Chapter 5: The Root Part I

Main Gate of Senju Compound

Perplexed, Kushina and the others stood there before the revelation of the Kyubi's name. None of them ever considered the Bijuus as thinking and feeling creatures, let alone that they would have a name. Kushina wondered if she could also, one day, befriend the Kyubi. Minato had told her about his fight against Killer Bee in the war. The Yondaime Raikage's little brother was a perfect jinchuriki, in complete control and tune with his Bijuu. From Minato's perspective, Killer Bee seemed to enjoy the Hachibi's company. She felt jealous of him, though she never said that to anyone.

She had also met a perfect jinchuriki during the last war when she accompanied the Sandaime to defend Uzushiogakure. However, she didn't get to fight Yagura Karatachi, the Sanbi's jinchuriki. That man became the Yondaime Mizukage after Hiruzen killed his predecessor in the fight. She could still remember the intense battle in her homeland against Kiri and Kumo. That red-haired woman from Kirigakure with lava and boil kekkei genkais gave her a hard time and pushed her close to her limits.

Kushina was feeling extremely curious and immersed in her thoughts about Yagura and Killer Bee and their relationship with their Bijuus that she didn't notice that the Kyubi's chakra cloak had started to cover her. The Kyubi was furious, and his chakra was taking over control of Kushina, given she was so distracted.

This is not good, Minato! People are going to sense the Kyubi's chakra! We can't let them find out Kushina is the Jinchuriki! – Tsunade was yelling, but Minato already knew all that. He could sense some shinobis were coming into their location. He placed his hand on Kushina and used the Hiraishin no Jutsu to take his wife and son to their home on the outskirts of the Village. Tsunade-sama would find a way to explain to any curious shinobi what they felt.

Minato's and Kushina's Residence

The Namikaze family appeared inside their house. Their home was far enough from the village for any shinobi to sense Kushina's chakra bursting. Minato rushed and tried to take Naruto out of Kushina's arms, but two tails of chakra had already formed in the cloak, and with one of them, he was pushed away. Minato performed a series of hand seals. Blue chakra flames covered his fingertips. He needed to suppress the kyubi's chakra. He used his hiraishin to get close to Kushina fast enough to prevent the kyubi's chakra from defending against him again. He pressed his hand on Kushina's stomach. The kyubi's chakra cloak stopped attacking him. However, it didn't disappear. Kushina was still in her mindscape where the Kyubi was held. He was worried. Naruto, for some reason, was not upset at all. His baby seemed unperturbed by the malice of the cloak.

Kushina! Fight it back! Don't let it control you! – Minato couldn't understand why the seal hadn't been able to suppress the cloak completely.

Kushina's mindscape: Kyubi's prison

Kushina found herself in front of the Kyubi. The room was mostly dark except for a few fire torches on the walls. The room was split into two sections; an open area where Kushina could wander around and the Kyubi's cage. The cage had a very tall gate made of steel bars. In the center of the gate, a sheet of parchment with the word "seal" on it secured the door from being opened. The floor was covered with a thin layer of water.

Several times she had been summoned to this place unwillingly by the Kyubi's rage. However, this time was different. She was shaking out of fear. Fear not for the beast trapped behind the gates in front of her. Fear because she noticed Naruto was still in her arms, inside her subconscious. She had just learned that her son would share a bond with the Bijuu sealed inside her and that he could access this place. She didn't think it would be this soon.

That stupid old monkey! I will kill him! – The Kyuubi spoke behind his cage. He hit the cage with his fist, but it didn't even move. Kushina could feel how the Kyuubi's chakra altered the water that flooded the room. She collapsed on her knees, held Naruto close to her chest and turned to look at the giant fox.

You are a fool if you think I'll repeat the mistake I made with Morimaru! I'll destroy your son at the first opportunity I get. I will kill him. You will wake up one day with the blood of your beloved son in your hands – the words from the fox made Kushina shiver. She held Naruto tighter. She couldn't stop the tears from coming out of her eyes. She had never shown any weakness to the beast. She could feel the fox's influence getting stronger. No matter how hard she tried to escape from her subconscious and return to Minato, she couldn't manage. Her fear seemed to make the fox's influence stronger, and he was preventing her from leaving.

Stop it! I'm begging you! You will not have my son! – Kushina's voice was so weak that the Kyubi could barely listen to her. Once again, the giant fox hit the cage's gate. However, unlike the first time he did it, the gate shook just a little. Both noticed it. Kushina lost her breath for a moment while the fox evilly smiled. He once again hit the gates and could feel how they were getting weaker. The Uzumaki girl had always shown a strong will against him and kept the seal strong. But now, she was terrified. Kushina stood up abruptly and approached the gates – You will not escape, you stupid fox! I will not let you do it! – said Kushina firmly, still with tears in her eyes. The fox only laughed – Look at yourself, woman! You can't stop shaking! I can smell the fear in you! I will get free, and your son will be the first to die!

