(Hikari's POV)
When I woke up it was not where I was expecting I'd be. I woke up in what looked to be a hospital. Looking around I saw I was connected to a monitor and there were a ton of seals around the room. This was strange. Getting up I felt my body adjust and loosen itself, probably recovering from being in that uncomfortable be. My dad was on the left side of the room snoring away. Standing up I went over to my chart, I needed to know what I did to myself.
Severe Chakra Depletion
Heart Attack
Cardiac Arrest
Collapsed Lung
Poison
Multiple Organ Failure
Multiple Fractures [Leg, Foot, Arms, Ribs, Spine]
Holy fuck. What the hell happened to me? "Sage Mode kiddo your body wasn't ready for it." I turned swiftly preparing myself to fight another Kumo shinobi but relaxed when I saw it was just my dad. "You met her didn't you the physical embodiment of your instinct." I nodded. "Hmmm, and you figured out the curse too huh?" Again, I nodded. "Welp it's too late to do anything now. Sage Mode is pretty dangerous, but I doubt you'll be using it anytime soon, your body now knows you can't. Same thing happened to me a while back when I first triggered it. Luckily, you're a healer, so your body only needed a month to heal." Holy shit I was in a coma.
"The whole world knows by the way. Kumo ran their mouth. Hiruzen had to personally pick you up as to many assassins were targeting you. We all made it back though. Your little stunt worked though, Kumo, Iwa, and Kiri have either surrendered or signed non-aggression pacts. We're hoping to find out at the Gokage summit in the Land of Irons in like 2 weeks. Now c'mon get up you got things to do."
I watched as he took out a change of clothes and left the room giving me some privacy. Taking the clothes and donning them I realized they were the traditional clothes of the Onmitsukido Head Commander and the Clan Head. I quickly put them on before looking in the mirror, I had always dreamed of wearing these clothes, I just never thought it would be so soon. The top was a backless and shoulder less black one piece leotard, the bottoms were standard black harem pants. Around my waist was a purple sash with our clans symbol a lotus flower in the middle. My arms got black sleeves that went from my mid bicep to the base of my middle finger. It was completed by a black haori with golden accents, and the writing Shihoin Clan Head on the back.
Going to the door I placed my hand on the seal before stepping out. Something bad had happened. My Grandmother was supposed to be the Clan Head not me. When I reached the end of the hallway my room was connected to, I was stopped by two members of the Onmitsukido.
"My lady we are to escort you to the room of the Elders."
"We will keep you safe at the cost of our lives."
I looked at the two of brothers, their tones making me highly annoyed before slamming my fist in their guts. As they fell to their knees, I wrapped them both into a tight hug. "Did you think I wouldn't recognize my own brothers; I've missed you." The two removed their mask showing the face of Mako and Bolin. The two returned the hug, before and we began to chat on the way to the Elders. Mako had been promoted to Tokubetsu Jonin and was a member of the ANBU having broken the record for most completed Black Op missions in a month. He said he had met a girl and they were thinking of settling down but with everything going on he wanted to wait. Bolin was doing great too having been promoted to Tokubetsu Jonin and getting offers for both the Barrier and Defense Department and the Demolition Team. He hadn't met anyone special but that didn't seem to bother him at all. I told them all about my exploits which they were surprisingly quiet about, it was weird. Eventually we made it to the Chamber of the Elders and I told them they were to be my personal bodyguards for the time being until I got everything sorted. They both agreed before hugging me and standing outside the door to the Elder's Chambers.
I entered the almost pitch black room quietly and watched as they all stood until I took the seat at the head of the room. My throne was a small seating pillow in front of a wood table underneath a regal canopy, with spiraling pillars and small crystals flowing down. Once I sat, I could make out the silhouette of the Elders and important members sit down.
"What happened to grandmother?"
"Truthfully, you're not going to like it. You or the clan were to be punished for losing the Two-Tails, by letting it rampage in Kumogakure. Kumo and some of the elders of Konoha wanted an execution, their demands were your head or clan being punished. Your father and grandmother refused, to both which could have continued the war and started an internal strife. Your grandmother sensing that this wasn't what you'd want, so she gave herself up instead. She mutilated her chakra network and gave herself to Kumo. A solution everyone was okay with here in Konoha. Kumo wasn't the happiest and once they realized they could do nothing more to her and they gave her back. She's sickly, the damage being pretty extensive but she's still alive. That being said as the one of the strongest Shinobi in the clan and your connection with the Ancestors, you must become the new Clan Head." It was a lot to take in, but I had to agree with them. My grandmother had protected the clan to the best of her ability just as my mother had and now it was my turn.
"What about the war?"
"Practically over. There's to be a summit in 2 weeks, Kumo is utterly wrecked, Kiri is about to plunge into a civil war so they had to pull out, Iwa realized it couldn't go up against us one on one and withdrew their men to their border. Hiruzen is being pressured to stand down as Hokage due to his age and the fact we aren't pressing Iwa into a full surrender it seems, something about an armistice. The councils holding opening deliberations later today in fact, and if you're feeling up to it, we suggest you make an appearance. Let the village know we aren't weakened and are still to be respected." I nodded. They were right. As clan head I have to be the image of strength my clan needed.
"I will. First though I must take the fruit. Prepare the ritual." The Shihoin Elders rose and bowed to me before heading out. This was it. This was the day I'd be becoming the Clan Head. I suddenly felt myself sweat profusely as well as struggling to breath. I wasn't ready. I wasn't strong enough. I wasn't respected enough. I hadn't mastered the clan techniques. I was weak. I was a child. I was too fearful. I wasn't confident in my own abilities. My heart began beating heavily in my chest, my fear and anxiety seemingly taking over my body. I tried to steel myself, but I just couldn't. I was spiraling until a small nudge to my side snapped me out of it. Looking down I was surprised to see Anky there nudging my side practically demanding I pet her. I did so, scratching her scales and rubbing her neck which she seemed to greatly enjoy rumbling softly. Smiling at her I realized I wasn't alone. I had friends and family who I'm sure would help cover my short falls, just like she had done. I was still scared shitless, but I knew that I despite my fear I had to face it head on.
Once the little bugger fell asleep I had one of my clones send her to the garden where she could roam and play. My other summons were apparently there as well moved by my clones when I went into the mini coma. Walking out of the chamber I calmly walked towards the ritual room. My brother in tow, guarding me from unlikely threats.
"Yo, I have a question Hikari-sama?" I turned and glared at Bolin. I hated stuffy titles like that, and I knew he did it to annoy me. Both of them were trying to hold in their laughter and were failing miserably.
"Sorry, imouto but what we wanted to ask were about ya'know all your damn marriage requests?" I shifted to look at Mako this time, confusion clearly marked on my face. "They didn't tell you? Oh man, well… The Uchiha have sent two different marriage proposal, the Uzumaki have three, the Senju have like eleven, the Sarutobi have sent five, the Hatake sent some, the Hyuga, the Inuzuka, the Shimura, etc. It looks like almost every clan has sent at least one. Some weren't with just one man or a man at all."
"Yes, I'm bisexual if you're asking. I'm also non-Binary if that helps." I had never said that second part out loud before, even in my old life. Maybe that's why I adjusted to this body so quickly. Looking at them I saw that they were… confused?
"What the hell does that have to do with anything? I just wanted to know how you got people to actually like you."
"We've been known both of those things you idiot. I was gonna ask for one of the hotties you turned down."
As soon as they said that I almost tripped and face planted into the floor. All this time I'd been worried about my sexuality and these two idiots didn't even care. Composing myself I continued walking toward the ritual room. "Dude, I'm like 13 why the hell am I getting marriage requests?"
"You're 14. Birthday was last week." Mako looked so smug saying that it honestly annoyed the hell out of me. Holy shit. Time really flew by I started living in this world two years ago? That didn't feel right.
Timeline Adjustment: An Error in the System caused for the Timeline to be Adjusted. Thank you for your UndersTanding.
Hmm that's not ominous at all. A glitchy system can't be good. "14 is still pretty young." Welp not like I could do anything about it. So, I was just gonna ignore it until it became an actual problem.
Mako didn't get a chance to reply when we reached the doors to the Ritual Room. Both of them immediately turned around as I stared at the massive doors. The door had a white and black panther on their hind legs facing each other as if they were going to battle and around them were golden Chinese studs. I was honestly floored having never even seen the ritual room before. Placing my hand on the door I watched as a multitude of seal lit up before the doors opened. The inside was pitch black and the ominous feeling I got from it was one of the scariest things I'd ever felt. Stepping inside I felt the darkness surround me before the door closed suddenly. Suddenly multiple torches along the walls became alit with purple flames lighting up the room and showing it's true beauty. The walls were painted with were hundreds of panthers, tigers, lions and other big cats, and they all appeared to be watching me. Gold pillars held up the ceiling which had a mural of a beautiful woman reaching for a star from a beautiful tree. I was mesmerized, staring for a few minutes before looking down at the pool in front of me. It was filled with some sort of dark liquid that called out to me. Stepping in it I walked to the center when suddenly a massive tree grew from underneath the liquid. The tree was old but strong, it was filled with beauty that couldn't be put into words.
