A/N - I know, holy crap, it's an update for this fic after about a year and a half of no activity for it! You have noooooooo idea how many people have been practically begging me to continue with this fic. I was stuck for the longest damn time with no idea what to do with this chapter. I also got caught up writing all kinds of other fics for a good while. Then...I had to take a break.
As mentioned in the update for To Love Oneself, I've been having a difficult time lately. My neighbor is suffering from Frontal Lobe Dementia and has pretty much gone insane. It's kinda hard to explain, but just know that she's in the hospital and cannot go home. She stopped taking care of herself, she was imagining things, she was sleeping in the bathtub, buried stuff in the backyard, all kinds of crazy things. So while she's in the hospital and everything is trying to get worked out, I've had to go next door to her house and take care of her pets numerous times a day. On top of that, I've developed tendonitis in my right thumb and wrist. It makes it REALLY hard to type for long periods at a time because the pain gets unbearable.
Anyways, I need to take a break for a little while to rest my hand. I can't keep typing like this when it's hurting this bad. .
Enjoy the chapter!
Chapter 4 – Revealing a Traitor
Naruto frowned as he watched the daimyo go about his routine. He was a very busy man that obviously did the absolute best he could for his people and his land as a whole. From what he had seen so far, he was honestly kind of amazed that the man remained sane through it all. He also had some amazing protection in the Twelve Guardian Ninja. Though, now that he thought on it, it was rather strange. He had only seen a few of them, so where were all the others?
Shaking that thought off, he refocused his attention on the daimyo and his current company. He seemed to be in a meeting of sorts with his advisors. It was a basic enough affair and he was growing rather bored with all the discussion about politics and the general overview of the finances for the city and the village of Konohagakure. He was sort of tuning in and out of the conversation. Naruto was more focused on trying to figure out if he was a threat to Tora in any way. So far, he hadn't had any interaction with the little hellion and there was no mention of the cat either. However…
As the daimyo and his advisors discussed whatever it was they were chatting about, Naruto suddenly sensed a great deal of negative emotions practically rolling off of one of the daimyo's advisors. And, if he didn't imagine it, Naruto was sure he saw the advisors face morph into a scowl for the tiniest of seconds. If he had blinked, he was sure he'd have missed it. As it was, he was wondering if he just imagined it, but he quickly shook that thought off.
Eyes narrowing in suspicion, he watched the advisor carefully, trying to get a good read on the man. The daimyo didn't seem to notice anything was off about the man, but it was obvious to Naruto that this guy was bad news. Something just didn't sit right with him, so he decided that it would be a good idea to keep an eye on this particular advisor.
After some time, he slipped away unnoticed and pressed a finger to his headset. "Sensei, I don't know if this has anything to do with the mission or not, but one of the daimyo's advisors is practically radiating ill intent. It's got me worried for the daimyo's safety, and for that of his wife. Something just doesn't feel right here…"
Anko's voice could be heard over the radio. "That's not good. Change of plans then. Naruto, I want you to shadow that man and see what he's really up to. Contact us when you have some more information. Kale, how are things on your end?"
Kale's voice could be heard saying, "Madam Shijimi seems to be going through her daily routine so far. She's talked to herself a bit about how worried she is for Tora, but she really hasn't been up to much. So far, it seems perfectly normal."
Anko could be heard humming in thought for a time. "All right. Kale, I want you to continue shadowing Madam Shijimi. I want to know more about her interactions with the people. I have my suspicions, but I want concrete evidence before I rush to any judgments. We'll continue following Tora. That damn cat's smart. She's already sensed us a few times, but she has yet to run into any form of trouble. Whatever's troubling her, I want to get to the bottom of it. Keep us posted Naruto, Kale."
Despite the fact that his teammates couldn't see him, Naruto nodded in response. Slipping into the shadows once again, he returned to the meeting room and flinched when one of the daimyo's unseen bodyguards nearly spotted him. Anko-sensei wasn't kidding about their abilities. Then again, they'd better be damn good if they want to keep not only their jobs, but to keep the daimyo himself safe as well.
Turning his gaze onto the advisor, Naruto made sure to watch his body language and his hands especially. This man obviously didn't care for the daimyo. No, it was worse than that. He LOATHED the man. Naruto watched as his fists clenched and unclenched in the span of a few seconds. Naruto scowled as he watched this and chanced a glance at the daimyo's guards. If they haven't noticed this man's strange behavior by now, then he might need to look into hiring better protection.