Kushina had been careless and had approached the gate too much. The Kyuubi took advantage of this and pulled one of his hands through the bars to catch Kushina and Naruto. However, she quickly reacted and jumped backward to move away from the fox. The claw of the Kyubi was only a few inches from Naruto's face. Kushina was about to get further away when Naruto started laughing and trying to reach the claw with his hands. Kushina couldn't believe it. Despite the intense killing intent the Kyubi emanated, Naruto still felt comfortable with him. The fox himself was surprised by the baby. He was trying to kill them both, yet the baby was trying to touch him. He was puzzled.

Memories from Morimaru flooded the Kyuubi's mind, and his body acted against his will. He retracted his hand back to the cage and remained staring at Naruto. He lowered his ears, and his expression softened. Kushina was astonished. Perhaps the Shodaime Hokage was right, and humans and bijuus could live together peacefully. She was sure now that Mito-sama had made a mistake with her son. She cleared the tears from her face and doubtfully approached the gate. Naruto seemed to get more excited as they got closer to the Kyubi. She fixed her gaze upon the Kyubi. They looked at each other for a while until the fox roared. He then turned his back on them and cuddled inside his cage.

You know, Kurama is a beautiful name. Isn't there an ancient clan with that name that lives in the mountains in the Land of Fire? – Kushina waited for an answer, but it never came. The fox remained silent in his cage – Perhaps one day, the three of us can be good friends. We're stuck together until I die, so why don't we make it a pleasant time for everyone? What do you say, eh Kurama?

You have no right to use my name, filthy human. My siblings and I were betrayed by your race a long time ago. You humans only seek power and domination over everything you know. Now, begone! – Kushina could sense the sadness in the Kyubi's words, despite the anger and hatred in his tone. In the same way, as she had been forced onto her subconscious, now she was being pushed away and could feel she was recovering her consciousness.

Minato's and Kushina's Residence

Minato felt relieved as he saw how the Kyuubi's chakra cloak started to dissipate. Kushina gasped as she regained consciousness. She was feeling weak and tired – are you OK? What happened? No matter what I did, I couldn't wake you up! – Kushina just nodded and walked towards their bedroom. Minato helped her stand on her feet, as she reeled when she tried to walk alone. Once inside their bedroom, Kushina placed Naruto in his cradle. She stayed there looking at their son for a moment, touched his face gently, walked to her bed, and sat at the edge.

We are fine, don't worry, dear. The Kyubi didn't take very well that we learned his name and relationship with Morimaru-san. He was outraged. But, you know, I think that Hashirama-sama was right. I think we made the right decision. Naruto must grow unbiased against the Kyubi, and maybe, one day, they'll get along – Kushina smiled. However, suddenly she realized it was late – It's getting dark! You have an appointment with Danzo-sama tonight! You need to leave! – Kushina urged Minato to leave. They could talk about everything that happened later. He needed to go and deal with Danzo and the Root. However, Minato shook his head. He performed some hand seals.

Ninpou: Kuchiyose no Justu – a small red toad appeared before Minato. The toad had a red body with blue markings around his eyes and head. He also wore a pair of green goggles hanging around his neck and a white pouch – Kosuke-chan, I need you to deliver a message to Fugaku and Hiashi. They must be in the council room in the Hokage tower – the small toad nodded in agreement. Minato wrote on a scroll something. He then gave it to Kosuke – I will deliver it, Yondaime-sama – Kosuke left immediately to the Hokage Tower.

What are you doing? You need to go! You are dealing with one of the elders. You're the Hokage. You need to be there! – Minato shook his head again – You and Naruto are more important. Fugaku and Hiashi can deal with Danzo-san. I'm sure my absence will irritate the old man. It might be even better this way. Now, tell me everything – Minato sat beside his wife and held her hands.

Hokage Tower

Kosuke went straight to the Hokage Tower. It was a long way to go from Minato's house, but he was the fastest among the toads from Mount Myoboku. As he was getting closer to the tower, he could distinguish two men walking toward the tower as well. They were the men he was looking for, Fugaku Uchiha and Hiashi Hyuga. He speeded up to reach them before they entered the tower. Hiashi noticed his presence and signed Fugaku to stop. They both turned around to find a small red toad jumping in their direction. Would it be a message from Jiraiya-sama? Or maybe Minato's? The toad finally arrived at them.

Fugaku-sama, Hiashi-sama. My name is Kosuke, and I have a message for you from the Yondaime-sama – he then proceeded to take the scroll from his pouch and offer it to the men in front of him. Fugaku took the lead and grabbed the scroll. He opened it and held it with his hands extended so Hiashi could read it too – Thank you, Kosuke-san. You can leave now – Hiashi commented as he received the scroll from Fugaku and hid it in his sleeves. After the red toad had disappeared in a cloud of smoke, they entered the building and went straight to the council room to wait for Danzo.

