Chapter 6: The Root, Part II
Somewhere in Konoha
Jiraiya lay on the floor of an abandoned tower. He needed to keep his chakra as low as possible to prevent others from detecting him. His eyes resembled a toad's; his pupils were thin and horizontal. He was using his Toad Spying Technique, which linked his vision and ear with a summoned toad. That way, the toad could get closer to the target he intended to spy on without raising suspicion. His summoned toad was a Beira toad, the smallest toad species in the world. It had been able to enter the root headquarters, and thanks to that, he was inspecting the interior of the building with his jutsu. Given that the toads used chakra from natural energy, they couldn't be detected by a regular sensor shinobi. Everyone was surprised by the ability of Jiraiya to infiltrate. He could enter the headquarters and listen to conversations inside the building without being noticed.
Jiraiya was engrossed in his mission when his student, the Yondaime Hokage, suddenly appeared before him. Jiraiya stood up, preoccupied. What could bring Minato here? – What happened, Minato? How did things go in the orphanage? – Jiraiya asked as he released the summoning jutsu and ended the spying technique. Minato's expression troubled Jiraiya. – I don't have time to explain, sensei. I need you to come with me. Tsunade-sama needs you – Minato said while extending his hand to his sensei. Jiraiya didn't even hesitate. When he heard Tsunade needed him, he took Minato's hand, and both disappeared in the blink of an eye.
Hokage Tower: Council Room
Minato and Jiraiya appeared in the room. Fugaku and Hiashi were gone. They had decided to leave Tsunade with the people she was close to. Jiraiya ran to Tsuande as soon as he arrived. He kneeled before her and placed his hands on hers. She was shaking. Their sensei was standing behind her with his hands on her shoulders. She raised her sight and met Jiraiya's eyes. He could notice her eyes were starting to water. – What happened, Tsunade? Are you all right? – He was worried for his beloved. Tsunade stood up – I need you to come with me – she said as she started walking towards the door. Hiruzen and Minato nodded to Jiraiya. He stood up as well and followed Tsunade. She stopped at the door and turned to Minato and Hiruzen – I'll explain everything to you later. I need to confirm something first – and then she continued walking.
Once outside the Hokage Tower – Tsunade! Wait! Where are we going? Tell me what happened, please – Jiraiya kept trying to make his teammate talk for a long time as they walked. She continued walking without saying a single word to him until they reached a local bar – wait for me here. It won't take long – said the blonde kunoichi – it is too early in the morning for a drink, don't you think? Please let me know what's happening – Tsunade avoided making eye contact with Jiraiya. She got closer to him but kept her head low. Looking at the floor – I'll tell you everything once we reach our destination. For now, can you just be with me and say nothing, please? Just be with me – she said with a frail voice as she placed her hand on Jiraiya's chest. Jiraiya was in shock. He hadn't seen Tsunade like this since Dan's death. Watching her like this hurt his soul. He placed both of his hands on Tsunade's shoulders and hugged her. Holding her close to him – It's OK, Tsunade, if that's what you need from me, that's what you'll get – Tsunade whispered a quiet thank you and let go of Jiraiya to enter the bar. A few moments later, she came out of the bar with a tokkuri of sake and three ochokos – at least let me carry those for you, Tsuna – She smiled at Jiraiya and gave him the tokkuri and ochokos. She then continued walking, and Jiraiya followed her in silence.
Tsunade stopped again to enter the Yamanaka flower shop. She was inside for a moment and returned with a bouquet of Tsubaki flowers. Jiraiya looked at the flowers with surprise – Tsunade! These flowers are… – Tsunade spoke before Jiraiya could continue – I know. It's been too long. You promised you wouldn't say a word until we got there, remember? – Jiraiya said nothing and followed her again. Although now, he knew where they were heading. What could have happened in the orphanage to make Tsunade go there? She hasn't been in that place since Mito-sama died.
They walked into the Senju Forest, in the opposite direction to where the orphanage was located. They walked for what seemed an eternity to both of them until they reached a huge mausoleum with the Senju clan symbol on top of the gates. The former Daimyo had had it built when the Shodaime Hokage died. Mito and Tobirama thought it was unnecessary. Hashirama never liked the luxury. However, they couldn't reject the Daimyo's offering to the late Hokage. He built the mausoleum for the entire family of the first Hokage. The resting place for Hashirama, Mito, Morimaru, Ume (Morimaru's wife), Nawaki and Tobirama was there. That's the closest place to Konoha that Tsunade had visited since she left the village. She only returned for her grandmother's funeral but never went to the village, and now that she was back, she was forced to come to this place where only sadness and torment waited for her.
Tsunade stood before the gates, staring at them for a while before finding the courage to enter. She opened the gates and entered the mausoleum, followed by Jiraiya, who closed the gates behind them. Six tombstones lay before them. There was still enough space for more tombstones. But only one more was needed as her grandfather's lineage would end with her since she never had children. Tears started to pour from her eyes. She sat on the floor right before Nawaki's grave – sit with me – said Tsunade in a low voice. Jiraiya sat beside her, opened the tokkuri bottle and served sake in the three ochokos. He gave one to Tsunade, took another for himself, and placed the last one in front of the six graves – For those who left us too early, may they rest in peace – said Jiraiya as he drank his sake. Tsunade drank hers, too, but the tears never ceased. – Will you explain to me what happened? – asked Jiraiya. Tsunade took Nono's letter from her obi belt and handed it to Jiraiya to read.
– Has Nono lost her mind? Why did she do it? – Jiraiya was furious at Nono. How could she do that to Tsunade after all she did for her? He stood up abruptly. Now, it all made sense. This is why Tsunade was acting so weird – You don't have to do it, Tsunade. I'm here. Go outside, and I'll get the files from Nawaki's grave – Tsunade looked up to find Jiraiya's gaze and smiled at him – I don't think that'll do it. She must have placed the same sealing jutsu on his grave so only I could open the coffin – instinctively, she grabbed her grandfather's necklace. All the memories from her little brother flashed through her eyes. She stood up and went right to her brother's grave. Jiraiya tried to stop her in vain. She removed the concrete plate that covered the grave. A small coffin could be seen at the bottom of the hole. Jiraiya used a doton jutsu to raise the earth and elevate the coffin. Tsunade touched the coffin gently, and, as she expected, a sealing jutsu had been placed on the coffin. She broke the seal with her blood and was about to open the coffin when Jiraiya held her arm – You broke the seal already. Let me take the files. You don't need to see him – Tsunade bit her lip and considered it for a moment. Without saying anything, she turned around and walked a few steps away from her brother's coffin to let Jiraiya collect Nono's files.
Jiraiya opened the coffin and found a small skeleton there. A bunch of folders and documents had been placed carefully in his arms as if he were hugging them. The weight of the files made his clothes sink in his ribs. There was also a small bouquet of Tsubaki flowers. They had already started to wither. Jiraiya looked at the boy's skeleton with sadness. The legs of the skeleton were missing. Nawaki had stepped on an explosive mine from Iwagakure during the Second Great War. The explosion hadn't been strong enough to kill him instantly. However, his legs were destroyed, and the bones shattered into small pieces that were thrown away as projectiles by the explosion. These pieces of bone had perforated his stomach, lungs, and face. The bleeding was excessive. Orochimaru had used a katon jutsu to cauterize the legs and stop the bleeding from his limbs. However, he couldn't stop the inner bleeding. Orochimaru used a strong genjutsu on Nawaki to put him to sleep and prevent him from feeling the extreme pain he was suffering. He carried him on his back to the closest medical camp on the battlefield. It was Nono's camp. On their way to the camp, Nawaki had woken up from Orochimaru's genjutsu several times. This was proof of how intense the pain was. Among the sannin, Orochimaru was the best in genjutsu, and no one had been able to free from one of his illusions. Despite Orochimaru's efforts, Nawaki was already dead when he reached Nono's camp.
