Hello all Storm here with a new chapter! Here we'll be seeing the aftermath of both the invasion and the Sandaime's Funeral, along with the arrival of the Akatsuki, though with the confrontation going very differently than in canon. So, without further ado.
I own nothing
'Sensei hasn't even been dead for a week, and Danzō's already trying to make moves.' Jiraiya thought sourly, as he sat at a long table within the council chambers.
With him were Shikaku Nara, the Jōnin Commander, the Anbu Commander, his sensei's old teammates Koharu, Homura and Danzō, and finally the Fire Daimyo.
Jiraiya knew the reason for the meeting was to decide who would become the next Hokage, and the Sannin just knew Danzō would use this as an attempt to take the position for himself. That didn't surprise Jiraiya, knowing Danzō has wanted to the position of Hokage his entire life, he's just surprised the elder waited two days after the Sandaime's funeral to make a play for it.
He expected Danzō to try in less than a day.
"Tragic, simply tragic. Hiruzen was a good man, and with him gone, we now have to decide who will become the Godaime Hokage. But are there any candidates? Jiraiya, what about you, you were Hiruzen's student and even trained the Yondaime Hokage. Would you be willingly to take up the mantle as Hokage?" Asked the Fire Daimyo, while looking at the Sannin.
"Respectfully Daimyo-sama, I have to refuse. As Konoha's Spymaster, I'm more useful outside the village, than inside as Hokage." Jiraiya replied, along with knowing he wouldn't be a good Hokage, or even really wanted the title.
"Daimyo-sama, I wish to nominate my-" Danzō started, before Shikaku cut him off.
"I nominate Kakashi Hatake as the Godaime Hokage." Said Shikaku, with Jiraiya giving him a small nod, both men agreeing that they couldn't let Danzō become Hokage.
"Oh, the son of the White Fang?" the Daimyo asked, intrigued by the nomination.
"Correct Daimyo-sama. Kakashi is one out strongest Jōnin, and played a vital role in ending the invasion, a few days ago. Not only that, but Kakashi himself was trained by the Yondaime Hokage, and as you said, the Yondaime was trained by Jiraiya, who was in turn trained by the Sandaime." Shikaku explained.
"I'd also like to nominate my teammate, Tsunade Senju. Like me, she was trained by Sarutobi-sensei, along with being the granddaughter of the Shodaime Hokage and grand-niece of the Nidaime Hokage. If anyone is worthy of becoming Hokage, it's Tsunade." Added Jiraiya.
"So, we have the student of the Yondaime and the student of the Sandaime. Hm, both would make fine candidates for the title of the Godaime Hokage." The Daimyo hummed thoughtfully.
"Daimyo-sama, I wish to put forth my own nomination for the title of Hokage. I was Hiruzen's teammate and fought beside him in all three Great Ninja Wars, and worked closely with him, when he was Hokage. I have the experience and knowledge required of the Hokage. While Kakashi Hatake is still young and has no experience as a leader, outside of his time in Anbu and just recently taking a Genin Team, and Tsunade has not set foot in Konoha in over a decade. And with all due respect, it is Tsunade's connection to Hiruzen and Kakashi's connection to a chain of students and senseis, that is the reason they would be unsuited to become Hokage. After all, it was Hiruzen's ideology that has led to this invasion, orchestrated by his own student, Orochimaru." Danzō said, the Fire Daimyo nodding at his words, seeing the elders points.
"Yes I see your points Danzō, but that now leaves us with three candidates for the position of Hokage." Stated the Daimyo.
"I wouldn't be too quick to put Danzō into the position of Hokage, Daimyo-sama. Prior to him going rogue, Orochimaru was originally a part of the Foundation. So, Danzō is just as much to blame for how Orochimaru turned out, as the Sandaime." Koharu said, ignoring Danzō's enraged look at her apparent betrayal.
While she and Homura may agree with Danzō, that they should take a more militant approach in dealing with Konoha's enemies. It doesn't mean they've turned a blind eye to his extremist nature.
Besides, while they may disagree with Hiruzen, on his more diplomatic views. She and Homura won't tolerate Danzō throwing their late teammate under the bus, like that.
Yes, it's true that Hiruzen had committed many mistakes, including not finishing Orochimaru, when he had that chance, all those years ago. However nobody is perfect, and in fact, he ended up fixing said mistake by ensuring that Orochimaru was taken down by him, even if it costed him his own soul in the process. Thus as far as they were concerned, Hiruzen Sarutobi died like any true Hokage would, in the end.
"Yes, I do see your point, Councilor Utatane." Said the Daimyo, taking what she said in consideration.
