An: Again I would like to thank the people who take the time to review, they are really appreciated. S. o. t. A.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit
Chapter 44: Forging Alliances
Yakumo wasn't aware of how long she was asleep but she awoke slowly to the sound of people talking about her.
"…it really is remarkable," an unidentified female voice said.
"What is, Lady Hokage?" a voice she recognized as Kurenai's said.
"Ever since the mujina has been destroyed her body has been responding to her treatments far better than I would imagine considering her condition."
"Are you saying that her body is regaining the strength that it lost due to the sealing," Kurenai said.
"It's a little early to say, but that may be exactly what is happening," Tsunade replied, "If we continue to see results like this she will probably be as hearty as any other child her age."
"Does that mean she could enter the shinobi program?"
Tsunade noticed the girl's reaction to that question despite her still attempting to pretend to be asleep. Smiling she said, "Angling for a new member for your squad?"
"Well with Ami learning in Suna I thought …"
"To reconnect with your former pupil," Tsunade said before adding amused, "What do you think Yakumo?"
Making a small squeak of surprise Yakumo said, "Forgive me Lady Hokage."
"Don't worry about it," Tsunade replied.
"Can I really join Kurenai-sensei's team?" she asked hopefully.
"Well it's a little early to say for certain. However, if you continue to regain your strength at this rate it is possible. I'll like to run some tests before coming to a final conclusion as we don't know what exactly to expect. You may find that you do not even have a talent for genjutsu anymore."
"I would still like to learn from Kurenai-sensei, please," Yakumo said looking at her old teacher warmly.
"I'll take that under advisement," Tsunade said, "In the mean time, get some more rest."
"Actually, I would like to know what happened to my Uncle and his jounin," Yakumo said.
"I thought you might," Tsunade said before explaining where she was keeping him at.
Suna had been without a Kage since the failed invasion over a year previous. The Suna council was currently meeting to rectify the situation. Baki was only listening with half an ear as it was an argument that the council had been fighting over for almost the entire year.
"We need to pick one," an older councilor said angrily, "We are sending the message that we are weak if we cannot find a suitable candidate from our own ranks."
"Agreed," another said, "but who would you pick?"
"Perhaps Baki," Yura a relatively new councilor suggested.
Baki leaned forward saying, "I appreciate the vote of confidence. However, might I make a suggestion?"
The many councilors nodded so Baki said, "I think we should nominate Gaara for the position."
He watched as many of the councilors looked at him agape. Sighing in his head Baki began counting down in his head. He had just reached one when the first councilor to speak said, "You have got to be joking."
"Not at all councilor," Baki said standing. Walking around the table the others were sitting at he made his case saying, "While we have been bickering behind closed doors for the past year Gaara has been fighting alongside his fellow shinobi. He has also been working tirelessly to secure our borders."
He could see a few of his fellow councilors nodding in agreement but wasn't surprised when Joseki one of the more senior members of the council said, "While it is good to finally see our jinchuriki acting stable you cannot seriously expect us to chose him as Kazekage."
"And why is that?" Baki said directing his gaze at the councilor.
"What kind of message would we send if we appointed a Kazekage as young as him?" Joseki said, "We would be the laughing stock of the other Five Great Nations."
"Tell me councilor, who among the village do you think could best Gaara?" Baki asked causing many of the councilors to shift uncomfortably. Grinning at his point hitting home he said, "Exactly. However it isn't just his strength as I don't think you are truly aware of just how popular he has become among our youngest recruits and those just graduating. I think it is time to face facts that time has passed our generation by as it was us that almost led the village to ruin by attacking our allies the Leaf. What better message to send then one that shows that we have turned the village over to a generation that doesn't bear responsibility for our decisions. But, to one of the shinobi that aided in their own crisis with the Uchiha."
He could see Joseki about to argue more but beat him to the punch by adding, "Also let us not forget what happened six months ago when those troublemakers from the Takumi Village kidnapped that academy student Matsuri. The old Gaara would have left her to die. However he fought all four of them and returned the girl home safely."
Again Joseki was about to argue, except this time he was interrupted by Yura who said, "Perhaps the best way to settle this is with a test."
Intrigued, Baki said while retaking his seat, "What do you mean?"
"Well as you all know, we have recently received a communiqué from Konoha regarding the recent desire of Kirigakure to enter the Shinobi Alliance." Directing his attention to Baki he said, "While Gaara is strong, a Kazekage needs to be able to work with his fellow Kages as Joseki has said. What better way to test his ability then to allow him to be our representative for the upcoming negotiations?"
"Now you must be joking?" Joseki said, "We can't have such an important meeting overseen by an amateur."
"I disagree," Yura replied evenly, "Let us not forget this is Konoha's Alliance especially in light of our recent betrayal. Instead of punishing us they have fixed the rules that had allowed our Daimyo to undercut us, by making it so that their prices when accepting jobs from him reflect ours. They are also kind enough to allow us to sit at the table for this negotiation despite the fact that Kiri has not asked us."
Baki understood what Yura was getting at so getting to the point said, "Basically you are saying that there is very little hope for us to achieve any great concessions from them."
"Exactly right," Yura said nodding, "In truth, if we negotiate too hard. They may just ask Konoha to form a separate one with them."
Baki saw that many of the councilors hadn't considered that but now that it had been said, agreed. Figuring that all that could be said on the matter had been, Baki called for a vote. After a straight up and down vote the motion carried so he said, "I will inform Gaara of his selection for the upcoming meeting, but not tell him why."
The councilors began filing out but Baki stopped Yura saying, "Thank you. Because of your idea if Gaara does well we may finally have a Kazekage."
"No thanks are necessary," Yura replied his tone friendly, "I too have noticed how much he has done for the village. The number of missions he has taken since the invasion made it so that despite our horrendous losses we haven't really lost any income. I believe such dedication is an absolute in any man we would nominate to the position."
Baki began chuckling prompting the younger man to ask, "What?"
"Sorry," he said, "It's just you actually sound like you believe what you just said." Before the man could take offense he added, "Please forgive how rude that sounded. It's just I have dealt with many of those councilors for years and as I'm sure you will learn they speak flowery, but in truth worry about only money and power. The council can use more good men like you."
"Thank you," Yura replied humbly, "I should probably get a move on. As I'm sure you want to send the message to Gaara as soon as possible."
