Of course, you go and rest'' Said Kurotsuchi. She knew that the ANBU deserved some time to herself, she was always on duty most of the time.
''Then we'll see each other later. Take care'' Said the older woman with a wave before she turned around and calmly walked away. She knew that the rest of her ANBU squad was already watching over Kurotsuchi ever since they entered Konoha so there was no problem if she wasn't present at the moment.
''See you later, Yugao-San. Thanks for your help in the mission'' Said Sakura amicably with a wave of her own.
''Same. See ya'' Replied Kurotsuchi.
With Yugao gone, Kurotsuchi turned to Sakura to resume their previous topic. ''Okay, let's get going''
''Right'' Answered Sakura as she started following Kurotsuchi as she walked along the street.
The walk towards the apartment complex was silent save for a casual comment here and there on trivial matters like the weather and the like, as the girls didn't think or have any particular topic that they would like to talk about, they just seemed to have trouble connecting with each other. Not to mention, that their last disagreement over Sasuke was still fresh in their minds.
However, as they walked, Sakura was just now taking note that this was the same path she would usually take to get to Naruto's place. She had forgotten for a moment that Kurotsuchi and the blond lived just next door to each other and this was the first time that the pinkette had ever gone to Naruto's building without the intent of seeing her orange-loving teammate. Now that she thought about it, Naruto and Kurotsuchi's relationship was so weird: They had started as enemies, and now they were close friends it seemed, but Kurotsuchi was pretty much dependent on Naruto while she was here in Konoha. That was a very weird thought now that Sakura really pondered on it. Kurotsuchi was a prisoner but it was easy to forget it with the way those two behaved around each other. Sakura had a feeling that there had to be more to their relationship that than but the medic could not put her finger on what it could be.
''Hey''
Sakura was taken out of her focused state and she barely stopped before she walked right into Kurotsuchi who had already stopped.
''Are you alright? You looked distracted'' Inquired Kurotsuchi with a confused look.
''Everything is fine, I was just thinking about something else'' Sakura excused herself. ''Thanks for asking, though''
Kurotsuchi gave the pink-haired girl an odd look before she sighed. ''Whatever. I just wanted to say that we are here''
Sakura looked up to see the familiar sight of the apartment complex that she had visited numerous times in the past, she had been so absorbed in her thought she didn't realize when she got there. ''You know, it feels kind of weird being here and not see Naruto'' Commented Sakura.
''I would suppose so. Come on, this way'' Said the tomboy before she started going up the stairs of the complex and Sakura followed shortly after.
In just a moment they were at Kurotsuchi's door and the Iwa Kunoichi promptly opened it. Then, after Sakura excused herself, both girls entered the apartment.
Sakura stopped in the middle of the small living room to glance around the place uncomfortably, she had never hung out with the tomboy by herself, let alone come into her house.
''You want something to drink? Water or tea perhaps?'' Suggested Kurotsuchi as she went into the kitchen at the other side of the room to open the small fridge.
''Water would be nice, thanks'' Said Sakura politely.
A moment later, Kurotsuchi returned with a glass of water for the pinkette to take.
''Thank you again'' Replied Sakura before she grabbed the glass from Kurotsuchi's hand and gulped the contents down.
Once the medic finished, she gave a content sigh before she regarded Kurotsuchi again. ''You have a nice place. It has a nice feel to it''
Kurotsuchi shrugged in response. ''Well, I can't complain much about it, all things considered''
Sakura nodded in understanding. Even if the place was humble and basic it was a million times better than a cell. ''So, let's take a look at those wounds'' Said the medic lest they fell into awkward silence again.
''Yes please'' Said Kurotsuchi before she took a seat on the sofa and Sakura joined her.
After that, the pinkette proceeded to gently unravel the bandage around Kurotsuchi's neck as the tomboy refrained from cringing in discomfort to the contact with her burned flesh.
Once Sakura was done with that, she quickly passed a Chakra coated hand over the affected area. ''This is good, the Kyuubi's Chakra is completely gone. Now it should be a piece of cake healing the wound properly. When I'm done no one would even be able to tell you used to have this scar''
''Nice to know'' Replied the tomboy as she frowned at the tickling from the weird bubbling-like sensation she felt, caused by the effect of the healing Chakra.
''I'm sorry about the other time, you know'' Said Sakura suddenly, catching Kurotsuchi off-guard.
''What do you mean?'' Asked the confused Iwa Kunoichi.
''That time you talked about Sasuke-Kun, I'm sorry for losing my temper'' Said Sakura meekly.
