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Chapter 32:
A Miko Makes Life Hard
"Uwaa!" Ichi exclaimed as he woke and stretched. "It is a good day! We worked and drank until late last night, and nobody is rushing to wake us!"
Ni lethargically watched the light filter through the tree branches they slept under. "It is so hard to use Iwafutae clan jutsu. How should we thank the kindness to sleep in?"
The twin brothers stared at each other for several long moments as the desire sank in, and they felt astonished that they had not properly repaid such kind thoughts. Their astonished expressions morphed into expressions of careful thought. They were not about to insult their hosts.
It was too much to reshape the stone face monuments. The fine and delicate work would take months of careful study and delicate craft. They also had learned of the maze of tunnels and safe houses that needed to be carefully reconstructed and reinforced. The task was a monumental as the memorial, and a rush job would do no favors to their reputation.
They dismissed reconstructing even one section of the great wall that protected Konoha. The sheer effort would leave them drained for at least a day, and they were staunchly against any disservice to any client that hired them. If they were going to do a job, they were going to do it right. After all, the first line of defense needed to be properly reinforced and constructed with the defending ninja in mind.
In a stroke of what they thought called brilliance, they finally came to a decision. They stood and clasped each other's shoulders at the thought and smiled widely. "We shall reconstruct one of the famous Konoha gates today! There is one each to the north, south, east, and west. In honor of Iwa and recognition of our mission honoring Earth-sama, we shall start at the north!"
They rushed off before their ANBU guard had the chance to say anything. Instead, they looked at each other feeling a cold sweat. They were assigned to watch and only interfere if or when necessary. Somewhat worriedly, one spoke up. "Should we stop them? There aren't any plans for construction in that area today…"
The other replied with a shrug. "It won't hurt. At least they're repairing something. I say we just follow orders and make sure they don't stir up any trouble, intentional or not." With a nod of agreement, they took off to catch up to the brothers Iwafutae. They had a job to do, and they weren't about to be caught 'sleeping' on it. Any one of the captains could be cruel to derelict responsibilities, not to mention how Kakashi would respond…
It didn't take them long to catch up. They made sure to stay in the shadows and keep an ear to the twins' conversations. The task wasn't at all difficult. The brothers were loud even as they chatted about seemingly useless topics. They discussed how they should address the people of the village, feeling they failed to communicate properly the other day. They discussed the beauty of the stone faces and how much it pained them to see the defiled state they had rested in.
They seemed as over-the-top as a certain green spandex laden elite jonin. They also seemed about as harmless, as long as something precious to them wasn't threatened. The ANBU guards weren't about to test any theories. They were perfectly willing to let well enough alone. Instead, they opted not to think too much about uncanny similarities in personality and instead continue their duties.
When they arrived at the spot of the former northern gate, they noticed a gathering team. An armored warrior rested against a ruined yet still stable wall, and a blue globe fluttered near his hidden face. They weren't certain, but they thought the two could be talking. They were certain, however, that he was carefully watching and guarding the red head around the corner.
She was talking to the village's hero about some matter they couldn't hear. They also noticed the lavender eyed girl standing next to him and lazy boy watching clouds not far away. They were likely preparing for a mission. Judging by their position, they were leaving via the northern gate.
Well, it wasn't so much a gate after Pein's rampage. The archway was collapsed, and the doors lay as little more than rubble along the path. The massive walls that once surrounded the humble gate lay in ruin, collapsed outward from the force of the techniques used. The proud defenses were but shambles of their former glory. They would be rebuilt, but a scar would always remain.
They didn't have time to reminisce as the brothers Iwafutae quickly started. They sat with heavy plops, raising a small dust cloud. As their hands flew through hand seals, their chakra flared. Nearby shinobi reacted, but the two ANBU present were able to easily quell fears. If they were present, there was either no threat or it was being dealt with. Most wanted the former, so they were willing to believe the chakra flare was for beneficial purposes.
The ANBU turned their attention back to Kanaeru's group when they heard shuffling gravel rushing that way. Seeing a pink haired medic, they returned their attention to the brothers Iwafutae. They really didn't need to concern themselves with the hero's longtime teammate coming to greet them. She was likely a part of the mission, anyway. The rough shape of a gate was already taking shape as globules of stone joined and solidified.
One of the ANBU happened to turn his attention to Kanaeru's group in time to see Naruto frozen stiff. He poked his partner's side to direct him to the attraction. A red haired child was tugging the blonde's arm, maybe trying to get his attention. A miko, they thought, watched the scene with a nervous smile. Yep, something most definitely interesting was going on, and they missed the lead up.
Kakashi looked up when the tent flap opened. He eyed Shizune questioningly, but he welcomed her in. "Well, I wasn't expecting you so soon. How's the medical staff handling things?" He was no expert on medical procedures, but he imagined it was difficult working without the proper facilities.
