Sarutobi Hiruzen sat at his desk, taking pulls from his pipe. He was distressed by the information he was given; both Jiraiya and Orochimaru had finally given him everything they'd known about the Akatsuki and all the information provided lead to one conclusion. He wasn't the conclusion he wanted. This was supposed to be different. Hadn't he done this enough? Given enough? Lost enough? Was he really supposed to work himself up for this one more time? Was this a divine punishment for not faithfully living up to his ideals? For his past misdeeds? He was supposed to give the new generation something better? Maybe he still could.
He tried to reason his way out of it, he tried to think of an alternative but stopped. That is what had gotten him into this mess, always looking for the soft option when sometimes problems required more. But there was so much to do and he'd have to risk the ire of the Daimyo but it was necessary. Two letters were sent, one to Daimyo justifying his need to stay in the chair a little longer. The other, to Rasa. The support of Suna would be most helpful but if he declined, Hiruzen would have to make due. The course was set, allowing this Akatsuki free reign to do whatever they wished would be foolish especially as he bore some responsibility for its rise. Orochimaru savored every poisonous word as she relayed how his refusal to neutralize Danzo led to another enemy with a grudge against Konoha. But this wasn't the time for guilt. He'd given himself and therefore his forces six months to get where they needed to be. After that, they were going to war with Akatsuki and Ame.
Even saying it, war, felt heavy. It was acknowledging you'd be sending some segment of your forces to their deaths, you had done so before the first order was given. But this organization with its unknown agenda, outside of collecting the bijuu, was too dangerous to allow to move through the shadows. He'd have to get Tsunade training more medical ninja, he wouldn't ignore the worth of that advice again. He'd have Jiraiya sure up his spy network, especially now that he didn't have to split his focus between Oto and the Akatsuki. Hiruzen wanted every bit of information they could get. So many plans, so much preparation. His village had gotten soft, too comfortable with the peace they'd enjoyed. In many ways, the village reflected his own decline. A decline thrown into sharp relief when he considers Orochimaru. She's had him beat every step of the way. He's been outplayed so thoroughly, it was over before he realized a game was afoot. But this last order, this is what she truly wanted. She put him in a corner and he had only one viable option. Jiraiya could train him eventually but she was right, their skills didn't compliment each other outside of a shared interest in fuinjutsu. He hoped he wasn't damning a boy he saw as a grandson, and one that used to see him as a surrogate grandfather. He hoped that not even Orochimaru's taint would be enough to darken his soul but this was necessary and shinobi endured so Naruto would have to endure this.
Request for Apprenticeship by Orochimaru of the Sannin; named Apprentice Naruto Uzumaki approved by Sarutobi Hiruzen, Sandaime Hokage
He wasn't in any extreme pain. Some discomfort but he could manage that. A part of him hated he wound up back here, once again taken down in two strikes by a vastly superior opponent but he was alive and had not been impaled, or shaven. He even has another legendary sword! So, all in all, a banner day for one Naruto Uzumaki. He's done a shinobi's work and deserves a shinobi's rest. The unwanted, uninvited and inconsiderate guess in his room doesn't share this opinion, he doesn't share it at all.
"How did you do it? I need to know."
"I heard you the first time, Uchiha-san. I'm sorry my convalescence has delayed my response time to your queries. How I did it is simple, neither he nor his partner took me the least be seriously and I was able to delay them long enough for the freaking Sannin to arrive. So, I guess the real answer is the same one you got from the start."
"Why would he care about you? What's so special about you?"
"I'm sure the 'no offense' part of that is implied. And in response, it doesn't matter. I don't have anything more to say on the matter so if you would please leave my room, I'd appreciate it."
Sasuke realized he was being a pest, the redhead wasn't in the hospital for fun. He could have come back another time or went to someone else but his need for revenge fueled the small bit of jealousy he felt for the Uzumaki. Itachi had told him he wasn't worth killing but this kid, same age as him is? Why, what made him worthy? In a moment of pique and childishness Sasuke did something that was beneath him and even he'd admit was jerk-ish, he grabbed Naruto by what should be the collar of his shirt as he was still wearing his face mask and demanded Naruto answer his unasked questions.
The villagers never beat Naruto. Never chased in, there were no mobs to duck on his birthday. As such, he developed a sense that even they thought physical violence was a bridge too far. That wasn't the case, it's just that attempts of physical violence resulted in immediate execution and that was one of the few things HIruzen was intractable on. Because of this, Naruto developed a rule, more subconscious than anything. If they never touched him, never vandalized his stuff he'd just ignore them. He might dislike them but he would ignore them. But no one puts their hands on him without response. He would meet violence with violence and not apologize for it. He didn't even bother to make Sasuke release his shirt, it wouldn't matter and three hand signs performed faster than an eye blink he demonstrated why as his once languid hair were now crimson spikes long enough to impale the wall adjacent from his bed. However, there was no Uchiha stuck to the wall.