Kurotsuchi rolled her eyes and kept herself from groaning in exasperation. Yet again the Uchiha managed to pop up in another conversation, she just wished they would stop talking about him altogether. ''He was your teammate. Don't worry, I know that it must be hard detaching yourself from him''
''Maybe but I know how it must look for other people'' Said Sakura while she kept her glowing green hand over Kurotsuchi's neck. ''It must seem like a lost cause, to keep chasing after Sasuke-Kun when he has done everything possible to cut his ties with us but is not so simple. We won't let him go without at least doing our best to bring him back, we have gone through so much together to just give up on him''
''Sakura, I understand, really. I have already talked to Naruto about this and I would like to leave the topic alone, no offense'' Said Kurotsuchi, hoping that they would stop talking about the Uchiha bastard.
Sakura could tell that Kurotsuchi wasn't fond of the topic at hand, so she decided to drop it and without making a scene like last time. For a moment, it seemed like the two girls were going to spend the rest of their time together in silence but the pinkette resolved to make an effort to not let things get more awkward between them. ''And speaking of Naruto, he really did a number on you, I rarely take this long to treat these kinds of injuries'' Said Sakura as she did the finishing touches on Kurotsuchi's neck.
''It was the Kyuubi, not Naruto'' Kurotsuchi reminded the medic with a harsh edge in her voice.
''I know that. You get what I mean. It just took us all by surprise at the time, you just went running all of a sudden, we could do nothing to stop you'' Said Sakura.
''I had to do something. Naruto has been a good friend to me what kind of friend would I be if I don't do the same?'' Responded Kurotsuchi.
Sakura didn's answer for a few seconds as she examined the other girl's now smooth skin signaling a job well done. ''There you go, as good as new'' Exclaimed the pinkette with a smile as she took off her hands.
Kurotsuchi was taken aback by that, she had not expected Sakura to finish so soon. She didn't waste any time and brought her own hand to her neck, rubbing it gently and she could notice that, in fact, her skin felt completely smooth and the pain was gone. ''Wow I can't feel the burn anymore. You are good'' Praised the tomboy.
''It was nothing, but thank you'' Said Sakura with modesty. ''Now let me take care of your hands''
Kurotsuchi nodded and extended her bandaged palms forward, eager to get treated as soon as possible now that she knew that Sakura really could really get rid of the scars completely.
Sakura took the tomboy's hands in her own and started taking off the pieces of cloth covering them. ''So, does Naruto come here often?'' Asked Sakura trying to keep the conversation going but she knew that it was an obvious question. Of course Naruto would visit Kurotsuchi regularly. If the Iwa girl was willing to risk her life to help Naruto then their relationship was strong, stronger than Sakura had first assumed at least.
''Yes he does. And I'm grateful for that, he keeps things from getting boring honestly'' Kurotsuchi said casually.
At that, Sakura narrowed her eyes with a somber look as she finished tending to one of Kurotsuchi's hands and went to take the other. ''I'm a bit jealous, you know?'' Admitted the medic.
''Jealous?'' Repeated the bewildered Iwa girl.
Sakura nodded all the while kept her focus on her task. ''Yes, I mean...Naruto has been my teammate for a long time and I feel that you two are closer than I've ever been with him. I know it sounds silly but that's how I feel'' Said the pinkette.
''What are you talking about?'' Asked the perplexed tomboy. ''He likes you, I've seen him ask you on dates before. How much closer than that do you want to be?''
''He asking me out is not the same as being close, especially if I always reject him'' Said Sakura with sadness. ''I didn't realize until recently how little I truly know about Naruto. When we were kids I mostly avoided him, even when we became a team I didn't start to truly appreciate him until much later. Now we barely hang out since he came back after three years of not seeing each other. Not to mention that I didn't learn that he was a Jinchuuriki until our mission to Suna. It makes me feel like I have failed Naruto as a teammate. All this time knowing him and we are still so far apart''
Kurotsuchi tilted her head slightly, not understanding why Sakura was so hung up about this. The solution seemed pretty clear to the Iwa Kunoichi. ''If you really feel that way why don't you just accept to go on a date with him? That would certainly help your relationship with him, even if it doesn't become enything more'' As soon as those words left her mouth, Kurotsuchi immediately regretted them. for some reason, the thought of Naruto and Sakura together displeased her greatly.