Baki watched the young man leave confident that as long as more men like Yura found their way to the council the Sand Village would be in good hands. Especially once Gaara was made Kazekage, as he had seen the change that had come over his onetime pupil in the past year.
Unkai knelt in the center of the cell refusing to use any of the furniture in an act of self punishment for his role in the attack on his niece. It had been almost a week since the Mujina had been expelled. A part of him wouldn't be surprised if she had already signed the order for his death, which was why he was surprised when his cell door opened and his niece stepped in. She looked far healthier and he figured that it must be due to the destruction of the Mujina due to the seal having used a good deal of her vitality to bind the creature to her since they had not used a human sacrifice.
Nodding to the Torture and Interrogation Chunin that had opened the door he was surprised the man had not only left, but had not shut the door as well. Bowing his head until it touched the ground Unkai said, "Please except an old man's apology for what I put you through."
When he raised his head he was surprised to find that his niece kneeling in front of him. Before he could speak she hugged him saying,"I have missed you Uncle Unkai. I have already had our fellow clansmen released. You are free to leave as well."
At a loss for words, he finally said, "Yakumo, I deserve to be here…"
However his niece shook her head no before saying, "Uncle, I know you made the decision that you thought was best. In a sense you were right, I was a danger to the village and clan. Also, I have taken this time to read the notes you had left of your previous encounters with the creature. I know you did not undertake your actions lightly."
"I do not know what to say."
Standing she said holding her hand out to help him up, "Come Uncle, there is much to be done if we are going to resurrect our clan."
Accepting the hand up, he followed his niece from the cell. After returning to the compound for the first time in years Yakumo informed all the clan members to adjourn in the meeting hall were the clan head would often conduct business.
After freshening up Unkai made his way to the hall. He noticed that Yakumo had assembled every member of the clan even those that were not shinobi. After they had all knelt before the slightly raised dais Yakumo stepped out before them. Since she had never held a meeting before most of them had no idea as to what she would say, which is why they were all surprised when she started off by bowing deeply and saying, "I'm sorry." The room mulled uncomfortably before she clarified, "Although I was named the clan head due to my father's death. I have not acted as such, and even with my medical condition should have done something to prevent our decline. With that said, I am proud to say that I will be entering the Shinobi Program as a member of Team Kurenai."
Many of the children and even the adults began clapping for their leader's good fortune. Even though many of them were denied such a role in Konoha due to the clan's old rule of only those who had a talent for genjutsu could enter the academy. Holding up her hand to indicate silence she waited until the noise died down before saying, "Also, as I have been given a second chance at my dream. I believe that everyone deserves one. Therefore, we will be revealing the truth that our clan did not have a Kekkei Genkai and as such all who wish to pursue a shinobi career may do so even if they do not have a talent for genjutsu."
Unkai noticed that many of the younger children, especially those who had or would have been denied a chance at the academy, were especially pleased by her last statement. As the latest round of clapping came to a close Yakumo said, "Finally, since I will not be capable of dedicating all my time to the position I have named my Uncle Unkai as the acting clan head.
Unkai was blindsided by his niece's decree. However, all the Kurama clan members present began clapping for him in light of the fact that he had pretty much been the one holding the clan together. With his niece's support he would now be able attend council meetings thereby retaking some of the power that the civilian councilors in the district the Kurama compound was in had taken for themselves. He bowed deeply to his niece who smiled before further outlining her plans to restore the clan to prominence.
Shino entered his clan's compounds lower level where they stored the specialized food for the hives before they were implanted into the members of the Aburame Clan. His and his father's work had been slow going and thus far had generated quite a few spectacular failures. In such cases the hive would be sterilized so that new beetles could not be born and they would be taken care of until the hive died out. Unfortunately, due to this practice they had been running out of the food and his father had not been able to secure more as a result of his black market sources running out. Furthermore, those that still had the special ingredient that took the place of chakra till the beetles could enter a body were charging exorbitant fees for it making purchasing more discreetly all but impossible.
Therefore, Shino's father and him have been taking it directly from the Aburame Compound where the Clan grew the plant necessary, thereby making dependence on outside sources unnecessary. Sadly for them however was that the Aburame kept careful records of how much they had. Naturally some still went missing as there were often hundreds of hives being attended to at any one time. But if enough went missing it would raise a red flag, which would prompt people to ask questions.
Those questions luckily enough would be directed to his father, but that still didn't mean they could afford to be careless. Shino entered the storage room and was surprised to see an Aburame named Torune standing in it. Torune was something of a prodigy in the clan due to his ability to use the Nano-sized poisonous insects. However it was also due to his skill and standing in the clan that Shino was surprised to find him in the storage room and more to the point doing inventory.
Torune turned towards him saying, "What are you doing here?"
Thinking quickly Shino said, "I was about to ask you the same thing as I did not know it was your responsibility to do inventory."
"It isn't, but recently I've noticed an unusual amount of food has gone missing," Torune replied evenly.
Shino found that rather strange as to why someone of Torune's stature within the clan was paying any attention to the amount of food used by the clan. Torune pointedly said, "Why are you here?"
"To carry out the task that you are doing as my father has noticed as well," Shino lied expertly, "Why did you not bring your concerns to him?"
Torune gave no outward appearance that he was bothered by his question merely saying, "Here if your father wants you to check into it by all means. I already checked that rack there."
Handing Shino the clipboard he left the storage room. Sighing at the added work he now had to do Shino set about completing his new task. As he worked he began to suspect that Torune was one of the Aburame that his father had warned him of who were loyal to Danzou. Shino also wondered if Torune's father was a part of this Root Organization that his father and Ibiki had told him about. If he was that meant his father and him had to be extra careful as Shikuro Aburame was currently an elder of the clan.
After completing the inventory Shino was positive that Torune was keeping tabs on his clan for Danzou as only a minuscule amount of food was missing according to the numbers he was working with. He knew that it should read that as his father was adjusting the numbers for the amount received so that it would look like they would have less than they actually did when the plants were harvested. Therefore Torune must be working with his own set of numbers, and that spelled trouble for his father's hybrid hives.
He headed out mindful that he wasn't followed. Arriving at the candy store in the Uchiha district, he made his way towards the secret room. Stepping in, his father raised an eyebrow at how long his task had taken as well as the fact that he did not bring any food with him. Responding to his father's unasked question he said, "We have a problem, as I believe Torune is working for Danzou."
