Chapter 3-Justice Be Done
(Konoha-4 Year Ago)
"You know what needs to be done Itachi?" said the Sandaime Hokage, as he handed the Uchiha his assignment, and the young man nodded knowing it was going to be one of the most difficult assignments of his Shinobi career.
"And the stipulations I asked for will be honored?" said Itachi seeing the Hokage nod.
"Yes. Sasuke will be allowed to live since he is an innocent child in the matter and so will the others that survive. No one will know of the Uchiha's plans to rebel coming to light," said the Hokage while Itachi nodded and left the office with Danzo entering moments later.
"This is a dangerous game Hiruzen," said Danzo since he knew of the deal the Hokage made with Itachi.
"It has to be done Danzo. Or do you want the Uchiha to cause open rebellion and make Konoha look weak in the process?" said the Hokage with Danzo scowling.
"His younger brother must be kept an eye on. We need to ensure the boy's loyalty after this happens is absolute," said Danzo with the Hokage nodded.
"And he will be kept an eye on by our Shinobi. After the Uchiha Clan has been liquidated down to smaller more controlled numbers, we will issue a special protocol where they will be given special treatment, and almost spoiled to the point that they could get in any other village. That they rely on the Leaf village to give them what they want and in time they will do anything to keep their high status. If they decide to one day rise higher to the point where they can be our equals, then we will have to simply 'coincidentally stumble' upon damaging evidence, and make them fall from grace," said the Hokage with Danzo smirking at him.
"You assume your future successor will agree to this continued policy," said Danzo with Hiruzen smirking back.
"Its a secret requirement I'm initiating for all successors to the title of Hokage to accept," said the Hokage since he was going to set certain requirements for his successor aside from embracing the truth behind the Uchiha Clan's fall and resurrection.
"And if they meet all your stipulations accept this one?" said Danzo knowing that was always a possibility.
"Then they simply get sent on a simple mission to clear their head on the matter where by chance an...accident happens and they die while taking the secrets they know to their grave," said the Sandaime seeing Danzo nodding since that was the general way to get rid of a potential risk to village security in exposing secrets.
"If Itachi were to learn of this, he will believe we've perverted his sense of 'justice', and may turn on us," said Danzo with Hiruzen frowning at him.
"He won't. Itachi loves his brother too much to risk anything happening to the boy no matter what we do in keeping Sasuke here," said the Hokage though Danzo wasn't so sure.
"And if by chance you're wrong?" said Danzo with the Sandaime scowling at him.
"Then we simply remove Itachi from play on the grounds that he faces 'justice' for the slaying of his clan. I'll use his own principles against him," said the Sandaime Hokage knowing Jiraiya will get in contact with Itachi afterwards and thus can keep a close eye on the Uchiha in case the man needed to be removed from play.
Justice would compel Itachi to slay his clan and it would be justice that would make the Uchiha pay for his 'crime' against them.
If there was one thing Uchiha Itachi loved more then pocky, it was the concept of justice, and how no one could run from it. When you committed a crime, justice would always find a way to reach out, grab you by the collar of your shirt, and kick you in the ass if not somewhere else considering justice was rumored to be blind. Such a principle had been around for quite awhile, a philosophy Itachi had embraced when the Yondaime Hokage was in power, and long after the man's death. It was what allowed him to endure all the hardships of being a Shinobi, to advance himself from Genin to Chuunin, and Jounin all the way to ANBU such a young age. A Prodigy the Uchiha Clan people kept on repeating time and time again. Some said he would one day be Hokage. The Sandaime Hokage's new successor to fill the big shoes of the Yondaime and even keep the demon brat in line should he get to bold. Not that Itachi believed Naruto to be a monster like they kept on saying, but something great, and the potential to match.
But what was true justice to Uchiha Itachi?
For the Uchiha Prodigy, it was definitely not being found in Konoha, and the Hokage was making sure it was being denied to Naruto. Itachi had seen more then his fair share of the abuse Naruto was going through, had to intervene himself while keeping it hidden with the help of his ANBU mask hiding his real identity from many of those that hated the boy, and that included many of the Shinobi in Konoha too. Itachi had every intention of watching over the kid when time allowed when not on missions or training to get stronger under his own power. However, the Sandaime Hokage seemed to figure out the identity of the boy's secret guardian, and the Uchiha Clan was getting a bit aggressive. Something Itachi knew the Sandaime Hokage had noticed along with the rest of Konoha's governing body, and clan was making waves many felt weren't needed right now.
It was around that time, the Sandaime Hokage with Danzo, and the Shinobi Council had asked him to do something to put this situation to rest. The Hokage had apparently tried to be diplomatic about this situation, but the Uchiha Clan was making demands, which the Sandaime wouldn't give, and thus was forcing his hand to do what many Kages in his position would call a necessary evil to ensure the village wasn't torn in half. Itachi had agreed since he had been at some of the meetings his Father had with the clan and was not happy to hear what was spoken.