She nodded before reporting. "Well, the medic nin are handling everything as trained, but the civilian medics are finding it a bit harder to adjust. However…" She paused to collect her thoughts. "I'm not here for that right now." She nervously shifted as he steepled his hands and motioned for her to continue.
"Tsunade-sama's condition has stabilized, but it hasn't improved. She's still dangerously low on chakra, and her nervous system is…" She paused to swallow a lump in her throat. "It-It's not good. Her autonomic system's fine, so she no longer needs life support. However, she isn't responding well to other systems. Based on the jutsu she used and how much her chakra was depleted, indications are…"
Shizune didn't have to say anymore, and Kakashi finished for her. "…she may never be able to use jutsu again, even if she recovers from her coma." He looked down. Though he really was concerned for her, he still felt a pang of guilt hoping he wouldn't have to take her heavy responsibility as his own. He also knew, with such responsibility, he had to put aside personal feelings and move on. "How are the other patients?"
She nodded in appreciation of the change of subject. She loved Tsunade dearly, but she also had to keep her mind professional. "Most have been cleared enough to return to active duty. There are some I simply can't authorize release for. I know how desperate we are for money right now, and I know we have to portray a strong front. However…"
He raised his hand and shook his head. "I'm not sending shinobi on suicide missions. I've already made allowances for too much, and I'm not going to send good people out to die a second time." He eyed her pointedly. "Unless you personally approve them to return to active duty, I'll consider them on leave or suspension."
Shizune obviously sighed in relief. "May I speak freely?" He slightly nodded. "Why are you taking Sakura off my staff? I need all the talented medical staff I can use. She's an invaluable medic. You know as well as I that quantity can never make up for quality, and she's one of the most qualified medics I have on hand. Sending her out on a mission is just… We need her in the village."
Kakashi nodded. He couldn't help but agree. "You're right; we do." She was about to speak up in protest. "However, I have an obligation to protect my shinobi on the field. She is a trained and qualified field medic, and I have valuable assets traveling on an extended mission. As much as we need Sakura in the village, she's more useful earning money in the field while protecting assets on an extended mission."
He held up his hand to stop her next objection. "Shikamaru is leading a team including her, Naruto, and Hinata. They aren't just going on one, long, high-ranking mission. They are going on several high-ranking missions while setting up a base camp in an allied land."
She nodded. She hated to admit it, but he made his point. "Okay, but next time please consult with me before sending medics out of the village. We can't afford to lose any of them with how vulnerable we are, and I know just how skilled every medic is. At the very least, I can advise you on the best candidates for a given mission."
He easily gave her his acquiescence. "Next time, I'll consult you. For now, I'd like to know what we've learned from Danzou's corpse. I need to see what we can tell Raikage-sama about Hitohana's death, and I'd like to know if any information was leaked. Though I don't think he'd do anything to weaken the village, I need to know exactly what ROOT was up to."
She nodded and pulled out a small scroll. She slowly unfurled it and read the notes written on it. "The autopsy didn't reveal as much as we had anticipated, and Inoichi is still sifting through what he learned. We do know that, for some reason, his right arm and right eye were missing. Medical records indicate injuries to both, but no amputation is on record. There is also no indication if 'injury' to his eye meant it was missing or simply damaged."
She read further and paraphrased her notes on the findings. "The deeper analysis revealed nothing out of the ordinary. Nothing outside his records showed up in his muscle memory or chakra system. He was incredibly well fit for his age and physical deterioration. He also learned to use his left hand as well as his right, as would be expected. Let's see… No, nothing was out of the ordinary with blood type, DNA, or, well, anything."
He leaned back in his chair. It was almost as disturbing to find out that nothing was out of the ordinary as it was that such a powerful personality had betrayed Konoha. He couldn't help but think the old man was delusional, but his plans were too well thought out and executed to be mere ravings. Giving up on thinking it through without more facts, he returned his attention to the present. "Tell Ibiki; I want to see him. I want to close this case as quickly as possible."
She politely bowed and left. She knew the elite jonin was never one to rush through things. He was as careful at thinking and planning as he was good at appearing aloof. He was concerned for the village, so he wanted to make sure he didn't go and add to their enemies. Akatsuki was dangerous enough without Kumo declaring war as well. He was walking on dangerously thin ice, and Danzou only helped melt it further.
"Oh, hey Shion!" Naruto waved with a smile. Though he was confused to see her in Konoha, he was happy to see a friend again. He quickly jogged up to her, and he noticed the little girl stare at him a little awestruck. He didn't know why she stared at him like that, but he knew didn't really have time to find out. "Hey, I've gotta leave for a mission soon. How long you gonna be here?"
Shion smiled sadly. "I have to leave today." He pouted, and she shook her head. "Don't be like that, danna-chan. We'll have plenty of time to catch up some other time. For now, I've come to introduce you to Momo-chan." She indicated the young red head, and she ventured closer to the blond genin.
Naruto smiled and looked down to her. "Oh, so you're name's Momo, huh?" He held his hand out to shake hers. "Nice to meet'cha! I'm Naruto, and someday I'm going to be Hokage!" She grabbed his forefinger and pinky. He chuckled. "Oh, is she your kid?"
