It was during Konoha's chunin exams that major changes to the canon started to take place. All of Konoha's 12 participated in the event just like in the TV show, but everything else was different.
First of all, Gaara and his siblings never came. That caused some major changes to the death rate and final matchups. Orochimaru also didn't masquerade as anyone, causing, even more of the participants to live and for Sasuke to never be infected by the cursed seal.
In fact, the invasion didn't happen at all.
Kioshi kept a close eye on events during this time and was almost disappointed when the snake didn't appear. He thought that this might be his chance to take down the dangerous Sannin.
Thinking about it though, the lack of the event made sense. Konoha's relationship with Suna was much better in this timeline due to Kioshi providing more beneficial trade between them. Kioshi also suspected that Danzo had something to do with the abuse and desperation that pushed the wind nation to such actions in the TV show.
Why else would the strong "retired" village elder stay hidden away during the invasion? The man was in on the plot. Danzo likely wanted Orochimaru to kill Hiruzen. Konoha would then be forced to reinstate and promote him if no other S-rank stepped in.
Now, however, Danzo was gone, and Kioshi was an additional S-rank within Konoha. Orochimaru would be a fool to attack without proper force.
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A few months later the lack of conflict created a rippled effect. Kioshi was in the middle of training when he was called into the Hokage's office.
"Kioshi," The Hokage greeted solemnly when he entered. "Something terrible has happened in Suna that needs immediate attention."
"What is it?" the teenager asked.
"It is quite unfortunate," Hiruzen sighed. "Suna's Jinchuriki has gone out of control and has devastated a large part of their village. The Kazekage has asked for our aid."
Kioshi blinked. Gaara? Out of control?... He admitted that sounded like the boy, at least before Naruto had set him straight. Crap… Naruto never battled Gaara in this timeline. Was this a consequence of that?
"Indeed," the Hokage sighed gravely at his frown. "It is much like what the nine-tailed fox did to us years ago. The Kazekage has managed to drive the beast away, but it injured him, and he does not know when it will return. Others in the wind nation are also at risk. Suna does not have another S-rank to deal with the problem. They have called upon us to help them bring the threat back under control."
Kioshi's brow furrowed. "You think I will be strong enough to defeat a tailed beast?" He had progressed in skill over the years, but he wasn't confident to that point yet. It usually took at least two S-ranks to defeat a tailed beast that was rampaging, if not more.
"I plan to have Kakashi Hatake join you," the Hokage replied to his worry. "He is currently on a B-rank mission with his old genin students as you are probably aware. They are scheduled to get back today, but I wished to discuss the situation with you beforehand so that you can move out as soon as possible. I understand that this task will be dangerous, but many in the wind nation will die if we don't act. Suna is our ally. They stand with us against Kumo. We may need their help in the future. The one-tail is the weakest out of the beasts, so I hope it can be defeated without major injury. If not, you and Kakashi can retreat and we will send reinforcements. "
"Do you know why Suna's Jinchuriki is acting this way?" Kioshi asked, hoping for more information. He guessed Gaara had simply given in to Shukaku's blood lust due to being angry at the village, but this could be Tobi's doing. The rouge Uchiha could be making his move against the tailed beasts, using his Sharingan to agitate it. Maybe someone saw something…
The Hokage sighed. "No. Though Suna's Jinchuriki has been known to be unstable and homicidal. The situation is dire enough that the Kazekage has given us permission to kill the boy if necessary. Suna wishes for you to visit them beforehand so that the village elders can follow and seal the beast into a new host if necessary."
Kioshi frowned. The Kazekage was willing to throw away his son so easily? That wasn't much of a surprise. In the anime, the Kazekage had sent assassins against Gaara many times.
It was likely because the Kage feared this type of outcome. The seal placed on the boy had been sloppy. Most Jinchuriki could only hear their demon prisoner with effort and meditation, but the one-tail seemed to be able to plague Gaara constantly. This caused insanity to form.
The worst thing was that no one could do anything to fix it. Konoha only knew seals specific for sealing the fox, and Suna's competent demon scrolls and seal masters had been lost during the last war.
Kioshi had researched the issue for this very reason. He'd felt Gaara's unstable energy once during his trading trips and had wanted to help. Maybe with enough information, a new seal could be invented…
Sadly, each village kept its demon characteristics and sealing techniques extremely classified. This helped prevent other villages from stealing their beasts. Suna didn't quite trust them enough to open up their archives. That, or it was a pride thing.