"If I may Daimyo-sama, there is still the matter of Sunagakure's betrayal and assisting Orochimaru in attacking Konoha." Homura said, with Jiraiya frowning at this, knowing it wouldn't lead to anything good.
"What's there to discuss? Most of their forces are either dead or captured, and like Danzō said, Orochimaru was the mastermind behind the invasion, having tricked Suna into helping him and killed the Kazekage, and he's now dead." Jiraiya argued.
"Perhaps, but Suna was still an allied village, and yet they allied themselves with a Missing-Nin from Konoha and plotted to attack Konoha." Said Koharu.
"And what would you have us do? Attack Sunagakure, that would only cause more conflict, and put the other villages on edge." Said Shikaku, knowing such an action would definitely lead to a Fourth Great Ninja War.
Before anyone could say anything else, Danzō banged his can on the ground, getting everyone's attention.
"Daimyo-sama, it seems the council is at an impasse in regard to what actions should be taken. So, I recommend we bring in someone who should settle the matter of what actions should be taken against Sunagakure." Danzō suggested, with Jiraiya narrowing his eyes at the elder, wondering what he was playing at.
"And who do you suggest Danzō?" Questioned the Daimyo.
"Naruko Uzumaki, the Kyūbi Jinchūriki." Answered Danzō, shocking his fellow elders, along with Jiraiya and Shikaku, as well as the Anbu Commander.
"Oh, Naruko Uzumaki? She's the girl that defeated Shukaku during the Chunin Exam Finals, correct?" the Daimyo said, interested by the suggestion.
"Correct. The girl also played an important role in defeating the attacking forces, turning Suna's Jinchūriki and his siblings to our side, and even assisting Hiruzen in making sure Orochimaru died. Not only that, but as a Jinchūriki herself, Naruko Uzumaki is a vital asset in times of war, and should it be decided, would play a key role in suppressing Sunagakure, with her abilities." Danzō explained, knowing if he couldn't become Hokage, then he could at least make sure Suna is properly punished for their betrayal.
Given what his spies informed of the conversation between Naruko and the Sandaime, after the girl brought down the barrier, she was fully on board with attacking Suna.
"True. Very well, send an Anbu to find Naruko Uzumaki and tell her, her presence is required by Konoha's Council." The Daimyo said, with the Anbu Commander nodding, before sending one of his subordinates to find Naruko.
'I don't know what game you're playing Danzō, but whatever it is, it won't work.' Jiraiya thought, doubting Danzō would get the decision he wanted by bringing Naruko of all people in, given if she's anything like her parents, there's no way Naruko would ever choose to attack another village
What Jiraiya didn't know, was that was exactly what Naruko wanted to do.
*With Naruko*
"Uh, Naruko are you sure we can move in here?" Karin asked, looking at her cousin, as the three Uzumaki stood outside the Senju Clan compound.
"Yes, given I was witnessed using my Chakra Chains, along with you unlocking your own, during the invasion, to restrain Orochimaru before his death, it's now known that I am in fact an Uzumaki, rather than just having been given the name. And given the Uzumaki Clan was a sister clan of the Senju Clan, we are legally allowed to live in the Senju Compound, which also now belongs to us, due to the fact the last Senju has long since left." Naruko explained, with Karin nodding at her reasoning.
Given Naruko's mother, Kushina Uzumaki, was famous for using her own Chakra Chains in battle, with Naruko unlocking her own, no one can deny she's a true Uzumaki. It also helps that Karin unlocked her own Chakra Chains during the invasion, along with her and Tayuya having the trademark red hair.
"At least this place is a lot better than that shitty apartment." Tayuya commented, as they entered the compound, given before Naruko was able to claim the Senju compound as her own, the three were stuck living in Naruko's old apartment.
Which had been cramped enough with just Naruko herself. And after Karin and Tayuya moved in, Naruko knew she definitely needed a bigger place, with her finding the perfect spot in the Senju compound.
The three Uzumaki headed straight for the Clan Head's house, given it was the biggest with plenty of room for them. After picking out their rooms, the three began unpacking their stuff, with Karin and Tayuya having gone out shopping, after Naruko took them in.
'Yes, this is much better than that crappy apartment. Even better, I now have my own training ground to use, as well.' Naruko thought, while also planning to set up security seals around the compound, wanting to make sure no one can simply break in, without getting a very painful surprise.
Naruko was pulled from her thoughts when she heard a knock downstairs, making her raise a brow as to who could be here, or even know she's here.
