A month later, deep within the lighting nation inside the Kage's office, the Raikage sat listening to a report from one of his spy handlers. A' had already been having a bad day, and the current news was only making it worse.
"I believe Iwa is attempting to form an alliance with Konoha," the informant said solemnly. "As you are already aware, the Tsuchikage has canceled his bounties against all of the fire nation's retired and stationed ninjas. This new recent action is just further proof that the nation is submitting."
"And you are certain of this information?" the dark-skinned Kage asked.
"My spy specifically heard it from two separate Iwa ninjas high up in the ranks," the agent affirmed. "Iwa is not trying hard to keep it secret. They have started to spread the news to other nations as an incentive for everyone to bring their young talents to compete. Hirano's healing abilities are known worldwide. I believe even the smaller nations are attending due to the added safety and to build a connection."
"Despicable," the Raikage growled. "Nothing but a bunch of beggars. The boy will soon have everyone wrapped around his finger! The Tsuchikage at the very least should know better! It should be known by now that the tree huggers only pretended to be virtuous! Deep down they are all rotten! Konoha harmed Iwa the most in the last war, and we were the ones to help them pick up the pieces! To so openly join the enemy like this is nothing short of a betrayal!"
The spy stayed silent at this. That was understandable. His words were nothing new. Hirano's and Konoha's growing power was something he often grumbled about.
"Is there anything else to report?"
"No, my Lord."
"Then I will speak to the council about this."
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Days later, the most powerful and influential people in Kumo gathered to discuss the lightning nation's future strategy and actions.
"I do not recommend sabotage," one elder said, being one of the more cautious and passive advisors. "It's too risky. The treaty is very clear that if unsanctioned violence is attempted during the exams, we could be barred permanently from all nations."
"That has never stopped us before," a more brash council member scoffed. "Our current trade partners won't have a choice but to stick with us through such conduct. It would be economically suicidal to do otherwise. And that is only if we are caught. The whole point of a sabotage mission would be to get everyone to believe someone or something else was at fault! We need to strike now before an alliance is made!"
"We don't even know if that is truly Iwa's intention," another elder protested. "They could be leading Hirano into a trap."
"That is unlikely," the brash one replied back. "Blame would automatically fall on them as the host. The other nations would rebel. Iwa would need a great deal of deception and defense to come out on top. We are one of the last nations to receive our official invitation. It is proof that Iwa is pushing us away! I wouldn't be surprised if they soon banned us fully!"
"If we cause trouble during their exams, then they definitely will." The first one replied. "Attacking might be exactly what Hirano wants. The S-Rank already has Suna on his side. Iwa might just need an excuse to join as well. It is too risky. We should wait to attack in a different setting."
Many nodded in reluctant agreement.
There was frustrated silence for a moment before someone else commented. "There is a way we can still win in this situation without breaking any major laws."
"How?" The Raikage growled, still angry, but slightly intrigued. This particular man was sly and usually had interesting solutions.
"How is project D coming along? The man asked in turn.
The Raikage glared. "You already know the answer to that."
"Yes. I heard the oldest subject is having some trouble," the man chuckled. "A huge decrease in value if things continue in such a backward direction."
"His instructor is working on the problem." A' replied. "I do not see how this is relevant."
"Isn't it obvious?" The advisor said. "The boy has the ability to see the spiritual chakra, at least that of his Dojutsu. If my sources are correct, he also has the ability to see his siblings' bloodline chakra. Wouldn't this apply in regard to Hirano as well?"
"I still don't see how this helps…" an elder replied for the Raikage, voicing the confusion for a lot of them.
The man relaying the idea sighed as if disappointed in the surrounding intelligence. "The next chunin exams might be an opportunity for us to finally unlock the secret of the bloodline! If the advertisements are what they say, then Hirano will be the main healer on duty. He will be required to heal all those who are injured. It is common knowledge that he uses his portals to hold medical supplies and to put bodies in frozen status. All we need to do is have the subject attend the final exam, and then make sure people get seriously injured. It will then be shown in real-time the correct way to proceed and teach the others!"
Many people became thoughtful at this.
"This might be the most profitable idea," one of the older elders finally agreed. "If we can truly harness Hirano's full abilities, then we will be able to create a truly effective force. We won't need to grovel to others."
"True power comes from within," another nodded in agreement. "Let the other nations do what they will for now. We'll silently build up strength until they have no other choice but to bow to us."
"Very well," the Raikage said, agreeing with the decision. "We will proceed with this action if there are no other better ideas…"
No one said anything.