So with great reluctance...Itachi agreed to the mission presented before him.
Wipe out most of the Uchiha Clan.
When the order came down, Itachi knew he had to be patient when the time came to do his duty to the village, and knew that for his mission to be successful the majority of the clan had to be in the Uchiha District. It was then Madara came to see him, asking about his progress, and the affairs of Konoha like he was expecting something to happen since their last meeting. Itachi knew he needed Madara's help. Without question the Uchiha knew it was the only way to ensure the mission went off without a snag. So Itachi had asked Madara for help and the man agreed without pause in his step like it was something he planned to do from the start regardless if Itachi did it himself.
Soon, the time came for the night where slaying the Uchiha Clan would happen, which was the final meeting his Father wished to have before the intended coup, and all of the Uchiha Clan with the exception of Sasuke had been accounted for. Not that Sasuke would be harmed due to his innocent naive nature of what was going on with the clan itself and Itachi believed his brother like the rest of the children would be spared so it could rise to heights once more.
Sadly, Madara had put a stop to that while Itachi had dealt with the adults, and thus had forced things to spiral out of control. Itachi's Mother had tried to stop parent and child from fighting each other despite the fact she knew the clan was in the wrong. Still, she had followed her duties to being loyal to the man she married, and kept her mouth shut instead of going to the Hokage from the start. It was wrong. Mikoto knew it was wrong to side with the clan, but what choice did she have in the matter? Even if she did go to the Hokage, the man was the reason behind the Uchiha wanting to do this in the first place, and his so called negotiations had been fruitless at best if not insulting at the very worst.
Not that it mattered at the time of the proclaimed massacre, as her own husband had been the one to end her life, and thus made Itachi react by ending him with ruthless precision. By that point, Sasuke had shown up to see the massacre happen, seeking his parents for answers to this horror, and found Itachi standing over their fallen bodies. Itachi did not really know why he warped Sasuke's mind with his Sharingan Eyes, but deep down the man felt Sasuke's running away was like his Father, who Itachi knew had done before in the past rather then face a stronger enemy to defend the village, and for the older of the two (officially remaining) members of the Uchiha Clan found it unacceptable. For Itachi, an Uchiha faces his enemy with honor, defends the Leaf village no matter the rank, and regardless if there is a reward for the effort.
Sasuke had done nothing of the sort. It was inexcusable! So for that reason alone, Itachi had warped his brother's mind with pain, and suffering knowing when the time came the boy would seek him out. They would fight each other, but regardless of the outcome, the slayer of the Uchiha Clan knew justice would be served with righteousness, and given the nature of the crime that started it...without mercy!
(Present Time)
That was then. This was now!
"Why do you think they are heading towards the ruins of Whirlpool Country Itachi?" said Kisame with the Uchiha just looking at the sea while on the boat with his partner while in pursuit of Uzumaki Naruto.
"I don't know. It doesn't matter. We will follow and capture him," said Itachi simply with the blue skinned man grinning from ear to ear.
"Shame we have to considering he'd make a good addition to the group if the rumors of what he did are in fact true," said Kisame having heard the rumors from spies of Naruto being the one to kill the Sandaime Hokage though Pein was skeptical.
"Indeed. Naruto finally unleashed justice upon Konoha and took out a key player in its corruption. Perhaps we should ask Pein to revive him after extracting Kyuubi from him," said Itachi with Kisame grinning.
"Yeah. Wouldn't that make Konoha look bad. Three Missing Nin join the Akatsuki with one leaving and only then it was because you had to get violent with Orochimaru," said Kisame while Itachi narrowed his eyes while staring at the sea.
"Orochimaru brought it upon himself Kisame. He tried to take from me what should not be his to take simply to satisfy the desires in his heart," said Itachi knowing justice had been trying to reach Orochimaru for quite awhile and Naruto had made it happen with the Sannin's death.
"Yeah. The guy freaked me out too. No sense of taste. And that tongue of his? Don't get me started on that!" said Kisame while Itachi held back a smirk.
"I'll remember that when you upset me and I need to make my point get across with you using the power of my eyes," said Itachi while Kisame's face went pale knowing what he meant by that.
(With Naruto)
Naruto arrived with his group of now Missing Nin in Whirlpool without further delay after the altercation with the Leaf Shinobi once leaving Fire Country, as they stopped by Wave Country to acquire a boat to take them there, and looked far from destroyed like people spoke to the contrary. On the outside, from the sea itself, Whirlpool did look like it was ruined, but once they docked the ship, the illusion was shattered, and the sight of a growing country could be seen before them. Tsunade felt something in her blood stir at seeing Whirlpool like this, as she too had Uzumaki blood running through her veins, and it seemed to awaken just from the sight alone. The last time Tsunade felt like this, she still had a connection to Konoha, and the people she loved were still alive.
