Naruto's heart felt heavy. He couldn't remember the last time he was riddled with such foreboding. It made him conscious of every step he took. He felt like he was even being watched by the unblinking eyes of god. He was slowly, but surely moving pieces in the right way, and yet, he felt as if something bad just about to befall on him. The feeling has followed him persistently since his departure from the Hidden Rain a day ago. He'd stopped a couple of times to see if there was someone following him. But it felt like his mind was just playing tricks on him. Despite being conscious of the fact, the feeling did not take its claws off him.
His destination should only lead him into a mind clearing exercise. Yet, why did he feel like someone wrong was about to happen? Was it because Madara didn't do anything and was letting him do as he pleased? He didn't want to think the man would ruin all things just make him see just hopeless living in this world was. It was possible for him to go that route—but Naruto didn't necessarily consider it a scenario to dread. If he learned the despicable nature of this world through his own wounds, but he would consider it an experience to cherish.
He stopped and glanced up into the sky; the sun was partly hidden by the leaves. The forest that surrounded the Fire Country was with life. It created a shield from being at the mercy of the sun. travelling was fairly comfortable. He held no fears of coming across Konoha shinobi. If they wanted a fight, he'd give it to them. If nobody escaped, who would know it was him?
"Say, Kyubi."
"What?" The Bijuu's voice was a low growl. It replied with some annoyance.
"Why acting like you were busy with something?"
"I enjoy the peace."
Naruto rolled his eyes. "Well, being in prison leaves you with little choice." He stopped under a tree and sat down beside the trunk, with his eyes closed as he took a breather. "What do you think happens if I move Suna toward war with Konoha?"
"Do you want to see Konoha ruined?"
"I wouldn't cry if that happened. In fact, I think the Great Nations do not understand the pain of small people. In some ways, I sympathize with Nagato's contempt for the Great Nations. But I don't necessarily desire destruction. I love a few battles there and there, but becoming a wanted criminal wouldn't give me the peace of mind." He didn't want to live the life of Itachi—at least not now. He still had much room for growth.
"Says a member of the Akatsuki."
Naruto laughed at the Bijuu's flat response. "Yeah," he said with a smile. "Well, we shall see what happens. But I want to delay the Akatsuki moving a little a bit while I sort out some issues."
"That fake Madara will kill you."
"Doesn't matter. For me to delay things, one or two Bijuu can't be found. I know Zetsu has some impressive skills but you should also be able to track down other Bijuu if I let you take control over my body."
"I was wondering what you want from me," Kurama shook his head. He wouldn't complain with the idea nonetheless. After all, it stayed his death. "I can help you."
"You have my thanks," Naruto replied. "If only I could shake off the feeling I have… well, it could just be my mind trying to fool me. I'm not doing anything wrong after all."
For now, he could focus on trying to get Itachi to change course. Danzo taking charge of Konoha and Sasuke was surely going bring chaos that would threaten the very foundation of the village. It could be marching toward a path of destruction. This world was full of possibilities and the Leaf was no longer the power house it once was.
Unknown Location
Itachi was sitting on a throne like chair, his crimson eyes staring down at him. Naruto couldn't even tell what the Uchiha was thinking. But as he sat there, head resting on the palm of his right hand, he looked the part of a man who carried the sin of murdering his family for the sake of the village. Perhaps, there was also the thought of not ruining the clan's name with the Civil War. Seeing him like that, reminded Naruto why Itachi was truly a fearsome Shinobi. Madara wouldn't admit it, but Naruto was certain he would think twice before deciding to face his fellow Uchiha. Perhaps, that was why, he hoped Itachi fell to his sword soon enough.
Naruto suppressed the feelings inside of him. It was just madness; the thrill of knowing he could make Itachi move. No, he couldn't possibly achieve such a thing. He was too much of a child to manipulate the Uchiha. But events around Konoha meant things couldn't be the same. Itachi had to do something. However, doing something meant going against Madara, in the same way he did with Nagato. What would be the response this time around? Could he get away with it?
He settled in front of Itachi in a meditative position, with both eyes shut.
"You must have already heard."
Naruto said those words in a casual tone but there was nothing casual about the situation. Danzo was going after his brother—and he'd warned the man to stay away. Worse, the Leaf was going to go through some changes. Itachi knew how that man operated. Nothing would be smooth sailing—it was just going to be chaos and the Leaf could be in danger. Why had the Sandaime not chosen someone to succeed him?
He was certain Danzo was going to manipulate his brother into killing him. Danzo would ensure the Uchiha Massacre remained a secret and even if it didn't, he would twist things to ensure he wasn't painted as the mastermind. The Sandaime might even be blamed for giving him the order. Whatever it was, it was going out of plan.
And Itachi didn't like it. Not even a little. But his mortal body was weary, being torn apart by a sickness. Soon enough, the drugs and sheer will power wouldn't be able to keep it at bay. Already, he was limited onto what he could do.
He couldn't possibly allow the sacrifice of his clan to be wasted.
"I've also heard you moved into Sunagakure," Itachi said with a stare. His posture didn't change a bit.
"Umm… yeah… couldn't waste the opportunity."
"If you hadn't, Suna would have surrendered to Konoha." And the village would be in less danger. Danzo being Hokage was a disaster because the man would start a war soon enough. Itachi didn't think there was reason enough to start a war, but Danzo was a war hawk. As soon as he rebuilt Konoha's crippled military power, he would be making moves.
Why had Naruto gone to Suna then? Itachi didn't think it was because the blond wanted vengeance on the Leaf. Itachi had observed things. The fact that Naruto did nothing when the opportunity presented itself meant he wasn't holding a grudge.