"Mah, mah, Naruto-kun, that was a tad strong, wasn't it?" Kakashi said holding his wide eyed student, quickly coming to terms with how close to death he'd been. He wanted to glare at the redhead but the look in the Uzumaki's eyes dared him to.
"He shouldn't have put his hands on me." Naruto said, ending his jutsu and his hair returning to its natural state.
"Hai, he should not have but surely the penalty for such an offense isn't death? Just break a leg next time." Kakashi replied with an eye smile and Naruto nodded. Sasuke grew concerned as he wasn't sure if either party was joking or not.
"WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED IN HERE!"
"Aww, please no yelling, Tsunade-obachan."
"Then tell me why there are two holes in the wall that weren't there when I left?"
"Sasuke and Naruto had a bit of a misunderstand, Tsunade-sama. I take full responsibility and will be disciplining my student for his outbursts." Kakashi said, pulling Sasuke away. He didn't want to be around an angry Tsunade. As the members of Team 7 departed, Tsunade ran a quick diagnostic over Naruto and was satisfied with his recovery but wouldn't let him leave. She was amazed when he didn't complain just asked if there was a soft light available so he could read, which she had the support staff provide and left him to his devices.
He was on his knees gasping for air. His training session hadn't gone well. His timing was off. His balance was shot. He used to move with grace, now he plods. He has to fight his instincts, them telling him to use a hand that is no longer there. The phantom pains are still there and in his dreams he remembers the sensation. It haunts him be he conscious or not. In moments so much had been taken from him. Word had come that the Daimyo ordered the end of the Cage Bird Seal, the branch family was going to be free and had the option to form their own clan in restitution to the generations of oppression. Neji should be happy but he can't stop himself from thinking their freedom was bought with his arm and he doesn't know if it was worth the price. He's free but he is also less. He once was a servant but he was strong, capable. More than capable, prodigious. His potential limitless, so he imagined, but now he's broken. So while his fellow branch members cheer and the main family speak empty words about relocation, Neji trains. He trains and trains and trains. And she watches.
He can feel her eyes on him. Every moment, every twitch. Nothing escapes her gaze, her eyes sharper than most give her credit for. He hates her eyes, eyes that presume to watch him in such close detail. Picking apart his every flaw, laying him completely bare to her judgment. How dare someone weak possess such eyes? Eyes that look through him when he informed her of her fate? Eyes that deem him lesser. Eyes of the entitled, of the blessed, the chosen that can't bear the burden of luxury? Minimal expectation and she falters, always seeking to break from tradition when tradition keeps the Hyuuga strong. She's a failure. And he hates her. He'd have his father if not for her. His father would be free if not for her. She takes and takes and takes from him. Her lack of talent as great as his genius; the two an inverse. Both cannot rise, what harms one benefits the other. She was strengthened by his injury. Was the Uzumaki her agent? Sent to avenge her loss because she was too weak to do it herself. It must be, why else would he be so brutal to a complete stranger? She set this in motion. She watches him now to see her master work, to see the fruits of her labor; his struggle.
'That bitch!' "STOP WATCHING ME!". His breathing has become even more ragged. He can't take it anymore.
"Even injured you are still quiet the genius, nii-san." she said evenly.
"What does that mean? Are you mocking me?"
"Why would I mock you? We are family."
"The end of the seal does not make us family. You and I can never be family. So enjoy your momentary victory because it won't last."
"I take no pleasure in your disability. Watching you struggle holds no entertainment for me. I'm not what you say I am."
"You are, it was decided by fate."
"Then fate was always going to take your arm and if I found it amusing that too would be fate. You should have no feelings on the matter, correct? It is all predestined." Neji does not speak, he cannot craft a retort and Hinata takes that as her cue to leave. She did not lie. Seeing Neji hurt held no pleasure for her. What pleasure could you take of watching someone live on in injury when you sincerely wished them dead?
Her plans were coming together much faster than she'd ever anticipated. She knew with the information she had the Akatsuki the old fool would feel the need to be proactive, he hadn't lost all of his instincts but she assumed he'd be too soft to lead the charge, that he'd delay for a year or two and let his replacement handle it. But this is almost better. He'd have to sit in that chair and live with the disgrace as many of his top Jounin wonder if he's going to war to cling to power; the man of peace himself being considered a warmonger? It was delicious but still didn't bring her the fraction of satisfaction that him assigning Naruto to her did. She assumed she'd get him in the period before Jiraiya went to "prepare" for a training trip, the same he as he did for Minato. But no, he's hers outright. Sarutobi claims it's only for the six months leading to the invasion but that'd be plenty of time to get him ready. She just couldn't wait. Jiraiya's expression when the old monkey made his decision was just icing on an incredibly sweet cake. He could only glare, the one sign of his impotent rage. She would get Naruto ready and with the might of Konoha, vanquish all of their enemies. Then the old monkey can go whither away in irrelevance while she and Naruto-kun continue to break barriers. She couldn't wait. She was heading down the final path to her compound, to see her former apprentice waiting for her.