''I don't want to lead him on'' Responded Sakura with a heavy heart. ''I know he has certainly earned a chance. He has been a good friend and teammate for years now and has always been there to me when I needed him. But if I accept one of his date offers I would just make him hopeful for nothing, he deserves better than that. Even after all this time my heart is with Sasuke-Kun, I know that I must sound like a madwoman to you for that, Sasuke-Kun has never expressed any interest in me but I can't help my feelings for him. I feel like an idiot, I just can't stop loving him'' Sakura didn't know why she was telling Kurotsuchi all of this, she guessed that she had to let it all out. Her conflicted feelings about Sasuke tormented her every day, even more so recently after their last mission, and she just wanted someone to confide in.
Now everything made sense to Kurotsuchi. So Sakura was completely head over heels for the Uchiha. The tomboy thought that the pinkette had terrible tastes if that was the guy she had fallen in love with, just the thought made her icky.
''But you are right. Maybe I really should give Naruto a chance. Who knows, perhaps I can be truly happy with him and I won't know until I try'' Said Sakura. ''I know he is a good person, and he certainly would try his best to make me happy''
Kurotsuchi widened her eyes in panic, she had screwed up. She had to make Sakura avoid entertaining the idea of accepting Naruto's dates at all cost. The blond already liked her, the only thing that he needed for the two of them to be together was a simple 'yes' from Sakura. Kurotsuchi had no doubt that if the pinkette gave Naruto a single chance the boy could very well end up winning her over. ''Don't give up on your true love so easily, Sakura. The matters of the heart are complicated, we can't help who we fall in love with. If who you really love is Sasuke don't let him go. The best you can do is to keep giving it your all and hope for the best. If you do that I'm sure that your feelings will reach Sasuke sooner or later'' Said Kurotsuchi with the best fake friendly smile she could muster. She didn't like encouraging anyone to pursue the Uchiha asshole, but if Sakura kept chasing after him she would never consider Naruto as a romantic partner. She felt guilty in her attempt to manipulate the pink-haired girl but she had no choice, she was the one who put the idea in Sakura's mind in the first place and she would do well to squash it while it was still new.
Sakura beamed at Kurotsuchi with glee, glad to hear some much-needed words of encouragement and completely missing the tomboy's hidden intentions. ''I didn't know you could be so deep, Kurotsuchi-San'' Praised the medic.
''I'm just trying to help, you are already aiding me with my injuries.'' Said Kurotsuchi amicably, keeping up her charade. ''I don't want to see you give up on your true love even when you face obstacles. In my opinion, those very same obstacles that you worry so much about are going to make the feelings you and Sasuke have for each other stronger when you overcome them, and I'm sure that you will''
This time, Sakura didn't say anything and just went back to focus on the healing process, but she did so with a smile full of gratitude as she pondered on what her current patient had told her.
Kurotsuchi kept a sly grin from forming on her lips. She could tell that her plan had worked, Sakura's spirits seemed to be renewed and no doubt her obsession with the Uchiha along with it. She sighed internally in relief, that had been close.
They both stayed like that for a couple of minutes until Sakura broke the silence again. ''All done!'' Said the medic cheerfully before she stood up with a proud smile.
At Sakura's declaration, Kurotsuchi started flexing her fingers and rubbing her hands against each other and just like her neck, they were completely smooth with no signs of having ever been damaged. ''You aren't the Hokage's apprentice for nothing, that's for sure''
''Thanks, I have trained hard to reach this level and I still have a long way to go but it feels nice to see my effort pay off'' Said Sakura. ''You don't feel any pain at all?''
''No, it's just perfect'' Replied the tomboy as she kept flexing her hand.
''That's good'' Said Sakura before she got a sheepish look on her face. ''If everything is fine now I think I should be going. I have a schedule to keep at the hospital and I don't want to be late''
''Sure, don't let me keep you'' Said Kurotsuchi cordially as she stood up just before Sakura did the same.
''Still, I wanted you to know that I really appreciate your kind words, after what happened in Grass Country I really needed them'' Said Sakura with a smile. ''I can see why Naruto likes you so much''
''It was nothing, don't worry about it'' Said the tomboy as she walked towards the entrance door and opened it. ''We can talk some more at another time, I don't want to be the cause that you are late for your duties''
''I would love that, to talk I mean'' Said Sakura as she went to stand at the entrance of the apartment.
''Sure. Take care, Sakura'' Said Kurotsuchi in farewell.
''See you later, Kurotsuchi-San'' Replied Sakura with a wave as she exited the place with a grin, all while having a completely new perspective of the rough girl. Maybe this would mean that she and Kurotsuchi could be friends too.
