Welcome to the next chapter!
Xion kuchiki 15; Yeah, they could be meeting soon~ That would be cool if he did.
Morregen; Glad you liked the fight between them. Here's the chapter!
joharasbel; Thanks!
shephawk; Yeah, that would be cool. That would be a cool peerage, thanks for the suggestions!
ShadowUzumaki55; Glad you liked it! Itachi was, Ryouta never gave up, and managed to push Itachi. Itach's clone did yeah, Mikoto was very happy to see him again. Lets hope they get to her yeah.
Silver crow; Thanks! Glad you liked the fight between them. Ryouta did yeah. Yeah, we'll see what happens. Satsuki and Sakura did yeah. That's how it goes with Kakashi. It's been stated he's been battling with his illness for years and kept himself alive with various medications and will power, so I thought it would make sense to acknowledge it here with Izumi around to do her best to treat it. Mikoto can see through Itachi's stoic nature, and understand her son quite well. Yeah, Ryouta did quite well. Kisame is quite determined yeah. Itachi told Ryouta that he's forcing Izumi to be with him to protect Ryouta, so seeing her not try to leave makes sense to him, and she showed later by stopping Kisame going after Ryouta. Yeah, he knows Itachi's very strong, stronger than Orochimaru, but he still wont go down without a fight. Yeah, Itachi doesn't know everything Ryouta's Mangekyou can do, Ryouta of course knows everything his eyes can do, it's his ace in the sleeve, while Ryouta also knows everything about Itachi's having witnessed it. Ryouta did yeah, they'll be able to track him down now. We'll see when they awaken those eyes. I can't spoil about Hiruzen yet, only to say that there is still stuff that he's going to be involved in. Ryouta and the Hokage's will have some kind of meeting in the future. Izumi's been trained by Itachi, she can take down a good number of strong Ninja by herself. Ryouta could pick up some stuff from Kisame yeah. Thanks for the harem suggestions. I can't spoil about Ameyuri yet, she's still got stuff to do. Issei Replacement came in second, with a few reaching joint third place such as Lost Shinigami and Villains Hero. Yeah, it's interesting with irene. It looks like the Bleach animes going to be pretty awesome. Yeah, maybe Tsunade could remember him. We'll see what happens between them. They could become Chunin.
Anime Lovers Indonesia; Thanks! Yeah, he'll be meeting up with them soon enough. Tsunade could do. That woman could be.
TheGreatGodzilla; Yeah, they're becoming friendlier with one another. Ino and Sakura are still friends. Who knows why Orochimaru didn't go for Naruto, maybe because he wanted the Sharingan first and then was going to go for the Nine Tails or something like that. They could find out. Things are getting pretty intense yeah. Thanks for the harem suggestions. I haven't decided about that yet. Any child of Ryouta's has the potential to awaken the Sharingan and depending on who the child is with, then maybe even more than that.
Kdidier; Maybe in the future, as you said it is quite long.
Hinata fan; Yeah, Itachi didn't like it. He did yeah. Yeah, Ryouta's quite determined to get to Izumi. We'll see how it goes with Tsunade soon.
Guest 1; Glad you liked the interactions between Sakura and Satsuki. I'm glad that you enjoyed the fight. Kakashi and Ryouta have some practice teamwork during the month between the exams. Yeah, Ryouta's not going to stand the taunts of Itachi, I'm sure Yukine would be quite proud of her son. Yeah, they both had quite the brutal exchange of Genjutsu's between their Sharingan. Izumi and Kisame have quite a close relationship, the backstory on that shall be shown in the future. Yeah, I'd say it would be a more quiet rage than explosive if Ryouta ever gets truly angry. He did yeah, Mikoto and Itachi had a reunion, of sorts. Yeah, maybe he'll be able to have an encounter with Tsunade before she comes back to the village. He could study some more Ninja from the bingo book. Thanks very much! Thanks for the harem suggestions.
Andrew123456; Issei Replacement came in second, with a few reaching joint third place such as Lost Shinigami and Villains Hero, Miya's son came fourth, and Third Sahashi came fifth.
War Sage; Thanks! Thanks for the harem suggestions.
Darkwubs; Thanks for the vote. Cao Cao wasn't religious either, so the God's will thing wouldn't matter really. It will be revealed the next chapter of that story about what's happening with the poll. I'm sure Diodora would be pissed off about that yeah.
Wavelord; Thanks! Thanks for the harem suggestion!
Guestforce; Glad you liked it! Thanks for the harem suggestions.
JustAFan; Thanks! Yeah, Mikoto and Itachi surely did. Thanks for the harem suggestions.
Guest 2; Not until shippuden, thanks for the suggestions.
With those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Satsuki's determination!
Once the clone of Itachi had left them, Mikoto and Hiruzen absorbed all of the information that they could do. The former was happy to have seen her son again, but part of her wished for more time, and more than a part of her wished that he could have stayed in the village, but she knew that it wasn't a possibility right now.
"So, that's how it is...and Naruko is out with Jiraiya-sama right now."
Mikoto began, Hiruzen nods.
"Yes, he will do his best to keep the girl safe."
Mikoto bit her lower lip.
Conflicting feelings within her, knowing what she did and what she learned from Itachi.
"But against all four of them? I know he's powerful, but to be convincing, wouldn't Itachi and Izumi-san also have to show that they are serious? If they go all out, and showcase their powers...I hate to say it but I don't think Jiraiya-sama can take all four of them."
Hiruzen knew that to be the truth.
He thought about the best thing that they could do.
"You do have a point. Jiraiya is strong, and while I trust in his capabilities, if those two with Itachi and Izumi are indeed as strong as Itachi had said, then even Jiraiya would have difficulties in what to do. Mikoto, I have a mission for you-"
Before he could speak, the door was knocked on.
