Chapter 53 Summary: Over a year has passed since the siege of Konoha by Orochimaru failed and the Leaf village has come back stronger from it. Also, three Leaf shinobi who have carved out a heroic reputation in their travels have embarked on their ultimate and final training. Once completed, they can return to the land they call home, Konohagakure the Village Hidden in the Leaves. However, when they return they will find a much different home than the one they left over two years ago.
Naruto vs. Sasuke: The Aftermath
Chapter 53: "The Dawn of a New Council."
The history of how the governing Council of Konohagakure was created dates all the way back to when the village was first formed as part of an alliance between the Uchiha and Senju clans, descendants of the two sons of the Sage of the Six Paths, the strongest clans in the world at that time. Hashirama Senju, the leader of the Senju clan, became the First Hokage after he defeated Madara Uchiha, the leader of the Uchiha clan, when Madara challenged Hashirama's rule of the newly formed village. Soon after this, seven other powerful shinobi clans the Nara, Akimichi, Yamanaka, Hyuga, Inuzuka, Aburame, and Kurama joined the village providing it the foundation both economically and militarily for the Land of Fire, its country of origin.
The Land of Fire was the first country to create a ninja village with Konohagakure and in seeing its success other countries would soon create their own. In a short time, the Five Great Shinobi Nations would be born consisting of the Land of Fire, Land of Earth, Land of Lightning, Land of Water, and the Land of Wind, all of which would rise up to become the most powerful countries in the elemental nations with their respective shinobi villages at the forefront. And though each country was ruled a Daimyo, the leader of the hidden shinobi village known as a Kage held equal status with the leader of their respective countries. However, upon the formation of these Five Great Shinobi Nations also came the need or desire to be the most dominant country in the world, which led to the First Great Shinobi War.
Soon, the Land of Fire would become involved in wars with all the other Great Shinobi Nations and even with other smaller nations such as the Land of Rain who sought to become a recognized Great Shinobi Nation. In the turbulent years that ensued, many alliances would be made and broken between the various Five Great Shinobi Nations during the wars, but one constant always remained after each subsequent shinobi war. Konohagakure, the Village Hidden in the Leaves and the Fire Nation itself was always victorious at the end.
However, a problem soon arose with the start of the First Great Shinobi War, that being who would govern the village? For you see the original Council which governed the Leaf village was comprised solely of the nine founding shinobi clans. With a representative voting member from each of the eight clans and Hashirama Senju acting as Kage to cast two votes to either create a majority rule needed in village matters in case of a tie within the Council or if the Hokage deemed his votes necessary for the best interest of the village. Unfortunately, with the outbreak of war and all the shinobi clans needed on the battlefield, they would be unable to oversee and govern the day-to-day running of the village. It was because of this that a Civilian Council was created to work alongside the Shinobi Council. Only during wartime would this Civilian Council hold sole responsibility for running the village, while the shinobi side fought in the war to its conclusion. Thus was born the current formation of the Konoha Council now in power today.
The structure of the Civilian Council was designed along the same lines as the Shinobi Council had been configured. Eight civilian leaders representing a section of the village would be elected every three years to administer to the operation of the Leaf village, as the shinobi clans were occupied in the wars. That number of civilian councilmen would grow in the future to nine and then ten to match the number of shinobi councilmen. For the Nidaime Hokage had decreed that any shinobi who rose to take the role as a Kage, their family would be elevated to noble clan status and gain a seat on the Shinobi Council. Thus when Hiruzen Sarutobi and Minato Namikaze became the Third and Fourth Hokage respectivly, their families were granted seats on the Council. However, they would be unable to vote within the Council until the retirement or death as the Hokage. This was done to prevent any Kage from having the ability to cast three votes within the Council.
However, there still was the problem of what to do in case of a deadlock within the Civilian Council should the Hokage not be available to cast a vote and ruling. The solution the leaders of both the Shinobi and Civilian Council came up with was the appointment of two people to act as advisors to the Hokage during wartime. If the Hokage were unavailable to settle matters within the Council, then the two acting advisors could cast a joint single vote to create a simple majority rule, but only if they both agreed completely on the issue before them. If the advisors could not agree, then the subject matter in dispute within the Council would be tabled until the Hokage was available to make the final decision.
During the First Great Shinobi War this structure of the Konoha Council had worked splendidly and in a small way helped Konohagakure emerge victorious in the war by allowing Hashirama and the shinobi clans to concentrate on winning the war rather than the operations of the village. Unfortunately, the absolute power the Civilian Council was able to command over the village during wartime began to corrupt them little by little with each ensuing war. So much so that they began to quietly pass laws that would not only increase their powers during war or peacetime, but also subtly weaken the shinobi council and effectively entrench themselves as the sole power brokers within the Konoha Council causing a bitter divide to develop between the shinobi side and the civilian side of the Council.
Further weakening the shinobi side of the council by the time Tsunade had become Hokage had been the loss of the Namikaze seat as no heirs were known to exist to vote. And during her reign the removal of the Uchiha seat to cast votes anymore do to their clan being stripped of noble status. Regrettably, there was no provision that when a shinobi seat on the Council was lost that a civilian seat must also be removed to maintain an equal balance.
So at the time of Naruto's Kyuubi incident at the hospital, the civilian side of the Council had held 10-8 numerical advantage over the shinobi side. Even worse was the fact that Hiashi Hyuga through many nefarious means had finally gained total control of the Civilian Council through Civilian Councilman Danzo Shimura. So the actual numerical advantage was 11-7. This superior advantage would allow Hiashi and Danzo to get any measure or law passed that they wanted to by holding enough votes for a clear majority win on any issue brought forth in the Council. And even Tsunade's ability to cast two votes as Hokage under the auspice of the best interest of the village could not stop them, as her votes would only lift the voting tally on any measure to 11-9. That still gave a clear majority win to Hiashi, Danzo, and the Civilian Council with any issue voted upon.
It was only by a fortunate circumstance that this did not happen, as one of the civilian councilmen had chosen to break the Sandaime's decree about speaking of the Kyuubi and Naruto as one entity to a member of Naruto's generation during his Kyuubi incident trial. This allowed Tsunade to eliminate the man and reduce the Civilian Council to nine members. The death of this councilman blocked the Civilian Council, Danzo, and Hiashi the ability to automatically enact any measure or law brought forth in the Council, as they now only held a 10-9 tally giving them only a simple majority and not a clear majority win. Thus for the last two plus years Tsunade along with the loyal members of the Shinobi council had staved off the Civilian Council faction from having complete rule over the Leaf village. Such is the current structure of the Konoha Council, but that was about to change, as a new civilian councilman had been elected, which would once again give the faction supreme control of the Konoha Council and power over the Leaf village. Such was the catastrophic problem the Godaime Hokage Tsunade Senju was looking to forever change on this day.
As Tsunade patiently waited for the three main advocates of the proposal given to her the day before at the Council session, she could only shake her head in contempt at how corrupt the Konoha Council had become since the days of her grandfather and uncle. That corruption was never more evident than by their sheer audacity, avarice, and stupidity to introduce such a proposal that would only lead to the Leaf village's downfall, as Tsunade thought back to what transpired yesterday.
(Flashback)
Enraged, Tsunade stormed into her office after the Council meeting and threw down onto her desk the document she held in her hand with anger and antipathy. Tsunade knew if she allowed this proposition to be passed by the Konoha Council it would surely mark the end of the Hidden Leaf village. In fact it was beyond her belief that those decrepit fools who fostered this ridiculous plan couldn't even recognize that simple fact or they just didn't care, as she picked up the proposal given to her at today's Council meeting and read it once more in disbelief.
The governing Council of Konohagakure proposes the following measure be voted on and presented to the Fire Daimyo by the Godaime Hokage for ratification as soon as possible.
Non-Aggression Treaty
between the Land of Fire and the Land of Rice
The Government of Konohagakure and the Government of the Otogakure directed by the wish to strengthen the cause of peace between the Land of Fire and the Land of Rice and proceeding upon that basic provision that a Treaty of Neutrality to be concluded between our two countries.
Article 1
The two contracting parties undertake to refrain from any act of violence, any aggressive action, or any attack against one another, whether individually or jointly with other powers.
Article 2
In case one of the contracting parties should become the object of war-like acts on the part of a third power, the other contracting party will not support that third power in any form.
Article 3
The Governments of the two contracting parties will in future remain in contact with each other through continuous consultation in order to inform each other concerning questions affecting their mutual interests.
Article 4
Neither of the two contracting parties will participate in any grouping of powers, which is indirectly or directly aimed against the other party.
Article 5
Should disputes or conflicts arise between the contracting parties regarding questions of any kind whatsoever, the two parties would clear away these disputes or conflicts solely by means of friendly exchanges of views or if necessary by arbitration commissions.
Article 6
The present treaty is concluded for a period of ten years with the provision that unless one of the contracting parties denounces it one year before the end of this period the duration of the validity of this treaty is to be regarded as automatically prolonged for another five years.
Article 7
The present treaty is to be ratified within the shortest possible time. The treaty becomes effective immediately upon signature.
"The schemes of these old crones and the Civilian Council will have to put to an end if Konoha is to avoid abject ruin by agreeing to their plan!" Tsunade spat, as she thought to herself with disgust.
'You three fools have finally forced me to do this!'
(End of Flashback)
The buxom blonde Hokage cast a subtle glance to the darkened corner of the far side of her office and nodded her head slightly before turning around and walking out onto her balcony overlooking the village.
As Tsunade stood on the balcony of her office, she watched the villagers prepare for the Kyuubi festival to be held in a few days on October 10th. Her anger about this festival had been steadily rising all week, as she had heard nothing but the gleeful comments from people about how happy they were now that the demon was gone. This infuriated Tsunade to no end and she silently wondered how the villagers would feel if they knew the true heritage of the individual they were so joyful to be without?