"Then this meeting is adjourned."
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Three weeks before the Iwa chunin exams, Hibiki, a brown-haired jonin from Kumo, walked away from the lighting nation's military capitol with apprehension. This was crazy! The whole council was crazy! Who in their right mind was convinced this was a good idea?!
Walking beside him was a blond six-year-old boy with dark sunglasses over plastered securely over his eyes. His young student didn't seem to realize the danger the village was sending them towards, simply excited and looking around at all the new surroundings in wonderment.
They were going to go see the boy's father. HIS FATHER! Ollie had recently been struggling to improve or get his Dojutsu to work properly, but this was taking things too far!
What if they were discovered? Currently, they were both dressed as unassuming civilians, traveling with a rich trading caravan. There were many guards to help protect them along the way, but once Iwa was reached, they would be on their own.
It would draw too much attention otherwise.
What if their intentions or identities were recognized? Kioshi Hirano was known to be an elite sensor. One scan of their emotions could lead to disaster! If the truth became known, treaty or no, it would be a miracle if they made it out alive.
At the very least, it put a face to Ollie. Kumo hadn't confirmed any of the children's existence to the other nations yet. Mystery was the best defense. It kept enemies unsure of how to act. Ollie and the other subjects of project D had been kept purposely out of the public eye. Until now…This was the first time any of them had been outside of a secluded blocked-off area.
The only comfort was that Ollie had inherited most of his mother's features, which would hopefully prevent proper conclusions from being made. If all went well, this would just be a fun outing to the foreign exam which would allow them to acquire vital information.
"Hibiki Sensei, can I take these off now? I can't see very good!" the frustrated voice of his charge suddenly wined, making the man wince at the volume.
"Ollie!" The jonin hissed in reprimand. "Remember what I told you! While we are on this journey you need to whisper when you ask me questions!" They were seriously going to die. This was just more proof of the boy's lack of awareness and self-discipline.
"Oh. Sorry… I forgot" the boy said, embarrassed, but still taken aback by the harsh tone.
"I'm not mad." Hibiki sighed at the sad demeanor. "It's just dangerous if someone hears you. Don't talk unless you absolutely have to."
It was hard to balance safety with allowing the boy to be a child. Prodigies were born not made, at least to a certain extent, and unfortunately, the boy was not one of them. Demanding too much too soon would only stunt progression.
"You need to keep the sunglasses on. We are going to stop soon and then we will start a fire to see better by. Use this time to hone your sight and practice your other senses."
"Oh. Okay, Hibiki Sensei!" Ollie agreed, brightening a bit.
Thankfully there were no more complaints afterward. Hiding the boy's eyes was just another thing in their list of problems…Wearing sunglasses and dark goggles during the day was common, but at night? Even the most distracted or uninterested soul would take notice. They'd need to make their own separate camp to avoid questions from the caravan.
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Three long weeks later, they finally made it to Iwa. Ollie was not in the least tired out, running around and examining each market stall excitedly.
Hibiki let him do it. This excited child tourist behavior benefited their cover. He only hoped Ollie would be able to focus and accomplish his task when the time came.
It was three days until the finals. All they needed to do was not be discovered until then and a bit afterward. Just an uncle and nephew going to see the matches…They could do this…No big deal.
Thankfully, his charge calmed down after exploring and going over the plan for the first two days. When it was finally time take a seat in the stadium, the boy was actually more nervous than distracted.
"Are you okay?" Hibiki asked.
"Yeah," the boy mumbled.
Hibiki could tell by the tight ringing of hands and the subtle searching glances that the response wasn't entirely true. Now that they were so close to meeting the S-rank, the boy must have been finally hit with a dose of reality. Ollie had known his father was a powerful and dangerous enemy for years, and now he was going to be in the same room as him. Anyone would be nervous.
The Raikage watchful gaze also likely attributed to the fear. The threat of punishment for failure was sent clearly by their leader sitting up in the Kage box.
"Just remember what I told you," Hibiki said. "Stay calm and focused. Watch carefully and remember."
"But what if he recognizes me?" the boy asked with worry but also with a bit of hope.
Hibiki sighed at the last emotion. Even with all the warnings, stories, and facts, the boy still had paternal longing ingrained in him. "He's not going to recognize you. You've never met. If he glances at you don't think much of it. He'll likely be looking at a lot of people."
The boy nodded and looked forward again, only becoming slightly interested when the announcer walked out to the middle of the floor.