Giving them entry, the person that came in was Guy himself.
Guy exhaled slowly, as Hiruzen raised a brow.
"Guy, what's going on?"
"We've had trouble sir, both Asuma and Kurenai have been taken down. Kakashi isn't looking to hot either."
"Who did this?"
Hiruzen feigned ignorance of this situation, knowing that he couldn't say anything about Itachi right now.
Guy collected his thoughts, and then began speaking once more.
"It was Itachi Uchiha sir. Together with Izumi Uchiha, a woman who could create and even become paper, and a man named...his name was...aah, his name would be..." Hiruzen sweat dropped as did Mikoto. "A man with a huge sword!" Hiruzen slowly nods, while Mikoto watched on. "Kakashi's exhausted from overusing the Sharingan, so Ryouta Uchiha took him to get some rest at the hospital-"
"Ryouta-kun...h-he came into contact with Itachi?"
Mikoto didn't like the sound of that.
If they did...then she didn't even know how he was feeling right now.
Because of what Itachi represented to Ryouta, in terms of what went on with Shisui, and also Izumi.
She was just thankful that Satsuki hadn't come across Itachi, just yet.
Though that also made her wonder, if she did, what would Satsuki be doing right now?
"Yes, he managed to save Kakashi from what I've been told, and helped drive off Itachi and the others. Without him, the situation could have been worse. He also told me to tell you that he has a way to track Itachi down."
Mikoto reeled from the news.
Hiruzen was proud because even during such a situation, Ryouta managed to track down Itachi so they could go after them again, and if that was indeed the case, then they'd be able to pull their abilities together, and get towards them and Naruko, to assist Jiraiya.
"Guy, go and fetch me Ryouta Uchiha. This has to be kept strictly between us for the time being. We have to also secure the village, but Itachi Uchiha is someone of interest to us. Mikoto, while Guy's doing that, have your team secure the village, and report on any other situation that's been happening within the village."
"Yes sir."
Mikoto vanished from sight in the quickest of movements.
Guy also left to go and get Ryouta.
Hiruzen was left alone, and he thought about how this situation was going to go, what was happening with Itachi and Naruko as well.
After the battle, Ryouta took Kakashi to have some rest in the hospital just in case something happened with his Sensei. Overusing the Sharingan, he could see that Kakashi was tired out. He himself was also thinking about the fight with Itachi, and wished that he could have kept going.
"Sensei, please rest here. I've sent word for a doctor to come and check on you just in case."
Kakashi felt almost ashamed that he couldn't do more.
Seeing a student of his being capable of using his power and stopped Itachi from doing something that could have put him out of commission permanently. Even now though, he did feel as if he could have contributed even more.
"Itachi, he's really strong now."
Ryouta nods his head once.
"He is yes, he's stronger than Orochimaru, Sensei. At least, that's the impression that I got when we fought. He also was going to use Tsukuyomi on you. It's a very powerful Genjutsu, one that I've experienced first hand myself."
Kakashi had to agree.
With the way Itachi moved, and how fast he was, especially with how quickly he disabled him, and could have used his powers, it was clear to Kakashi that this was no ordinary threat, Itachi was on a whole new level.
"So if that had hit me, would that have killed me?"
"Since it is a Mangekyou ability and from what I experienced and heard...I wouldn't put it past it to have the power to kill someone."
Kakashi grimaced and was glad that Ryouta did what he did, otherwise he wouldn't be sure what could have happened.
Ryouta then pulled back, and bowed his head.
"Sensei, I'm sorry I couldn't stop Itachi and the others."
Ryouta wished he could have done more.
He wished he could have saved Izumi from what had happened.
"No, do not worry about that. You did amazing during that fight."
Ryouta smiled softly, as he began making his way to the door.
A doctor then came in so Ryouta wished to give Kakashi sometime alone.
When he left the room, he came across Guy standing a small distance from the door.
"What's shakin Uchiha-kun?"
"Eh...nothing, Guy-sensei. Kakashi-sensei is just getting checked over right now, he should be fine with some rest."
Guy gave a large grin on his lips.
"That sounds like my rival! Hokage-sama has requested your presence, on the double."
"Aah, okay Guy-sensei."
Ryouta bowed, and rushed off towards Hokage.
Meanwhile, Satsuki finished her training for the time being, and decided to try and find where everyone was. It seemed not only Kakashi, but her Mother, and others had disappeared.
So while walking through the village, she came across the battlefield of the Akatsuki and the others. She saw some gathering around, wondering what had happened. The destruction alone was more than enough to alert her to something was wrong.
So she looked for the highest authority in charge, and found that it was Yugao, who was in full Anbu gear. Even with the mask on, she recognized the woman's hair, so she made her way closer, and closer.
As she did, she overheard a conversation between some Ninja assisting Yugao who was leading the clean up of the area, and making sure that everyone stayed back.
"I can't believe they infiltrated the village."
"Yes, but it seems that Kakashi and Ryouta-kun managed to fend them off. But Kurenai and Asuma also seemed to go through a lot."
"Even then, the fact that the newly made Jonin fought off someone so strong, it's amazing."
"I know, it's really good that we have such Ninja in this village."
When she heard about Ryouta's name, and even Kakashi's, Satsuki shot for Yugao.
"Yugao, what happened with Ryou?"
Yugao was stunned by Satsuki appearing, remembering that she shouldn't say anything about Itachi, so she didn't.
"All I know is that there was a battle with enemy Ninja, and that Ryou has gone to the hospital-"
"Hospital...Ryou..."
She turned, and rushed towards the hospital as fast as she could, with Yugao looking on in concern.
She hoped that Satsuki didn't find out what was going on with Ryouta right now.