A short while later, the meeting came to an end and Naruto watched as the daimyo and his guards vacated the room. Thinking on it for a moment, Naruto created a shadow clone and sent it to watch the daimyo, just to be on the safe side. Returning his gaze to the advisors, he scanned the small group of men and women carefully. Hmm, the others seem normal enough. Grumbling about their jobs, insulting the daimyo, basic stuff. But that one? That one's different…
When the advisor he was ordered to keep an eye on began to rise, Naruto watched him carefully, following after him as he left the room. As he walked through the hallways, Naruto could hear him grumbling to himself about something. Slipping closer while remaining unseen, Naruto listened to what the man was saying.
"Damn that man. He's fucking insufferable! And that wife of his is no better. Always doting on that damn cat. I swear, that fucking cat is treated better than any of their subjects. If only…" the man ranted on, only to pause and glance around in a panic. "W-Who's there?!"
Naruto frowned as he wondered if he had been found out. His fears were quickly assuaged though as he saw two masked shinobi appear in front of the man. Remaining hidden, the black-haired teen listened as they began to talk.
"Oh, it's just you two. Stop sneaking around like that all the time. You'll end up giving me a heart attack at this rate! I'm not a young person anymore, after all." The advisor said. "Whatever. It doesn't matter. Have you killed that damn cat yet?"
One of the masked ninja, obviously a male, said, "Not yet. That cat's smarter than we gave it credit for. It slipped away to Konohagakure before we could kill it. You never did tell us though, why do you want the cat dead so badly?"
The advisor scowled fiercely, but didn't say anything at first. Instead, he motioned towards a nearby door. "Not out here. It's too open and those damn Konoha shinobi could be anywhere. We'll talk in there."
Naruto had to rein in his anger lest he be discovered somehow. So, these guys were hired to kill Tora, huh? I need to hear more. Waiting just a moment, he slipped inside the room unseen and unheard and hid in the shadows of the room. All right you bastards; let's hear what you've got to say.
Turning to face his hired help, the advisor decided to explain. "You asked why I want the cat dead. Tora's been foiling every attempt I've made to kill the daimyo and his wife. You'd think with how much she hurt that dumb cat that it would be happy to let that fat bitch die. I've tried numerous times to poison Shijimi to get her out of the picture, but that cat always found a way to save her. Nothing has ever worked and it's all that damn cat's fault! They may not realize it, but their stupid cat has been saving their lives for two years now. Now do you understand why I hired you to kill that goddamn cat? It's in the way of my mission!"
The black-haired Saiyan scowled as he heard this. I think I've got more than enough information now to settle this. Still, what's this about a mission?
One of the masked shinobi had the same question in mind, apparently, because she asked, "You've never mentioned a 'mission' before. Did somebody send you to assassinate the Fire Daimyo and his wife?"
The advisor scowled and said, "I didn't hire you two just so you could ask questions of me. But, if it'll help my cause any, then yes, I was sent here to get close to the daimyo so I could act as my country's spy. I was then given orders to assassinate the daimyo and his family, that stupid little cat included. I'm only following the Lightning Daimyo's orders here. I just hate having to play nice with that idiotic Fire Daimyo and his…ugh. Madam Shijimi is just…hideous. She's annoying and obnoxious too. Always doting on that fucking cat. How that thing didn't die before that Konoha Genin showed her how to care for it properly is beyond me. I wish it had, because then my mission wouldn't have turned into such a shit storm."
The male masked ninja frowned behind his mask and said, "We understand now. I just hope your daimyo knows what he's doing here, because this whole situation could go VERY wrongly for him."
"We'll take care of the cat. You just prepare yourself to take the daimyo's life. Good luck." The female ninja said before she and her partner disappeared from the room.
"Damn shinobi. They'd better just do their damn jobs and leave me the fuck alone afterwards." The advisor muttered to himself before he vacated the room as well.
Left on his own at this point, Naruto tapped his headset and spoke to his teammates again. "If you can hear me, I've got new information that proves we're dealing with someone dangerous. Tora's in grave danger, as are the Fire Daimyo and his family. I'd ask if we could meet up, but two unidentified shinobi, a masked man and woman, are hunting Tora. On top of that, the man I told you about before? He's out to kill the Fire Daimyo and his family. Tora's been foiling all of his attempts to kill them, however, and that's why he's hired those two to kill Tora. I have more information on the subject, but I think the mission is now time sensitive. We have to deal with those two shinobi to save Tora, and we need to take out the Fire Daimyo's advisor. What are your orders, Anko-sensei?"