"Ninjas and civilians! Boys and girls! Visitors and natives of all ages! Welcome to this season's chunin exams! We have a total of nine matches lined up for you today! And not from the lack of elimination! These are the best of the best folks! Please give a round of applause to Iwa, Konoha, Kumo, Suna, and Kusa for making it this far!"
The crowd happily compiled and whistled and clapped their congratulations.
Once the noise died down, the man continued. "As is customary, these fights will end by surrender, unconsciousness, or death. My whistle will determine when a fight starts and ends. Any rules that are ignored will be met with proper punishment. Kages! Do I have your permission to begin?"
The five leaders all gave nods of approval.
"Very well! The first match will be…."
Hibiki tuned out the rest of the announcer's words, keeping close watch on Ollie and if there was any sign of Hirano. There had been gossip in the village that the S-rank had arrived and had already worked miracles. Apparently, an Iwa applicant had been saved from a fatal wound during the first trial, making some natives argue over Konoha's goodwill and if tension was truly lessening between the two nations.
This was bad if true. Konoha gaining any more strength or influence would only put Kumo more at risk. The fire nation was their most hostile enemy.
It was during the fourth match that their first serious injury was finally inflicted. Hirano's Dojutsu spiritual chakra couldn't be seen through technology, so previous video footage of the healing was useless. Ollie would need to see portals in person to learn it's secrets.
Killing or permanently injuring opponents in exams was within Kumo's normal conduct. It was a way to eliminate future threats. The Raikage, however, seemed to have instructed all Kumo applicants to be extra brutal this day because the deadly attack was against another Kumo member.
The crowd gasped as the Kumo girl cut off both of her teammate's legs with a powerful kenjutsu strike. It was an unfortunate random matchup, but Kumo's pride and sentiment wasn't stopping them from forcing one of their comrades to be at Hirano's mercy for the greater good. The boy flew back from the force and rolled to a stop with half his remaining body. Only then was there a sign of surrender from the sensei, and the whistle was blown.
In response, a powerful figure dressed in the white uniform of the official medical staff quickly flashed onto the field. This caused many in the crowd to mumble or become silent. Usually, debilitating injuries would be carried out on a stretcher by a group of healers. With Hirano here, however, he had come out from the medical bay alone, quickly absorbing the genin and the two detached legs with his Dojutsu before the patient bleed out.
I was quite the site.
Ollie squeezed Hibiki's had tightly while standing up to get a better view. There was a mixture of awe and apprehension in his expression.
"Is that him?"
"Yes," Hibiki whispered back. The stadium had become too quiet to communicate any louder without being overheard by surrounding occupants.
"He's so fast."
"Yes, he is," Hibiki said, hoping Ollie was talking about Hirano's flash steps and not actual portal creation. That might cause problems if certain sequences couldn't be seen. It was too dangerous to ask for details now though.
"The winner is Shiora Ruem!" Exclaimed the announcer replied happily after the S-rank had flashed back out of view.
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Hirano appeared once more after the seventh match. This time Ollie was more prepared and was already peaking above the crowd when the rescue happened.
After the last match of the day was over, however, Ollie was silent and morose when they walked back to their campsite. He'd seen his father in action, but all the actual healing had been done within the medical bay. This meant no red portals were seen or demonstrated.
This was bad. Red portals were the main puzzle the boy needed to solve. With guidance, Ollie had been able to figure out how to create both purple and red portals and could absorb things, but retrieving those materials had always been a mystery. This eventually made him unable to make purple portals due to some kind of "absorption limit."
The Raikage would be deeply disappointed if he didn't figure out how to empty his Dojutsu soon…
"We'll talk about it back at camp," Hibiki said, seeing the boy's worry, and understanding the problem. There was a major flaw in their current plan. They'd need to create a situation where they would be able to see the specific red technique.
Ollie nodded, swallowing. The Raikage was his main worry. His father had actually felt normal during the event, kind even. There hadn't been a glare or a flash of killing intent sent toward anyone, not even him…
But that didn't make sense... Everyone bad glared. Had Kumo lied to him about his father? The question could get him in trouble if spoken out loud…But someone who healed and saved people couldn't be a complete monster, right?
Hibiki was less optimistic as he walked beside the boy. Sure, Hirano ignoring Kumo's fan section and the Raikage had been a surprise, but hatred could be skillfully hidden. There was no way that certain events had been forgotten.