'I'll know the answer to that question in a couple of days if I suspect correctly what Minato's message to the villagers will be. And I can't wait to see the looks on all of those bastards faces when they hear who Naruto really is.' Tsunade thought to herself, before a knock on her door interrupted her thoughts.
"Enter!"
Tsunade looked on as Shizune opened the door to escort in Councilman Danzo and the two Council Advisors to the position of Hokage elders Koharu and Homura into her office. Gesturing for them to take a seat, Tsunade ordered her first apprentice to bring in some tea for her and her guests. While they waited for Shizune to return, Danzo groused with annoyance at Tsunade.
"I didn't come here to drink tea and exchange pleasantries Tsunade. You said you had a matter of vital importance to discuss with us, what is it?"
"Well first off Danzo you will address me as Hokage-sama or Lady Tsunade now and in the future. For if you don't, you will no longer need a cane as a wheelchair will be your permanent form of transportation. Do I make myself clear?" Tsunade answered with a hint of malevolence ringing in her voice.
"Yes Hokage-sama, I understand." Danzo replied through clenched teeth.
It was then that Shizune returned carrying a tray with a kettle and cups on it. As all the occupants in the room watched Shizune pour cups of tea out for everyone before distributing them, Danzo eyed the blonde Hokage cautiously. Danzo had learned a long time ago never to be the first one to drink or eat from something his people had not prepared. Seeing Tsunade as well as Koharu and Homura drink without any ill effects, the old war-hawk Councilman surmised that everything was fine and took a sip of tea himself before asking.
"Why is it that you have called the three of us here Hokage-sama?"
"Yes, let us discuss that right now. Shizune if you would excuse us please and before you go activate the silencing seals around my office. The matter we are going to discuss is not for everyone's ears."
"As you wish Lady Tsunade." Shizune replied, before making a series of hand signs to activate the seals and locking the door behind her as she left.
"Now the matter I wish to discuss is with regards to the proposal you made in the Council meeting yesterday of wanting me to present to the Fire daimyo a non-aggression treaty to sign with the Rice daimyo. I have only one question for you, are you insane?" Tsunade exclaimed with disgust before taking another sip of tea.
"Oh please, enough with the histrionics and melodrama Lady Tsunade." Danzo spat with disdain before continuing on.
"A non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice is a viable and more importantly economical solution to the problem the Leaf village has been enduring over the past year."
"By problem you mean the raids Otogakure have made into the Fire Country attacking merchant caravans and small towns along our border. Raids that have left many people both shinobi and civilian alike dead. Raids carried out by that by the Leaf village traitor Sasuke Uchiha who isn't satisfied in just robbing his victims, but also raping, torturing, and killing them as viciously as he possibly can. The very same Sasuke Uchiha you three once suggested that I make my successor in waiting as the next Hokage should we ever retrieve the sadistic little psychopath!" Tsunade spat with fury and scorn at the three elder Konoha statesmen.
"Sasuke Uchiha can still be a valuable asset to the village once we recapture him. The poor boy's mind was more strained over the death of his clan than we realized. This led him to be unduly influenced by Orochimaru to follow the dark path he has taken. He should not be held accountable for his actions due to his mental incapacities. With proper treatment, I'm sure we could rehabilitate the boy into a fine upstanding Leaf village citizen and shinobi once again." Koharu declared in defense of the Uchiha youth.
Tsunade could only stare in abject awe and horror wrinkled old woman sitting across from her as her mind tried to process what she had just said. After a moment, the blonde Hokage shook her head to clear her mind upon realizing there was no way to make any coherent sense of what Koharu had conveyed and gritting her death and letting loose a massive amount of killing intent proclaimed in no uncertain terms.
"Listen up you demented ancient relic, When he was here, Sasuke Uchiha's psychotic tendencies were recognized by everyone! But you three and your pitiful minions on the Civilian Council refused to let the Sandaime hospitalize the poor boy to get the psychiatric treatment he needed that you now all of a sudden want to give him. Well it's too late for that! There will be no rehabilitation, that little bastard has not been influenced by anyone but himself and willingly chose to turn traitor and forsake the village for nothing more than power and greed. If we ever capture that deranged lunatic he will stand trial for the hundreds of people he has robbed, raped, and killed during his maniacal quest for revenge. Revenge I might add he would be better served to direct towards you three according to what I've read in the unofficial file on the Uchiha Massacre that Sarutobi Sensei's was kind enough to leave for me."
Both Koharu and Homura's faces grew ashen in color upon hearing Tsunade's final sentence, but Danzo's lone visible eye merely narrowed, as he glared at the blonde Hokage before stating in an icy tone of voice.
"I would be careful in making accusations without any proof to back them."
"Is that a threat Danzo?"
"No Hokage-sama, merely good advice. Besides, we didn't come here to discuss the wayward Uchiha. The matter at hand is the non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice. No matter what you say, it is a viable solution to end the state of hostility between the Fire and Rice countries. Ratification of this treaty will end the loss of life both civilian and shinobi we have been suffering, but more importantly it will also end the loss of income we have had to endure due to the raids Otogakure have been making into the Fire country."
"Ahh, there it is! That's all this is really about….money! You couldn't give a damn about how many lives have been lost because of those raids. Your only concern is with your bank account, you money-grubbing pieces of shit!"
"Bah enough of this Tsunade! The non-aggression pact will be passed by the Konoha Council and there's nothing you can do about it!"
"You seem quite certain of that."
"I am, but apparently I need to spell it out for you to understand that you're in no position to stop it!" Danzo replied in an irritated tone of voice, before taking another sip of his tea and setting it down so he could speak.
"With the election of civilian councilmember Osamu, a very good friend of mine last week to replace the councilman you had killed during the Kyuubi-brat's trial, we now have numerical advantage in votes once again. So, I can assure you that the entire Civilian Council comprising of myself along with councilmen Yokichi, Saburo, Osamu, Kenta, Isoroku, Hama, Chikao, Ishida, and Akito will be voting in favor of this proposal for you to present to the Fire Daimyo at the capital. That gives the Civilian side of the Council 10 votes. I also have it on good authority that the Hyuga clan will also support this measure. Also, since you enacted the decree that a State of Hostility now exists between the Fire and Rice countries at last week's Council session. Your advisors are now allowed to vote as well and they both unanimously agree that this treaty is in the best interest of Konohagakure.
Tsunade turned to glare at Koharu, and Homura who both nodded their heads with smug looks plastered upon their faces at the blonde Hokage who thought to herself in reproach.
'Damn it, I should have known something was wrong when the Civilian Council voted unanimously along with the Shinobi Council in favor of declaring that a State of Hostility now exists between the Fire and Rice countries. It took me over a year to convince that foppish fool we have of a Daimyo that it was the correct course of action to take considering their failed invasion attempt and Oto's subsequent incursions into our country. I had no idea that in doing so would allow these two corrupt fossils the ability to now cast a vote within the Council. This changes things. I guess he's going to have to be removed as well. Sorry Osamu, but you should have kept with better company.'
Tsunade then covertly pressed a button underneath her desk, before her train of thought was interrupted by the sound of Danzo's voice.
"If the math is too difficult for you to comprehend, then let me explain it to you, with the unanimous support of the Civilian Council, the Hyuga clan, and your advisors. The non-aggression treaty will pass by a 12-9 margin, a clear majority and there is nothing you can do to stop it. You've been able to hold off the measures we've wanted enacted over the past two and a half years because of your right as Hokage to cast two votes and all we could muster at best was a simple majority of 10-9, which as you know was not enough to pass any measures during peacetime. However, as I stated earlier with the election of Councilman Osamu and the ability of your advisors to now cast a vote. Those two additional votes now grant us a clear majority to pass any measures or enact any laws as we see fit. And this non-aggression treaty is the first of many changes we shall be making for the village in the future.
"Such as?" Tsunade inquired.
"Well since you brought the matter up. We are also going to make another proposal that Sasuke Uchiha be named your new successor to become Hokage. We know of your personal feelings with regards to the boy. But I must inform you between the three of us and the Civilian side of the Council, we now have the votes to push his appointment as Hokage-in-waiting through." Danzo stated all of this with a smirk, as he took another sip of his tea.
"I see then this meeting was quite fortuitous." Tsunade countered before continuing on.
"For you see I called the three of you in here because I too am planning on making some changes and introducing some proposals to the Konoha Council to vote on in a few days as well. I chose this date to coincide with the 16th anniversary of the Yondaime's sacrifice, as I'm sure you did as well Danzo-san."
"But of course Hokage-sama." Danzo snidely replied, while finishing off his tea.
"Well let me tell you the proposals I plan on introducing. First off, the Konoha Council will not enact the non-aggression proposal and I will not present it to the Fire Daimyo. To do so would not only weaken the Leaf village in the eyes of the other four great nations to see us capitulate in such a manner with the Rice country. It would also destroy any alliances we have established with other nations, as we would be unable to aid any of them per the terms of this treaty with the Land of Rice should Otogakure decide to attack them."
"Let them fend for themselves." Danzo dismissively commented, before bringing his hand up to rub his chest.
Ignoring Danzo's comment, but taking note of his movement, Tsunade smirked a bit before saying.
Secondly, I have already chosen my Hokage-in-waiting, Naruto Uzumaki and the Uchiha brat will not replace him as my chosen successor. And Koharu and Homura, when I make these proposals, I expect your full support on all of them."
"Ha, ha, ha, you can expect their support all you want Hokage-sama, but you're not going to get it or mine. And I can assure you that your proposals have no hope of passing, especially the one naming the Kyuubi-brat your successor, not if I have anything to say about it!" Danzo declared with mocking laughter.