Shion blushed and looked down. "Her name's actually Momiji. We just call her our little Momo-chan." She smiled brightly. "Well, I guess you could say she's our child, danna-chan."
With one phrase, chaos broke out anew. Naruto's eyes went wide, and the color drained from his face. His body froze even before he felt killer intent and the sound of cracking knuckles coming from behind him. Just to add fuel to the fire, Shikamaru had to add his two cents. "You're so troublesome, Naruto. You want help digging your grave? I know this great spot, hardly needs any work."
He didn't have the energy to turn and glare at his strategic minded friend. He vaguely felt his arm being tugged on by the little girl. His mind raced with possibilities. Thanks to Jiraiya more so than the academy, he understood where children came from. He was very sure he had done absolutely nothing to have a child. There had to be some sort of misunderstanding!
He felt somebody slip in defensively behind him. He was surprised to think that Hinata came to his aid. He thought she would be the most upset, especially after her confession. "You don't understand!" He felt the killer intent die somewhat, but it was still intense enough to freeze him to the spot he stood. "Shion didn't mean it like that."
"How else could she have meant it?!" Sakura yelled. She knew Shion had feelings for Naruto. She would never forget the very unusual confession and carefully worded proposal. If he had taken advantage of her and left the care and responsibility of a child to her alone, she was sure as anything going to make sure her teammate, no matter how deep their bond, wound up back in the hospital. She cared for him, but there were certain lines you did not cross.
"He went and had a family without telling anybody…" Kanaeru trailed off. She was more upset that she didn't know, and she was using her killer intent to good effect. Her nephew was most certainly uncomfortable. "How can he expect people to respect him if he does something so irresponsible? What do you have to say for yourself, kit?"
Hinata shook her head vigorously. "Shion just adopted her in their names!" The killer intent simply vanished, and Naruto collapsed to a boneless heap on his rear. The little red haired girl seemed happy enough to sit in his lap and start poking his cheeks. "She… She rescued Momo-chan from something terrible, and she…she loves Naruto-kun."
Shion tilted her head to one side. "Honestly, why does everybody in Konoha have that reaction? Hinata fainted when I first told her. For some reason, all his so-called friends threatened to kill him when they first found out. Even if danna-chan were that irresponsible, I'd still love him and take care of our child. I'm Demons-sama for a reason."
Her smiling, warm expression melted any remaining negative feelings from Sakura and Kanaeru. They were about to speak up when Hinata turned around and criticized Shion with her hands balled into fists raised to almost shoulder level. "Oh Shion, why must you insist on calling Naruto-kun by danna-chan?" She pouted, obviously not happy. Though, her body language indicated she was on friendly terms with the daimyo priestess.
Shion tilted her head to one side. "Huh? Why shouldn't I? He's my danna-chan, after all. He promised to help me in any way he could, and I intend to keep him to that promise." She smiled lovingly at him. "He did tell me that he never goes back on his word. Something about it being his nindo."
Hinata's pout deepened. "It's not fair to hold that over him." She sighed as she thought of all the promises he made. He promised to become the greatest Hokage the village had ever seen. He promised to free the Hyuuga from their cast system. He promised to find Sasuke and bring him back to the village, and he made it a promise of a lifetime. He hated, more than anything, broken promises. He fought to make sure he never broke even the most seemingly insignificant promise.
Shion held up a finger in a lecturing manner. "I'm not holding anything over him. He made a promise, and I simply intend to collect on it." She looked down to see Momiji happily playing with Naruto. She seemed to take naturally to the jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi no Kitsune. "He deserves some happiness."
Hinata was about to object until she heard the last statement. She held her head down, bangs overshadowing her eyes. A small smile still managed to light her features. "Yes, yes he does. Naruto-kun most definitely deserves some happiness." Though they disagreed on one key fact, they were friends who mutually saw just what Naruto deserved in his future, happiness. In whatever else he had, they agreed he needed that one fulfillment.
Kanaeru sighed. "I hate to interrupt, but you did come here for a reason, right Shion?" She wasn't feeling too terribly patient. It was better if they left sooner rather than later. She wanted to take Momiji with them, but she wasn't really looking to have a long discussion before they left. She had other reasons, but she wasn't going to voice them. For the moment, she wanted to hear the daimyo priestess' decision.
Shion smiled sadly. "I thought long and hard about what we discussed, and I've decided to agree to your idea. However, I do have some terms!" She held up her hand and held out three fingers. As she listed demands, she lowered one finger. "First, I want at least weekly updates! I want to know how my precious Momo-chan is doing. Second, I want to be allowed to see her whenever I want. Third…"
She knelt down and hugged Momiji even as she sat in Naruto's lap. She laughed happily at the show of affection and wrapped her arms around her adoptive mother's arms. "I want your assurance that nothing, and I mean nothing, is going to happen to her. I love her dearly, and I'm going to miss her…"
Kanaeru sighed. She could see the obvious affection the two had for one another. Momiji felt safety and love in Shion. She felt the same warmth in Naruto. She was against separating loving families, but she needed to protect the jinchuuriki of the Hachibi no Ushi. "I can agree to those terms. However, I imagine a daimyo such as yourself can't find too much free time to travel all the way to see your adoptive daughter as often as you'd like."