"What do you base your hypothesis on?" Shibi said evenly.
Shino filled his father in on what had accrued earlier in the storage room. When he was done his father said, "This is most problematic as I have not been able to secure a new supplier for the plants that are the key ingredient to the food. Furthermore we will not be able to take anymore from the compound storeroom as that may tip off Danzou to the existence of a hive he is unaware of." His father thought for a moment before saying, "I suppose I will have to speak to Him about it."
Shino raised an eyebrow at what his father suggested as that was often how his father referred to the man who ran the group working against Danzou. Although Shino still had no idea who ran the show,the fact that his father was going to talk to him showed how worried he was about the lack of supplies and how close their project was to failure. Before leaving his father said, "You've done well Shino," and then took off in search of him.
Asuma was tired as he reached his home and just wanted to get some sleep. He'd head to the flowershop early the next day to buy some flowers for Kurenai to help soothe her ruffled feathers. In truth, he had no idea what he was going to say to her, as he really didn't understand why she wanted to announce their relationship to the world all of the sudden. Everything was going fine until Kakashi and Shizune had begun dating.
The reason he didn't want to announce his relationship to the beautiful woman was because of who his father was. He just didn't want to deal with the hassle of everyone poking their noses in his business. That was one of the reason he had joined the Twelve Ninja Guardians and that was to get from out of his father's shadow. And even though he knew it was unfair to Kurenai he didn't think she would understand just how much attention being his girlfriend would garner.
Sitting down on his couch he lit a cigarette, thinking about what he would say to Kurenai. However a knock at his door pulled him to the present and getting up cursed when he saw through the peephole that his visitor was Kurenai. Opening the door he said, "Kurenai, I just got back."
"I know and I wanted to have that talk with you," she said just shy of demanding.
"Do you mind if we have it tomorrow as I'm beat," Asuma said but the narrowing of her eyes told him that she would indeed mind waiting further. Opening he beckoned her in and closed it behind her. "Do you want anything to drink?" he asked slightly embarrassed at the state of his apartment.
"No thank you," Kurenai said taking a seat. Crossing her legs as she stared him down before asking, "So how was the mission that you requested?"
Asuma grimaced figuring he should have guessed that one way or another word would reach Kurenai about how he had received the mission Team Ten had spent the past month on. Knowing that he was busted he decided to come clean saying, "Yeah sorry about that. It's just I wasn't sure on what to say so I sort of panicked."
"Well…"
"Well what?" Asuma replied confused.
"You must have thought about why you don't want to announce our relationship to anyone in all the time you've spent away from the village," Kurenai said flatly.
"I did and I just don't want who I'm seeing to become a big deal. Why do you need to let everyone know anyway?"
"Because I'm a grown woman telling people that see us together I'm running errands for Anko," Kurenai said heatedly, "and the best you can come up with is you want to keep it private because you're afraid that it will become a big deal."
"Trust me it will," Asuma said, "Everyone will be giving us their two cents on our relationship due to who my father is."
"And…"
"I don't want to have to deal with that kind of hassle," Asuma said, but instantly knew that was exactly the wrong thing to say.
Kurenai stood saying, "Then why bother sneaking around at all."
She began heading towards the door, but Asuma caught her arm saying, "Kurenai, I'm sorry. You just don't understand."
"I understand perfectly fine," Kurenai said unemotionally having already had a good idea that the discussion would turn out like it was. "I understand that what you want is to not have to deal with the pressures of being your father's son. That's fine. But you need to understand something as well and that is I was willing too. What I don't want to have to do is one day hear that you died and have people wonder why I'm taking it so hard. We live dangerous lives and I want to spend my days with the man I love hand in hand where people can see." Pulling her arm free Kurenai said, "Therefore, this is me saying good-bye Asuma. I hope you can one day find the woman that doesn't mind being with you in the shadows."
She made her way to the front door sending a grim smile back towards him before opening it and stepping out of the apartment. When the door closed it hit Asuma pretty hard that he had probably made a huge mistake it letting Kurenai leave. However, he pushed it down confident that given a few days Kurenai would calm down and that he would be able to mend their relationship as he had done a few times in the past.
Sarutobi was sitting in an upper level of the Akimichi restaurant operated by Chouko Akimichi who was the wife of Chouza Akimichi and was mother to Chouji. Sarutobi took a sip of the tea the woman had made for him. He was here on business as he tried to find a solution to Shibi's problem. As he waited for the woman to return having left to deal with some minor emergency in the kitchen.
He had to smile at his current role in Konoha. He had little doubt that Danzou merely thought of him now as some minor annoyance that stood between him and directly learning what Tsunade was up to, not as the secret mastermind of the underground organization that was moving against Root. It was just how Danzou's mind worked; all that he saw was threats to his desire to be Hokage. Since Sarutobi had moved on and accepted a new position in the government he had fallen from the top space on Danzou's threat list. It was a foolish mistake on Danzou's part and was what he often felt was one of the most preeminent things lacking in Danzou's plans. That being that to him in order to be a threat required power either in position or jutsu. However, he underestimated people that would simply raise up to protect their homes. People like the woman he was waiting on.
Chouko while not a shinobi was head of the largest black market operation in all of Fire Country. All shinobi villages had them as they were a necessity. After all, a village like Suna might craft a deadly poison from a rare flower found in its borders and the antidote would come from an equally rare flower. Thus why the existence of the Black Market was necessary, which was to ensure that Konoha could get its hands on such rare items. The matriarch of the Akimichi was in the perfect position to run such a market as she could easily travel and did so often. Claiming to be looking for new and interesting dishes and ingredients.
The large woman reentered the room saying, "Please forgive the interruption elder Sarutobi. Where were we?"
"I believe we were discussing how young Chouji is doing," Sarutobi said having yet to brooch the subject he wished to.
"Yes, he's doing well glad to be doing missions again and finally back at a healthy weight," Chouko said. "I really wish the doctors of this village would begin taking into account the Akimichi's unique physiology when they come up with meals for us while we are in the hospital."
"Indeed," Sarutobi chuckled before adding, "Although I think the other patients would complain due to their eating such bland meals compared what you would be providing for your family."
The woman laughed good naturedly at his small jest before asking, "Does your tea meet with your expectations?"
Sarutobi put the cup down before saying, "It is quite good but I'm afraid it needs something."