"You won't have anything to say about it."
"Why is that Hokage-sama?"
An almost evil glint shone in Tsunade's eyes, as she coolly answered.
"Because in about a minute you will be . . . . . . dead."
"What are you talking about Tsuna . . . . . argh!" Danzo began to ask before clutching his chest in pain, and gasping for breath.
"Wha, what's happening?"
"Oh, you're having a heart attack Danzo." Tsunade calmly answered, while taking another sip of tea and watching the Councilman keel over to the floor in agony.
"But, but how? I know the tea wasn't poisoned. I, I saw you drink first." Danzo asked through clenched teeth.
"Your right Danzo, the tea wasn't poisoned, it merely acted as a catalyst for the poison." The blond Hokage smoothly replied, before setting her own tea cup down.
"You see I'm not known as the Queen of Elixirs for nothing. Several years ago I was able to develop a clear, odorless, and tasteless poisonous paste that simulates death by cardiac arrest perfectly. So it was a simple matter for me to lightly coat the bottom of your tea cup with the paste and then wait for the tea to metabolize it and carry into your system. If you notice on your tea cup Danzo, it has four stars painted on it, marking it as the cup with the highest concentration of poison in it. Whereas Koharu and Homura's cups have three stars painted on them indicating they received a lower dosage of the poison. So while you will die in about 30 seconds, they should follow you in about thirty minutes give or take a minute."
Both elder advisors looked aghast at one another and dropped their tea cups to the floor before turning their panic-stricken faces towards Tsunade who continued on.
"Now my cup has two stars painted on it indicating I received no poison. I mean we wouldn't want to have the wrong people having the heart attacks now would we, ha ha ha. Tsunade commented in wicked amusement.
"You, you bitch Tsunade! You'll never get away with this!" Danzo spat, in agonized rage.
Tsunade leaned forward in her chair and looked down at the old war-hawk Councilman writhing on the floor and stated with a wink and a smile.
"My dear Danzo, I already have."
"N-not yet you haven't! If I'm to die then I'll take you with me you slut! ROOT ATTACK!"
Instantly six Root shinobi seemed to appear in the Hokage's office out of thin air with weapons drawn and moved to attack Tsunade. Four of the Root Anbu bore identical masks upon their faces, while the other two each wore a more personalized mask indicating they were probably Danzo's elite guards. However before any of them could proceed further, dual shouts rang out.
"Senei Jashu!" (Hidden Shadow Snake Hands)
Suddenly, four large snakes shot forth from the darkened corner of Tsunade's office and they viciously bit into the four identical Root Anbu, holding and binding them in place, before a flurry of kunai rained down upon them. A moment later Anko and Ino stepped out of the shadows flanked by two Konoha Anbu, as they moved towards the two remaining Root elite.
"Torune, you deal with the Hokage, while I take care of these pests." One of the elite Root shinobi said to his partner.
"Hai, we must avenge Lord Danzo at all cost Fuu."
The Root Anbu now known as Fuu, instantly flashed through a series of hand-signs and thrust his arms forward. It took a moment, but Ino recognized those signs as they were the signature hand-seals of the Yamanaka clan's most famous jutsu technique the Shintenshin no Jutsu or Mind Body Change Technique. The young kunoichi shouted out a warning to her sensei.
"Anko-Sensei look out!"
Unfortunately Ino's desperate cry came too late as Fuu's body collapsed to the floor and his spirit shot out of his body and into Anko's taking control of her mind in the process. Instantly, Anko turned on the two Konoha Anbu with her and impaled one of them through the forehead with a kunai, while snapping the neck of the other like a twig. The snake mistress of Konoha then turned her attention towards Ino while pulling out another kunai, as Ino did the exact same thing.
As this was taking place the Root Anbu Torune unleashed at the Hokage a torrent of his poisonous bugs, a jutsu style he learned from his father Shikuro Aburame. However, before the toxic insects could infect Tsunade. The blonde Hokage was suddenly enveloped in a cocoon of Kikai insects protecting her from Torune's bugs. As the swarm of poisonous bugs collided with the swarm of Kikia insects both species began killing one another off. It was then that Shibi Aburame stepped out from a curtain concealing him behind Tsunade and he addressed the Root Anbu.
"Hello oi (nephew), it has been a long time. I had heard rumors over the years of an Aburame linked to Danzo's Root Anbu. I had hoped that the rumors were not true and it saddens me to see that they are and that it is you. Your father Shikuro would be so disappointed in you."
"Why hello ossan (uncle), it has been quite awhile. As for my dear departed father, I could care less how he would feel about me. He was a weak fool who willingly chose to relinquish his role as head patriarch of the clan and give it to you his younger brother. I will never forgive him for yielding our branch of the clan the rightful role of leadership."
"Shikuro had fought bravely in both the Second and Third Great Shinobi wars and afterwards held no desire to lead the clan anymore. He simply wanted to live the remainder of his life in peace. However, he never got the chance to live that life did he Torune."
"No ossan, he did not! I killed that old fool for what he did, just as I'm going to kill you and that blonde bitch of a Hokage you're so foolishly trying to protect!"
"You should give up now oi; you won't be killing anyone on this day."
"We will see won't we! As far as I can tell this is a battle of attrition, as your insects versus my own are canceling each other out. However, you know as well as I do that the older an Aburame gets, the smaller a colony they are able to maintain within themselves. And you're what dear ossan, twenty years older than me. So who do you think is going to run out of out insect warriors first, you or me?"
"As you said, we shall see." Shibi calmly replied, but deep down knew his long lost nephew was correct.
Meanwhile, Ino was desperately trying to fend off her mind-controlled sensei Anko Mitarashi in a kunai fight. It was widely known within the Leaf shinobi ranks that very few people were more skilled or deadly than Anko with a kunai. Thankfully, she had been a good teacher to Ino as the young kunoichi was matching her move for move and one could see sparks fly through the air as their kunai's clashed with one another. However, Anko was physically stronger than her young protégé and was beginning to wear Ino down. Then without warning Anko dropped down and delivered a sweeping reverse-kick to Ino's legs knocking the girl to the floor and leaving her wide open. Poised directly above her with a kunai held high and about to deliver the killing blow to the blonde kunoichi, Ino shouted out in despair.
"Anko-Sensei no!"
Suddenly Anko let loose a blood-curdling scream and thrust the kunai downward, while Ino could only close her eyes and wait for the killing blow. However, the blow never came, as Ino heard a grunt and felt a splash of warm liquid hit her face. Hesitantly, the young kunoichi opened her eyes and saw Anko fall to her knees still holding the kunai that she had impaled into her own stomach. Inside Anko's mind, Fuu angrily cursed to himself in amazement.
'This crazy bitch actually broke my hold on her!'
Knowing it was useless to possess Anko's mind anymore, as she was now in no condition to fight, Fuu left her mind to return to his own body. Upon the stark horror of realizing what her sensei had done and knowing what the Yamanaka Root shinobi would do. Ino grabbed a katana sword that had been dropped by one of the Konoha Anbu and sprinted towards Fuu's body with the blade held high. Just as Fuu returned to his body he looked up to regain his senses only see Ino swing the katana sword in a murderous swipe and lop his head off in one swift and merciless stroke.
"You should give up now Torune lest you suffer the same fate as your Root comrade." Shibi commented in the infamous monotone voice that the Aburame clan was known for.
"Shut up ossan! I'll take care of that little bitch as soon as I'm finished dealing with you!" Torune angrily spat in confidence.
However, the Aburame Root agent was starting to grow concerned, as the colony of insects he held within him was draining away, as he thought to himself with anxiety and confusion.
'What the hell is going on? There's no way Shibi contains a larger colony of insects then me.'
"Damn you old man! How is it you have this many Kikai insects at your age? You should have run out minutes ago!" Torune asked in frustration.
The Aburame Patriarch merely smirked before the stream of insects coming from him actually increased. It was then that Torune looked at the arm that Shibi Aburame's insects were flowing out of the sleeves from and his eyes grew wide in realization. The insects were not emerging from the Aburame clan leader, but were actually coming from someone behind him who had subtly placed their arm underneath Shibi's outstretched limb. Upon seeing the look recognition and anger that swept across his nephews face, Shibi stepped to the side to reveal his son Shino was the one providing the bugs that were protecting Tsunade and calmly stated.
"You are correct oi; my colony did run out a few minutes ago. However, I must implore you one more time to give up and face the consequences for your past crimes and sins. For if you continue you will soon drain your colony long before my sochi (son) Shino will."
Gritting his teeth in rage at being played the fool by his uncle, Torune cursed with fury.
"You go to hell old man! I'll kill all of you right now!"
The Aburame Root agent then released all of the poisonous insects he had left in one massive attempt to overwhelm the cocoon barrier of Kikai bugs still protecting the Hokage. Unfortunately for Torune, his cousin Shino matched his move and there was an explosion of insects as the two swarms met one another. After a moment, the flow of bugs coming from the wayward Aburame ceased, as Torune had exhausted his colony with his final desperate maneuver. As Torune looked up he could see that his cousin was still maintaining a protective shield around Tsunade showing he still had a viable colony of insects at his disposal whereas he had known. Glancing over to his uncle with a pleading look in his eyes, Torune saw Shibi shake his head sadly, before he uttered two words.
"Shino, unleash."
Instantly the insects protecting Tsunade disengaged their shielding and flew across the room enveloping Torune completely from head to toe. Both Shibi and Shino watched with dejection as the Kikai insects drained their long lost clan member of his remaining chakra leaving nothing more than an empty husk when they were through. Tsunade had also witnessed this and was in a state of awe at what she had seen before a cry from Ino garnered her attention.