As soon as Sakura was out of sight, Kurotsuchi entered the apartment again and closed the door before leaning her back against it. As she rested her torso on the wooden surface she stared at the inside of her apartment looking at nothing in particular before she brought up a hand to rub her face. What had she done? It was to her knowledge that Naruto had been in love with Sakura for a long time, he had probably tried numerous times to get Sakura to give him a chance only to suffer rejection after rejection, and here Kurotsuchi had had the chance to do a favor to her best friend. She almost convinced Sakura to make one of Naruto's most yearned wishes come true, and she ruined it, on purpose too on top of it.
Kurotsuchi slowly slid down the door until she was sitting on the floor. She still didn't know why she had done that. Naruto's life had been hard, he deserved happiness and what better way to do it than being with the girl of his dreams? And Kurotsuchi had gone out of her way to kill that dream, what a friend she was. It wasn't like Sakura was a bad girl either, sure she had a temper and could be bossy but she wasn't an awful match for the blond, Naruto could definitely do much worse than her. But the mere thought of Naruto being intimate with Sakura made Kurotsuchi inexplicably angry and sad at the same time, as soon as she envisioned that she just had to make Sakura reconsider.
''What the hell is wrong with me?'' Thought the girl before she rested her head against the door as she stared at the ceiling with unfocused eyes. How ironic that just a few minutes ago she had advised Sakura about feelings like she was an expert on such matters; Meanwhile, Kurotsuchi was here trying to sort out her own emotions. ''It must be the exhaustion from the trip, yes that's it'' Concluded the pink-eyed girl. She should better lay down on her bed for a while, maybe even read a bit of the book that Kakashi lent her, that would help her take her mind off from this. With that in mind, the girl resolved to go and do just that. So, the tomboy proceeded to stand up before she walked towards her room with the intent of getting some rest.
-Hokage Tower-
Tsunade sat on her chair with her brow furrowed with anxiety. She gave a deep sigh, trying to relieve some tension, the moment to meet with Ohnoki had finally arrived, and to say she was uneasy was an understatement as this was a very delicate political matter, if things went wrong it could even lead to war but there was no backing down now, she had to show Iwa that they weren't going to stand for their transgression against Naruto and Jiraiya, if Ohnoki left no choice but to settle this with violence that was what was going to happen even if the Hokage would much prefer it to not be that way.
''Shizune, it's time'' Said Tsunade as she glanced at her apprentice who was at the corner of the room, waiting just as restless for the signal of her master.
''Of course, Tsunade-Sama'' Replied the raven-haired woman obediently. She then walked to the entrance door before opening it and signaling for someone to come in.
Almost immediately after, three men wearing the standard Konoha uniform entered the office with their stride full of purpose, for they had already been informed of this delicate task. They all lined up in front of the Hokage, ready to hear their leader's orders.
One of the men, Genma, had a bandana over his shoulder-length brown hair. He also had a metallic Senbon in his mouth which he used as a toothpick. Despite the severity of the situation, he had a relaxed look on his face.
A man named Raido was another one of the Shinobi present. He had spiky brown hair which he kept in place with his forehead protector and had a large scar running from the bridge of his nose all the way to the left side of his face. Unlike Genma, he had a serious look in his eyes.
And lastly, the last member of the three men was Iwashi. He had a small goatee and dark hair that he kept covered by a bandana that also served as a forehead protector. He was the only one to let his worry show on his face but he was still behaving professionally in front of the Hokage.
Once everyone was inside, Shizune exited the office to guard the entrance and let the rest of the integrants have privacy.
''Is everything ready, Hokage-Sama?'' Asked Genma casually.
''That's right'' Replied Tsunade. ''You know what to do, correct?''
The three men nodded in confirmation. they had been informed beforehand of their important role in this mission.
''Then let's not waste any more time'' Said the Sannin before she made the hand seal which Naruto was so fond of and a copy of Tsunade appeared beside her desk.
''You know what to do'' Said The Shadow Clone as she approached the three men.
The members of the Hokage's personal guard got to work and they slowly surrounded the fake Sannin. Once the men were in formation, Raido, Genma, and Iwashi linked their hands together with each other performing a collective hand seal, forming a three-man circle with the fake Hokage in the middle of it.
''Hiraijin no Jutsu!(Flying Thunder Formation Technique)'' Said the men at the same time, causing a bright yellow flash to engulf them and Tsunade's double before they disappeared completely.