Shion sniffled, and Momiji responded with a worried look. "No, I probably can't. However, I'm sure you'll find someway, if only to keep your promise. At least I'll know Momo-chan is safe. She'll be with danna-chan, and you are obviously interested in keeping her safe." She stood and wiped forming tears from her eyes. "Are you okay staying with Naruto-kun?"
Momiji's face lit up. "Can Momo-chan really stay with Naru-chi?" She waited expectantly as her adoptive mother nodded. "Yay! Momo-chan can stay with Naru-chi! Is Shinon-chi coming, too?" Her smile quickly turned into a frown at seeing a negative response. "Aw, but Momo-chan wants to be with Naru-chi and Shinon-chi."
Shion smiled even as she lightly chided the young child's selfishness. "Now, now Momo-chan, I can't always be with you. Don't worry; you'll have fun playing with Naruto-kun and everybody else. I have some very important business that can't wait. You understand, right Momo-chan?"
Though her frown deepened, Momiji nodded. Though she was treated kindly in the palace, she often felt alone when Shion had to attend state business. It was difficult for her to warm up to anybody, and she often hid from palace guards or servants until her adoptive mother was available again.
She liked Hinata because the shy heiress was gentle and open. She didn't take immediately to her, but she still felt safer around her than even the kindest guards. Naruto was something else all together. She felt warm and safe like she never had, and she just gravitated towards him. She at least understood she was in good company.
Naruto looked questioningly to Shion. "Wait, she's going with us." She managed to maintain a smile even as she sadly nodded. She was going to miss her adoptive daughter. He looked to Kanaeru. "Did you know that?" She half shrugged in acknowledgement. "Isn't it too dangerous for her? I mean; this is a ninja mission." He tried not to raise his tone, but his agitation was obvious. Momiji held tighter to him.
Kanaeru raised an eyebrow. "Oh, do you think you're incapable of defending one itsy-bitsy girl? I mean; your first mission is an escort mission. You think escorting Gayt, Star, and me justifies B-rank mission pay?" Naruto stuttered on a response. "We have a ways to go, and she seems very much attached to you. Make the best of it. At least it's still an easy mission."
Naruto heaved a sigh. She was right, of course. He thought the 'courtesy' mission was a bit too easy, but he wasn't going to complain. He had a feeling he'd see plenty of action once the real missions started. Having the innocent girl along would only make him pay more attention as they escorted his aunt and her entourage to…wherever they were going. He didn't see the point of keeping their destination a secret, but she was the client.
"Momo-chan…" When Momiji turned her attention to Shion, the daimyo priestess continued. "…promise you'll be a good girl for Naruto-kun. He can't be with you all the time, and he might ask you to stay with some people he trusts. They might have to read you bed time stories because of how long he'll be gone. You have to be good, even in those times."
Momiji nodded. She was excited to spend time with Naruto, but she wasn't sure about being away from Shion for so long. She was too confused to be jumping around joyously or wailing about sorrowfully. She opted to hold close to the protective warmth she felt from the blond genin. She could trust him, and she'd be a good girl if it meant seeing everybody again.
"Eep!" Loud noises nearby made her scream and nuzzle into the strong chest protecting her. She felt her body lifted, and the aura around her changed. The protective warmth was still there, but it was nearly overpowering. She was wrapped in a blanket that seemed to tell her she was safe. Then she felt disarming presences.
"ANBU-san, what's going on? Is the village under attack again?" Sakura voiced her concern with deliberate calm. She wanted to ease the young girl's anxiety, and she knew panicking would have the opposite effect. She also noticed how Kanaeru, Gayt, and Star had reacted more to the scream than unusual noises nearby.
One ANBU indicated the nearby gate. Though view of it was obscured by dilapidated walls, the meaning was clear. "Currently, the northern gate is under construction. Doton users are hastening repairs. We are not under attack, so please calm down. I hope the construction didn't frighten the child too much."
"Why are ANBU here if it's just construction?" Naruto looked to Shikamaru as the lazy chunin spoke. He never noticed his strategic minded friend get up, let alone move to stand next to him. He was grateful, nonetheless, in the obvious show of support. Not to defend him, of course, but to defend the innocent girl he held in his arms.
The first ANBU looked to the second, and he in turn sputtered for a response. To their surprise, Kanaeru easily answered. "They're supervising guests from Iwa, the Iwafutae brothers. They are very good at what they do, but their personalities put a lot of people off. I'm sure you've met eccentric dolts like them before. Don't worry, just ignore them."