"Yahoo! I can't wait to learn this Jutsu! I'll show Satsuki my strength too!"
Naruko cheered out as she, and Jiraiya travelled around together. Moving across the dirt road, Jiraiya could see the keenness in her eyes, moving towards what looked like an ice cream shop, so he moved closer as well.
He got some ice cream, and gave one of them to the surprised Naruko.
"Here, have one of these."
"T-Thanks."
Naruko took the ice cream, and began eating it, while Jiraiya stretched his arms above his head.
"Aah, I wonder what your boyfriend is doing right now?"
Teasing the young girl, Naruko's eyes shot for Jiraiya with a shy look and an angry one as well.
"Don't say that!"
"Why not?"
"Because he isn't!"
"But, you've got a crush, right? I saw it, don't deny it now~"
Naruko ground her teeth as Jiraiya snickered.
However, in the middle of Jiraiya's teasing, a thought came to Naruko.
"Say, why did you choose me anyway? You could have chosen anyone to go, even Ryou. He's a Jonin now you know?"
"He's a Jonin?!"
Jiraiya yelled out, showing his surprised face, Naruko nodded with glee.
"Yup, he is~ Haha, are you shocked?"
Jiraiya laughed, then shook his head.
"No, I already knew~" Naruko face faults. "But yeah, I didn't take him, because one, he's got other stuff to do, and because of you, Naruko. You remind me of someone that I trained a good while ago actually."
"I do? Who is it?"
"Only the Fourth~"
Naruko gleamed, shooting closer and gained a large grin on her face.
"No kidding! You trained the Fourth?!"
"Why do you sound so disbelieving?"
"Because, it's you, Pervy Sage! You're so pervy!"
Jiraiya huffed, his eyebrows kneading together.
"Well, I did, so there."
"So you trained the Fourth...say, you must know of Ryou's Mom, right?"
"...Yukine-chan, you mean?"
Jiraiya's voice and tone were low, almost as if Jiraiya didn't want to even talk about her.
"Yeah, her. W-Why is that, something of a problem with her?"
Jiraiya shuddered.
"She's...so beautiful, but she was very strong, and she didn't like it when I tried to peak on women. Yeah, some scary times happened, and I'd rather not talk about it." Naruko snorted to Jiraiya's annoyance. "Why do you ask anyway? Shouldn't it be that kid asking about his Mom?"
"It's so I can tell him obviously!"
"Well, when we're together, I'll tell you some stories."
Jiraiya laughed out, Naruko was still quite amazed to hear what he was hearing.
"So, if you trained the Fourth, who trained you?"
"None other than our resident retiring Hokage. Sarutobi-sensei is my Sensei."
"Wow...trained by the old man, and trained the Fourth."
Jiraiya nods, taking a lick of his ice cream.
"Say, did you ever do that bell test? I'm sure Kakashi did, right?"
"Ehehe..." Naruko became nervous. "It was...yeah, we did it. It was a hard test...we didn't really work together at first, but Sakura-chan helped us come together, and though it was difficult, we somehow managed to pass the test. But, without the others, I would have lost~"
Jiraiya laughed, internally thinking about his own bell test. How his teammates, Tsunade and Orochimaru received the bells, and he himself ended up tied to a stump, and as he thought about it, he watched Naruko acting rather childlike, making him smile softly, fondly, remembering things about Naruko's parents as well...
Back with Ryouta, he got towards Hiruzen and explained what had happened after making sure that they were alone at this moment in time, with both Itachi and Konan. When hearing about the Konan news, he was very surprised. It seemed that since Itachi didn't mention it, that even he didn't know about this Konan doing that in the first place.
"...So this leader of this Konan wants you for some reason. Did she indicate why?"
Ryouta shook his head a single time.
"She didn't say anything about it, and her expressions were difficult to discern. But from what my best guess would be, must either be my eyes, or the Shinigami masks location. Apart from that, I don't really know why. She said that she wasn't with Orochimaru and indicated that she hates him. So that's something at least Hokage-sama."
Hiruzen nods his head.
"Yes, quite. Now that you've said it, I would also believe they weren't. Still, you managed to place a snake on Itachi?"
"Yes, I thought that because we were at a disadvantage at that time, that we could go after him after regrouping."
"Indeed, that is a good idea. However, I cannot allow you to go."
Like that, Ryouta was brought to shock.
"B...But Hokage-sama, I..."
Ryouta wanted to do this.
If he heard what was true, then his friends were in trouble, Naruko, someone he cared immensely about, was in trouble, and he wanted to go and protect her.
Hiruzen could see the fire in his eyes, the will to protect others shined brightly within him.
However, his own nature, rebelled against his inner judgement about what to do, and ultimately, he didn't want Ryouta to suffer anymore. Seeing Itachi and Izumi that day was more than enough, if anything else happened...then he didn't know what was going to happen.
"I know the feelings that you have regarding Izumi Uchiha, and her being there, I don't feel right asking you to go after someone that you considered to be a sister, it would be the last thing that I would want for you to do."
Ryouta could understand the position of the Hokage, and he also understood why Hiruzen didn't want Ryouta to go.
However, Ryouta also believed in his own thoughts, and what he thought would be best for the village itself right now.
"If it's about that...then you don't have to worry. I...I do want to save Izumi-chan, that is one of my goals for my life. However...I also know that she right now is the opposing force against Konoha, even if it is Itachi forcing her, I know that right now...she is with the enemy of Konoha."
Saying it left a bitter taste in Ryouta's mouth.
He hated that he had to think of her as the enemy.
He then continued as Hiruzen was still in doubt.