Learning new intricate seals also took a lot of time. Kioshi hadn't dedicated himself to fuinjustu of this nature, so he didn't have a good base to start with.
The benefits didn't seem worth putting energy into right now. He needed to focus on learning things that would best help him defeat Tobi and the Akatsuki. After that, other projects would receive attention.
"So if we can't disable the boy, then no retribution whatsoever will follow for killing him?" Kioshi reiterated, just to make sure.
The task would be easier to accomplish if this was the case. Not only would he and Kakashi be able to go full out against the threat, but once a demon's host died, its chakra generation speed was greatly reduced.
It was one thing he'd learned in his archive research. The TV show had never given a clear answer on why tailed beasts acted the way they did. In some parts it alluded to the fact that they would die if their host was destroyed, which is why demons would protect their Jinchuriki from death, and in other parts, it showed that tailed beasts couldn't die and were simply reborn free if their jailer died.
It was a huge contradiction, which made Kioshi dig deeper. Something had to be false or things hadn't been explained properly.
The Hokage gave him the scrolls to study. Defeating Jinchuriki was one of his responsibilities as an S-rank, and he also wished to help Naruto know how to work with Kurama.
The information he found was pretty simple. Tailed beasts were linked to a different time dimension which made them immortal and unable to be permanently eliminated. Tailed beast's chakra regeneration speed, however, significantly decreased without a host. This made them easy to re-capture if you had the time and skill to wear them down.
There were many types of seals that could be used to imprison a tailed beast. Some seals were more restrictive or painful than others, which explained why cooperation between the jailer and prisoner was possible. If demons were destined to be tracked down and captured eventually, then some beasts would resign to stay and defend where they were if the situation was tolerable. Being in a good prison was better than risking being placed in a bad one after all.
Could this be used to convince Shukaku to stop its rampage? The current seal on Gaara gave the raccoon many liberties…
Kioshi shook his head. No. The one-tail seemed the craziest out of all the tailed beasts. It likely wouldn't listen to reason. It also likely knew that no one knew a better seal to inflict, so threats of that nature wouldn't work.
Gaara was a better target to convince. From canon information, Kioshi was confident the boy had the ability to ignore and control the raccoon. He just needed the right influence.
"Yes, you are allowed to kill the boy." The Hokage affirmed, bringing him back to the conversation. "Just make sure that the one-tail does not fall into enemy hands."
"Very well," Kioshi sighed. "But I want to avoid that solution if possible." Murder should be the last resort. A new host could have just as difficult a time handling the demon, and Gaara was a victim of circumstance. Positive change and stability were possible with the right influence. "I think Naruto should join me and Kakashi on this mission."
The Hokage blinked at the sudden request. "Naruto? Why?"
Kioshi swallowed. This might be a mistake, but he didn't see a better option. Those boys were meant to meet each other. "Naruto is resilient. It will take a lot to kill him. As you are aware, he has formed a basic alliance with the nine-tails."
Kioshi had instructed Naruto a few years ago on the history and aspects of tailed beasts. Most weren't monsters and only wished to be respected and live life without being inflicted with pain and abuse. Naruto had become sympathetic and passionate at this, learning meditation and making progress with Kurama ever since.
"The chakra cloak he can form is very durable, and the fox enhances his Uzumaki body regeneration ability." Kioshi continued. "Kakashi and I will be there to help him if needed. This will give the boy battle experience, and he might be one of the few people who will be able to get through to Suna's Jinchuriki."
The Hokage became thoughtful. "It is a risk, but I see the reasoning. We will discuss this once Team 7 returns."
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A day later Kioshi and Team 7 headed out of Konoha. Naruto had been deemed suitable for the mission, and Sasuke and Sakura hadn't wanted to be left behind, so they had also joined.
Once they reached Suna, however, Sasuke and Sakura stayed and helped with medical aid and security while Kioshi, Kakashi, and Naruto continued further out into the desert. This was an S-Rank mission. Sakura and Sasuke were only chunin and would likely only get in the way in such a battle. Naruto's knowledge, resilient bloodline, and backing from the fox were the only reasons why he was allowed to purposely face such a threat.
Sasuke in particular wasn't happy about the arrangement. The boy feared losing them and had a strong desire to get stronger and fight. But the order was obeyed.