The calm, benevolent exterior gave cause to worry even more. Ninjas who kept their intentions secret were usually more dangerous than the straightforward ones. It was one of the reasons Hibiki preferred speaking to the Raikage over certain members in Kumo's council. At least with the Kage, expectations, and consequences could be predicted and were clearly laid out.
What was Hirano planning? How long would his act go on before the S-rank's true intentions were revealed? Was this new friendship with Iwa a way to bring Kumo down? Ollie would need to get strong both mentally and physically if he was ever to face such a threat someday…
"So, did you learn anything?" Hibiki asked his young student after starting a warm fire back near their tent. Since they were presenting themselves as the average exam visitor, they resided in a temporary dwelling far outside the village walls. It was nice for privacy and confidential conversations.
"No. It was the same twirling motion that I used to do," came the soft reply. "There was nothing different."
Hibiki nodded. "Well, that makes sense. You've never had problems with purple portals until recently. We just need to find a way to let you see how to properly make a red one. The secret could be really simple once revealed. A messenger will be here in a few hours. We will tell the Raikage he needs to find a way for you to see such a demonstration if he expects anything from you. He'll understand."
Ollie subconsciously rubbed his neck contradicting this notion, not looking convinced. The Raikage's hard temperament was one thing the boy sadly could almost always predict. They both knew blame would be placed on him somehow, if only for the man to be able to vent his frustrations.
"Or, you could just ask me personally to show you," a casual voice suddenly suggested from within the deep forest shadows.
Hibiki flew to his feet at the interruption, centering in on the voice direction. What in hell! He hadn't heard or sensed a thing! Whoever the intruder was, they were extremely skilled at approaching unnoticed. A place surrounded by many dry sticks and leaves had been chosen for a reason.
This was bad… The current conversation was very dangerous for someone to overhear!
Registering the words which were spoken, however, was what really made the man's blood turn cold. No. It couldn't be. Please… Hibiki hoped to all the gods the spy wasn't who he thought it was.
Glowing purple and red-ringed eyes flared to life within the darkness, dashing all of the jonin's hopes.
"I'm not interrupting anything am I?" Kioshi Hirano asked, stepping out into the light.
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Three days earlier…
Kioshi was annoyed. Actually, he was more than annoyed. Negotiations had been going well between Iwa and Konoha over the past week, but the Raikage just had to come in and ruin it. "They can't be serious. Does the council honestly think that man would say anything positive in my regard? He'd call a flower dangerous if it benefited him."
"Yes, Iwa is very much aware of the history and strife between you two," Kakashi stated dryly. "Don't worry. Kumo would have to offer something big to stop the new alliance. The Tsuchikage likely just wants you two in the same room together for a bit of drama to glean information from."
"It's a bad move if you ask me." Kioshi frowned. "The Raikage has a temper, and I'm not willing to be poked and prodded for no reason."
"You're going to be in the same room anyways during the finals." Kakashi reminded. "The only difference here is that you'll have to ignore a few words. I'll do most of the talking. This is an opportunity for us."
"Really? How?" Kioshi asked, skeptical.
"Do I honestly need to answer that?" Kakashi sighed. "Do what you did with the Tsuchikage! Read the bastard's mind! The Raikage will likely give us loads of information, more specifically, information about your children if the right questions are asked."
Guilt and embarrassment rose up in Kioshi at the comment. Of course this tactic should have occurred to him. Agitation and fear were clouding his judgment. The Raikage's voice and face were still associated directly with his captivity, and he didn't want to face the reminders, despite the treaty or any other defense against attack. The Raikage would have to have something major planned, or be stupid to try anything. The benefits outweighed the risk and unpleasant predictions.
"You're right," Kioshi swallowed. "Sorry. I've just been under a lot of pressure lately."
"I understand," Kakashi said, regarding his ill-hidden feelings with a bit more compassion. "I'm not going to force you. We can refuse the invitation if necessary."
"No," Kioshi said. "Let's do it."
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That night was the last day of the second trial. The next morning all of the applicants had either failed or made it through the second task.
Only one person died, which was a huge achievement in Kioshi's book, seeing how much violence and stupidity that had been performed. Having an S-rank healer on call apparently made people less cautious and merciful.
Thankfully, most patients were easy to fix due to lost appendages being fresh, intact, and nearby. Little anatomy creation was needed, which allowed Kioshi to keep his chakra reserves secret without feeling guilty for not doing his best to save the applicants.
