Yo..
Thank you for all the awesome reviews, I really appreciate you answering my question. And a special thanks to all my guest readers, since I can't get into contact with you...I'm thanking you for the support which you have given this story.
Man, so many things have to be put together in these last chapters of this arc. Trying to close up loose ends is a real pain in the ass which every writer has to go through.
The title of this chapter is taken from a epic story in my culture. So, this title does not signify a jutsu, or power...it rather shows something else which I'm sure will be found in this chapter if you observe keenly.
Enjoy the chapter...
Chapter 51
Chakravyuh
Mikasa was quite intrigued by the place where she was currently standing. Judging from the rust and dirt on the walls, was a clear indication that this place had been abandoned for years. The corridors were empty, but there were a few small rooms with comfortable beds.
There were broken shelves everywhere in which there were a few old swords, besides a few scrolls and kunai.
It looked like an old traditional military base.
Her eyes shifted outside of the small window and she found herself staring at an entire town, the only mysterious thing was that there was not a single human being anywhere, nor she could feel any human presence besides her group.
"What is this?" asked Iwashi curiously,
"You're standing inside the fallen village called 'Uzushiogakure'. This will be your new home for now..." said Naruto calmly, as he walked forward but was stopped when Mikasa put her hand on his shoulder.
"Isn't this the village that was destroyed in the previous war?" asked Mikasa sharply, as he smiled on seeing her accuracy.
"Yes"
"But it belonged to the Uzumaki clan, and after the war the other villages ransacked it before sealing this place. How the hell did you get in?" asked Rangiku curiously,
"Well, for starters I have a Uzumaki comrade who was once a part of this village. So, I do have the key to get in and out of this village undetected...but I don't need that because I can simply teleport myself and you guys" explained Naruto briefly,
"Nobody would look for us in this place, it's practically a ghost town that has been abandoned for years. But how are we supposed to survive here without any supplies? More than that, how long are we supposed to stay here?" asked Genma seriously,
The Blacklight watched intently as Naruto made a small whistle and a person slowly emerged from the shadows. Everyone in the room took out their weapons and quickly got into defensive formation.
"Who are you?" asked Mikasa in a threatening manner,
"Well, I think you should give some respect to the Mizukage, Mikasa" said Naruto jokingly,
"WHAT!"
"Keep your knickers on...for now you only need to know that he was being controlled by Madara, but I have freed him and he's on our side now" said Naruto quickly,
He was not at all intimidated when Mikasa was inches away from his face as her calm blue eyes glared at him dangerously.
"You should have told me, Naruto" said Mikasa angrily, as he got an amused smile on his face.
"What? That I'm hiding the Mizukage here...where's the fun in that? And you would like to step back a little...or I might just kiss you" said Naruto mischievously, and he chuckled when Mikasa's cheeks went bright red and she quickly took a few steps back.
"You-"
"I see you've brought some new guests here. Are they friend of yours?" asked Yagura curiously,
"Hai, just show them the place and share our supplies with them. All of you are some of the most wanted fugitives right now...this place will keep you safe and also act as a base of operations" said Naruto seriously,
"I see" said Yagura silently, and gave an acknowledging nod to Mikasa who was still looking at him suspiciously.
"Naruto, you need to be honest with me. Just what are you trying to do? We thought the Mizukage was dead...and now we find out he's working with you" said Anko suspiciously,
Her mysterious comrade didn't answer her question but instead made a hand seal as a large board consisting of the shinobi world map emerged from the ground. Everyone was a little surprised when Naruto pointed his finger at that map.
"I am going to create an empire by uniting all the villages, whether they be big or small. I will establish the Holy Empire of Japan...and that is my dream. That is what Yagura and Kushina are assisting me for" said Naruto honestly,
"Is this Kushina the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki that attacked us?" asked Genma angrily,
"Correct, but she was being controlled. And before you question her loyalty you need to remember that I am the one with the Mangekyo...so I know it's true that she was under a genjutsu. So either you can believe me or not, it's all up to you" said Naruto flatly, and his comrades sighed tiredly.
"This dream sounds a little impossible, Naruto..." said Rangiku carefully, as she didn't want to hurt his emotions after just gaining him back.
"Not if I have the support of my comrades. I know it seems too unrealistic, but I'm asking you to believe...not in me, but in the dream of peace for which our friends sacrificed themselves. Through this empire, we can bring peace...I already have Kiri on my side, all I'm asking is for you to believe" requested Naruto politely,
He watched curiously as his comrades looked at each other, there was a lot of suspicion in their eyes...but he deeply hoped that his friends would be able to see the bigger picture, because without them the empire would be meaningless.