The woman inclined her head recognizing that Sarutobi was talking about more than tea. "Please tell me. How is it lacking?"
"I'm afraid that compared to the tea I recently had at Shibi Aburame's it is need of some of the rare herbs he often goes on about," Sarutobi said which basically translated that 'Shibi Aburame was in need of the rare plants that made up the food that the hives consumed before being implanted into the Aburame.'
Although Chouko was a part of Sarutobi's underground movement. She had no idea what Shibi needed them for, but once when a rare fungus had decimated the Aburame's supply of the plant. She had needed to find a source for them until they could sustain themselves. Getting up she walked to a shelf pulling a book of ingredients which in reality was a book of where and how she made contact with her various sources. After searching through it she said sadly, "I'm afraid Shibi will have to conserve what few herbs he has left as procuring more will be almost impossible."
"Why's that," Sarutobi asked concerned since he didn't want Shibi's project to fail. "I know they come from Sea Country but it shouldn't be that hard to get more."
"Under normal circumstances you would be right," Chouko said, "But recently Sea Country's ships have been coming under attack and from what I've heard by some sort of sea creature. Normally they would simply send a request to Kiri, but the village has been swamped by missions and lacks the shinobi to take care of them all."
"What if the problem is taken care of?" Sarutobi asked.
"Well then the next time you stopped by for tea, I'm sure you would find it more to your liking," the woman said standing as he did.
Thanking the woman for her hospitality Sarutobi made his way out of the restaurant. He found himself in a rather difficult bind especially due to the Mizukage's upcoming visit to negotiate joining the alliance. The timing couldn't be worse as that meant sending a team could upset the leader of Kiri since it was practically in her backyard. Accepting the job even if it had been offered to Konoha would hurt the talks before they even started since in effect it would be taking money from Kiri's coffers. What he needed was a way to send a team that even though they may solve the problem it would appear to be merely a byproduct of the team's being there. He would have to talk to Tsunade and hope she could think of a reason to send a team to Sea Country that wouldn't upset the Mizukage or disturb the upcoming negotiations.
Gaara entered Baki's small apartment silently as he was wont to do, several days after recieving the message to return. He found his sensei praying in front of a cabinet. Before announcing himself he noticed that inside the cabinet was a small shrine and resting on it was a Katana that had the Leaf Symbol on it. Although curious he felt he was intruding so said, "Baki…"
Baki was surprised to have been snuck up on and quickly closed the door to the cabinet. "Gaara, good," he said giving no inclination his students stealthy arrival bothered him. "I'm sure you are curious as to why you were summoned, so let's get right to the matter. Shall we?"
Gaara inclined his head still being a boy of few words so Baki said, "Recently Kiri has decided to negotiate with Konoha about joining the Shinobi Alliance. Normally the Kage would handle the talks but since we have been without one we need to select somebody to go. During the course of our discussion your name came up."
"Who will I be guarding?" Gaara asked not quite getting where Baki was going.
Chuckling the Sand Jounin said, "You misunderstood. Your name came up to lead the talks."
Gaara's eyes widened in surprise and for a second a look of worry crossed his face before his normal stoicism took over. "Why would the council want me?"
"Well boy, you've made quite the name for yourself recently among our shinobi and therefore we felt it would be best if you were seen representing Sand's desires for the upcoming talks. Don't worry as a councilor named Joseki will accompany as will I."
Gaara nodded before asking, "When do we leave?"
"In two more weeks' time," Baki informed him. "Don't worry. By then we will have you prepared for what to expect."
Gaara merely inclined his head slightly before heading towards the window and shunshined away. Once alone Baki thought with a smile, "And after these talks I believe we'll finally have a Kazekage worth following again."
Tayuya and Kin were heading to the Hokage's office having received a summons to report to the leader of the village. Kin had been on cloud nine since returning to their apartment from morning training. Although the pair had been afraid at first as the lock had been picked. They had been afraid that Anko was staging another of her surprise assaults. However after bursting into the room they scared a small flightless bird that had been sitting on the couch waiting for them before scurrying off.
The creature had been wearing a red and white wool hat with a little ball at the top of it. When it had taken off running it had started by giving a little hop. Tayuya had chased it around the apartment failing epically to catch the bird that was much faster than it appeared. Kin had merely gone to the couch and saw a letter on it with her name written in Haku's handwriting.
Quickly opening the letter she read that the penguin was called Chilly and that he couldn't speak but would act as a messenger for the two of them. Kin called to Tayuya to stop chasing the summons and had to stop herself from laughing as the penguin had somehow managed to hit her in the face with a bag of flour.
"You could give me a fucking hand," her roommate had said reentering the living room from the kitchen.
Smiling Kin held up the letter saying, "If I helped you kill him I might not get another letter."
Tayuya raised an eyebrow as Kin read her letter and growled menacingly when a few moments later the penguin hopped onto the couch next to Kin. Kin smiled at the bird before picking it up and giving it a kiss which caused it to turn red. She then retreated to her room to compose a reply letter. When she came out of her room almost an hour later she handed her letter to the penguin who hopped in the air a little before disappearing.
Shortly after, an Anbu had knocked at the door telling them to head to the Hokage's office. As they walked to the Hokage Mansion Tayuya said, "We need some better fucking locks."
Kin smiled but asked, "What do you mean?"
"I mean I'm tired of our apartment getting broken into," Tayuya said. "First there was when Anko broke into the apartment to fill our packs when she had us go with Gai-sensei and Lee to Demon Country. Now even birds are getting inside."
Kin merely shrugged her shoulders saying, "I suppose that's a hazard of living in a shinobi village."
Tayuya muttered under her breath about birds and people that didn't understand boundaries before letting it go. Arriving at the Hokage's office they were waved in by the secretary on duty. Upon entering the office they saw a beaten up Sasame lying on a couch to the side as Anko hadn't dismissed her when she let Tayuya and Kin leave.
Tsunade upon noticing them said, "Good, now we can begin. Recently ships have been coming under attack in Sea Country. Your mission is to investigate whether or not Orochimaru is involved."
"Are you sure that's wise Lady Hokage?" Anko asked feeling uneasy about returning to Sea Country. "What with the talks with Kiri that are scheduled to start tomorrow, should we really be taking jobs from a country that usually sends its business to them?"