'Kushina. Grandmother. Is this what you felt for your home when living here?' thought Tsunade while seeing its people, both Shinobi, and civilians thriving here like nothing had happened years ago.
"We have been slowly swelling the ranks of the populous for the past 3-4 years give or take a few Months. Some Shinobi are survivors of the Bloodline Civil War, who needed refuge, or Missing Nin that left their village for the less then honorable decisions made. As for the civilians...well they felt their own countries were less the hospitable to them given the times and wished to seek a place where their skills could be placed elsewhere," said Naruto while passing shops, stores, and various other good selling wares.
"Why would they feel unwelcome in their own country?" said Shizune while seeing some of the more exotic goods.
"I don't know why. The various Daimyos have all been less then nice to the less fortunate members of society while the politicians and the rich bleed such people dry. I found them on my travels and offered them a place here in Whirlpool," said Naruto simply before he stopped and frowned slightly.
"Something wrong?" said Tsunade seeing him look in the direction behind them.
"No. Its just something I have to take care of sooner then later. Haku. Would you be so kind as to show our new guests to the Uzukage and help get things situated," said Naruto with Haku bowing before escorting the others to Zabuza while the Uzumaki himself went in a different direction.
Not that faraway, two figures looked at each other for a moment, then at their target, and proceeded to follow him with a sense of caution in their step.
(Training Ground #2)
"Uzumaki Naruto," said the shorter of the two figures while the blonde just looked at them with a grin on his face.
"How have you been Itachi-san? The life of a Missing Nin treating you well the past four years?" said Naruto with Itachi nodding though he felt the life was draining at times.
"I manage. Though considering your current actions in slaying the Sandaime, you are not exactly welcome in Konoha either, and are now a marked man," said Itachi with Kisame grinning further.
"Considering how he betrayed my trust, he deserved his death, and you of all people are in no position to complain. He and the Councils did pervert your vision of how things were suppose to happen after you killed your clan," said Naruto seeing Itachi nod since that was true though how the blonde knew that truth the Uchiha did not know.
"How did you discover my desire if you don't me asking?" said Itachi with Naruto pulling out a book that was the Sandaime Hokage's personal journal he had acquired after the old man left for the stadium the day of the Chuunin Exam Finals.
"The Sandaime Hokage was very thorough in his work in writing everything down in the event such evidence was needed to help himself or hurt those around him," said Naruto having read the dated paragraph where Itachi told the Sandaime his reason for agreeing to the liquidation of his clan.
"I see," said Itachi while his anger over the old man's disregard for turning his noble act into something twisted.
"Enough talk Itachi! Pein wants this guy captured and that's what we're going to do," said Kisame before grabbing Samehada from his back.
"For the Kyuubi," said Naruto simply while their eyes widened in surprise.
"You know?" said Itachi with Naruto smirking at him.
"Its not hard to figure out Itachi. You need me for something, but that something is sealed inside of my body, and there is only one thing sealed inside my body anyone would want to have in their possession. Tell me Itachi...where is the justice in that?" said Naruto with Itachi stiffening and prevented Kisame from moving forward with an outstretched hand.
"What do you mean?" said Itachi with Naruto shrugging at him.
"I mean where is the justice in kidnapping me when I refuse to come with you to your Boss because he wants what I have inside my body? By doing this, you serve someone, who is no better then Konoha in wanting to use me, if only for a brief time, and then no doubt cast my person away once my purpose has ended. Like I was nothing. Where is the justice in that Itachi?" said Naruto with Itachi going deep in thought about this.
"Justice my ass! I'm this for the power. You're either a shark in this world or a fish that gets eaten by the sharks," said Kisame while Itachi narrowed his eyes and saw Naruto was looking at him expectedly.
"Kisame," said Itachi simply to get the man's attention while Naruto kept on smirking at him.
"What?" said Kisame turning to look at his partner in crime.
"Goodbye.'Tsukuyomi!'" said Itachi turning his head to look at Kisame with Sharingan active and that was all the Mist Shinobi would see before darkness claimed him with the sound a sword cutting through flesh being heard throughout the training ground.
"You're cutting all ties with the Akatsuki? Just like that?" said Naruto curiously.
"Yes. The path of justice cannot be obtained by siding with the Akatsuki. The fastest path to justice is the path I walk. What Pein has in mind for using the Biju will take too long and it is not justice. I only joined to protect myself from Hunter Nin seeking to collect my bounty," said Itachi with Naruto nodding.
"And your eyes? How are they?" said Naruto with Itachi stiffening again.
"Kyuubi told you about the curse of our Sharingan Eyes I take it?" said Itachi simply with Naruto's smirk growing.
"In the event I had to face someone like you or someone with it," said Naruto with Itachi nodding.
"My eyesight is nearly lost. It won't be long before I'm completely blind. To be honest, I don't really care for eyesight, and seeing the idiots of the world smiling has always been something of a distaste that comes with it," said Itachi seeing Naruto look sad by this, but nodded in understanding, and motioned for Itachi to follow him Uzukage Tower.