"Hokage-sama...I also have to go, because he has the Mangekyou Sharingan. That Dojutsu, not many would be able to fight. I don't know if you're going to send Mikoto-san or not...but this can't be easy for her either, this is her son, I want to support her, and make sure that she's safe as well. Satsuki-chan is also on my mind, if she finds out that he's been here, then I know she'll want to go. That's why, please send me to this fight. I can and will do what I can for this villages and its peoples safety...please, allow me this chance to stop them."
Hiruzen could hear his kind and strong words.
This was one of the reasons that he decided to promote Ryouta to Jonin, seeing despite his young age, that he was doing his best.
More than that, the passion that he had for this, was something Hiruzen could connect to the Will of Fire, with how he was speaking about and wanting to help the village, and those that he cared for.
He also believed that Ryouta was right, if he didn't know about Itachi's good side, and viewed Itachi as an enemy, then Ryouta would be one of the best people to go due to the eyes that he has, and how he'd be able to battle, and with so little Ninja on their side right now, that he would be one of the best choices to go after Itachi and the others.
"Ryouta-kun, I can hear the passion in your voice. You are right, you do have one of the best chances of stopping him with your eyes. However, I also feel...protective over your emotions and heart. My heart is telling me not to allow you to go, so you don't have to suffer, while my head is telling me that you are making sense, and have the capacity to deal with this."
Listening to his words, it was clear from Ryouta's perspective on what Hiruzen was feeling right now.
It made sense that Hiruzen was feeling as he was.
"I really do appreciate your kindness Hokage-sama, and I understand why such a battle would be going on inside of you. But please don't worry about me, I steeled myself long ago. Ever since I learned that Izumi-chan was with Itachi. If he brainwashed her or what, I was preparing myself to face her if it is necessary. Of course, it is the last thing that I want to do, but I shall do it for the safety of everyone. So please, allow me to go."
Ryouta could easily take off, but he didn't want to do that.
He wanted Hiruzen to place trust in him and know that even in this dire situation, that Ryouta wouldn't be stopped, and he'd fight Izumi if it really came down to it. He didn't want to do that of course, and it would cause immense pain...but for the good of those that were around, for Satsuki and Mikoto, as heartbreaking as it would be...Ryouta would do his best.
Hiruzen thought about it, more and more.
In the end, he believed that it might be good if Ryouta did go.
"...Ryouta-kun, go and get prepared. Mikoto will be leading the mission with you, Guy, and Karin. Anko and Haku shall stay back in the village in case of unexpected surprises, of course with other Ninja. We can only spare you four right now. With three of our Jonin out..."
"Yes I understand, leave it with me Hokage-sama!"
Ryouta bowed, and ran off, leaving behind Hiruzen.
Hiruzen hoped that this would be for the best, and prayed to see Ryouta being well.
A small time later on, Satsuki got to the hospital, and looked around for Ryouta. She went to the desk to see if he had been checked in, but that seemed to not be the case, which brought her relief, and confusion at the same time.
"Ryou's not here...so he wasn't injured, that's good. He at least hasn't been hurt. Still, who the hell was it that came here anyway? And what did they want? It seems that only a few people were aware of what was going on, very strange...still, Ryou's okay, and that's enough for me. I'm glad that's the outcome...best go and see Kakashi."
She decided to go and check on Kakashi instead, wondering if he was okay, and if Ryouta was with him, so she could get some information on what was going on and why they were attacked, and by who at the same time.
So while moving through the halls, she ended up on the same level as Kakashi's room was in.
She saw in the distance that Guy had entered Kakashi's room.
So she moved closer towards the door that Kakashi was behind.
When she did, she heard the conversation with a Ninja leaving Kakashi's room together with another one. She didn't recognize them, but based on their clothing, she guessed at least Chunin with them wearing the flak jacket.
"I still can't believe that Itachi Uchiha came back to this village after all this time."
When hearing the name, her eyes widened and she hid herself quite expertly as she listened into the conversation.
"Yeah, and accompanied by three others. Even Izumi Uchiha I heard."
"It seems that the Uchiha kid that recently got promoted fought him off."
"Yeah, saved Kakashi's neck it seems."
When she heard it, Satsuki's face dropped.
She became pale white.
"Ryou...fought Itachi. He was here...Izumi was here..."
Satsuki placed a hand over her mouth as she quietly began leaving the area.
If Itachi was there, and Ryouta had confronted him, she wished to know what had happened, if he got anything out of Itachi and if he managed to hurt Itachi.
If he did, then she wondered if she could as well.
If he had to resort to using his Mangekyou eyes against Itachi.
"Ryou...so, Itachi's finally back. After all this time...he's really come back. He said that he'd take Ryou from me last time...no, I wont let him. I wont let him win, he wont get Ryou, he wont take Ryou away from me."
Determination shot through her.
She recalled Itachi's words very clearly within her mind.
How he had threatened to kill Ryouta, to make her stronger.
She never wanted that power if it meant that Ryouta would be killed.
She also remembered how Ryouta had said that he'd give up his eyes power to have Shisui back.
It was the same for her.
If her Mother, or Ryouta were killed by Itachi...
She couldn't allow it to happen this time, she'd not lose the people that she loves.
Many questions ran through her mind, and she ended up running away from the area, and tried to find the young man.
The battle with Konoha, was pretty hard for Izumi. Though she did her best, and kept up the stoic like expressions that she needed to, when she saw Ryouta again, she did feel some strong emotions, she felt it deep inside of her, and she felt depressed that she couldn't do anything for Ryouta when she saw him.
Though she was impressed at the skills that he had gained since he was a child.
While travelling together with her usual trio of herself, Itachi and Kisame, Konan also tagged along, and simply stared at the three of them. Neither Itachi or Izumi spoke about what had happened, while Kisame himself was recounting what had happened, and how excited he was for what had come to pass.
"Damn that kid was cool."
Kisame began, catching Izumi's attention.