"Naruto-kun, I want you to capture the spy. If he resists, break him. We need him alive so we can extract the necessary information from him. Kale-chan, inform your target that she and her husband are in danger. Hide them somewhere safe. Caulifla, Yakumo, and I will deal with the shinobi after Tora. Good luck and be careful everyone." Anko said over the radio.
"Roger that." Naruto said before he cut the transmission and set off in search of his target once again. If those shinobi are from Kumo, this could get really bad. It would make things so much easier if they were simply missing nin, but I have a bad feeling about this…
Anko
Anko scowled as she watched Tora round another corner. The cat definitely knew where she was going, and she knew that she had followers as well. In other words, Tora was an insanely intelligent and aware cat. Quickly hurrying after the cat, she watched as it came to a stop after some time and began to growl and hiss at seemingly nothing. "Looks like they're here." Anko said to herself and her two team members.
Caulifla and Yakumo watched as the masked shinobi appeared before them with weapons drawn. The lone Saiyan of the group grinned maliciously as she punched the palm of her hand. "Oh, this is gonna be fun."
Anko raised a hand, signaling her to stand down for the time being. Taking a few steps towards the masked enemies, she watched as Tora hurried behind Yakumo, its fur standing on end. Keeping an eye on their potential enemies, the Snake Mistress asked, "Why would you take on a mission such as this? You've been hired to kill an animal. Doesn't that make you feel sick inside? Shinobi such as yourselves should know better than to accept a mission such as this! It's like murdering a child; it shouldn't be done! Don't you have any shame?"
The male shinobi shook his head and said, "We do what we are ordered. It is as simple as that. If that means we have to kill an animal simply for existing, then so be it. Whether we like it or not has no meaning."
Yakumo frowned deeply as she looked at him. However, something about his female partner caught her attention. "Sure, you may feel that way…but what about her?" she asked, narrowing her eyes on the masked female.
The masked woman flinched and looked warily at her companion for a few moments. Casting her gaze downward, she reached up and removed her mask. "I don't like this. It's just a cat. Assassinating the Fire Daimyo is one thing, I'd be able to do that. But…not this cat. I can't do it."
The masked man scowled behind his mask. "Yugito, you do realize what will happen to you if you fail to follow through with Raikage-sama's orders? If you do this, you will be considered an enemy. I don't care if you hate the very idea of killing this cat. If need be, I'll do it myself. You just focus on killing those three. We can't have any witnesses to what we're about to do. Or rather, what I'm about to do."
The now-named Yugito looked at her partner with such a fierce scowl on her face that it was a wonder why she didn't attack this man. "I won't help you kill a cute little cat! And I refuse to help you and Raikage-sama kill the Fire Daimyo! If that means I'll be labeled as a traitor, then fine."
"I'm sorry it's come to this, then." The masked man said as he went to form a hand seal. However, before he could do anything, he felt something puncture his arm. Glancing down, he saw a snake, fangs buried in his skin. "Fuck…" he muttered before suddenly collapsing to the ground.
Anko stepped up to the downed man before withdrawing a kunai from within her holster. Without a word, she thrust her kunai into the man's throat, watching as he suffocated on his own blood. Once he had perished, she looked into Yugito's eyes and said, "Thank you. However…"
Yugito, a fair-skinned woman with long, blonde hair, black eyes, and a light shading of red lipstick, nodded slowly. "I know. I'm still technically an enemy and there are procedures you're supposed to follow. I won't resist."
Caulifla stepped up to them and looked down at the deceased ninja. "Well, that's a bit disappointing. I was looking forward to a good fight."
Yakumo giggled a bit and said, "You'll soon realize that not every mission requires combat expertise. Some require patience, quick thinking, espionage, etc."
"Well that's boring." The busty Saiyan responded. "Oh well. Hey, Anko-sensei? I love the way you work. This guy never stood a chance."
The Snake Mistress nodded before she turned to look at Tora. "Yugito, I'm not going to tie you up. I'm trusting you no to pull anything. However, you're returning to Konoha with us so we can deal with this situation the proper way. At the moment, we have more pressing concerns. Namely that rotten scumbag plotting the daimyo's demise. Yakumo, carry Tora. We're going to pay a visit to Naruto-kun and his target."
Yakumo nodded and gently scooped Tora into her arms. Scratching her under the chin for a moment, listening as the cat began to purr, the genjutsu specialist giggled and rubbed her nose against Tora's. "You are so cute, Tora. Come on, let's return you to your mommy and daddy."