(Uzukage Tower)
"You wish to join Whirlpool?" said Tsunade having been in the office with Shizune with both women being on guard against the Uchiha since he had killed his entire clan.
"Yes. Officially, I am a Missing Nin of Konoha, and now soon to be considered a former agent of the organization once I fail to report in with Kisame," said Itachi before giving Zabuza the sealing scroll holding Kisame's body with another holding the late Missing Nin's sword.
"And unofficially?" said Tsunade seeing Itachi look at Naruto, who nodded to him to tell them everything, and proceed with this...confession?
"I am a spy for Konoha. To infiltrate the Akatsuki, learn its secrets, purpose, and what they want with the nine Biju. Though I doubt the reason for knowing is not honorable like they want me to believe," said Itachi with the group in the room grimacing since it was most likely true.
"They want to know what the Akatsuki have planned so they can prevent it and yet use their own tactics to gain the Biju for themselves," said Tsunade with Itachi nodding since he got that feeling too.
"The nine were originally from Konoha under the supervision of the Shodaime Hokage himself. Your Grandfather then scattered eight of the nine to the other Shinobi villages to promote peace and prevent the other villages banning together to take them in a violent war Tsunade-sama," said Itachi while Naruto frowned at this information and Kyuubi did too since he didn't like being used.
"And now the powers that be want them all back again under one roof. All nine Biju in nine vessels, who are all submissive, and loyal to them like attack dogs," said Naruto with his voice being dangerously low with anger laced in it.
"How do you want to proceed Naruto?" said Zabuza with the boy's scowl leaving for a smile that spoke of wicked things running around in the Uzumaki's skull.
"Simple. We do what Konoha planned to do, but in a different way, and different result from the end of such a plan," said Naruto seeing them looking at him intently.
"You wish to bring the other Jinchuriki here? Even Yagura?" said Zabuza while seeing Naruto nod.
"Unlike their villages, Whirlpool will not treat them like weapons, but rather as people, and unlike the Akatsuki we will give them a choice. If they say no, then we simply move onto the next Jinchuriki, and deliver the offer while keeping tabs on them for when the Akatsuki do come around. Just because they turn down the offer doesn't mean we leave them to fighting the organization alone without backup. As for Yagura, I do not believe his actions are his own, and I sense something amiss with his behavior. If I am incorrect, then the man will be dealt with accordingly, and will handle the return of the three-tails when it resurfaces upon the Mizukage's death," said Naruto while the others saw how that could help them in the long run.
"There is one more thing. Uchiha Madara is the one behind Kyuubi's attack years ago. He killed the Sandaime Hokage's wife and the bodyguards watching over your Mother," said Itachi making everyone look at him with surprise.
"Are you sure? Uchiha Madara is suppose to be dead!" said Tsunade seeing Itachi nod.
"He came to me at least a year before the order came down to kill the rest of my clan to offer me a position in his organization. Offered to train me and even assisted in killing members of my clan when the time came when he visited to check on my progress," said Itachi knowing this was a lot to take in all at once.
"Where is there base of operations? Being so high up a member you would have gone there," said Tsunade with Itachi looking at her for a second.
"Its in Ame. Underneath it to be exact. While Uchiha Madara is the real leader via the shadows, the official leader of the Akatsuki is a man by the name of Pein, and he killed Salamander Hanzo to take control of Ame. While not as strong as Madara himself, Pein possesses the Rinnegan Eyes, and is stronger then myself," said Itachi with this piece of information shocking everyone.
Even Naruto.
"The Rinnegan? But...how can he possess such a Dojutsu? Its a myth isn't it? Such an eye is only that of legend," said Shizune while Naruto shook his head.
"The Sage of Six Paths was also considered a legend too, yet many believe he existed, and had a hand in creating the nine Biju," said Naruto simply while Tsunade could only concede to that fact since it was true.
"How many members are there in the group?" said Zabuza curiously.
"Aside from myself and Kisame until now? Pein, a woman by the name of Konan, and Madara under the alias Tobi. Orochimaru was once with the organization for a time, but after an...altercation with me, he left the Akatsuki to go on his own, and I was under the impression two more recruits would soon arrive though when that it is I don't know," said Itachi with Naruto thinking things over in his mind.
"Perhaps you still can. They have no way of knowing if you abandoned the organization, correct?" said Naruto with Itachi nodding.
"Correct," said Itachi while wondering where Naruto was going with this.
"Then I suggest doing what you've been doing since joining the Akatsuki and spy on the organization for us. You were already doing it for Konoha and you can now do it for us. However, since Jiraiya will need to be convinced you still spy for him, any information you give the Sannin must be partially accurate, and provide us with who is going after which Jinchuriki. With Kisame dead, they will need to put you with a new partner, and no doubt make another attempt in capturing me when not going after the Biju. We can use this to kill more of the organization's members on the disguise of being slain during the attempts on myself if not the other Jinchuriki," said Naruto seeing Itachi nod, as he could do that, and just long enough until the Akatsuki was weakened to the point where Naruto could deliver the final blow.