So, why make such a dangerous move? Was it simply out of spite or was he just inventive about how he went about things?
"Konoha's path to greatness would have been shortened." Naruto added. "I've been told enough to get the general idea of what kind of a man Danzo is."
"To him, you're either a friend or an enemy. He was displeased with how things ended at the Third War. He advocated to sending the Yondaime Hokage to do more damage to make Iwa pay for the lives it took and claim victory" Itachi replied. The Sandaime might have his critics, but Itachi was not one of them. There were incidents that could have led to another war—including the Hyuga incident. But the Third chose peace.
Naruto suppressed a smile. Itachi's words gave him an idea. Granted the history, Iwa had no choice but to act in such circumstances. If Konoha chose war, it would meet its doom. Surely, his father would wish for his soul to he destroyed in the after life when he meets the dead who tell him, because of his son, the village he'd perished to protect was now destroyed.
"Retribution, huh? Well, man is like that. You love something deeply enough, you'll do anything to protect it. Even if it means sacrificing family."
Naruto wasn't looking at him, but he had a feeling it was a jab at his past. It was just never something they actually spoke about. "But his love goes far. Danzo will sacrifice anything. Shinobi are just tools to him. The elders will nonetheless say, he does everything for Konoha—which is true to some extent," Itachi said calmly. "But he believes Konoha can only be led to greatness by him and him only. He will build military strength. Iwa and Kumo are obviously enemies. He also has no need for allies he cannot control. At this rate, expect a lot of sabotage actions. He'll be trying to get both Iwa and Kumo to fight through dark tactics."
War was merely a tool for other shinobi. Perhaps Nagato was right in his contempt for Konoha. It seemed for Danzo, war would be a tool to spread his hegemony. Wasn't everyone with a little bit of power and lack of morals was like that? Nagato, Madara and even Danzo—they were all the same people. Naruto didn't want to be in the same bracket as those hopeless people. He thought himself better.
"What does a pacifist do in such a situation?"
"I am a member of the Akatsuki. If I do anything that would be against it, I'll have the organization against me."
Naruto laughed. "Such a diplomatic answer," he said. "Say, Itachi, why do you think I'm sitting like this?"
"Aren't you going to tell me?"
"To be on guard to ensure there is no other chakra around us. I'm afraid Zetsu is a little too good at Intelligence gathering."
"You're not loyal." Itachi thought this a breakthrough. They could now speak earnestly without tiptoeing around certain issue.
"I wouldn't say that. I just do the things I like, while conscious of the main goal. I've already been ordered to capture Suna's Jinchuriki when the Akatsuki begins to move. And without fail, I will capture the Bijuu." Naruto said without a shred of hesitancy in his voice. "But it seems that if nothing is done, war will be upon us."
"Yes. Do you want to stop it?"
"Not necessarily. If it happens, I'll experience it." Naruto said with a slight shrug. "Say, Itachi… how do you think your friend was able to help you out? You asked his help, but how did he know about the planned coupe ?" Naruto asked with a grin. "Ah, I must also tell you… He was responsible for the Kyubi going loose in Konoha. You could say, he was responsible for the major event that made the Uchiha suspects and led to their downfall. He also manipulated the Yondaime Mizukage…" he opened his eyes for a moment. "Logically, you'd think he had a hand in fuelling the fire. He is the sort who'll move things to get what he wants."
"Doesn't that apply to you as well?"
It wasn't unthinkable what Naruto was saying. And that greatly worried the Uchiha. If things were flowing like this, wouldn't he offer to help Danzo in his plans? Of course, his goal would be to weaken the Great Five to ensure there was little resistance when the plan was being moved forward.
Naruto shrugged in response. "It is the past," he said. "I came here to ask what you were willing to do to protect Konoha and Sasuke. If Danzo can't control Sasuke, he will kill him. Or just use him until he drops dead. If you want to kill him, I'll help you out."
"Killing Danzo has to be the last recourse. Konoha has just lost the Sandaime, if Danzo gets killed, the village's standing takes a major hit and its very existence could be threatened."
"Spoken like a fine Konoha shinobi. But at this rate, if Danzo wants to do what he pleases with Sasuke, he'll send everything to get rid of you. The second he knows where you are, he'll be sending the big guns to fight you. And that includes Jiraiya."
He'd already threatened Danzo—that man was going to end up trying to kill him. Not for that only but to ensure the secret of the Uchiha massacre was dead with him.
"And you're here because of that. You have some plan to ensure I survive long enough. It is nothing but for the sake of my brother and Konoha, after all."
Naruto raised an index finger, smiling. "And to avoid war. That is what pacifists do, isn't it? You do all you can to avoid war. We're going to war as things are."
"What are you planning?"
Naruto laughed at the question. "With you? I'm not arrogant enough to believe I'm capable of twisting you. I value my life. If you want to stop the Akatsuki, you'd kill me first. I still value my life…" he shook his head. "I just want to put you in a position where you can do something, if you want. If killing Danzo is a must to protect Konoha, Sasuke and stop a war, wouldn't you do it? But given your physical limitations, even you would have some problems. Danzo expects you after all. So, I'm not really planning anything. There is just a dilemma you're facing and I'm coming up with a solution. Whether you take it is up to you."
Some children were frightening. "You know about my sickness… and what do you suppose must be done? You want us to seek out Tsunade?"
Naruto blinked and then laughed. "You're frightening, Itachi. I hope, never a day comes where we become enemies." He said calmly. "But yes, that is what I think you can do. Even if she might not be able to cure you, she could extend your life."