"You seem happy. Whose soul did you eat today, Sensei?"
"Oh, Anko-chan. You smell of disappointment and sake. Well, you always smell of disappointment."
"Fuck you, bitch."
"You were never really my type."
"So I've heard. Is it the red hair or the prepubescent penis?"
"Such a crass little trollop you turned out to be. And I'd request you not speak of my new apprentice that way."
"God, the Old Man has really given up, hasn't he? To allow you to be the master of anyone is criminal but him? I don't know if I should try to kill you to save him or kill him to save the rest of us." Anko spoke and immediately found a firm hand around her throat and was lifted off the ground.
"Poor, little Anko. She never did know when to shut up. I should really snap your neck right here but that's what you want. One final act to show Sensei cares. Be honest, you were never mad I left, you were mad I left you. How could I? You want to know why? Why I gave you the curse mark and left you in that lab? Because the depths to which you disappointed are hard to articulate. I thought you were someone like me but you weren't. That seal was to maximize your potential, no more and no less. I wanted a student that would accomplish something new, change the shinobi world. You just wanted to please me like some concubine." Orochimaru said, her grasp tightening. "And now you threaten Naruto-kun because I see his value, having nurtured it in a far less direct way than I did with you and yet look at him, at how much he's accomplished because he was willing to do so." Orochimaru finally let Anko go, dropping her to the ground. Anko immediately began to rub her throat, trying to ease the pain.
"People think I want another me, I want someone in my image who thinks like me. Why would I want that? I'm not that egotistical, I don't need a replacement or an heir to some imagined thrown. Unlike most of you unremarkables, I don't want to change Naruto in the slightest. I want him to be the best version of himself, even if that version is my antithesis."
"Yea, right. No one would believe that." Orochimaru smiled, that's what she was counting on.
"He would and he will. He isn't beholden to groupthink and is willing to find things out for himself. But I'll tell you like I told Sarutobi and Jiraiya; Anko, if you interfere with my apprentice or try to influence him in a way I don't like it won't be healthy for you. And if that's too cryptic, I'll be literal. I'll kill you, Anko. Do we have an understanding?" Seeing her former student isn't responding Orochimaru grabs her hair and pulls her head back. "Do we have an understanding, Anko?"
"Hai."
"Good girl. Now, run along and the next time we speak try to be a bit more polite. You're a kunoichi, not a corner girl."
He stares at his charge not knowing what to say. His words fall on deaf ears and he really isn't one to give speeches, it's never been his thing. He's the cool, aloof, genius and really cool type. You're supposed to hang off his every word. But this boy, he's immune to the coolness. It was vexing. It was annoying but before now, it hadn't been dangerous. Sasuke couldn't know Naruto's hard and fast rule or why the boy had it but he needs to learn his emotional outbursts can get him hurt. If that'd been another senior ninja, they may have just snapped his wrist and been done with it but he'd really rather gamble with the health of his student. So now the boy is tied up with ninja wire looking at Kakashi with all the hate his little body can muster but at least he has enough sense not to activate his sharingan or Kakashi might have had to pop him one.
"I know you hate Itachi. I know why. No one can fault you for wanting him dead, for it to be a driving motivator in your life. But these childish temper tantrums? That needs to end, Sasuke. You almost got skewered today because you violated the personal space of the wrong shinobi and had I not been there your revenge would be moot."
"How was I to know he'd react like that?"
"We're trained killers, he was just ambushed by two S rank ninja, if you knew nothing else you should assume he'd be a little worked up having survived what should have been certain death or defeat. Also, he had a concussion, so your shaking and yelling wasn't helping matters. That's just baseline observations even a genin should have been able to make." The boy hung his head in shame. Finally, something got through to him.
"I just needed to know why Itachi thought he was worth it, what made him so special?"
"If you knew then what? What would knowing solve? Shouldn't you just be relieved he is in custody and no one else died to make it happen?"
"I heard he managed to stab him in the back. No Genin nor Chunin should be able to do that."
"Why? He's not invulnerable and he's not a God. And as Naruto mentioned, he was with the Sannin. All of them. Do you think none of them would be able to make Itachi leave a small opening in his defense? He likely wasn't concerned about Naruto at that point and that was his mistake. That's the thing about this profession, Sasuke. It only takes one time to fall into the right trap or fall for the right trick and powerful or not you die."
"Is he well enough to talk?"
"Yes but don't push it. He was lucky Naruto was concussed or the Nuibari would have pierced his heart and killed him instantly."
"I don't exactly feel lucky, Tsunade-sama." Itachi quipped, small smile on his face.