Jiraiya moved Nawaki's hands gently and carefully to take the documents. When he lifted the pile of papers, he noticed something odd. Most of Nawaki's spinal cord was gone. There was no reason for this. Was this the reason Nono had placed the documents here? So Tsunade saw that the spinal cord was missing? But why? Why would someone take Nawaki's spine? Undoubtedly, the answer was in the documents she left for Tsunade – Tsuna… I don't know how to say this gently, but … – a shiver invaded Tsunade – what's wrong? What did you find? – she dared not turn back and look at her little brother. Jiraiya approached her and gave her the pile of documents. He touched her face delicately and cleaned the tears from her face. Tsunade blushed – I don't know who did it, but I'm sure we'll find the answers in these documents. Someone stole Nawaki's spinal cord from his grave – Tsunade was shocked. Why would they need his spinal cord? Unless… she gave back the documents to Jiraiya and hesitantly approached the coffin. It was true; the spinal cord was gone, but why? But that was not it. Nawaki's body had been moved. She could tell by the uneven discoloration of the bones. Nono didn't just steal Nawaki's spine cord. She had taken his entire body, and this is just what she put back in the coffin for her to find. Furious, she yelled and cursed Nono for what she had done. Jiraiya comforted and calmed her. After a while, she finally calmed down. They placed the bouquet that Tsunade had brought inside the coffin. Tsubaki flowers were Nawaki's favorite. They closed the coffin, lowered it and closed the grave.
Tsunade decided to stay longer in the mausoleum to pay respects to her family and mourn them properly. She hadn't been able to mourn them for a long time. She would usually try to avoid thinking about them. She needed this time with them. It was twilight by the time she was ready to go. As they were preparing to leave, Jiraiya took a storage scroll and sealed the documents. They exited the mausoleum. However, before leaving, Jiraiya placed a sealing jutsu on the entire mausoleum to prevent others from going inside again. Full of anger, sadness and wondering, Tsunade and Jiraiya left for the Senju Compound to examine the documents.
Senju Compound
Tsunade and Jiraiya sat in Tsunade's studio. Jiraiya placed the storage scroll on the desk and performed the release seal to unseal the documents. Jiraiya and Tsunade went through them to classify them. They divided the documents into two sections: medical and scientific research and mission reports. They realized that there were some other storing seals in the documents, so before deciding to read everything they had, Tsunade broke all the storage seals. The size of the pile of documents had tripled.
Jiraiya read the mission reports while Tsunade read everything related to the experiments the root was developing. Jiraiya couldn't believe how far Danzo had gone. That stupid old war hawk had even plotted an assassination for the Daimyo to have him replaced with a root member. He intended to make Orochimaru the Yondaime Hokage. He, of course, had failed miserably. It looks like he had underestimated the twelve guardian ninjas. The assault had been blamed on the Prajna Group from the Land of Woods. The files also confirmed Fugaku's suspicions: Danzo killed Kagami and stole his eyes. But he didn't stop there; he also killed Kagami's son right before the end of the last war. Jiraiya was so immersed and surprised by the reports that he didn't notice Tsunade's mood change – Jiraiya… would you mind preparing a cup of coffee? I guess we'll stay up all night with this – Tsunade's voice was monotone. She kept her head low to prevent Jiraiya from looking directly at her face. Jiraiya found this odd. However, he knew Tsunade had gone through a lot today in the graveyard. He didn't want to push the subject, so he did as he was told. He stood up and went to the kitchen to prepare a pot of coffee. By the time Jiraiya came back, Tsunade was gone. He couldn't see her nor feel her chakra. He got closer to the desk where Tsunade was reading Nono's journals. What he saw froze him. He dropped both cups of coffee. He left the room rapidly and tried to sense Tsunade's chakra. He was not a good sensor, but he was so adept at Tsunade's chakra that he was sure he could sense her, and he did. He ran full speed to the door that leads to the basement, walked down the stairs and found a massive metal door. He tried to open the door to Tsunade's lab, but he couldn't do it. It was blocked inside. He had no option; Tsunade may do something foolish after what she saw. He needed to get inside the lab no matter what. He formed a Rasengan and hit the thick metal door with it. The door was thrown away and suddenly stopped. Tsunade stopped it on the other side with only one finger. Then it fell front on the floor to reveal Tsunade. Jiraiya was speechless.
Tsunade was standing there. Her arms, face and chest were covered entirely in blood – Tsunade! What have you done?! – a hysterical Jiraiya asked as he rushed to her. He examined her, trying to find the wound and the source of the blood, but he couldn't find any. He hadn't paid attention to her face, but he felt scared when he looked at her. He hadn't seen such hatred on her face ever before. More surprising for him, she wasn't trembling despite being wet in blood. He grabbed Tsunade by her forearms – Why did you do this? – Tsunade looked directly at his eyes – That bastard! I will kill him! Next time I see Orochimaru, I will kill him with my own hands! – Surely, Orochimaru was related to what he saw in Nono's journal. He could only imagine how hard it should've been for her to see those pictures. He hugged her and held her tight. He placed his hand on her head and comforted her – it'll be all right, Tsuna. I promise. You will be all right – Tsunade broke. Her anger turned into sorrow, and she started crying like a wounded animal. She collapsed on her knees, and Jiraiya sat on the floor with her, still hugging her. He took a piece of his vest and started cleaning all the blood from her body – how could he do that with Nawaki? He looked up to him! Do you remember? – asked Tsunade, sobbing – I do. I was always jealous of Orochimaru because of that – commented the toad sennin – He even stormed into a war council meeting when he found out that Orochimaru hadn't been assigned as his sensei after graduating from the academy. He called Sarutobi-sensei an old jerk in front of all the clan's heads, and the advisors – the blonde woman continued. Jiraiya chuckled. He remembered that. Nawaki brought joy and happiness wherever he was, even during dark times like the Second Great War. Instead of taking that action as an insult, everyone laughed at his behavior. Even the always cranky Homura and Koharu couldn't help but burst into laughs. Tsunade couldn't stop crying – Why would he do such awful things with him? Nawaki was just a genin. He wasn't supposed to be on the front lines. He sneaked into the front lines just to be with Orochimaru. Orochimaru promised he would look after him when he discovered him. I trusted him. I know his death is not Orochimaru's fault, but what he did with my little brother, he … - Tsunade couldn't continue talking – It's OK Tsuna. Everything will be all right. – They stayed there until Shizune arrived and found them in the lab.
– Tsunade-sama! What happened? – Jiraiya raised his hand to ease Shizune – everything is OK, Shizune. I've got it – he took Tsunade in his arms and stood up. She clung to his neck, keeping her face hidden from Shizune. Jiraiya walked toward the stairs where Shizune was standing – Could you please clean all this mess, Shizune? When you're done, please prepare tea with something to help Tsunade find some sleep – Shizune nodded as Jiraiya went up the stairs and took Tsunade to her room. Jiraiya still found it hard to believe Tsunade went to these extremes to overcome her hemophobia. Her determination to kill Orochimaru was too intense.