"You think she would do something like that? She is attacking me when she sees me."
Naruto put on a twisted smile. "We ask, if she refuses, use force. She is a Sannin, and the best medical kunoichi… but she is still human. Genjutsu still works. She can be forced."
"I don't think my Genjutsu powers are that great."
"There are things that help weaken the mind." Naruto shrugged. "I've tested the capabilities of the Mangekyo Sharingan's ability to manipulate people. It is effective, to some extent. It works better when you're bringing out the worst in people. Say you're a closet murderer but hide it. Even if you're as powerful as Jiraiya, if I used the ability on you, it still works like a charm."
"That is because, naturally, that is who that person is. You're not twisting their thinking," Itachi replied. Shisui's eye however who rewrite just about anyone's mind. If he stood before Pain, he could use it. He could even use it on Madara. Nobody was safe from that power. "You think I would agree to it? Or, are you just testing my limits?"
Naruto scoffed. "Your limits?" He showed a disgusted expression. "You killed the father who always protected you, even some clan members were against you… and a mother who carried you for nine months in her belly, and showed you nothing but love." Naruto was certain he saw a twitch in Itachi's expression. "You did that in the name of protecting Konoha. The Zealous ideal that nobody is above the interests of the village. What is manipulating Tsunade to heal you compared to that?"
"What do you gain?"
"Even Itachi is human after all. The things shinobi do to protect and yet, feel the grieve," Naruto shook his head and then stood up. "I'm going to rest a bit and calm myself. I'm going to be a very busy person with little time to think."
"You're not answering my question."
Was there any gain? Whether war could be stopped or not was a matter of curiosity. With Itachi, it was perhaps worth seeing just far the man was willing to go. But what did he gain?
"What do you think I gain?" Naruto asked, his head cocked to the side. "Like I said, it is merely circumstances that permit me to say what I say. I understand, it puts you in a tricky situation. You're still free to do as you pleased," he paused, his lips twirling up into a cruel smile. "To be honest, I'm fine with any reality. But if Konoha ends up being destroyed, I'm okay with it."
"I don't really understand that part of you."
"It is not a problem. We're not going to grow old together. Your time is limited, anyway… but the same is for me…" or perhaps this very world. Of course, Naruto wasn't going to tell Itachi the purpose of the Akatsuki. It was amazing that Itachi didn't try to force the information out of him.
Maybe he was conscious that if he pushed, their little friendship would come to an end.
Two Days Later
With Sasuke in the hands of Danzo, he was going to be turned onto a mindless weapon, a tool that couldn't think for itself. Itachi didn't want that kind of life for his younger brother. If not for Naruto, he would also be one with Orochimaru's cursed seal. At least, he was safe but he would be robbed of the ability to think for himself. It wasn't much different from what he did. Worse, war would be upon them. He would once more again, welcome fields of bodies lined up. Itachi would do anything that Konoha didn't have to see such a dreadful future.
How had things even come to this point? There was just an uncontrollable chaos that could spell the very doom of the home he loved dearly. Anything that could, was gaping. The Hidden Leaf has been riddled with nothing but misfortune since the Yondaime perished. The man's death was also a misfortune. There was no luck. Perhaps it was some twisted hand under the table, conspiring to bring Konoha to its knees.
Throughout the very founding of shinobi villages, Konoha has always been blessed with powerful shinobi. Other villages have had famous Kage, but not in the same scale as Konoha. Barring Danzo, Konoha's Kage have always been of unparalleled power.
"You never answered my question." Itachi said to Naruto as they slowly walked under the shades of trees.
"Do you think it is possible we can be friends?" Naruto asked in a curious tone.
It wasn't lost to Itachi that the blond was basically alone. He didn't have anyone he could call a friend—and as a child, that had to bring some negative thoughts. "It is possible," he conceded. "But it shouldn't be looked at in the lenses of possibilities. If so, anything is possible."
"Indeed," Naruto replied in a quiet tone. "I sometimes feel very lonely. When I'm at the Rain, I stand in the rain to let it wash over me. I think it hides my misery. I want to understand the idea of friends. I have learned, some friends stay longer than family."
"It all depends on the kind of friends you make. You've never been interested in such things. What has changed?"
"The more you see the world, the more you see the things you're missing." Naruto laughed coldly. "You do anything to protect your brother. When I was at Konoha, I saw friends trying to protect friends, even if they would be harmed. An older sister was willing to sacrifice herself just that her brother doesn't become a monster. It is love and a love I do not know. I've asked myself, if I'm in trouble, who has my corner? There is just no one. It is empty, and that makes it sad."
Ah, a cruel living. It brought nothing but bitter thoughts in Naruto. Sometimes, he thought, the shinobi world may as well end. Even when he took actions that could put out the flames of war, there was a part of him that giggled at the thought of the chaos a war would bring about it.
"And Konoha?"
"You know how that went. I never had an opportunity to make friends. Everyone hated me…" Naruto glanced at the Uchiha with an expressionless mask. "You were around."
"I'm around now."
"Yet, so far away."
"It is the same with you."
Naruto shrugged. "Our relationship was never like that. I'll be honest, I never demanded anything more. You're knowledgeable about the things in life. We're both from Konoha and have left for different reasons. I'd always considered that since we're of the same organization, things didn't need to be that deep. But I was wrong."
"You don't strike me as someone who can be easily manipulated."
"It doesn't mean that I can't be changed. I'm still a child. There are new things I view and emotions that I have yet to experience. I want to have a friend to bounce that off," Naruto smiled. "Besides, I think along the road, a day will come and I'll need your help."