As soon as Tsunade was left alone she slumped in her chair, feeling a headache beginning to form due to her anxiety. If things went wrong in that meeting it could mean war once again, and her uneasiness was made worse by the fact that she could not know how the meeting would be developing, at least not until her clone was dispelled.
The Hokage opened a drawer on her desk and pulled out a bottle of sake and a small cup. With her mind as clouded with worry as it was she doubted she could work anyway, so she might as well try to relieve some stress with alcohol.
-Grass Country-
Raido, Genma, Iwashi, and Tsunade's clone found themselves standing in the middle of a lush green forest, In the blink of an eye, they had been transported from the Hokage Tower to Grass Country. A few yards behind them they could see a large deep river and the remains of what once been a bridge that allowed passage over said river, and on the other hand, just several yards in front of them was a large fortress-like building.
As soon as they arrived, the three men let go of each other's hands to catch their breath, they didn't know how the hell did the Yondaime manage to use this Jutsu in battle when it was already incredibly disorientating just as a means of transport, and that was without taking into account the drain to one's Chakra reserves, that just served to prove how skilled the Yondaime had been with the technique that performing it didn't even faze him at all.
for her part, the clone was still getting used to the feeling of the space-time Ninjutsu. Unlike the men, It was the first time Tsunade had ever used the technique, it was so surreal how one could teleport anywhere as long as the place had been marked beforehand, and speaking of which, the Hokage's clone glanced around until she spotted the same three-bladed Kunai she had given Kakashi stuck on the ground just centimeters away from her feet. For a moment, the woman debated if she should take the Kunai or not, but she decided against it. If for some reason she was to be dispelled prematurely they would have to send another Clone right away, so t was better to leave it there for the time being.
The Shadow Clone turned to look as her personal guard to relay her new orders. ''Good Job. You can leave now, I'll take care of this from here on it''
''Alright. Good luck then, Tsunade-Sama'' Replied Raido as he started getting into the same previous circle formation along with the other two Jounin. And in just a few moments, the trio disappeared the same way the had come, in a yellow flash.
Now that she was left alone, Tsunade's clone took a deep breath, preparing herself for what was to come before she turned around to gaze at the stone fortress in front of her. It was a rather large, decrepit-looking building. It had the appearance of a small castle, with tower-like structures on each corner; even if it was intended to be a simple outpost the fact that they had been in times of war when it was being built meant that having it also serve as a battle station was in order. However, when Minato and his team had destroyed the bridge that the outpost was supposed to be overseeing, its construction was halted. That was one of the reasons for the outpost poor state, along with having been abandoned for years. The building was still missing some walls and the ceilings were still incomplete, with metal frames still visible, and several rooms having a direct view of the sky. Now, Kannabi Outpost, just like Kannabi Bridge, were relics of times long gone.
Having decided that the pass to ponder on the last war was over, Tsunade's clone went straight for the building, her stride firm and her head held high, she needed to project as much power and respect as she could.
The blonde woman pushed open effortlessly the large wooden door of the outpost, the door cringed as it did so and threatened to fall from his now rusty hinges to reveal the interior of the building. The fake Sannin could see nothing in the empty concrete room as her eyes adjusted to the shade. After that, the Shadow Clone walked into the room and saw another door at the end of it, and without wasting another second she approached it and opened with care. The next room was much bigger than the one in the entrance, but it was almost just as barren but at least there was proper lighting in this one as parts of the roof were missing and the natural daylight filtered through. Fake Tsunade notice that in the middle of the room was a large rectangular rock table with chairs made of stone all around it, but the most important thing was that she spotted the diminutive figure of the Tsuchikage sitting on the head of the table with another man standing beside him with his arms crossed, a rather famous Iwa Jounin named Kitsuchi. The Sannin could not see or feel anyone else's presence, which had to mean that the two men had to be clones too, they would not risk being by themselves and getting their leader killed, which was fair, Tsunade had taken the same precautions.
Tsunade shot a glare at Ohnoki which he returned in full force while his son just stared at her with a harsh look. Then, the blonde woman proceeded to slowly make her way towards the table, her footsteps echoing in the mostly empty building as she kept her eyes locked on the Tsuchikage while he followed her with his gaze. Once the woman reached the table, she took a single moment to wipe off the dust from her chair before she sat down at the foot of the table to have a direct look at Ohnoki.
Both leaders just kept looking at each other without saying a word, setting the aggravating tone for the conversation they were going to have.
Kitsuchi just looked between the leaders, feeling tense in anticipation and wondering when they would start to talk.
''Ohnoki'' Said Tsunade simply, breaking the silence at least.