"Anyway…" She groused. "We really need to get going." She turned her attention to Shion. "Thank you again for bringing her here. I promise we'll keep her safe from Akatsuki. I'll fight to keep their grubby hands off of her." She silently added to her promise. "They'll have to pry my cold, dead fingers from her, and I promise I'm taking as many of them with me as possible if that happens!"
Shion smiled sadly. "Y-Yeah…" She turned and politely bowed to Naruto. "Please take care of our daughter, danna-chan." With tears welling in her eyes, she turned and ran before she could change her mind. She knew Momiji would be safe with them. She trusted Naruto and Kanaeru. She felt safe with Naruto's friends, especially Hinata. There was no way they would let harm come to her precious adoptive daughter.
When she left Demons for her little vacation to Fire, she thought Momiji's biggest threats were from superstitious farmers and townspeople. She had no idea a far bigger plot was targeting her precious adoptive daughter. She also had no idea previously of the bijuu sleeping within her. She wasn't scared of her daughter, but she was scared for her. Akatsuki was like a shopping list of the worst criminals in the world, and they were after both her beloveds.
For Naruto's part, he watched dumbfounded. He didn't quite understand why Shion insisted on calling him husband, and he was even more confused about how Momiji was adopted in both their names. He shook his head and looked to his teammates for some answers. Shikamaru shook his head, and Sakura rolled her eyes. Hinata averted his gaze. He huffed. "I suppose I'm not getting answers that easily."
"Well, I'm team leader this time around. You've all worked with me before, so you already know what I expect." He turned respectfully to Kanaeru. "You're our client for all our missions, so I suppose we're taking orders from you. Mind if I ask where we're heading first? I'd like to know where we're setting up base camp."
"First, we're going to a little port town named after a local hero. You see; he saved them in a little known battle that set the tone for all subsequent battles against Kiri." She paused to try building anticipation. "We're heading for Minato!" She pouted when they didn't respond like she wanted. "That's not our final destination. We'll take a ferry, but where we're heading… It's a secret."
Shikamaru pushed past Naruto before the blond genin could retort. Understanding the message, he rolled his eyes and carefully positioned Momiji, so she could ride piggyback style. Though scared of the strange noises and rumbling, she was happy enough to oblige. She even giggled through sniffles, which brought as mile to Naruto's face. Hinata giggled happily, and Sakura shook her head in mirth.
Kanaeru rotated her arm in a mock stretch. Gayt fell into step beside her at her order to follow, and Star fluttered above his shoulder. The way she swayed back and forth seemed to indicate she was sitting on his shoulder. He looked at her for a moment then over his shoulder and nodded. "We'll do as Kanaeru-sama orders."
Without further conversation, the client, her entourage, and escort quickly crossed the village threshold. They heard the brothers Iwafutae complain about something as they left the unfinished gates, but they paid them no heed. Whatever they had to say, it seemed they didn't like the idea of people 'using' an unfinished masterpiece.
Three ninja rushed down the streets of Konoha as the sun reached its noontime peak. At the lead, a jonin wore a bandana to cover his scarred and bald head. Beside him, a blond jonin with his hair in a ponytail kept up, determined expression tightening his face. The third was a girl half covered in bandages. Her auburn hair sparkled in the sunlight, and her scowl spoke volumes of her mood.
Unnoticed by anybody but the most skilled shinobi, a squad of ANBU trailed them from the shadows. They kept eyes on the crowds for anything or anyone suspicious. They had to get the information to Kakashi. When they arrived at the makeshift headquarters, they formed a perimeter of extra protection for the interim Hokage.
Kakashi looked up when Ibiki, Inoichi, and Isaribi entered. He narrowed his visible eye and closed the folder he was working. As much as he hated paperwork, he knew he did not prefer the interruption he was being handed. He tented his hands and leaned against them with a shallow nod.
Ibiki stepped forward and easily started. "Danzou was killed with his own sword, and physical and chakra evidence links the same weapon to Hitohana's murder." He paused before declaring the obvious. "Danzou killed Hitohana against Tsunade-sama's orders and betrayed the village. I already have our best diplomats drafting a formal apology for Kumo and Raikage-sama."
He reached into a pocket and extracted several scrolls. He stopped forward long enough to place them on Kakashi's desk before stepping back and continuing. "I'd prefer to get it straight from the traitor's mouth, but I've put all my findings in those reports. In summary, Danzou's body was covered in scars and Fuuin that his service and medical records could not validate. He was missing an arm, so there's a possibility that whoever took it will use it to copy some jutsu."
"A thorough search of his residence turned up nothing, and ANBU squads are still searching for ROOT headquarters and other offices. Unfortunately, ROOT members have been most uncooperative. Most are either mute or sealed to prevent divulging secrets. They cannot reveal, willingly or otherwise, any information they know of Danzou or his operations."
The meaning was obvious. They didn't know if Danzou was working with anybody. They could only place him under house arrest in the first place because of evidence that he was working with Orochimaru. He twisted facts enough to convince the clan council that he was planning an assassination, and the planted operative, Sai, was the perfect alibi.