"Don't worry! We'll be back in no time!" Naruto called back confidently in an effort to get rid of the boy's scowl.
"Just don't be an idiot," was the only farewell reply.
The response was either not heard over the wind and distance, or for once Naruto wasn't insulted by the fact that Sasuke felt the need to remind him, because the yellowed-haired boy simply turned to sand siblings afterward. "That promise goes for you too! We will get your brother back! You can count on us!"
Temari and Kankuro, along with two Suna Jonin and the village elder, Chiyo, were accompanying them.
"I hope so," Temari swallowed. "Despite my father's assurance, I don't think I will be able to contain the one-tail if it comes down to that." It had been declared that she would become Suna's next Jinchuriki if Gaara couldn't be reasoned with.
"Your father almost seemed like he wants us to kill his son," Kioshi commented. "Do you know why?" Honestly, he was curious. With the way the Kazekage had praised the girl, it seemed like she should have been sealed with Shukaku from the beginning.
Temari sighed. "Gaara's chakra signature is more in line with the chakra of the one-tails. One of our elders is also able to detect prodigies based on certain characteristics. Even within the womb, we all knew that Gaara would be special. Father thought that he was the best candidate available. Unfortunately, the one tail has been able to influence my youngest brother's mind to the point that he has killed many innocents. Incidents have only escalated through the years, this being the worst out of all. Many people are angry."
"Why hasn't the Kazekage restrained your brother with seals if he is such a danger?" Kakashi asked, joining the conversation.
"Father has tried," Temari sighed. "The attempts to imprison or kill Gaara, however, have only resulted in more destruction and erratic behavior."
"Your father tried to kill him!" Naruto protested at the news, horrified. "But that's wrong! No one should be attacked by their family! Garra's actions only come from not understanding his tailed beast! I KNOW IT! Kio sensei, tell them! He shouldn't be hated! He just needs instruction!"
Kioshi sighed. "Not all tailed beasts are the same, Naruto. It might not be possible for some to do what you have." Naruto's status as Konoha's Jinchuriki had already been revealed to the group, so Kioshi could speak freely on the topic. The fight they planned to engage in would reveal everything anyway.
"Anything is possible," Naruto said firmly. "And even if it isn't, I still don't think it's right. Gaara didn't ask for the responsibility!"
"Tell that to family members of the people the boy has killed," Kioshi said.
"I agree with Naruto," Temari proclaimed. "Gaara is doing as best as I believe anyone could do in his situation. He's had to live with this since he was a baby, and our hatred towards him isn't helping. Kankuro and I have decided that we will take him away from the village once this is over if possible."
"I think father can be convinced," Kankuro agreed. "The village will riot if Gaara is left unrestrained among them now. Imprisoning seals also take a lot of energy to keep charged, especially for one with such power. Father still holds out hope that Gaara will learn control. If not, he would have been more dedicated in his assaults. Gaara is still his son and a prodigy. Handing the responsibility over to Termari will only risk another one of his children and might create an even greater disaster."
Kioshi nodded. He had similar worries.
"I agree." Temari said. "Please promise that you will do everything in your power to bring our brother back to us! We can't give up on him!"
"We will try," Kioshi said.
"Yes." Naruto agreed with a determined clenched fist. "We will get him back! Believe it! I will make him see that there are still people who have faith in him!"
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It took almost an entire day to reach the place where the rampant Jinchuriki resided. Finding the location was easy. A trail of deep footprints and dense chakra was left to follow.
Coming up over the ridge, they saw that the large brown form of the raccoon was sleeping.
"Where is Gaara?" Naruto whispered.
"He's likely within the beast," Kioshi answered. "The Jinchuriki is out in full form."
"This is not a good sign," Kakashi commented. "If the released demon is able to sleep while still under a seal, then it must be confident in its jailer's compliance. That, or the boy has no way to overcome it."
"Gaara isn't weak," Temari defended. "He has been able to regain control of the beast from this form before."
"And my seal isn't that flawed," Elder Chiyo added. "With enough will, the boy can subdue the creature."
"Then I guess we will just have to convince him to fight against the beast," Kioshi replied. "Are you ready Naruto?"
The yellow-haired boy nodded, fire in his eyes.
Kioshi smiled. It was inspiring to see such determination and strength. They'd all discussed the plan of engagement during the hours leading up to this point. No matter what form Gaara was in, Naruto would be the first to engage. Naruto would try his best to either convince Gaara to rise up and take back control, or for Shukaku to release control in turn. Kioshi and Kakashi would follow only if necessary.