Jiraiya entered Tsunade's room and placed her on her bed. Walking into the room, he saw a small table full of pictures. He saw a photo of her being carried by her grandfather and grandmother beside them. Another one with her parents and little brother. A picture of Dan. And two photos from team 1 (Hiruzen's team). One from the day the team was formed with their sensei, and the other from the day they all became jounin – You need to rest, Tsuna. Shizune will be back with a tea that'll help you sleep – Jiraiya touched her face gently and stood up, ready to leave the room, when he felt Tsunade grabbing his arm – don't leave, please. Stay with me. I don't want to be alone – Jiraiya considered making a joke to smooth the mood for a moment but decided against it. He just nodded and sat on the floor next to Tsunade's futon – I think I've never told you how thankful I am for having you in my life, Jiraiya – Tsunade said, blushing. Jiraiya didn't expect that, but he was glad to hear it. He smiled at her – not with words, no. But I know our bond means a lot to you, Tsuna – she smiled. Tsuna. All day, Jiraiya had been calling her Tsuna. No one had called her that way since she last saw her grandmother. It felt oddly recomforting hearing Jiraiya calling her Tsuna.
Shizune entered the room with a cup of tea. She had added a somniferous to give Tsunade a dreamless sleep. She didn't want her to have nightmares. She still didn't know why she was like this, but surely it was nothing good. Before drinking the tea, Tsunade asked Jiraiya to stay with her in her sleep, to which he agreed. Once Tsunade was deeply asleep, he asked Shizune to bring all the documents from Tsunade's studio. He decided to tell Shizune to read all the documents Tsunade was supposed to examine. He would continue reading the mission reports. They spent the entire night and part of the morning reading the documents. Unfortunately, some stuff from Orochimaru's and Nono's research was beyond Shizune's abilities. Tsunade would have to go through them later. However, she examined it and removed all the pictures of Nawaki's body from the files so Tsunade wouldn't have to see them again. This was surely more than enough to take down Danzo for treason.
The somniferous that Shizune gave Tsunade was too strong. She slept through all the morning. Shizune left to take some sleep around 9:00 a.m. It was almost noon when she woke up, and Jiraiya had just fallen asleep. He hadn't slept in days spying on the root. When she finally woke up, she felt joy seeing Jiraiya sitting beside her futon. He was sleeping. She felt sorry for him. It must be uncomfortable to sleep sitting on the floor. She looked around and sat back. She stared at Jiraiya, and in the background, she could see her grandmother's portrait. She then remembered those words she said after Dan's death. The position of the portrait gave her the impression that her grandmother was smiling at her and looking at Jiraiya at the same time. She smiled and blushed momentarily – is this what you meant, grandma? I think I can finally see what you it – she said in a very low voice. She shook Jiraiya to wake him up. He woke up alarmed, thinking something must've happened – are you all right? Is everything OK? I'm an idiot! I fell asleep when I was supposed to look after you! – Jiraiya continued apologizing for falling asleep. Meanwhile, Tsunade couldn't stop smiling at him. Something he found extremely disturbing – Why are you looking at me like that, Tsuna? You're freaking me out! – The smile immediately turned into an angry face – You are a fool as always! But, … I appreciate you staying with me all night. You should take a nap while I prepare you something for breakfast – Tsunade stood up, and Jiraiya was speechless. Tsunade? Preparing breakfast for him? Whatever drug Shizune gave her must've messed up with her mind.
During breakfast, Shizune and Jiraiya briefed Tsunade about everything they had found in Nono's documents. Tsunade read the research Shizune hadn't been able to decipher. She was utterly astonished. That freak bastard had achieved it! What he had accomplished was beyond Sarutobi-sensei's expectations in the research before he shut it down years ago – We need to take this to Minato and Sarutobi-sensei, Jiraiya. We have what we need to take the root down – After reading everything and listening to what Shizune and Jiraiya had found, Tsunade understood that Nono did what she did, tricked and fooled by Danzo and Orochimaru, and because she believed it was for Konoha's sake. Despite how painful it was for her, their immoral practice had paid off. It was almost twilight again when Shizune and Jiraiya had briefed Tsunade about everything, and she had read the research. They went to the Hokage Tower to inform them of their findings to take action against the root as soon as possible.
Root Headquarters: The following day
The Root Headquarters were located underground. It consisted of a series of tunnels connecting the HQ's different sections, such as the training grounds, storage room, torture chambers, and conditioning rooms, among others. There were several entrances to the HQ throughout the village. The complex was located near the Hokage mountain.
Danzo was walking through one of the halls accompanied by Tatsuma Aburame, his most trustworthy shinobi. Danzo's walk was slow while he was using his cane. Even among his recruits, he maintained the façade of his weakness – Have we heard anything from Nono yet? – the old man asked. It had been two weeks since she had left the village for her mission. He knew the chances of her succeeding in the infiltration were low, but the future of Konoha depended on her success – Nothing, Danzo-sama. Perhaps I should join the mission as well, with the two of us – before Tatsuma could continue, he was interrupted by his leader – Nonsense. Nono's is a suicide mission. I can afford to lose Nono, but the Root needs you. The time for you to sacrifice for the tree's survival will come eventually. It would be foolish to send you there, too – Tatsuma wasn't entirely sure about it. He didn't trust Nono. She had been out of service for too long. She went soft in these years looking after those orphans – What are your thoughts regarding Orochimaru? Do you think he was involved in the Kyubi incident? – Danzo had stayed in contact with Orochimaru to continue his treatment even after leaving the village. Tatsuma had been his partner in the root, and Orochimaru only accepted him as the point of contact. The snake sannin wasn't easy to track down. He could only be found if he wanted to be found. Ever since the revelation of the presence of Madara, and after the Root found THAT, Danzo had been suspecting Orochimaru was working with Madara. After a long wait a few days earlier, Tatsuma had finally reached the Snake Sannin. Danzo sent him to determine if he had been involved in the attack. If that was the case, the snake had to die. Danzo saw Orochimaru as a great ally to achieve his goals, but Konoha's safety came first. They had been working together, helping each other. That relationship had worked for years because the sannin never betrayed Konoha, attacked it, or revealed its secrets after he left. If that had changed, he needed to eradicate him. Orochimaru working with Madara would mean the destruction of Konoha without a doubt.
FLASHBACK: OUTSKIRTS OF KONOHA, A FEW HOURS AFTER THE KYUBI ATTACK.
Danzo, accompanied by a large group of root members, arrived at the place where Minato had fought Madara. The shinobis with him were mainly from the Inuzuka clan, accompanied by their dogs, and from the Aburame clan. They were the best trackers in Konoha. They found a massive crater in the middle of the area. This was the place, no doubt. This was the mark of the aftermath of the Rasengan – All of you. Find a trace that doesn't belong to Minato. Identify it and track it down. Inspect the area for specks of blood, sweat, clothes or anything we can use to track that bastard down – Danzo commanded with the authority that distinguished him. The ANBU dispersed in the area, looking for anything they could use to track down the masked man who attacked the village. Soon after that, Tatsuma called – Danzo-sama! Over here! You need to see this – Danzo and the other ANBU approached the site where Tatsuma was standing. When Danzo got there, he was baffled by what he saw. There was a white hand and a portion of the forearm in the ground – This can't be! How is it even possible? – The ANBUs were shocked. Seeing Danzo show any sign of surprise or worry was not common. Tatsuma lifted the arm and handed it over to Danzo, who examined it with awe – Danzo-sama. This looks very similar to your right arm. Does it mean that Orochimaru is working with this man? – Danzo was still stunned by the arm. It took him one moment before he could process what Tatsuma had said. His expression hardened and seemed furious – Tatsuma, go and find Orochimaru. Don't dare to come back without talking with him. Don't let him suspect anything and say nothing about this arm. Find out if he was involved in this. If that snake had betrayed us, we'd have to eliminate him – Tatsuma nodded – Hai, Danzo-sama! – and then he disappeared.