Anko smiled at the scene before she began walking off towards the palace. Hokage-sama is going to be pissed, I can see it now.
Naruto
"You can't do this to me! Don't you know who I am, you rotten fleabag?!" the traitor exclaimed, absolutely furious with Naruto for putting him in this situation. What had the Saiyan done, exactly? He had broken the man's legs and arms, leaving the false advisor without the ability to stand, crawl away, or pretty much resist at all.
"Fleabag? Really?" Naruto asked, sighing afterwards. "Whatever. I'm sure once Daimyo-sama and his family learn what you had planned for them and their cat, that you'll wish I had killed you. You do know that you can make this easier on yourself, right? All you have to do is tell me the truth about why the lightning daimyo sent you. Why would he want the fire daimyo dead? Why send you?"
"I'm not telling you a damn thing!" the man exclaimed angrily. "Nothing you do can make me talk."
"Then it's a good thing it isn't him that will be doing the interrogating." Anko said as she walked up to the group with her team and Yugito in tow. "If you know anything about Konohagakure's shinobi corps., then you have likely heard of me. If you're smart, you'll talk now. If not, wellllll…" tapping a finger against her chin, Anko grinned sadistically at him and said, "I'm sure you'll just love to find out what I can do to you."
The man simply scoffed and said, "Well sorry, but I don't got a clue who you are. Obviously you're not special enough to mean anything to me or Daimyo-sama."
Anko smirked and said, "Oh, how wrong you are."
While Anko tortured the man, enjoying his screams as if they were music to her ears, the others watched as Kale walked up to the group with the fire daimyo and his companions in tow. "Just what is going on here? Why are you torturing one of my advisors?! I thought you were here to help Tora."
Naruto turned to face the daimyo and explained the situation to him peacefully. "My apologies, Daimyo-sama. This 'advisor' of yours has been plotting your assassination for quite some time now. Based on what I overheard, he's been trying to kill you and your family for a few years now. Tora was protecting you in her own way. That's why he was trying to remove Tora from the picture. I know you have no reason to believe us over the word of your 'advisor' here, but I assure you it's the truth."
Before her husband could say anything, Madam Shijimi spoke up. "No, I believe you, Naruto-kun. Thank you all for all your hard work. You've done an exceptional job."
The Fire Daimyo sighed and said, "Agreed. Tell me, who was this man working for?"
Naruto frowned and said, "I overheard him telling his hired help that he's working for the Lightning Daimyo. Anko-sensei can hopefully get more information out of him, because that's all I really know."
Yugito stepped forward and bowed to the fire daimyo. "Sir, I have news as well. I was one of those hired by this man to help him assassinate Tora. I refused to go through with it, and I helped Tora escape the first time before my partner could kill her. I believe Tora did what she did to protect you. I'm terribly sorry for all the trouble we've caused."
The fire daimyo looked hard into Yugito's eyes before his eyes went to her headband. "A Kumogakure kunoichi. Tell me, why would the Raikage agree to send you and your compatriot to help in the attempted murder of my family and me? Depending on your answer, I may have to take drastic action."
Yugito winced and found it impossible to look the fire daimyo directly in the eyes. "The Raikage agreed to the mission because…because he wanted to make a preemptive strike against Konoha and the Land of Fire as a whole. Assassinating you would be a huge step towards conquering Konohagakure. You were pretty much the equivalent of a stepstone on his path to glory and conquest."
The Fire Daimyo closed his eyes for a time as he mulled over the information he had just been given. The silence was making Yugito increasingly more nervous and she could feel a trickle of sweat sliding down the back of her head, then her neck, and finally down her back. When he finally spoke, the blonde woman let loose a sigh of relief. "It would seem I need to deal with them most harshly. But first, there's the matter of the Chunin Exams coming up soon in Konohagakure. Is it safe to assume he will be sending teams to Konoha for the exams?"
Yugito nodded and said, "That actually presents another problem, Daimyo-sama. The Raikage has entered an alliance with the village of Otogakure, or rather, Orochimaru and his goon squad. Sunagakure has also gotten involved. Kirigakure and Iwagakure haven't entered the alliance yet, but there's no telling if they will at some point. Orochimaru's plan is to invade Konohagakure during the final matches of the Chunin Exams. It will be an attack on three fronts, and I'm not sure if Konoha can withstand the onslaught."