"Hmmm?"
"You know, that boy, the Uchiha. Did you see how he fought Itachi? Haha, next time, he's mine. Itachi, don't get in the way!"
Itachi didn't reply, and simply looked at him with the same stoic expression that he usually had on.
"So, you fought the Uchiha boy, did you?"
Konan asked Itachi, the male Uchiha answered with a movement of his neck.
"Yes, I also fought against him. It seems that he didn't disappoint, he has become a good deal stronger since we last met."
Kisame snapped his fingers.
"Why didn't you tell me he had those eyes?"
"I didn't know."
Itachi lied, Izumi lowering her brows.
"Konoha surely will become on high alert now that we had been discovered, huh."
Kisame laughed.
"Yeah, but it's fine, I'll stand by you best friend." Izumi smiled as Kisame continued. "Ameyuri's words were right, it seems that the boy is going to be something of a good sport for me and Samehada."
Itachi didn't say anything, while Izumi looked on with worry masked as intrigue.
"Is that so Kisame-kun?"
"Yeah, that's right best friend." His eyes turned to Konan. "By the way, going to spill what you were up to during the time in the village? It seems that you also had some people fighting you."
"I came across Ryouta Uchiha."
Izumi's eyes became alert, while Itachi raised the subtlest of brows.
"Did anything happen between you?"
"That is something that I cannot share. Though, I have to express joy at the remarkable ways that he spoke and how he fought. It seems that the Uchiha are full of surprises, ones that I am happy to see come to fruition before my eyes-"
Before Konan could finish, Kisame's raging eyes shot for the blue haired woman.
"You fought him too?"
"For a brief time, we did yes."
"Damn it!" Kisame snapped. "Why did you get to fight him huh? I wanted to do that, not you!"
"It seems that you're angry. But our objective is the same in the end, so it doesn't matter who-"
"Yes it does. That's right, I'll also tell you. Next time we see the kid, I'm fighting him. I don't care about your Uchiha stuff, and your secrecy either paper girl, you probably went to look for him to date anyway."
Konan paused, and stared at Kisame with half lidded eyes.
"...What?"
Izumi watched Kisame's face turn semi amused by what was going on.
"That's what best friend thought." Izumi slapped her forehead, while Konan gave curious eyes. "Anyway, I'm telling you all now. The next time we meet, that boy is my opponent. I wont allow anyone to get in the way. Sorry best friend, also includes you."
"The likelihood of running into him now is low, considering that we've got the Nine Tails path. All we need to do is distract the old man with her, and then we can seize this chance to grasp Naruko Uzumaki. Is everyone clear on the plan?"
Though she said it in a monotone, she held serious eyes, and indicated that she was being just as serious right now that she was when on any other mission.
Itachi and Kisame merely nodded, Izumi did the same thing with pain in her heart.
Ryouta quickly returned back home to grab some stuff that he might need. He didn't take many things and packed light since this mission wasn't going to be one that he'd have time to stop and rest, so he took some scrolls in case he needed some paper bombs, or anything else he stored within them.
While quickly packing the stuff that he needed, his mind cast back to the situation revolving around the Uchiha Massacre, it wasn't a memory that he found himself revisiting often, but it was one that always did stick within his mind.
But now that Itachi was back in their lives, he could only imagine how Satsuki would be feeling if she knew. He didn't know right now that she was aware, and if it was up to him, then he felt like she did have a right to know about this.
As he finished, he paused, and looked at a picture on the right hand side.
The picture of him, and Izumi together with Shisui.
Giving a fond smile, his mind recalled back to what happened in the fight with Itachi and how Izumi was during that part.
"Izumi-chan, I don't know what's going on, but I'm more determined than ever to rescue you. This is my chance, I haven't trained all of this time for nothing, I can't stop now until you're back with me Izumi-chan."
Many thoughts ran through his mind, Itachi's words also filled his mind.
He then looked at the picture of Satsuki and him together.
"I'm sorry Satsuki-chan, if it was up to me, then we'd go together. But it seems that you can't come...but I promise to do what I can to bring Itachi before you, so you can decide what happens with him. I know that you'd prefer to do it yourself, but this is the best that I can do right now..."
Ryouta knew with him, Satsuki would be able to keep her composure.
But he also understood the position of Hiruzen and the others about why she couldn't come from the information he received after leaving Hiruzen's office.
So with conviction and sadness within his heart, he turned, and left the house behind, giving his promise that he would do his best for her.
Ryouta managed to get to the meeting area second, with Mikoto being the first to appear. Standing beside her at the front of the gates to Konoha, Mikoto's eyes looked forward,her mind on the mission at hand.
However, Ryouta had something to ask, so he spoke up towards her.
"Mikoto-san, how are you feeling? This mission...it is to do with your son, and he...the last time you saw one another, he nearly killed you..."
Mikoto exhaled slowly, her eyes shifting back towards Ryouta.
"That's sweet that you're thinking about me, but really, I'm fine."
"Really?"
Ryouta wondered, his eyes going towards Mikoto who in of herself looked to be trying to force her face to become more and more natural as the time went on, but it looked rather difficult from the perspective of someone like Ryouta.
Mikoto let out a hollow laugh.
"I suppose it would be expected of me to say that this is something I can easily put aside and go after this mission as if nothing is effecting me. A Ninja would have to say that, wouldn't they Ryou-kun?"
Ryouta began shaking his head for a few moments, then stopped and peered into her eyes with as much kindness as he could muster up for her.
"I don't think Ninja's have to be cold and unfeeling at all Mikoto-san. I don't think we should have to push our emotions to the side, and simply say that this is something you can easily do. I know it isn't easy for me, and Izumi-chan isn't even my blood sister or anything..."