"Lady Tsunade, it's Anko-Sensei, she's hurt very badly!"
The blonde Hokage immediately leapt up from her chair and dashed over to where the snake mistress was laying. Upon reaching the stricken Tokubetsu Jounin, Tsunade could see Ino's hands glowing green and desperately trying to stem the flow of blood coming from Anko's stomach where the Kunai was still lodged and held in a death grip by the unconscious purpled-haired kunoichi.
"What happened Ino? This wound looks self-inflicted!"
"She did it to save me." Ino replied with sorrow, as tears streamed down her face.
"I don't understand?"
"It would take too long to explain Lady Tsunade, please can you help her?"
Tsunade immediately flashed through some hand seals and deactivated the silencing seals around her office before shouting.
"SHIZUNE!"
A second later the office door flung open and Shizune stepped in followed by four Konoha Anbu. The first apprentice looked around at the carnage in the office and exclaimed.
"Kami, what happened in here Hokage-sama?"
"Never-mind about that, get over here and take Anko to the Trauma Center at the hospital at once! It looks like none of the organs were damaged so I think she'll be alright, but I still want you to handle the surgery personally Shizune and I'll be over as quickly as I can."
"Hai Lady Tsunade."
As Tsunade watched Shizune, Ino, and one of the Anbu carry Anko away, she ordered the remaining Anbu to watch Koharu and Homura who had been cowering in a corner of the office this entire time. The blonde Hokage then turned her attention to Danzo who was staring lifelessly up towards the ceiling.
Just then Ibiki Morino the lead Interrogation and Torture specialist along with two more Anbu subordinates entered the room and set two boxes down onto Tsunade's desk before announcing.
"Lady Tsunade, something terrible has happened, newly elected Councilman Osamu was found dead an hour ago. The Anbu investigation is still in its preliminary stages, but it appears that the Councilman was drunk and fell down a flight of stairs in his home and broke his neck."
"That's most distressing to hear Ibiki." Tsunade replied in mock concern.
"I'm afraid it gets worst Hokage-sama. Seeing as Councilman Osamu was a protégé and close personal friend of Councilman Danzo he was informed his death a few minutes ago, as he was about to leave the building. Apparently the strain of hearing such distressing news about his friend caused Councilman Danzo to collapse from what appears to be a heart attack. Several of our Anbu witnessed him fall down and tried to revive the man, but I'm afraid they were not successful. I'm sorry Lady Tsunade, but Councilman Danzo is also dead."
"Oh my, that is most unfortunate news Ibiki-san. The Leaf village has suffered a tragic loss today of two of our foremost political leaders. I must discuss this tragedy with my advisors Koharu and Homura and how it will affect Konoha for the future. Also, being such a prominent political figure, Councilman Danzo may have in his possession confidential information that could be damaging to the village if it fell into the wrong hands. So I think Ibiki-san, it would be wise to have the Shimura compound secured until we can ascertain what information he did hold."
"I've already taken the liberty Lady Tsunade. Fortunately, I happened to have four squads of Anbu practicing maneuvers in training field near the Councilman's home today. They should have the entire compound under lockdown very shortly and any information Councilman Danzo may have possessed will be safely secured by your Anbu." Ibiki contritely replied with a smirk.
"That's very good to hear Ibiki-san. Indeed it's most fortunate that you happened to have those Anbu squads so near the Councilman's residence to assist in this most distressing matter. Now I must speak with my advisors about this dreadful calamity that has befallen the Leaf village on this day with Councilman Danzo's untimely passing. So could you please leave us and before you go, have your men empty my trash would you."
"Hokage-sama, we would like to take my nephew's body back to the Aburame compound for a proper ceremony and burial. Although some might say he doesn't deserve it for the crimes he's committed. He was still an Aburame and I owe it to my brother to see that his only son is given our clans traditional funeral service.
"Of course you may take him Shibi; you have my condolences for your loss and my gratitude to both you and Shino for saving my life today."
"There's no need to thank us Hokage-sama, we merely performed our duties as loyal shinobi to you and the Leaf village." Shino stoically replied, before helping his father carry Torune out of the office.
"My men shall remove the rest of your trash at once Lady Tsunade." Ibiki politely stated, before signaling behind him and all the Anbu operatives in the room picked up and carried Danzo's body along with the rest of the remaining dead bodies' away right in front of the stunned and frightened Hokage advisors.
As Ibiki closed the door behind him, Tsunade returned to her seat and reactivated the silencing seals within her office. Just as the blonde Hokage was about to speak, she was interrupted by Koharu stammering.
"N-now see here Hokage-sama, how, how dare you . . . . .."
"I would shut up you senile old bitch if you want to live or there might be two more tragic losses of a prominent political leaders today!" Tsunade stated with malevolence, before pulling two vials out of her pocket and saying.
"If you two don't want to keel over from heart attacks within the next five minutes, I suggest you come over here and drink this."
Both Koharu and Homura quickly scurried over snatching the vials off of Tsunade's desk and hastily downing its contents, as Tsunade watched them with a cold gaze at the advisors before speaking once again.
"Believe me, I was truly tempted to get rid of all three of you corrupt and decrepit old fossils on this day. Fortunately enough for you two, I decided otherwise. I know the two of you have gotten rich over the years off of Hiashi Hyuga and Danzo's bribes, but the payday's for your support of their measures in the Council ends now! From now on, you are going to agree with and support any and all proposals I make within the Council from now on. You will also use whatever influence you have with those idiot minions on the Civilian side of the Council to support my measures. Your payment for all of this will be the continuation of your health to still live quite comfortably off the money you have received all these years. Failure by you to do any of what I just said, and I can most assuredly promise you that this will be the last Kyuubi Festival either of you will ever see again. Do we understand one another?"
"We shall do no such thing Tsunade! Now that you've given us the antidote to your poison you hold no power over us!" Homura now spoke for the first time in smug confidence.
Tsunade merely gazed at the old man standing before her and smirked at the bravado he was attempting to show and said with amusement.
"My dear Homura, when did I ever say that those vials contained the antidote?"
Both Hokage advisors looked at one another in confusion and fear before turning their attention back to Tsunade who sat in her chair gazing at them with the same smug look they had leveled upon her earlier. Realizing Tsunade had total control of their current situation; both Koharu and Homura slumped defeated into their chairs in front of the buxom blonde Hokage and waited anxiously for what her next move would be. They didn't have to wait long as Tsunade leaned forward and lifted up the coverings of the two boxes Ibiki had placed on her desk. Both elders' eyes grew wide in confusion as the two boxes were actually cages with each one containing a rat with some sort of mechanical device with tubes attached to the rat's nipples.
Koharu looked upon the two rodents with absolute revulsion and commented in loathing.
"For what purpose have you brought those filthy beasts in here for Tsunade?"
"Let's get one thing straight right now! What I said to Danzo earlier also applies to you. If either of you address me as anything but Hokage-sama or Lady Tsunade in the future, you will be joining Danzo in the afterlife! Do I make myself clear?"
"Ha-hai, Hokage-sama." Both elders simultaneously replied.
Satisfied with the tone of their answer Tsunade leaned back in her chair and said in a mirth-filled voice.
"You shouldn't speak so unkindly about your new pet Koharu. Because I can promise you these darling little creatures are what will be keeping you alive in the future."
"Wh, what are you talking about Tsu….Lady Tsunade?" Homura stammered in confusion.
"Nice catch, what I'm talking about is this. Both you and Koharu must care for your new pet if you wish to live. As the two of you already know a poison has been introduced into you. However, by milking your new pets and drinking said liquid everyday you will gain the antidote you need to stay alive. Also, you need not worry that your pets will stop lactating. I've injected them with a special hormone of my own design that will ensure that biological function will continue on. However, you'll need to bring your pets back to me for a booster shot of that hormone so they can continue to save your miserable lives. And what a coincidence those booster shots are scheduled within a couple of days after every scheduled Council session. So if I were you, I would not miss those appointments and I would give your new pets all the care, love, and support you two can still muster from your fossilized hearts. For if you do not, then give my regards to Danzo when you see him in Hell!"
Koharu and Homura turned and looked at one another, before turning back to see the resilient and determined look on their Hokage's face. Seeing Tsunade's hardened gaze directed towards them, both advisors bowed their heads in submission and meekly replied in unison.
"Yes Hokage-sama."
"Good, because I'm telling you two right now, the Konoha Council is going to become once more a decent, noble, and self-sacrificing body of leadership for this village like it was in the days of my uncle the Nidaime. And I will remove any obstacles in my way from achieving that goal."
Tsunade then waved a hand dismissively at them and ordered with contempt.
"Now, the two of you get out of my sight, but never forget what I have said to you on this day. Nor will you repeat what I've said to you either say to a certain Hyuga master who holds your leashes. Do we understand one another?"
"Hai Hokage-sama."
Tsunade watched with satisfaction, as her two advisors shambledout of her office with their heads bowed low in abject defeat, while carrying her gifts to them. Upon seeing the door close behind them, the blonde Hokage pulled a bottle of sake out of her desk drawer and poured herself a drink, before lifting the cup in the air and declaring.
"I promise you Naruto-kun, when you return to the village and eventually take my place as the Rokudaime. You will not be plagued with the corrupt and deceitful administration that Sensei, your father, or I were shackled with. This village will become the utopia my grandfather the Shodai always dreamt it could be. And I know you will be the one to lead Konoha into a new golden era."
Tsunade then slammed the drink down her throat in triumph before getting up and making her way over to the hospital to check on Anko.