They were surprised to find the former advisors in the council room. They hadn't been called for the meeting by the Yondaime. They had no reason to be there – Koharu-sama, Homura-sama. No mean to offend, but may I ask you what you are doing here? – the Hyuga asked before Fugaku could say anything. He knew Fugaku would be too rude to the elders. The Uchiha had a resentment against the elders, after all. He had never tried to dissimulate it – I think we're all here for the same reason, Hiashi. We are here to listen to Danzo's report regarding the root – Koharu said. The two elders seemed offended by Hiashi's questioning – My apologies, but I'm afraid you are not needed. The Yondaime summoned only the two of us. He decided you two shouldn't be present during Danzo's hearing – Hiashi explained in a respectful tone – Hearing? This is not a trial, Hiashi. Why is it that Minato does not want us here? – Homura was angry at Hashi's comment – Hiashi-san just made a wrong choice of words, Homura-san. As for why the Yondaime doesn't want you here, I think it needs no explanation. Don't you think? – Fugaku was expecting to hurt the elder's ego and remind them they were no longer in a privileged position – I'm afraid that no, Fugaku. It is not obvious, so would you mind elaborating? – Koharu spoke this time – If you insist. You must remember that your new duties are unrelated to Konoha's administration. You are liaison members between Konoha and the Capital. You have no place in the decision-making of Konoha's welfare anymore unless the Yondaime summons you. And, as Hiashi-san already told you, you weren't called to this meeting. The other reason not to summon you is your close relationship with Danzo-san. You two always sided with him whenever he and the Sandaime had a different opinion. You are biased in his favor. You can't be present at this meeting. I don't want to be rude, but you must leave now – Fugaku stepped aside from the doorway as he ended his speech so the elders could exit the council room.

The elders were annoyed by the way they'd been treated by Fugaku. Homura was about to reply, but Koharu stopped him. They left the room at a steady pace. Hiashi and Fugaku took the seats that used to be occupied by the elders. The middle seating remained empty, as the Hokage was not present. A few minutes later, the old war hawk arrived, escorted by four root ANBU members wearing black cloaks and masks. The ANBUs were carrying tall piles of documents and folders. Danzo ordered them to put them on the desk and leave.

Danzo stood in front of Fugaku and Hiashi. His right arm and eye were covered in bandages. He appeared frail and weak. However, Fugaku and Hiashi knew he was a strong man. He let his opponents believe he was a weak man, so they let their guards down. Fugaku trained under Kagami Uchiha, and he had told him that Danzo was nowhere near as strong as him. However, he was a resourceful man who would use any dirty trick during a battle to win.

Where is Minato? Doesn't he know that punctuality is vital for a shinobi? Let alone for the Hokage – The old man asked.

The Hokage will not join us today. He is dealing with some personal matters – Hiashi commented. This would certainly bother Danzo – Personal matters? He's the Hokage! He is not entitled to have such things as personal matters. His duty to the village comes first. How absurd! I'm guessing he is dealing with his wife being unable to control the Kyubi's chakra. Several shinobis sensed her. I don't

With all due respect, Danzo-sama. We're not here to listen to your opinion about what the Hokage is entitled to or not. Regarding Kushina's-san incident, Tsunade-sama already did the damage control and the few shinobis who sensed it were given a reasonable explanation – Hiashi wouldn't let Danzo dictate the meeting's agenda. Fugaku smirked, which infuriated Danzo even more – You are not here to ask the questions, Danzo-sama. You are here to answer them. Why don't you take a seat? – the head of the Hyuga clan finished. Danzo refused to sit and remained tall before the new advisors. He didn't expect the Hyuga to act so boldly. It seemed he had underestimated Hiashi.

Very well, then. Let's get started, Danzo-san – said the Uchiha as he took a folder from the pile of documents the old man had presented – We'll begin with the exact number of members the root possesses and their identities if you don't mind – the Uchiha was enjoying it. The old war hawk stayed unperturbed. However, he knew the old man was furious. He was most likely cursing him in his mind – according to these files, you only have 57 active members in the root. Nine of them are infiltrated into other nations, and four of them are children. Is that correct? – Hiashi questioned.

if that's what my report says, then that's what it is, Hyuga – Hiashi only smiled and continued – You were supposed to provide their identities. However, I see several of them have no last name. To be precise, only 11 of the files contain a last name, and these are shinobis that you recruited as children years ago from the main clans in Konoha. The clans' heads already provided a list of all the shinobis you forcefully recruited from their clans. It is a curious thing that the only shinobis you provided a last name are those we already knew were part of your organization. Don't you think? – Hiashi remembered that Danzo had tried to recruit a branch family member years ago. His father might be a disgusting man for how he treated the branch family, but in his sickish desire to control the branch family with an iron fist, he had refused Danzo's request to provide a Hyuga for the root. A few days later, that boy from the branch family was found dead, drowned in the river. It was determined that it had been an accident. Although he always suspected Danzo had had something to do with it. Before Danzo could say something, Fugaku spoke.