"And I can't help you if I'm dead." Itachi said. "You're not overly concerned about Konoha. Or even the idea of the War. In fact, you're in Sunagakure because you want to have a say in whatever happens. No, you want to have the power to decide what happens. That's why you're in Suna."
"You know me too well."
"I understand Suna gives you power and the ability to set the tone—"
"Suna can also be considered a social experiment. I just want to see where it will end up with the right backing," Naruto said and then smiled. "My betrayal is going to sting."
As things were, he would have to eventually capture Gaara for the Akatsuki. If he did it openly, Suna would turn on him. There was a part of him felt excitement at the thought. Maybe he was losing himself into the madness that was the shinobi world. Saying he was better than most was nothing more than coloured words meant to mask his own evil.
"My existence was denied by Konoha. Maybe I can find some value in Suna." He added offhandedly.
"You've already said you're going to betray them. What happens when you do find the value? Will it be so simple to betray them?".
Naruto shook his head. Nothing was ever simple. "Duty comes first before anything."
"Yet, you seem perfectly fine doing things that are outside of your duty."
"As long as it doesn't go against duties." Naruto shrugged indifferently. "Adults always tell you they know the best. But nobody is perfect. You can't simply accept someone's perception of the world without question. I want to learn to live for myself and experience genuine feelings toward different things and situations. For that personal greed, I'll off-ramp away from the Akatsuki to indulge myself. I don't see a problem if I end up going back. I know where I'm supposed to be."
"Doing things in such a way might lead you to getting lost."
"That is part of life."
"You would accept that?"
"Maybe… maybe not," Naruto smiled. "I just don't want to die without being content with my life. If I'm content with the choices I have made, then anything is fine. We all choose the paths we follow and believe them to be right to the exclusion of others. Would you understand that? Given that you chose a path for your brother? Suspect to be fooled by anyone, but that is the effect of what you did and chose for him…" he shook his head. "I can't reconcile how you love your brother so much but yet still choose to cause him to live a life of misery. With the way he is, he isn't going to turn out well. Once you're dead, he'll know the truth and will turn to Konoha."
"If Danzo doesn't corrupt him."
Naruto smiled. "Yes, that is that. Anything is really possible." He glanced at the Uchiha and then looked ahead once more. "Why make him suffer?"
"He needs to be stronger to defeat me."
"There are many ways in which things could have gone. Well, ultimately, Sasuke chose his path. It doesn't help he has been lied to…"
They walked about two hours before arriving at a Town. It was lively, both were disguised. Itachi would be more recognizable to many. And while nobody would dare attack, it left a trail. Naruto thought he was virtually an unknown entity in the shinobi world. It didn't matter if he was disguised or not—but Itachi insisted. They settled in town, ate and waited for a couple of hours.
Sasori and Deidara were waiting for them just outside of the Town.
"Hell, you didn't tell me you were bringing this bastard with you," Deidara hissed, glaring at Itachi.
Naruto shrugged. "I wasn't coming to you, Deidara, but Sasori." He had a look of amusement on his face. He couldn't forget the humiliation Deidara faced in the hands of the Uchiha. Even Orochimaru faced humiliation . Itachi's Genjutsu abilities were truly unrivalled. Naruto was thankful everyday that he had learned under the man.
"Hn!" Deidara continued to glare at Itachi. "How about it, Itachi? I have counter measures against your Genjutsu… This time, my Art will show you!"
Itachi shook his head. "It is unnecessary," he said.
"Saying it like that pisses me off. I feel like you're just dismissing me as if I'm nothing!"
"Wasn't the humiliation of last time enough?" Sasori asked without emotion. "Besides, your art causes nothing but destruction. We don't want that here."
"Besides, we're all members of the Akatsuki," Naruto intervened after Sasori. He didn't want to stick around for too long in the presence of these two.
He got along with Sasori—well, he found the man useful. His web of Intelligence provided him with much needed information.
"Did you get my message?"
"Yes." Sasori threw a scroll toward Naruto—who caught it with his right hand. "Why do you want her location?"
Naruto just smiled and said. "It's a secret," he said.
"Something to do with Suna's invasion of Konoha?"
Naruto shook his head. "Say, if Suna were to welcome you back, would you accept?"
"No."
It was a flat no that left Naruto a little surprised. "That's surprising," he said. "Well, thank you for this. I shall say hello to your grandmother upon my return to Suna. She will not be living long enough… it would be nice for her to know her grandson is well."
"What do you mean by that?"
Naruto just smiled and turned away, waving his right hand. He stopped and spoke. "Well, she is old." He said.
They walked about a couple of minutes in silence before Itachi finally spoke. "When did you send him a message?"
"While I was in Suna… I saw one of his contacts."
"Then you'd planned on meeting Tsunade."
"No… I just made preparations in case you agreed. It would have been foolish to come to you without homework…" Naruto paused and then asked. "Are you displeased?"
"No."
Somewhere In the Fire Nation
There was a weight off his shoulder as Jiraiya settled across Tsunade in a crowded restaurant. The sun was above their heads, people enjoying their lunch with drinks. He sighed in relief seeing she was still just fine—drinking as usual. His relief only went as far as her happiness and survival, but not toward any hopes she would decide to return to Konoha with him. If anything, Jiraiya thought he might just be running away from the dreadful situation within the Leaf. Danzo was Hokage and there was nothing short of treason that would change the situation.
He smiled at Shizune, who sat beside her master. The Toad Sage's eyes then fell back to the woman who he has truly loved without condition. Love was truly a sad thing. He should've be having grandchildren now, but he was still stuck in his unreciprocated love. He didn't really think he would stop loving Tsunade. She would always be his Princess.