Placing my hand on the tree, I watched as the trunk split open and a star shaped fruit appeared. It was magnificent. A glowing purple masterpiece of a fruit, that pulsed from the center. It was unlike anything I'd ever seen before. Taking out the fruit I began to slowly devour it. It tasted perfect, it was sweet, and bitter at the same time, and the juice within filled me with an energy I didn't know I was missing. Once I had swallowed the last of the fruit, I felt my body grow incredibly heavy before falling backwards into the liquid. My body couldn't move. I was slowly falling into the abyss. The liquid began seeping into my skin, filling my body with chakra and a power I didn't know I had. It was too much. It was too heavy. Once again, I began to blackout again.
When I woke up, I was in a river, getting up I was in a world that was much more beautiful than any place I'd been to in either of my lives. Their was a savannah that spread far and wide with scarce trees under a beautiful violet sky filled with small clouds. Looking at the trees I saw multiple panthers within them. Each one staring at me with glowing violet eyes. Four large cats jumped out of the trees and began circling me each one snarling at me, judging me. A panther, a lioness, a tiger and a jaguar. They were majestic and walked with an air of regality. They were perfection. Suddenly, the jaguar transformed into my mother. She was beautiful wearing a purple and gold kimono with thunderclouds spread throughout them.
"Hello, my light."
"Mama," My eyes couldn't hold back the tears. My voice breaking instantly. Her departure from my life was one that despite my best efforts I just couldn't move past. "I've missed you so much. Why did you have to leave me?"
"Oh, my light. No matter what could happen to me, I could never leave you. I love you far too much for that. I will forever be with you my love, always protecting you. Always cherishing you. As will the rest of the ancestors. You have become a beacon of light and no matter what happens I will forever be with you; all you have to do is call."
The kiss she laid on my forehead gave me a peace I hadn't felt in a long while. "How can I be what they need me to be?"
My mother smiled at me before the lion transformed. This one being the Umama Wokuqala. Her clothing was the same as last time only the gold was replaced with silver. She was just as beautiful and stunning as the last time we met. "My beautiful daughter, whom I love so very much, you will find that the job of protecting the clan is not a difficult one. We are strong, united, and feared. We will protect our secrets as best we can, such is the way of the clan. You must focus on guiding them. Lead them on the right path by making decisions that will be good for them and the village. Know when to sacrifice and when not to. Know when the village's interest should and shouldn't come before the clans. And ask. If you do not know, ask the Ancestors, we will offer you guidance." I nodded I had a feeling that they meant that literally.
"I'm not strong enough." The tiger transformed this time, into my grandmother. I knew what that meant. She was dead. With the ancestors. "They lied to me." It wasn't a question but a statement. A fact.
"No. I only passed recently. Once I felt you take the fruit, I knew my time was over. As for your strength, you have the potential to be the strongest of us. Senjutsu, Yang Release, Wood Release, Shunko, and Fuinjutsu all powers that can and will make you the strongest. You must be strong. You must endure. You must grow stronger. You will grow stronger." I nodded. My grandmother had never been one for sentimentality, instead focusing on only being practical.
I turned towards the panther who only stared at me before growing into a panther the size of a small house. The beast was majestic, large, and beautiful. Its fur was sleek, black, and dark. Its eyes were gold and the regal air around it was much more powerful than the others. I felt inclined to drop to my knee, bowing out of respect.
"All of those before you who have voted. We've have seen your heart, we know your soul. We have taken and vote and we have decided. Your worthiness was determined based on your soul. We have seen your love, your hatred, you sins, and your redemptions. The ancestors have voted. Rise, child." I rose from my knee and looked straight into the eyes of the panther.
"We have decided you are worthy. You will inherit the power of the Shihoin." Lifting its right arm in placed the tip of its claws on my head and over my heart before a light flashed and everything changed.
When I awoke. I was floating on my back in the dark liquid. Standing up I felt my body change completely. My power had grown tremendously. Walking toward the door I saw a change of clothes had been laid at the edge of the pool. My old clothes had somehow dissolved completely. Putting them on I exited the door before looking at my brothers and giving them a warm smile. "I saw mom. She misses you; she loves you both and she's so proud of you."
The two of them looked startled but based on the rumors of the ceremony, they knew it was true. We walked out of the clan's ceremonial temple that lay deep beneath our garden in the center of our compound. When I walked out the bright lights nearly blinded me, my eyes stung from the pain but I simply rubbed the pain away before continuing. As I walked along the path to the main house, every member of the clan was along the path each cheering, dancing or playing music. They were celebrating me. Smiling to them all I nodded and waved to as many as I could. When I finally made it to the delegation room the elders, my father, Lord Third, Kushina-sensei and Minato were all there waiting for me. Walking to the head of the room I sat on the head seat. I nodded and everyone else sat down before looking at me.
"Greetings everyone, what may I do for you?"
Everyone bowed before sitting down, I had no idea what this meeting was about but I had a feeling I wouldn't like it. Lord Third spoke up first. "As you know the war is over, however my decision to agree to an armistice instead of a surrender does not sit well with many. While the Senju, Uzumaki, Nara, Akimichi and Sarutobi clan all are backing me publicly, the other clans are not. We are set to go to a Gokage Summit, in two weeks, however we are also set to discuss Hokage candidates later today. We came here today to see what is your opinion on the matter?"
Everyone turned towards me. I hadn't been clan head for more than three hours and I was already faced with an impossible choice. "Lord Third, I understand you wish to avoid further casualties but as I see it not demanding reparations is foolish. Look at the position we're in, we killed the Third Raikage, the Two Tails Jinchuriki, the Third Mizukage, 3 of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, survived two invasions and still have the man power to continue. Ohnoki may have defeated the Ay and Bee brothers but he lost to you, and he had help then. We have Minato, Fugaku, Kizashi-sensei, Dan, Tsuna-Oba, Jiraiya, Orochimaru, Kushina-sensei, and Mikoto each of whom would be a suitable choice to replace you. We're strong enough to demand something. We could do it without incurring more war, they know they can't beat us. They wouldn't dare try."
Hiruzen and the others all looked at me. I knew this isn't what they wanted to hear but my Clan came first now and I'm sure this is what they would have wanted.
Hiruzen, Kushina-sensei, and my father all looked at me with a hint of disappointment. While Minato just held a stern face. It was strange not knowing what he was thinking. After a few moments of silence, it was actually him that spoke next. "Dan is dead. After the battle with Kumo he was killed, by Kiri Hunter Ninja while trying to protect Kizashi-sensei and Fugaku upon their return. Their way of returning the favor according to them." My fist clenched. I had gotten one of our S-Ranks killed. That's what the actions taken against us were about.
"Is that why my grandmother had to offer herself up in my place?" I knew the answer but I needed to hear it from them.
"Danzo insisted it. As he is the interim Hokage there was nothing we could do to change it." I raised my eyebrow. Interim Hokage?
"Ahh yes, well at the time Danzo was looking to have me impeached. He had collected evidence he thought would be compelling enough to have me impeached and submitted it. I'm technically still under trial as we speak." I nodded. They were here to secure my alliance in the vote then.
"Lord Third. The Shihoin Clan will not follow Danzo, interim or not. We'd rather leave the village than stay here. With that being said, I know why you are here. I know what you want. I will give you an answer at the council meeting later today. Now please leave. There's much we must discuss." The Third and his entourage stood up and bowed before leaving, they hadn't received the answer they wanted but it was better than the worst alternative.
"Elders, we have much to discuss it seems."
Walking into the council chambers within the Hokage Mountain for the first time was jarring. The entrance was protected by some of the strongest looking ANBU I'd ever seen. The entry way was a narrow stone hallway lit by multiple torches. Walking with me were Bolin and Mako both of whom were in their Onmitsukido uniforms. When we arrived a jonin, who I'd never met. We looked pretty intimidating walking down the halls and I could tell the jonin was very apprehensive to guide us. Once we made it to my seat which seemed to be a literal hole in a wall. I left my brothers outside before entering. Once inside, I saw a seat and table with some files next to it as well. Sitting I looked at the chamber. It was a circular room with other rooms like mine lining the walls. In the middle was a small area where those who would be speaking could stand. Looking around the room I saw multiple representatives. Shibi Aburame, Chouza Akimichi, Ten-kun, Muzenshi Hoki, Kizashi-sensei, Hiashi Hyuga, Tsume Inuzuka, Inoue Kurama, Iron Lee, Shikaku Nara, Rin Nohara, Dai-kun, Tsuna-Oba, Danzo Shimura, Fugaku Uchiha, Kushina-sensei, and Inoichi Yamanaka made up the Shinobi Clan heads, while Koharu Utatane, Homura Mitokado, Dragon, Jiraiya and Orochimaru made up the Shinobi factor. Their were a few members of the merchant clans as well however none of them were interesting enough for me.