We know for sure also that in your organization, there are no members from the Hyuga, Uchiha, Sarutobi or Senju clans. Is there a specific reason for that? Did you fear that the loyalty to Konoha and the Sandaime from these clans was stronger for you to control them? – Fugaku and Hiashi had the job of teasing Danzo, driving him up the wall to see how much he would bear before giving a sign of emotion. Danzo hated Fugaku as much as he had hated Kagami. He had the same arrogance and sense of superiority. He couldn't stand the smirk on Fugaku's face. He was on the right track, though. For obvious reasons, he never recruited someone from the Sarutobi clan. The Uchihas never trusted him, and back in the day, when Fugaku's grandfather was head of the clan, they supported Hiruzen. It wasn't until Fugaku became head of the Uchiha clan that the tensions with Hiruzen began. As for the Hyugas, it wasn't that he hadn't tried to recruit one of them, but Hinansho (Hiashi's father) had refused to provide one. With the bird's cage seal, it made no sense to rapt one of them. Hinansho would've figured it out and could've killed him with the seal. Finally, the Senju clan. After the first great war, they decided to continue their lives as civilians. They took their spouse's family names and were eventually forgotten. People just believed they all had died. Tsunade was the last shinobi from the clan, and unlike Orochimaru, she was loyal to Hiruzen. He had kept track of all the Senju remnants as civilians. Not even one of them proved to be talented. The glory of the mighty clan had died with Tobirama.

The interrogation went on for hours until nearly dawn. Despite all the efforts from Fugaku and Hiashi, Danzo never even flinched. Fugaku had to acknowledge him for that. Both advisors stood up – That would be all. At least for now, Danzo-san. Before you're dismissed, I must inform you that the Yondaime wants to meet all the root members personally. He will send a message with the date and place you should present them. We hereby, on behalf of the Yondaime Hokage, order you to call back to Konoha all the shinobis you have on active missions. With the exception of your nine infiltrated recruits, you should present every member of your organization. Given the nature of the missions the root is undertaking, You have two months to summon them here. Fail to do so, and you will be found in contempt and held prisoner. I hope that we made ourselves clear, Danzo-san. The council will conduct a more exhaustive analysis of the documents you provided in the following days. You are now dismissed from this meeting – Fugaku seemed to enjoy way too much reprehending Danzo.

Danzo had to praise their perseverance and their ability to irritate him. It took all his self-control to restrain himself from replying or attacking them – Oh, it is crystal clear, Uchiha – Danzo replied while walking out of the room. He would make them pay for this humiliation. Minato and Hiruzen will have to pay as well. Later that day, Fugaku and Hiashi briefed Minato about everything that happened with Danzo.

Namikaze Residence: Eight weeks later

Jiraiya stood close to the window, his back resting on the wall and cross-armed. His gaze fixed upon the horizon outside the window. It was late at night already. Only a few traces of light could be seen from the distance from where the village was. The village slept. It was cold outside (one of the most frigid winters Jiraiya had ever seen in Konoha). No wonder the villagers were so quiet now. The smell of the coffee Kushina had prepared was comforting, or could it be Tsunade's essence? She was sitting on a couch next to him, legs crossed, one arm on the couch's arm and the other extended on the couch's back. Despite the cold weather, she wore her regular attire. Her large breast was exposed. She was keeping her body warm with her chakra flow.

Their sensei was sitting at the table with a cup of hot coffee. The former Hokage kept wearing his Hokage robes even now that he was retired; only the distinctive hat was missing. Next to him were the Hyuga twins sitting. None of them enjoyed the taste of the coffee, so instead, they were drinking herbal tea. Fugaku stood behind his wife, who had taken a seat on the main couch when offered by her friend. His expression was as hard as ever. Mikoto, on the other hand, seemed amused. She was happy that her clan, and most importantly, her husband, was taking a significant role in Konoha's ventures. Kushina sat beside her friend, feeling awkward having all these people at her home. She never liked serious and tense situations. She had been told before by the Sandaime that she didn't know how to behave at formal events. She, like Tsunade, was considered almost royalty for being the last member of her clan. The Daimyo liked having the last member of the Uzumaki clan present in all the events he assisted at Konoha, and she always ended up grounded by Koharu and Homura for her lack of self-restraint and loud behavior. Their babies, Naruto and Sasuke, were now in Naruto's room. Itachi-kun was looking after them. Minato had placed a silencing seal in the living room to prevent Itachi from listening to what they were about to discuss. Minato, Shikaku and Shibi stood side by side, close to the couch where Mikoto and Kushina sat. The rest of the surveillance team remained in their positions, spying on the root.

Are we sure about it? – the Nara's clan head questioned as he read Jiraiya's report – I didn't expect him to have this many members in the root! He won't come down easily.

We are entirely sure, Shikaku-san. Of course, that's only the number of root members we've been able to track down. We don't know how many people Danzo-sama has infiltrated in other nations. Maybe even in our regular ANBU corps – Hizashi spoke. He felt comfortable talking on his brother's behalf. His brother has dramatically changed since he became an advisor for the Hokage. He had even told him he was working on fulfilling his promise, but that had to wait until this mission was over – every single shinobi has a different chakra signature. With the Byakugan, we've been able to identify in total 193 different members in the root. Twenty-four are children; one child, in particular, has a very peculiar chakra. He is always close to Danzo-sama and is trained by him. Not to mention that inside the headquarters of the root, there are five rooms heavily protected with seals. Not even with the Byakugan, we've been able to see through the walls of these rooms. I had no idea Danzo-sama possessed such seals to block our vision.

He must be using Tobirama's-sensei seals. He developed some protective seals for the Hokage's vault where we keep Hashirama's-sama scrolls, as long with all the forbidden scrolls written by every Hokage. He designed those seals so not even Byakugan could see through them – It was still unclear to the former Hokage how Danzo had managed to learn these seals. Perhaps he tricked Homura into teaching them to him. Tobirama-sensei had only taught the seals to him and Homura.