"I figured I'd see you soon enough." Tsunade grunted, lazily taking a sip of her alcohol. The news of the Sandaime Hokage's passing spread like a wildfire. He'd been a fool to permit Orochimaru to leave Konoha and not hunt him down. He'd always been dark, but blind love wouldn't allow him to see it.
"I'd thought you'd voluntarily return. It is the old man."
Tsunade shrugged. "We're not children anymore."
"You don't care?"
Tsunade smiled sadly. "I'm not saying that," she said. She'd lost too much already. Hiruzen was old—she'd always figured his day was coming soon. At least, he lived a long life. "You look fine, considering."
"I'm not fine at all," Jiraiya chuckled bitterly, his eyes gaining a heavy look. His tone matched the look on his eyes as he explained. "Sensei is dead… I had to kill Orochimaru as a result. Danzo has become Hokage and looks set to be leading Konoha to war."
"What?!" Tsunade exclaimed. "Danzo became Hokage?!"
"Yeah," Jiraiya replied grimly. "Looks like he'd been planning for it. Didn't even wait for the invasion to conclude before appointing himself…"
Tsunade didn't need anyone to explain to her just how much of bad news Danzo was to Konoha and the shinobi world. If there was going to be trouble, her peaceful days, minus the creditors, would come to an end. Where could she go for peace? It was just leaving the shinobi world completely if she had to be free. She couldn't even go anywhere in the Fire Nation without being hounded.
"Looks like you're in a tough spot," she said calmly.
"And you?"
"I'm not going back to Konoha. Danzo being Hokage is all the more reason I shouldn't."
"He is going to destroy everything Sensei built, hime! You have to return to Konoha with me!"
Tsunade stared at Jiraiya coldly. "Then what?" She asked. "You're just going back to be taking orders from him, doing whatever he wants. You're too loyal, Jiraiya and you're going to die because of it."
"I cannot abandon Konoha." The Toad Sage said defiantly.
"Sure…" Tsunade rolled her eyes. "My answer will not change. No matter what."
"You know Danzo is going to hunt you down. I might be ordered to fight you if things come to it. He is going to send an order; you're either for Konoha or against it. If you don't return and we have to go to war, he'll order your elimination," Jiraiya's face was flat, but his voice was heavy with emotions. "Do you want me to bear that sin? I have already killed Orochimaru."
Tsunade let out a cold laughter. "It isn't like he didn't deserve it. But I'm surprised you did it. He was your friend."
"I didn't want to do it. But I had no other choice. He attacked Konoha and caused sensei to die. Letting him go after that would have been foolish. He was just going to come back again." The red line was of course that he attacked Konoha. Jiraiya wouldn't have considered hunting down his former friend even if he was a wanted man by Konoha.
"I'm still not coming back."
Jiraiya help helplessly turned to Shizune, looking for help.
"She wont listen to me. When we heard the news, I begged her but she wouldn't listen," the back haired kunoichi said with a slight shake of her head.
"I didn't have much hope but I still thought—" the Sage shook his head, smiling sadly. He placed both hands on the table and spoke. "Minato's son seems to have taken over Sunagakure and they are on a collision course with Konoha."
"They did invade," Tsunade pointed out. "Was he with them?"
Jiraiya shook his head. "Seems to have taken advantage of the situation. I don't know what he wants. He is unlike Minato or Kushina. He is cold and ruthless, hime. He is just a brat, but he cuts down shinobi without even blinking."
He was a shinobi; Tsunade thought Jiraiya would have expected this. It wasn't like Naruto was the first he'd seen. Too many children lives were like that. Worse, Naruto was a Jinchuriki of the Kyubi. The special treatment from Konoha obviously got to him. If there was someone to raise him, it would have been better, but there was no one around him.
"You think he wants revenge against Konoha?"
"No… but you never know. It is a possibility. The stance Suna has taken will only strengthen Danzo's resolve in invading it. If that happens, we will eventually fight."
If Jiraiya had not hoped of convincing her to return to Konoha, then he came here to talk to a friend. His beloved sensei was dead. The village he loved dearly was now being ruled by a man who was trigger happy. He'd been forced to kill a person he might have called a best friend. And now, he could end up having to kill the son of a man he once saw as a son, the man who gave his life to protect Konoha.
Talk about a cursed life. If that happened, he would truly be lonely, and having failed at everything in life.
"Get us more drinks, Shizune."
"With what money?"
"Jiraiya is a famous author, he'll pay."
"I'm broke." Jiraiya replied seamlessly.
"What do you do with your money?" Tsunade snorted in thought. "Let me guess, whore houses?" She said with disdain.
"I only go for research!"
"Yeah, right," the Slug Princess rolled her eyes.
Sunagakure
Sitting behind his desk, a mountain of papers atop, glaring problems in the streets and just about everywhere, Baki thought of good things had come. He'd wondered if Naruto would truly succeed in getting the Wind Lord to assist Sunagakure. The man had for years refused to help them and then sent missions to Konohagakure. It would be treachery to his own village if he continued with that way as they were now enemies with the Leaf—and technically, at war with it.
The Wind Lord had not just sent a letter or someone, he'd descended upon Suna to check things himself. Given the way he spoke, Baki was certain Naruto hadn't manipulated him using the Sharingan. The blond had said he would make it happen, but the details were scarce. When the Feudal Lord came, they discussed the way forward, and what Suna needed. He agreed to charge less for missions and the Daimyo was happy with it. There were signs of an urge to interfere with how Suna ran things, but Baki chose to ignore it. If money came, they would stock on weapons, begin training shinobi anew and maybe hire others to carry out certain tasks for the village.
