Chapter Five: The Raikage
The land of Iron fit the name.
It was a harsh, frozen land covered in a thick blanket of snow. As the party walked along the road, Naruto shivered a bit, then looked to Danzo. "So this is the Land of Iron, huh?"
"Yes," said Danzo. "It is a land ruled by samurai. When the Feudal Lords began to replace samurai, the Land of Iron offered shelter. In return, the samurai pledged their swords to the service of the Land of Iron.
"We should move quickly. No one as of yet has attacked us, but I am not without enemies."
"Neji, do you see anything?" asked Sakura. Neji was at the front, taking point.
"...The Raikage's party," said Neji, voice cold.
"What, where?" asked Naruto, peering into the distance to try and see. Then again, it probably wasn't in sight.
"They appear to be staying at a village," said Neji.
"This could be our chance, Naruto. We should go to meet him," said Sakura.
"I am not sure it is wise to have a diplomatic run-in before the Summit," said Danzo. "Although, I cannot see the harm in an unofficial meeting. By all means, finish your business. But be certain no incidents come of them."
They nodded and headed for the village. It turned out to be a small place, make of heavy stood and stone. Smoke was rising out of the chimneys in the distance, but Neji checked his pace. "Naruto, there is something you should know."
"What is it?" asked Naruto.
"Lord Danzo has a Sharingan," said Neji.
"What?" said Naruto. "How do you know that? Why didn't you say anything earlier?"
"The bandages are lined with a material designed to block my sight," said Neji. "However, peering at him from the right angle let me bypass them. It appears the material is just thin enough to emit light."
"What is Lord Danzo doing with a Sharingan, Neji?" asked Sakura, sounding concerned.
"I do not know," said Neji. "But it would be unwise to speak to him about it. Even so, it is possible he may attempt to sway the other leaders."
"What?" said Naruto. "But we can't let him do that. It'll totally backfire. People will notice them acting out of character."
"Perhaps, but it would be unwise to attempt it by speaking directly to Lord Danzo," said Neji. "Our alliance with him is shaky and could break."
"Well what can we do now?" asked Naruto.
"Well... I have a bit of an idea," said Sakura.
"What is it?" asked Naruto.
"Ino taught me something once. If you want to talk to someone about an inconvenient subject, you don't bring it up right away," said Sakura. "Instead, you bring up something that will make them think of it and use them to make a point."
"You mean to say that I should scan the other Kage to see if I can find something that could detect his Sharingan?" asked Neji, seeming to like the idea.
"Then we mention it to him as a warning, and he won't use it," realized Naruto. "Good thinking, Sakura."
"Perhaps, but I would say it is your moment in the spotlight now, Naruto," noted Neji. "You and Sakura should stay here. The Raikage has noticed us now, and it would not be wise to approach him in large numbers.
"He might take it as an attack."
"Then what should we do?" asked Naruto, stopping.
Neji stretched. "I will go forward and request you be granted an audience. One person will be found less threatening. Since Sakura is our medical ninja, she cannot be sent forward.
"I have a better chance of surviving if things turn ugly anyway."
"Right, good luck," said Sakura.
They were near the village now, and Neji moved forward. He did not get far, however, before the Raikage and his men appeared. Samui, Karui, and Omoi were among them, while the Raikage stood at the front. He was huge and clad in white with long blonde hair.
"What is the meaning of this, Hyuga?" he asked.
"Greetings to you, Raikage," said Neji. "I am Neji Hyuga. I am here on behalf of Naruto Uzumaki, the Hero of the Leaf Village. He begs an audience with you in order to clarify certain matters on behalf of acting Hokage Danzo."
"You mean that psychopath? Raikage, you can't go anywhere near him," said Karui.
"Easy, Karui," said Samui. "He only responded after you beat him to a bloody pulp, remember?"
"But still, what if he's secretly the mastermind behind the Akatsuki?" asked Omoi. "And like, his dark half-given physical form is actually pulling all the strings. All to give him what he wants without any-"
"Will you quit with the conspiracy theories, Omoi!" said Karui.
"Enough," said the Raikage, looking to a dark-skinned, blonde man. "Darui, you're with me."
Neji led the Raikage back to Naruto, who halted. The Raikage came before them, and Naruto focused himself. "My subordinates claim you withstood an hour of physical abuse. Then you crushed them easily, Naruto Uzumaki. I am also informed that you killed the leader of the Akatsuki, Pain.