As Naruto walked forward, a powerful orange chakra cloak flared around him. Naruto might not know the Rasengan at this point- Jiraiya hadn't returned to the village yet like in the original timeline-but everything else about Naruto was very formidable.
It filled Kioshi with pride. Who knew that short simple lessons could make such a difference? Naruto had learned some devastating body enhancement techniques to go along with his clones and taijutsu, and Naruto's progress with Kurama also made him devastating. With the fox's full cooperation, Naruto was probably one of the strongest ninjas in elemental nations.
With how fast the fox and Naruto had become friends, Kioshi almost feared the boy was being manipulated. It had nearly given him a heart attack when Naruto had proudly proclaimed that he'd taken the inner seal off the demon. Apparently, Kurama had taught him how to do it, and Naruto, being the sympathetic trusting idiot he was, had complied.
This would make it easier for Naruto to access the beast's chakra and allow his new friend to see things in the outside world, but it would also make it a lot easier for Kurama to go rampant.
Naruto hadn't even had the decency to memorize the seal before destroying it. The seal had been the unique work of the Fourth Hokage. With him gone, it couldn't be re-implemented.
But maybe that was a good thing. The Fourth Hokage's seal was the least painful out of Konoha's seals for the restrictions it provided. The one used on Kushina had made the fox feel like literal spikes were going through him. It was a great incentive not to make such a thing necessary.
As Naruto walked forward, the one-tails woke on feeling the strong chakra of one of its siblings. The rest of the group stayed out of sight and didn't use chakra so that the two could battle in peace.
They were at a far enough distance that Naruto's words couldn't be heard, but Shukakus's booming maniac responses were definitely perceived.
"Are you sure Naruto can do this alone?" Kakashi asked softly, tension building with each passing moment. The conversation beyond had now turned violent, Naruto flaring out more chakra and clashing with the threat.
"No," Kioshi said honestly. "But I have faith."
Kakashi nodded. Kioshi hadn't steered Naruto wrong yet. Some of the olive-skinned teenager's teachings were risky- encouraging the boy to work with the fox being one of them- but it had caused Naruto to grow more than he could have ever imagined.
The fighting between the two Jinchuriki continued, Shukaku getting angrier and angrier. It was at this moment that two foreign auras were detected.
Kioshi froze. He had been sending out spiritual scans in case threats or innocent bystanders came into range. These two auras definitely weren't civilians. They were using high levels of chakra and traveling towards the battleground at great speed.
"Kakashi, I think there is trouble approaching," Kioshi said with a hint of panic. He really hoped this wasn't what he thought it was. Two powerful ninjas that traveled alone… heading directly for two tailed beasts… Akatsuki. It was the most logical conclusion.
Out of all times! An hour sooner or later and this wouldn't be such an issue. Kioshi knew the organization could have become aware of about Suna's situation and had prepared for the criminals to act on the opportunity, but he'd hoped things wouldn't happen all at once.
"What direction?" Kakashi asked.
Kioshi pointed, and the silver-haired Jonin sent out a scan of his own. Kakashi wasn't a natural sensor, but he was a trained one.
"The signatures will be here within a minute," Kakashi said after examining the threat as well. "They either have not detected us or simply don't care."
"I'm betting on the last," Kioshi said grimly. "We need to intercept them."
"Is it another nation?" Temari asked, hearing their conversation. "Are they coming to steal our tailed beast?"
"Most likely," Kioshi said. "Whatever the case, we need to make sure they stay out of the battle. Naruto can't afford to get distracted or caught by surprise right now."
"I don't like this," Kakashi said. "We should pull Naruto out first. We promised to be back up."
"This is back up," Kioshi stated. "We can't retreat. The Hokage specifically said not to let the tailed beast fall into enemy hands. And the one tails and the enemy ninjas might all chase after us if we run. There will be a lot more variables and chaos in a conjoined battle."
Kakashi didn't look happy, but nodded. "Then let's handle this quickly." With that, he flashed away. Time was running out before the traveling signatures would reach their destination.
Kioshi told the others to stay put and followed. Traveling at S-Rank speed, both he and Kakashi were able to intercept the foreign signatures a few miles away from the Jinchurki battle.
The threat was as Kioshi feared. The ninjas that halted in front of them both wore dark cloaks with red clouds.