From behind the desk he has now accepted as his, Baki stared at his students. Nothing has changed for Gaara—he was still feared by everyone. At least, he didn't seem as erratic as he once was. Baki didn't feel there was any reason to fear him—at least on his side. Naruto was around to diffuse any flames. A child, but the blond has proved himself to be much more capable than Rasa was.
"I have received a response from Konoha," he started in a grim tone. "They are not open for discussing anything with us. In fact, Danzo-san has declared war upon us and said he would be adding the three of you in Konoha's wanted list."
"That's extreme," Kankuro grunted. It just meant they would be hunted and not just by Konoha but by anyone who wanted the bounty on their heads.
"The declaration of war is not unexpected. I'm still just surprised they don't even want to talk," Temari said with a slight shake of her head.
"Are you surprised? You were more than happy to kill their shinobi. If things had gone according to plan, you'd have gleefully done it." Baki said with a cold stare.
Actions have consequences. Naruto hadn't said it, but he hinted that even though they were tricked, they were not just innocent fools. Were they good people? No. but was anyone in the shinobi world a good person? Shinobi did whatever they did for the sake of their villages.
Hearing those cold words, Temari frowned. "That is just how things work. But continuing to seek violence isn't going to solve anything."
"You're speaking on the assumption that they want to solve things."
"They just want war then…" Kankuro smiled mildly. "We're going to have a crappy life from now on." One of them might not even return to the village the next time they leave.
"I've already told you won't be leaving the village for the foreseeable future and Konoha's letter reinforces this much. We must admit, Suna doesn't have many skilled shinobi." Pakura would have been around if Rasa and the Council didn't conspire to have her murdered. Maybe things would have been different now.
"What do you suggest then?"
Baki leaned against his chair and let out a cold breath. His eyes turned toward the silent Gaara. He seemed absorbed in his thoughts and he couldn't even tell what he was thinking.
"You understand your situation in the village, right?"
"Yes."
"They hate and fear you. In fact, the Council would have been willing to have you sacrificed. People in this village will celebrate if you suddenly die." The Godaime Kazekage said harshly.
"Baki sensei—"
Baki ignored Temari and continued to speak. "Some of it, is our fault. Rasa decided to turn you into a weapon and expected a child to be able to control a Bijuu. We created a weak seal and that is on us. Your father trying to have you killed didn't make things easy either. No child deserved what you went through. However, you're still to account for your own actions. You've not been a saint either. Justified or not, it doesn't matter. If you want to build Suna with everyone, you're going to have to make people trust you. While the others will be forbidden from leaving the village, I'll make an exception for you.
"That is if you're willing to do things differently. To change things, you must gain the trust of the shinobi and the village. It is not going to be easy and you might not even make it. But we have to try for the sake of Suna. You're the village's greatest asset as things stand and I will drive the message to everyone. The question then is, are you willing to work with me?"
Gaara simply nodded. His eyes didn't reflect anything, neither did the rest of his face.
"Good," Baki smiled. "There will be training sessions with groups of shinobi. You'll become the immovable mountain they must move in order to become stronger. Naruto will return with proper plans."
Gaara said. "You plan to make the shinobi see a different side of me and become much closer during the sessions. That way, it becomes easy for them to trust me," he said without emotion.
"Yes. But that is an afterthought." Baki said. "I won't lie to you. There are some who would rather we sacrifice you to Konoha because if you lose control, nobody will be around to stop you. And, if we hand you over, there might not be the risk of an invasion."
"Why not then?" Gaara asked curiously.
"I wouldn't agree to anything like that!" Temari replied forcefully. "You're my brother and no one is going to sacrifice you." She added with a small smile on her lips, her eyes firmly on her younger brother.
"Even if it would save the village?"
"It is not going to save this village this time." Temari dared not think about the worst case scenario. If it was possible for her beloved brother to regain the trust of the village and live a normal life, then she wouldn't think about any darkness that may lurk in the shadows to ruin it all.
Baki shook his head at the exchange. "Suna is stronger with you. We can't depend on Naruto. We need to grow," he said and then turned to Kankuro. "You're going to create a team of puppet users. Puppet Jutsu is one of our village's treasured arts. We must make use of it to strengthen the village."
"I don't think I can teach anyone," Kankuro said with modesty. He was about the only one now who practiced puppet jutsu. And never did he think he would be training anyone. He even disliked having to deal with brats.
"Lady Chiyo will be around." Baki said. It seemed curious that Naruto knew she was the best person suitable for this job. If anything, his knowledge about certain things was too deep t that it bothered him a little.
"What of me?"
"Naruto said he is also a wind user. He'll return and will train you along with other shinobi who have an affinity to it," Baki said. He'd been surprised because the blond hadn't displayed any affinity to Wind. Then again, the Sharingan was known to be able to copy any Ninjutsu. Kakashi was famous for having copied over a thousand jutsu.
"Ah, great," Temari replied with mild sarcasm.
"Is there going to be an issue?" Baki asked with a raised eye brow.
"He was already giving us lessons during the second round of the Chunin exams," Kankuro said with displeasure. "I wouldn't want to train under him."
Temari agreed. "He can be annoying." She heaved a heavy sigh. "Well, training with him means we'll know his secrets and weaknesses just in case he ever tries to turn on us."
"You don't trust him?"
"Do you?" Temari stared at Baki.
"He hasn't given me any reason not to trust him. But you're right, we must be cautious. Everything just seems too good at the moment."