Curious as to who it could be, Naruko went downstairs, while also preparing to attack, in case it was enemies, Naruko opened the door and raised a brow, when she saw her team, along with Kin.
"What're you four doing here? How did you even know I was here?" Naruko questioned, given she didn't tell anyone she, Karin, and Tayuya would be moving into the Senju compound.
"I saw you coming here yesterday and looking at the Senju compound, and given how I've heard you found another Uzumaki, it wasn't that hard to guess that you were looking for a new place to live. So, we brought you some housewarming gifts." Kakashi said, as they all pulled out some scrolls, and handed them to Naruko.
"Here, I found these Ice Ninjutsu in my clans archives." Sasuke said, having searched through the Uchiha Clans Jutsu archives for more Lightning and Fire Ninjutsu, and came across a couple Ice Ninjutsu that had been copied in the past.
"These are also the Ice Ninjutsu I copied, during a mission I took while in the Anbu." Said Kakashi, handing her the Jutsu he copied, when he went to the Land of Snow.
"I found these Water and Wind Ninjutsu during the month break. Along with this book on Kenjutsu." Sakura said, while giving Naruko the scrolls and book.
"These are some Sound-based Ninjutsu that you might be able to find a use for." Kin said, figuring that they could prove useful for Naruko.
"Thank you, these will definitely prove useful. You can come in, if you want. Karin, Tayuya, we have guests!" Naruko said, while calling out to her cousins.
Nodding in thanks, Team Seven and Kin entered the house. Sasuke smirking lightly at the fact he and Kin, both of them being Uchiha, were inside the Clan Head home of the Senju compound.
Tayuya came downstairs to see these visitors and waved at Kin when she saw her.
"Hey Kin. I'm surprised you're still alive, we heard you died in the Second Exam." Tayuya said, though relieved her friend wasn't actually dead.
"I almost did. I'm only alive because of this." Said Kin, activating her Sharingan, with Tayuya laughing when she saw the Dōjutsu.
"HA! The pedo-snake was so obsessed with those eyes, and he didn't even realize he had them right under his nose, this entire time!" Tayuya said, amused at the fact that Orochimaru had an Uchiha serving him, and didn't even realize it.
Suddenly, Karin came rushing down the stairs and glomped Sasuke, with the Uchiha tensing thinking it was an attack, only to see it was just Karin.
"Sasuke! How are you? What're you doing here? Are you here to see me?" Karin asked, happy and excited to see her savior/crush, while Sakura's eye twitched, as she glared at the Uzumaki.
"WE are here to see our teammate, not seeing you!" Said Sakura, pulling Karin off Sasuke, with the two girls glaring at each other.
"Maybe you are pinkie, but maybe Sasuke wanted to come see me. After all, he did save me, and we worked together during the invasion." Karin said, smirking smugly.
"Well, we have known each other longer, and are actual teammates." Retorted Sakura as they glared at each other.
Before they could argue further, or start fighting, they both shivered as the temperature took a sudden drop, with both girls seeing Naruko smiling darkly at then with an equally dark aura, surrounding her.
"I would suggest that if you two start fighting, take it outside. Because if you fight in my new home and damage it, I'll turn you both into lawn ornaments. Am I clear." Naruko said, looking at them with glowing red eyes, with Sakura and Karin nodding fearfully, causing Naruko's aura to vanish and her eyes to turn back to their normal icy blue color.
"Perfect. Also really, you both fighting over Sasuke is really pointless. Given the fact that polygamy is legal in most Hidden Villages and is even encouraged for those that are the last of their clans." Naruko revealed, surprising the two, while Sasuke glared at her.
"You be quiet!" Sasuke growled, having been informed about that little tidbit by the Sandaime after he became a Genin and wanted to keep it a secret, at least until after he killed Itachi.
He already had to deal with fangirls in the Academy, he didn't want to deal with it even more, if they knew they could all be with him. And Sasuke would prefer focusing on getting stronger to kill Itachi, than having to constantly look over his shoulder, less he be attacked by fangirls.
Unfortunately, the damage was done, with Naruko's smirk showing that she knew exactly what she did.
"Uh, Sasuke you don't have to worry about us telling anyone that. The only person I'd tell would be Ino, anyway." Sakura said, wanting ease his worries of everyone finding out, along with having been trying to repair her friendship with Ino, lately.
"That doesn't exactly fill me with confidence." Stated Sasuke with a deadpan expression, knowing how much of a gossip Ino was.
"Well, I doubt Ino would tell anyone about this. Plus, she was able to keep it a secret that Kin is an Uchiha, even after what Naruko did." Replied Sakura, knowing that while Ino was a gossip queen, she was able to keep a secret.