"I doubt they will believe the lie of Naruto killing Kisame since he was tougher then most of the other Seven Swordsmen of the Mist. The official story will be he was defeated by Senju Tsunade shortly after recruiting her and Shizune to his little group with teamwork being the key to his death," said Zabuza with Itachi nodding at using this cover story due to it being believable.
"One more thing Itachi. Do you know your sword's name?" said Naruto with Itachi now looking startled by the question.
"How did you know I could talk to it?" said Itachi with Naruto smiling at him.
"You are not the only one granted such power. As to question...yes? No?" said Naruto curiously.
"I can hear my sword's voice, but not its name, and I can feel with each day my blindness gets stronger the possibility of hearing it increasing. I can only conclude that in order to hear its name, I must first be denied eyesight, and see beyond what my eyes see in front of me now," said Itachi with Tsunade and Shizune looking a tad confused by the question and conversation they were having in front of them.
"Then that is clearly the price you must pay Itachi," said Naruto simply with Itachi just nodding his head.
"It is something I made peace with the moment I learned of the effect of using the power of the Sharingan in that manner," said Itachi with Naruto smirk increasing slightly.
"And your brother?" said Naruto curiously.
"Sasuke has been perverted from the vision I wanted him to become when I laid the path to redeeming the Uchiha Clan. When the time comes...he will die," said Itachi knowing it was going to cross each others path again one day.
Only the next time it happens it would be for the last time.
(Konoha)
"This is disturbing news. Senju Tsunade has joined our enemies and all out of spite! She should know her loyalty is to this village and not the Kyuubi brat just because he is her supposed Godson," said Homura with the others nodding in agreement.
"I say she gets put in the Bingo Book. S-Class Missing Nin just like Orochimaru was and Naruto himself will be SS-Class Missing Nin on account of his Jinchuriki status. We will put a bounty on both of them so high, even those closest to their hearts will sell them out for a small finders fee, and make things easier for us when we take them down," said a Civilian Council member with many nodding in agreement.
"What of Hyuuga Hinata? While Mitarashi Anko is of no concern in bringing back to the village given her past affiliation with Orochimaru, we can still save the Hyuuga girl from further taint by the demon brat, and bring her back to Konoha to be reeducated in manner befitting her station," said Koharu, as she saw many ponder this, and knew it would not be easy decision since the girl did possess the Byakugan.
"We will make the attempt to retrieve her and have Inoichi erase the memories she had being with the brat. Once that happens, her clan can place the Cage Bird Seal on the girl's head, and kept a close eye on in the event something still lingers within," said Danzo, as he saw many agreed with that approach, and Hiashi did too since he did not approve his daughter being with the Kyuubi Jinchuriki.
"What about the Uchiha? He's been asking for someone to train him to fight at Naruto's level? Not only that, but the other Rookies are asking questions, and their Jounin senseis are doing their best to avoid answering," said Tsume knowing how the Uchiha was now bitching about getting stronger so he could beat Naruto before facing off against Itachi.
"Have various Shinobi train the Uchiha. With his Sharingan Eyes active, he can learn things even faster, and with an arsenal of Jutsus under his belt will bring the demon brat down even further," said Homura while Jiraiya sighed and shook his head.
"It doesn't matter what you do, Naruto won't be taken down so easily, and there is the fact his illusionary powers can make us think we've hit him when in fact it could be the exact opposite," said Jiraiya having seen Orochimaru himself become fooled by the power of such illusionary skills.
"Nonsense! All the Uchiha has to do is use his Sharingan to break such things and then the Kyuubi Jinchuriki will become powerless," said Danzo while secretly hoping that his physical...alterations would be able to overpower the boy long enough to turn him into a obedient pet.
"Whatever. Since Tsunade isn't going to be Hokage, I will have to step in, and be it until someone much younger then myself can fill the shoes," said Jiraiya knowing it would upset Danzo and allow him to handle some things from this position of power.
Like backtracking Naruto's movements to the point where he found that sword and how he got stronger because of it. Jiraiya knew he had seen that weapon before, but for the life of himself, he couldn't think of where his eyes had seen it, and would need the position of Hokage to do that.
(Akatsuki HQ)
"Kisame is dead? How?" said Pein while his eyes staring into Itachi's own.
"Naruto along with his allies consisting of Orochimaru's former bodyguards, and Senju Tsunade of the Sannin fought the two of us. They used teamwork to keep me at bay and Kisame was overpowered with Tsunade smashing his face in with one of her well timed super strength enhanced punches. Being the best Medic Nin in the Elemental Countries, she knows where to strike with such hits, and where they can do the most damage," said Itachi while Pein narrowed his eyes at him.