Hachibei was scowling at this point. It was plain to see that he was beyond furious. "I see. You will come with me to Konoha. We need to discuss the situation with Hiruzen and decide on a course of action. I'd love nothing more than to cancel or postpone the Chunin Exams, but that would tip off our enemies that we know of their plan. No, we need to come up with a suitable strategy so we can fight back and rout the enemy armies. But first, is it safe to assume that you're willing to defect to Konohagakure in exchange for this information?"
The blonde woman nodded and said, "I cannot agree with the Raikage's plan, nor that of the lightning daimyo. I refuse to be a tool for them any longer. If Konoha will have me, then I'll gladly join Konoha's shinobi forces and fight to defend my new home."
"Good. Good. Team 11!" Seeing he had their attention, Hachibei smiled at them and said, "You have performed a remarkable service for me today. I'll ensure that the five of you are paid handsomely for what you've done. If I may ask one more favor from you, I would be most gracious."
Anko smiled at the daimyo and said, "Whatever you need, we'll perform to the best of our ability, Daimyo-sama."
"Good. I ask that you act as escorts for my wife and myself. We'll be journeying together back to Konohagakure, after all. Hiruzen and I have much to discuss and quite little time to prepare for the coming war." The daimyo said, a scowl clear as day on his face. "Rest assured, Konohagakure will have my full support. And once the Chunin Exams are completed, I plan to lead the charge against this new alliance. Starting with that treacherous snake, Orochimaru. As for Suna, I have a feeling I know why they've joined this alliance. With Hiruzen's help, I plan to deal with that particular problem within the week. Hopefully my fellow daimyo doesn't prove to be a complete imbecile."
Anko frowned at this point and asked, "Do you know something, Daimyo-sama? Why would Suna enter an alliance with Orochimaru and the Raikage, of all people?"
Hachibei looked into Anko's eyes and said, "I do. The Wind Daimyo is outsourcing missions to Konohagakure. He's depriving his own hidden village of money, missions, etc. just to hire Konoha shinobi for whatever he needs. And I think I know who's responsible for creating this particular problem. Danzo Shimura. He's very good at making enemies where once were allies. I'm quite positive he's manipulated things somehow 'for the good of Konoha'. I think it's high time he pay the price for his many crimes."
Anko scowled at this and said, "Damn that man. Why Hokage-sama hasn't just dealt with him by now is beyond me. It's plain as day that he's evil as can be. I hate to say it, but he's worse than Orochimaru. Kami that felt weird to say."
Looking at Naruto at this point, the daimyo nodded and smiled sadly at the young man. "I've heard a great deal about you, Naruto Uzumaki. I know of your burden, and I know what has transpired in Konoha since your birth. You should know that Danzo likely had something to do with releasing some very important information regarding you and what you hold. Danzo views you jinchuriki as weapons and nothing more. Not people, but combat drones that should obey his every whim. If he had his way, he would use you as a weapon of war with no regard to what might befall you. As Anko said, Danzo is pretty much the definition of pure evil. It's high time somebody did something about him. There will be no talks, no peaceful option. No, the only thing awaiting Danzo at this point is a swift death. He deserves to suffer for his crimes, but I get the feeling he's going to force our hands in some way. But enough of that. Let us feast first and then we shall set off for Konoha. You," he said, looking into Yugito's eyes, "you will ride with me. I wish to hear more of this plan straight from your lips. Is this understood?"
"Of course, Daimyo-sama." Yugito said. "If I can help in any way, I'd be more than happy to."
"Good. Now come. You've all been through enough today, so I believe a feast is in order. I'll get my cooks started on something delectable that you're sure to enjoy." Hachibei said before he began leading the way. However, he paused and glanced towards the traitorous 'advisor'. "Can someone dispose of this man? His mere presence sickens me."
Anko nodded and was about to torch the man's body, but one of the Guardian Ninja appeared and quickly disappeared with the spy's bound form. Shrugging her shoulders, she decided to just say 'fuck it' and followed after the daimyo and the others. This mission had taken quite the interesting turn, and it seemed they were on the path of war. This is going to REALLY suck.
Days later – Konohagakure
Hachibei hadn't even given the Hokage the news yet about the danger Konoha and the Land of Fire now faced. No, as soon as he entered the village, he headed straight for the council meeting chambers. Upon arrival, he took the position meant for him, should he ever visit Konoha. Upon taking his seat, he waved his right hand and watched as two of his guardians appeared before him. "Call the council together, Hiruzen included. Do not explain the situation to any of them. Simply inform them that a meeting has been called and they need to get here as soon as humanly possible. I will not accept tardiness from any of them." With nods of their heads, the two men disappeared to go and gather the council.