"Normally I would agree with you Anko," Tsunade said watching the woman making sure that was the only reason she didn't want to return to Sea Country. "However, I have reason to believe that Orochimaru is behind these attacks so am taking the initiative. I will explain my position to the Mizukage upon her arrival tomorrow. Is there another more pressing reason why you don't want to go?"
"No, Lady Hokage," Anko said truthfully. "What makes you think Orochimaru is behind it?"
"When I first returned to the village I was sent on a mission to cure a plague. It was a rouse so that they could force me to heal one of his henchmen, a boy by the name of Kimimaro. The disease that he had was located in Sea Country. I can't be positive of course, but the disease is rare enough that I doubt he caught it somewhere else."
Anko nodded her head in understanding before saying, "What are our orders?"
"Ascertain whether Orochimaru is operating in the area and if so shut it down," Tsunade said. Cautioning Anko she added, "However, if Orochimaru is in the area I want you to summon help first before proceeding. Understand?"
"Roger," Anko said cheerfully moving to grab Sasame by the ankle and drag her out of the room.
Tayuya followed her lead but Kin remained behind for a moment. When the room had cleared Tsunade asked, "Is there something you need?"
"Milady, would it be okay if after the mission I head to Water Country?"
"Why," Tsunade asked leaning forward.
"Haku sent me a letter and told me where he is training at. If I'm going to…"
"Yes go right ahead," Tsunade said not willing to stand in the way of young love. "I'll also appreciate it if you can ask him for an estimate of when we can expect him to return. I'll expect you back a month after the mission is over. Clear?"
Although she said the last part sternly Tsunade was unable to keep the smile from her face when Kin began bowing repeatedly as she made her way to the door her elation and excitement clear to see. "Crystal Milady," Kin said reaching the door of the office before opening it and shouting a, "Thank you," into the office as she left.
With a smile on her face Tsunade reached for the letter she had received from Jiraiya wondering what he had thought of the picture she had sent.
An hour later Team Anko was on their way to the Land of Waves to charter a boat to Sea Country. They could run to the Land of Tea and hop on a boat to Sea, but Anko was sure that would be a route that Orochimaru would watch. As most shinobi did not enjoy long boat rides not liking their fates to be in anyone's hands but their own, Also, a shipping company located in the country offered rather cheap rates for moving Konoha shinobi and cargo.
As they moved through the trees with Sasame still out of it and riding on Tayuya's back due to the harsh training Anko was putting her through, Anko couldn't help but feel uneasy about returning to Sea Country. Something her team easily picked up on. Finally Tayuya blurted out, "Are you going to fucking tell us what has your panties in a twist?"
Looking back at the red-head Anko said, "Sea Country was where they found me after Orochimaru abandoned me."
Kin and Tayuya shared a look before Kin said, "But that doesn't explain why you seem so hesitant to return."
"I know," Anko said, "it's just… I can't remember what happened there. All I get are glimpses occasionally. But I get the feeling that whatever is attacking these boats. I know what it is."
"What do you mean?" Tayuya asked shifting Sasame who mumbled sleepily about how uncomfortable her bed was.
"I get flashes of some sort of creature floating in a tank, and an island. Everything else is just jumbled together and doesn't make a lot of sense."
"Is that really it?" Kin asked concerned.
Anko really wished her girls weren't so observant sometimes but figured she should be honest and said, "I guess sometimes I worry about what really happened there. About whether I left him or if he let me go."
"Why does it fucking matter?"
"Because whatever he was doing there was probably quite inhuman," Anko said sounding pained, "And if he left me, what does that say about me?"
Unfortunately neither girl had an answer. Although it was easy to hate Orochimaru for how he abandoned each of them. They all lived with the fear of what would they have become if he hadn't. Would they have become monsters just like him? Anko couldn't answer that for herself and knew both her girls couldn't either. However Anko hoped maybe on one of the islands that made up Sea Country she would find the answer to the question that had haunted her for years.
Tsunade was standing in front of the Hokage mansion decked out in her full regalia. She really hated the robes, which was why she rarely ever wore them. Although she was glad for the hat at least for today as she still had not been able to get the smile she had been wearing after reading Jiraiya's letter off of her face. Shaking her head she had to amend herself as letter wasn't really the right word as all that had been written on the paper over and over again was "Please send me another picture."
Knowing that Jiraiya still desired her at least physically was something of an ego boost to the woman. She was tempted to do so but feared he would do something foolish with it, and the last thing she needed was for a pinup picture of her to start floating around. The only reason she had sent that one was she was positive that it would be destroyed.
Focusing on more important matters Tsunade saw that all of Konoha had turned out to see the Mizukage's arrival. She couldn't blame them since it was the first time in Konoha's long history that a Kage other than the Kazekage had entered the village. It was also a rather big deal in part due to Konoha's and Kiri's long bloody history. After all it was Kiri that had started the Second Great Shinobi War, and been responsible for the destruction of the Land of Whirlpools.
However that was in the past and she was sure that the many villagers that lined the street hoped the Mizukage's arrival heralded a brighter future. Although Tsunade shared that hope she was positive that if would only happen after another round of bloody conflict especially with an organization like Akatsuki hiding in the shadows.
"Do you feel the history about to unfold my child?" Sarutobi asked who was standing beside her.
Turning her head to look at her old Sensei she could see out of the corner of her eye the three other elders lined up behind him. Her eyes landed on Danzou for a moment making her again glad for the mask as the scowl replaced the smile she had previously worn. Answering the question she said, "Not at the moment Sarutobi-sensei as we haven't signed an agreement yet, but hopefully soon."
Chuckling, the Head Elder said, "Trust me my dear if you had been in my position back during the Second Shinobi War, the Mizukage stepping foot in the village in anything other than chains would be quite impossible to imagine. The fact that she is here to talk peace is a direct result of your actions as Hokage take pride in that."
Tsunade inclined her head at Sarutobi's compliment but remained silent as confetti began streaming from the windows at the end of the street marking the Mizukage's progress through the village. Able to see her party clearly Tsunade saw that Mei was in the lead waving to the villagers as she passed also wearing the robes of her office. Just behind her and to her right was Zabuza who was wearing his Jounin-uniform however his sword was curiously absent but Tsunade figured that Mei didn't want to make a bad impression by having one of her bodyguards wearing such a large weapon. Tsunade imagined that Zabuza had probably not been too happy with such a decision. The other man she didn't recognize. He wore the standard outfit of the Kiri Hunter-Division and an eye-patch over his right eye. Hanging from his ears were earrings that looked like paper sutras.