I didn't know the Nidaime had developed such techniques – Hiashi had taken the information as an insult. Did the Nidaime Hokage believe the Hyugas could've tried to steal those scrolls? How vile of him to think so low of his clan. Hiruzen was a perceptive man and noticed Hiashi's contempt – It is not that he didn't trust your clan, Hiashi. Tobirama-sensei was the kind of man for whom not even all the possible precautions were enough. That's just who he was.

I read the report he delivered to you eight weeks ago. He only included in his report those members Sarutobi-sensei already knew about. The deadline Minato gave him to present the entirety of his force is getting closer. He started emptying his headquarters early this week. We've tracked down all the shinobis that have left the HQ. It looks like he has more in common with Orochimaru than we thought. So far, we've followed them to eight different hideouts in the Land of Fire. Three of them used to be Orochimaru's – the toad sennin spoke, but his gaze was still fixed upon the window, looking in the village's direction.

We also have Nono's situation. She just disappeared two weeks ago. She used to be part of the root years ago. Sarutobi-sensei and I appointed her as my replacement in the hospital so that Danzo couldn't force her back to the root. With a high profile in the village, Danzo couldn't act against her so easily. It can't be just a coincidence she's gone now – Tsunade had noticed a weird behavior in Nono a few days after Danzo's hearing with the advisors. One day, she didn't show up. She didn't worry about it initially, but it's been gone for two weeks now, and she's nowhere to be found.

I agree with you, Tsunade-sama. Nono-san wouldn't have abandoned her children just like this. The advisors, the sandaime, and I will go to the orphanage early morning tomorrow. Maybe they can tell us something about Nono's whereabouts. I have a mark close to the orphanage, so we can use my hiraishin to get there without being followed. We need to be careful – Minato looked up to Nono-san. She had dedicated the last years of her life to looking after all the orphans. He had witnessed before how these children referred to her as "mother." She was a loving and caring woman. Why would Danzo do something against her? – I will go with you, too. Nono was one of the very first medics I ever trained. I feel responsible for her – the slug princess's expression was a mix of sadness and anger. She squeezed the couch's arm with her inhuman strength and broke it unconsciously – I'm so sorry, kiddo! I'll buy you a new one! – No worries, Tsunade-sama – kiddo? Minato couldn't help to feel underestimated every time he spoke with his sensei or Tsunade-sama. Despite his position as Hokage, they still treated him as a child.

What is your plan, Yondaime-sama? Are we going to take them down in a full strike? Or do you want to get the root to change their loyalty to you? – the jounin commander didn't think the second option was viable. The root members underwent intense training to remove them from any emotion and brainwashing. They were loyal to Danzo. Minato just sighed and rubbed his forehead with his hand. He never thought being Hokage would imply undertaking such decisions. He understood why Hiruzen had said that passing on the hat had released him from a heavy weight on his shoulders – we still have no concrete proof that Danzo-san or the root have committed any crime against Konoha – Minato could notice Fugaku was not happy to hear that. He continued before the Uchiha could argue – We know they have done it. That's a fact. But that man is too careful. Taking him down without proof will bring us problems with some clans in the village and the court of fire. Based on what we know about their training and brainwashing, I'm afraid a fight is our only course of action. However, I must tell you this; they're still Konoha's citizens. In their twisted minds, they think following Danzo mindlessly is best for Konoha. When the time comes, we must fight to incapacitate them, not kill them. I know they will not act similarly, but we're not them.

Shibi-san, how many members do we have available in the ANBU? If we do this, we must make it as quiet as possible. We can't involve regular shinobis in this. This will be a mission for the ANBU – Shikaku knew keeping the good image of Danzo, despite all his crimes, was essential. If the village knew about this strike could cause a division of opinion and lead to a rebellion. Several shinobis fought alongside him during the three wars. He was considered a war hero by some. It had to be contained at least until the strike had taken place and proof was found. Only then could Danzo be brought to trial.

We have close to five hundred elements in the ANBU. However, a third of them are in missions outside the Land of Fire. I understand that you don't want to involve other forces in this, but I offer the support of my clan for the strike. The Aburame clan has the highest number of members in the ANBU. You can count on our discretion for this – Shibi felt responsible for the situation with the root. Danzo's right hand was Tatsuma Aburame, and in a similar way to the regular ANBU corps, the Hyugas had found that the Aburame clan was the one with the larger presence in the Root.

There is no need for that, Shibi-san. The ANBU and us will suffice for the attack. We won't attack all the hideouts at the same time. We'll take down the HQ and Danzo-san here. We'll deal with the hideouts once we have him as our prisoner. He's been emptying his HQ, so there will not be much resistance. After that, we'll get the others. The nine of us here are more than enough to take down the HQ. We'll take the ANBU as a precaution – Minato couldn't let the Aburame clan get involved. If he allowed that, Fugaku would expect him also to allow the Uchihas to act. The Uchiha clan had a resentment against the elders. They might get too excited to act against one of them.

After a few more hours of deliberation and planning, everyone left. Tsunade was too nervous about Nono. She hoped the people from the orphanage could give them some answers.