"Shut it, brat. You missed your last check up."
"Being a missing nin doesn't allow for one to keep a consistent schedule especially with the Akatsuki starting their initial play."
"What can you tell me about that, Itachi-kun?" the Sandaime spoke.
"Leader-sama wanted to test the youngest jinchuuriki, assess their threat level since we wouldn't be going after them for a few years."
"Why the delay?"
"The Mizukage died, Sandaime-sama. The Sanbi won't reform for at least three years."
"How long do you think it'd take them to replace you and Kisame?"
"I'm not sure, S rank nuke nin aren't common and they really need to be of that caliber. Maybe a year or year and a half?" Itachi postulated.
"Good, good. Itachi, you return now in a time of upheaval, some of my past indiscretions have come to light so I am not long for the chair but I won't leave the Akatsuki to my replacement. I must once call on your service once again. I believe Maelstrom will need you now more than ever."
"What do you mean?" Asked Itachi. Even Tsunade was confused at what new danger Naruto found himself subjected to.
"Orochimaru has returned, she gamed the Daimyo to make it so and has been five steps ahead of me. She wants Naruto. I don't know why but currently she is the one best suited to raise his skill level quickly. I know my student, she will demand he be subjected to a period of isolation, just her and whoever she may choose to aid in his development. As his master, she has that right. But as a clan heir, one that faced a recent abduction attempt I think he'll need additional security and as Hokage that is my right. It'll be an observe and report assignment just like last time."
"I accept, Hokage-sama. What about Sasuke?"
"I believe you should have the right to decide. Inform him of the truth and I'll do what I can to mend your broken bond. If you wish he stay ignorant I can claim you are in a secure facility or even succumb to your injuries. No one would be too credulous at the idea you fell to the Sannin."
"When would I need to start my watch over Naruto-kun?"
"You'll be on bed rest for at least five more days, no debate." Tsunade stated, brooking no argument.
"Then you'll have your answer no later than that, Sandaime-sama." Accepting his response, the Sandaime and Tsunade leave Itachi's room and head for an exit.
"When this Ame issue is resolved, I want you to replace me."
*Snort* "I bet you do but I vehemently decline."
"Tsunade, please. The village will need strong leadership."
"Then let Jiraiya do it. It's about time he stop playing spy anyway. Hell, he'd take the position to spite Orochimaru."
"That's part of the problem. He'd go out of his way to antagonize her. That would end in disaster, a disaster with Naruto in the middle of it. And with Naruto involved, that is involved as well."
"So, what, you think I'll keep Jiraiya and Orochimaru from killing each other and make sure your jinchuuriki is stable? No. I want nothing to do with this. Also, why would Naruto be in the middle? He doesn't seem aware Jiraiya is his godfather. At this point, Jiraiya is just his father's sensei that half-assed his Chunin finals' training."
"She has something planned for Naruto and Jiraiya won't sit idly by and allow it to happen."
"And I will?"
"No, you won't needlessly antagonize her and since you're his Obachan, if you warn him he'll believe you."
"No, he'll take it under consideration and look for proof. Likely because he's had to learn to rely on himself from an early age. Funny how that works."
"I can't have that fight again, Tsunade. Just, you're the best choice. And maybe with you in the chair this village can get back something its lost under my leadership. You may even inspire Naruto to want to be Hokage again." Sarutobi said, causing Tsunade to glare at him.
"That's more reason not to take the hat. If he gave up on that idiotic dream then all the better, he'll live longer. Maybe have a family and find some happiness."
"Tsunade, just consider it. Until then, you have your medical training program. Get as many medics trained up as you can and start back seriously training yourself."
"Pfft, take your own advice, Old Man. You'll get your damn medics, three decades late. As far as that other thing, don't bank on me accepting. It's enough I'm here and having to deal with this bullshit again."
The next day found Team Kurenai in the Sandaime's office. The ceremony was brief and all were informed that Shikamaru and Shino would become Chunin, making Team Kurenai the first team to promote to Chunin during their first exam since the Sannin. Both boys accepted the vests and new promotion. Both Kurenai and Naruto were happy that the entire team was allowed to succeed together. Hiruzen gave them their moment of merriment before he continued.
"While this is good news, this also signifies a change. While you are allowed to stay together as a team and I'd suggest you do, Naruto will officially be entering into an apprenticeship." Hiruzen said and saw the surprise on all of their faces. "I'm sure Naruto informed you of who attacked him, yes?" Seeing them all nod, he continues, "We have received a great deal of information about this organization and where they are located. This is an A class secret, I'm only telling you because of your connection to Naruto. In six months time we will be invading Ame with the intention of ending the Akatsuki threat. That is why Naruto will be entering into an apprenticeship."
"Hokage-sama, if he is a target, shouldn't he be left out of the invasion?" Kurenai asked, clearly worried about her student.