We saw that Hiruzen entered the room standing in the middle of the floor. Danzo was the first to speak. "Hiruzen Sarutobi, we will now commence with your impeachment trial. You are allowed to select three councilors to sit on your panel of judges, we will also select three and then the council will vote on the final three. Who do you request?"
Hiruzen didn't appear slightly bothered. His calm and stoic demeanor a stable of his time as Hokage. "I select Senju Tsuna-Oba, Nara Shikaku and Shihoin Hikari." I was floored. Tsuna-Oba I was expecting, Shikaku was a smart choice though as the main strategist and mostly unbiased party he brought legitimacy to Hiruzen's argument if he was on his side. Me though I was a shock. The only thing I could think of us was he expected me to vote against Danzo no matter what. The rest of the council didn't know of my disdain of Danzo so it was a smart move on his part.
"Very well, Myself, Hiashi and Fugaku will be the choice of the accusing party. Members of the council who were not selected please vote for another candidate." Danzo was smart, two of the three royal clans were backing him. It seems. After a few minutes in which all the votes were collected. Danzo was given a piece of paper and he stood. "The last judge will be Dragon, who will also be the speaker. Let's begin."
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, you are charged with a failure of duties. How do you plead?"
"Not Guilty."
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, you are charged with War Crime A-024, authorization of usage of a tailed beast in a Hidden Village, how do you plead?"
"Guilty." Now that was a shocker. Looking around the room I could see no one was surprised.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, you have been charged with reckless endangerment of Konoha Military and Civilians how do you plead?"
"Not Guilty."
"Let us begin. Hiruzen Sarutobi, you deny failure of your duties but your duties are too protect and serve the best interests of Konoha is it not? You called for an armistice however that is not in the best interest of Konoha. No reparations especially for the unnecessary damage we suffered, and the lives lost is unacceptable, what say you?" Dragon's voice was neutral and I couldn't get a read on him at all.
"I say this council, and Danzo were too hasty. I have not made any final decision on this and have consulted with multiple clans on my next course of action. My original course of action with the armistice was not the correct choice and I am working on a draft for a true surrender from Iwagakure and Ohnoki." Smart move. Hiruzen hadn't been visiting the clans to gain support but show he heard his people and was revising his actions.
"What about your actions and strategies within this war? You committed multiple atrocities and sent men to their deaths willingly in an effort to win battles?" This time Danzo spoke his obvious bias against Hiruzen on full display.
"I did what was necessary of me. Everything I did, I did for Konoha some of those were signed off by members of this very council. Also if I'm not mistaken, Danzo, you did the same thing to your ROOT forces and that is what actually prompted this impeachment. You knew that I was going to expose you and what you thought was your secret dealings. Esteemed council if I may?" What happened next surprised us, each of us were handed a black folder with the details of secret operations carried out by Danzo, some approved and some done without any village oversight.
Looking through the file I saw the kidnapping and conditioning of my sister as one of the missions and the forced creation of Bear as another. My chakra began to rise as my anger surged. Purple and black chakra began to seep out my skin and surround me in a smokey aura before I looked at Danzo with murder in my eyes. I was going to kill that man. I took a step towards him and all hell almost broke loose, all the guards were in front of their respective clan heads and I was surrounded by ANBU no doubt there to protect Hiruzen. Mako and Bolin were in front of me as well both armed and ready to fight. Looking around and seeing all the unnecessary commotion I caused, I feigned a sheepish look, and sat back down and bringing my chakra back under control. "My apologies."
Everyone seemed to relax slightly afterwards, and we all turned back to Dragon. "Let's continue. Looking at the evidence for reckless endangerment it said you purposely left the village with insufficient protection when retrieving those returning from the Battle of Fukaishizukesa. As I read the charge I feel it is baseless and I'm inclined to dismiss it. My fellow judges please review this and see if you agree?" Looking through the basis of the accusation I saw it was just excessive charging that would have qualified Hiruzen for execution along with the other two sentences."
"All in favor of dismissing the charges." Everyone except Danzo raised their hands. "Dismissed."
"Now for the first charge, please raise your arm for a Not Guilty verdict." Tsuna-Oba, Shikaku, and Dragon raised our hands. "Guilty verdict?" Danzo, Hiashi and Fugaku all raised their hands. Everyone looked towards me as I put my chin in my hand and began contemplating this issue.
"I'd like to reduce the charge, to fear induced negligence. Hiruzen let fear of continuing the war keep him from confronting Ohnoki. With his words and the evidence provided he cannot stay Hokage but he surely shouldn't be forcefully removed from office. A guilty verdict here would force him to pick a successor within three months."
"Hmm. I agree. Judges?" Everyone except Danzo raised their hands.
"Very well, since you were found guilty of a War Crime you perpetuated as a response to when it happened to our own village. Your punishment will be a three moth retirement resignation." Hiruzen nodded before looking up at me smiling before taking his seat.
"Before we continue, I'm sure you have all read the file on Danzo's crimes, have you not?" Almost every member of the council raised their arms. "Well then esteemed council, may I arrest Lord Danzo." The entire council agreed, and he was instantly taken away most likely to a prison cell, or at least that's what I had hoped. Danzo's ROOT agents ran deep. "Now then, lets start the deliberation on the next candidate for Hokage."
"Very well, it's been a while so we will begin with an explanation of how these proceedings, each clan head, the Jonin Commander, The Advisors, and myself will be allowed the opportunity to nominate a candidate. For them to be up for consideration, they must also receive at least three confirmations from members of the council. Afterwards they will be questioned by the members of the merchant and civilian council. Afterward we will hold a vote on the remaining candidates. Is this understood." We all nodded. This would be a pivotal moment in Konoha history. "Very well, Interim-Jonin Commander Orochimaru, do you have any nominations? The interim part of his title was interesting indeed. Sakumo-sensei had been our previous JC and I honestly didn't know how to feel with him being replaced so quickly.
"Hmmm. On behalf of the Jonin Corp, I'd like to nominate Minato Namikaze." Despite the nomination, Orochimaru's tone suggested he was extremely unhappy with having to deliver it.
"All in favor?" Surprisingly Minato barely made the cut, only receiving a confirmation from myself, Kushina-sensei, Rin and Jiraiya.
"Very well. Honored Advisors, do you wish to nominate anyone at this time?"
The two of them stood, both long time friends of Hiruzen, stood with an air of overconfidence around them. I absolutely hated it but bit my tongue, I needed to get a read of the political atmosphere for now. "We would like to nominate Orochimaru." To no ones surprised Fugaku, Hiashi, the new Shimura representative, and the Hoki clan head all confirmed him immediately.
The meeting proceeded uneventfully from there. The Aburame & Akimichi not putting forth any nominations themselves. Kizashi-sensei nominated Tsuna-Oba of all people which surprised everyone to be honest but she was confirmed by Kushina-sensei, Tsume, and myself. She would be a respectable Hokage especially if she was doing it honor Dan.
Ten-kun went next nominating Fugaku, who was confirmed by Orochimaru, the advisors, Dragon and shockingly Hiashi Hyuga. Personally I didn't like it, Fugaku didn't seem to care about the village as much as he did his clan, but I didn't express that feeling as I was intent on not becoming a target for them this early in my career. After him, the Hoki and the Hyuga clan both passed with no clear candidate from them either. Tsume Inuzuka lived up to her clans reputation boldly screaming how Kushina-sensei was more than deserving of the position and how we'd be fools to ignore her. Like Minato it was close with only Kizashi-sensei, Rin, and Tsuna-Oba backing her. I also joined in at the last seconds as I had my doubts, but I couldn't hurt her as her student, and she already had the votes.
The Kurama, Lee, Nara & Nohara also didn't put up a nominee either and at that point unless someone put up Jiraiya or Kizashi-sensei this thing was basically decided. "I Daichi Sarutobi, on behalf on the Sarutobi Clan would like to nominate Hikari Shihoin." I was floored. Everyone turned and looked at me to catch my reaction but I could only sit there covering my mouth. This couldn't be real.
"I'll confirm it." Whipping my head toward Ten-kun, I was shocked to see how levelheaded he was about the whole thing. What the hell was he thinking?
"You know what let's shake it up. I'll back her." I turned my head toward Kizashi-sensei, immediately. What the hell was going on here. The man just took a swig of his sake before flashing me a smile, which I would have punch right off his face if I could.
"Hmm, she's fought three Jinchuriki, killed a Kage, and took an entire fortress. She certainly has the credentials for it. I'll back her as well." I whipped my head toward Kushina-sensei-sensei instantly regretting backing her. I didn't want this.