"This is unfortunate. Kisame's death delays us from reaching our goal in gathering strong members for taking on the Jinchuriki of each Shinobi village. For now, we will be silent, and wait until our ranks swell again while gathering Intel on the location of each of the nine Jinchuriki," said Pein with Itachi nodding.
"Who will be my partner in pursing Uzumaki Naruto should the opportunity present itself again?" said Itachi since he was in need of a replacement partner.
"Sasori of the Red Sands will be your partner until we can find a suitable replacement on a permanent level where defeating someone of the Kyuubi Jinchuriki's level won't be too difficult," said Pein seeing one of the shadows in the room nod while Itachi silently let his muscles unclench from the fear of Pein pairing him up with Tobi.
"I understand," said Itachi knowing he and Sasori had no problems with each other since they both entered the organization.
(Hokage's Office)
"You wanted to see us Jiraiya?" said Kakashi seeing the Sannin turned Hokage nod while looking at him and Kurenai.
"Yes. When Naruto was on your team Kakashi, did you ever sense anything off about him, or any kind of Genjutsu around his body Kurenai?" said Jiraiya seeing the two shake their heads no.
"Never. My Sharingan was active twice when around him with the first being when we fought Zabuza the first time heading into Wave Country and then a second time on the incomplete bridge. Granted, the second time I was focused on Zabuza, and he had made the mist thicker then usual to combat my Sharingan Eye," said Kakashi seeing Jiraiya nod since there was a chance the mist had interfered in someway with the Sharingan and the fact there was even some mist during the first encounter according to the report Jiraiya read.
"I couldn't sense anything off about him and I'm one of the most skilled in Genjutsu for someone not of Uchiha blood. Granted, I wasn't around him a lot, but I was close enough during the Chuunin Exam Preliminaries to know if there was a Genjutsu on him, or some other illusionary ability we have yet to discover," said Kurenai with Jiraiya looking even more troubled.
"He also apparently cast the illusion over Hinata to make us see a shy girl, but if that is the case...how did such a power fool the Byakugan?" said Jiraiya making the two Jounin senseis look startled by this news since they just realized this too.
"Neji fought Hinata with his eyes practically at full power! If anyone should have seen through the illusion Naruto made it should have been him," said Kurenai while Jiraiya nodded in agreement.
"Meaning this power can fool even the Byakugan. The Hyuuga Clan isn't going to like this one bit," said Jiraiya knowing that was a headache waiting to happen.
"We need to find a means to combat Naruto and this power. Considering he's one of the nine known Jinchuriki in the Elemental Countries, perhaps we should try combating him with another Jinchuriki, and use the fights to study his power," said Kakashi thoughtfully while Jiraiya also thought about that course of action.
"Its possible. Though Suna won't let us do that, even if we've become allies again due to the circumstance behind them allying with Orochimaru, and wanting to prove they've still got the right to be one of the five major Shinobi villages. Kumo is out of the question due to Konoha being on thin ice with them after that deal to keep the peace roughly a decade ago and they'd probably ask for a Hyuuga again for compensation. Mist is currently in chaos so asking the Mizukage for help is out of the question since we all know what he thinks of bloodlines. The only other village, which has a Jinchuriki is a minor one named Taki, and that was because Tsunade's Grandfather gave them the Biju to promote peace after the failed attempt on his life by one of their Shinobi," said Jiraiya with both Shinobi interested in knowing more.
"Taki? Aren't they neutral or at least side in favor with us most of the time when conflicts around their country happen?" said Kakashi having heard the name of the village many years ago.
"Yes. I know their village leader. He's on good speaking terms with me and explain how the girl named Fu was chosen for being the vessel of for the seven-tailed beetle. Their Jinchuriki has been hassled by its people all her life and we can use it to our advantage in convincing them to let us borrow her for attacking Naruto. All we need to do is instill fear into the overall populace in the belief that our rogue Jinchuriki is just a sign of possible things to come, as all of the Jinchuriki may come to believe they are too powerful to be controlled, and I even use the Mizukage himself as a key example with his Bloodline Civil War he started shortly after taking office," said Jiraiya while thinking it over in his head.
"Also, it could be used as a good excuse to have the village send their Jinchuriki off on a mission she'll most likely never return from again, and even if this girl did we can always lie while turning her into one of our Shinobi," said Kakashi with Jiraiya agreeing since such a thing wasn't impossible to do if done correctly.
'That will be a contingency plan in the event Fu fails to defeat Naruto with her Jinchuriki powers," said Jiraiya knowing it was going to take a bit of sweet talking on his end when speaking to Taki's leader about this idea.
"I wonder what else Naruto has hidden from us. First, it was his real self, then Hinata's true appearance, and finally Anko with those two revealing themselves because they had nothing to hide anymore. But Naruto's had four years moving around under that illusion doing Kami only knows what, and could have done something else with it," said Kurenai with Jiraiya and Kakashi nodding since that fact was unmistakably true.