Konoha's Orphanage

The orphanage was located on the outskirts of Konoha. The building was in the middle of a plain open area where the children could play. This area was surrounded by dense pine woods. The orphanage was built during the early years of the Sandaime Hokage reign. He built it right after the end of the First great war. The number of orphans increased a lot after it. It was a huge building built with wood from the Senju Forest. The Senju forest was a forest grown by the Shodaime Hokage. The wood from the trees from this forest was more robust and more resistant since they were created and fed with chakra. It was made of the same tree used for the chakra papers to identify someone's nature of chakra. Hiruzen chose this location so the children could always have a great view of nature. It was close to the woods where he used to be trained by the Shodaime and Nidaime. He used to visit the orphanage regularly. Good memories from his masters constantly flooded his mind when he was there. However, he hadn't visited it in the last couple of years.

A chubby tall woman rushed to the door when she heard someone knocking. It was too early in the morning for any visitors. Who on earth could it be? She wore a black gown with a white apron and a white coif covering her hair – I'm coming! I'm coming! For God's sake! – she was nearly at the door when it was opened abruptly. She froze when she saw the Yondaime and Sandaime Hokage standing there, accompanied by the advisors and Tsunade Hime – Jeez! It's freezing outside! Sorry to enter this way, Keiri-chan, but I'm too old to stay in the cold for too long – the former Hokage laughed as they entered the building. A second man wearing a black kimono with white trimmings and a white apron walked into the room, running as he heard Keiri yell out of surprise – is everything OK, Keiri-san? – asked the man. He was tall and old. He had a gray beard and mustache. His dark eyes were hidden behind large rectangular glasses with a brownish frame. He was speechless the moment he saw who had just entered the orphanage. It was not a rarity to see the sandaime here, or at least it didn't use to be. The yondaime also visited the hospital every quarter to see how the children were doing. However, this was the first time all the council and a sannin were here.

What can we do for you, Yondaime-sama? – Kanpu, the man with glasses, Kanpu and Keiri seemed to be distressed by this visit. They were nervous – is there somewhere more private where we can talk more freely? – Tsunade asked as she got closer to Keiri. Tsunade was intrigued by their behavior. Their presence could be a shock for them to take in, but they were starting to sweat. There was something off about it. They even seemed to be afraid – Of course, Tsunade-sama. Please, follow us – Tsunade-sama? Is that blonde woman the same Tsunade-sama mother talked about? A young boy was hiding behind the door spying on them. He was a short boy with long dark hair and eyes. He had a prominent nose with a large birthmark covering it. He wore a dark green cap, a blue scarf, and a dark sweater with blue trousers.

Tsunade and the others felt the presence of the boy but said nothing. If the caretakers were hiding something related to Nono, the boy could be a more helpful source of information than them. They all loved Nono as a mother. They were taken to Kenpu's office. He was the second in command of the orphanage since Nono arrived. He decided to let her run the orphanage since he felt he was too old. He had been directing the Orphanage since its creation. He was a young man back then when Hiruzen-sama had entrusted him with the children of Konoha – Please, take a seat – the old man offered to his guests. Keiri brought in more chairs for everyone. However, Fugaku and Hiashi rejected them. They could've said something before she had to go all the way to one of the classrooms to get them. She was breathing heavily, trying to catch her breath again. Kenpu sat behind his desk, and Keiri remained standing next to him. On the other side of his desk, Minato, Hiruzen and Tsunade sat while Fugaku and Hiashi stood behind them.

I think the purpose of our visit is quite obvious, Kenpu-san. Do you really want me to explain myself? – Minato questioned while he gave a cold gaze to the caretakers. Both of them gulped in fear – I'm afraid so, Yondaime-sama. I can't think of any reason for the whole council, along with the Sandaime and Tsunade-sama, to come all the way here – Kenpu stuttered as he spoke. They were no shinobis. They didn't know to hide their emotions. Minato and the others could see through them. Before Minato could continue, Tsunade burst – Don't play the fool with us, you two! We are here because of Nono! She's been gone for two weeks, and you'll tell us where she is! – Tsunade was a fearsome woman when she was angry. The boy who had followed them all the way to Kenpu's office fell on his back when Tsunade yelled.

Kenpu and Keiri were shaking. This wasn't good. There was no way they could hide the truth from them. It would be better to spit it out and hope they would protect them from the root. They looked at each other. Kenpu nodded to Keiri, and she spoke as Kenpu dried out the sweat from his forehead with a handkerchief.

All right, then. We'll tell you everything we know, but we'll need you to swear you will provide the orphanage with protection, Yondaime-sama – the woman said. Her hands were still shaking, and Kenpu seemed to be terrified. After Minato had assured them that nothing would happen to them and that they would be protected from anyone who could threaten them, they continued.