"He's right, you know. All our lives, we fought for our village like any other ninja...only to be thrown aside for political advantages. This world has only given us hate and suffering, but Naruto was there for us every time. He risked everything for us...and I don't know whether I believe in the empire, but I do know that I believe in Naruto. So count me in, Captain" said Iwashi proudly,
Naruto was pleased when Iwashi stepped beside him and gave an affirmative nod. Within a few moments, the Rookie Blacklights too joined his side...leaving only Mikasa, Rangiku, Genma, Anko, Shizune, Izumo and Hana.
"I swore to stand by your side...and I'm not gonna break that oath now" said Mikasa seriously,
"Fuck, do I even have a choice?" asked Genma sarcastically, but Naruto understood the deeper meaning behind those words.
"Well, anything for you..." said Rangiku cheerfully, bringing a satisfied smile on his face.
Naruto went forward and was now standing beside Izumo and Hana who were currently resting on the ground as Shizune was healing their wounds. They were out of danger due to his help, but it would take a day or two before they could be fit for duty.
"What do you say, Izumo?" asked Naruto patiently, Izumo was his closest friend and trusted comrade and it was vital to have him on his side.
"What are friends for..."
Naruto sighed in relief as his comrades were on board with his plan, because he was definitely going to need their assistance in order to fulfill his next objectives.
"Yosh...today I announce the creation of Holy Empire of Japan!"
Yagura and the others were a little taken back with this announcement, but there was something in Naruto's eyes that made them want to believe him. This empire was the only thing he was living for...and after watching his intelligence on that beach, he had little doubt that Naruto could really go through with this crusade.
Right now they didn't have anything to back this dream, except for Naruto and his will. But every new world is led by an ambitious leader who shows the right path to the people.
Hashirama Senju had united the war torn nations and converted them into villages. That system had indeed reduced the wars, but it was not a complete success...Naruto's system seemed like a more improvised version of their current world.
But they needed a plan...
"How will we do this? This empire can't be made with wishes alone..." replied Mikasa harshly, but that devious look in his eyes made her a little nervous.
Naruto took out a few pictures from his pouch and placed them on the table for everyone to see.
"What is this? I don't understand..." said Yagura in confusion,
"In order to create the empire the "Heavenly Alliance" of Kiri, Kumo and Iwa must fall. Their defeat would bring more than half of the shinobi world under my empire...but first we need to end this war and totally crush these 3 villages. Kiri has already surrendered thanks to Yagura and the new Mizukage is willing to cooperate with Konoha. Now, you guys come into the picture..." said Naruto seriously,
"What do you need from us?" asked Anko curiously,
"Mikasa, Anko, and rookies...I want you to complete a mission for me. Everything depends on your success"
"What is this mission? Explain it to us..." said Mikasa flatly, as Naruto pointed his finger at the picture of two Iwa shinobi, one was in her teens while the other was a bulky man who appeared to be in his mid-30's, though she could see some similarities in them.
"Who are these idiots?" asked one of the rookie blacklight,
"They are Kurotsuchi and Kitsuchi, granddaughter and son of the Tschuikage. I want you to capture them..." said Naruto deviously, as everyone was shocked on learning his ambition.
"Striking the Kage's family directly when they are this close to defeat would break Ohnoki's morale...and after the war, he will use these two as a bargaining chip to pressurize that old geezer. Even if he is a stubborn Kage, Ohnoki loves his granddaughter the most...his economy is in shambles, so he will have to join the empire. And he can't be stubborn and go against his people's wishes as Naruto would kill his family. Checkmate for Iwa" thought an astonished Yagura..
He just couldn't believe that this 15 year old boy was basically bringing everyone to their knees...but then again he was Naruto Namikaze, son of the yellow flash. One way or another he was destined for great things.
But this empire would make Naruto immortal in history...and from his strategy it just might be possible.
"This is dirty, Naruto..." said Anko hesitantly, as he shot her a harsh glare.
"We are Blacklight...our hands are already drenched in blood. Our friends were sacrificed, you guys were abandoned like trash...it's your choice Anko, do you want to live in such a world? Or be willing to do whatever it takes to build a better world" said Naruto fiercely,
"Hai"
"But we don't even know their location, nor can we go out of this place. It's impossible..." said Mikasa truthfully,
"I've already taken care of that. They are at Shinjuko passage with an Iwa company preparing to defend an advance of 2nd company of Blacklight. Take this scroll with you... it contains my blood clone which will teleport you there. I cannot be seen, so it will be up to your team to neutralize the enemy forces and capture the targets. Leave no evidence behind...after you are finished my blood clone will get you back here" explained Naruto briefly, and he tossed a red colored scroll to Mikasa.