Mikoto moved closer, and looked at the young man's eyes.
She showed a soft smile on her face, and she gave a comforting look.
"Don't worry about me, I really am okay. I can't say that this is an easy task for me, but I understand why I am going on this mission. This is also about protecting Naruko-chan and making sure this Akatsuki group doesn't get their hands upon Naruko-chan. God knows what they actually want right now, but we can't let them get what they wish for."
Ryouta nods a single time.
Hearing that, he knew how important this really was, and how they'd have to go about doing this.
"Mikoto-san, I'll fight Itachi, if you want."
Ryouta offered.
Mikoto blinked in surprise.
"Ryou-kun..."
Ryouta inhaled deeply, before looking her directly in the eyes, and expressing what was inside of himself.
"I really don't mind fighting him for you, Mikoto-san. I also care about you and your feelings. I also have my eyes, I will fight him with these eyes, and stop him if that's what you want. I don't want you to have to fight your own child, it's too cruel."
Mikoto couldn't help but smile at what Ryouta was saying.
It was truly kind to hear that from Ryouta.
"Ryou-kun, you are a sweet, and kind young man. I really do think that my daughter has found someone that she really can rely on, and love." She leans towards him, and quietly kisses him on the cheek, his face beginning to tinge red. "So don't worry about me, I have prepared for this eventuality."
Mikoto's words made Ryouta give a light hearted smile.
Even though this was tense, he wanted to give Mikoto as much ease as he possibly could right now.
"Also Mikoto-san, I know that Satsuki-chan wasn't told because of what Hokage-sama has said, and I have honoured that. But, I do believe that we should have said something to her...I know that she'll be angry, but I know with us, she'll be okay and be able to stay focused. We have all been each others rocks through all of this, since the time Shi-chan died, and then the massacre, without Satsuki-chan and you...it really would have been so much more difficult."
Mikoto appreciated his words, and agreed with what he said, especially about being each others rocks, she knew that Satsuki truly had benefited from having her, and Ryouta beside her, without them, she didn't know how her daughter would be right now.
"I know, I also have had similar thoughts. In the end, all I want to do is protect her, and right now, she isn't on the level with Itachi. If she and he met now, then if he so desired...she could be killed. Of course I...I don't want that. But I do understand what you're saying about keeping the truth from her, it is something that I'd rather not do."
Ryouta could see the conflict within Mikoto, it was the same for him.
How her desire to keep her daughter safe conflicts with her feelings of expressing what she felt when it came to Satsuki.
As they talked, Karin and Guy finally came around the same time. Guy took Karin and placed her on his back, with her eyes becoming annoyed.
"W-What are you doing?!"
"Putting you on my back little one!"
He flashed what he'd describe as a cool guy smile.
But that wasn't what Karin wished to do.
"And I have to be on your back like this?"
"Yes! Why, who else would you want to ride on?"
Karin's cheeks burned bright red as a number of scenarios ran through her mind.
All, being of a kind that made Karin blush brightly, and how she felt inside about what Guy had said, Ryouta filled her mind, one even going wild and giving Karin a metal image of a cat eared Ryouta, purring towards her.
That image, once there, didn't leave her mind.
More and more, it made her want that to be real.
She wanted that image to come to life, her eyes filled with excitement and happiness at the same time.
"Cat Ryou-kun is best!"
Ryouta blinked, Mikoto cocked her head to the right.
"Eeh, what?"
Ryouta asked, Karin placed her hands over her mouth, shivering several times.
"N-Nothing! Don't worry, it's nothing! I'll happily be with Guy-sensei!"
Mikoto watched Karin carefully.
Karin sweated under the gaze of Mikoto.
She didn't even make a move.
Mikoto shook her head, and gained a serious face.
"Karin-san, you'll sense out the snake that Ryou-kun left on Itachi. When the actual fight begins, depending on the situation, there's several scenarios that I'll go over with you all as we make our way there. When the fighting begins, Karin-san I'll have you keep your distance, this is a battle that you wont be able to get close in, I'm afraid. So please use your abilities to support in anyway that you can, further orders shall be given when the situation calls for it."
"Yes, I understand."
Karin knew she wasn't Jonin level, so she knew that as soon as a fight broke out, her job was to support in any situation that she could, but also keep out of the range of the enemies, in case they tried to use her as a hostage or something akin to that.
Mikoto didn't say anything for a few moments, as her eyes went around to the different people around.
She then landed on Ryouta, who gave her a nod, so she did the same thing.
"Our priority is to make sure that they don't succeed in their task. So everyone lets get going immediately. This is a chance that we've got to take by both hands, even if we don't succeed here, we learn everything we can. Our aim is to win, but if we don't, we have to survive and gather as much information as possible, understood?"
[Yes!]
They all replied strongly, and took off together.
Ryouta's determination ran through him.
Whatever was to come next, they were ready.
As that went on, Anko and Haku, who had been left behind due to the safety of the village also being needed, sat together. Anko's eyes darted left and right, while Haku kept her hands together, worry etched onto her face.
"It sucks, doesn't it?"
Anko began, Haku turns her eyes towards Anko.
"You mean, we weren't assigned to the mission?"
"Yeah, I get that in case this Akatsuki decide to launch an attack could happen, we don't know what they might do, and we have Ninja still that have been damaged. Kakashi is out of commission and the war with Orochimaru did hinder us a good deal, so we can't afford to have every Ninja leave right now. I still wish that I could have gone."
Haku also thought the same thing.
But if she was needed in the village, then that was what she was going to do.
Even if she felt like she wished to go as well and make sure that Ryouta would be safe and sound.
"Anko-sensei, do you think Ryou-kun is going to be okay?"
"Hmmm, I think he will be fine."
Anko honestly felt like that.