Danzo kept looking at the arm as a child who stared at something completely new. The rest of the ANBU stayed there, perplexed. Waiting for their leader to command them – This is an artificial arm made of the First Hokage cells. It has no blood vessels, nerves, muscles, or tendons. It is pure matter. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a scent either. However, it was attached to that man surgically. It had been attached to him, so it must have subtle scents from the man, his clothes, or something. All of you inspect this arm and try to find a trace you can track – Danzo placed the arm on top of the rock where Tatsuma had picked it up. He didn't want his essence to mix with Madara's and lose their little hope of tracking him down. Each ANBU member looked at the arm one by one to find a trace. Most of the Inuzuka members and their dogs were able to find a trace that didn't belong to Minato. Same for the Aburame clan. Their insects had found a chakra signature that didn't belong to Minato – This man possesses a time-space jutsu. It is most likely that the trace will disappear abruptly. Search the entire Land of Fire to find the trace again, and go to the other nations if needed. If you do find him, do not try to engage him. Inform me of the location. None of you, not even all together, are a match against him. Tera! You stay here, the rest of you, go now! –The ANBUs nodded and left to start their hunt – Tera, take this arm to Magire. Tell him it is the top priority. He must examine this arm. I want a report ASAP – Danzo couldn't stop thinking about that arm. Nono would be the best to examine it. She worked with Orochimaru in this research, after all. However, with the hospital overflowing with people, it would raise suspicions to take the head of the hospital from her duties during this emergency. Magire was the best medical shinobi the root had since Nono left. The ANBU took the arm and left for the lab – How reckless you were, Minato. Leaving this crucial piece forgotten was a rookie mistake – the man cursed as he walked away from the scene. He had to go back to his HQ.
END OF FLASHBACK
– Orochimaru is not easy to read, Danzo-sama. He didn't show any sign he knew who was behind the attack. He seemed to be surprised by Fugaku's appointment as the new advisor. He was expecting the blame for the attack to be put on him. However, he seemed disappointed Minato and Hiruzen didn't die in the attack. It looked almost as if that was his goal. At this moment, I can't say for sure if he was involved in this or not. But if I had to guess, I would say it is time for the root to break our relationship with him – Danzo pondered the information for a while. Tatsuma's input was always helpful in his decision-making within the root – for the moment, we'll keep things as they are. From now on, whenever you meet with him, you need to get as much information from him as possible. If he is working with Madara, we could use him to lead us to him – Tatsuma seemed to agree. Tatsuma had just returned from his search for Orochimaru. He was still unaware of everything that had happened in his absence – Did Magire have any luck with the arm? – questioned the Aburame – He confirmed that the arm is made of Hashirama's cells. However, that arm is more advanced than mine. Luckily for us, Nono came to me asking for a mission to get back her son. I had her examine it as well. It took her weeks, but in the end, she could activate the arm. When it reacted to the chakra she injected into it, it produced Mokuton – Tatsuma was shocked. Orochimaru had indeed been able to replicate the Mokuton in that child. However, he was unaware of this since they've kept Kinoe hidden from everyone so far. Even from Orochimaru. Danzo-sama wanted to get the Mokuton for himself. That's why Orochimaru and Nono had been working on that research with his right arm. It had been fruitless so far. It had allowed Danzo to artificially implant Kagami's left eye and his son's eyes in his right arm, but it hadn't been able to use Mokuton yet – She created a crop with the cells of that white arm. It should multiply. I'll replace my right arm with these new cells when we have enough of them. I would finally get the power to control the Kyubi and then get rid of Minato and Hiruzen to become Hokage – Danzo's speech was interrupted by the arrival of a young shinobi. It was a boy, maybe 13-14 years old. He had copper hair tied in a short ponytail. Bandages completely covered his eyes, and he wore a dark, bluish ANBU uniform. His sandals were different; the ball and heel of his feet were exposed – What is it, Kessho? – Tatsuma asked the young boy – Danzo-sama, The Yondaime is here. He is about to enter the building. His wife stayed on top of the building while the Yondaime and the others were getting inside – Hmpf, So he decided to show up before his deadline. I was expecting that. Tatsuma, gather everyone on the main bridge to receive the Yondaime. I'll join you shortly – Tatsuma and Kessho disappeared. Danzo resumed his slow walk, this time in a different direction. He was heading to the bridge.
Root Headquarters: Main Bridge
Minato was standing in the middle of the main bridge connecting all the root HQ tunnels. His advisors, Fugaku and Hiashi, stood to his left and Hiruzen, Jiraiya and Tsunade to his right. Behind them stood Shikaku, flanked by Shibi and Hizashi. A small army of ANBU was there, too, standing all over the place on the different bridges from the underground base. Kushina had stayed on top of the building and created a barrier around the entire complex to prevent any root member from escaping and the people outside from sensing what was happening in case a fight started between both sides.
In front of them stood Tatsuma Aburame, and behind him, all the root members who were present in the building. The "total" of 48 shinobis were there. Only Danzo was missing. None of the root members kneeled before Minato, despite it being part of the code of the ANBU to kneel before the Hokage. However, they didn't take orders from Minato. They would only kneel before Danzo-sama. Tatsuma noticed that the Hyuga twins had their byakugan activated – What are you doing here? The date you established for the root to submit before you isn't until next week – Tatsuma asked Minato, consciously omitting his titles. Minato knew it was just intending to bother and disrespect him – The Hokage does not need to explain. He is entitled to change the date as he pleases without notification, and you, as shinobis of Konoha, must comply – Hiashi scolded Tatsuma, who replied with a chuckle – Where is your master, Tatsuma? – Fugaku demanded. Before he could answer, the echo of Danzo's cane could be heard from the tunnel behind Tatsuma. The sound got louder and louder until the old war hawk emerged from the darkness of the tunnel. The root members stood aside to let their leader walk by and kneeled before him. Only Tatsuma remained standing, and Danzo joined him.
– It is considered bad manners to enter someone else's house without an invitation or announcement, Minato. But do tell me, what can we do for you today? – the old man asked – We are here to meet all your shinobis, Danzo. Would you mind if we started with the four children under your tutelage? – as you wish. Yoji, Kessho, Kaede, and Kinoe, come forth – Danzo ordered, and four young shinobis stood between Danzo and Minato. Kinoe was the child that had survived Orochimaru's experiments and possessed the Mokuton. Sending him away was too risky. He was confident the boy would pass unnoticed. There was no reason for them to suspect about his kekkei genkai. Minato got closer to them – Why don't you tell me your name, age and abilities? Let's start with you – said Minato, pointing to a boy with dark glasses. Shibi knew this boy. He was from his clan. He was left mute after his father had attacked him out of jealousy of his talent. Yoji had killed his father in self-defense. He had allowed Danzo to recruit him for the root since the child had suffered severe psychological trauma. Shibi got closer to Minato. He would speak on this child's behalf as he was mute – Yondaime-sama, this is … – however, before Shibi could say his name. The boy spoke – My name is Yoji Aburame. I'm eleven years old – Shibi, a serious man, was astonished. This caught Minato's interest – why are you so surprised, Shibi-san? – asked Minato, intrigued – I know this boy, Hokage-sama. He is from my clan. He was attacked by his father two years ago. He cut his throat, but the cut was not deep enough to kill him. However, he lost his voice. I don't know how, but he was mute when Danzo-sama recruited him two years ago. I can't believe it – Danzo smirked. This was surely something extraordinary. What had Danzo done to allow this boy to speak again? Tsunade stood forward, intending to examine the boy. However, she stopped when she heard Danzo hit his cane on the floor – stay right there, Tsunade-hime. You can examine the boy if you want, but that'll be after Minato has finished talking with the four of them. That'd save us some time – Tsunade hesitated. She was not willing to take orders from Danzo. However, Minato nodded, and she had no option but to stay put.