''Tsunade'' Replied the man in kind. That short exchange being the extent of their greetings.
''I was wondering if you would show up'' Said with severe eyes.
''I'm not a coward. Unlike you, tree-huggers'' Ohnoki shot back.
''Funny coming from the leader of a nation infamous for the use of underhanded tactics'' Replied Tsunade smugly.
''That's enough of this!'' Said Ohnoki, trying to keep his cool. ''I didn't come here to throw insults at each other. Tell me about my granddaughter. You said you had her in your custody. I travelled all the way here just so I could hear you elaborate on it, so spit it out already''
Tsunade scowled dangerously at the Tsuchikage's disrespect. ''You don't get to make demands to me, Ohnoki. You are the one who attacked unprovoked my teammate and our Jinchuuriki, you are the guilty party here''
''Unprovoked?'' Repeated Ohnoki with indignation. ''The Yondaime killed more Iwa Shinobi than I can count. The man is dead now, so is only natural for the son to pay for the father's sins''
Tsunade widened her eyes in shock at Ohnoki's statement. ''So they know'' Though the woman as she narrowed her eyes in realization. So Iwa didn't attack Naruto because of the Kyuubi but for his parentage. ''So that's what this is about? You risked the life of your men, of your Jinchuuriki, and of your own granddaughter just because you are afraid of the legacy of a dead man? Pathetic'' Said the Hokage with disdain.
''That 'dead man' was the reason you are still standing'' Said the Tsuchikage. ''I know that his child is learning his father's techniques. I couldn't just allow you to raise a second Yellow Flash, the very same man that killed over a thousand of my men''
If it hadn't been for the severity of the situation Tsunade would have laughed at that. Naruto the second Yellow Flash? Not even close. ''So let me get this straight, you lost a good chunk of your forces, you lost both of your Jinchuuriki, your village is in shambles, and your granddaughter ended up as my prisoner because you were paranoid of a boy still in training? You must be so proud of that''' Taunted Tsunade.
The small man gritted his teeth in rage, trying to ignore the woman's taunt. ''''And I suppose that you must have proof to support your claims that Kurotsuchi is with you'' Said Ohnoki with incredulity.
''Yes, as a matter of fact, I do'' Replied Tsunade with a sly smirk. Then, the Hokage pulled out a crystal ball from her robes before she put it on the table.
Ohnoki widened his eyes in recognition when he spotted the glass orb. ''Is that what I think?'' That had to be one of those rare crystal balls used to perform the Tomegane no Jutsu. With that, the user could see the location of anyone they wished. The only downside was that the one performing the technique had to know perfectly the Chakra pattern of the person they wanted to spy. He had heard that the Sandaime Hokage had owned one of those, but it was just a rumor, now he saw that it was true.
''Oh so you know what this is'' Said Tsunade with a triumphant grin. With this, Ohnoki would not be able to deny her proof. ''In that case, you can see for yourself''
''Kitsuchi'' Said the Tsuchikage simply, commanding his son to get the ball. Ohnoki had never performed the Tomegane no Jutsu, but he knew how to do it.
The Jounin nodded obediently before he started walking along the length of the table at a quick pace, carefully retrieving the ball and making his way back, eager to see if what the Hokage said was true. After that, he placed the orb just in of his father.
''Be careful with it, though. You don't want to destroy it by accident'' Warned Tsunade. Not only was the orb made of glass, but it was also a copy, the result of the Kage Bunshin Jutsu. When one performed the Shadow clone technique, the Jutsu made a perfect copy of the person along with everything they had on them, tools included, but they were a clone too and they were subject to the same rules: If it got hit hard enough, or the Chakra powering ran out, it would dispell.
Ohnoki stood up in his seat, due to his stature it was needed so he could handle the ball. He made some hand seals before he put the palms of his hands around the orb. ''Tomegane no Jutsu(Telescope technique)'' Muttered the diminutive man. After a few seconds, the Tsuahikage and his son could see a blurry image starting to manifest itself inside the crystal ball as it slowly got clearer and more defined, once the image settled, both men felt relief watch over them once they saw Kurotsuchi through the glass. The girl was in what looked to be a simple room, not unlike one you would find on most houses, she was laying face up on on a bed seemingly sleeping soundly as they could notice the slight movement of her chest as she inhaled and exhaled. She had a relaxed posture with a small green book on one hand but overall she really looked to be unharmed.
Kitsuchi had to use all his willpower to avoid shedding tears in joy. He had thought that he would never see his daughter's face again, knowing that she was alive and well was the best notice he could get as a parent.