The Uchiha just "Tsk'd", since he still didn't like the idea of more people knowing about it.
"By the way, how about that sparring match where we don't have to worry about holding back." Naruko suggested, wanting to see just how much stronger Sasuke has gotten during the month break, only for the Uchiha to shake his head.
"Not yet. I plan to learn more Jutsu from my clans archives, first. Since the only new Jutsu I learned is one I can only use on enemies, Kakashi." Sasuke said, while glaring at Kakashi, who pretended not to see it, while looking through his book.
Just then, there was another knock at the door, getting everyone's attention. Going over, Naruko opened the door, raising a brow when she saw an Anbu standing there.
'Tenzo.' Kakashi thought at seeing his former subordinate, when he was the leader of Team Ro in Anbu, while wondering why he was here.
"Naruko Uzumaki, I have been sent to bring before Konoha's council. Please come with me." Tenzo said, with Naruko humming in thought, curious as to what the council wants with her, but having an idea, given the situation.
"Very well, Anbu, let's go." Naruko said, exiting the house, with Tenzo putting a hand on shoulder, before Shunshining away.
*Council Chambers*
Arriving at the Council Chambers, Naruko stood before the council members and Daimyo, while Tenzo returned to his post.
"Ah, Naruko Uzumaki, I've heard a lot about you around the village, both for your actions during the invasion and your battle against Shukaku." Said the Daimyo, with Naruko smiling politely, while giving a short bow.
"Your honor me, Daimyo-sama. But if I may ask, why have I been brought here?" Naruko asked, though she had a feeling that she knew why, but knew she couldn't show just how much she knew.
"You have been brought here at my invitation, Uzumaki. Due to your part in helping end the invasion and making sure Orochimaru died, we wish to hear your thoughts on the situation with Suna, whether we should attack, or not, in retaliation." Danzō said, with Jiraiya grunting quietly, since he still didn't like whatever it was Danzō thought he was planning.
"I would be more than happy to give my own opinion on the matter. On the condition that I'm also be granted a seat on the council." Said Naruko, surprising the council members and the Daimyo.
"And why would we grant a thirteen-year-old girl a seat on the council?" Questioned the Anbu Commander, given while Naruko has proven her strength, she was still young and inexperienced with the politics of the village.
"As I'm sure you all are aware, I am the Kyūbi's Jinchūriki, making me one of the main military assets of Konoha in times of war. It would only make sense that me, and my potential successors as Jinchūriki, would have a say in Konoha's military, rather than simply being treated as an attack dog." Naruko answered, while mentally smirking when she said, "potential successors", implying she'd either one day die, or grow too old to fight anymore.
Neither of which will happen, if Naruko has any say in it. And given the world she lives in, Naruko is sure there's more than one method to gain immortality.
The council couldn't deny Naruko's logic in that, but they were unsure about the idea of her having a seat on the council.
"While that may be, Uzumaki, the matter of your age and inexperience in Konoha's politics leaves much to be desired." Homura said.
"That's nothing a quick trip to the library and a few hundred Shadow Clones won't solve." Naruko answered, making them concede to her point, all of them knowing, or hearing, how Naruko can create Shadow Clones like they're going out of style.
"Very well, those in favor of Naruko Uzumaki being granted a seat on the council?" The Daimyo asked, with all the council members raising their hands, with Jiraiya doing so reluctantly, feeling Naruko is too young to be involved in such affairs.
"Alright, so what is your opinion on the Suna matter, Naruko?" Shikaku asked.
'She'll want to make peace with them, given they've already lost most of their forces, their Jinchūriki, and the Kazekage. That's already punishment enough.' Jiraiya thought, knowing that's what Minato and Kushina would do, though maybe Kushina would still send a message on what would happen if they tried again.
So, Jiraiya knew for a fact that Naruko would never want to atta-
"We should attack them in retaliation." Naruko answered.
'WHAT?!' Jiraiya thought as his eyes widened in shock, while swearing he just heard a record scratch, when he heard Naruko's answer.
The rest of council were also shocked by Naruko's decision, not expecting the formerly hyperactive blonde girl to want to attack Suna. The only one not shocked was Danzō, who believed that would be Naruko's choice, given her change.
"In fact, I believe we shouldn't just attack Suna, we should invade them and utterly crush any chance of it ever happening again." Naruko added.
"You can't be serious! Sunagakure has already suffered enough from this failed invasion, their Jinchūriki and his siblings have defected, most of their forces are either dead or imprisoned, and the Kazekage is dead, as well. And now you want to attack them as well, on top of all that?" Jiraiya questioned, hoping to talk Naruko out of this course of action.