Minato continued with the next child, Kessho – My name is Kessho Yamanaka. I'm thirteen years old. I'm a sensor shinobi – Minato looked at the boy. He was intrigued again. He had his eyes completely covered. However, he had managed to move freely in the building – why do you have your eyes covered, Kessho-kun? – The boy was about to speak, but again, Danzo hit his cane on the floor – It is pointless to give them an explanation, Kessho. Remove your bandages and show them – the boy nodded. He started to remove his bandages, and when he had finished, he opened his eyes. To everyone's surprise, the boy was blind. Danzo noticed the surprise in everyone and talked – He is one of the best sensors I have ever seen. I'm sure that in no time, Kessho would match, maybe even surpass, the Nidaime Hokage in sensory abilities. He is also a great fighter and an expert in futon and doton – Hiruzen was shocked. That boy must be seriously talented in sensory for Danzo to compare him with Tobirama-sensei. Tobirama was the only shinobi Danzo had ever looked up to – tell me, boy. How can you fight and move around being blind? – Minato asked – Kessho lifted his left foot to show the sole of his sandals. Everyone noticed his had open areas. But before he could explain how he could be a shinobi, even being blind, he was interrupted by Danzo's cane sound – I told you, Minato. It would save us time if you go through the four of them first. Then, we can explain how these cripple children are fine shinobis – Minato knew making the children talk without Danzo's permission was pointless. He continued with the next one. It was a girl – My name is Kaede Shiragaki. I'm thirteen years old, and I … – Before she could finish Tsunade, Jiraiya and Hiruzen reacted in a way none of them was expecting – That's impossible! The Shiragaki Clan is extinct. The last member of the clan was … – Tsunade couldn't finish talking – That's right, Tsunade-hime. The last known member of the clan was your old friend Hiruko. However, you know what kind of experimentation he conducted. Kaede is one of the subjects of experimentation of Hiruko. I'll explain further once we're done with the fourth child – Minato and the others didn't understand what it meant. They didn't remember any Hiruko in the village nor the name of the Shiragaki clan. However, the sannin and the former Hokage seemed distressed by this girl. The next one's name was Kinoe, according to Nono's files. He was the result of Orochimaru's experimentation with Hashirama's cell. The heir of the mokuton style – what about you, child? What is unique in you? – Minato got closer to Kinoe – My name is Kinoe. I'm an orphan from the land of fire. I was rescued by Danzo-sama three years ago when I was seven years old.
– I think we can now explain everything related to these children. Kinoe is a talented shinobi. I would say he is as gifted as your pupil Kakashi, Minato. However, besides being the only survivor from his village, he has nothing outstanding. Tatsuma and I taught Yoji how to use the insects inside his body to vibrate in a certain way to produce a "voice." He is mute, as Shibi told you. The voice you hear is only the sound produced by the vibration of the insects. His talent is comparable to Tatsuma's – Tsunade approached the boy and examined his vocal cords and throat. He was indeed mute. It was impressive how this boy had managed to recover his voice. She hated Danzo, but she had to admit that what he did with this boy was remarkable. She then proceeded to examine Kessho. Just like with Yoji, his condition had no cure. Perhaps if the boy had had treatment when he started losing his sight, she might have been able to save his eyes – Kessho, as I told you before, is exceptionally talented with doton and futon. He uses his doton to create shockwaves through his feet. With these shockwaves, he can map the area he is surrounded by. Similarly, with his futon, he creates subtle sound waves. You could say he is a living radar. That, in addition to his sensory abilities, makes him a lethal threat – Minato got closer to Kessho and placed his hand on his shoulder – You are indeed an extraordinary shinobi, Kessho-kun – by Minato's surprise. The boy didn't take Minato's praise well. He shook Minato's hand away and stepped back from him – Don't take it personally, Minato. It is just that the boy was told by the teachers in your academy that he could never be a shinobi. That he had no hope of being useful for Konoha, and didn't allow him to enlist in the academy. You sure understand his resentment towards you, right? – Danzo smirked. Minato had to admit that he would've told him the same if he had been in the academy. Danzo had proven to have a unique talent for finding broken children and turning them into lethal weapons – As for Kaede; she is not really a member of the Shiragaki clan. She was abducted by Hiruko to be used as a guinea pig. She didn't get the Chimera Technique Hiruko was developing. However, she developed four chakra affinities, and her chakra reserves compare to a Jounin level even at her young age. Katon is the only element she can't use. She is proficient in elemental jutsu. Hiruzen ordered the sannin to hunt and annihilate Hiruko and ordered the ANBU and the root to destroy his labs. I found Kaede in one of his labs and kept her. I trained her and found out about her abilities – Tsunade, Jiraiya and Hiruzen felt sorry for that child. She had a similar story to Kinoe's. Both of them were tortured and treated as lab rats. They deserved better.
– Despite what you may think, most of the root members have similar stories to theirs. Outcast, cripple children who were told they were not enough for the village. You and Hiruzen rejected several of these shinobis from the academy due to a disability. You two are too blind to see beyond the limitations of a broken body. I, on the other hand, know that broken souls once put together and when given a purpose, become the most exceptional shinobis. That purpose is protecting Konoha. You have the nerve to come here and demand loyalty from them when you rejected them before. Good luck with that – Danzo had a point. It seemed that he was telling the truth. He surely had kidnapped several talented shinobis. But he had also gathered all of those who had been rejected and gave them the purpose of protecting the village with their lives. No wonder they had such blind trust in the old man. However, that didn't change the fact he had committed several crimes – I must admit that what you've done with them is impressive, Danzo-san. However, you are still keeping things from me. Kinoe-kun, please, show me your Mokuton style – Minato's words took Danzo and Tatsuma by surprise. Minato took advantage of the moment of confusion and used his hiraishin to get close to Danzo. He placed his right hand on Danzo's chest, and a seal formed on his body. The seal extended through his chest up to his neck, all the way to his face and finally to his right eye. In the same way, the seal extended all over Danzo's right arm.
Tatsuma and all the members from the root took their kunai out, ready to fight. They would defend Danzo even if they died – You fools! Lower your weapons! – Fugaku was the most surprised by this. He was getting ready to fight. He didn't expect Danzo to order his subordinates to surrender – There is no point in fighting them. That would only weaken Konoha, and with the threat of that man, we can't let that happen – Danzo knew he stood no chance against them. It was pointless trying to fight. But how? How could they possibly know about Kinoe's Mokuton? Not only that. Minato's seal specifically covered his right eye and arm. They knew. How could they know? – How did you know about Kinoe's Mokuton? – asked Danzo. He could feel his chakra being suppressed. He wouldn't be able to activate his sharingans even if he wanted to – we'll have a long conversation, Danzo-san. Take us to your private chambers. Tatsuma-san, you'll come with us too – Minato had stepped back – Hizashi-san, Shibi-san, stay here with the ANBU. Make sure no one leaves or tries anything.