When Kioshi was relieved from his healing shift, he headed back to Kakashi's high-class suite. The temporary Kage dwelling was where they'd had all their confidential conversations, high-quality security, and privacy seals ingrained and in place.
"Ready to go?" Kioshi asked on entering, speaking to his silver-haired leader who was currently reading another Icha Icha book on the bed.
"No, are you?"
Kioshi rolled his eyes and the casual negative answer. "This was your idea, not mine. Now get up and let's get this over with."
"As you wish Kioshi-san," Kakashi eye smiled, getting up and brushing past him. "Just follow my lead."
Kioshi did so with slight trepidation, wondering if the weird happy emotion was supposed to be a threat or a comfort. You never knew when Kakashi was separated from his literature.
When they reached the Tsuchikage's office, Kakashi paused and turned to him. "Now remember, don't kill the man unless he attacks. It will cause us great trouble if you do. Understand?"
"Yes," Kioshi sighed, ignoring the hallway guards' brief glances of concern at the words.
Kakashi entered the room, and Kioshi followed afterward.
The Raikage was already standing in front of Iwa's leader inside. Kioshi didn't meet the glare. He could have, but it would be easier to examine the Kumo man's mind under the guise of being purposely ignorant or indifferent. His eyes went a bit unfocused when meditating.
"Fifth Hokage… Ninja Hirano," the Tsuchikage greeted neutrally.
Protocol didn't call for Kakashi and Kioshi to bow, seeing as they were both S-ranks and not under the native Kage's command. Still, they both dipped their head in respect to indicate their soon-to-be alliance.
The Raikage scoffed in response to the insinuation. "How can you even consider joining such weakness?" He asked, looking at the Tsuchikage, affronted. "The boy is a coward! Look! He doesn't even have the courage to look at me!"
"First he's dangerous, then he's weak?" Kakashi responded in a similar condescending tone. "Please make up your mind, A'-san, or someone might think you are crazy."
"He's a traitor!" Raikage shouted, angrily pushing past the comment. "Hirano has the gall to ask for the Tsuchikage submission when Iwa should be the one ruling him as a subject! He's native to this land. He belongs to it! The Tsuchikage shouldn't need to conform to his demands!"
Same old talking points… It was becoming tiresome…
"So does that mean his children also belong to Iwa then?" Kakashi challenged. "As the dominant bloodline parent, by your own laws, this would be the case, even if they were born elsewhere…"
At this point, Kioshi started reading the dark man's thoughts. Kakashi would defend him against both verbal and physical attacks while he did so. This was their agreement beforehand.
"Konoha ninjas are nothing but manipulative liars!" the Raikage replied to the statement, deflecting the point. " If such children exist, it is only because Kumo decided to do what Iwa could not. The Tsuchikage has no one else to blame but himself."
"So the rumors are true then?" The Iwa Kage asked, leaning forward, staying remarkably calm despite the insult.
"That information is classified." The Raikage huffed, eyes narrowing. "And your current actions have caused you to lose my trust."
"Idiots. The lot of them…" Kioshi then heard mentally. "One is within the village at this very moment. That boy better be successful or else… Images of a blond decapitated head. "No better to save him for breeding…I'll just take the eyes." Images of a man bucking in restraints, eyes bleeding profusely. "I just need to find a person who can handle them…"
Kioshi's mind was in a whirl from what he just took in. Did he just interpret that right? One of his children was here?... His child was here! And the Raikage was going to blind him unless he was successful?...
Successful in what? Was the boy one of the chunin applicants? No... That didn't make sense. There was no one of that young competing. Unless a powerful body transformation jutsu was a play…
Images of red and purple portals then flashed into the Raikage's mind. What did portals have to do with this?
After a moment of thought, Kioshi paled. Was his child supposed to attack somebody? Hurt somebody? Blame a crime on him? It would be quite damaging if that were the case. Such a familiar and unique ability would be easily attributed to him.
"Ask if Kumo has any hidden prodigies," Kioshi sent mentally to Kakashi. This was done with pure mental chakra to prevent others from detecting the private communication.
"Very well." Kakashi sent back with simple thought, then merged seamlessly back into the conversation. "Ninjas don't trust anyone. Not fully. Isn't that our creed? We only have those we need and those we don't. And right now, Konoha has more to offer, unless of course, Kumo has some spectacular hidden prodigies that they aren't telling us about?..."