They still didn't know much about the blond—blind trust would simply be their downfall. Perhaps it was also a natural instinct for a shinobi. Given what they had just gone through with Orochimaru, trusting outsiders for the village would prove some doing.
"At any event, he'll be busy with you and others as soon as he returns. I'll be busy running the village," Baki added. Political games within the village were proving to be a little challenging for him. And it also seemed he'd have to play those games with the Feudal Lord. "Gaining strength is important for us… for our survival."
Earlier
Itachi frowned deeply seeing Jiraiya with Tsunade. The Sannin was not a man he wanted to fight, not with his health. They couldn't have come here at a worse time than this.
"We should consider waiting for him to leave before making a move," Itachi said to Naruto. He didn't want to end up doing anything that would deprive the Leaf of its shinobi.
Naruto smiled hearing Itachi. "You don't want to face him?"
"He is a Sannin."
"There are two of them." Naruto added. But what of it? It would be simple for Itachi to disable Jiraiya if he made eye contact with the Toad Sage.
Still to face a Sannin of Jiraiya's calibre was a health hazard. Orochimaru was fine because of his arrogance. The man they were looking at had no such superiority issues and would go on the attack mercilessly. If he made any movements, he might even end up getting captured—unless, of course, he decided to use Amaterasu. The more he thought of it, he realized, the jutsu should be used as his last resort. Keeping using it and people will figure a way to get around it.
"You're not even bothered."
Naruto shrugged. "What is there to fear? Jiraiya is someone I wouldn't willingly fight. But this will be a good lesson for me. Experience is the best teacher," he smiled. "I think I can buy you a minute."
"A minute wouldn't be enough."
Naruto smiled. "Well, we went to see Sasori because we needed some stimulants. I'll go in have manipulate someone to serve them drinks…"
Itachi glanced at him. "Such a method would work against Sannin?"
"You're a former Anbu, you should know better. People get poisoned all the time. Someone like Tsunade would deal with it, but it will give you enough time to weaken her." Being at a restaurant, they were going to order food and drinks. It would be simple to slip something. Sasori was quite good with this poisons. Who thought of getting poisoned in the middle of nowhere? Not even Jiraiya would be that cautious. "Tsunade lives like this. She is used to eating and drinking at restaurants. Besides, she is an expert in the field of medical Ninjutsu, they will always be safe in the knowledge that if they get poisoned, she can resist long enough to find a cure."
Itachi had always thought Naruto was a straight forward person but he really was shinobi. He was willing to use any method to win.
"I'm not worried about the effectiveness of your plan. How are you going to get in there without anyone noticing? They are Sannin, no matter how much you suppress your chakra, you can't hide from them."
"Ah, yes… that kind of problem but I don't have to go inside the restaurant." Naruto said in a measured tone.
"We can't have Jiraiya knowing I am here. He'll want to come back to Tsunade," the Uchiha said with a slight shake of his head. "You go in and request to speak with him. He now knows you are in Suna. Take him somewhere… Or we could just wait and see if they can separate. I assume he is here to try to convince her to return to Konoha." He paused, thinking. "We can afford to stay away for a little longer. Jiraiya being here changes things…" he glanced at Naruto. "Why are you willing to risk it by going in with him being there?"
"The fun of things."
"Create a clone to observe them. It can warn us once they have separated. You can move in to hold Jiraiya company while I deal with Tsunade."
"You didn't tell me how you're going on about that."
Itachi didn't reply but just stood up and walked away. Naruto released a heavy sigh and followed after the Uchiha.
Later that night
The group had stayed in the restaurant for a couple of hours. They went their separate ways with Tsunade opting to gamble and drink. Jiraiya didn't leave the town—Itachi assumed he had failed in trying to get her to return to Konoha with him. Naruto thought the Slug Princess' attitude would only strengthen Itachi. The man was a whore for his village and would turn on anyone who threatened it. Tsunade had not done such but she abandoned her village. Even in time of need, she didn't want to return home. Past glories would mean nothing. Shinobi fought for their villages until the last drop. That instead of using a medical Ninjutsu to for sake of Konoha, she was just loitering around purposely must truly sting.
The Uchiha had separated from him. Naruto was now in a bar, where Jiraiya sat at a corner. The place was crowded with civilians and one or two shinobi. No one from the Great Five. The Sannin wasn't alone. Naruto figured he was with someone from his spy network.
"Mind if I join?"
Jiraiya stared at him curiously. Naruto had done a transformation. Civilians still frowned in seeing children in such places. There were days he got told to run back to his parents. Only if they knew his parents were just bones and memories.
"This voice," The Sannin's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Naruto."
"Oh?" Naruto raised an eye brow, making himself comfortable across the table. "You haven't heard me that much and you can still recognize my voice. Impressive, Jiraiya-sama."
Jiraiya nodded at the man he'd been sitting with and the man stood up. There were questions he wanted to ask but Naruto wouldn't just show up here for nothing, would he? Tsunade was also present in the Town. What did the blond want? Did he come here with someone?
"I could never forget your voice."
"So it would seem."
"Bold of you to come here after making yourself an enemy of Konoha. If I take you here, Suna's resistance will end and Konoha will not have to suffer with invading." He didn't think there was anything that would make Danzo quit. One way or the other, he was going invade Suna.
Naruto shrugged indifferently. "A man's love for his village is truly something, isn't it? Perhaps I will grow to love Suna in the same way."
Naruto sounded genuine about it that Jiraiya's thoughts halted for a moment.
"You told you me you wouldn't attack Konoha. Then why did you choose to become its enemy?"