Danzo, Minato and the others went to Danzo's office. It resembled the Hokage's office but without the windows. It was located on the deepest level of the underground base. Danzo was heading to his desk but was stopped by Fugaku, who grabbed him by the left arm. Tatsuma reacted and pulled his kunai – I've told you not to fight them, Tatsuma. What do you want, Uchiha? – Tatsuma lowered his kunai – You seem to think that's still your seat, Danzo – Danzo understood what he meant. Minato passed him by and sat on his chair – Take a seat, Danzo-san – Minato commented. He sat. Next to him, his former teammate sat. The rest of the people remained standing – First of all, I want you to remove your bandages from your face and arm – Minato's voice was full of authority. Danzo knew there was no point in arguing or denying anything. It was evident that they knew what was under his bandages. He did as was told. A crimson red eye with three tomoes could be seen in his right eye. His right arm was completely white. Unnatural. Implanted on his arm, there were three red eyes. Kagami's left eye was in the back of his hand. Kagami's son's were placed one next to the other on his forearm. Fugaku was raging. Hiashi, on the other hand, was disgusted by the old man. Hiruzen, as soft as always, looked disappointed in his old friend.
– would you mind telling us how you got these sharingans and that arm? – Minato asked. Danzo smirked – These eyes were a waste in Kagami. His ocular jutsu is the strongest among the Uchihas. Instead of using it in Konoha's favor, he kept it hidden, even from Hiruzen – Hiruzen and Fugaku were surprised by this. What was he talking about? He could tell by Fugaku's expression he didn't know either. Danzo laughed. Something completely odd for them to witness – So not even you, his pupil, knew about Kagami's mangekyou sharingan ability, eh? I'm not surprised. Even Kagami knew you were not trustworthy. I hated the man, but he was loyal to Konoha. However, he was just as passive as Hiruzen. Kagami possessed the Kotoamatsukami – That's impossible. That jutsu hasn't been awakened by any Uchiha since ancient times – Fugaku replied. Only Hiruzen and Fugaku knew what Danzo was talking about. Fugaku explained to them how that jutsu worked – Why would Kagami-sensei keep that from me or the Sandaime? – Fugaku was still trying to process the existence of such powerful genjutsu – I didn't know about it either until I stole his eyes. I had a member of the Yamanaka clan from the root examine his memories to discover everything about his eye abilities. That's when I found out. And as for why he didn't tell you anything, you know very well why. But let me tell the others. Kagami knew the Uchiha's contempt against the village was growing. He feared, sooner or later, a coup d'état would be the only solution for them to obtain control of the village. If you or anyone from your clan had known about his jutsu, you would've forced him to use it on Hiruzen. The same way around. He feared that if Hiruzen or I knew about it, we would've forced him to use it on you to calm down your clan – Fugaku said nothing to defend himself. He couldn't deny that in recent years, some members of his clan had suggested a coup d'état. His new position as advisor had erased such ideas from his clan.
– Kagami's son found out I had killed his father, and I had no other option but to kill him as well – said Danzo casually – As for my arm. It is a result of an investigation of Hashirama's cells – Minato and the others had expected more resistance from Danzo. It was odd he was giving away the information so easily. Tsunade had been trying so hard to remain calm all this time, but she had had enough – Cut all the crap, you bastard geezer! We know you've been working with Orochimaru all these years, even after he left the village. You helped him with this inhuman research and to kill dozens of children. And you dared to profane my family graves to get Senju DNA for your tests! You experimented with my little brother's body – Tsunade took Danzo by his robes and lifted him easily from his chair. The old man didn't even flinch. He remained as calm as ever – Tsunade-sama! Please, calm down! We'll get to the bottom of this! I promised you that! Let us continue – Minato could only imagine what she was going through. They had found out that Orochimaru, Danzo and Nono had been collecting DNA from any direct relative of the first Hokage. Orochimaru had gathered several samples of her blood during the second war. They drained out Nawaki's body. They had extracted all the blood from his body. They had also profaned Hashirama's, Tobirama's and Morimaru's graves to collect DNA from their spine cord since their bodies were far too decomposed to collect blood. All these samples were recovered by Danzo and the root when Orochimaru was forced to flee the village. That's how Nono had her blood for the sealing jutsus she used for the documents. Jiraiya approached Tsunade and held her by her shoulders. She calmed down and let go of Danzo.
– You should be proud of your brother instead of whining about it. He was a vital part of the success of the experiment. It is thanks to Nawaki that Kinoe's Mokuton was possible – Tsunade and the others knew what he meant. Orochimaru had implanted Hashirama's cells in 70 children in total. Different combinations of serums were used by him. Some of them had only Hashirama cells; others had a combination of Hashirama cells with the cells of his relatives. Kinoe, the only survivor from Orochimaru's experiments, had a serum mixed with Hashirama and Nawaki cells. Only Nawaki DNA had been able to replicate the Mokuton – Even in his death, your brother helped Konoha more than you have – Tsunade was furious – How can you live with it? You sacrificed the lives of dozens of children! Just because you were obsessed with my grandfather's kekkei genkai – Danzo frowned – Those were needed sacrifices for Konoha's welfare. The Mokuton can tame the Bijus. Having a shinobi with this kekkei genkai will secure Konoha's safety in the case of another event, such as the one from the kyubi. You come here with high morals, questioning me about all the lives I sacrificed for this. But tell me, Tsunade-hime. How many lives have been lost because of your incompetence? – You bastard! Needed sacrifices? What can you possibly know about sacrifices? You are a selfish old man! – Danzo seemed to be upset. It was this time the former Hokage who tried to calm Tsunade down – Tsunade, calm down. You are talking about things you don't comprehend – Tsunade stared at her sensei, aghast. After all this, he was still defending Danzo. How could he? He was about to yell at her sensei when Danzo spoke – I know plenty about sacrifice, you little spoiled brat! My son's blood is in your hands! – Tsunade and the rest were speechless. Danzo had a son? No way! And why would he say his blood is in Tsunade's hands? Danzo stood up and faced Tsunade. She gave one step back. The old war hawk was unrecognizable. She hadn't seen him like this ever before. Hiruzen sighed – That's enough, Danzo, Tsunade. I told you that you were talking about things you didn't comprehend, Tsunade, but you didn't listen – the old man rubbed his forehead and sighed again.
– You know very well, Tsunade, that the experiment was Tobirama's-sensei plan originally. He thought Konoha needed to keep the Mokuton alive. When Hashirama-sama died, he asked Mito-sama and Morimaru-san for their permission to collect blood from his body to experiment in the future to secure the Mokuton. According to Tobirama-sensei, Hashirama-sama was around fourteen when he first awakened the Mokuton. Tobirama-sensei didn't start the experiment because he was waiting for you to turn 14 and see if you also had the mokuton. He died before that, and when I became Hokage, I was reluctant to perform the experiment. I kept the blood samples sealed away for years – the old man sighed. He took a deep breath and continued – It wasn't until years later that I gave the green light for the experiment. It was Orochimaru who convinced me. We found volunteers for the experiment. Shinobis from different ages, from genin to jounin. All of them were eager to participate in the experiment, hoping to get the Mokuton. Yasashi, Danzo's son, was one of them. He was too young. He had just become a chunin. Hashirama's-sama cells proved to be too strong for any shinobi to withstand. They all died, Yasashi included. I canceled the experiment. Danzo and Orochimaru came to me. They wanted to continue. Orochimaru said that if we used children instead of adults, the adaptation process to the cells would be smoother. After what I saw, I wouldn't let children be used as guinea pigs. I myself destroyed the labs where Orochimaru was conducting the experiment, all the records, and all the remnants of Hashirama's-sama blood samples. That way, I could be certain they couldn't continue with it on my back. I never thought Orochimaru would go so far as to profane graves to continue his research.