Once they were gone, Hachibei looked at Team 11 and smiled kindly at them. "You will remain at my side. I trust you to help me deal with any threats, especially from those damned elders."
"Hai, Daimyo-sama." Each member of Team 11 said.
Soon enough, the various members of the council walked in, the civilians noticeably complaining about being summoned when they were 'busy'. When they saw the daimyo, their tunes quickly changed and they hurriedly took their seats.
The next to enter were the elders, followed by the clan heads. Finally entered the Hokage. When he took his seat, the daimyo looked around at everyone before his eyes settled on Hiruzen. "Some things have come to my attention that you and everyone in this room need to hear. But first, allow me to extend my deepest gratitude to the members of Team 11. They have foiled an attempt on my life and the lives of my family, Tora included. On top of that, they have discovered a conspiracy against Konoha and the Land of Fire as a whole."
Looking around at the various council members, he shook his head sadly and said, "The Raikage, the Kazekage, and Orochimaru of the Sannin have entered an alliance and are plotting against Konoha. They plan to attack during the Chunin Exam finals. I sincerely believe that they plan to take your life, Hiruzen Sarutobi. I also believe they aim to kill and destroy everyone and everything they can."
At this point, Hachibei glared at the elders and asked, "Have you been assisting Danzo Shimura in any way? Because I believe his actions have turned Sunagakure against us. After all, the Wind Daimyo is giving all of his business to Konoha and completely neglecting his own hidden village. I want the truth NOW."
Homura and Koharu began to sweat nervously, both fearful of upsetting the daimyo further. Homura offered him an awkward smile and said, "I-I'm afraid we don't know what you're talking about, Daimyo-sama. Why ever would we assist Danzo in his acts of terrorism?"
Inoichi spoke up at this point and said, "If need be, Daimyo-sama, I can perform a mind dive and get the truth from them that way."
"Do it. I want to know EVERYTHING they've done. I want all their crimes laid bare before us."
Inoichi nodded before he activated his jutsu and delved into Homura's mind first. When he reentered his own body some time later, he had a deep scowl etched on his face. Without a word, he turned to Koharu and performed the mind dive on her.
After some time, Inoichi returned to his body and looked directly into the daimyo's eyes. "They've been conspiring with Danzo for years, Daimyo-sama. I can explain everything later, in a private setting. For now, just know that they've committed numerous acts of treason in their efforts to assist Danzo."
Hachibei nodded and closed his eyes for a time. "I see." He said, humming for a moment afterwards. "Kill them. I do not want them tainting this village any longer."
Before Homura and Koharu could utter a single word in protest, their heads fell from their bodies and began to roll along the floor. Their bodies dropped to the ground in a heap a moment later.
Once his guards had returned to his side, the daimyo looked coldly at the remaining people within the room. "As I was saying before this little distraction, I know why Sunagakure has gotten involved in this alliance. The Wind Daimyo has been giving all of his missions to Konohagakure for a long time now. Sunagakure is suffering because of his idiocy. I suspect Danzo played a huge part in turning the Wind Daimyo against his own people. I will talk with my fellow daimyo. Hiruzen, I expect you to get in touch with the Kazekage and try to work with him to bring peace between our nations once again. Do not fail me."
The aged Hokage nodded in understanding. "Of course, Daimyo-sama. I will do everything within my power to convince him to cease hostilities against Konoha. But…"
"Yes. That leaves Kumogakure and Otogakure as our enemies for this invasion. I want everyone to behave as normal for the time being. I'm certain Orochimaru has spies within the village, and I do not want them reporting back to that wretched snake that we have discovered their plan. I intend for us to turn their trap against them. And when we do, I expect you to end Orochimaru and the Raikage's lives. No questions asked, no attempts at mercy, no holding back. Kill everyone that stands against you, regardless of your personal feelings on the matter. This means, Hiruzen Sarutobi, that you are NOT to let Orochimaru slip away again because of your fondness for him. You may care about him as your old student, but I will NOT tolerate you being merciful towards him again! You let him escape last time and look at what's happened because of it!" Hachibei exclaimed, looking furious with the Hokage.
Hiruzen flinched, but soon nodded his head in understanding. "Of course, Daimyo-sama. I won't let you down. I'll try to recall Jiraiya and Tsunade to the village to assist us, but…"
The fire daimyo narrowed his eyes and said, "As of this moment, their Sannin privileges are revoked. No longer will I tolerate them giving into their vices. If they refuse to return for any reason, they are to be labeled as missing nin and hunted as such. So if I were you, I'd stress the importance of their return to the village. If Jiraiya complains about the 'lack of inspiration' or some such nonsense, inform him that I'll ban his books throughout the Land of Fire. Hell, if even that doesn't get through to him, then feel free to tell him that I'll order his balls chopped off and his ding-dong rendered useless to him. Do you understand me, Hiruzen Sarutobi?!"