"If Naruto were some low level Chunin, yes. But he isn't and his combat prowess will be needed. As he is now I'd allow him to go but after our ramp up I'm more than confident he'll be prepared. I've already spoken with your fathers and they have agreed to increase your training as well. You will still take missions but they'll be primarily combat oriented so you have field experience to go with your new skills. This won't be easy nor will it be pleasant but striking the Akatsuki down while we have the element of surprise is the best choice available." Seeing the boys nod in understanding, he continued. "Naruto, your training with Orochimaru begins in a week. She's requested you not take missions and solely focus on her training during that time. She'll collect you from your apartment on the day you start. You will have your nights free so don't lose connection with your team. If you have no questions, you are all dismissed."
The team departed, the newly promoted chunin heading off to their training grounds but Kurenai had somewhere else to go. She could no longer ignore Anko's words as paranoia, she knew Naruto and the Sandaime had a strained relationship but she assumed if Orochimaru did intend him harm, the Hokage could protect him. But he assigned her student to the viper herself. Even as a jounin, there are things she is not aware of and things the Hokage clearly had no intention of telling her. That only made her concern grow more. It didn't help she'd briefly ran into the Sannin while visiting Naruto. Kurenai was a Jounin, a new Jounin but one all the same and even she was slightly cowed by the passive presence of Orochimaru. The woman excluded supreme confidence, as if she always had things in hand and you were always just a toy for her to play with. It was unnerving and Naruto was going to be subjected to that for at least six months. If she could barely stand to be near an alleged ally how would she be able to protect Naruto from the people targeting him? As she currently was, she couldn't. She need to better herself, just as her students would be doing. She needed to expand her skillset, sure up any weaknesses and get creative with what she was good at. She had a lot of work to do but knew there was a generalist, someone who was quite good at everything without being outwardly fantastic at any one thing in particular. She arrived at her destination promptly, knocking on the door more frantically than she intended. Soon, the door was opened and she was greeted by the resident.
"Asuma, I need your help."
He walks with a confident stride and stern visage. It doesn't not reflect his true feelings but as a Hyuuga it is what is expected of him. Expectations, perceptions matter. He wish his eldest daughter would understand that. He wishes a lot about her, mostly that she didn't hate him and her clan. He can see it, anyone who would bother to pay attention to Hinata could but most do not take the time. He does. He knows this is his fault, the coldness and lack of affection he subjected her to soon after her mother passed and she was almost kidnapped it didn't break her but she grew quiet and distant. She tolerates him, Hanabi and everyone else and if it didn't end up with a Cage Bird Seal she'd likely just leave the clan to be free of them. Yes, the byakugan sees all and he sees her desire to be rid of them, her clan is little more than weights she cannot cast off. He does not know how to reach her, her eyes burn with absolute hatred for him and any attempt to mend what is broken between them is rebuffed. He was weak. A weak man that hid behind tradition and a facade to mask his overwhelming grief.
He could have, should have ended the separation between branches. He could have freed his brother but he wanted to be a perfect leader of the Hyuuga, to do what is expected of him. To appear strong but to bow before the forces of habit. It was a paradox. In many ways, Hinata is stronger than him. She actively bristles against tradition and chooses to fight it regardless of her detractors. He should have encouraged it more instead of favoring Hanabi but it was easier with Hanabi. Hanabi's eyes didn't look through him, deeming him unworthy. They didn't silently ask why he was alive when clearly the superior parent and brother both died, leaving this empty shell of a man. Just like he saw Hinata, Hinata saw him and wordlessly let him know she found him wanting at best, his continued existence offensive at worst. She was lost to him as she had no desire to reconcile and no amount of apologizing, which he's never done, could fix it. He'd convinced himself of that so this doctrine of tolerance would continue. A permafrost between parent and child and all because he'd rather look strong than be strong.
But it wasn't his daughter that brought him here but his nephew, the one person he may have wronged even more than Hinata. The boy had lost himself since the Chunin Finals, Not even removing the seal that damned him has been enough to lift his spirits. When he thought himself a slave and had little, Neji had his talent and the regard it earned him. But now? Now, he believes it is all gone and has begun to spin tales of Hinata setting this up. She doesn't deny it, only throwing his belief of fate in his face. He can answer back but it only increases his rage and depression. An invasion is coming, the Sandaime informed all Jounin of this and told them they need to be increasing their training and the training of anyone under their command. Hiashi believed if Neji could participate in this invasion, if he could distinguish himself he'd earn back what he'd lost. But he'd need to fix his arm to do so. He could go to Suna but previous experience has shown their prosthetics and the Gentle Fist don't mix. Instead he opted to come here, to make a deal with the Devil herself.