Tsunade, for the first time, felt sorry for Danzo. Losing a child must be an unbearable pain. Was that what turned him into this cold-hearted man? Still, she couldn't understand why he would say Yasashi's blood was in her hands. Her sensei proceeded with the story – Danzo wanted to continue the research because he didn't want Yasashi's death to be in vain. We had an intense argument back then. After that altercation, Danzo started to act on my back. At that moment, he was the official leader of the ANBU. When they didn't agree to help him continue his research on my back, he quit his position as head of the ANBU and formed the root. I knew he couldn't continue the research without Hashirama's cell, so I let him form the root and act freely. Over time, I gave him too much freedom, and we ended up with this situation – that explains why Danzo resented Hiruzen so much. They had always thought it was because Tobirama had named Hiruzen and not him as his successor. Jiraiya was the first one to speak – I remember Yasashi. He was one of the genin from Sakumo's team. I didn't know he was your son. But why do you blame Tsunade for his death, huh?
Danzo turned his gaze to Jiraiya, then to Tsunade – That woman is a failure. The best medical shinobi in the world, and yet, she hasn't practiced medicine for over 20 years just because her beloved fiancé died and now gets scared at the sight of blood. She was still a proficient medical shinobi when we started the experiment. Orochimaru tried to convince her to be part of it. Having her looking after the patients would have been beneficial for us. However, she refused. She said she didn't want to do anything related to that. Tell me, Tsunade. How many lives would have been saved if you hadn't been such a prick and decided to help us back then? How many lives have been lost because you are a coward and turned your back on Konoha? How many lives have been lost because of you? I can tell you that my son's life was one of them – Tsunade understood now why he hated her so much. She didn't reply. Danzo was right. Countless lives had been lost during the last two wars because she was a coward. She remembered declining Orochimaru's offer to work with him on that project. She found it creepy to work with his grandfather's cells trying to replicate his kekkei genkai. Her personal feelings had gotten in her way as a medical shinobi. Hiruzen said nothing, but he felt responsible as well. Orochimaru and Danzo asked him to force Tsunade to work with them back then. But Tsunade was like a daughter for him. He wouldn't have ever forced her to do something like that. That was the same reason he allowed her to leave the village and stop practicing the medical jutsu.
– You may think whatever you want. But all these sacrifices paid off. Kinoe is the future of Konoha. With him, the jinchurikis from the other villages won't be a threat to us. We may have been able to achieve it years ago if we had had Tsunade as part of our research team – Before Danzo could continue, he was interrupted by Jiraiya – You claim you did all this for Konoha, yet you kept Kinoe hidden from Minato and Sarutobi-sensei. What benefit comes for Konoha with your right arm? You were trying to get the Mokuton for yourself. You thought the Mokuton would be enough for you to get rid of them and become Hokage? Besides, Orochimaru's work wasn't only for the Mokuton. He was developing an immortality jutsu. You two were working together on that as well, weren't you? – Jiraiya took the opportunity. Danzo had been giving information away so easily that it could be the moment to make him confess his involvement in Orochimaru's search for immortality. Surely, what they did to get the Mokuton would be considered perverse by many. However, they succeeded. Minato, Shikaku and Hiruzen thought Danzo's part in this wouldn't be enough to get the support of all the villagers against him since, in the end, they successfully provided the Mokuton to Konoha again. Orochimaru had also killed nearly one hundred shinobis for his experimentation on immortality. They hadn't found any information about that in Nono's reports. Shikaku's theory was that Orochimaru was working on that jutsu by himself. If they could prove Danzo was part of that as well, he would be doomed. Danzo frowned as someone who tasted something disgusting – Immortality? I already survived my son. I have no intention of living forever. I would gladly die but will die protecting as a shinobi of Konoha. I will protect the tree with my dying breath. Orochimaru conducted that research for immortality on his own. I won't deny I was aware of it, but the root never helped him with that – Jiraiya and Tsunade were about to reply, but Tatsuma talked first – All of you may disapprove of the way Danzo-sama and the root handle things. You may even disgust it. However, Konoha can't survive without the root. Danzo-sama has dealt with the darkness of the village for decades. Neither Hiruzen nor Minato have the guts to do what needs to be done for Konoha's survival. They are too soft. Our methods might be questionable, but our goal has always been protecting the tree. Hiruzen and Minato are indeed the stronger shinobis in the village and among the five great nations. However, leading a village is not only about strength and power. Even that pervert of Jiraiya would make a more decent work as Hokage than Minato … – Tatsuma couldn't continue because Jiraiya interrupted him. He wouldn't let anyone insult his sensei and student – You are a prick, Tatsuma! You spent much time with Orochimaru and have a twisted sense of reality. Sarutobi-sensei and Minato are the best that could have happened to Konoha. It is because of Sarutobi-sensei that the other nations have always had to team up to attack Konoha. They know in a one-on-one fight, they stand no chance against him. He won the three wars and defended the village for years. Minato has continued that legacy; he is the main reason Iwagakura surrendered, and he stopped the masked man – Danzo stood up and got closer to Jiraiya. He was smirking – I'll give you proof of how bad your pupil's work as Hokage has been – He then turned to Minato.
– Tell me, Minato. Aren't you, your wife and sensei the best shinobis among the five great nations in fuinjutsu? – What is he trying to do with this? Minato wondered – That's correct – replied Minato. Danzo smiled – Then, wouldn't you mind explaining why you were willing to die to seal the Kyubi when you are more than capable of sealing it on your own? You didn't need Hiruzen's help to seal the Kyubi. Truly, Kushina would've died without him, but why did you think sacrificing your own life unnecessarily was the best course of action? You could have just sealed the Kyubi on your son, and you would have survived. I find it hard to understand your reasoning, Minato – Danzo knew he would enjoy this. He realized by Shikaku's, Hiashi's and Fugaku's reactions that they didn't know all the details of what happened that day with Minato. Everyone stayed silent. Not even Jiraiya or Hiruzen tried to say something in Minato's defense. They had to admit they had been wondering the same thing. They never dared to ask Minato, but they couldn't understand why Minato was willing to use the Shiki Fujin when he could have used the eight trigrams seal on Naruto all by himself. Minato frowned, and then his expression relaxed. He seemed ashamed – You are right, Danzo-san. I was more than capable of sealing the Kyubi alone, but I wanted Naruto to know his mother. I was willing to die to seal a portion of Kushina's chakra inside Naruto. That way, eventually, he could talk to her at least once – Minato said while keeping his eyes low. He knew what Danzo would try to do, and he was right. Tsunade found it both romantic and stupid. Jiraiya knew Danzo would try to diminish Minato's authority with this, but he had no arguments to defend his student. He understood that for Minato, Kushina and Naruto were more important – How lovely! You were ready to doom Konoha because you wanted your son to talk with your wife ONCE! You do realize what the consequences would've been if you had succeeded, right? – Danzo asked. But he wouldn't let Minato respond – Let me explain to you, just to be sure. Not only would you've turned your son into an orphan, again, entirely unnecessarily, but you would also die without informing anyone about the masked man. You would've left us blindfolded against the most dangerous threat Konoha had ever faced. In addition to that, you would've caused Kagami's fear to come true. You cleared the names of Fugaku and Uchihas by confirming it wasn't an Uchiha who controlled the Kyubi that night. With you dead, Hiruzen, I, and most of the village would've blamed Fugaku and his clan. We all saw the Sharingan in the kyubi's eyes that night. The tensions with the Uchiha would've worsened, and sooner or later, it would have ended in a civil war in the village just because you wanted to give your wife a chance to talk with your son. How pathetic! You, as Hokage, have the responsibility to put Konoha above all, even your family. Even Hashirama and Hiruzen, as soft as they are, always put Konoha before their families. It is the fate of a Hokage to become an absent father. If you are unwilling to do it, free Konoha from your incompetence and step down – No one spoke. Danzo and Tatsuma were smiling. Fugaku had to give Danzo some credit. He had a way to break the will even of the strongest men in the village. He still couldn't believe Minato would've been so naïve as to be willing to die that way. Danzo was right; if he had died, things would've ended up pretty bad for his clan. Shikaku, the smartest man in the village, couldn't find a way to reply to Danzo and defend the Yondaime's actions. He, as a father and a husband, understood Minato. However, Danzo was on the right track. Minato was the Yondaime Hokage; his duty with the village came first.