"Hmmm, I like it, as Hokage, I'll also back her." This shocked everyone. Hiruzen had yet to back anyone and a confirmation from the leader of our fucking village was a huge thing. "Very well, Hikari Shihoin is now confirmed as a candidate for the position of the Fourth Hokage.
Looking around I could see the mixed reaction of everyone there. Most were extremely confused, while some like Fugaku were pissed, and others like Shikaku were stone faced, impossible to get a read on. This couldn't be happening. I was speechless for the rest of the nomination.
The Senju clan attempted to nominate my Dad however with his injuries, it was obvious he'd be left out. I still attempted to back him as did Kushina-sensei but no one else stood by us. When it came time for my nomination, I put forth Kizashi-sensei and he was instantly backed by Tsuna-Oba, Jiraiya, Dai-kun, Ten-kun, Shibi, Chouza, Inoichi, and the Shimura representative. He had been given a lion's share of the credit for ending the war, despite the fact that it was my plan. It was mainly due to the fact he was the Commander and he was a man. From what Mako and Bolin told me, people apparently found it hard to believe a small girl like myself could have come up with a plan like that and execute it with such skill.
The Shimura & Uchiha had no nominations, they both probably weren't comfortable with the amount of competition as it stood. It was for that reason exactly why Kushina-sensei would stay disliked within both clans as she nominated Mikoto Uchiha. I had never met the woman but Yuriko practically fawned over her. She was strong and precise apparently but her real strength lied in her eyes and her speed according to my teammate. She always fangirled on how it seemed her ocular prowess was so strong it felt like she could see the future and that she was as fast if not faster than Ay who was considered the fastest ninja in Kumo. It wasn't just her power either, I'd heard she was kind but practical having the strength to know when to be strict and when to be slightly soft. Tsume, Hiashi, Tsuna-Oba and I all gave a confirmation for her. I trusted Yuriko and my senseis, so it was an easy choice for me.
Finally, the Yamanaka Clan went and nominated Jiraiya. I wasn't surprised when no backed him. Jiraiya was our interim spymaster, the old one having retired. The attempt was more of gesture of showing support, than an actual nomination. We all watched as Hiruzen stood up, ready to commence with the proceeding.
"Thank you, all esteemed council. We will begin the interview with the Merchants and Civilian Council in thirty minutes. Candidates, please follow me. Standing up, I was escorted by my guards and two ANBU into a room with the other candidates. We were all sat at a large table as members of the civilian clans and the Merchant Council entered. It was about twelve of them each one looking pretty plain or boring, most of them were men, with three women there. The room was tense, everyone there judging us, on every minute detail. It didn't take me long to also figure out we were probably being evaluated by even more people as well.
"Let's begin immediately. Candidates, please give us a report on what you know of the current state of village affairs?"
Minato was as quick as ever. "The village is currently in a state of severe economic fragility. Based on the numbers, I've been studying the war forced the civilian sector to produce more shinobi to make up the ones we lost in the initial conflict. This led to those staying in the village, to have to somehow keep up with productivity as well. Trade was heavily impacted, and we are starting on our backfoot."
"Hmmm, I'd agree with Minato but I'd like to also throw in a lot of our foreign trading partners contracts expired and renewing them might be difficult. We didn't exactly make it easy for them during the war." Orochimaru was quick to deliver his input as well.
"Current budgeting strategies, might require more discipline. As it stands, we can't exactly give too much money back to the public sector as we need to rebuild our military assets as soon as possible. We have to be able to get back to a place where we aren't struggling to protect the village and accrue income, at the same time." Fugaku's solution was honestly expected and while I didn't like the man he had a fair point. As a shinobi village, our ninja had always brought in a major portion of our income that we used to run the village and fund our military endeavors, while the civilian sector mainly funded our banks and small scale projects.
"Hmmm. We need to circulate more money in. We have to find dead ends and then nip them in the bud immediately. May we be provided with some data on what is in the red?" I almost whipped my head in Kushina-sensei's direction I was extremely surprised she would want to look into that. The data was handed to each of us, and I began to look over it. This was bad. Looking at the information it appeared we were accumulating way too much debt, most of it was to cover the massive loss of income from the lack of missions, and that in conjunction with decline in productivity from the civilian sector hurt us badly."
"We might need to lean on some other countries. Get some of the smaller nations that owe us money to pay faster by increasing the interest while loaning what we can to other nations who are more likely to pay." I was shocked Kizashi-sensei said something so serious without drinking. The civilian council all seemed to like that idea despite the fact that it was borderline terrible. This shit was rigged.
"And if they don't?" Thank kami for someone to have some common sense. Mikoto looked annoyed having also figured that it was rigged. "Depending on the nation they might not pay. In fact we could be in the middle of another war. If we do so."
"What we need is to find a way to increase civilian productivity, maintain a strong enough military presence to complete missions and protect the village, and allow Konoha's economy to become more self-sufficient." Tsuna-Oba was right. We relied too much on missions at the moment.
"Who runs the logistics of our military? Who handles the purchasing and acquisitions? The contracting?" I asked. I could feel everyone turn towards me. Instead of answering the question I was asking questions, to them this would probably be seen as ignorant.
"Well for the most part once promoted to chu-"
"Well, we start there. Contracting, purchasing, R&D, and any other non-combat division should be filled by civilians. This we give us more able bodied mission taking shinobi and the money we'd pay them would go back to the village in the form of taxes and spending. We can use that extra manpower to complete missions for the daimyos of other nations and show our abilities, which can lead to creating extra income. Also, we need to think about expanding the village. Homeownership in the village is atrocious and our banks are missing out on huge opportunities here. Long term loans within the village would definitely only benefit us especially if we get Shinobi to make those purchases, we need to make sure the money we pay them partially comes back to us in some way. I have more ideas but I'm unsure on their effectiveness and would need more data to back them." Everyone just stared at me as if I'd grown a second head, most of them not expecting a child to have such insight on economic strategy.
"W-w-well t-then. I must say, that is very impressive, Lady Shihoin. Next question, some civilians believe the Shinobi's are treated better what do you say to this and do you have any solutions you'd suggest." Smirking to myself, with a renewed sense of confidence I knew it wouldn't matter what they'd ask I'd kill it this round.
Three hours later and the questioning was finally over. We were told to wait while they went over the results and I could feel everyone instantly relax as they left.
"UGH, Minato that was sooooooo BORING!" Mikoto and I giggled at Kushina-sensei's explanation. You could tell she wasn't one for the more administrative aspects of the Hokage chair.
"It wasn't too bad dear." Minato was on the floor scroll in hand as he looked over something feverously.
"YO, nice job pipsqueak. Really impressed me and saved my rep ya'know." Kizashi-sensei, had slung his arm around me jerking me back slightly.
"I agree, I was very impressed with your answers as well. You sure set the bar pretty high." I blushed at Tsuna-oba's praise.
"Shihoin-san, when this is over, I'd like to discuss something with you." I turned toward Fugaku who had barely said a word to me at this point but I was interested in what he'd have to say
As everyone began chatting, Orochimaru had decided to not speak to anyone and sulked in the corner. Eventually after three hours of waiting and chatting. A young ninja most likely a Tokubetsu Jonin entered the waiting room.
"Uhm, p-p-please f-f-forgive m-me. I'm n-new t-to t-th-this."
"Enough stuttering just say what needs to be fucking said already." We all turned to Orochimaru the annoyance on his face clearly visible. "R-Right s-s-sorry. Uhm Lords and Ladies Kushina Uzumaki, Kizashi Haruno, Orochimaru, and Mikoto Uchiha. We regret to inform you that we will not be continuing with your evaluation for the role of the Hokage. Minato Namikaze, Hikari Shihoin, Fugaku Uchiha, and Tsunade Senju the council will be voting between you four.
"WHAT THE HELL! THIS BRAT WAS CHOSEN BEFORE ME! SHE COULDN'T DEFEND HERSELF MUCH LESS THE FUCKING VILLAGE! I AM THE CLOSEST THING TO A GOD OF SHINOBI I AM THE ONLY ONE WITH THE POTENTIAL TO SURPASS ALL OTHERS! IT SHOULD BE MINE! IT WAS ALWAYS TO BE MINE!" Orochimaru was pissed and pointing at me with extreme malice and disdain, his chakra rising alarmingly. Everyone tensed up and all the guards and ANBU were between him and me.
"Calm down, Orochimaru." This time it was Jiraiya who spoke, two toads on his shoulder. Holy shit. He was about to go Sage Mode on him. Orochimaru did nothing several white snakes coming out the sleeves of his yukata hissing at everyone around him. He snapped toward Jiraiya, his face beginning to take on a scale like pattern. Wait did he have Sage Mode here too.
"What are you going to do Jiraiya, it's not like you can stop me very few here could." Jiraiya was sweating, which meant he must've been right.