He was surprised when he arrived at the Manor to be greeted by the Uzumaki. The boy managed to use the proper honorific when greeting him but Hiashi could tell it felt like ash in his mouth. While nothing but potential now, they boy would be powerful one day and that may be a relationship he needs to repair. Just another example of when being a joyless hardass has done more harm than good. The Uzumaki escorted Hiashi to an office and excused himself. Orochimaru arrived moments later, looking incredibly pleased with herself.
"What can I do for you today, Hiashi?"
"My nephew, he needs a replacement for his missing arm and I'm hoping you can help."
"Kukuku, I'm sure I can help Neji-kun with his little problem."
"And what will it cost me? Money is no object."
"Money I have, besides why wouldn't help such a promising shinobi? He is a comrade, afterall. No, no money need be exchanged; however, your gratitude would be invaluable."
"And if I were to be asked to act on this gratitude in the future then it would only be fair?" Hiashi asked but knew he'd walked into her trap. Her pocket was not where he wanted to be, not where his clan needed to be but he would do so for his nephew and handle the consequences later.
"So, we have an accord?" she asked, smile never leaving her face.
"We do."
"Good, I will meet him at the hospital in a week's time. I should have something by then but have his measurements sent to me as soon as possible."
"It will be done. Thank you for your time and your efforts."
"Of course, I love to help."
Naruto stood on the private training grounds panting. He was surrounded by upturned earth, some of it scorched, others with deep grooves carved into it and more still soaking wet. He'd just completed his assessment, demonstrating his skills in nin, gen, and taijutsu and he'd shown most of what he could do. She shrugged it all of as if it were laughably easy. It isn't that he thinks he's on the level of a Sannin but still would like to make his opponent put forth a little effort and not just smile at him as if he were a baby taking his first steps. But as it were, he was tapped out. He'd essentially shown her everything, though there were a few surprises tucked away. Naruto could feel exhaustion oncoming, he probably should already have passed out but bullheaded determination had managed to stave it off. He couldn't tell how she felt about his demonstration, keeping the same neutral expression the entire time and at this point he couldn't care, he needed a nap. Naruto hit the ground with a thud, causing Orochimaru to laugh.
She was quiet happy with his display but annoyed as well. Had he been given proper directly when he graduated and allowed to promote when he earned it he'd likely be further ahead and with more experience. If nothing else, it is experience he needs as much of what he "knows" hadn't become instinctive yet so his transitions to some tactics aren't seamless but she had six months to work out the kinks and expand on his skillset. She saw why he favored his sword, his stature made engaging in taijutsu with anyone older, and therefore larger than him, a chore. His skills were certainly befitting his rank and she could tell he dedicated the time to keeping them polished but he wouldn't see a true leap until his body started to mature. She created a clone and had it take Naruto to his room and then called out Naruto's new shadow. Sarutobi-sensei clearly thought he was clever, his little gambit but he needed to be reminded why she was so ahead of him and how any piece he puts into play can be turned or neutralized.
"Itachi-kun aren't you going to come out and say hello?" she said, after said shadow refused to reveal himself. "So very rude. I'm sure you've heard about Danzo. Such a pathetic end to a once proud shinobi. I am curious, after he ordered you to kill your family, why didn't you ever kill him?" Itachi immediately appeared before her.
"I suggest you drop this topic." he said in his usual monotone.
"Or what? Will you attack me? Chance revealing you're still alive. Poor Sasuke-kun, no family, no revenge; he's so very lost. He may need guidance."
"You will stay away from Sasuke."
"I may and I may not and there isn't a lot you can do about it. Kukuku but back to my question, why didn't you kill Danzo? If someone made me decide between to things I cherished, I may make the decision but I would certainly kill the person who made me do so. Did you even consider it?" she asked and saw no response. He was disciplined but still, she had a feeling she was having an effect. "Or are you unable to act without orders? Another genius that can only follow the path laid before them and what is the result? Your brother, broken and alone with no bonds to speak of while you play guard to someone who doesn't need it because another paranoid old man has made demands of you. Kukuku, so tragic, Itachi-kun." She said nothing else as she entered her manor, leaving Itachi with his thoughts. As much as he'd want to deny it, the Sannin had a point. Danzo was a threat, he should have removed him to insure Sasuke would be safe from his schemes and for stopping Shisui from finding an alternate resolution but he hadn't. He only followed orders and while the village avoided a civil war his brother bore the brunt of his choices. It was hard to accept but it was the truth. Without getting justice with his own hands, Sasuke would find it difficult to move on and that was Itachi's fault, no one else's.
"You know, I enjoy spending time with you. I really do."
"As you should, I'm good company and a beautiful woman."