Tsunade took a moment to look at the people standing around her before the Mizukage's party reached them. Gaara was standing off to the left the two advisors he had brought with him standing to either side of him. She had been surprised to learn that Sand had sent the boy as their envoy. When she had asked Sarutobi what he thought the man had simply said, "It appears that the times are indeed changing."
Behind the Sand stood the envoys of Waterfall and Grass, looking at the shaky leader of Waterfall, Tsunade made a mental note to discuss the country's treatment of Fū. Judging by the two severe looking councilors behind the man she doubted the young man was actually in charge.
The Mizukage reaching the gate of the Hokage Mansion called for her attention. Walking the final few feet she said, "Mizukage welcome to Konoha."
"I thank you for agreeing to these talks Fifth Hokage," Mei said.
"Konoha is always prepared to listen to those who wish to talk of peace," Tsunade said politely. "You must be tired after your journey. Would you like to be shown your accommodations?"
Normally asking such was considered a politeness as it was generally agreed upon that negotiations would start the day after all parties arrived. However Mei surprised everyone by saying, "Actually, I would prefer it if we could begin right away."
Tsunade smiled beneath the cloth that covered her face understanding now why the Mizukage's group had arrived a day after the other envoy's. It had been to throw them off guard since they thought they would have another day to prepare. As the last to arrive it was within her right to decline the rest, but by the uncomfortable shifting of the parties from Suna, Taki, and Kusa they had clearly expected the talks to start the next day. Although catching Gaara out of her eye she noted he didn't seem bothered by it at all.
Tsunade wondered for a moment why the Mizukage was trying to make the others uncomfortable. She knew Mei wasn't trying to play games with her as Konoha was the most powerful Shinobi Village of those present. Therefore, Tsunade doubted the Mizukage wanted to rile her up. But then she realized that although Konoha had the greatest bargaining strength undoubtedly the other countries were hoping to in some way force Kiri to agree to concessions in favor of them. By keeping them off balance, Mei was sending the message that Kiri wasn't going to play their games.
Since all Tsunade truly wanted was Kiri to join them in the fight against Akatsuki she saw no reason not to play along saying, "If you feel you are up to it then by all means let us get these talks underway."
Team Anko came to rest in front the bridge that led to the Land of Waves. The large sign above it proclaimed it the Three Demon Bridge, although beneath it was a smaller hand painted sign calling it the Great Naruto Bridge. "Why is there a second sign underneath the big one?" Sasame asked staring up at it.
Kin smiled saying, "When Haku and his team fought her before joining Konoha. His teammate Naruto was under an assumed name. Tazuna originally wanted to name the bridge after him but couldn't. So he called it the Three Demon's Bridge, but when he wanted to change the name later the town liked it too much. He called for a vote and lost. Apparently Tazuna isn't the type to take losing lying down."
"Enough lollygagging around you two," Anko called back towards already starting across the bridge. "Don't forget Kinnie, the sooner we end this mission the sooner you can be in your beau's arms again."
Tayuya said from a little ahead of Anko, "Ah, you just want to fucking be in your own beau's arms."
"Don't be jealous, Tayuya," Anko said blushing a little, "I'm sure even someone like you can find a man."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Tayuya said with a glare.
"Nothing," Anko said whistling as she walked by her student with her hands clamped behind her back.
"You meant something by it," Tayuya said following behind her teacher.
"No I didn't," Anko replied simply enjoying pushing her student's buttons from time to time.
Tayuya settled for sending a glare at the back of her sensei's head till they reached the Shipping Company's office. The company was called The Kaiza Shipping Company. Underneath the sign was a motto that said "Use the damn bridge. But if you have to ship it by boat we'll protect your cargo with our own two arms if we must."
Stepping inside they saw that the office area looked rather tidy. The reason why became apparent when an attractive woman with black hair and wearing a pink shirt stepped up to the counter Team Anko was standing in front of. Looking every inch the homemaker the clean office suggested she was she said, "Hello my name is Tsunami. How may I be of assistance?"
"We need passage to Sea Country," Anko said but frowned when she saw a look of concern appear on the woman's face. "Is that a problem?"
"Normally yes," But recognizing them as Konoha shinobi, Tsunami said, "However for shinobi of Konoha I'm sure we can find a captain willing to chance running into the sea monster that has been attacking boats that leave Sea Country."
"Thank you," Anko said inclining her head to the woman, "We'll see that the crew is adequately compensated."
Tsunami left for the back of the building to find a crew that would be willing to risk a confrontation with the creature reported to be destroying ships. As she expected the many of the sailors that worked for her were more than willing to go to help Konoha Shinobi. Returning to the front she informed Team Anko that the ship would be ready to go within in the hour. She was about to leave for her office when Kin said, "That's an unusual motto for a shipping company."
Smiling the woman said, "Indeed, it was my father's idea. After Gato's death and subsequent destruction of his headquarters the Land of Wave's Daimyo bequeathed the company to my father. He has no desire to run it as he enjoys carpentry too much. The first part of the motto is all my father, of course, but the second part is my dead husband's whose name this company bears."
Kin nodded saying, "He must have been a real stand up kind of man."
"He was," Tsunami said, "Now please make yourselves comfortable and we'll have you on your way in no time."
While they waited, Anko let her thoughts turn to Iruka and was glad that she had decided to find somebody. In the month the two had been dating Anko had never been happier. Iruka she was sure was pretty close to the perfect man at least as far as she was concerned. Thinking of her own romantic ups made her think of Kurenai's own romantic concerns.
She remembered the night the red-eyed jounin had come home distraught after Asuma came back. She had almost taken off that night to do something drastic to the man, but Kurenai had stopped her. Although Kurenai had moped around her apartment the next day. By the day after she seemed better than new. When Anko had asked why Kurenai had given a cryptic smile but not told her why she was in higher spirits. It had only been the day before that Anko got a glimpse of why Kurenai not only seemed to smile more but had turned Asuma down flat when he showed up at their apartment with a bouquet of flowers. That reason had to be Maito Gai as she had seen him leaving with her temporary roommate when she had been heading back to pack for the mission.