"Stand down. Orochimaru." The room suddenly became freezing cold and we all turned our heads towards Minato whose chakra was beginning to rise causing an intense pressure to fill the room. Orochimaru looked more apprehensive this time. Minato's eyes became yellow with orange markings on the corners of both eyes. "I'm one of the few who can." Orochimaru knowing it was a lost cause did nothing but glare before leaving the room with the other excluded candidates walking out with them.
The chunin then led us back to the council room only this time we were on the speakers floor surrounded by everyone.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we have discussed amongst ourselves but now we must ask the candidates themselves, who they think should be Hokage." Lord Hiruzen stated as soon as we were settled.
"Hikari Shihoin. She knows so much about the politics and economics of it all already and would only need the right teacher to truly get her at the level of strength needed to become a Hokage." Minato was quick and it surprised me that he said my name.
"Minato Namikaze. He's just as bright if not more than Shihoin-dono but he has the power to match it. He's already world renowned for his speed and strength we might as well seal the deal." Tsuna-oba was clearly over the whole thing, Orochimaru have spoiled her mood.
"If not myself, then Namikaze. Senju-dono, didn't state a single thing that was incorrect."
"Minato Namikaze, easily." I said it so quickly as to avoid any sort of debate.
"Very well then based on your votes and our own. I am proud to announce Minato Namikaze as our Fourth Hokage." All of us excluding Orochimaru and Fugaku immediately began clapping for him. Minato had deserved it more than anyone in my eyes. Hopefully his reign would last longer than in my world. I would do my best to ensure it.
When I arrived to my new house, I didn't even try to take it all in instead heading straight to what used to be my grandmother's room and fell on her bed immediately. I was wiped. From my ascension to Clan Head to near ascension to Hokage and the meetings that proceeded after that with the other clan heads I was gassed. Fugaku though pissed he didn't become Hokage, still saw fit to talk to me and asked if he could bring Itachi to the Shihoin Grounds for training. I think it was his way of asking me to take Itachi on as an apprentice, but it didn't really make a lot of sense considering, I was still apprenticing under my own senseis, and if my conversation with Minato later that night had meant what I thought it did, he'd probably wanted me to apprentice under him too.
He wasn't the only one that stopped me. All of the clan heads had come up to me to congratulate me and offer wisdom should I need. I was trying to be as polite as possible with all of them, the political game still very new to me. The only person barring my senseis who I truly enjoyed talking to was Hiruzen who had stopped me as well and had informed me that I was promoted to Jonin, which while exciting also became extremely annoying as apparently every Clan Head knew and multiple Jonin Sensei requests for me had filed. I also apparently had marriage proposals, financial statements, invitations, job requests and a whole lot more. I had to call two of the trainees in the Onmitsukido to come and get the mountains of paperwork I'd have to go through tomorrow, and I was dreading it. After the meeting ended, Kushina-sensei decided we had to go celebrate, with all of Minato's friends and half the Clan Heads ending up at some bar, where they got so wasted, I had to drag several of their ass's home. When it was all said and done I was extremely happy to get home. Getting off the bed I began to get up and change into my nightwear. Once that was done I went to the bathroom to start my night routine which I had severely missed, back in the field. When I returned, I saw the worst shit ever. Multiple stacks of paperwork around my bed and on my desk, probably from the Hokage's Office. Silently screaming I decided to ignore it until tomorrow and hop in my bed. I decided I needed to do some self-care before going to sleep so I pulled up the completed mission alert to see exactly what I won.
MISSION ALERT!
You started it now, it's time to finish it. Time for a major battle.
OBJECTIVE
Win the Battle.
REWARD
300000 EXP; 10000 REP with Konoha & Hi no Kuni, 500,000 Ryo, 5 Jutsu Scrolls, 5 Rare Items
BONUS OBJECTIVE (11)
Kill Ay or Killer Bee (INCOMPLETE)
Kill Ay and Killer Bee (INCOMPLETE)
Kill a member of the Siete Bestia (COMPLETE)
Kill three members of the Siete Bestia (COMPLETE)
? (INCOMPLETE)
Release the Two Tails in Kumo (COMPLETE)
Kill the Raikage (COMPLETE)
? (INCOMPLETE)
Unlock Wood Release (COMPLETE)
Win with at least three of the S-Ranks Alive (COMPLETE)
Win with Nawaki, Sakumo, and Kizashi Alive (INCOMPLETE)
REWARD
300000 EXP; 10000 REP with Konoha & Hi no Kuni, 500,000 Ryo, Wind Release: Tempest Dragon Fang, Wind Release: Wild Slashing Wind, Lightning Release: Thunderbolt Strike, Water Release: Surging Tidal Crash, Fire Release: Jetfire Fist, Cloak of the Midnight Guardian, Unicorn Knife, Blade of Evolution, Blackstone Ore, Thunderoak Wood.
50,000 EXP, Beast Orb: Primal, Savage Claw Jutsu (COMPLETE)
150,000 EXP, Beast Orb: Primal, Beast Orb: Wolf, Beast Orb: Chameleon, Beast Orb: Monkey, Kong Palm Jutsu, Iron Wolf Soul Cleaver Jutsu, Refraction Jutsu (COMPLETE)
100,000 EXP, Lucky Cat Charm, Fire Release: Azure Wrath (COMPLETE)
300,000 EXP, Lightning Release: Lightning Sword, Lightning Release: Obsidian Thunderbolt, Lightning Release: Raganarok (COMPLETE)
100,000 EXP, Wood Release: Deep Forest Emergence, Wood Release: Wood Fist, Wood Release: Great Forest Technique, Wood Release: Binding Technique,Wood Release: Wood Locking Wall, Wood Release: Flourishing Burial (COMPLETE)
100,000 EXP Scarf of Resistance, Fire Release: Argo Vesta,Wood Release: Wood Tearing Tendrils, Yang Release: Hachiman's Armor (COMPLETE)
You've gained the Perk: Blessing of the Mother Sage.
The forced evolution of your body has given you the training points you would normally receive through training.
You have leveled up by [10]
Due to the rapid change your body is shutting down temporarily to adjust.
I quickly dumped 10 points into luck and divided the rest evenly before I officially lost consciousness, for the like the millionth time.
OKAY now that hurt like a bitch. Sitting up in bed I began to go over a few things. Starting with the Blessing of the Mother Sage. It basically gave me an extra stat point in each of my stats per level. It also gave me access to seven techniques, however only one of them were unlocked.
The Panther's Habit was a very simple jutsu. It basically surrounded me in a dense layer of chakra that compressed itself to my body enhancing my STR and DEX by multiplying it by 1.25. It also had the ability to store kinetic energy absorbed through contact and release it in an omnidirectional burst or concentrated blasts of energy.
Next I learned all the jutsu I could at the moment. This included Wind Release: Tempest Dragon Fang, Wind Release: Wild Slashing Wind, Lightning Release: Thunderbolt Strike, Water Release: Surging Tidal Crash, Fire Release: Jetfire Fist, Kong Palm Jutsu, Iron Wolf Soul Cleaver Jutsu, Refraction Jutsu,Lightning Release: Lightning Sword, Lightning Release: Obsidian Thunderbolt, Lightning Release: Raganarok, Fire Release: Argo Vesta, Wood Release: Wood Tearing Tendrils, Wood Release: Deep Forest Emergence, Wood Release: Wood Fist, Wood Release: Great Forest Technique, Wood Release: Binding Technique, Wood Release: Wood Locking Wall, and Wood Release: Flourishing Burial.
Fire Release: Azure Wrath and Yang Release: Hachiman's Armor were both completely out of my skillset at the moment, so I just pocketed those for later. Getting out of bed I looked and saw that it was nearly the noon, my body had taken almost the whole morning to fully adjust and I could tell that it had changed physically. Going into the master bathroom, I looked at myself in the mirror, and the change was jarring, I almost fell on my ass. I was slightly taller standing at around 5'8" almost half a foot taller than yesterday. My silky blonde hair had oddly changed as well, the roots had become black but about three quarters along the way it became blonde again. It was a startling change but not one I really minded. My greens eyes had turned a deep violet. It was a startling discovery, and it made me feel like I was looking at a stranger.
A few more seconds of just staring and I decided I didn't mind them. The rest of my body had looked familiar. My skin had only gotten slightly darker going from a very light beige to a richer, fuller brown skin. My muscles were slightly more defined and lifting up my shirt a slight six pack was visible. My legs were also pretty toned yet still sleek as well. The biggest change was my breast, they had grown significantly from their B cups to what I suspect were DDs. It was honestly a major surprise to myself and my back definitely felt it as well. I didn't really know how to feel about them though. On one hand I wasn't super bothered but on the other it was a completely new experience that I hadn't really put much stock into. Doing a few stretches and some light shadow boxing I found they weren't awful but definitely more than annoying. I'd have to do something about that. Going back to the room I finally took in the sight of it.