"Which is why we need to plan a way to take Naruto down," said Jiraiya before quickly dismissing the Shinobi from the room to bring about the proposed plan.
(Whirlpool Country-Hospital)
"Why didn't you tell us you had these two after Sound was destroyed?" said Jirobo seeing Jugo and Suigestu standing in the same room with Kimimaro being their to make sure the orange haired man sane while here.
"Would it have made a difference?" said Naruto simply while Tsunade examined both Shinobi that Orochimaru had taken an interest in.
"Maybe," said Jirobo before being elbowed by Tayuya.
"Shut your fucking mouth you fat ass!" said Tayuya while Naruto gave her a look of disapproval in his eyes.
"Language Tayuya. Use your Inner voice," said Naruto while Tayuya blushed and looked away from him.
"That voice probably swears just as badly," said Kidomaru with Tayuya glaring at him.
"More then likely. How do they look Tsunade? Are they healthy?" said Naruto while ignoring Tayuya's angry red face and focused on the two other individuals he had saved when in Rice Country.
"Both are healthy. Though from what I understand, Jugo here is the bases for the Curse Seal these four had, and his bloodline is currently unstable. I'll have to figure out a way to treat it, but until then, I'm suggesting he along with Kimimaro be roommates, and be near the other at all times until one can be discovered," said Tsunade with neither individual protesting that.
"What about me?" said Suigestu while seeing Naruto turning to look at him.
"What do you want to do now that you're free?" said Naruto with Suigestu thinking for a moment.
"I want to be one of the Seven Swordsmen!" said Suigestu finally since it had been his dream for a long time.
"Really? Interesting. Zabuza is officially dead, but is very much alive, and I won't allow him to be slain since he is the Kage of our village. Still...you yourself are a swordsman taught in Mist before Orochimaru got his hands on you and as such should have a weapon befitting such a right," said Naruto before taking the storage scroll that housed Samehada and throwing it to Suigestu.
"This is...!" said Suigestu once he saw the weapon in his hands.
"Sadly, the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist has been fractured beyond all repair, and thus members of the group are scattered to the wind. They are either dead or Missing Nin," said Naruto seeing Suigestu looking at the weapon in his hands.
"So where does that leave me exactly with this?" said Suigestu seeing Naruto smirk at him.
"Here of course. I was thinking of starting up my own version of the Seven Swordsmen here in Whirlpool. Since Zabuza is the Uzukage, I can't exactly have him leading both just yet until I take over for him when old enough, and we need recruits. You will be one of them Suigestu," said Naruto with the man looking thrilled to be part of something like this.
"Who else do you have in mind for candidacy?" said Suigestu curiously.
"Mitarashi Anko for one. Hyuuga Hinata when she's old enough and Momochi Haku in a few more years," said Naruto with Suigestu grinning like a perverted idiot.
"Sweet! In a few years I'll be surrounded by hot women! This is awesome," said Suigestu before being hit by an intense spiritual pressure from Naruto, which made the man turn to liquid, and only when did it stop did the swordsman solidify again.
"Try anything perverted with any of them and you will wish Orochimaru was still alive to experiment on your body," said Naruto with Suigestu stumbling a bit once returning to solid form.
"Right! Keep hands to myself. Got it!" said Suigestu while Naruto smirked once more and then refocused on the Sound Three though Kimimaro may rejoin the ranks to turn it into the Sound Four again.
Maybe the Sound Five if Jugo decided to join them too provided his condition didn't go beyond the realm of possible treatment by Tsunade of course.
"What's next on the agenda?" said Jirobo curiously.
"Finding the other Jinchuriki and offering them a true home here in Whirlpool where they will be treated with the respect they deserve," said Naruto before leaving the room.
(Suna)
"Is this information accurate?" said Baki seeing the report handed to him while Gaara sat in the hospital bed beside him still healing from the injuries Naruto delivered during the Chuunin Exam Finals.
They had been back for a little while in Suna, handling internal affairs after the report of the Kazekage found dead in the desert, and Orochimaru impersonating the man since that time. Gaara had been reflecting on his life after his defeat, escaping during the invasion, which never happened due to Naruto killing so many of their Shinobi, and Orochimaru's Sound Shinobi in the process before the signal was sent out. Now there was talk of who would replace the late Kazekage and Baki was currently the temporary replacement until it was decided on whether or not to make Gaara the man's successor.
"A little dated since we've been busy with our own problems, but it is still very accurate nonetheless, and the newest Bingo Book just came out," said the Suna Jounin, who gave Baki the report, and then showed the latest entries into its pages.
"I see. Even Senju Tsunade herself has been put in it and a mark on it saying her Sannin traveling rights have been revoked should she travel into Fire Country by Konoha," said Baki while Gaara was deep in thought about things.