Ohnoki was doing a better job at hiding his content but he still let out a breath he didn't know he had been holding. Most nights he had trouble sleeping with the death of his granddaughter on his conscience, now he just had to get her back home to atone for that mistake.
''As you can see the girl is fine'' Tsunade interrupted the Iwa ninjas, breaking their attention from the crystal ball and back to her. ''She is staying at an apartment in Konoha. I have one of my Shinobi checking up on her periodically, making sure that she has proper food and clothing. On occasion, she is also allowed to roam free in the village, with a proper escort of course. Overall, you can say that she has been treated more than fairly'' The Hokage omitted the mention of Kurotsuchi's friendship with Naruto as she was sure that Ohnoki and Kitsuchi would not take kindly in knowing that she was friends with the son of their worst enemy.
''Okay, enough games. What do you want in exchange for my granddaughter?'' Said Ohnoki with severity. Tsunade would never keep Kurotsuchi alive and in comfort if she didn't want something for her rescue.
''Don't get ahead of yourself, I do want something in return for her safety'' Said the Sannin. ''But that's not all I want. I also want you to answer for your attack on Jiraiya and Naruto''
''And what do you have in mind?'' Asked the Tsuchikage. It was expected that she would want him to compensate her for that, so he might as well just get it over with.
Tsunade put her elbows on the table, clasping her hands in front of her face as she looked at the Tsuchikage coldly. ''One billion Ryo'' Said the Sannin with a serious face.
''What?!'' Shouted the Tsuchikage and even Kitsuchi had a bewildered look at the declaration. ''If that's the case, you might as well just say that we are never getting Kurotsuchi back. We don't have that kind of money to spare!''
''I didn't say you had to pay it all at once'' Said Tsunade. ''Each month I'll be sending you a team from Konoha to get payments of fifty million Ryo. As for the girl, you won't get her right away. She will stay with me until you have paid all your debt, to ensure that you don't back down''
''That's unacceptable!'' Yelled Ohnoki. ''If we are to pay you such exorbitant quantity of money we are taking her with us as soon as possible!''
''I'm afraid you have no choice'' Said Tsunade with an icy look. ''If you refuse to pay, I'll send all of my forces to crush you. I would make sure to bury you and your nation in rubble''
That statement left Ohnoki and Kitsuchi speechless, with eyes wide in astonishment. They would have never expected the student of the peace-loving Sandaime to make such a threat.
However, Tsunade continued. ''You lost a good number of Shinobi, as well as your Jinchuuriki. You would stand no chance against us. If you don't comply not only will we see a new war, but Kurotsuchi would be the first casualty too. Is up to you to decide if it's worth it''
Kitsuchi's shock was still evident in his features. A billion Ryo?! You could start your own nation with that. In the state Iwa was in, they needed all the income they could get if they were to recover properly. Also, Konoha was going to be holding Kurotsuchi until the debt was paid?! That would take a couple of years! He could not stand the thought of his daughter enduring that much time in there, stuck alone with people that hated her, the wait would be unbearable for Kitsuchi but what other choice did they have? The other alternative was to start a fight that they could not win and the would be signing Kurotsuchi's death sentence on top of it.
Ohnoki's mind was in a similar state to his son's. That amount of money was preposterous. Iwa needed the money, they still had yet to recover from the fuckup that was the Jinchuuriki capture mission. Iwa might be weaker than Konoha right now, but if he accepted the Hokage's terms it in the long term it would leave them in an even worse position. If they paid thirty million that they so much needed every month they would never catch up to Konoha, but the Tsuchikage guesses that Tsunade already knew that, that's why she was doing this. Ohnoki hated to think this but he had to ask himself if Kurotsuchi was worth hindering the development of their entire village, it killed him inside to even think that about his granddaughter but he was a Kage and he had to think of his village first. But there was also the lingering threat of the possibility of a war, a war they would most likely lose if he didn't accept the Hokage's offer.
''We can pay twenty million a month'' Said Ohnoki through gritted teeth. ''Fifty is too much''
''It will be fifty, no less than that'' Said Tsunade with a cold gaze. ''And you better be on time with the payments. If you don't fulfill your quota I'll be sending you your granddaughter in pieces'' Tsunade knew that Naruto would never allow something like that to happen, but Ohnoki didn't have to know that.
If Ohnoki and Kitsuchi's eyes hadn't been murderous before they sure were now after that statement.