"So, what was it you wanted to speak to me about?"
Naruto thought about how best to say this? "...This is kind of awkward, and I don't really comfortable saying it, but I made a promise, so I have to do it. I'd like for you to let me put Sasuke in prison instead of killing him."
There had to be some kind of consequences for what Sasuke did. If he'd killed one of the Konoha 12, Naruto would want him to suffer consequences. Those ninjas he'd killed had been someone else's friends and loved ones.
"Unacceptable," said the Raikage. "He has sided with the Akatsuki and may have already killed my brother. The Cloud does not tolerate it's own being hurt."
"Yes, I read the report," said Naruto with a sigh. This was hopeless, but he had to try anyway. "Ordinarily, I wouldn't be here. I'm acting on behalf of a close friend of mine who loved him. And, also on some more... iffy motivations.
"See, Sasuke is the last Uchiha. Now that Itachi is dead, he's our only hope of continuing the bloodline. That's why we've been so reluctant to label him a traitor. If we kill him, the Leaf loses the Uchiha forever."
It wasn't an important reason to Naruto, of course. But it might be a better reason in the eyes of the Raikage. But he scowled. "I do not see how that is my problem."
"It's not," admitted Naruto. "But... well...
"Neji, could you explain the situation to them. You're the one who was most affected."
"You, Raikage, murdered my Father," said Neji simply. "His name was Hizashi Hyuga. You sent a kidnapper under the guise of an envoy to kidnap my cousin, Hinata. While he was trying to escape, he was caught red-handed and justly killed.
"However, you had earlier done an arms buildup in violation of your earlier treaties. The other nations were unprepared for war.
"So you felt strong enough to threaten all-out war if you were not appeased. You demanded my Uncle, Hiashi, be sent to you so you could take his Byakugan. Instead, the Hyuga Clan sent Hizashi Hyuga in his place.
"I was orphaned because of you.
"Were your actions just?"
"The Shinobi World is ruled by strength," said the Raikage.
"But were your actions just?" asked Neji.
"I don't have to justify myself to you," said the Raikage.
"But were your actions just?" repeated Neji.
The Raikage seemed like he was about to flare up. "...No. Not in a strictly moral sense. Though I expect the Leaf would do exactly the same."
"That's our problem, Raikage," said Naruto. "No one in the Leaf has forgiven or forgotten the Hyuga Affair. Maybe Sasuke deserves to die for what he has done; I wasn't there, I don't know. But I do know that if you threaten the Leaf into giving up the Uchiha bloodline...
"We're not going to be pushed any further.
"It won't matter if Sasuke deserves what is happening to him. You can only push someone so far before they push back. And if we do that, the Sand Village will fight with us. Gaara and I are good friends. So pretty soon, other villages will get drawn into the fighting.
"And once that happens, the terrorist groups and criminal organizations will take advantage. We'll have a whole Fourth Shinobi World War, and everyone will lose that, even if they win."
The Raikage considered things. "And what do you suggest as an alternative?"
"The Akatsuki are after the Jinchuuriki, Raikage," said Naruto. "And we've taken out most of their heavy hitters. Sasuke is one of their only agents, and we've got a vendetta.
"They'll come after me next.
"When they do, let me handle Sasuke. I'll take him down and make sure the Leaf tries him fairly. You can send witnesses.
"Sasuke is my responsibility. And I'll repay him for what he's done if I have to."
The Raikage seemed to consider it. Finally, he nodded. "...Alright then, Naruto Uzumaki.
"If you can take care of Sasuke Uchiha, I'll consider letting the Leaf handle his punishment. But if I let this pass, the Leaf has to do the same for the Hyuga Affair. As far as I'm concerned, the two actions cancel eachother out."
"I can't speak for the Hyuga, but I can bring your offer to the Hokage," said Naruto.
"Do so," said the Raikage.
"Thank you, Raikage," said Naruto, bowing.
"Oh, and, if the Uchiha attacks us again, we will kill him," said the Raikage. "I'll give you the chance to recapture him, but I will not weaken my village for the sake of your friendship."
"Well, I guess that's about as good as I'm going to get," said Naruto. "We won't bother you any further. Let's go, guys."
"Oh, and Neji Hyuga," said the Raikage.
"What is it?" asked Neji, eyes narrowed.
"Your father was a brave man. He died well, as befits a ninja," said the Raikage. "You should be proud to be of such blood."