Three years ago, Danzo-sama came to the orphanage. He was accompanied by Orochimaru-sama and another shinobi I couldn't identify. It was a couple of months before Orochimaru-sama left the village. They came to threaten Nono-san. Danzo-sama wanted her to rejoin his troops. He said he needed a talented medic shinobi, and an expert in infiltration. However, Nono-san refused to go back to her former life – Orochimaru again. Hiruzen could only regret all the wrong decisions he made regarding his student. He should've killed Orochimaru when he had the chance – Danzo-sama said he could only accept a trade. If she didn't return to his troops, she needed to provide a child from the orphanage to take her place, someone who could be trained by his men and turned into a weapon for Konoha – Keiri stopped for a few seconds before continuing, but she was interrupted by Kenpu.

You must know that Nono-san loves every child from this orphanage as if they were her own. She would never surrender one of her children to Danzo-sama. I saw Nono's determination in her eyes. She was about to accept and go back to the root. However, … - Kenpu looked down. Sadness filled his eyes.

However, before Nono-san could say anything, one of our children volunteered to go with Danzo-sama. Danzo-sama and the others were impressed by the boy. They didn't notice he had been listening to us the whole time. He told Danzo-sama he had been training regular and medical ninjutsu with his mother. He said he was the perfect choice and that his mother deserved a peaceful life in the orphanage – Keiri continued when Kenpu couldn't keep talking. He felt sorry for the boy. He had been mean to Kabuto when he arrived at the orphanage, yet he sacrificed himself for their welfare.

Nono-san didn't agree to that, but it was pointless. Danzo-sama was fascinated by the boy. He threatened Nono-san with destroying and killing everyone in the orphanage if she resisted or if we told anything about it to Hiruzen-sama – Kenpu could not look up. He was afraid to see the disappointment in their eyes. He had dedicated his life to the orphanage since the sandaime built it. He had failed to do what he was charged to do. He had been incapable of protecting Kabuto.

That stupid geezer! He's disgusting! Damn you, Orochimaru. I can't believe I never noticed he was such a twisted person. No wonder he and Danzo got along so well – Tsunade was furious. She wanted to make them suffer herself – I'm sorry. It's never easy to learn that the man you considered your friend for so many years turned out to be even more disgusting than I already knew he was. However, what does all that have to do with Nono's disappearance? – Tsunade was so focused on the story that she had forgotten why they were there for a second. Tsunade was not informed about the children's experimentation when Orochimaru's lab was found. Hiruzen and Jiraiya decided not to let her know all the details. It was pointless that she knew everything.

It has everything to do with it, Tsunade-sama. Your return to Konoha was another factor for the recent events – Keiri's comment gave Tsunade a shiver. Why would she be a factor in all of this – You see, Nono-san was extremely happy since your arrival. A few days after you arrived, she said maybe now was the perfect time to get Kabuto back. After the Kyubi's incident, it wasn't strange that she didn't get back until very late; sometimes, she didn't even come to sleep. We just thought she was swamped in the hospital. It turned out she was doing something else every time she didn't come home. Two weeks ago, she finally came clear with us. She waited until it was very late and all the children were asleep. She woke us up in the middle of the night to talk with us – Tsunade and the others were puzzled. Tsunade more than the others. Kenpu raised his hand to indicate Keiri to stop. He finally raised his head and continued where Keiri had left.

Nono-san said that now that you were back in the village, she wasn't needed anymore in the hospital. She told us she had made a deal with Danzo-sama. She would return to Danzo's-sama troops and work for him for a year on an important mission outside Konoha. In exchange, Danzo-sama would let Kabuto return with us once Nono-san had completed her task. She said Danzo-sama had refused to let her see him before the mission and that we couldn't say anything to the Hokage. Nono-san and Danzo-sama were supposed to make sure Konoha's archives showed she had been sent on a mission to prevent any suspicion from the Hokage office. I don't know what went wrong, but that's all we know. Other than the same day Nono-sama left, a man wearing a black cloak and a white mask came to tell us we'd be being watched and that we would be killed if we said anything to you.

You don't have to worry about that. The men that were watching you have been incapacitated the moment we arrived. We have them under a strong genjustu for now. They won't even remember we were here – Minato's words surprised the caretakers. The boy behind the doors couldn't help but let a "Wow" escape his mouth at the Yondaime's statement. Minato and the others could listen to him but, again, said nothing. The file for Nono's mission had indeed been placed in Konoha's archives. But given the timing for it, Minato knew something was off. He hadn't ordered a mission for her, nor did Tsunade-sama. He made sure to let the man who placed the file believe he had done an excellent job fooling them so that Danzo wouldn't suspect. Danzo never expected Tsunade to be so close to Nono as to get to this point due to her absence.

Thank you for your information. I'll have some of my best ANBU looking after you. You don't have to worry about Danzo's men. We are leaving now, Keiri-san, Kenpu-san – Minato, Hiruzen, and Tsunade stood up, ready to go. Kenpu and Keiri bowed to them. They were crying – Please, Yondaime-sama. Bring Nono-san and Kabuto-kun back home safely – You have my word – said Minato smiling at them. They found the little boy standing before them when they opened the door to leave. He also had tears on his face. He walked through Minato, the advisors and Hiruzen and went straight to Tsunade. Tsunade was surprised. Any regular boy would be excited to see the Hokage and former Hokage, yet, he was going to her.