"I'm twelve but let's go with that. My point is that since I enjoy spending time with you, Shizune and Tonton you don't have to carry me. I'm not going to flee." said Naruto was currently underarm of Tsunade. It was embarrassing, he's a Chunin for crying out loud. After he awoke from his nap, he showered and changed into some civilian clothing, fully prepared to finish his treatise on the battle applications and limitations on the Shunshin no Jutsu, he called it, "The Battle Applications and Limitations on the Shunshin no Jutsu." Until Tsunade stormed and once again abducted him. Shishou just watched and waved, smiling the entire time. He'd pout if it didn't add to Tsunade's amusement and his shame.
"But you need to have an older familial figure embarrass you, it's a rite of passage."
"Oh joy."
"Shush, it isn't that bad."
"The only reason people aren't laughing at me is they think you'll punch them into the sky."
"And I will so you have nothing to complain about, besides we're here." Here was a small bar, apparently he was going to drink his dinner once more. The two settled in, joined by Shizune shortly after their arrival and chatted away between drinks. Naruto could tell something was bothering Tsunade but didn't want to bring down the mood. After a few bottles, she got a faraway look in her eyes and asked Naruto something he had not be expecting.
"Brat, why don't you want to be Hokage anymore? Isn't it against your nindo to give up?"
Naruto paused for a moment, truly surprised by the question. Like so many things in his life, when he'd let go of his dream he just busied himself with training and his work but he can still clearly remember the day he stopped believing it were possible.
"I didn't stop wanting it, I just no longer believed it to be an achievable dream."
"Why?" asked Shizune. He looked sad so it was something he didn't enjoy talking about it but it's better to get these things off your chest.
"When you guys treated me, after I returned and gave my debrief… the Old Man, of course, denied me my promotion. But he had this look in his eyes, pleading with me to understand him, to sympathize with him. He held all the power but he acted as if he were the victim of these large forces outside of his control. I hated him in that moment, sincerely I hated him in his entirety. Before that meeting, I still had some trust and held a sliver of affection for the Old Man; if for no other reason than old time' sake. But he killed it. All the times he told me I'd earn acknowledgement if I just worked hard enough and showed the village my worth. He had no intention of allowing me to do that and if he would hold me back what hope did I have of convincing the rest of these small minded assholes?"
"But that Chunin that was with you after Ishval, he came around." Shizune pointed out.
"True, but neechan there are thousands of shinobi in Konoha. How could I ever possibly work with enough of them to change the opinion of me en masse? The numbers simply didn't work out and beside some catastrophic event or a war, which I'd never wish for, I didn't see another path with the Hokage actively working against me. So, I dedicated myself to improving my skills as a shinobi, inside and outside of combat. I had no name, you know? For what I knew, I didn't come from a clan so it's not like I had some prized lineage." Naruto stopped to chuckle at that. "All I had was the willingness to outwork everyone but when you're shown hard work doesn't matter what's left? Become some fiend like Danzo? Always plotting and scheming in the dark? That's not me, instead I decided I'd be the strongest ninja in the village. One no one could ignore, even if I never was named Hokage I'd make the sitting Hokage look like an alsoran in comparison."
Tsunade laughed, it sounded like something Kushina would say and it was good to have a reminder that while often serious, his spirit hadn't been broken.
"Why did you ask?"
"Sensei told me you used to want to be Hokage, I was just curious. You know, I've lost a lot of people to that dream. So many I came to despise the position. Irrational? Probably but I just did. A selfish part of me was relieved when he said you'd given up, I wouldn't have to lose you as well but if being Hokage is what you truly want, you shouldn't let Sensei be the reason you no longer believe it possible. He won't be Hokage forever and of all the people he's considered, none would intentionally hold you back."
"I guess. I just haven't thought about it in awhile."
"Think about it, or don't. Ultimately, it's up to you but don't like that old bastard be the reason you don't try. Don't give him that power."
"I'll consider it."
The mood lightened after that and the trio continued to enjoy the night. Unbeknownst to them, Jiraiya had returned to the village. When Sarutobi-sense informed him Naruto would be apprenticed under Orochimaru he was furious at Hiruzen giving Naruto to Orochimaru for any period of time. He left to collect himself but returned, hoping he could convince his sensei this was a terrible idea. Hiruzen tried to get Jiraiya to accept this, as it was the best option for the time being. No argument could appease the Sannin as he feared what her influence would do to his godson. Jiraiya stormed out of Hiruzen's office in desperate need of a drink. He just so happened to pick the same establishment our trio were occupying. He immediately approached them, happy at the chance to spend time with Tsunade and Naruto, and it was in that order.
"Hey, what are you three doing here?" he asked.
"We were enjoying ourselves, what are you doing here?"
"I just left Sensei's and decided I could use a nightcap. Naruto, I need to warn you-"
"Don't bother. The Sandaime already has, everyone treats her like she's going to eat their children. Maybe she's earned that, maybe not but she's been good to me, minus the stabbing." He said the last part quietly.
"You don't know her like I do, we were on a team together for years. You need to listen to me, Naruto. I only have your best interests in mind."