The old Hokage nodded and said, "Consider it done, Daimyo-sama. What about Tsunade…?"
"I'll personally have her banned from every casino in the Land of Fire. I'll also have fliers put up in every tavern, inn, bar, whatever, that forbids her from being served any alcoholic beverages. No longer will I tolerate her wallowing in her own self-misery. From now on she works as a loyal, strong Konoha kunoichi, or she pays the price for her behavior. And if even that doesn't do the trick, I'll send my men after her with instructions to drag her kicking and screaming into my palace. She can either give in to my demands…or she can suffer. It doesn't matter to me either way."
"I…I see. Thank you, Daimyo-sama. I'll ensure both of my students get the message and understand the importance of your request." Hiruzen said, only to flinch at the harsh look the fire daimyo had struck him with.
"This isn't a 'request', Hiruzen. This is an order. This is a demand. You've let all of your students get away with far, FAR too much. So I'm taking action where you have not. I have no problem ordering the execution of your students, Hiruzen. So either do as I say, or I take matters into my own hands. Is that understood?"
Hiruzen nodded quickly, fearful of the Fire Daimyo's wrath. "U-Understood Daimyo-sama! I'll get right on that. But…what do we do about the attempt on your life? Has that already been resolved?"
Hachibei hummed in thought for a moment before saying, "The Raikage and my fellow daimyo in the Land of Lightning are likely to realize soon enough that their attempt on my life has been foiled. Do I expect them to try again? Not anytime soon. I believe that, with the invasion they have planned and the Chunin Exams being right around the corner will keep them quite busy. Far too busy to make another attempt on my life. And they won't be given a chance afterwards to come after me because, at that point, we are taking the fight to them. We'll exterminate them like the vermin they are. I refuse to let their actions go unpunished."
"Not to question your authority in this matter, Daimyo-sama, but I have to ask: is that wise? If we go to war with them, who's to say that other nations won't join the war on either side? I don't have anything against dealing with a threat such as this, but the risks are many." Shibi Aburame said, hoping to get through to his country's daimyo.
Hachibei frowned deeply at this and decided to take some time to really think on it. After a number of minutes, he looked into Shibi's eyes and said, "You make a valid point, Shibi. However, we have to strike back, should either party escape the invasion alive. If we simply allow their actions to go unpunished, we run the risk of other countries mistaking us for weak fools that are too afraid to take action when we should. However, I do understand your point of view and your concerns on this matter. So, if we can get at least Sunagakure to see the light, so to speak, that will ensure we have one ally that we can count on. We have allies in some of the minor lands and shinobi villages, but we need more than just that. If the Uzumaki clan were still around, their assistance alone would practically ensure our victory. I'll do what I can, but I want you to think of some way to earn us more allies."
Hiruzen frowned in thought for a time before an idea came to mind. "I've got an idea, but it's a risky one. I'll discuss it with you in private, Daimyo-sama. For now, perhaps we should discuss our strategy for our counterattack? Then again, we barely have any information on what to expect."
"I believe I have that covered. Yugito-san, if you would?" the daimyo requested, looking to his side at the blonde woman.
The black-eyed woman nodded before stepping forward for everyone to see her. "I am one of the shinobi the Raikage sent to kill Tora and potentially Daimyo-sama here. As the Nibi jinchuriki, I was meant to take part in the invasion and help destroy Konohagakure. However, my being here throws a small wrench in that plan. Still, I have some information on their plans and what they aim to do once the invasion starts. I will share with you everything that I can."
"Then please do so. Team 11, you are dismissed. Should I have need of you later, I will have Hiruzen summon you for me. Thank you again for your services to me and my family." Hachibei said with a thankful smile on his face.
Anko nodded and turned to her team of Genin. "Well, you heard the man. Let's get going already. Chop chop!" Naruto and his friends chuckled as they made their way out of the room, Anko hot on their heels.
Once they were gone, all eyes turned on Yugito as she began to explain the plan in detail, or at least what she knew of it.
One Week later
"What the hell is going on sensei?! I don't appreciate…!" an irate blonde woman could be heard shouting from within the Hokage's office. Standing beside her were a black-haired woman holding a pig, and a tall, white-haired individual.