The jonin council wasn't nearly as convinced. They were willing to pay for ANBU operatives to keep an eye on him and his residence. They never found anything, and recent evidence suggested it was easy enough for him to slip out by using some sort of mind-control technique. They had to research it more.
They had no idea how he learned such strong techniques, and they had no idea how Uchiha chakra pathways related to it. Certain records on the Uchiha were still sealed and required both clan and jonin council to vote in the majority to unseal them. The Hokage could also order the records unsealed, but Kakashi didn't have the authority as the interim leader. It was going to be a long process unless Tsunade woke up soon.
Kakashi indicated Inoichi, since Ibiki seemed like he was finished. The mental master smoothly started his report. "Investigating ROOT members' minds has been a hassle. I don't believe Danzou was ever a Fuuin master, so I don't know how he got a hold of a Fuuin powerful enough to seal out the mind. I couldn't get any information out of them without killing them from mental trauma."
The atmosphere in the tent seemed to freeze over. Nobody really wanted to kill ninja potentially loyal to Konoha. There was still a chance to use them outside of Danzou's influences. The mental master decided to quickly continue. "Danzou's mind is another story. Well, what's left of it is anyway. Whoever killed him messed his mind up something fierce. I caught glimpses of a shadow image very prominently, but I can't tell you any details."
He indicated the scrolls on Kakashi's desk. "My findings are in with Ibiki's. They don't really add anything. We can speculate that the 'shadow image' is some sort of outside force. Based on how important the jinchuuriki are to their relationship, that person might be Akatsuki." He liked his lips, not liking the heavy assumption coming next. "Very possibly, that person is strong enough to be their leader."
Kakashi nodded. "We can't rule out the possibility, but we also can't just let that information out. We don't know for sure, and we don't want a mass panic. It's enough to tell Raikage-sama that Hitohana might have been killed for one of Akatsuki's plans. It might be better if we can relate the incident to one of the jinchuuriki."
"We may not need to." Ibiki ventured. When Kakashi indicated he should continue, he nodded and did just that. "Akatsuki may want to weaken the villages. Hitohana was a vital part of Kumo's elite forces. With how many key members Konoha and Suna have managed to take out, they may feel backed into a corner. They might be going after elites in retaliation to weaken the villages before moving in for the jinchuuriki. They could also be trying to pit the villages against each other."
Kakashi sighed. The possibility was too real. If Akatsuki wanted to sabotage relations, causing discord between the major ninja villages was certainly an effective method. The last thing he wanted was a fourth ninja world war starting. Konoha was too vulnerable, and they only had one solid ally, Suna. Shaking his head from such dire thoughts, he motioned for Isaribi.
She nodded and stepped forward to put a single scroll on his desk. "ROOT has operations outside of Konoha, and I've managed to effectively shut down their communications network. Jiraiya-sama managed to plant operatives a long time ago, but they could never get close enough to do anything but disrupt the flow of information or feed false reports."
"Even so, ROOT seemed to sort through information too quickly and establish what was false and what was not. Danzou had some other source of information that Jiraiya-sama could never sniff out. Nonetheless, he suspected ties with Rain, Akatsuki, or another organization seeking a coup de tat within Konoha and alliance with a more agreeable leader."
Kakashi nodded in understanding. She didn't have as much information as he'd like, but anything was better than nothing. Danzou was a very busy man. He had worked with Hanzou to crush a coup de tat within Rain, so he had no doubt the war hawk had his own plans for Konoha and how it should be run. It was worrisome that his spy network managed to avoid sabotage from Jiraiya's.
With their reports given, he handed them each a folder. As they opened them, he explained the contents. "Danzou managed to remain a mystery in a world of subterfuge and spy games. Even in his own village, he's managed to keep his records sealed. Because of his charisma, he convinced the clan council to be appointed as an advisor and 'watchdog' to the Hokage. Everything he has done for the village has become suspect."
He leaned back wearily in his chair. "You each have your assignments, until told otherwise. I need his entire background checked and rechecked. I need to know what he has manipulated and how far back his manipulations go. I need to know how and where he learned that jutsu, and I want to know who, if anybody, he was serving. If you run into any walls, tell me. I'll try to get the clan council to go along with my requests."
They nodded in agreement. They also understood what he meant. The jonin council wouldn't be a problem. They concentrated on internal affairs and made sure their decisions were most inline with the citizens of Konoha. The clan council, on the other hand, sometimes let political or economical ties blur their values. It was a difficult situation and a very difficult line to walk.
They looked up when the tent flap opened. A ninja with a messenger bird on his shoulder was standing with a small scroll. Kakashi motioned for him to enter, and he went over the diplomatic parchment without dismissing the others. He wanted their opinions anyway. It was of great interest to Konoha to get the message to Kumo as quickly as possible, but they also wanted to make sure nothing said could start an international incident that could possibly lead to all out war.