Smooth. Now if only this will get the Raikage to think more on the subject…
"No, it seems like you and other Konoha brats are the only ones lucky in that regard." The Raikage thought jealously. "Most actually have to work for their strength… The Raikage then spoke confidently. "Kumo is prepared for any challenge." An image of the same blond boy face-planting in some grass contradicted the statement. "Pathetic… Can't even do the most basic techniques…"
So his son wasn't a prodigy? Okay…At least this meant that the threat could be more easily contained.
"...Father better show him how it's done..."
What? Was A' talking about him?
Vague images of him creating portals in front of a live audience finally made everything click into place. His son wasn't here to sabotage anything! He was here to learn and observe! Dangerous for the future perhaps, but something that currently wouldn't cause a major effect.
"I'm growing tired of this conversation," Kioshi said to the Tsuchikage in conclusion, believing he had everything that they needed at this point. "Either accept our offer or don't. But I won't heal your grandson or the others until you make a public announcement of our union."
Sickness and disability in Iwa's elite was the main thing that had allowed them to get this far. It was the reason the Tsuchikage and Iwa's council had reached out and wanted cooperation. Kioshi agreed he would slowly help the nation heal their loved ones and talented ninjas if they agreed publicly to support Konoha and to cut all trade ties with Kumo. The lightning nation would be shunned, weakened, and attacked until proper reparations for their actions were given.
The alliance also stated that the two nations would help each other fight the Akatsuki.
Hopefully, the Tsuchikage would make the right decision…
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It wasn't long until both he and Kakashi were back in the Konoha Kage's suite. Kioshi sighed as he collapsed tiredly on one of the expensive couches. "Conversations like that are what you get when leaders are powerful, but have no brain. Can people ever look past themselves?"
"It is believed that power makes many brains malfunction," Kakashi nodded in response, also irritated. "Maybe that's why everyone keeps calling for my retirement…"
"No one is calling for your retirement." Kioshi groaned. "They call you lazy and perverted. There is a difference. You are one of the least arrogant people I know. You did great in there."
"Hum," Kakashi huffed, not denying the statement. "Well, I hope you got something useful from the conversation."
"I did…" Kioshi replied, sitting up straiter and becoming more serious. He then proceeded to tell the man everything.
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The next day was the finals. Kioshi once again dressed in his white chunin exam healer uniform. This was basically his pass into all the main exam facilities.
When he entered the medical bay, all the healers inside paused in conversation, some still nervous around him. The silence and avoidance were fine. Kioshi had other things to focus on.
It was time to find his son. He'd barely been able to sleep last night thinking about this moment. If the Raikage's thoughts were properly interpreted, then his child was likely sitting in the stadium this very minute.
There was no way he was going to simply ignore the situation. This could be his chance to finally claim what was stolen. That, or at the very least gain more information…
He wouldn't be able to find the boy with his eyes. The medical bay was closed off from most of the stadium, and the Raikage's thoughts had been blurry when it came to his son's facial features.
Sensing emotions with spiritual chakra also wouldn't work. First of all, emotions could be attributed to many different things, so it wasn't exactly effective. And second, there were many sensors in the audience. They would be deeply offended and alarmed if they were scanned without permission. It was considered very impolite and intrusive.
Pure mental chakra was the best way to go. The passive and wary healers in the room wouldn't try anything while he was vulnerable- most likely… so the reward was worth it.
It took almost until the start of the first match for Kioshi to finally find what he was looking for. Many people in the crowd had nervous thoughts in regard to the event, but only a few had thoughts centered on a certain task.
"Please let this work…Will Hirano even show himself?... I can't believe the Raikage actually glared at him like that…just making things worse…" Kioshi heard after centering in on one of the minds of one of the audience members.
An image of a blond-haired boy was then seen, Kioshi purposely centering his scan in on the man's visual cortex to get a clearer image. It was a trick Kioshi had learned long ago, but had not found much use for until now. Instead of examining memories, it made you see directly through a person's eyes, seeing what they saw at the moment.
The blond-haired boy beside the man looked anxious as the man looked at him. Kioshi moved his chakra over to the form, believing this to be his son.
The young mind, surprisingly, was showing happy images of fathers and sons together. That was encouraging…None were of him personally, but this meant the boy yearned for such a relationship. It was better than indifference or murderous thoughts.
Multiple images of a vague angry face then flashed into view. The boy was then being choked, hit, and stabbed by the same imaginary figures. Kioshi's hand clenched upon realizing the boy was worried that he'd be attacked and killed if he was ever discovered.
What lies had Kumo told about him?