October 10th, a day that would always hold significance for Konohagakure in many ways. The foremost being it was the day the Hidden Leaf village's beloved Yondaime Hokage Minato Namikaze sacrificed his life to defeat the King of the Bijuu the Kyuubi no Youko and save the village 16 years ago. And on this day to honor that sacrifice and commemorate the memory of their dearly-loved Fourth Hokage, a festival was staged that would last for an entire week. Over the ensuing years, the Kyuubi Festival as it came to be named became well known throughout all the elemental nations for its grandiose cultural performances, exhibitions, competitions, food, drink, and overall merriment in celebrating Minato Namikaze and the noble sacrifice he made to save them all.
However, the villagers were especially excited about this year's festival, as it was the day the Yondaime's final message was to be addressed to the people who call Konohagakure home. As the excitement began to build within the village of being able to hear their most revered Hokage speak to them for one last time. Little did any of them know that today was a day that would change all of their lives once that message was conveyed for all to hear. Still before the people would learn what Minato had to say to them that evening. There was still a village to govern, which Tsunade and the Konoha Council were attempting to do during their afternoon Council session.
As Tsunade brought the Council meeting to order she looked around the room before her eyes lingered on the Civilian Council for a moment. All of them held smug and contemptuous look upon their faces that were only matched by the same expression Hiashi Hyuga held on his face. Tsunade grinned slightly as she knew before the session was through she would be in total control of the Council.
'So Hiashi, according to Danzo's journal, the reason you supported his non-aggression plan is when that treaty weakened the Fire Country and more notably the Leaf village both politically, economically, and most important militarily in the eyes of the rest of the elemental nations. You along with Danzo and those two fossils of advisors were going to go to the capital and petition the Daimyo to have me removed as Hokage and you named as my successor to bring our village back to its original strength and status that it held before the treaty with the Land of Rice was signed. You scheming Hyuga, I guess you never did get over being relegated to the third choice to become the Fourth Hokage over Minato-kun and Orichi-teme. So I'm going to take great pleasure in seeing the look on your face as you watch your Hokage dreams go up in smoke right now!' Tsunade thought to herself with justified amusement, before clearing her throat and addressing the Council session.
"Ahem, if all of you could please take your seats, I will officially bring this Council Session to order. I know many of you are anxious to start celebrating the Kyuubi Festival, but we have a few urgent matters that require our attention to take care of first. Shizune, please take the roll-call for Konohagakure Council session held on October 10th in the year of etc, etc."
After the roll was taken the blonde Hokage spoke once again and stoically announced.
"As all of you know the Leaf village suffered the tragic loss of two of our most prominent political leaders in Councilman Danzo Shimura and recently elected Councilman Osamu Hashimoto this week. Their untimely passing will be felt by all of us in this room in many ways. Now I believe a moment of silence in remembrance is in order before we begin."
Tsunade was barely able to choke down the bile that had risen in her throat to give Danzo and his lackey any type of tribute, but she knew she had to carry on the façade of the respectful leader towards those men. Meanwhile, Hiashi's mind was awhirl in thought, as he silently mused.
'Tragic loss indeed, you big-titted bitch! I can't prove it, but I'm sure you had something to do with their untimely passing! It doesn't matter; the non-aggression treaty can still pass. The eight remaining Civilian Councilmen will vote for it and even with Danzo's death since he introduced the measure his vote is already cast in favor of it. And with my vote and Koharu and Homura now able to cast a single vote due to enacting the decree that a State of Hostility now exists between the Fire and Rice countries at last week's Council session. That still gives us an 11-9 clear margin in victory. So the treaty will automatically pass and there is nothing you can do about it Tsunade. I'll be sitting in the Hokage chair within a year.'
"Now to the first order of business, to replace the Council seats lost this week by the deaths of Danzo and Osamuwith two new councilmen." Tsunade proclaimed with authority.
"What are talking about Hokage-sama? You can't do that, Civilian Councilman are duly elected by the people of their district and then confirmed by the current members of the Konoha Council." Hiashi exclaimed in disbelief.
"Ahh yes Hyuga-san, under a normal peacetime condition you are correct and that is how the councilmen would normally be replaced. However, since Konohagakure is now under a decree that a State of Hostility now exists between the Fire and Rice countries, as we unanimously voted upon at last week's Council session. It grants me the power as Hokage to fillthose lost seats immediately so there is no interruption to the smooth day-to-day governing of the village during such a critical time."
Hiashi remained silent, but gritted his teeth in rage and being outmaneuvered by the blonde Hokage who thought to herself, as she watched the Hyuga leaders stew in his own anger and frustration.
'That's right Hiashi; I studied up on the powers granted to the Hokage by the State of Hostility measure we've enacted. You and Danzo used that decree to allow my so-called advisors the ability to now cast a vote within the Council. So turn about is fair play that I now get to use it against you!' Tsunade silently mused to herself with satisfaction before announcing.
"If there are no further objections, please allow me to introduce the two newest members of the Konoha Civilian Council, Councilman Hanshiro Sato and Councilman Teuchi Ichiraku." Tsunade then led a chorus of applause from everyone in the room welcoming the two newest members, as the entered the Council chamber.
When the clapping eventually died down, Tsunade ordered a brief 15 minute recess so the two new councilmen go about and introduce themselves to their fellow Konoha Council members. After a few minutes, Hanshiro and Teuchi met with Hiashi and few Civilian Councilmen who were with the Hyuga leader. With a sickening sweet smile on his face Hiashi introduced himself and the others before commenting in a dulcet tone of voice.
"I bid you welcome to the Konoha Council Hanshiro-san and Teuchi-san. If you have any questions about anything please don't hesitate to ask one of your colleagues here on the Civilian side of the Council. They will be happy to help you out in any way they can as will I if needed."
"Thank you for your offer of assistance Hiashi-san. If either myself or Teuchi feel in need for any assistance your gracious offer is most appreciated."
"Think nothing of it Hanshiro-san. By the way now that you're here there is matter that is to be voted upon of great significance and importance to the Leaf village. I'm speaking of the non-aggression proposal introduced by the late councilman Danzo. Are you and Teuchi-san familiar with it?"
"Yes, we've been studying the proposal for the last few days since Tsunade chose us to replace your former colleagues. You have both my own and Teuchi-san's condolences for your loss." Hanshiro gave with respect to the Civilian Council members around them.
"Well said, but I do have to ask, as Danzo's replacement on the Council, what is your position on his non-aggression proposal between our country and village and the Land of Rice and their village?"
"Well to tell you the truth Hiashi-san in regards to this proposal we are still undecided. We both know that the measure is going to be debated today and we felt rather than make a decision now we would like to hear both sides of the issue before making any snap decisions."
"A wise course of action to take. However, let me tell you that your fellow comrades on the Civilian Council along with myself wish to see Danzo's final deed within our government to pass. He sought a peaceful solution to end the animosity between the Fire and Rice countries. Too many lives have already been lost this past year and if we can enact this treaty we will be able to put an end to that and restore Konoha to a peacetime existence once again, as opposed to the State of Hostility decree that now exists between the Fire and Rice countries. We all truly feel it is in the best interest of not only for the sake of peace, but also for the Leaf village as a whole. Do you and Teuchi-san agree with assessment?"
"You do make some valid points Hiashi-san and it seems to appear to be in the best interest of the Leaf village. So I can assure you, both Teuchi-san and myself will always vote in the best interest of the Leaf village."
"That is excellent to hear. I look forward to working with you and Teuchi-san in the future. I can also assure you, that it will be well worth it to both of you in many ways to work with me and our colleagues within the Civilian Council."
An announcement from Tsunade interrupted any further conversation, as all of the Council members began returning to their seats.
"If everyone is finished meeting with our newest Councilmen, I wish to restart this session of the Konohagakure Council meeting. The first order of business is to discuss and vote upon the late Councilman Danzo's proposal that we enact a non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice. All of you have had a week to look over the measure. I will now open the floor to debate over the said treaty."
After an hour of heated and contentious debate over the non-aggression plan with the Land of Rice between Hiashi Hyuga and Shikaku Nara. The Hyuga leader had finally had enough of seeing the Nara turn all of his arguments against him and called for a vote.
Tsunade then announced voting on the matter to take place and individually asked each Council member to cast his or her vote.
"Councilman Aburame."
"I vote no to this measure."
"Councilman Akimichi."
"I also vote no."
"Councilman Akito."
"I vote yay."
"Councilman Chikao."
"I too vote yay."
"Councilman Hama."
"I vote yes to the proposal."
"Councilman Hyuga."
"For the peace of our village I vote yes." Hiashi pompously declared and smirked to himself, as the measure now held a 4-2 advantage to its passage.
"Councilwoman Inuzuka."
"For the peace of our village my ass Hyuga, the Inuzuka vote no!"
Hiashi glared at Tsume Inuzuka, who merely flipped him the bird as Tsunade continued on.
"Councilman Ishida."
"I vote yes on the matter."
"Councilman Isoroku."
"I vote yay."
Tsunade cleared her throat and then announced and asked
"Ahem, the current vote total is 6-3 in favor of endorsing a non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice. Councilman Kenta what is your vote?
"I vote for peace, so I vote yes."
"Councilman Kurama."
"I vote nay."
"Councilman Nara."
Troublesome, but the price of your peace is too high for the village to pay Hiashi, so I vote no."
"Councilman Saburo."
"I vote yes to the treaty."
"Councilwoman Sarutobi."
"While I would like to raise my son Konohamaru in a world of peace, the violent and aggressive actions by the Land of Rice towards our country and village cannot simply be ignored or swept away by signing a non-aggression treaty with them. Not after they have taken so many lives over this past year. I vehemently vote no to this measure!"
"Well said Sarutobi-san." Tsume Inuzuka openly complimented.