"Hold up, guys." Naruto gently called out. Everybody quickly came to a stop and looked to him confusedly. They knew he would be the last to get tired. He was looking over his shoulder with some concern. "Um, she's asleep. Should we stop here? I mean; this is the first time she's been away from Shion, right?" He didn't exactly know what to think.
Kanaeru let out an exasperated sigh; though, she wore a smile on her face. Her nephew was certainly an entertaining one. "Nah, we should keep moving. We can't afford to stay in one place too long, and she's sound asleep anyway. Don't worry kit; kids just fall asleep like that. Just use your ninja training not to disturb her." She gave him a reassuring wink.
He blushed in embarrassment and nodded. When he caught up, they were quickly off again. They traveled swift and silent through the trees. They kept their senses sharp and on the lookout. They didn't want to be ambushed by Akatsuki members. As such a large group, they stood out no matter how careful they were. Their combined chakra, even suppressed, could easily attract the attention of trained warriors.
There was no tension between any members of the group. Any misgivings or unspoken words were forgotten to the intense desire to protect the innocent in their group. They instinctively formed a protective perimeter around Naruto. Hinata activated her kekkei genkai from time to time to ensure they were surprised by unwelcomed company. They had a long way to travel to the port city of Minato, and it wasn't a guarantee Akatsuki couldn't penetrate so deeply into Fire territory.
Hinata held up a fist, and everybody came to an immediate stop. Naruto reflexively shifted Momiji to better protect her and keep an eye out. Hinata and Sakura stood shoulder to shoulder directly behind him, acting as a first line of defense and shield. Shikamaru and Kanaeru stood to either side. Gayt stood at the front with Star circling.
They stood for several tense moments as they watched the surroundings with enough intensity to freeze any fleeing fauna. Even the flora seemed to still at their gaze. The forest grew as silent as they were just moments ago, and it was as still as their breaths caught in their throats. They didn't know what to expect, and Hinata continued to watch with Byakugan blazing.
A smirking ninja walked out into the opening with arms raised disarmingly. He wore a cloud symbol upon his hitai-ate, and he carried more swords than feasible to wield. His smirk broke with a single word. "Yo!" He didn't seem at all concerned with how badly he was outnumbered. When they didn't lower their guard any, he simply plopped to the ground with legs crossed and hands on his knees. "Come on, the Kira Bii isn't here to fight."
"What are you doing here?" Kanaeru asked crossly. She was in no mood to play games. She wanted to get to the port city of Minato as quickly as possible and move on to their final destination. The last thing she wanted was an interruption. She also didn't like how he looked knowingly to Momiji and Naruto.
"I've never met another jinchuuriki before." Shikamaru looked to Naruto as the stranger spoke. "It's a pleasure to meet you! My friends tell me your jinchuuriki for the Kyuubi no Kitsune." His smirk morphed into an amorous smile. "I see you're protecting the cute miss there! I'm glad to see jinchuuriki can get along."
He instinctively tilted his head back when he felt cold steal against his neck. His smile changed to an arrogant smirk when he looked into the green eyes of the red haired kunoichi. She had him at his mercy. He couldn't move. "My, ain't you the pretty one. Want a date with the Kira Bii?"
She pressed her advantage, drawing a trickle of blood. He swallowed harshly as if to prove he wasn't afraid. "What are you doing here? Are you with Akatsuki?" If he knew Naruto was the jinchuuriki of Kyuubi no Kitsune, he could be after her nephew and the innocent girl. She couldn't risk him getting too close. "Keep your eyes out, Akatsuki don't travel alone!"
He chuckled. "I ain't with them. They can't even appreciate a good artist! Erk!" He was forced to lean back as she pressed her surprisingly sharp-edged chain into his neck. "I'm here to give ya'll some word." She lessened her pressure ever so slightly. "Akatsuki tried to kill me for a bijuu I don't have, so I thought it prudent to let the real jinchuuriki know."
"Humph…" She backed off, but she continued to hold a defensive posture. "We already know what Akatsuki's up to." She briefly looked over her shoulder to see Shikamaru's reaction. She wasn't sure if he already knew. She didn't see anything of concern, so she quickly returned her scrutinizing gaze to the unwelcome company. "You expect me to believe you made the journey all the way from Kumo just to tell us that?"
His smirk broadened. "I owe the cute miss there a favor. She's a real lifesaver, and I owe her family a lot." He chuckled. "You're right, though. I didn't travel all the way from Kumo just for that." He pointed his thumb to the center of his chest. "I'm here on vacation!"
Collectively, expressions fell. They couldn't help it. He possibly gave them the dumbest reason of all. He basically admitted that he had run away, like a delinquent child. As they sobered from dumbstruck, Shikamaru was the next to speak out. "Does your village know you're gone?"
Kira Bii shrugged. "Dunno, but they might think I'm dead." They were struck dumb once again. "I got in this real nasty fight against some Akatsuki punk looking to make a name for himself. I think he said he was an Uchiha or some nonsense, but I can't be bothered to remember." He picked at his ear and flicked whatever he found away.