Some of the beatings and punishments were uncomfortably detailed, causing a terrible suspicion to form. The angry faces shifted into a clear ones the Raikage, confirming Kioshi's thoughts.
How dare that man…It was obvious that the boy knew what it was like beaten and air deprived from experience. There was no excuse for such abuse! A new level of protectiveness and urgency rose up at the further evidence of Kumo's evil actions. You'd think a nation would want to endear such assets! Clearly not.
It seemed like it took an eternity for all the matches to end. Kioshi needed to stop investigating in order to be able to focus and respond and attend immediately to the fatal injuries of applicants, so not much else was gained during this time.
He followed his son right after the event was over.
This was quite difficult to do without being seen or followed. Two Iwa Anbu members were personally assigned to him. Kioshi had to pull a cloak, hat, and glasses from his dimensional realm to hide his hair, ninja headband, Dojustu, and healer uniform from the crowd, and then slip past the elites unnoticed.
He also needed to disperse his spiritual chakra to get past all the sensors within the village. This made it impossible to track auras, making it easier to lose his target.
Upon reaching Iwa's wall, even more stealth was needed to get past the checkpoints, but Kioshi was competent in the skill, so no one stopped him.
Hopefully, his disappearance wouldn't cause too much panic among the elites until he returned. Kakashi said there was no good way to cover for him. Taking action would cause suspicion and problems no matter what was done.
It was decided that they would go with the unapologetic truthful approach. If questions or accusations arose, Kioshi would state that his son was a minor, and as his father, he had rights over his safety and movements. Kumo hadn't filed an official protective order. Kumo hadn't even confirmed affiliation. Forceful parental action wasn't against chunin exam law.
Ditching the guards also wasn't a crime. The contract only stated that Iwa had the right to monitor visitors in non-private areas, not that they had to be monitored or couldn't try to avoid detection. Iwa was either too prideful to insinuate that such a thing was possible, or it was an oversight on their part.
Kioshi wanted to affirm and act on certain facts, and he wanted to do it alone. Iwa would just need to accept this.
His son and apparent caretaker stopped in a distant secluded camp. Perfect…This made it less likely someone else would interfere. He slowly made his way over in the dimming light, stepping carefully and silently to get closer.
"So, did you learn anything?" He heard his son being asked around the brightening campfire.
"No. It was the same twirling motion that I used to do," came the soft reply. "There was nothing different."
"Well, that makes sense," his caretaker replied. "You've never had problems with purple portals until recently. We just need to find a way to let you see how to properly make a red one. The secret could be really simple once revealed. A messenger will be here in a few hours. We will tell the Raikage he needs to find a way for you to see such a demonstration if he expects anything from you. He'll understand."
So, his son already knew how to create portals to some extent…Interesting.
His son nodded, still sullen, his fear and lack of faith towards the Raikage evident. Kioshi decided now was a good time to speak up. The man said a messenger was coming soon, so it was best not to delay.
"Or, you could just ask me personally to show," he suggested from only ten feet away.
Kioshi admitted that seeing the caretaker jump at the interruption was humorous. The man seemed like a competent ninja, but it was obvious he wasn't S-Rank. The speed and fear alone proved this.
Kioshi had already taken off his city disguise, so he simply activated his eyes to show dominance, not wanting this to turn into a fight. It should be easy to know who he was.
By the Kumo ninja's paling face, recognition had set in.
"I'm not interrupting anything am I?" Kioshi asked, walking forward.
The caretaker looked like he was about to faint, panicked into silence, backing away slightly.
Kioshi turned calmly to his son. "I heard you were having trouble making red portals. Is that correct?"
The boy blinked or stared. Kioshi didn't know which. The boy's eyes were still hidden. But he was obviously startled as well.
"The boy is just a fan of yours!" the caretaker explained desperately, not letting the boy answer. "He likes to pretend he is like you, and sometimes I go along with his imagination! It's just a game!"
"Really?" Kioshi deadpanned skeptically, not believing the explanation in the slightest. "You sounded pretty serious to me. Something about talking to the Raikage…Are you guys from Kumo?"
Kioshi was pretty sure of the answer, but he liked to see the man squirm. He also didn't see any evidence laying around to suggest this. Whatever he said going forward, he wasn't going to reveal his mind-reading ability.
"Y-yes," the ninja admitted, surprisingly not denying the affiliation. "We are civilians here to watch the exams and Iwa promised us safety! We are under their protection!" He finished, going for the legal approach now.