Hiruzen slammed his students with a massive burst of killing intent, forcing them to their knees. Letting up on his killing intent, he glared at them and said, "Daimyo-sama is right, you two did need to pull your heads out of your asses and shape the hell up." The old man said, glaring at his old students. "Jiraiya, from now on you are forbidden from enjoying those damnable vices of yours. No more spying on women, no more smut novels, I will have NONE of it. You'll do your damn duty and you'll enjoy every second of it!"
Turning his gaze on his lone female student, Hiruzen scowled at her and said, "As for you, Tsunade, I am highly disappointed in you and your atrocious behavior. You lost Dan and Nawaki, and I understand that pain all too well. But you need to grow the fuck up and get over it and get over yourself! One way or another, we're going to break you of that fear of blood you've developed. You're going to start training our forces in the art of medical ninjutsu. From now on, every team will have at least one medic shinobi. And don't even think about trying to fight me on this, Tsunade. Daimyo-sama has already taken care of ripping your vices away from you. If you had simply agreed to return sooner, the two of you would have been fine. Too bad you refused to listen and had to be dragged back here."
The Sannins' eyes widened in shock and horror. "B-B-But…what about my inspiration? My novels! Without those…!" Jiraiya exclaimed, clearly unable to believe what was happening.
Hiruzen glared at the Toad Sage and said, "No. More. If you are caught peeping on women in their most vulnerable moments, you will be castrated. And no, that is not a joke. No more little Jiraiya to fondle at night. No chance of passing on your genes. Nothing. You don't get to behave like that anymore."
Tsunade, who had been wide-eyed for some time now, asked, "B-But…how can you expect me to just get over all of that so easily? I can't do it! They…they…"
Glaring at her, the aged Hokage said, "Do you really think that Dan and Nawaki would have condoned such behavior from you, Tsunade? They'd be ashamed of you and what you've become! Snap out of it, get with the program, and stop being a whiny little bitch who acts like the whole world is against her! And before you ask, you have been banned from every casino in the Land of Fire. You have been blacklisted at every liquor store, every restaurant that sells liquor, every bar, pub, etc. No longer will you be allowed to destroy yourself like the fool you've been. Shape up, behave like a proper kunoichi again, and get over yourself. I expect you to be at the hospital at 9 AM sharp. You'll be training medics and helping out in the hospital every damn day. You'd better hope you get over your fear of blood real quickly Tsunade, because you're going to be seeing a lot of it."
Tsunade could feel tears prickling at her eyes. Shaking uncontrollably, she soon took a few steps backwards. When it looked as if she was about to run away, Hiruzen narrowed his eyes and said, "If you try to run away, you'll be labeled a missing nin with a kill on sight order. So don't even think about running from your duties any longer, Tsunade. I've been far, FAR too lenient with the both of you and you've taken advantage of my kindness. It's time you two shaped up and started seriously training again. You're out of shape and out of practice. I need you both to be fully prepared because we're going to be at war after the Chunin Exams are over. I've got a LOT to go over with you two. Please don't let me down."
Jiraiya and Tsunade's eyes widened at the mention of war. After a moment, Jiraiya composed himself and asked, "War? What exactly happened, sensei? Tell us everything you know." And with that, Hiruzen began to discuss the upcoming war, the invasion, and everything else they needed to know. He dearly hoped that these two would get over themselves, shape up, and work hard to defend the village and its people. None of them wanted this war, but it was coming and there was no way to stop it. They'd all have to be prepared for this, even the fresh Genins straight out of the academy. They'd be pulling shinobi from the reserves as well, most likely. After all, wars are bloody affairs and there's no guarantee that everyone will make it out alive. All they could really do is train them all hard, focus hard on teamwork, train some medics, and hope for the best. And if it came down to it, Hiruzen knew he'd have to unleash Naruto on their enemies and hope he could harness the power of the beast inside of him.
I'm sorry Naruto, but there's a good chance you'll be used as a weapon of war, rather than an individual with feelings and a mind of your own. I just hope you can forgive me if that happens…
A/N - And that's the chapter! Hopefully you enjoyed it. I also sincerely hope that this chapter was worth the wait. I'd like to think it has turned out rather well, but we'll see what you all think.
Anyways, as I mentioned up above, my hand's in a lot of pain. Sooo, I'm going to cut this short. I plan to work on a new chapter for The Scroll's Secret next, so hopefully you're looking forward to that! For now, I need to let my hand rest.