"What's a blood clone?" asked Mikasa curiously,
"For now, it's an advanced version of shadow clone that can last longer and take multiple hits. You leave tomorrow...until then don't open the scroll, try to preserve the clone's chakra as it can even assist you in fighting if the situation gets dire. But use it only as a last resort...the Akatsuki should not get wind of this or I'm dead. Do you understand, Mikasa?" asked Naruto seriously, as she looked at him confidently.
"Loud and clear. I won't let you down..." promised Mikasa confidently, as he gave her a thankful nod.
"Rangiku, I want you to gather as much information on Killer Bee. He's the Hachibi (Eight) tailed Jinchuuriki of Kumo and is considered a family member of the Sandaime Raikage. Bee is the partner of the Raikage's son A...and from what I know they are like brothers. Find out where that man is, I will defeat him personally and capture him. This will significantly destroy Kumo's military power and if I threaten to execute Bee, I'm sure the enemy would surrender. They cannot stand against my father and the Sannin without Bee on their side. Take my blood clone with you..'' commanded Naruto, and tossed her another red colored scroll.
"I'll find him out, I promise" said Rangiku faithfully,
"Thanks"
"Genma, I want you to gather information on Danzo Shimura. He's the person Baku's been collaborating with and could possibly be a co-conspirator behind your mission. Find out every dirty secret about this bastard and his possible connections with Baku...this is my last blood clone which will help in your mission," said Naruto seriously, and tossed the last red colored scroll to his comrade.
"I'll have to visit Konoha and check if the Anbu blackops have any information on this Danzo. But don't worry, the village is not much secure as before since majority of our forces are at war. And I can easily get past the Police force and few Anbu guarding the records room...I'll keep your blood clone out of this" explained Genma confidently,
"Get it done" said Naruto quickly, as he turned towards his other comrades.
"Izumo, Hana and Shizune. You three will stay here and co-ordinate these missions while regaining your strength. I want you back at your full strength..." said Naruto calmly, as they smiled on seeing the affection which he had for them.
"You got it, Captain" said Hana silently,
"Naruto...you probably know this. But on behalf of everyone, I want to thank you for saving our lives...I'm glad you're back" said Izumo faithfully,
"Thanks, Izumo. I can never abandon my friends...and I thank all of you for your support in this dream" said Naruto gratefully,
"Anytime"
He then turned towards Yagura who was patiently waiting for any kind of orders from him.
"Yagura, I need you to stay here for a while and protect these people. When the time comes, I will call for you in order to crush the Heavenly Alliance...after that I'll make you and Kushina testify on the claim of Madara's existence and how you were played like puppets. She's currently gathering physical evidence to expose the Akatsuki and their true goals...if everything goes as per plan this war would be over in a few days, and the empire shall be established" explained Naruto briefly,
"I will do it...but what would be my role after that?" asked Yagura curiously,
"You will protect the people of this world against Madara and the Akatsuki. You wanted to atone for your sins, then this is the way through which you can make amends...when your innocence is proved, Mei will allow you to return to Kiri. You can finally go home..." said Naruto calmly,
And the Blacklight members were surprised when a wide smile came on the Mizukage's face. It was as if for the first time he had gained some hope for himself...
"Thank you..."
Naruto now finally turned towards his last comrade, who was looking at him expectantly.
"Iwashi"
The said boy stepped forward and was a little intrigued when Naruto offered him a picture of very familiar seal.
"Is this what I think it is?" asked Iwashi in shock,
"I want you to find a way to break this seal" said Naruto honestly, and he was not surprised when Iwashi was frightened on hearing his words.
"Naruto, this is treason. We will be violating the constitutional rights of those people...and even if I want to do it, it's impossible. I just don't know the formula..." stated Iwashi flatly,
"First, we are already traitors in Konoha's eyes for now. Second, you have to find a way to break this seal if we want to stop the civil war in Konoha..."
"CIVIL WAR?" yelled all of them in unison,
"Yes, when I'll start creating this empire I will allow the other villages to choose their own leader...I won't take away their freedom. But at the same time, I would intertwine our economies by opening free trade among all the nations. Our isolation is the reason behind these wars, if there is no scarcity of resources the villages would lose their primary reason for war. I will create an international body comprising of representatives of all the villages of the world who shall maintain the peace by presenting the problems faced by their people. Everyone would be treated as equals...and peace can be gained through words and not by military power or wars...