"Oh my, Kakuzu! Look who has decided to come play with us!" One cackled with a manic grin.
Great…Kioshi inwardly groaned. It was the immortals. Hidan stood there with his slicked-back silver hair, open chested cloak, and large scythe. Kakuzu also stood, green pupilless eyes peering out through a face mask and head covering. These two were both very dangerous.
"Who are you, and what do you want?" Kakashi asked, glaring at the figures. Hidan and Kakuzu had very little listed about them in the bingo books, including their pictures, so Kioshi wasn't surprised that Kakashi didn't recognize them.
Still, he glanced briefly at his mission partner. Was the silver-haired jonin really unaware of what the cloaks symbolized? The Hokage had discussed the Akatsuki with Kioshi when asked about Itachi's status. Itachi being a spy was obviously secret to others, but surely some information about the organization itself had been spread to other elites. They would be ill-prepared otherwise.
Maybe Kakashi was just fishing for more information? It was suspected the organization was more than a bunch of S-ranks banding together for protection and company. It was why Itachi was specifically ordered to investigate.
"You wouldn't happen to be Kakashi, the master of 1,000 jutsus would you?" Hidan asked, instead of answering the Jonin's question. "If so, then it looks like this will be a money-making mission after all Kakuzu! You owe the boss man an apology!"
"Indeed," the large man beside him intoned. "I want the other one though. He has an even greater reward. You are Kioshi Hirano, correct?"
Kioshi's eyes narrowed at the address.
That was answer enough for the man. "Kumo has a large price for your head. They don't even need you alive. One of the best bounties out there."
"How very fortunate of you," Kioshi deadpanned, working hard to keep his emotions in check. The gall of Kumo still angered him. Instead of saying anything more, however, he sent a message to Kakashi with Genjutsu.
"Kakashi, these men are dangerous. Both are S-rank and cannot be killed through normal means. The large masked one seems to want to fight me, so you take the one with the scythe. The man can reconnect his body parts, so try to chop them up and separate them away from each other as much as you can. Also, don't let him taste your blood. If he does, then do everything in your power to push him out of any ritual circle he draws."
Kakashi looked at him curiously, eyebrows slightly raised.
Kioshi grimaced. Questions would come from revealing such detailed information. But he'd figure out an explanation later. Kakashi's safety was more important at the moment.
"The boss might not like that we got sidetracked," Hidan intoned, reminding his partner of the assigned mission. "What if the Jinchuriki gets away?"
Kakuzu looked off into the distance where rumbling vibrations could be felt from the ongoing battle. "The thing seems to be occupied at the moment. Its current opponent is doing our job for us. We will attack once it is weakened and this interference has been dealt with."
"Why do you want a tailed beast?" Kakashi asked with tension.
"Why waste breath on someone who will soon be dead?" Hidan laughed back. "Jashin will soon feast on your blood."
"I'll leave you to the crazy man," Kioshi said to Kakashi mentally in response. "I have a feeling these two have more experience working together than us, so single battles will be to our advantage."
"Why do I feel like I'm getting the short stick?" Kakashi sighed. "This guy wants to sacrifice me."
Kioshi smirked. "You're the senior here, not me. Doesn't that mean you get the more difficult jobs?"
"Let's just get this over with," Kakashi growled, becoming more serious. "Naruto needs us." As if to reiterate his point, another clash of demon power could be felt.
"Right," Kioshi agreed. "Just don't be too hasty. These opponents shouldn't be underestimated." With that, he looked at Kakuzu. "If you think you have what it takes to defeat me, then you won't mind if we fight someplace private?"
"It makes no difference to me boy," Kakuzu replied. "You're fate will remain the same."
Kioshi smiled without humor and then fashed away. The waterfall missing-nin followed. They stopped about a mile away from Kakashi and Hidan while also keeping some distance from the Jinchuriki battle.
"If you surrender now, I will end your life quickly," Kakazu offered, now standing ready 20 yards away.
"Has anyone actually taken you up on that?" Kioshi asked, with raised brows. "Kind of weird for someone to just lay down and die."
"Yes," Kakuzu said. "Pain is something some people fear. I grant less to those who don't waste my time."
"I'll take my chances," Kioshi said. He was fairly confident he could beat the man, even if he was one of the most oldest and deadly ninjas.
"Very well," Kakuzu stated, then flashed forward without further preamble.