The boy was blushing. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, non-counting his mother, of course. He was trying with all his might not to stare at the large breast of the blonde kunoichi in front of her. This was really hard since, given his short height, they were right in front of his face – You are Tsunade-sama, right? – the boy asked, stuttering – I am. Who's asking? – the blonde woman replied – My name is Urushi Yakushi, and I have something from my mother for you – Tsunade and the others were surprised. Even the caretakers were. What could he have for Tsunade? He called himself Yakushi. These children were indeed Nono's. Apparently, most of the orphans called themselves Yakushi, after their mother – and what is it, boy? – she asked – it is a letter, ma'am. She gave it to me the night she left. She told me to hide It very well. I was supposed to give it to you only if she didn't return in one year. But I want my mother and my brother back. You can have it now – well, I'm right here. Give it to me, boy – Tsunade extended her hand. But the boy stayed muted – I didn't know you would be here. It is in our bedroom, ma'am – very well, then. Let's go.

The boy delivered the letter to Tsunade. It was a scroll with a piece of parchment on it. The boy didn't know, but it was a storage scroll with a protective seal on it. She noticed the familiar seal on it. She invented it years ago. She was not proficient in fuinjutsu despite being an Uzumaki, but she had developed a few of them with Jiraiya's help that could come in handy for a medic shinobi. Despite the boy's insistence, she decided not to open the letter there. They all left and returned to the Hokage Tower using Minato's Hiraishin.

Hokage Tower: Council Room

Everyone was back in the council room in the blink of an eye. It was, for sure, an unpleasant sensation for everyone but Minato. Tsunade took the letter out of her pocket. The seal required a drop of blood and a specific medical ninjutsu to be opened. Tsunade had invented it so that all the medical equipment she had developed and was used by every medic shinobi in Konoha was not stolen by other villages during the war. The medic shinobis carried all their medical kit in storage scrolls protected by this seal. She wondered how on earth did Nono get her blood to prepare the seal for her? That was not important at the moment. She closed her eyes as she bit her thumb to make it bleed. Keeping her eyes closed, she rubbed her bleeding thumb on the seal and applied the distinctive healing chakra with the bluish-green aura. The seal disappeared, and the letter appeared in Tsunade's hand as the storage scroll disappeared into a cloud of smoke. She healed her finger and cleaned the blood off it with a handkerchief before opening her eyes. Fugaku and Hiashi found this extremely odd. They, of course, weren't aware of Tsunade's hemophobia.

"Tsunade-sama, if you are reading this, it is highly likely that I'm dead. Danzo-sama has been doing horrible stuff in the root for several years. He's committed treason several times against the Sandaime and Konoha. I regret my part in all this.

I decided to return to the root with the hope of getting back my beloved son. I know the chances that Danzo-sama would keep his word are very low, but I had no other choice. You are the only one I trust and the only one that could understand the work we developed.

My work with the root was not limited to espionage. A copy of all my work during the last few years with Orochimaru-sama and Danzo-sama in genetics is in a safe place, hidden from the root. They don't know about the existence of such a copy. I moved the files so you can access them, and maybe this would be enough to take down Danzo-sama and the root. You will find the documents in Nawaki's-kun grave, inside his coffin. I'm deeply sorry for what we did, for what I did to you and your family. Tsunade-sama, I hope, one day, you can forgive me.

I know that after you read my notes and research, you will hate me. I have no right to ask anything from you, but please, protect my children, save my Kabuto from Danzo-sama."

What is the meaning of all this? What was she apologizing for? How could she dare to profane his little brother's resting place to keep these documents? Why would Nono torture her like this?

What does it say, Tsunade-sama? – Minato asked. He was worried. Tsunade-sama was pale as if she had seen a ghost. Her hands and knees were shaking. Minato and Hiruzen got closer to her – is everything OK, Tsunade? – questioned her old sensei. Tsunade was only able to mutter a few words – Jiraiya … Bring Jiraiya to me – no questions asked, Minato used his Hiraishin no Jutsu to go for his sensei.

Just a few notes:

Naruto was born on October 10th, and it's been around ten weeks since then. This would make the date close to mid-December. From the anime chapter of Naruto and Hinata, we know that it gets snowy in Konoha during the winter. That's why the cold weather.

At this moment, Kabuto would be around nine years old. Which would be too early for the time Orochimaru finds him. Things will go a little differently with Nono and Kabuto from here on. He is still going to be found and trained by Orochimaru. That must happen. His story just needs to change slightly because Nono's plot will be more involved with other stuff.

In the next few chapters, we'll start getting some time skips to reach Naruto's graduation from the academy.

Something I forgot to post in the first chapter:

* The Otsutsuki are not aliens. Their power will come from Kaguya eating the fruit from the Shinju.

* Hamura Otsutsuki and the Hyugas will have a more significant role. I always thought their potential was wasted in Naruto's Lore.

* No reincarnations from Ashura and Indra. I always hated that, in the end, Neji had been right. Naruto was tied by his fate with Ashura. That's gone.

* Nagato's rinnegan will have another origin.

* Madara's eyes will end up with someone different.

* In the anime/manga, the scale of power changed dramatically from the first part to Shippuden. In order to make sense of the scale of power in Shippuden, I will make some adjustments in the first portion of the story.