Neji seemed to consider his action, and hatred coursed across his face. But he mastered himself. "...You have my thanks. Farewell."
And they left.
Neji had just thanked his Father's killer. "That must have been hard to say, Neji," said Sakura.
"Yes," said Neji.
"Did you really forgive him that easily?" asked Naruto, doubting it.
"Of course, I have not forgiven him," said Neji. "My Father is dead, and even if I want to move on and forgive, it is not that simple. According to the old laws, blood calls out for blood. However, I would call this a start.
"The Leaf has done... questionable things as well, after all. If we are to pass judgment on everyone who has wronged us, Pain would be the hero of this story."
They caught up to Danzo soon. On the way, Naruto began to think over events, and he wondered if Sasuke would ever actually be back. Even if he came back willingly, Naruto couldn't imagine things being the same.
At some point, a line of sorts had been crossed. Even if he stepped back across it, the line would still have been crossed.
"Hokage! We're back!" said Naruto, catching up to Danzo.
"I see," said Danzo. "Was your mission successful?"
"The Raikage has agreed to let us handle Sasuke Uchiha's punishment. He won't make any more problems about it," said Naruto. "At least as long as Sasuke doesn't attack him again. But in exchange, he wants to put the Hyuga Affair behind us."
"That?" asked Danzo. "Well, assuming the clans agree, it will be a small price to pay to keep the Uchiha bloodline. You are all to be commended for this. I begin to see why it was that Princess Tsunade gave you such free reign. You seem to have a talent for finding opportunities."
"Well, I've got good instincts," said Naruto.
They soon came within sight of the meeting ground. It was a vast, circular building and well defended. Danzo halted. "I want you three to remain here, however. I would prefer to handle the negotiations personally. This sort of situation is not one that calls for sudden outbursts."
"Well, you're the boss," said Naruto.
"First, however, Neji Hyuga, I have a task for you," said Danzo. "The Mist Ninja should be coming over that way. I want you to scan them with your Byakugan, as well as any other parties you can reach. We must know if they are planning any treachery."
"Understood," said Neji, and he rushed off to do so.
"Naruto Uzumaki?" asked Danzo.
"Yes?" asked Naruto.
"I would prefer it if you found the Kazekage. Convince him to take our side in whatever arrangement is made," said Danzo. "The Leaf Village and it's allies must stand united."
"Gotcha!" said Naruto. "I'll talk to him right away."
Creating some shadow clones, he sent them out in every direction to look for Gaara. As he did, Danzo paused. "One more thing. I do not want you or your companions at the Hokage Summit."
"Why not?" asked Naruto.
"Suffice to say that my present guards are more than enough," said Danzo. "And these negotiations must be handled with care. It would not due to have any incidents."
"So you're afraid I'll screw everything up by saying what I'm thinking?" asked Naruto.
"Put simply, yes," said Danzo.
"Alright, I guess we'll hang out here after meeting up with Gaara," said Naruto.
"Thank you," said Danzo.
Neji narrowed his eyes and looked up. "Lord Danzo, I have found something that may be of interest to you."
"What is it, Neji?" asked Danzo.
"One of the Kage's bodyguards had a Byakugan," said Neji. "He wears an eyepatch over it with a lead lining, but I was able to spot it by peering through the back of his skull. So long as they have it, it will be impossible to use any kind of jutsu via subterfuge."
"I see," said Danzo thoughtfully. "The loss of a Byakugan is a serious failure on my part. One of the few times it slipped me by. Even so, we must put such grudges behind us for the moment and focus on the business at hand. I shall enter alongside my subordinates.
"Tell me, did they perceive you?"
"Not to my knowledge," said Neji.
"Well done then," said Danzo. "You are to guard Naruto Uzumaki alongside Sakura Haruno. Under no circumstances is he to fall into enemy hands. Under no circumstances must the nine-tails fall to them.
"Far too much is at stake to sacrifice for one life."
And he and his men moved off.
"...You know, that guy is pretty hardcore," said Naruto.
"He is the head of the Root Foundation, Naruto. He has to be," said Sakura.
"Is there any news from the other squads we brought with us?" asked Neji.
"Well, the shadow clone I put with them hasn't come back yet. So probably nothing," said Naruto. "Let's go find Gaara; I want to see how he's doing."
Things had gotten interesting.
Neji was able to find Gaara soon enough. They ran into them on a path where they were walking, and Naruto ran toward his friends as he did. "Hey! Gaara! Temari! Kankuro!"