Kioshi knew that the Akatsuki bounty hunter was fast. In the show, Kakuku had been able to overcome even Kakashi's fast Sharingan reactions. But the speed still surprised him. It was only because Kioshi's dedicated training in the last years that he was able to dodge.
Kakuzu wasn't playing around. It attested to how the man saw him. The man didn't like theatrics, but he also didn't like expending more energy than necessary.
Did Kakuzu realize the danger Kioshi posed? Kioshi had the reputation of a healer and trader, but his abilities could also be used offensively.
One of Kioshi's main strengths was the ability to get through any physical defense. Kakuzu had extremely hard skin. This made it very hard for most people to hurt him. With Kioshi's Dojutsu, however, the task would be simple. Portals could absorb or crush almost any material.
Kakuzu tried to hit him with taijutsu, and Kioshi dodged again instead of blocking. The man's strength was too great to do otherwise. Power was practically radiating off the attacks.
Kioshi sent wisps out of his eyes. That caused Kakuzu to immediately flare out canceling energy. Most S-rank ninjas had some level of sensing, whether it was natural or trained. It seemed like Kakuzu wasn't taking any chances.
Thankfully, Kakuzu's energy didn't reach far, and Kioshi wasn't in a confined area like in his fight against Danzo. Kioshi put some distance between him and the man, and pushed out more wisps. He then twirled them into portals, sending them back to attack.
Kioshi's portals were an ingrained bloodline ability. They were very hard to destabilize once activated. After being cut by one, Kakazu resorted to retreating.
It was hard to catch the man. Directing such activated energy around was hard and slow, which was one downside of the technique. It was one of the reasons Kioshi often attacked directly or stealthily. No matter how much he trained, portals still refused to reach the movement speed equal to his wisps or flash steps.
Luckily, though he'd learned something that made the portals much more deadly. Kioshi had recently perfected an original technique. It involved a highly condensed beam of pure energy that rivaled the power of the Chidori and Rasengan.
The technique became even more formidable once a new ability of his Dojutsu was discovered. The Dojutsu ability involved condensing bubbles in his dimensional realm. This had been an idea of his for some time. Not only would condensed bubbles take up less space-allowing him to store more things in his dimensional realm- but condensing bubbles could also be used to speed up attacks.
Things usually exited his portals at the same speed at which they entered. If something was put inside a portal slowly, then it would appear stretched out and long in his dimensional realm. If something was put in quickly, then the object would look squished.
Through experimentation, however, Kioshi found that bubbles could be condensed to a certain percent after being created. This percent had increased with dedicated training.
Currently, he was able to fire back attacks at double their entering speed. This made a huge difference. He had many such attacks saved up in his dimensional realm, and doubling the speed made them almost undodgeable. He linked five such bubbles to different portals and activated them at the same time, hitting Kakuzu from all directions.
The Akatsuki member was greatly surprised by the speed and power, but was able to move out of the way fast enough that only two hearts were hit. Dammit. That ace could have been enough to end the battle. Now the Akatsuki member would be on guard.
This was proved by the waves of spiritual scans the man sent out, Kakuzu now kept a close eye on the movements of Kioshi's wisps.
"You will die slowly for that," the man growled. The man's last two extra hearts erupted from his back at the words, both wearing masks and formed out black woven tendrils. Kakuzu and the monsters charged at Kioshi at once, sending out strong elemental attacks while they closed the distance.
Kioshi activated more portals, using one as a shield and sending out more of his pure energy beams with others. The attacks were aimed solely at the mask creatures. Unfortunately, the tendrils were just as fast as Kakuzu and seemed to be anticipating the attack and dodged.
Kioshi resorted to flash stepping away to avoid getting surrounded. Kakuzu immediately followed, not letting him gain any distance.
Charging in close with great speed, Kakuzu sent out more waves of canceling energy. Kioshi couldn't create a portal to teleport or protect himself due to this, so instead, he blasted out chakra in all directions.
Kakuzu and the two mask creatures were sent flying backward across the desert at the blast. Kioshi used this time and space gained to create some more portals and have them hover around him for protection. He also refilled his core back to full power.
Kakuzu attacked again a few moments later. Kioshi used his portals to stop some more attacks, while he dodged others.
One tendril monster was then grazed by a large purple portal. Kioshi learned from this incident that Kakuzu's tendrils could regenerate almost instantly, even if entire sections were absorbed.