Haku on the other hand hoped that would be the case, but she did worry for him and what his mental state was right now.
"Even though it is Izumi-san. She and he were very close, to the point that Ryou-kun considered her his sister, and vice versa until that night happened of course. I can't even imagine what Satsuki-san is going to feel when she finds out about all this, it is spreading through the village like wildfire, she'll find out sooner or later."
"Hopefully by that time, Itachi and the others have either been stopped or have been driven off. But yeah, I can see that she's gonna be quite angry about Itachi, she's said at different points that she hates him. And now targeting Ryouta as well, only God knows what she is thinking and feeling right now."
Anko murmured out, Haku kept her eyes on the ground.
"Sensei, this situation really is difficult, isn't it?"
"You can say that again. Geez, and we can't do much...but we can at least make sure the village is safe. If some of these weirdos decide to come back, then we can use our skills and make sure that they're finished off!"
"Skills...yes, I've also come to realize that I have to become stronger. My fight with Naruko-san gave me quite the perspective about it, and how I can improve in the future. I might have managed to win the fight, but she was very strong, and opened my eyes to many different ways to fight and how I'll have to be able to counter them in the future as well."
Anko could understand that.
She also thought back onto her fight with Ameyuri, and how she fought.
She also thought about how she's seen her Genin improve over the time they've been together. Ryouta and Haku being quite prominent, but also seeing Karin steadily improve at the same time as well.
"Haku, I'm your Sensei, and I also have things to learn, you know?"
"Anko-sensei, how come you're saying..."
"I can't be outdone by my own team, can I? In this time, my Uchiha has already become a Jonin, and I'm sure you'll have no problem in gaining a rank during all of this, so I wouldn't be shocked if you became a Chunin at least. And then there's Karin, how hard and determined she is. It makes me understand that I also have to become stronger, and show my stuff at the same time."
Anko's words made Haku adopt a small smile on her face.
"Yes, you're right Sensei. I am also going to increase my combat abilities, and become even stronger."
Anko adopted a strong smile.
Though deep inside, the pair wondered how the mission was going, and if those they cared for were quite alright in the end.
Whatever the outcome was going to be.
Back with Mikoto, Ryouta and the others, the four of them travelled at a relatively good speed. They didn't want to waste too much chakra, yet they also wished to get back the time they lost when the Akatsuki made their retreat.
While making their way, Karin was the first to pick up something.
"Eeeh, remember how this was a secret from Satsuki?"
"Yes."
Mikoto answered, and was curious about at the same time.
Karin gave an awkward laugh, and looked left to right several times.
"Well, you see, the thing is...she's following us, and she seems to be reducing distance between us as well. She feels like she's really putting her all into coming to us."
"She's found out, she's coming here."
Mikoto murmurs, Ryouta nods.
"Yes, she probably has. But we can't stop now."
"She can't come with us, can she? I mean, she might..."
Karin began, with Guy staying oddly quiet through this exchange, believing that he didn't have much if anything to say right now.
Mikoto was quiet as well, and didn't know what to say.
Ryouta himself also kept quiet, noticing that Mikoto was slowing down, probably so Satsuki could more easily catch up with them, Ryouta and the others matched her speed, as they could sense that Itachi and the others were also not going very fast or rather, seemed to be remaining in a single area.
When Satsuki did catch up, her eyes were a mixture of anger, and pain at the same time, something Ryouta understood immediately.
"Satsuki, coming out here is..."
"Itachi...you're going after Itachi, aren't you?"
Mikoto kept her head down, Guy looked towards the right, Karin didn't even know what to say.
So Ryouta spoke up.
"Yes, that's right Satsuki-chan."
Satsuki took a glance at Ryouta.
Seeing his eyes on her, she was relieved that he was okay.
Her eyes then went to her Mother.
"Mom, I-"
"I want you to go home."
When she heard that, Satsuki became devastated.
"Mom, this is Itachi-"
"I know how emotional you are when it comes to Itachi. This fight, emotions have to be set to the side. This is...this is a mission that I don't want you to have to go through Satsuki. I want to carry this burden for you."
Satsuki bit her lower lip in slight frustration and in understanding at the same time.
"This is a burden that's been placed on me by him, he killed our clan! We have to...I can't stand by when he's so close now. I became strong, because I wanted to take him down. For what he did to the clan, Father, for what he tried to do with you and Ryou."
Ryouta didn't say anything for the time being, while Mikoto gained an understanding face.
"I know that's what you want, I also feel similar thoughts. But right now, Satsuki. We're in a hurry, Itachi is...didn't you hear what happened with Kakashi? He nearly got defeated, and only didn't because Ryou-kun came to help him out. Even together, Itachi is a foe that is very powerful, and that was with Ryou-kun using those eyes of his. Right now, we're on a mission, and I really do understand your emotions, I also feel very deeply about this, but I want to keep you safe Satsuki. So please go home, and leave this to us."
Satsuki clutched her hands tightly.
Hearing that, she could still see that there was a gap between her, and Itachi.
She knew that with his eyes, that Ryouta managed to push Orochimaru, and if Itachi was able to even withstand his eyes, then it was something that she knew wasn't a joke, that Itachi still was very strong.
Ryouta exhaled, seeing Satsuki's eyes lowering more and more.
Seeing how far they were from the village, and how close they were to Itachi, they couldn't turn around now, or they could lose the chance to get to Itachi, and potentially protect Naruko from Itachi and the others.
He also understood if this was him in her place, being told to go home wouldn't be so easy.
If this was Sugaru...even this being Izumi, brought up difficult emotions, Izumi wasn't someone Ryouta naturally considered an enemy but he did care for her deeply, and fighting her was something that would prove to be difficult.
"Mikoto-san, we don't have a lot of time."