"Why exactly do you believe we should invade Sunagakure?" Said Shikaku, wanting to see if Naruko had an actual reason behind her choice, besides attacking just to attack.
"Simple, like Jiraiya said, Gaara and his siblings have defected from Suna, their forces are either dead or imprisoned, and the Kazekage is dead. Sunagakure is now at the weakest they've been in history, even more so than when the Sandaime Kazekage mysteriously vanished. This gives us the perfect opportunity to show the rest of the world, that Konoha will no longer forgive or reward those that attack us." Naruko answered.
"What do you mean by reward?" Koharu asked, not understanding what Naruko meant by that part.
"Back when the Hidden Villages were first being formed. Takigakure sent one of their Ninja, Kakuzu, to assassinate the Shodaime Hokage. Obviously the attempt failed, given the only one to rival the Shodaime was Madara Uchiha, but the fact remains, Taki still made the attempt to kill the Hokage. And what was the Shodaime's response to this attempt on his life, did he retaliate, punish Takigakure and show he would not hesitate to wipe out his enemies, or those that threatened his village?" Naruko asked rhetorically, while looking at the council and Daimyo.
"The answer, no. No he didn't do any of these things, instead Hashirama gave Takigakure the Nanabi, the third strongest Tailed Beast, practically rewarding them for trying to kill him. This is exactly the same as what is happening now, Sunagakure allied themselves with Orochimaru, a known enemy of Konoha, and plotted to attack, even destroy, the village. If nothing is done in retaliation, what's to stop other villages from thinking they can get away with attacking as well, not having to worry of any retaliation, or perhaps even be rewarded for it, like what Hashirama did with Taki. But if we do attack, then it will show that Konoha is not so forgiving anymore, and that any attacks will be met with equal or greater force." Naruko explained, surprising everyone at her words, before they started thinking them over, with the council soon agreeing with Naruko's words.
Even Jiraiya was agreeing, albeit very reluctantly, as he still didn't want to go through with an attack on Suna.
"That may be true. But what if it has the opposite effect, what if instead of making the other villages hesitate, it makes them join forces and attack out of fear that they'll be attacked, as well. If we attack Suna, it could lead to the Fourth Great Ninja War." Jiraiya countered.
"I highly doubt that would happen, for several reasons. The first being, by now, it's already common knowledge that Suna attacked first, while allied with Oto. So it wouldn't surprise many if we attacked them in retaliation. While the Sandaime Tsuchikage, Ōnoki, is known as the Fence-Sitter, due to his preference to not have Iwa get involved in conflicts that don't concern them, rather preferring to observe and keep an eye on things. Meanwhile, the Yondaime Raikage, A, despite his temperament and brash nature, is the same as Ōnoki and won't get involved, given how his father, the Sandaime Raikage, died in the Third Ninja War. Besides, the compensation that was sent to Kumo also helps ensure they have even less reason to attack." Naruko explained, adding the last part to further prove her point.
It also made the councilors frown at the reminder of the "compensation" they had to give Kumo as payment for both Kurenai and Neji attacking the Kumo Ambassador, Herakuresu. It also didn't help matters, when the latter purposefully attacked Herakuresu, right after he saved both the Hyūga Clan Heiress and Genin Haruno, after the former was almost kidnapped by Kumo Missing-Nin, while the latter was overwhelmed when she was trying to save Hinata.
This resulted in Konoha having to repay Kumo for the attacks on their Ambassador, after he was welcomed under the banner of peace, and even helped fight off the Suna and Oto invaders. With the payments consisting of several Fire Ninjutsu, the secrets of Kakashi Hatake's Chidori and Raikiri, Genjutsu that were exclusively found in Konoha, and the worst part was several sperm samples and eggs taken from members of the Hyūga Clan's Main House. Along with being required to give Kumo copies of scrolls on the Byakugan and Gentle Fist, both Basic and Advanced Jutsu, for their soon to be created branch of the Hyūga Clan.
These were given, due to the fact it was their Genjutsu Mistress and a Hyūga who attacked their Ambassador. The Chidori and Raikiri were just sent, so Kumo would have some Lightning Ninjutsu that weren't native to their village, while the Fire Ninjutsu were to counter people who use Wind Style Ninjutsu. Given Kumo was found in the Land of Lightning, making it home to mostly Lightning Style users, Wind Style Ninjutsu is one of their main weaknesses.