"Wait!" Naruto exclaimed, partially waking Momiji from her slumber. She groggily looked around, head rolling on her neck. Blearily, her gaze locked on what he was looking at. "Did you say you saw Sasuke?! Where?!" In his excitement, he forgot he was carrying a child on his back. He hadn't realized he had partially woken her from her slumber, and she was slowly becoming fully aware.
Once again, Kira Bii shrugged. "Someplace outside Kumo, I s'pose. He suddenly attacked me thinking I was jinchuuriki of the Hachibi no Ushi." He chuckled. "I coulda kicked him into next week, too. I decided to let him think he'd captured me. Didn't make my friends all that happy. Not an experience I want to repeat, really."
Kanaeru held up her hands to stop the conversation before it got out of hand. "Okay, so you saw the Uchiha brat! We don't really have time for that." She heaved a sigh. "You've delivered your message, so you can leave now. We don't have time to waste with you. We don't tell Konoha that you're here without permission if you leave us peacefully…now!"
"Eh, nii-nii?" All attention shifted to Momiji. She groggily rubbed her eyes. She looked at Kira Bii confusedly. "Wha're you doing here?" She didn't seem afraid of him, but she did snuggle closer to Naruto. She was either seeking added warmth or being shy.
A huge smile broke out on Kira Bii's face. "Ah, the cute miss is awake!" She shrunk away further, obviously shy. She barely peaked at him, unsure of him. "It's good to see you! I hope that old man's all right. It's too bad he couldn't do the same thing for Yugito-chan, but things happen."
Kanaeru renewed her defensive. She pressed her chain into the ground, and rock spike appeared around him and took the shape of chain links. He was forced to all fours in a submissive bow. "You're making yourself rather suspicious again. How did you know about her when this is the first time she's ventured outside of Demons?"
He chuckled, obviously amused. He didn't seem frightened despite his obvious disadvantage. He looked up enough to see Shikamaru preparing a hand seal. "Talk about overkill. That pineapple head's a Nara, and I'm already immobile." He barely grunted when she stomped on his hand, carefully out of the girl's vision. Her message is obvious. "I don't know if I wanna tell ya."
She bent down and very suggestively leaned forward. He took advantage of her angle and stared down her cleavage. Her green eyes close enough, he looked into them and was about to use another of his lines when a rock slammed into his chin. She carefully whispered to him. "I'm very good at killing people without anybody else noticing. I'd rather that precious little girl witness another battle."
Her message was clear and he lowered his head. "That cute miss witnessed a battled?" He only needed to see her shadow nod. Overdramatically, he bellowed his distaste. "Oh, to witness a child's innocence washed away! Nay, it was stolen from her! Oh, the pang of sadness, nay regret, in my heart is too much to bear! What evil, what terrible evil defiles such a cute mind!"
Kanaeru palmed her face, an expression shared by Sakura. Hinata tilted her head to one side nervously. Shikamaru and Naruto rolled their eyes; the latter only because of Momiji. She made some startled noise and buried her face into the back of his jacket. If they said he was over the top, they'd make a grave understatement.
With a heavy sigh, Kanaeru decided to stop his wallowing. "Oh, would you stop that. We don't have all day to indulge you. We're trying to get our cute guest somewhere she's safe from Akatsuki." She held up her hand when he looked at her with an obvious question. "Before you ask, I am not telling you, and you cannot come!" She made her point and was obvious adamant.
Kira Bii decided not to press the issue. "You know Demons has non-aggression pacts with all the shinobi villages?" His question was more a statement, but he received the answer he was expecting in a group of nods. "Well, sometimes the villages want to inspect the land, make sure they ain't setting up any unauthorized ninja villages. Well, I was sent there once."
His smirk only widened at their questioning expressions. "Ya see; I met the cute miss on that visit. It was quite enlightening. I found out a lot about jinchuuriki and bijuu. The best thing is, I left Demons with one less burden." He tilted his head to one side. "I was the Kumo's jinchuuriki for the Hachibi no Ushi!"
Please don't forget that I have a new poll up, and my forum is open. I got my final grade back for my last class, and it's nice to see an A helping my GPA rather than a B hurting it. I'm also starting another one (hopefully easier) as my retail work heads into the dreaded (for employees, not employers) Golden Quarter. I'm thinking of taking December "off" from this fan fiction to help recuperate and dedicate time to Full Metal Alchemist: Fate, Alchemy, and Bridges.
You know I had to put a Shion moment in. Momiji had to get to the group somehow, and I couldn't help myself.
...and, no! I am not writing verse for Kira Bii! I'm including him for now out of necessity! I hate how he talks, and I'm not completely sold on his character. If somebody wants to follow up my releases with "more appropriate" lines for him, be my guest. Do enjoy!
As always, reviews are appreciated, and flames outright ignored.
Story Word Count: 8,022
Story Page Count: 16
Terms and Jutsu:
danna - husband
nindo - way of the ninja