If Kakuzu was made out of the stuff then this meant the man could regenerate quickly as well. It wasn't just an ability to stitch things back together. This meant that absorbing parts would do little good unless it was something significant. The man's hearts were known to be such entities. Kioshi focused fully in those directions.
"You don't seem too surprised by my abilities," Kakuzu commented after a while. "Where did you learn of me?"
"I'm just good at adapting," Kioshi evaded.
"No, it's more than that," Kakuzu said. "Tell me your source."
"No," Kioshi said bluntly, not caring if he pissed the man off. It might create an opening.
"I will let you live." Kakuzu offered.
Kioshi's brows raised. "Really?" I thought you wanted my bounty? Or are you just worried you'll lose? I doubt you would offer such a thing otherwise."
Kakuzu's eyes narrowed. "I value my privacy more than money. That is all. I will stay my hand if it will lead me to those who are spreading such information."
"Then surely you know that letting me go won't exactly make things better." Kioshi said. "I know things as well. You aren't stupid. You might keep your word, but that courtesy probably doesn't extend to your partner or killing me at a later date. Besides, I have secrets I want to keep too."
Kioshi had used way more chakra than was natural. Kakuzu probably had picked up on that. While most already suspected knew he had an S-rank supply, the full extent wasn't known. If this fight continued much longer, it would become obvious that he was a chakra monster. It would be unfortunate if that information reached the bingo books, not to mention his energy beam attack. Surprise was a better ally than fear.
While not a gossip, selling the information wouldn't be out of Kakuzu's personality. The man would also likely come after him again once he was fully healed and had a more effective strategy was put in place. The man's death would also weaken the Akatsuki. It was best to take advantage of this opportunity. The man needed to die.
Drawing his sword, Kioshi started attacking Kakuzu with Kenjutsu. Kioshi had learned to condense an extreme amount of sharpening chakra around his blade. Its penetration power was almost as good as his chakra beams.
While he did so, Kioshi had portals come in from all directions to attack and defend.
Kakuzus's third heart was soon destroyed by a disk-sized portal that passed through Kioshi in its attack.
"Wha- How?.."
Apparently, that particular tactic had been unexpected. Most didn't know that dimensional-linked portals could pass through him without effect. When Kakuzu collapsed on the removal of his heart, Kioshi quickly made a large portal to absorb the paralyzed man before either of the other two masks could merge and revive him.
The tendril creatures did everything in their power to prevent this. One let a portal go straight through itself in order to merge with the man, while the other one attacked Kioshi furiously with a series of elemental attacks.
The one that went to Kakuzu was absorbed along with the Akatsuki member. Once this happened, the one attacking Kioshi froze, fading away in a dispersion of chakra. All that was left behind was a quickly beating heart.
The pulses of the lingering entity soon slowed and faded to nothing.
Kioshi let out a deep sigh. That fight had been a bit more troubling than expected. He'd used up almost two full S-rank chakra cores and many saved-up chakra techniques. I was probably equal to a whole week's worth of regeneration.
But at least he hadn't been hurt.
Kioshi extended his aura to both Kakashi and Naruto to check on their status. Naruto was currently out of beast form and was alive and stable. It seemed like his battle had been a success. Gaaras's signature was also weak, but alive.
Kakashi, on the other hand, seemed to be having more trouble. His chakra was erratic, showing signs of distress. Kioshi immediately headed in that direction. When he reached the peak of a risen dune near the battle, he peered down at the fight below.
Kakashi was injured badly. That much was obvious by the blood and the way he was hunched over with one limp arm. Still, the silver-head jonin was on the attack, pushing Hidan backward with great ferocity.
Hidan was laughing maniacally while the jonin did this, seeming to be enjoying the interaction.
Now would be the perfect time to use mental chakra. The Akatsuki member hadn't seemed to notice that Kioshi lay observing. Kioshi could hide a wisp from detection and absorb Hidan without warning.
It would end the battle quickly. The only reason Kioshi hadn't done this with Kakuzu was due to the lack of awareness the technique still inflicted. Now though, the enemy was distracted and at a distance.
Kioshi shook his head. Still, it wasn't worth it. It would expose the technique to Kakashi. Inochi and the Hokage were still the only people who knew about the particular ability. He wanted to keep it that way. He'd already made Kakashi suspicious of him. He didn't need more questions
Instead, Kioshi flashed forward to join the fight personally.