"That's cool or whatever but I'll be fine. I prefer to judge people for myself and if something feels wrong I'll handle it."
"You can't handle it. This isn't some second rate Kiri swordsman, Naruto. Orochimaru has been at this longer than you've been alive. She could have plans within plots and you'd never know until it was too late. She's twisted, she always has been. Just come on the road with me. I trained your father, I certainly can train you." He ignored Tsunade's scoff and waited for Naruto's reply.
"I don't fight like my father, from what little I know, I'm nothing like him. I just don't think you're the best sensei for me. It really isn't anything personal."
"Not personal? You'd rather be taught by that sick monster than your own godfather and it's not personal?"
"You're my godfather?" Naruto said in genuine surprise and was wondering why his mom hadn't said anything.
"Yes, and I'm sorry I hadn't been there for you. I won't make excuses but give me a chance to make this right. We can go on the road and I can show you more than the snake ever could." Jiraiya said, his old feelings of jealousy flaring up.
"The Old Man isn't pulling me off my team, I can't continue to take missions with them if I left and he said it's important I do that."
"We can take missions, Naruto."
"But I wouldn't be with my team. I need to stay in sync with my team so I have to stay here. Also, the Old Man already decided and I agreed to it. I don't go back on my word."
"This time you do. You have no idea the amount of danger you are in and I can't fathom why Sarutobi-sensei is allowing this. Granted, he was always too soft on his favorite student, literally letting her get away with murder but this is too far. Just pack your things, we'll leave in the morning."
"He already said he isn't leaving, Jiraiya."
"And that's stupid. I'm not going to let him be used by her. You two seem to forget what she's really like, a heartless traitor that cares for no one because she can't. She's a high functioning sociopath and the evilest bitch to ever grace the elemental nations."
Tsunade didn't know why Jiraiya's words were having an effect on her. She's listened to this insipid rant enough to just ignore it but this time she can't. He needs to be made aware of some things and maybe he'll finally shut up.
"Naruto, you mind if I tell you a story? It isn't long."
"We don't have time for this, Tsunade."
"You intruded on us, Jiraiya and I didn't ask you now shut up." she said with an edge to her voice that didn't go unnoticed.
"Sure." Naruto answered.
"There once was a little girl. She lost her parents early in life and it left a lasting scar. She also didn't think like everyone else, morality and social norms around deviance didn't make sense to her. But she was also a genius, so much in fact she attracted the attention of the Hokage to be on his Genin cell along with the Princess of the village and the town jester. Now, the Hokage was considered a great and powerful man who was also incredibly wise. He came to believe in his own wisdom as well, so when he started favoring the genius with more of his attention than the other teammates he was able to justify it to himself but it was simply that her skills and interests most mirrored his own. The village Princess recognized how unfair this was but, at that time, still had family that could supplement her training. The town jester, however, became angry and resentful. He didn't want to be known as a fool any longer and hated being in the shadow of the genius and the Princess. However as is often the case, when little boys become angry at powerful men the boys lash out at weaker targets instead of challenging the powerful man. The jester started to mock the looks of the genius, anytime he felt insecure he'd levy an insult. What the jester hadn't known was not only was the genius sensitive about her looks but she had a bit of a crush on the jester and wanted him to do well. But after his continued insults she grew to despise the jester and mocked him in kind. The jester would always see himself as the true injured party and the genius's later actions would only solidify that in his mind." Jiraiya's face was frozen in shock at Tsunade's stories, a part of him wishing it wasn't remotely true.
"Oh, but there is more to this tale. The team, was poison. The genius hated the jester, the jester hated the genius and both craved the acknowledgment of the wise and powerful old man. The team would manage to stay together, fight many battles and even a war. They were young then, barely in their twenties when they received the titles that would cement them as the most legendary team of ninja to ever exist. The wise and powerful old man was proud of his students and their growth. Each having prodigious skills in various shinobi arts but he took notice of the genius most of all. She had matured into an exotice beauty and with how much she respected and admired the wise and power old man, he found himself desiring her in the way a power man often desires a woman. They began an affair, one where the wise and powerful old man would pull her toward him and push her away. Eventually, the wise and powerful old man decided he needed to end the affair, the fact he was informed she was with his child can be chalked up to mere coincidence for the gullible among us.
The man, fearing what people would say, requested the genius rid herself of the child, pleaded really as he didn't want to lose his real family. Hurt, though she'd never show it, the genius went to the Princess to do just that. Three months later she was now under the charged of a sick, twisted and bitter cripple. It wouldn't be long before the Princess left, having lost the last of her clan. Without her support and with the hatred she felt for the wise and powerful old man that threw her away, the genius indulged fully in her alternative thinking. She no longer felt the need to hold back. Nothing was wrong, everything was permitted and the sick, twisted and bitter cripple loved and encouraged her fall into madness. The end."