My bed was a large king-size bed with a canopy that had a veil on it as well. It had multiple pillows and looked very elegant. It's gold and black colors mixing purposefully throughout the entire bed. The rest of the space was very large with multiple dressers, a desk, a small coffee table, and some furniture as well. Looking up I saw a beautiful mosaic of big cats playing, hunting, and resting amongst a heavenly plain, at the center a glass chandelier. Going into the closet it was like a second room, and I saw multiple elegant kimono and dresses that I assumed were my grandmothers. Going farther in I saw medium sized changing area, with a small red velvety circular sectional, a wooden coffee table and a full body mirror that could almost took the whole wall.
On the table was a small note, picking it up my eyes instantly became filled with tears.
Dear My Beloved Light,
I am so proud of what you were able to accomplish on that battlefield. Everyone's heard of it. The third coming of Hashirama Senju and the Hell Cat of Konoha, combined together, took the battlefield and executed a plan that forced two of the Five Great Shinobi Villages to effectively surrender. A young girl not even a Jonin assisting in the death of arguably the second strongest Kage at the time and the strongest Raikage of all time. You have made the Senju and the Shihoin so proud and I know you will continue to do so. Unfortunately, though not everyone is pleased with your actions. The Two-Tails not being in our possession was a major blow to the people. Many died thinking we'd be getting a new Jinchuriki and some felt that you didn't have to unleash it, mostly the civilians who lost family in the fight. The council and most of the Shinobi understand why you did it. When you did that the Raikage ordered waves of Shinobi to retreat and that allowed more of your fellow field medic to save countless lives. Despite this Danzo who was interim Hokage at the time, took full advantage of the situation. He wanted you imprisoned most likely so that you'd end up "missing" in captivity. I refused, to allow that to happened but when Kumo began demanding blood, well, I knew someone would take the fall. So, I did. Destroying my chakra network, I offered myself up. Kumo was satisfied and so was the council, they felt my inability to fight was enough of an embarrassment for the clan. Unfortunately, for myself this action only hastened my illness. I knew I had little time left so I did everything I could to ensure your ascension to Clan Head went as smooth as possible. This entire house is yours and everything in it. Kushina-dono keyed the library and the armory to only open for you, I had your sister stock the closet with every piece of clothing you may need, and every secret entrance here is now visible. You should visit the secret underground jungle, your ferocious dragonic beasts may enjoy it (I do wish I could have met them at least once, they sounded truly magnificent). Alas my time is coming to an end. Please remember, despite my usual cold demeanor I have never felt anything less than pure love you. Please take care of our clan and our family. Protect them and guide them into true prosperity as I know you can. I love you, my light.
-Love, Your Proud Grandmother
I nearly bawled my eyes out when I got to the end. My Grandmother, wasn't one to express her feelings so openly, having led the clan through the end of the First Shinobi War to the End of the Third, helping my mother when it was her turn to lead. To read this declaration, it was almost overwhelming. Taking the time to compose myself, I refocused and went back in my room, looking around there was a shit load of paperwork. Summoning up 10 clones, each of us split up a stack and began looking through them. Most of it was absolute bullshit, every marriage proposal was immediately rejected, no matter who it was from. The Jonin Sensei Request and Apprentice Selection Requests were also rejected. I wasn't ready to be anyone's sensei just yet and I wanted to get some years of experience before I was tasked with that much responsibility.
The mission request were pretty standard of the Onmitsukido, mostly escorting high ranking officials, assassinating political rivals, performing robberies/heists, protecting the interests of the wealthy and performing espionage both corporate and political. Thinking back on the history of the group, I wonder how the ancestors felt about our reputation. The Onmitsukido were supposed to be a group of the most elite of our clan, having only about 50-60 members. They were all practitioners of Shunko and users of the Nichirin Blades, originally intended to be a group that we sent out to protect the peace of the clan but when we joined the Hidden Villages, they became the epitome of Shinobi. We began to embrace the Shinobi way and excelled in high risk missions that would normally be required of a special stealth force, like the members of the ANBU. Hiruzen had been worried about the group and with good reason a ANBU like force exclusively loyal to the clan before the village was dangerous, however the income we brought to the village was more than worth it apparently. Said income was needed today. I sent 45 of our members out on 25 different mission all ranging from low S-Rank to High B-Rank missions.
Once that was done, we focused on the financial statements. The clan was doing well but we had a few accounts requesting for extensions on a few payments, and while I wasn't too worried about it, I did intend to set up meetings to discuss these developments. Minato had also sent over a breakdown of the village's financial situation and asked me to draft a proposal based on the candidate's interview. Standing by what I said then I looked at all the position occupied by current shinobi that could be given to civilian and suggested a payment system for them as well. For the shinobi in those position I tried to find in village stations they could transfer to and I think I did well sending a clone to deliver it to Minato. I got a few invitation to some formal events and accepted most of them. I figured networking and such would be good for the clan in the long run.
When I finished I got dressed in my clan head outfit, and went to explore the house. It was a large Japanese mansion, with traditional wooden flooring and some modern appliances I had an office, living area, kitchen, several bedrooms and even an outdoor garden that was surrounded by main house. I saw a few of the secret rooms, each with a different purpose that'd I have to figure out the purpose was when I had more time. What I really wanted was in a secret passage and I was not disappointed to find a massive expanse of a lush jungle underneath the whole thing. I took some time exploring it taking stock of what was there as well the room was almost endless. I knew this couldn't all fit under Konoha which made me wonder how it could exist here.
This is your own personal habitat/farm. As you may have noticed you can tame certain animals and that is why we created this place so you could store them here.
Smirking to myself, I summoned Anky and my Indoraptors. The five of them looked at area in awe before I sent them off to go explore. While the Indoraptors went to explore the territory Anky decided to stick by my side as I walked around getting familiar with the place. Eventually we reached a small building that looked exactly like of the Research and Development labs in Konoha. Going in I saw it had a computer incubators, five separate training rooms and a monitor room. Everything I need really. I decided it was time to start hatching my eggs and loaded Stegoceratops, Parasaur, Igaunodon, Triceratops and Pachy eggs in the incubators. I wanted to start with herbivores first just to get a feel for hatching and raising animals first. Afterwards I played with Anky for a bit before heading back to the main house.
I then summoned Shirodaki, Bahgeera of the Big Cats, and Sobek of Crocodilians. We had a lengthy discussion on how me being a summoner for all three would play out and eventually after hours of arguing, they all agreed to sharing me as a summoner. Technically I should have done this during the war but with everything happening I kinda just let it slip. Once that was done I went to go train, wanting to master all of my elemental manipulations. I also needed to practice my Wood Release as well. I had to be the best afterall.
"So how was your first two weeks as a clan head?" I looked toward my kage with a look of pure disgust. Minato was wearing his standard Jonin outfit except he had his new Hokage cloak on and looked completely unbothered with our predicament. Mikoto and I were alongside him absolutely freezing in the ridiculous cold of the Land of Iron. We were on the final day of travel to the Gokage Summit and I couldn't wait to get there as the snow cloaks given to us in Konoha proved virtually useless.
"It's been… a lot. I'm constantly busy handling mission requests and rejecting marriage proposals, I'm still trying to get to know everyone in my clan and their skills, I haven't even had my jonin ceremony yet people still keep bothering about training their child, I have my Fuinjutsu trials to complete, Kizashi thinks I'm ready to learn some more jutsu, Tsunade seems to hold me as the second best medic in the village and wants me to learn some secret technique, I'm preparing for a bunch of freaking hatchlings, and I have to manage your personal guard squad which by the way I have no idea why I'm on and Kakashi somehow isn't.
"Well Kakashi is on Kushina's and Suki's protection detail. So yeah, that's that. Hmm as for everything else how about we do another trial on the way back? You did the 6th, 7th and 8th trials on the way here with relative ease, I'm sure you can do at least the 9th and maybe even the 10th. As for everything else hire an assistant for the paperwork, that little girl who follows you around the village would be perfect. Tsunade and Kizashi can work some sort of training plan with Kushina and I so that you have more time to relax, if need be, just let me know." I hated Minato for that, always coming up with the answer in the most innocently calm ways.
We continued to discuss this until we reached the headquarters of the Samurai. The location was interesting, the three mountains that made up the outside were shaped like the mouths of three dragons. Samurai met us outside and led us to our quarters inside. The enter base was made of cold stone and seemed very cold. Quickly we changed out of our travel clothes and into our more standard clothing. I had decided to bring my gloves and gauntlets just in case considering this was a meeting with the five kage, and I needed to be absolutely prepared. Once changed we were escorted to the meeting room where a massive table sat. Looking around I saw we were the last to arrive, Minato quickly apologized and took his seat, while Mikoto and I jumped into the stands above. Each Kage then placed their hats on the table before the meeting began.