What makes the matter worse, is that they couldn't pull a switch off, like they did before, with Hiashi and Hizashi. As unlike before, Konoha was truly in the wrong, with Kumo having even sent some Ninja to observe the trade-off, to make sure no funny business happened this time.
Safe to say, both Kurenai and Neji weren't very popular among their peers.
"Daimyo-sama, both Naruko and Jiraiya bring up many pros and cons for attacking Suna. But I believe we should decide on who should become the Godaime Hokage first, before making any final decisions regarding Suna." Shikaku said, knowing it'd be best to elect a new Hokage, who would have the final say on the matter.
"Agreed Shikaku, and I believe I have solution for both. Jiraiya, I am charging you with finding Tsunade Senju and bringing her back to the village to become the Godaime Hokage, with it being her decision if we make peace with Suna or go to war with them. However if you cannot convince Tsunade to return, then Danzō will be named Hokage and we will attack Suna in retaliation." Said the Daimyo.
"What about Kakashi?" Jiraiya asked, refusing to let Danzō become Hokage.
"Kakashi, while a skilled and talented Ninja, doesn't have the experience needed to become Hokage. Perhaps in the few years, Kakashi will gain the experience needed to become the Rokudaime Hokage, one day. But for now, Tsunade and Danzō are the candidates for the Godaime Hokage. Now this meeting is adjourned." The Daimyo said, standing up, with the council members nodding with the agreement that was made.
Naruko exited the council chambers with a small smirk on her face, at all but insuring she'll get the chance to attack Suna. Given she doubted Jiraiya will be able to convince Tsunade to return and become Hokage, as what Naruko's heard of the woman preferring to drink and gamble herself to the grave. And if by some miracle she does become Hokage, if only to make sure Danzō doesn't get the title, then she won't care about the matter with Suna, and leave it up to the council to decide.
'Either way, I really get to let loose. I wonder if I'd be able to turn all of Wind Country into a frozen tundra?' Naruko wondered, wanting to see just how far she can push her ice powers.
What better way to show her strength, than bringing winter to the desert.
"Hey kid!" Jiraiya said, walking up to Naruko, getting the Uzumaki's attention.
"What do you want, Jiraiya?" Naruko asked, while mentally scowling at the man's presence.
Given that she learned who her parents were, after merging with Esdeath, Naruko was aware of the fact Jiraiya was her father's teacher and wouldn't be that strange if he also knew her mother. So, it wouldn't be that strange if he was someone her parents trusted to look after her, should something happen to them, and yet Naruko never even saw the guy before.
But personally, Naruko didn't really care if Jiraiya did abandon her, given the rumors she's heard of his reputation as a "Super Pervert" and being the writer of those books Kakashi is always reading. Though Jiraiya did haves something Naruko wanted.
The Key to the Eight Trigrams Seal.
Naruko wanted the Key, not trusting anyone else to have it, besides herself.
Jiraiya raised a brow, sensing some hostility from Naruko, but wasn't sure of the reason for it.
"I was going to ask you to join me on my mission to find Tsunade." Jiraiya said, wanting to bring Naruko along and hopefully convince her that attacking Suna is a bad idea, with Naruko raising a brow.
"And why exactly would I care to find Tsunade? Better question, what would I get out of it?" Questioned Naruko, since while she's assured that she will get to attack Suna, Naruko also didn't feel like hunting down a woman who's basically an overgrown child, especially if she's not getting something worth her time.
"Well, how about this." Said Jiraiya forming a Rasengan in his hand, much to Naruko's intrigue at seeing one of her father's signature Jutsu's, which was based on a Tailed Beast Bomb.
'Oh, the fun I could have with that, if I add my ice to it.' Naruko thought giddily.
But that also wasn't enough to convince her to go.
"Alright I'll go. But in addition to that, I'm also bringing my teammates, Kin, along with my cousins, Tayuya and Karin." Naruko said, knowing the Sannin wanted to try and talk her out of attacking Suna, something that wouldn't happen, but Naruko also wasn't going to take any chances, given Jiraiya is considered a Fuinjutsu Master.
Jiraiya frowned at this, having hope to get Naruko alone and talk to her, but her teammates and cousins being there throws a wrench in that plan. Though Jiraiya will take what he can get at the moment.
"Alright, they can come. But that means we'll have to leave first thing tomorrow morning, since more people are coming, we'll need more time to prepare." Said Jiraiya, hoping Tsunade doesn't have too much of a lead on them.
"I'll be sure to tell them what's happening." Naruko said.
Nodding, Jiraiya Shunshined away to get ready and get a lead on Tsunade's current location.