"Whoa! Hey! What are you doing here brat!" Hidan shouted in indignation when Kioshi suddenly appeared and clashed weapons with him. "You're supposed to be fighting Kakuzu!"
Hidan was darkened into his reaper skeleton mode. It was likely the reason why Kakashi had been pushing so hard. The man had tasted his blood. Any respite would allow the Akatsuki member to draw a ritual circle. The jonin had either taken his words to heart or had learned his lesson.
Kioshi kept up the brutal attacks, letting Kakashi slump back behind him. The lack of aid attested to just how worn out the jonin was.
"Where is Kakuzu!" Hidan demanded again in indignation as he blocked. "There is no way you defeated him!"
Kioshi answered by sending wisps into Hidan's chest. Hidan was either a terrible sensor, or confident in his immortality, cause no canceling energy followed. Kioshi made a large horizontal portal and swallowed Hidan entirely from the waist up.
"Wha-" was all the Jashin worshiper got to say before he was cut off. It was just like the cloaked Iwa ninja Kioshi killed as a child. The powerful ninja had been confident and had lacked understanding of his Dojutsu's abilities. The result was death.
Well, almost death… Hidan's lower body was still staggering around disorientingly. Apparently, Hidan didn't need a brain or something central to control his unconnected body parts.
Kioshi absorbed the legs as well, partly to get rid of the creepy display, and also just in case the things could do something harmful. After that, he turned to Kakashi.
"You okay?"
The jonin nodded. "We need to get back to Naruto," he croaked, shakily trying to get to his feet.
"You're not going to be able to do much in that state," Kioshi said bluntly. "Stay still and I'll heal you. Don't worry. I've already checked on him."
"And?"
"The battle against the one-tail is over," Kioshi answered. "I believe Naruto came out on top."
Kakashi sighed and nodded, collapsing back down to the ground in relief. As Kioshi knelt down and began stopping the dangerous blood flow coming from the man.
"How did you know?" Kakashi then asked in the silence.
"How did I know what?" Kioshi reiterated, even though he already knew where this was headed.
"How did you know what that man was going to do?" Kakashi said. "He did exactly as you predicted. You were right about his abilities. Have you met him before?"
Kioshi continued to focus on healing the large wound in front of him while trying to figure out the best way to answer.
"I don't think you have," Kakashi stated. "He showed no recognition."
"The man is crazy," Kioshi shrugged. "Are you sure he's the best person to get information from?"
"It's not only that," Kakashi said. "You have always seemed to be able to read people-Danzo being the first. You hated him from the start. And then there was Mizuki, the academy instructor. How did you know he was a traitor? And what about the nine-tailed fox? You somehow seemed to know that it could be reasoned with, despite evidence against it. What makes you so confident? It's like you know people…somehow."
Kioshi grimaced again. Should he say he could read people's minds…? The Hokage and Inochi already knew this, and it could explain some things in part. But wouldn't explain knowledge before his capture. That's when the technique was learned.
It also wouldn't explain the knowledge of Hidan's abilities. With what the mental ability required, it would have been stupid to read the Akatsuki's mind while standing right in front of him. An attack could have come at every moment. Also, people didn't go around thinking about every aspect of their abilities. Gaining that much from such a brief encounter was unlikely. There were too many holes in the explanation. Perhaps the truth would be better.
"If I tell you, you have to promise you'll keep it to yourself," Kioshi said, coming to the decision. "I have enough attention on me."
"Okay…" Kakashi said cautiously, but curious enough to agree.
"I sometimes see images of things," Kioshi admitted, keeping it simple. "It's hard to explain, but the images sometimes show me things about others, even people I haven't met. It can be of the past, present, or future. Not all the images are correct, so I don't fully rely on them, but they often show me reflections or predictions of reality."
"Is this another ability of your Dojutsu?" Kakashi asked, only taking a moment to process the information.
"I don't think so," Kioshi said. "But it's another thing I believe others would hunt me down for, either to use me for their own ends or eliminate the threat I pose. Information is powerful."
"Indeed," Kakashi intoned.
By this time Kioshi had finished healing the man's wound. No large chunks of flesh were missing, so it was a simple stitching job.
"No one else knows of this," Kioshi continued, hoping to convey the importance of what was just explained.
Kakashi nodded. "I understand. I will keep it secret."
"Thanks…" Kioshi sighed, hoping he'd made the right decision. "Now give me your arm, and I'll help you back to the others."