''I didn't think you had it in you, Tsunade'' Said Ohnoki with barely repressed rage. ''Menacing another country with the possibility of war, and threatening a man with the dismemberment of his own flesh and blood. I don't see the pacifism that Konoha is so famous for''
Tsunade leaned a bit into the table to emphasize her next words. ''You attacked two people very dear to me. If you think I'm being unfair you should have thought about this before you attempted to kill my teammate and my godson. You are lucky I'm just making you pay me back in Ryo''
''How do I know that you will keep your word?'' Inquired Ohnoki.
''You don't'' Responded Tsunade. ''You are in no position to ask for proof. You'll just have to trust me''
Kitsuchi frowned, waiting expectantly for what his father would choose, not like they had much of a choice anyway. If their villages fought right now Iwa would lose, but if they went ahead with paying one billion Ryo they would end up even weaker than Konoha in the long run, so they would just have to trust that Tsunade was honorable and didn't take advantage of their weakened position. It was a terrible predicament for sure, having to depend on the goodwill of your enemies wasn't a good idea. In that case, the smart choice could be to deny pretend that they are going along with Tsunade's idea and they could attack while Konoha least expected it, and even then they would probably lose anyway. Mobilizing the amount of forced needed to have a shot in defeating Konoha would be too large to keep hidden for long, Konoha would realize what they were up to in no time. But Kitsuchi could not help but feel selfish, he would rather get the option wich he could get to see his daughter again, even if it conflicted against his sworn duty as a Shinobi. ''What will you decide, dad?'' Thought the Jounin as he shot a side glance towards the troubled Tsuchikage.
Ohnoki stared at the table with his face downwards. He didn't want to bend in the face of the Hokage, but what choice did he have? He could either tell her to piss off, killing Kurotsuchi in the process and causing a war he could not win, which would result in getting most of his people killed too. And on the other hand, he could give a good part of his financial resources to Konoha, setting their recovery back a few more years and putting them in an even worst position against Konoha, and he didn't even have a guarantee that they would not attack Iwa once they have dried them of their money.
Tsunade and Kitsuchi stood silent for several minutes, just looking at Iwa's leader and waiting patiently for his decision.
''I'll do it'' Said Ohnoki finally, face still downwards.
''Sorry, I couldn't hear you'' Replied Tsunade cheekily.
''I said I'd do it!'' Repeated Ohnoki, this time raising his head to meet Tsunade's eyes with his angry ones. ''You'll get your billion Ryo. I'll give you fifty million a month. But you don't touch Kurotsuchi or my country''
''Don't worry about the girl'' Said the woman. ''As long as you keep your end of the deal and she keeps behaving I won't touch her. Regardless, I'm glad that you saw reason and avoided a needless bloodshed, smart choice''
Ohnoki growled in annoyance. He never had much of a choice in the matter and here Tsunade was acting as if he had. ''Will this be all?'' He just wanted to get out of here as soon as possible and end this humiliating experience.
''I guess it is'' Said Tsunade with a triumphant grin, which just served to intensify the glares of the two men. Tsunade stood up from her stone chair and turned around in the opposite direction. ''It was nice that we could settle this, Ohnoki'' Said the woman without looking back as she finally realized the clone Jutsu and she dispelled in a puff of smoke, transferring all the memories of what happened here to the real Tsunade in Konoha.
Kitsuchi looked at the fuming face of his father, knowing that he was doing his best effort to keep his composure after that demeaning deal he had been forced to make.
''I know it wasn't an easy choice to make dad'' Said the Jounin in an attempt to help his leader and father. ''You did what you had to do to keep every one of us safe, you had no alternative''
''Stop, Kitsuchi'' Said the Diminutive man. ''I don't want to talk about this. We have no need to be here anymore, let's go''
Kitsuchi nodded in agreement. If his father didn't want to speak of this he would respect that. With that, both men made a single hand seal, and just like Tsunade before them, they dissapeared in a puff of smoke, leaving the building alone once again as it had been for several years now.
Author's note:
Here it is guys, the next chapter! To be honest this wasn't my most favorite chapter to write. I mean, I didn't hate to do it, but it certainly wasn't as fun as previous ones. Except for the Kurotsuchi and Sakura interaction, that one was fun, except that it was hard, I had already mentioned how much trouble I have getting Sakura right so you can imagine my struggle.
Nevertheless, this was a neccesary chapter, and you will see it in the future.
Thanks again for reading my story! And as always, please review or PM me, any is very much appreciated, but only if you want to, just taking your time to read my fic is enough to make me happy :)
See you next time!