Once Jiraiya left, Naruko remained where she was, before looking out over the village as a breeze blew past her, the Uzumaki hearing the faint sound of a bell on the wind.
"You sense them." Kyūbi stated, with Naruko nodding.
'Yes, whoever they are, they're powerful. One of them has Chakra levels that are comparable to even Shukaku's, perhaps even surpassing it. And the other, they have more than even Orochimaru and their Chakra, it feels similar to Sasuke's own.' Naruko thought, with the Kyūbi growling in anger, knowing what that meant.
"Itachi Uchiha." Muttered Naruko, grinning savagely at the thought of facing an opponent like him and his unknown partner.
*Later*
Walking through the village, having kept her senses open for those two Chakra signatures, Naruko soon arrived at a Dango stand, where she saw Kakashi, Asuma and Kurenai outside. While just inside, she could sense Itachi and his partner.
"Kakashi. What're you doing here?" Naruko asked, getting the attention of the three Jōnin, along with the two intruders.
"Oh Naruko, hello. I'm just here to pick up something to leave on a grave, along with waiting for Sasuke. What about you, how was the council meeting?" Kakashi asked, seeing Naruko glance to where Itachi and his partner were sitting, showing she knew they were there as well.
"Good, I actually needed to find Sasuke, along with Sakura, Kin, Karin and Tayuya. As for the meeting, it mostly just concerning the situation with Suna and deciding who'll be the next Hokage. That's actually part of the reason I'm looking for the others, they'll be accompanying me and Jiraiya to locate Tsunade Senju to become the Godaime Hokage." Answered Naruko, surprising the Jōnin to hear this, while the intruders were intrigued to hear this, while making mental notes to inform their leader.
"Kakashi, you're early. Are you sick, or something?" Sasuke asked, as he walked up to them, while surprised at seeing that Kakashi was early for once.
"Hey, I show up early…when I feel like it." Said Kakashi, with Naruko and Sasuke giving him looks that showed they didn't believe him.
Though Sasuke tensed slightly and looked into the stand where the two intruders were sitting, only to see they were gone.
"Let's eat somewhere else, I don't have much of a sweet tooth." Said Sasuke, his mood lowering, given he thought he sensed something familiar for a second.
"Hm, is that so." Kakashi stated, before looking at Kurenai and Asuma, the three exchanging nods, as the latter two Shunshined away to deal with the two intruders.
Sasuke glanced at where the two Jōnin were, confused at their sudden disappearance, while seeing Naruko and Kakashi didn't look bothered by it.
"I take it you sensed them." Kakashi said to Naruko, with the Uzumaki nodding.
"Yeah, hard to miss, when one of them has more Chakra than Shukaku and the other has more than Orochimaru. I take it they're here for me." Stated Naruko, with Kakashi glancing at her in surprise.
"How'd you know that?" Kakashi asked, since Naruko shouldn't know about the Akatsuki.
"Lucky guess, I'm pretty popular lately." Answered Naruko with a shrug, plus the fact of what other reason would Itachi Uchiha and his mystery partner could be here for.
"What're you two talking about?" Sasuke questioned, frowning in annoyance at them talking about something only they knew about, apparently.
"Did you sense anything strange, when you showed up?" Naruko asked, ignoring Kakashi's warning look.
"Hn, yeah. But it was nothing. What about it?" Said Sasuke annoyed, since he swore, for a moment, that he sensed Itachi.
"It wasn't nothing. You sensed Itachi and his unknown partner just now. That's why Asuma and Kurenai left, to go confront them." Revealed Naruko, with Sasuke's eyes widening in anger to hear that Itachi had literally been less than five feet away from him, and he didn't even know it.
Before Sasuke could run off to find Itachi, he was stopped by Kakashi.
"Let me go! I'm going after him!" Sasuke said, angry that he was being stopped from getting his revenge.
"And do what? Fight Itachi, someone who was an Anbu Captain, before he was your age? He'd tear you apart with just a look, he'd take out Asuma and Kurenai just as easily. They aren't supposed to fight them to win, but to stall them. And while I'd prefer you not interfering, I know you will, unless I knock you out. So, if we do this, we do it right." Said Kakashi sternly, before summoning his Ninken to go alert Gai and the Anbu.
"Let's go and do exactly as I say. This is will be more dangerous than our encounter with Zabuza ever was." Kakashi warned, with Naruko and Sasuke nodding, the latter doing so reluctantly, having wanted to just confront Itachi on his own.