"I didn't choose to become Konoha's enemy. I merely chose to protect Suna's independence. Once it became clear Danzo had become Hokage, I knew Suna wouldn't have any other option." Besides, what good would it do to allow Danzo to have his way? Chaos was fine. It was the nature of man. But those who ran after it must bleed along the way.
"Why?"
"I don't have a place to call home. I thought, maybe Suna could become my home. I must admit, I hate the environment but I'll get used to it."
"Either way, you'll eventually cross path with Konoha shinobi," Jiraiya said with an expressionless mask. "There is a side I must take."
"You want to put an end to me right here?"
"If it saves the lives of many Konoha shinobi, then I must do so." The Sannin replied resolutely. Kushina would castrate him. But this was his failure. He failed to protect Naruto and now he had to protect Konoha from Naruto.
"Nobody is taking anyone." Naruto said with a wave of his right hand.
"You think I can't?"
Naruto smiled. "I wouldn't dare," he said. "Strong, but compared to you, I'm still just a child. Anyway, make a move and everyone in this place dies. I don't have a problem in transforming into the Kyubi to protect myself."
Jiraiya stared at him coldly.
"Well, that is surprising. What disgusts you? Is it that I would kill innocent people or that I am thinking about it?"
"Both."
"Your former friend was torturing people and you didn't seem to care. Well, that is how things work. I didn't come here to wrestle with you. It wouldn't lead to anything good for me." Or Jiraiya for that matter.
"Why did to come here? Now of all times."
"Danzo is going to lead Konoha into a bloody path. It could come out on top or face destruction. You're a man of peace, but the route Danzo takes is very different. The calmness now is just peace before a storm. You know that," Naruto stared curiously. "Why don't you kill Danzo?"
"And destabilize Konoha?"
"Killing him wouldn't destabilize anything. But Konoha would lose you. However, wouldn't you say that is better for Konoha than allowing Danzo to rule?"
"Did you come here to question me about treason?"
Naruto shook his head. "I have met people, Jiraiya-sama… people who will kill their loved ones for the sake of their ideals. People who wouldn't mind plunging this shinobi world into darkness for their ideals. There is just nothing they are not willing to do… you have ideals… if war is coming and you can stop it but do not are you truly steadfast in your ideals?"
"You say a lot for a brat."
Naruto laughed coldly. "Learning is important" he said. "But it's fine if you don't want to explain. I just thought someone with your experience might helpful."
"You really didn't come here for that, did you?" Jiraiya asked with narrowed eyes.
"What do you think I came here for? If you find my company unbearable, I'll leave. Suna awaits me anyway."
"If I'm steadfast in my ideals, will I let you leave just like that? I'm fast enough to closer the distance between us before you do anything."
"Shinobi are truly the same, at least fundamentally." To protect Konoha and keep it from a bloody war with Suna, Jiraiya would turn on him. "You'll take me to Danzo?"
Jiraiya shook his head. "I wouldn't be able to live myself if I watch you being turned into a weapon. I'll just make sure you stay away, even if it means I have to permanently disable your chakra system." The Sannin said in a hardened tone.
Naruto whistled. "The future truly, doesn't look pleasant for me," he said. "In the event I manage to escape from you; one day, when the shinobi world is in chaos and the shinobi world has turned on Konoha, come capture me… I'll kill Danzo and all those loyal to him…"
"You'd do that for Konoha?"
Naruto snorted. "That man leaked out the fact that I was the Kyubi's Jinchuriki. Had it not been him, I would have lived a normal life. I'd honestly thought it was the Sandaime because he wanted me to be seen as a hero. He was naïve like that. But it was that man. Killing him is out of my selfish desire to punish someone for the pain I have suffered. But I don't just want to do without another reason." He then smiled. "Besides, if I do that, you'll owe me for the rest of your life."
"So, that's what you want." Jiraiya really didn't want to think about what Naruto was offering. At least, for now, there was no need for the extreme. "It doesn't sound like you have any interest in war with Konoha. But you've become an enemy. To protect Suna, you'll kill Konoha shinobi."
"Well, that is only natural."
"Such a shame…" Jiraiya said sadly. "I'll do anything to protect Konoha. But these people are innocent, I would rather we not involve them."
Naruto smiled. "Sure, why not?" He stood up.
Jiraiya stood up as well. The second he did, he staggered, nearly falling and had to place his hands on the table. He felt disoriented. Everything around him was spinning. It felt like he was really drunk but he hadn't drank that much to be drunk. His eyes turned to Naruto coldly. Even as everything was spinning, he managed go close the distance between them, getting hold of the Jinchuriki on his wrist.
"What did you do?" He demanded, speaking in a clear tone.
"Nothing harmful. What? I wasn't going to face a Sannin head on. I knew there was a possibility you'd not let me leave…" he smiled. "We won't see each other until after a couple of years, Jiraiya-sama. I hope, you stay safe until then."
Earlier
Tsunade was still up, slowly nursing her emotional scars with alcohol while Shizune slept. A knock at the door and her eyes lazily went toward it. If the woman was still awake, she'd go there and see who it was. Her eyes narrowed, who could it be at this time of the night? There was just one person at the door. Could it be someone she owed money?
A knock again.
It wasn't anything forceful. Just a gentle knock you normally heard from hotel staff. After pondering for a minute, Tsunade stood up and walked over to the door. When she opened it, she was alarmed to find the Mangekyo Sharingan staring at her. Her face became stern realizing the man in front of her was none other than the notorious Itachi Uchiha.
"I apologize for coming this late, Tsunade-sama. Do you mind if I come in?"
End of chapter
Thank you for the reviews!
The Omnipresent Sage