"Baki," said Gaara at last.
"Yes Gaara?" said Baki turning to his student.
"Am I a monster like the village has always proclaimed me to be since birth?" said Gaara while Baki was surprised by the sudden question and it took a moment to think over a proper response.
"No. Gaara the reason why the village treated you so badly was due to your Father's own designs for Suna to achieve greater power. The village was dying financially and he was slowly going mad over the fact Konoha was taking it all away from us. After you had Shukaku sealed inside your body, he wanted you to become a living weapon in order to make Suna recognized once more as one of the great five Shinobi villages, and bring back lost clients. To do this, he felt you needed to be hated, and attacked on all sides to bring out the demon's power in manipulating the sand. You are only a monster if you choose to be one, but now that there is a chance of becoming Kazekage, and being the village's protector while ruling over the people of Suna," said Baki while Gaara was processing his words.
"I heard a rumor the Mizukage is a Jinchuriki like me and started the Bloodline Civil War to purge it of all bloodlines. Is this true?" said Gaara with Baki hesitating for a second.
"Yes its true. I theorize the Mizukage became spiteful of the village and decided to take it out on those with bloodlines since those with bloodlines are considered more of a threat to a Jinchuriki then those without them," said Baki with Gaara frowning slightly.
"I don't want to be a monster anymore, but I also don't think I can serve Suna either, and risk going mad with power should the title of Kazekage become mine," said Gaara with Baki nodding since the boy's instability up until now and the seat of power the title of Kazekage bestows could bring the red haired child up there with the three-tailed vessel in Mist.
"We'll find some measure of middle ground Gaara. If you don't want to be Kazekage in the future, I'll understand if its your decision, and no one will pressure you into it," said Baki knowing Temari or Kankuro could take over the position if the Jounin himself had decided to let one of the late Kazekage's children become the village's leader.
"Thank you Baki-sensei," said Gaara while trying to figure out his next move for himself regarding Shukaku.
"There is still the matter of your seal not being entirely stable," said Baki, as he had long since told the late Kazekage of how Gaara would probably be able to use the Biju's power if the seal were stronger, and the man told him to drop it.
"I do not wish to live my life like this anymore Baki-sensei. I want to know what it means to sleep without fear of Shukaku awakening to take control and dream without it turning into a nightmare," said Gaara while the pain in his shoulder echoed still through his body.
"Sadly, the only person truly capable of strengthening your seal would be Jiraiya of the Sannin. But maybe...," said Baki with a bit of afterthought while rubbing his chin.
"Maybe what?" said Gaara since he knew Baki was thinking of a possible alternative.
"It has long been said the Uzumaki Clan were skilled in the Sealing Arts and it was one of the reasons they were feared in the Elemental Countries. Since Naruto is apparently an Uzumaki, we could request he look at the seal, and strengthen it, and ultimately help you sleep better in the process," said Baki with Gaara thinking this over in his head.
"He is an enemy of Konoha," said Gaara knowing that killing the Sandaime Hokage, who was admired by many people, in the Leaf village during the Chuunin Exam Finals would have that effect on its people, and no doubt make its Shinobi hungry for the Uzumaki's blood.
"True. However, the new alliance treaty Kankuro helped write after we returned to Suna has yet to be signed due to Jiraiya being busy with other matters, and until its is signed we are officially neutral to them until that point. If you can reach Naruto and have him fix the seal before the treaty is signed then Suna will be safe from any political backlash in the event its discovered you went to him for help," said Baki knowing that the loophole was small like threading a needle, but it would be worth it to give this boy a chance to have some kind of normal life, and not be the insane monster the late Kazekage had so harshly envisioned.
"When will I be well enough to travel?" said Gaara knowing the sooner he could depart the better.
"Not for another couple of days at the least. Don't try to push it Gaara. I know you hate waiting, but I wouldn't say this unless it was true, and patience pays off in the long run," said Baki with Gaara nodding in agreement.
"I understand Baki-sensei and...thank you for putting up with me," said Gaara with the Jounin being surprised by the red haired boy's humble tone.
"Temari will accompany you when the time comes to find Naruto. However, if you are unable to find him before the alliance treaty is signed, return to Suna at once, and make sure no one knows of your reason for being away from Suna," said Baki seeing Gaara nod knowing Konoha would raise a fuss if they did once the alliance was made official.
Gaara nodded. Inside his head, Shukaku was nervous, pleading with the boy to not lock him away, and actually apologizing for making the kid an insomniac. Not that Gaara was not listening to him. He was going to be sane, yet strong enough to use the Biju's power properly, and Gaara had a feeling Uzumaki Naruto knew how that was possible.
All the red haired boy had to do was find and ask him.
(A/N: YAY! Another update. Hope you liked it. Now you understand Itachi a little better on his reasons for going along through with the liquidation of the Uchiha Clan. Until next time...PEACE!)