With that the three ran off to where they could sense Asuma and Kurenai were confronting the intruders, by the river. Once they arrived, they saw Asuma fighting Itachi's partner, a blue skinned man that looked like a shark and wielding a massive sword made of scales. While they saw Kurenai get kicked into the river by Itachi, with the rogue Uchiha appearing behind her.
'Kisame Hoshigaki, the Monster of the Mist, and a member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, just like Zabuza.' Naruko thought, smiling in excitement at facing such an opponent.
"You are skilled in Genjutsu Kurenai; however, I am a master of illusions." Itachi stated, knowing even without his Sharingan, he was one of the best Genjutsu users in the world.
"Maybe, but this is the end of the line for you, Itachi." Said Kakashi, appearing behind Itachi with a kunai aimed at his back, with Itachi glancing at him, before pulling out a kunai of his own and blocking an above strike from Sasuke, who's Sharingan glared hatefully at Itachi.
Asuma, meanwhile, dodged Kisame's sword strikes, not wanting to get hit by Samehada again, before managing to cut Kisame with his Wind-enhanced Trench Knives. Surprised at the sudden injury, Kisame jumped back and went through handsigns.
What he didn't notice, was Naruko also going through handsigns behind him.
"Water Style: Water Shark Bullet Jutsu!"
"Water Style: Water Dragon Jutsu!"
A shark and dragon made of water shot out of the river colliding against each other, canceling each other out.
"Water Dragon Jutsu!" Kisame said, surprised to see such a high-level Jutsu be used.
"Not that I'm not happy to see you Kakashi, but what're you doing here? And why'd you bring these two along?" Asuma asked.
"Well you know, I asked you both to take care of these two earlier. But I guess I got a little worried. And you know how Naruko is, I couldn't stop her if I tried." Said Kakashi, while Itachi knocked Sasuke away, before facing his former Anbu captain.
"Kakashi, why am I not surprised." Said Itachi, while glancing at Naruko and Sasuke.
"Well, well, well, the Kyūbi Jinchūriki. And who's that other kid, Itachi? He kind of looks like you." Kisame said, grinning fiercely at the fight he'll be getting soon.
"He's my little brother." Itachi answered, with Sasuke glaring at his brother in rage.
"Really, isn't that interesting. And you must be Kakashi Hatake, from what I hear, you fought my old teammate, Zabuza." Kisame stated, pointing Samehada at Kakashi, more interested in fighting Kakashi, only for Naruko to appear in front of him with the Kusanagi drawn.
"Sorry to disappoint, Kisame, but if you're fighting anyone, it'll be me!" Said Naruko, swing the Kusanagi and extending the blade, only for Kisame to block her strike, while ducking down, when Asuma tried hitting him from behind.
"Alright then! I'll shave both of you to ribbons!" Kisame shouted, charging forward and swinging Samehada around him, forcing Naruko and Asuma to jump back.
Meanwhile, Itachi mentally cursed, knowing things have escalated beyond his control. He'll have to end this quickly, before Kisame really starts letting loose and drawing more unnecessary attention.
"Very well, if it's a fight you want. Then let me show you, the true power of the Sharingan." Itachi said, closing his eyes, before they snapped open, revealing his Sharingan had changed into a three pointed shuriken with curved ends.
"Mangekyō Sharingan!"
So, what did you think, good. Yep we start with a council meeting, both to decide who will become the Godaime Hokage and how they'll handle the situation with Suna, until Danzō of all people suggests bringing in Naruko to help decide. We then see Naruko, Karin, and Tayuya moving into the Senju compound with her team and Kin giving her some housewarming gifts, with them conversing until Tenzo shows up and brings Naruko to the council. Once there Naruko not only manages to gain her own seat on the council, but to everyone's shock, minus Danzō, she's for the idea of attacking Suna, while also giving her own evidence and reasons as to why they should (along with learning that Kurenai and Neji really messed up). The matter is settled with the Daimyo charging Jiraiya with locating Tsunade, with the decision to invade Suna or not being left up to her, but if Tsunade doesn't return then Danzō becomes Hokage and the attack happens anyway. Jiraiya then speaks with Naruko to bring her along, mostly to try and talk her out of attacking Suna, with the offer of teaching the Rasengan. Naruko agrees on the condition her teammates, Karin, Tayuya, and Kin come as well. We then see Naruko has sensed Kisame and Itachi and goes to confront them with it leading to Naruko, Kakashi, and Sasuke going to assist Kurenai and Asuma. Finally we see Naruko and Asuma going against Kisame, with Kakashi and Sasuke facing off against Itachi, who has brought out the Mangekyō Sharingan. So, review if you liked go away if you didn't.
Storm out