...But Baku and some other forces in Konoha won't let that happen. He wants Konoha to solely rule over the world" said Naruto gravely,
"Then what's the problem in that? It's not like those villages have done anything good for us.." said Genma bitterly,
"This is what we need to change. We need to let go of the past, if Konoha tries to rule over the world...then in a few years a new war would start and more people like our friends would die. You cannot take away a person's freedom and pride...a human would die then let his fundamental beliefs be destroyed by people like Baku. Co-operation and understanding is the way to peace...not dominance"
"You think Baku and his associates would revolt against your father? And these people would join him?" asked Iwashi seriously,
"They hate my father from the start. He wants peace, and would support this empire. But in order to stop Baku from getting more powerful you have to break this seal which will allow my father to persuade these people to not revolt. Still, there would be traitors...but casualties can be reduced. I've already got Raido and Yamato spying on Baku and from what I know, he's meeting some shady people like Danzo. Civil war is imminent in Konoha" said Naruto truthfully,
"This is bad..." said Izumo worriedly,
"Not if we do something about it. Raido and Yamato are trying to gather proof about your mission, if you guys can give your testimony while presenting the captured Kumo commander and the remaining Kinkaku squad to testify your claim...your innocence would be proved, while Baku would be caught. On seeing Mikasa and you guys, the rest of our comrades in our company would support your claim and reveal that bastard's truth, and Baku would be crucified"
"Naruto..." said Rangiku in awe,
"I am creating this empire in order to stop this chain of hatred. I will do it...there will be foolish people who will oppose this peace, and I will destroy them all" said Naruto without any hesitation
"Naruto, even if your intentions are noble...the people of this world will forever remember you as a tyrant. You will become the center of hatred...the other Kages and ninja won't agree to form the empire unless you are punished for your crimes. Even if it is injustice, they will demand your head" said Mikasa worriedly, and that satisfied smile on his face shocked her immensely.
"You knew you are going to die..." said Rangiku angrily, as he just looked at her calmly.
"Naruto, as the price of casting of your will on other people, you..." thought Yagura sadly, to think he would go this far...
"Only those willing to be killed should think about destroying evil..."
His words brought tears in Rangiku's eyes, while Mikasa and the others were just staring at him...
"Mikasa, I will make this sacrifice and return to Armin's side. It will be up to you guys to carry this peace forward..."
"Naruto, you..."
"If you ask me, you are the final chapter for us Blacklights. Commander Fox was the perfect first chapter...but the second chapter was a failure, me. One that Han and Armin would not acknowledge" said Naruto sadly, and for the first time his friends spotted the tremendous guilt in his eyes.
"The story must end with a perfect last chapter...one that shall overshadow all my failures, Mikasa"
Before Mikasa could say anything to him, Naruto started disappearing in his pocket dimension as she ran forward towards him.
Naruto felt something inside his heart, this strange feeling when he saw the vast amount of love which she had for him. But he also knew that he didn't deserve it...not after what he had done.
"Mikasa, you inherited my will...that was the only thing I really wanted to pass on to you. You don't need me anymore..." said Naruto peacefully,
She tried to grab his arms but he was already intangible and had started to disappear in his pocket dimension.
"I won't let you die. I don't care what you've done...Naruto, I will drag your ass back to Konoha. There is no way I will lose you now..." said Mikasa fiercely,
He looked at his comrades who too had similar feelings in their eyes which brought a contented smile on his face.
"I tried to do everything once, and almost lost myself...but this time, I leave the rest to my comrades"
"I leave the Blacklight to you"
His words ran across her mind, as she understood why he had written them in his letter. He had planned this out from the start...
"Naruto, you're not just a true ninja...but also a good person and loyal friend" thought Genma sadly,
"Wait-" yelled Mikasa, as he disappeared inside his pocket dimension
"Take care, Mikasa"
Mikasa's fists clenched tightly, as she tried to control her anger. There was no way she would lose him again...even if the entire world turned against him, she would protect him no matter what.
"Moron...I won't let you die. I won't"
Author's Notes: End of chapter.
I believe this chapter answered many questions as to how Naruto will create his empire, he has practically planned every little thing. Though, I bet this chapter raised a few more questions, didn't it?
Commander Fox's real name was Han (Just in case, if any of you forgot)
Though I'm not sure about his fate...since he definitely doesn't want to live. He's such a complex characters, at the core he is Naruto who wants peace for the world and protect his comrades like his Cannon counterpart...but his beliefs are similar to Kakashi and Nagato.
I think that I subconsciously recreated the Ame orphans in the form of:
Armin= Yahiko/Good Obito
Naruto= Nagato/Kakashi
Mikasa= Konan
Rangiku=Rin
The real crazy fun is just about to start...last 4 chapters of this arc are left now.
What do you think about Naruto's plan to create the empire?
Leave lots of reviews if you want quick updates (What? Just Kidding...)