Looking around I recognized each of the Kage. The first was the Tsuchikage who sat directly across Minato. He was shorter than any man I'd ever met but he wasn't by any means weak. He looked to be a little younger than Hiruzen and any injuries he sustained in his battle with Ay and Bee had healed. He gave off an aura of hostility towards Minato as soon as he entered. Mikoto's Sharingan was trained on him and spinning rapidly, ready to intervene at any chance. Next to him on the right was an auburn haired women, who went by the name of Mei. This deeply confused a lot of people, but she was basically only there to garner support for the rebels the actual Mizukage apparently declining. On her right was Minato who looked as calm and levelheaded as ever. Next to him was Rasa, another new Kage from the Hidden Sand. He was cold, borderline emotionless and the second biggest threat in the room in my opinion. Finally, there was the Raikage, Ay. He looked pissed and I could see he hadn't fully healed whether from the Battle of Fukaishizukesa or quelling the Two-Tails.
"Well then let us begin. We need to end this war with an outcome that is amicable to everyone. Here's what I proposed. Lord Raikage, since your village and mine rarely did extensive damage to one another until the very end, how about we allow you to formally surrender, and you pay us about 740 million Ryo and we'll call it even. For Iwa how about you just pay 2.3 billion Ryo, vacate the four territories you tried to steal from Suna. Kiri, since you seem to only be here to gain support for your war, we'll delay your payments and you can just pay us 1.6 billion Ryo once that wraps up, and we'll seek no further course of action." My jaw almost fell to the floor at how brazen Minato was being. The three Kage he addressed weren't as happy though and were actually fuming.
"How dare you brat. Who the hell gave you the idea you could speak like that in here." Growled the Tsuchikage.
"I did, when I killed over 1000 of your men single handedly, including your eldest son right?" Minato was much colder than when he first addressed them. Ohnoki, looked pissed at that.
"YOU GOD DAMN COCKY BASTARD! YOU COME IN HERE, STRUTTING IN HERE LIKE A FUCKING PEACOCK! MAKING DEMANDS OF US! YOU STILL HAVE TWO OF OUR MOST PRIZED SHINOBI, WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!" The Raikage stood quickly. Minato barely spared him a glance, as if dismissing him entirely.
"Such audacity. You have a lot of nerve brat." The vein on the Tsuchikage's forehead was bulging now.
"So bold. Such confidence must be backed by immense power." I didn't like how Mei Terumi eyed Minato. Feeling a slight aura of pure rage, I turned and saw Mikoto's fist were clenched and her Sharingan was spinning wildly.
"Mei-san, flattery will not get you out of our request or support in your war. Ohnoki-san you have a lot of nerve discussing my audacity, you've got to be kidding me. You started this war Ohnoki. So, I'm finishing it. Rasa-dono do you wish to add anything?" The Kazekage smirked.
"Add another 1 billion Ryo, then from Iwa."
"I think that's quite enough-"
! ! ! ! !
I immediately jumped in front of Minato an emergency seal forming a protective dome around him when an explosive kunai suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Tha Kazekage acted with haste and covered the kunai with gold dust before it went off. When it did everyone turned to me but I pointed up at the ceiling where a person was hanging upside down in black robes and a mask that resembled that of an Oni.
"What is the meaning of this!?" I yelled at the Shinobi. The other guards jumped in front of their Kage as well, Mikoto landing right next to me. His chakra wasn't even that large however something was up. Extending my senses, I found that we were surrounded by hundreds of Shinobi who had slaughtered the Samurai. "We're surrounded." Taking out my blade, I tried to search the signatures of our opponents and see if I could determine their identity. Eventually I found it and to say I was surprised would be an understatement.
"Lord Hokage, this is bad. There is at least four of the Seven Mist Swordsman, and two very large and powerful chakra signatures not belonging to anyone I recognize, as well as a bunch of ANBU level enemies and they have us surrounded. Permission requested to engage with them and wipe them out?" Minato looked at me before smirking.
"Yes, you may. Please alert me if you need assistance." I nodded before taking off.
Mission Alert
Protect your Hokage!
I didn't even look at the rewards or objectives just instantly accepting the mission. It was time to put the last two weeks of training to work and I wanted to test my ancestral blessing. Running down the halls I quickly entered the first room filled with several Pranja Shinobi from the Land of Wood, all of whom were likely trained by ANBU. When Minato took office, he integrated ROOT into the ANBU but not all of them wanted that life, a few rejoining the normal ninja corp or becoming civilians. However there were still a few loyal to Danzo who had never been delivered to the prison the day of council meeting. They most likely joined up with Danzo's secret cells around the world. The Pranja were one of those sleeper cells. Thankfully none of my friends had joined him Leone & Bear having actually joined the Onmitsukido, while Wolf and Shark were still recovering. Drawing my blade I activated Thunderclap and Flash: Infinite, the jutsu cloaking my legs and blade in lightning. I shot off and cut down the twenty of them with ease. Continuing to the next room I encountered the Kiri Hunter Nin. It didn't take much for me to do the same thing to them either.
The next shinobi I encountered were the two chakra signatures I couldn't ID. The first was a young man with red hair and the second was a man with a full face mask. Both wore black cloaks with red clouds on them.
"Sasori of the Red Sand and Kakuzu the Immortal Monster. Please excuse me." I rushed at them, before either could respond also creating two Wood Clones, Sasori immediately pulled out his Third Kazekage puppet and Kakuzu rushed forward to meet me as well. Unfortunately for the two of them I'd been expecting this and coated my left hand in lightning chakra when Sasori's puppet launched itself in front of me, I took my charged up hand and held it up right as Iron Sand began to be released Lightning Release: Kong Palm Pulse. Kong Palm Jutsuwas one of the techniques I got as a reward for the Ravine Battle. It normally worked by taking a large amount of chakra and forming a ring of it in their palm. That ring would then release a pulse of energy that has a massive concussive force. When combined with lightning chakra it becomes the chakra version of an electromagnetic pulse, traveling into the chakra network of my opponent and disrupting the flow temporarily, it also forces the muscles to tighten immensely rendering my opponent inert for about a minute.
Kakuzu was smart to dodge it entirely the man was a master of the five elements, he'd be able to take guess as to what it did but Sasori was not. He tried to use the Third Kazekage's iron sand to block it but the pulse traveled through the sand, his puppet, and his chakra strings before reaching his body. He was absolutely horrified when he fell face first into the ground unable to move.
Turning towards Kakuzu I saw him engage in combat with Wood Clones, both of whom were putting up as best of a fight they could. His Earth Spear Jutsu not only maximize his attack power but also boosted his defensive capabilities as well. Knowing I needed to take out all five hearts at once, I decided to switch my approach. Charging both hands with earth natured chakra, I before rushed him, catching him off guard with a Shunpo to appear right in front of him faster than he was expecting. Kakuzu's reflexes were sharp though and he went to punch my head off my shoulders however tendrils of wood wrapped around his arms restricting them from moving. I planted my Earth Release: Seismic Kong Palm into his chest and sent a wave of seismic vibration into his chest. The vibration destroyed one heart before traveling through his body and revealing the location of three more. I rapidly hit him three more times the concentrated seismic vibration causing his muscle and heart to contract suddenly restricting blood flow and causing them to burst. Leaping back I watched as Kakuzu spat out blood before a strange black creature blasted a gust of wind at me. Countering with my own Cyclone Palm a massive gust of wind formed kicking up debris and dust everywhere. When it cleared Kakuzu was harvesting the hearts of three samurai while his wind creature stood before me. Sasori was back up with his puppet though his stance indicated he was much more cautious.
"Hmmm, let's do this then." I began hopping on the balls of my feet warming myself up for this battle. These two were regarded as S Rank Shinobi and while Sasori wasn't as powerful as he was in the series from my old world they were still formidable opponents. Rapidly going through my hand signs, I launched ten Feral Flame Thorns at the three of them. The wind creature flew out of the way to dodge. Sasori was barely able to get up an iron sand wall to block a few of thorns, unfortunately for them some thorns just burnt through the sand and incinerated one of Kakuzu's tendrils preventing him from reclaiming all three hearts.