What Anko didn't understand was why now Kurenai wanted to be so secretive about her relationship. After all Anko didn't think Asuma was the insanely jealous type. But Anko figured that Kurenai didn't want it to appear to Asuma that the relationship she had started with Gai had been going on while she and he had been dating. Anko was glad for her friend as she was quickly learning a good man could make life a lot better.
"Absolutely not," one of the councilors from Grass said rejecting a lowball offer on tariffs that Kiri would agree to pay them for selling in their markets.
Tsunade stifled a yawn having been trapped in the room with the other leaders for well over five hours with only a half-hour lunch of peace and quiet. In truth this was what she hated about her job the most. Paperwork was a pain, but nothing compared to career politicians. Everything was a fight with them ever concession a hard fought battle and what was worse was when they caved easily it made her wonder why. Grass was proving that having fought the Mizukage on almost every issue.
Looking at the seats that had been occupied by Waterfall she had to amend that position as at least they had stayed. The Taki delegation had stormed out when it became apparent that Kiri considered them bit players in the negotiations. Tsunade couldn't fault Kiri for their position though, as some of the demands had been rather outrageous.
Tsunade's opinion of Mei however kept growing as it became apparent that the woman was taking the talks the same way Tsunade had. Tsunade had come up with several things she wanted from Kiri most preeminent being the sharing of information on groups deemed dangerous to the collective good i.e. Akatsuki. As to the other things such as tariffs she had made her position known and had been surprised when Mei quickly agreed. Tsunade supposed that it was because what she had asked for had been just above market value as opposed to the three times that Grass demanded. She knew why Grass's offer was so high and that was to try and pressure Kiri into accepting bad terms as they probably sensed that the Mist Village was desperate for the alliance to work. However their strategy faltered slightly when Tsunade unveiled her demands and fell apart completely when Suna quickly concurred with Konoha.
Finally the Grass councilor accepted an offer of just under market value. Tsunade felt it served him right as she wanted the alliance to be for making each of the participating villages stronger not for lining the pockets of those who ran them. Hoping that they were at least done for the day Tsunade said, "Well I believe that should be enough for the day."
"Actually Lady Hokage, I was hoping to discuss two more points of business if you don't mind," the Mizukage said. Looking at the group of Grass councilors she politely, but with a hint of disdain, continued, "I didn't mean to take so much time haggling over prices and feel these two things are quite important to my home and one of the reasons I'm hoping to make this alliance work."
"By all means then Mizukage," Tsunade said folding her hands in front of her.
Smiling politely Mei said, "The first is that due to my husband's time as a Leaf Jounin he left with a thorough appreciation of your academy structure. As you may know we now believe that Yagura was under the previous Mizukage's control." Mei stopped talking looking at Grass blankly making it apparent that she didn't trust them enough to unveil that Kiri and Konoha also believed the Third Mizukage was also behind Akatsuki. Something that Tsunade could appreciate so wasn't surprised that Mei made no mention of them as she continued saying, "However, for whatever reason he also seemed fit to sabotage our own Academy Program. Therefore, I would like to ask that Konoha send us an instructor to help get our program back on the right track so to speak."
"If I refuse," Tsunade said, causing a look of concern to appear on Mei's face showing just how much she wanted it.
"That is your right," Mei said flatly, "I will not throw a tantrum and derail all the work we have put forth so far. However I ask that you at least consider it."
Sarutobi who had been quiet most of the day said, "Perhaps if you tell us why, it will help the Hokage decide. Although our systems aren't exactly confidential it does beg to question why you want one of our instructors."
"I'm hoping to start the whole system from scratch," Mei said after giving the matter some thought, "But what I fear is that old hatreds and fears will derail my plans for the school. That is why I hope to have an outsider in charge of the Academy at least for the first group of students."
"Someone without those old prejudices," Sarutobi supplied.
"Exactly," Mei said excitedly showing her passion for her vision of the academy.
"I can't speak for the Hokage," the elder said, "But I am for the idea and have an idea of who would be perfect for this job should she agree."
Tsunade smiled at her old teacher before saying, "Konoha agrees as stronger generations of shinobi will only benefit the alliance in the future. Now what is the second item you wish to discuss?"
The gratitude on Mei's face was easy to see before it faded as she said, "I know it is rather forward of us to request since we would only just be joining the Shinobi Alliance. But would you please consider allowing Kiri to hold the Chunin exams in three months."
Tsunade frowned as she said, "I'm afraid that is not for me to decide as Suna is to be the site to host the next Chunin Exams."
Mei nodded and judging by the two councilors behind the emotionless boy knew that the answer was no. Which was why she was surprised when Gaara said, "Suna does not have a problem with Kiri being the site of the next Chunin Exams."
However before Mei could thank him the older councilor whose name she recalled was Joseki said, "You have overstepped your bounds boy. Of course, we have a problem with losing the upcoming Chunin Exams."
Gaara merely turned to the man who was sitting behind him and said, "The point of this Alliance is to make each other stronger. The Mizukage asked first for an instructor to strengthen her future generations. I believe she asks to be the host of the Exams for similar reasons, most likely to generate much needed income as it is likely that the previous Mizukage has also been rather remiss with the village's funds."
"You are correct," Mei confessed, "That is why we hope to be the site of the upcoming Exams to help stimulate our economy."
Gaara nodded his head but said, "Suna agrees to allow you to host the exams. However, I would like it if you will allow vendors from Suna to also set up shop in the village for the event."
"That could be arranged," Mei said, "We can discuss the details tomorrow as I'm sure everyone is tired."
Everyone agreed to pick up the talks the next day. Tsunade hoped to reach the Taki delegations before they left the village, but needed to talk to Mei first so said, "Lady Mizukage would you mind waiting a moment?"
Mei nodded to her husband who made for the exit Ao following behind him. When the two ladies were alone Tsunade said, "The reason I wish to speak to you is because recently I sent a team of shinobi to Sea Country in response to the sea creature that has been sinking ships."
"I understand," Mei said surprising the Sanin. Which showed as she laughed lightly before saying, "Does it surprise you I'm not upset? While I'll miss the money that the job would have generated, I'm facing a severe manpower shortage. I can't handle all the jobs we have now."
Leaning against a desk Tsunade said, "Perhaps we can come to a mutually beneficial arrangement then."
"I would appreciate any suggestions," Mei said earnestly, "as I think many of my shinobi are going to drop dead from exhaustion."
"Well what if we work out a system, where we loan you shinobi for a cut of the money on whatever jobs they do?"