"Naruto?" asked Temari. "What are you doing here?"
"We're sort of acting as an escort for Lord Danzo," said Naruto. "He's acting Hokage right now; I figured I'd go with him to make sure nothing went wrong."
"I had hoped when I heard the news that you would be made Hokage," noted Gaara.
"No luck," said Naruto. "Guess it'll take me a while to catch up to you, Gaara.
"Still, I've got a lot to learn, and I think Danzo could help with that."
"Being a leader is difficult, at times. I am glad you will not have to embrace it all at once," said Gaara. "My own experience might have been quite short, were it not for those who aided me."
"Still..." said Kankuro. "Danzo has a poor reputation among the Hidden Villages. Are you sure you can count on him?"
"We're not really in a position where we can afford to not count on eachother," said Naruto. "And, seeing as I'm the village hero, I don't think I'll have a problem if I don't give him a reason to start trouble, which is kind of why I'm here.
"Danzo is hoping I can manipulate you guys into taking his side in... whatever it is you discuss in there. I'm not actually going to be at the meeting, though; he wants me out here."
"Are you asking us to side with him?" asked Temari.
"Well, I guess that depends on what he's asking you to do," said Naruto. "If he wants you to vote for him to take a leadership position in whatever alliance happens, sure. The only alternative is the Cloud, and I'm not sure I want those guys getting any more powerful. If he demands the world submit to him and become his slaves...
"Use your own judgment.
"Look, just vote however you think is right. And if that happens to be on the side of the Leaf, you'd be doing me a huge favor."
"Not much for negotiation, are you, Naruto?" laughed Temari.
"It's worked pretty well so far," said Naruto.
"Wise words," said Gaara. "Very well, we shall stay true to the Leaf, barring any truly outrageous demands."
"There's one other thing. Something you ought to know about Danzo," said Naruto.
"Naruto, are you sure about this?" asked Neji, a warning in his voice.
"They're our friends, and they're at risk, Neji. They need to know," said Naruto.
"What is it?" asked Gaara.
"Danzo has a Sharingan under his eyepatch," said Naruto. "We're pretty sure he isn't going to use it in this meeting since the Mist Village has a Byakugan, and he knows it. But if you ever have a meeting with him, maybe take precautions. Don't make eye contact; wear some sunglasses."
"Naruto, sunglasses aren't going to stop the Sharingan," said Neji.
"Actually, they might, if they phase out the particular kind of light," noted Sakura. "Lead linings can counter the Byakugan, after all. So it's not impossible that certain lenses wouldn't help."
"Good thinking Sakura," said Naruto. "See if you can make one of those when you get the chance. Oh, by the way, we might need your help if Danzo brings up the Mist Village having a Byakugan."
"How did the Mist get a Byakugan?" asked Temari.
"I have no idea," said Naruto. "But, I do know that Danzo had a major Mist Jonin assassinated a while ago. So that might have been retribution for losing it."
"You seem different, Naruto," said Gaara. "More balanced in nature."
"Everybody keeps saying that," said Naruto. "I think I came to realize that I had a lot of hatred in my heart I was refusing to acknowledge. It was holding me back. But now, I have seen it within me, and I can channel it to help others."
"Such a thing is worthy of praise," said Gaara. "But we must depart."
"No worries, don't let me stop you," said Naruto.
Then they parted ways.
But Neji was increasingly distant, and Naruto saw why.
"Neji, you alright?" asked Sakura.
"I wonder if it might be possible to retrieve the Byakugan somehow," noted Neji.
"Do you really care that much?" asked Naruto. "It's just a power."
"I do," said Neji. "The Byakugan is sacred to my clan. To have it stolen from us is the worst sacrilege. The Uchiha regard their eyes as a source of power. But to us, our Byakugan is a gift from the gods.
"That is why the Caged Bird Seal was created.
"I do not think Hiashi will let the matter stand once I tell him of this."
"Right, and I'm guessing you have to tell him," said Naruto.
"I have an obligation to my family," said Neji. "No matter how much of a grievance I have, the bonds of blood are important."
"I wouldn't know," admitted Naruto.
And then the masked man from before appeared before them on the path. And in his eye gleamed a Sharingan. "Naruto Uzumaki?"
"You," said Naruto.
"We need to talk," said the masked man.
Well, this was going to be interesting, at least.