Sasori tried to return to favor sending multiple iron sand spikes at me. With my new speed I was easily able to dodge them. Kakuzu charged at me sending two more masked creatures at clones cutting them off from helping me. We engaged in Taijutsu with me activating Panther's Habit, Blut Vene and Blut Arterie at the same time. His Taijutsu wasn't the most impressive but his strength and defensive ability made up for it. His Earth Spear made the impacts of his strikes deadly enough that I couldn't drop my Blut technique for something more useful. Panther's Habit was collecting kinetic energy with each hit or block and I could feel the power rising. When Kakuzu realized we were pretty evenly matched he leapt back as large black spikes shot out of the ground towards me. Water Breathing Form Combination: Form 3 & 4: Flowing Tide, Striking Dance, my blade was covered in water and combining my techniques I was able to weave through the spikes dodging and cutting down a multitude of them before I reached the puppet and stabbed it with seals spreading on the puppet before activating. The Gravity Seal I placed on it forced it to the ground. Sasori looked panicked his puppet not responding, one Shunpo later and he'd been punched into the top of the walls, the impact making a decent sized crater. Kakuzu and his creatures all charged at me but I released an omnidirectional blast that sent them flying. Using Thunderclap and Flash I stabbed the wind creature's mask destroying it. Turning towards the fire creature I stabbed my blade into the ground, I sent a Lightning Release: Heat Lightning at the fire creature killing that as well. The lightning masked creature thinking I was distracted sent a bolt of lightning at me. Too slow. I spun rapidly another set of hand signs completed before my fist was coated in flames. Punching toward the bolt of lightning I watched as my Fire Release: Jetfire Fist burnt straight through the lightning and incinerated the monstrosity. Trying to capitalize on what he thought was an opportunity Kakuzu rushed me from behind, Danger Sense barely registering him as a threat and sending a small warning. Without really moving I sent my chakra into the ground, resulting in massive wooden tendrils immediately emerging from the floor tearing through the stone, intent on skewering Kakuzu who could only backflip away as they relentlessly chased after him.
"Is that the best you got?" I smirked. "You must've fought Hashirama when he was sick, there's no way you should have even survived, if this is the best you can do." That pissed him off, the rage in his eyes solely focused on me but we both knew I was right. He couldn't touch me as is, there was no way he beat my great grandpa. The man was getting his assed kicked badly and I think even he realized he needed to spend more time training instead of dwelling in the past. Watching as he began calculating his next move, I smirked when he began sweating, coming to the realization that continuing this fight was useless. Cutting his losses, he grabbed the masks, sealed the puppet and picked up Sasori before leaving, retreating back to wherever they came from. Sheathing my blade. I ran toward the room where I knew the Seven Swordsmen had been. Hopefully they offered a better fight.
Unfortunately, my luck had ran out, when I got there, I saw the Mist Swordsmen had been defeated by one of the Raikage's guards and one of the Rebels guards. Neither looked to bad off. The Kumo guard was one of the tallest men I'd ever seen in this world standing at around 6'7". He had short spikey blonde hair and deep green eyes like mine used to be. His beard wasn't super long but filled his face nicely. He was wearing a purple button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his forearms showing of his Irezumi tattoos on both arms. The right had a what looked to be a dragon and the left had a what looked to be a koi fish, but I couldn't really tell since it was going upward to his shoulder. They were pretty sick to be honest, I'd look into getting my own when we got home. He wore black pants and dress shoes, that you typically wouldn't see on a shinobi, but he wore them well. I was more than slightly annoyed, felling like the had kill stole from me. The rebel from Kiri was just as tall and somehow even more muscular than the one from guy from Kumo. He wore their standard light grey chest armor over top their dark grey shirt, his being sleeveless. On his forearms were two silver braces, while his bicep had a thin gold ring on them. His arms had tattoos as well twin dragons one red and the other blue were intertwined wrapping around him from his hand to shoulder on the right arm. His left had several rose that wrapped around his bicep. His crimson hair was spikey and reached his upper back. I wouldn't be surprised if he had Uzumaki blood in him.
Reaching out with my chakra sense, I saw our enemies were either dead or had retreated. Hmph bunch of wimps. "Hmm, welp might as well head back."
"Agreed."
"Hn."
The three of us began heading back to the conference room chatting like old friends. Raien was pretty cool and smart as well. He was a rising star in Kumo having killed an S-Rank from Iwa and changing the tide of battle. The 19 year old man reminded me a lot of my father in the way he carried himself. Akaru, on the other hand was very stoic only talking when we directly addressed him. He was 18 and had the demeanor of a thirty year old. They both were pretty chill, and I offered them the chance to visit whenever. I wanted to test myself against both of them. Walking passed the many corpses and injured shinobi I felt bad, I would've helped the samurai, but apparently shinobi weren't allowed to interfere with samurai business. "Hmph, they're so prideful and stupid."
"Agreed." Raien stated a smirk on his face.
"Hn." Akaru also had a slight smirk amused by my annoyance.
When we got back, we took our seats behind our Kage. For the next three hours the debated before an agreement was reached. The Raikage, agreed to formally surrender, and paid us about 500 million Ryo, the other 240 being given to us in the form of a scroll with 15 jutsu and five Shinobi as part of an exchange program. Albis and Tsukomi were included in that deal as well as two genin, Yusuke and Touya both of whom came from Kiri before being "rescued" by Kumo. The last shinobi was the most surprising, it was Raien. He actually volunteered apparently having been on the outs with people in Kumo for not participating in the Battle of Fukaishizukesa due to his injuries. Iwa had agreed to pay just pay 2 billion Ryo to Konoha, and vacate the two of territories they stole from Suna, whom they gave 1 billion ryo. They avoided the other 300 million by giving us scrolls on Explosion Release & Lava Release. Kiri, being unable to make any formal moves since they were technically rebels weaseled their way out of their debt until the war was settled, however Minato was not one to leave empty handed so Mei gave him the only thing she had to give, Akaru. This slightly appeased my Hokage but he did have Mei sign a 750 million Ryo contract for supplies from Konoha so we could get something out of that mess, guaranteed. The meeting ended in a decisive victory for Konoha and we were pretty ecstatic that it did so.
After the meeting on the way back to our quarters Minato handed me a scroll and asked me to go into the village a couple miles away and procure some resources for Konoha at a few different locations. Akaru and Raien decided to tag along under the guise of learning about Konoha, when in reality it was due to the possibility of them being sent to harm our Hokage when we had yet to fully vet them. When we got to the village, I immediately bought the materials he requested. Most of it being ore and other weapon building material, which this land was famous for. Raien and Akaru, asked me a multitude of questions about the village and our lifestyle, to which I answered the best I could. They seemed so surprised by the emphasis of community, especially when I told them about how we had a civilian council with some power. It made sense as they came from the two most militant villages, I couldn't wait till they saw it in person.
When we had finished and scheduled the arrival of the goods back to our village, we returned to the samurai base, and began heading to our quarters. All the other parties had left except for us. Sighing I looked up and saw the sun setting, sighing I felt slightly annoyed as I wanted to go home today but the night would make that unnecessarily dangerous for no reason. When we got to our quarters, I had the boys wait outside before heading in. What I saw shocked the hell out of me. Several candles were lit giving a sensual air to the room while Minato sitting on the bed in his boxers, going over a piece of paper while an extremely sweating and naked Mikoto laid next to him, her lower body covered by blankets while her upper body was extremely visible.
"Shhh, don't wake her up. Also before you get mad Kushina already gave us permission, we've been doing this since you were in a coma. Anyway, I have a job for you and your Onmitsukido." Before I could offer a retort the paper was shoved in my hands and what I saw shocked me. A 500 million Ryo job request for the Onmitsukido that I would've done for free. Kiri was requesting that the Onmitsukido help assassinate a few shinobi and sabotage the loyalists' efforts. There was only one man, who I was gunning for, and he was on the top of the list.
"I accept." I didn't even have to think about it. Count your fucking days Yagura because they're extremely fucking numbered.
Author Note:
Hey y'all this chapter is officially the end of the Third Great Ninja War Arc. The next Arc will be the Hikari's Ascension Arc and focus will be on our main character's ascension as a Shinobi. Thank you for reading up until now and I promise there are some great things yet to come. I still need a Beta Reader so if anyone is interested please DM me so we can see if it would be a good fit. Now then for the first time I'm going to respond to a few reviews that stood out to me. I'll be doing this at the end of each chapter from now on. Feel free to read them if you want.
Johnduffy7878: Thanks for the compliment. I'm still working on the romantic aspects so hopefully they get better, and more enjoyable.
TrumpasaurusRex: Thanks for being a loyal reader. I get you don't like the multiple gamer plotline but I don't care. It's my story and I'm going to do what I want. You commenting on it every chapter won't change anything so please stop reading or start leaving a different review. It's very annoying to be honest.
Grimmouse197: I never stated my OC was OP. A lot of characters are going to receive buffs as I want my OC to fight a range of matches from ones they're prepared for like in this chapter and one where they just have to do anything they can to survive.
Everyone complaining about the genderbend and especially Ahtu: This is my story and we are at the beginning of Hikari's story. It might seem like they aren't struggling but we'll explore that as time goes on. However it literally does nothing to the plot at this point. If your butt hurt about it too bad just don't read it. Calling me a creep for not putting it the summary when that seemed to invite more people to shit review me is unnecessary and childish. Whenever you get to a point where you say. I don't like this story do me a favor. Stop reading and ignore it. It's literally just fiction, fan fiction at that.