"And it's stubborn and prideful thinking like that which will forever keep peace from our grasp if we let it! I vote yes to this treaty proposal!" Councilman Yokichi exclaimed with zealous fury, as he jumped ahead of Inoichi Yamanaka to vote.
"Councilman Yamanaka, what is your vote?" Tsunade questioned.
"I vote no to this ridiculous plan."
"Very well, the current vote now stands at 9-7 in favor of passage."
"A moment of order Hokage-sama, now that the Leaf village and the Fire country has enacted a decree that a State of Hostility now exists between the Fire and Rice countries as of last week's Council session. Your advisors are now allowed to cast a vote as well so long as they both unanimously agree to it." Hiashi announced in a self-satisfied tone of voice.
"You're correct Councilman Hyuga." Tsunade replied, unfazed by this information, as she turned to the two elder advisors and asked.
"Have you two reached a unanimous decision and wish to vote on this matter?"
"Hai Hokage-sama, we have. Both elder Homura and I feel it would be in the best interest of the Leaf village to vote…..no on this matter."
A look of utter shock spread across Hiashi's before his visage changed to one of pent-up rage, as he glared across the room at the two elders who both refused to dare even look in his direction. It was all the Hyuga clan leader could do to keep from marching across the Council floor and throttling the life out of both advisors when he heard Tsunade say.
"The current vote now stands at 9-8 in favor of passage, Councilman Hanshiro how do you vote?"
So angry was Hiashi at the elder advisors that he had momentarily forgotten that there were still two more Councilmen to vote on the proposal, as he thought to himself.
'I'll deal with those double-crossing elders later! The non-aggression treaty can still happen so long as those two new fools on the Civilian Council vote as they said they would for passage. It won't be the clear majority we needed to automatically enact it, but it should be enough to convince the Fire Daimyo to follow through with the measure, provided of course we pay that greedy idiot enough money to do so.'
Hiashi thoughts of still pulling out a victory and gaining passage of the non-aggression proposal came to an abrupt end, when he heard Councilman Hanshiro declare.
"Like Councilwoman Sarutobi, both I and Councilman Teuchi would like to raise our daughters Tenten and Ayame in a world of peace. However, the Land of Rice and their village Otogakure have clearly shown since their attempted invasion of our village and their subsequent violent acts of aggression against us over the past year that peace can never be achieved with such a disreputable government, as to what currently exists in the Land of Rice. So long as the Leaf village traitors Orochimaru and Sasuke Uchiha hold power within that region. The Land of Fire and more importantly the Leaf village will never be safe until those two criminals are removed…permanently. So both Councilman Teuchi and I vote no to any type of peace accord with the Land of Rice, now or in the future!"
The entire shinobi side of the Konoha Council except for Hiashi rose and gave a standing ovation to the two new Councilmen. While the civilian side of the Council could only sit in muted silence, as all of them tried to grasp and understand what had just happened. After a minute, the applause died down and Tsunade stated with obvious joy.
"The current vote now stands at 10-9 in favor of rejection of the non-aggression proposal. As of now, I do exercise my right as Hokage granted to me by the ancient by-laws for the best interest of the village to cast two votes on any measure or proposal introduced by our Council and I wholeheartedly vote NO on this proposal. This makes the final tally 12-9 a clear majority in favor of rejecting the proposal to create a non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice."
Tsunade then slammed her gavel down onto her desk indicating the matter was now closed. Hiashi was in a daze as he attempted to come to grips with seeing his master-plan of gaining the Hokageship come crashing down around him. It had taken the Hyuga leader a number of years and a lot of money to finally gain control of the Konoha Council. And once he had ascended to the position of Rokudaime and with the power of the Council at his disposal, Hiashi was going to reshape the Leaf village as he saw fit and make the Hyuga clan the most powerful in all the elemental nations. Now seeing that dream crushed before his very eyes, he was ill prepared for Tsunade's next political maneuver.
"With the voting upon that matter now complete, are there any other proposals any members of the Council wishes to introduce to be voted upon?"
Almost instantly, several hands from the shinobi side of the Council were raised high in the air. Hiashi saw this and suddenly realized what was about to happen. Various proposals, measures, potential new laws, all of these were things that his fellow clan leaders had wished to see enacted in the past. However, they had always been unable to do so, for if he or Danzo could not derive any type of benefit from them, the power they held within the Council had always defeated them. Now with this unexpected shift in the power of the Konoha Council, his shinobi colleagues would finally see victory. It was then that Hiashi's had an epiphany, as he thought in disbelief.
'For all of them to have their proposals at the ready for today's meeting, they must have known in advance that they would be able to get their measures passed at this Council session. Whereas in all the other sessions in the past when they attempted to do so failed. That means the entire Shinobi Council except for me was expecting this turn of events in the power structure of the Council. They knew, they all knew!'
Hiashi whipped his head around in a rage only to be greeted by the smiling faces of his fellow clan leaders looking directly at him. All except Tsume Inuzuka who blew a raspberry at the enraged Hyuga leader, before laughing boisterously at the chagrined look he now bore upon his face.
The rest of the Konoha Council session was a series of quick debates over various proposals brought forth by members of the Shinobi Council before a vote was called them. And each measure would pass by the same 12-9 margin all afternoon long. Tsunade herself introduced the final proposal of the Council meeting to be voted upon when she set forth to officially name Naruto Uzumaki her successor-in-waiting to become the next Hokage upon her retirement or death.
This proposal was hotly debated for several minutes, as all of the members of the Civilian Council were well-known antagonist towards Naruto his entire life. However, the killing intent exuded by Tsuande and all the clan leaders save Hiashi towards the Civilian Council quickly cowed them into place. And once the vote was taken it was even more surprising that it tallied a 14-7 approval for Naruto to officially be declared Tsunade's successor-in-waiting. Apparently Councilmen Ishida and Saburo had come to the rightful conclusion that the civilian side of the Konoha Council no longer brokered the power within the government. They also knew of Lady Tsunade's personal feelings towards the Kyuubi container and decided to try to gain favor and get on her good side by voting in favor of the proposal.
"Bah, it doesn't matter if we officially name the Kyuubi-brat your successor or not Hokage-Tsunade. The people will never accept him becoming the Rokudiame and will demand that we choose another!" Hiashi spat in derision, as the Hyuga leader was absolutely furious at how the Council session had gone this day.
"You might be correct about that Councilman Hyuga, but you never know what can sway a person from one point of view to another in the blink of an eye." Tsunade replied in a coy tone of voice, while she thought about Minato's message to be publicized later that evening to the people.
"If there are no further matters to discuss, I hereby end this session of the Konoha Council."
As the Hokage, her advisors, and the shinobi side of the Council began exiting the chamber, Hiashi signaled the eight councilmen he still had on his payroll to stay behind. The Hyuga leader was determined to regain his power and control over the Council and the first step would be to bring the two new Civilian Councilmen Hanshiro and Teuchi under his thumb. Hiashi approached the two councilmen flanked by all the others and accusingly spoke.
"I had thought you were a man of your word Hanshiro-san! Yours and Teuchi-san's actions in the Council have caused significant damage today."
"Of what do you speak of Hiashi-San?"
"What I speak of is both of you voting to reject the non-aggression treaty with the Land of Rice when you had said before the proposal was to be voted upon that it was in the best interest of the Leaf village and that you would cast your votes in favor of it!"
"Actually, what I said was that the proposal seemed to appear to be in the best interest of the Leaf village. However, after hearing Shikaku-san's arguments against signing such a treaty during the debate of the issue, we both felt that rejecting the proposal was more beneficial to the village than accepting it. And like I said, both Teuchi-san and I will always vote in the best interest of the Leaf village. We will not be influenced by anyone in the decisions we make and that includes you Hiashi-san!" Hanshiro explained with a slight edge to his voice.
"You would be prudent to accept my wisdom and join in following the example of your fellow councilmen. It could prove costly to your health if oppose me and the coalition in future Council sessions." Hiashi subtly hinted at while the eight councilmen around him brandished various weapons underneath their robes. However, before anyone could make move towards the two new councilmen, Hanshiro and Teuchi leapt into action.
Being an experienced shinobi Hiashi had instinctively jumped backwards the moment Hanshiro and Teuchi had attacked. Unfortunately, when he looked up he was greeted with a sight the Hyuga patriarch was not expecting. Hanshiro held some sort of hammer-like weapon, while Teuchi brandished two elongated kunai and both men were dispatching their fellow eight civilian councilmen with ease. The two men had not killed any of the councilmen, but it was safe to say that none of those men would ever consider attacking either Hanshiro or Teuchi ever again after this day. As the last councilmen fell to the floor in a bloody heap, the two new councilmen turned their attention towards Hiashi, but made no move, as a sound of clapping filled the air of the Council chamber.
"It's good to see that your skills haven't diminished too much over the years." Tsunade quipped in amusement, as she approached still clapping her hands in applause.
"You're too kind Lady Tsunade." Teuchi politely answered, while bowing his head.
"Ohhhh, quit sucking up to the Hokage Teuchi. You and I both know in the old days we would have been able to take these fools down in 15 seconds instead of the 30 it took us now to do." Hanshiro griped to his friend.
"Hiashi, you looked absolutely confused. Let me introduce to you the two new councilmen I've appointed to the Civilian Council. Although I really shouldn't have to, you've met them hundreds of times before in the past." Tsunade commented in mirth.
"What are you talking about? I've never met these men before today!"
"Ahh but you have, let me introduce to you Councilman Hanshiro Sato and Councilman Teuchi Ichiraku or as they were known by their codenames when they served with distinction within Konoha's shinobi forces Mace-Hanma (Mace-Hammer) and Satsu-Ittou (Slicing Sword)."