"How much of a cut?" Mei asked a little guardedly.
"Twenty percent," Tsunade replied.
Mei smiled before saying, "I believe that is acceptable. But may I ask? Why are you being so accommodating to us? It isn't like Kiri and Konoha have a history of cooperation."
"What has transpired between us is the past. I'm hoping for a better future," Tsunade said before grimly adding, "But we may not have a future if Akatsuki isn't stopped of that I'm sure."
Making her way to the door Mei said, "Well till tomorrow," and then left Tsunade who moved to the window. Watching the setting sun Tsunade smiled before deciding to indulge herself in a little sake and who knew maybe work up the courage to send Jiraiya another photo.
Yugito Nii was proud of what she was, a jinchuriki of Kumo. She owed it all to Killer Bee, who although a fool, had found the way to tame the beast within them. She was currently on a mission to destroy a group of bandits called the Forest Ghosts. Recently an anonymous source who called himself Mr. J had been supplying the village with intel on various bandit groups. Although the Raikage had blown the information off at first, he had come around eventually. Yugito was being sent because the Forest Ghosts were by far the largest and most brazen of the bandits Mr. J had served up thus far.
Stopping on a branch she saw a rundown castle that had once belonged to a prominent member of the Land of Lightning Daimyo's family. However that had been a long time ago and eventually the fortress had been abandoned. Eventually the forest had reclaimed the structure before being claimed by the bandits. She was about to move in when a voice said, "Well, well the Raikage finally sent you out."
Yugito instantly spun to face the voice pulling a kunai which she held in front of her. "What do you want?" she demanded.
"Is that any way to talk to the man who has been providing your Raikage with all that great information on the criminal organizations that have been operating around his village?"
"You're Mr. J?"
"Actually, you can simply call me Jiraiya."
Tensing Yugito said, "Jiraiya of the Sannin. So this was all a trick to lure me out in retaliation for the attempt on the Hyuuga."
"Hardly, although it was all to lure you out I admit," Jiraiya said turning towards the castle.
Yugito turned to look where Jiraiya was staring and was surprised to see herself jump into the castle through a window. A moment later the sound of battle could be heard coming from within it. Returning her gaze to Jiraiya she asked, "What the hell are you playing at?"
"I needed to get you out where I could talk to you alone," Jiraiya said, "The boy that is currently pretending to be you is the jinchuriki of the Kyuubi. We are on a mission to locate and inform the other jinchuriki of a threat that seems to be targeting them. It's a group of S-class criminals that call themselves the Akatsuki. I don't know what their goal is, only that for right now it seems to involve locating all the jinchuriki. I would like it if you would pass that information along to your Raikage and Killer Bee, who is currently at the Valley of Clouds and Lightning."
Yugito couldn't keep the surprise that Jiraiya knew where Bee was from her face saying, "How can you possible know that?"
"Because I am a sage," Jiraiya couldn't resist replying.
Scowling the woman said, "Why should I believe any of this?"
"Trust me, nine missing-nin don't get together to perform tricks at kids birthday parties. But if you need a selfish reason then that boy down there is my godson and whatever Akatsuki is planning involves him." To punctuate his sentence a loud crash could be heard.
Turning towards the castle Yugito said, "Should we help him?"
"Nah, he'll be fine," Jiraiya said nonchalantly causing the woman to sweat drop at his casual dismissal of his godson's safety. But he was proven correct when the last bandit tried to escape through the gate only for Naruto to kick him into the frame of it.
Yugito said, "Not bad, I suppose," but a vein appeared on her forehead when Naruto still henged as Yugito began jumping up and down all girly giving a peace sign every third hop.
"I don't behave like that," she shouted down from the tree at the henged boy.
"That's not what Jiraiya said," Naruto replied causing the woman to spin around to confront the man but instead only found a silly looking doll with a note pinned to it that said, "Consider my warning. Also, I will never use the Mr. J alias again. So if somebody is claiming otherwise consider it a trap."
Turning back to where her doppelganger had been standing, she saw that he was gone as well. Going to round up the bandits for the long journey to Kumo she wondered what this group Akatsuki would want the jinchuriki for. But, she was confident that if they ever came for her, that she would send them packing.
"So where to now Pervy Sage?" Naruto asked having released the henge.
"Well due to the picture the Mizukage provided to us, one of my contacts has spotted the Six-tails in the Land of Birds. So that will be our next stop."
"What kind of training will I be doing and it better not be any more of that standing still stuff," Naruto said as they dropped down to a road that led out of the country.
"Well it was fun while it lasted," Jiraiya thought since Naruto had gotten fed up with his meditative training since he hadn't been seeing any results. However Jiraiya didn't truly mind as Naruto was rather close and any more would be in danger of possibly channeling Natural Energy accidentally. He would hate to have to return to Konoha and explain how the toad statue he was carrying had used to be Naruto.
The last jinchuriki besides Gaara was obviously going to be the most difficult as he could be hiding anywhere in the world. Since he had left the village after his master had died trying to pull the tailed beast out of him and if what he had heard was true was under the impression his master had tried to kill him.
Therefore Jiraiya didn't harbor any doubts that Utakata would be a difficult man to run down. He highly doubted that he would be willing to be accommodating enough to stay in cities and towns so probably spent most of his time living in the forests. In any case he decided if the journey took too long that he would take Naruto to Mount Myoboku. If Naruto refused to master the Kyuubi then the boy would just have to become a sage.
Answering Naruto's question Jiraiya said, "No, you got those exercises down enough that it might not be safe for you to do it any further. We'll be working on ninjutsu and taijutsu at least until after we find Utakata or we are forced to give up."
"Alright," Naruto said his usual excited self when it came to new jutsu, "I want to learn something really powerful and destructive."
"What, no way kid," Jiraiya said enjoying riling his student up, "You're way to reckless."
"Come on Pervy Sage… (poof)…Please."
Hearing the throaty whisper of Naruto's new sexy jutsu Jiraiya began poking his fingers together saying, "Well maybe if you promise to train like that."
Dropping the henge, Naruto shouted, "You are such a perv."
Spinning around Jiraiya said "Hey, I didn't even get to see her this time bring her back."
"No"
"Then no jutsu for you," Jiraiya said.
"Ahhhhh, why do you have to be such a perv," Naruto said chasing after Jiraiya who was walking away.