"Not if you attack me first," Kioshi glared, moving forward once again with purpose. The words and threat in them caused enough hesitation that the caretaker didn't do anything as Kioshi brushed passed and knelt down on one knee in front of his son.
Kioshi then reached forward and took the boy's sunglasses off. What he saw left no doubt about their relationship. Purple and red-ringed eyes stared into his own mirrored Dojustu with both apprehension and wonder. "What's your name?" he asked the boy softly.
"O-" the boy started to respond, but the ninja caretaker interrupted again with a sharp growl. "That's none of your business! Get away from him!" The dark tone made it clear that the threat of violence was real, despite the consequences.
Kioshi sighed and stood, turning to face the man. "Is there something wrong with wanting to know my child's name?" He asked challengingly. Honestly, he was a bit annoyed the man was making things difficult.
"He's not your child!" the man responded stiffly. "Just because he's your blood, doesn't make you his father!"
So the man admitted it.
"I didn't know Kumo ninjas could be so sentimental," Kioshi sneered. "Does this mean the boy has happy supporting parents elsewhere then?"
The man flinched slightly at this, confirming Kioshi's suspicions. The guilty reaction and treaty restrictions were honestly the only reasons Kioshi hadn't knocked the guy out yet. It was obvious that the caretaker was somewhat of a decent person. If not for the thoughts at the arena, then for how his son currently looked worried for the man's safety.
"What have I done to make you hate me so?" Kioshi asked.
The man hesitated, looking taken aback by the earnest question. "You're from Konoha…"
"And?..." Kioshi prodded, making it clear that he didn't think that was enough for incrimination.
The man swallowed. "You…you blew up a hospital…One with many innocents inside…"
Kioshi's eye's flashed over to his son at this. Luckily, the boy didn't seem too shocked or horrified by the statement. The hospital had been the facility on top of the basement where he had been imprisoned. The entire building had indeed exploded due to his actions.
"I didn't know where I was at the time," Kioshi replied softly in defense. "I was only trying to escape…" The guilt was somewhat real. He could have teleported out of the building before disrupting the S-rank seal in the elevator shaft. But at the time, he had felt the need for the distraction and had wanted his prison to burn. It was Kumo's fault for putting him in such a location in the first place.
The Kumo ninja must have seen the pain behind the righteous fury, because his stance shrunk, not exactly comfortable with his country's own actions either. Just as quickly though, it stiffened again in rebellion. "No!" The man stated firmly. "I've been warned that you are good with words! You're a master manipulator! You can't make me feel bad for you! You killed my friend's wife!"
"Bad things often happen to both sides in conflict," Kioshi simply replied. "I was only reacting to abuse wrongfully placed upon me. The Raikage hurt and imprisoned me for years! I'd done nothing to him! All I want is to live in peace and for my friends and family to be safe. Is that too much to ask?"
Due to young listening ears, Kioshi made sure he didn't expand too much into the details. "The Raikage actions were and are inexcusable! I want my children back! And I want to be left alone! I feel like I've been quite gracious and patient so far considering what was done to me."
"Why are you telling me this!?" the man finally exclaimed, finding himself agreeing with the enemy ninja, but still frustrated and confused. "We both know the Raikage is the one to convince! I can't give them to you! Talk to him! Why do you care what I think!"
"Because my son here seems to care about your opinion," Kioshi replied, looking over at the small form, who was still watching their conversation intensely. "Make no mistake. I will be taking him back with me despite what anyone else thinks. I just don't like to do things by force if I don't have to."
The caretaker swallowed, neither looking comforted nor horrified by the proclamation. "The Raikage will try to stop you."
"I know."
"I will be punished for letting him go."
"I know," Kioshi replied again, this time with a bit more compassion. "You can come with us if you want. I'm sure with time I can get Konoha to accept you if you prove yourself."
"Yes! Hibiki sensei! Come with us!" The boy piped up earnestly, joining the conversation for the first time. "I don't want you to get hurt, and I don't want to leave you!"
The man looked torn at the words. "I…I'm not a traitor," he finally said. "And I can't abandon my family. My other family… They would be punished in my stead if I left."
"If staying is what you want, then I won't stop you," Kioshi said solemnly. The lightning Kage's goodwill would likely be low, even if the man could do nothing to change the current situation, but the decision could still be respected.
"Good luck."
The man nodded to the farewell, seemingly resigned to let them leave without a fight.
Kioshi held out a hand to his son. "Let's go." When the boy hesitantly took it, Kioshi smiled and led the boy out into the forest.
It was time for a private conversation.