Hiashi's white eyes grew wide in recognition upon hearing those names. These two men standing before him were the main-gate guardians of Konoha for over 35 years before retiring and turning their positions over to their students Kotetsu Hagane and Izumo Kamizuki. Their fighting skills with any type of mace or hammer or any type of blade was legendary in the annuals of the Leaf village. It was once reported that during the Second Great Shinobi War when Konoha had virtually all of their shinobi forces out on the battlefield, a group of 50 rogue bandits attempted storm and loot the village by the front gate. Upon their attack an alarm was sounded and reinforcements were dispatched. However, by the time the reinforcements arrived all they found were 50 bodies littering the field outside the main-gate with Mace-Hanma and Satsu-Ittou arguing about which was better a finely crafted weapon or a finely cooked meal.
Upon learning the true identity of these men Hiashi knew he was beaten. These were men he could never control through intimidation, threats, or bribery. These were principled men in every sense of the word and would always carry themselves with honor, loyalty, and bravery for the Leaf village and the Hokage. Bowing his head in a show of respect to Hanshiro and Teuchi surprising both men and Tsunade alike, the Hyuga leader then turned and walked quietly out of the Council chamber knowing his control over the Konoha Council had ended on this day.
It seemed as though entire populace of the Hidden Leaf village had gathered at the base of Hokage Mountain and were eagerly buzzing with excitement, as everyone anxiously awaited to hear what their beloved Yondaime's final message to them was the night he sacrificed his life to seal away the Kyuubi. Many of the villagers wondered why the Fourth Hokage had requested that his message not be revealed for 16 years. However, most of them merely brushed it off under the explanation that if Minato wanted the message to be revealed on this date then he must have a very good and wise reason for it. Some of the villagers openly groused and lamented that they weren't able to give a proper tribute to the Fourth Hokage on this night such as the cold dead body of Naruto Uzumaki the Kyuubi incarnate in their minds.
Meanwhile, Tsunade stood along with the eight clan leaders at a podium on a stage built in front of the Hokage Monument overlooking the ever-growing throng of people gathering in front of them. The Slug Sannin bore a stern look on her face, which was surprising, as it had been a very good day for the buxom blonde Hokage. A better day she could not remember having in years because of what had transpired in the Council meeting earlier. As much as Tsunade might dearly love to crack open a bottle of sake and celebrate the lifting of the corrupt Civilian Council off of her shoulders. She knew she had to get into the proper mindset if what she suspected her son's message was going to be to the people of Konoha. Because after Minato's message was over, Tsunade had few choice words of her own she was going to broadcast to the people. The blonde Hokage leisurely approached the podium and speaking into a microphone addressed the villagers gathered there.
"People of the Hidden Leaf village, as you can see the hour of nine o'clock in nigh upon us. As you know, sixteen years ago on this very date our revered Yondaime Hokage sacrificed his life to defeat the Kyuubi no Youko and save our village and its people. Before he made his noble sacrifice, he recorded a final message that he wanted conveyed to the people on the 16th anniversary of his death. Today is that day and I bid all of you to listen with not only your minds, but also your hearts at what Minato Namikaze our beloved Yondaime Hokage has to say to all of you."
When the hour struck 9:00pm the noise of the crowd died down to a murmur as Tsunade approached an intricately drawn seal at the base of Hokage Mountain. Pulling a vial out of her coat pocket and dipping a paintbrush into it. She smeared the red liquid over the seal and watched as it began to glow before quickly returning to her podium on the stage. The glowing seal grew brighter and brighter with each passing second before a beam of light shot into the sky and became a gigantic 3D projection of Minato Namikaze. There was an audible gasp from the crowd, as the image Minato was so solid and lifelike. It showed Minato in some sort of cave of underground dwelling and he was kneeling down and looking at bundle of something in front of him, before looking up and as if addressing the crowd Minato then spoke.
Good people of Konoha.
On this the happiest day of my life, a terrible disaster has befallen our village. The Nine-Tailed Demon Fox the Kyuubi no Youko has attacked our home. It has already wrought terrible destruction and taken many lives in its carnage. Even now Hokage-Sarutobi and our brave shinobi forces are doing their best to keep the might beast at bay, but it is to no avail. I know of only one way to stop it, but I'm afraid I must sacrifice my life to do so. I gladly choose to do this to save such a fine home as the Village Hidden in the Leaves and its noble people. However, do not revere me as a hero for doing this. No, let me introduce you to the true hero of the Leaf village, the one who will forever keep the Kyuubi no Youko at bay, never to darken your lives ever again.
Minato then reached down and carefully picked up the bundle in front of him before cradling it his arms and showing it was a baby with a shock of blonde hair and three distinctive whisker-like birthmarks adorning each cheek. It was then the people of Konoha heard Minato proclaim in a proud, yet choked-up voice, as a tear rolled down his cheek.
Allow me to introduce all of you good people to my son.
Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze
Author Notes: I bet the people of the Leaf village were not expecting that message from Minato. I wonder what their reaction is going to be and what does Tsunade want to say to them? Oh well, those questions will be answered another day. Greetings, I welcome all of you the latest chapter of my tale, consider it my early Christmas present to you all. It is a chapter steeped heavily in the politics of the Leaf village and I know politics can be intensely boring, but it was necessary for the story. Plus, I've seen in very few stories including the manga that have actually attempted to explain just how the hell the Konoha Council functions? After I started, I soon came to realize why so many authors had not attempted this, it's nightmare to write! I can't begin to tell you how many different ways I came up with to explain the Konoha Council, but the difficult part was making it sound plausible. So this was my attempt and good or bad I have to live with it. Congratulations to everyone for making it past the first two and a half pages of the political minutiae at the start. However, after you got past that, the story really picked up. Who knew that Tsunade had such stones within her? So the Konoha Council is now in good hands and will no longer be a threat to Naruto when he returns.
As for this chapter, I feel like I probably should show what the make-up of the Konoha Council is now after Tsunade's maneuvering if I didn't do a good enough job explaining it in the chapter.
Konoha Council:
Shinobi Council - - - - - - Civilian Council
Aburame-PN - - - - - - - - - - - Akito-AN
Akimichi-PN - - - - - - - - - - - -Chikao-AN
Hyuga-AN - - - - - - - - - - - - -Hama-AN
Inuzuka-PN - - - - - - - - - - - Ishida-AN
Nara-PN - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Isoroku-AN
Kurama-PN - - - - - - - - - - - -Kenta-AN
Sarutobi-PN - - - - - - - - - - - Saburo-AN
Yamanaka-PN - - - - - - - - - -Yokichi-AN
Namikaze (Not active) - - - - Ichiraku-PN
Uchiha (Not active) - - - - - - Sato-PN
*Senju (Not active)
** Hokage Advisors - Koharu, Homura
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* The Senju seat on the Council will become active again upon Tsunade's retirement.
** The Hokage Advisors are allowed to place a single vote in the Council only in wartime or when the Konoha Council had enacted a Decree of Hostility against another nation.
PN – Pro Naruto
AN – Anti Naruto
I went ahead and listed Civilian Councilmen Ishida and Saburo as Anti-Naruto because they actually are. However, they will more than likely vote on issues involving Naruto in his favor in their bid to suck-up to Tsunade. As for Tsunade she now controls the Konoha Council by virtue of having the entire Shinobi side except for the Hyuga with her, which is seven votes. She also has the newly chosen Civilian Councilmen Sato and Ichiraku on her side, which are two more votes. She has the single vote of her Hokage Advisors Koharu and Homura. Finally, Tsunade also holds her own two votes under the power of being Hokage. This gives Tsunade 12 votes, which is enough to garner a clear majority win on any issue she wishes, within reason of course.
Anyway, I hope everyone enjoyed this chapter and I'm anxious to see what your reviews will be for it. I do wish to thank everyone both old and new readers who took the time to review my last chapter. For those of you who did review, you all had a lot to say about it and I'm pleased that this story has such a strong fan base with readers who actually write out well thought-out reviews. Because of that, I enjoy reading many of your reviews, so please leave lots of them, as they do help a writer get an idea of the thoughts and opinions of the fans of a story. They also can help lift the spirits of an author as well. Also, to any readers who are staff members to any C2 communities, please feel free to add my story to your community if you feel it is worthy of it. I won't mind, I swear. I'll even pinkie swear if I need to?
Also, I've placed into this chapter subtle homage to a classic science-fiction novel. It's fairly easy one; just tell me the title and author of the novel of where I got the idea of milking an animal to provide an antidote to someone who has been poisoned. Once again, a cyber-cookie and milk or a cyber-beer and mozzarella sticks your choice if you can name the movie and character
Breaking News & Questions
News:
For the past few chapters I've alerted my readers to a couple of polls set up on each of their accounts by the fine authors brown phantom and Zentary asking the question.
Who is the best Naruto fanfic writer on this site?
Recently, brown phantom let me know that he would be closing his poll at the end of the year.
However, Zetary's poll will still remain open.
As for the poll themselves, they both have each listed 50 authors and you're allowed to vote for 10 choices on each poll. Both authors have graciously placed my name on both polls. And both polls have been going on strong for a few months and I'm really looking forward to seeing the final results.
So I humbly ask if you feel I'm worthy of being one of your 10 picks to please place a vote for me. If you haven't voted yet on these polls please do so, as I could really use your help to make a good showing. A top 10 showing would be nice, but a top 5 would just be incredible and it's the perfect Christmas gift too, lol.
I thank you in advance for your support and the links to the profile pages for both brown phantom and Zentary are listed below.
brown phantom http:/www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/u/1634435/
Zentary http:/www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/u/2022054/
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Question?