Ryouta spoke up, Mikoto's eyes turning towards the young man, seeing the expression he had on, and believed she knew what he was saying without speaking, her face becoming astonished.
"Ryou-kun, that's..."
"I know, what you're feeling. I know you want to protect her, and so do I, but we don't have the time to go back and escort Satsuki-chan back. Also...I'll protect her, with my life."
When she heard that, Mikoto couldn't help but feel like she really could rely on Ryouta.
Even though he was young, he had a good head on his shoulders.
She could also see that Ryouta was someone that would place Satsuki's safety above his own.
Someone that would protect her with his life.
It wasn't simply him just saying it, he held conviction within him to protect Satsuki.
"...You really are saying that, it is going to be very dangerous. Itachi is very dangerous."
"So are we, Mikoto-san." Mikoto felt a pulse through her heart, while Satsuki looked on. "Itachi isn't the only Uchiha, and we're three Uchiha, we survived that night and we will do our best now. You have my word, Mikoto-san. I will protect Satsuki-chan, and keep her safe. I know this situation is rather dangerous...but, I understand how she feels right now, it's what I'm feeling and what you're feeling as well."
Mikoto didn't want Satsuki to be endangered.
She looked between her daughter, and Ryouta.
She cupped a hand over her mouth, seeing as time was getting on, and relented.
"Stay beside Ryou-kun, Satsuki. Whatever happens, you do as I say, is that understood?"
"Right, I understand."
Satsuki flashed to beside Ryouta, and whispers "Thanks." Ryouta adopts a small smile.
Mikoto exhales, looking between those around.
"We lost a little bit of time with that, so lets kick it up a notch. But, remember to conserve as much chakra as possible, we're going to need it."
[Yes!]
So like that, the group that were only four, now became five, shot off towards Itachi and the others, wondering what was truly going to be happening after this event was done.
Arriving in Shukuba town, Naruko was astonished by everything that was around, and couldn't help the glee that came out of her mouth seeing all of the sights around her.
The bright lights, the way that the people around seemingly didn't even acknowledge her, which she found nice that she didn't get the usual stares from those within the village that she hardly knew.
"This is amazing Pervy Sage! Like seriously, we're going to be staying here?!"
"That's right kid, this is Shukuba town, we'll start our search for Tsunade here. So, lets go towards the gambling areas, and see if she's there."
"She gambles?"
"Haha, she might like it yeah~"
Naruko wondered more about Tsunade, and what she truly was like.
If she was someone that could become the first female Hokage, that was a question that Naruko wished to know about.
As she was, Jiraiya himself looked at the beautiful women that were around. Seeing the life around him, the old man was beginning to succumb to his desires of wishing to be with the women around and how fun it would be to go and see more.
His eyes instantly went to a few that waved towards him, as he gained a red face looking at them.
Naruko released a breath at the sight.
"Great, so you're gonna be pervy even now?"
She really didn't care for Jiraiya's little habits like this, she wasn't interested at all.
"Don't say that brat!" As he said it, a girl with long hair and an alluring smile drew Jiraiya's attention. "Aah, say kid, why don't you go and get us an inn or hotel or something, and I'll meet you there..."
While speaking, the young woman enticed Jiraiya over with a wave and a giggle at the same time.
Jiraiya had lusting eyes for the woman, who in turn waved her hand side to side towards him.
That only enticed him even more than ever before.
"Seriously?!"
Naruko yelled out, with Jiraiya laughing as he walked forward.
"Of course, it's getting late, you really should be getting to bed soon!"
He took Naruko's arm, and rushed towards a close hotel for them to stay inside.
Getting the room, they went up, and got inside of it.
Jiraiya quickly said "I'll be back, stay in here!" and rushed out before Naruko could even say anything.
"I should have stayed with Ryou, at least he would train with me."
Naruko looked at the room, it wasn't so bad.
It was a decently made room, with two beds. She got onto the bed, and sat comfortably on it, before she began moving her arms up and down, doing some light training herself.
She figured if Jiraiya was going to be busy, then she could at least get some training in before turning in for the night.
However, while training by herself, a small time later, she heard there was a knock at the door.
She wondered if it was Jiraiya and he had lost his keys or something.
"Seriously Pervy Sage, you're terrible!"
She yelled, as she walked forward.
Getting to the door, she opened it.
When she did, she was met with four people.
Two she recognized, and two she didn't.
"I-Itachi...and Izumi Uchiha..."
Izumi wished she could have greeted Naruko kindly but right now she couldn't do that, so she opted to not look at her, while Itachi stared at Naruko, doing his best to remain as stoic as possible as Naruko began moving back.
"It seems you recognize me."
Itachi's cold voice wasn't like how she remembered.
He wasn't always the most emotive kind of guy.
But now, it was like he was an entirely different person.
So cold, detached.
Someone that made her feel as if she was frozen on the inside.
"I...remember you...you're Satsuki's...older brother..."
"That's correct. Now Naruko, it's time that you come with us."
Naruko felt sick to her stomach.
She was aware that Itachi had killed his clan save from those that had been saved.
Though she didn't know what he wanted, she knew this was a very dangerous situation.
One that she couldn't possibly get out of on her own.
Fortunatrely, help was on the way...
End chapter!
So this chapter focused on Ryouta and the others preparing to go after Itachi and the others. With Kakashi and some others out of action, the team going consists of Mikoto, Ryouta, Guy, Karin and at the end, Satsuki after she found out about Itachi and the likes being around. Though it took some convincing, Satsuki was allowed to go, so we'll see how that goes!
Naruko also had some moments with Jiraiya, but then right at the end, Itachi and the others have come! We'll see what happens between them next time!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Gaara (fem), Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei, Anko, Samui, Hanabi, Mabui, Temari, Pakura,