I came across a story a few months ago and for some reason didn't alert it and now I can't find it. And as many of you know the search engine for when it's actually working is pretty useless most of the time. So I was wondering if any out there can direct me to the story I'm looking for. I'll try to describe as much of it as I can from memory.
Minato is alive and is the Hokage.
Minato sleeps with, impregnates, and marries Tsunade, but I can't remember if there was a lemon scene or not?
Jiraiya is hurt by this of seeing his pseudo-son sleep with, impregnating, and marrying the woman he loves and leaves the village.
I think Tsunade has twins Naruto being one of them. However, both she and Minato neglect Naruto badly in favor of the other child. Also I'm not a 100% sure, but I think Naruto deserts them and runs away.
I also think in this story that Jiraiya has hooked up with Shizune somehow outside of the village.
Minato and Tsunade's marriage starts to turn to crap after a few years.
Unfortunately, that's all I can really remember of the story, so if anyone can help me out in identifying it. I would be most grateful for the assistance.
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If you didn't already know, I've been writing a revised version of a Naruto/Bleach crossover story I was co-writing with my fellow author NeonZangetsu. The new revised story is called "Do I Have A Purpose Anymore?" If you're both a Naruto and a Bleach fan I think you will really enjoy this story. So far I've posted 13 chapters of the revised story, so catching up if you wish to read it will not be time consuming for you to do.
End of News and Questions
Now, onto everyone's favorite section Kingkakashi's rants on the manga yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
Once again I have very few positive things to say about the last few issues of the Naruto manga!
*Warning I do give away some spoilers in my rants, so read at your own risk.
#562 – This chapter starts off with the injured Third Tsuchikage Oonoki picking himself up and getting ready to fight the Edo Tensei badass Madara. Who is shaping up more and more to be the true main villain in the story and not the fake Madara. We then switch over to Tsunade wanting to be teleported to that battle scene. There's an argument that she won't survive the teleportation, but in the end she gets her way and Ei decides to join her. Then we switch to the Mizukage and the Alliance shinobi finally taking down Zetsu who was after all the Daimyo's. Now we get to the part, which has virtually all readers up in arms. The bastardization of the Fourth Hokage's most prized technique the Hiraishin no Jutsu or Flying Thunder God Technique. I agree with most people who found it pretty annoying and insulting how the Hiraishin "suddenly" appeared to have been passed on to three random ninja Genma, Raidou, and someone else who isn't even identified. Supposedly these three were Minato's Special Guards and taught them the technique, which they can only use in unison.
Now like many readers it pisses me off that Minato's legacy jutsu was never taught to his own son, but I also find it ridiculous the Special Guards for a Hokage aren't even Jounin, but Tokubetsu (special) Jounin. I mean shouldn't the bodyguards of a Kage consist of three of the most powerful ninja they have? It appears to be that way for all the other Kage's. Those three shinobi then get set to teleport the Mizukage to Gaara and Oonoki's battle. However before this Tsunade and Ei teleport into that battle (no explanation given on how they survived the teleportation of course) and land a couple of killer blows onto Edo Tensei badass Madara and the Edo Tensei revived Second Tsuchikage. The chapter ends with the Mizukage arriving and we get a cool scene of all five Kage's of the Five Great nations standing together and ready to fight. By the way did anyone else notice that the Raikage's left-arm the one he lost fighting Sasuke had magically re-grown in that scene. An ok chapter, but I would have liked it more if Kishimoto hadn't debased the Flying God technique.
#563 – This chapter begins with the Mizukage and the Raikage who has apparently lost his left-arm again attacking Edo Tensei badass Madara and the Edo Tensei revived Second Tsuchikage, while Tsunade heal Oonoki and Gaara. The Mizukage and the Raikage unleash a couple of killer attacks and appear to have hurt Madara. However, he's an Uchiha with all the wonderful powers that Kishimoto has blessed them with and he whips out his Susanoo defense and hasn't been hurt at all. Now all the Kage's team-up and launch another killer offense that once again seems to have damaged Madara. Meanwhile the Naruto clone there wants to join the fight, but then we get this philosophical speech from Oonoki about why he shouldn't and they send him off to do battle with the fake Madara. This chapter had some cool action to it, but not much else.
#564 – The start of this chapter is the Naruto and Killer Bee fight versus the fake Madara and all the Edo-Tensei Jinchuuriki all of whom are equipped with a Sharingan and a Rinnegan. So Naruto and Killer Bee start slugging it out with the two-tailed through seven-tailed Bijuu and things aren't going well for KB and Naruto. During a pause in the battle the fake Madara learns from Naruto the real Madara has been Edo-Tensei revived by Kabuto. He's not happy about it, as we get a quick memory from him showing it was the real Madara in the coffin that scared him when he and Kabuto first hooked up. Then after a minute he doesn't seem to care as the war has started and spouts off about not needing a name, but everyone starts referring to him as Tobi. I'm taking a guess here, but I think this Tobi is either Obito Uchiha or Madara's younger brother Izuna Uchiha. Anyway, the chapter ends with Naruto saying he's going to rip Tobi's mask off his head and find out who he is. Tobi says he's going to have to work to do that and gets set to send his Edo-Tensei Jinchuuriki to attack Naruto and KB once again. An ok chapter, but also kind of boring.
#565 – This chapter is a continuation of the Jinchuuriki fight and once more Naruto and KB are getting their butts kicked. I've seen in forums and other places where readers are complaining that Naruto and KB shouldn't be getting beat this badly, but to me it makes sense. The other six Edo-Tensei Jinchuuriki combined have Naruto and KB outgunned in terms of tail-power by 10. Plus they've been given the Sharingan and Rinnegan and they still had their normal powers as well. Like I've said before, it's just another example of Kishimoto over-powering the villains ridiculously. Anyway, Naruto and KB come up with a plan to take down the ET-Jinchuuriki by destroying the black Pein rods they figured Tobi is using to control them. Their attack fails of course and the eight-tailed demon Hachibi decides they need more room to fight and gets set to level the forest they're in ending the chapter. Once again, an ok chapter, but also kind of boring.
#566 – This chapter starts with Killer Bee transforming into his Hachibi form and blowing up to a massive size and leveling the forest. We then switch to a cool scene of Shikaku Nara running things and giving orders at the Shinobi Alliance HQ. We then switch back to Naruto and KB and by leveling the forest it has also taken down all the ET-Jinchuuriki. The Hachibi tries to seal all of them with Octopus ink. A great plan and is actually semi-believable that Naruto and KB can win their fight against their ET-revived comrades. Of course Kishimoto can't have the good guys get a victory so Tobi pops up and powers up all the ET-Jinchuuriki into their tailed-demon form and they attack the Hachibi and Naruto en masse. Hachibi tells Naruto they need to retreat but before they can the Five-Tailed Demon Whale-Horse injures the Hachibi badly and Tobi has Naruto down and is about to do something dastardly to him when Kakashi and Might Gai arrive to counter-attack Tobi. This alone made the chapter go from bad to semi-decent; as I always enjoy seeing Kakashi and Gai kick some ass.
#567 – Oh God, here it comes, Sasuke enters the war. Then we switch to a useless scene of Suigetsu and Juugo walking through a forest wondering what to do? They decide to checkout one of Orochimaru's former bases, whatever. The story then switches back to Naruto, KB, Kakashi, and Gai and for some inexplicable reason the ET-controlled Five-Tails attempts to attack Tobi before he's subdued by him. The Kyuubi and the Hachibi then start arguing by telepathy in a humorous scene. Then Gai and Kakashi cut loose with some killer attacks on the five remaining ET-Jinchuuriki. Kakashi quickly deduces that the ET-Jinchuuriki can't use any of the Pein attacks because Tobi knows they've developed strategies to combat those attacks and can't afford to waste the chakra as controlling the ET-Jinchuuriki is taking up a lot of his eye-power. Suddenly all the ET-Jinchuuriki blow-up into their gigantic forms and take it to everyone. The chapter ends with Naruto desperately trying to keep the Four-Tailed Demon-Ape Yonbi from eating him. Then we get the cliffhanger of is the Kyuubi going to allow that to happen? This is by far in my opinion the best of the chapters the past few weeks.
Yes, I'm still thoroughly disgusted that Kishimoto hasn't done anything yet with Hinata's confession to Naruto now reaching 130 freaking issues!
Now I'd like to give a shout out to a couple of stories of quality work that I recommend. I urge all of you to check-out these fine works when you have the time.
Recommendations:
"The Fox's Shadow" by ICHeart: I normally don't give recommendations on stories that are only two chapters old. My reasoning is that the story is still in its infancy so to speak and you really don't know how it will be once more chapters are posted. However, I'm going to make an exception on this story, as it already appears to me to have all the earmarks of something really good. I don't want to give-away the storyline, but it is very original and creative and the author does an excellent job with all the characters personalities and how they interact with one another. So if you're looking for something fresh and different in a Naruto story, then this is one you should checkout.
ThaDoctor17: This is actually an author that I'm recommending solely on the basis that he is the King of the Naruto/Hinata one-shot. He's written several of them and though I haven't read all of them, of the ones I have, I've yet to come across a bad one. So if you're looking for a quick and easy Naruto/Hinata one-shot to read sometime, then check this author and his stories out.
Now please be kind and leave precious valuable reviews on these stories.
As always, if anyone wants to discuss my story in greater detail, just shoot me a PM. I enjoy talking about the story with any readers who really have an interest in it. I'll try to respond back to you as quickly as I can.
I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Take it easy and be good!
Kingkakashi
School Time:
Epiphany
Definition: A sudden realization or intuitive perception of insight into the reality or essential meaning of something.
Etymology: Greek to Latin to Middle English 1275-1325a.d.
Part of Speech: Noun