– Looks like you lost your tongue, Minato. Tatsuma, bring THAT here. It looks like the Hokage and his advisors need more proof of his poor job – Tatsuma nodded and was about to leave the room but was stopped by Fugaku and Hiashi – You can't leave this room, Tatsuma-san. You and Danzo are being interrogated by the Hokage – Tatsuma laughed – You call this an interrogation? I would say it is a tea party. I thought it was clear already. We don't take orders from anyone other than Danzo-sama – Hiashi activated his byakugan and was ready to incapacitate Tatsuma – It's OK, Hiashi. Let him pass. Let them bring the arm – Minato had deduced that Danzo was talking about Madara's arm. Nono had included in her files Danzo had recovered it, and she had created a crop to multiply its cells. The arm was made of Hashirama cells, but that wasn't it. The arm was more ancient than that. According to Nono's files, the arm was at least one thousand years old based on the microscopic analysis she performed. It had been modified with the cells of the first Hokage a few years ago. She couldn't understand how that arm had been created. Who could have possibly developed such technology so many centuries ago? However, once again, Danzo was right. On the day of the attack, he was so worried about Kushina and Naruto that he completely forgot about Madara's arm. He had made a severe mistake. Tatsuma and Danzo were surprised to hear that. They knew about the arm. They knew he had it. There was only one person who could have told them all of this. Nono had betrayed him. Once her mission was over, he would kill her himself if she came back alive, of course – So you know about your neglect, Minato. I understand everything now. Nono told you about Kinoe, the research, and the arm. I suppose she also told you about the missions she was part of, and you are here to take me as a prisoner. Am I right? – Danzo laughed again – You should know by now the root will never be loyal to you. You need us. Yeah, it's true. Under your concept of what's right, I have committed several crimes, all of them to protect Konoha, of course. I even plotted the assassination of the Daimyo years ago once. That man is too incompetent and is easily influenced by the members of his court. They have limited Konoha's military growth because they fear the Hokage one day would try to replace the Daimyo as leader of the Land of Fire. How pathetic they are.
Minato and the others were perplexed. Why has Danzo been so cooperative so far? – Why are you giving away this information so easily, Danzo-san? – Minato asked. Danzo sat again and looked at Minato for a while before answering – It is true that under other circumstances, I may have shown more resistance. There is no point. You already know most of what I've done. Well, at least, all Nono knew. She left the Root for many years, so, who knows, maybe there is still plenty of stuff you don't know about us. Anyway, I know what that man is capable of. Only Hiruzen, Homura, Koharu, Oonoki, Chiyo, Ebizo and myself are old enough to remember the extent of his power. Konoha's annihilation is his goal, and I know I don't have the strength to defeat him. For Konoha's survival, it is vital that you and Hiruzen stay alive if we want to stand a chance against him. If he recovers his full powers, we are doomed – Minato and the rest didn't know how to take this. It was evident that Danzo had no remorse for his actions and all the deaths he caused. However, it was also true that he had been doing all this to protect the village. Having Danzo and the Root working with Konoha instead of fighting each other would absolutely increase their chances of success. However, he couldn't go unpunished for what he had done – Let me ask you something else, Minato. Did Nono tell you what her mission is? – Danzo wondered why they hadn't asked anything about her mission, given it was obvious she was their source. Minato and Tsunade were puzzled. They hadn't thought about it. Nono gave them a lot of information against Danzo, but now that they think about it, they didn't know what the mission was to leave the village – hmpf, I see. So, she still has a little sense of loyalty, after all. We used the arm of the masked man to track him down. My men looked for his lair all over the continent. We didn't find him but found two places where his scent was stronger. I would guess it is because he had spent a long time in these two. I figured we could not find his lair because he must have a barrier protecting it – Minato and the rest were shocked. They had been able to track down Madara and reduce his whereabouts to two different locations. The Root was efficient – so, what are those places? – Jiraiya asked. Danzo gave Tatsuma a signal. He had returned already with Madara's arm. He placed it on the desk for everyone to observe it. Tatsuma responded to Jiraiya's question – After weeks of tracking, we noticed that this man's tracks tend to go most of the time to two locations. The Land of the Woods, and the docks in the Land of Hot Water. We guess he may have several hideouts, or at least two. We believe one is on one of the islands in the Land of Water and the other somewhere in the Land of Woods. Both nations are enemies of Konoha. It is not an easy task to infiltrate and search for any lead. Since the creation of the ANBU by the Nidaime Hokage, part of their missions has been infiltrating enemy and ally villages. However, in all these years, we've never been able to infiltrate Kirigakure. Not the ANBU nor the Root has succeeded in this. We suspect he may have allied himself with Kirigakure. That could be the reason for Kirigakure's betrayal and the destruction of Uzushiogakure. We sent Nono to infiltrate Kirigakure. Hopefully, she'll make it in and get us some intel to confirm our theory – Tsunade was furious. But now that she thought about it. It made sense. The Uzumaki clan was as strong as the Senju or the Uchihas. If Madara's plan was to destroy Konoha, he also needed to get rid of the Uzumaki – You sent her to die! There is no way she'll survive on that mission! Not even when we were allies, we were welcome in Kirigakure. They don't accept foreigners in the Land of Water. There is no way she can make it.
Tatsuma and Danzo said nothing for a while – I don't really care if she dies. She is a shinobi of Konohagakure. She would die doing what she is supposed to do. Rather than waste her talent looking after a bunch of orphans – Danzo was coldhearted as always – I assumed you also came to the same conclusion as we did. The work behind that man's arm and my right arm, developed by Orochimaru and Nono, are quite similar. I can't help but wonder if that snake is working with him – Tsunade chuckled – Now you'll tell me you care about that? You have been working with him even as a rogue ninja – Danzo stared at her and replied – I have worked with him because it was beneficial for Konoha. Other than abducting and killing mediocre shinobis who were as useless when they were alive as now that they're dead, he hadn't done anything to betray Konoha. But if it turns out that he is helping the masked man in his mission to destroy Konoha, I will hunt him down. I don't need to tell you how bad the situation would be if that turned out to be the case. Those two men working together are far more dangerous than we can imagine.
– I have a proposal for you, Minato. Until that masked man is dead, the root will cooperate with you. Your lack of capability is outstanding. You will let us work as usual, and we'll report to you anything that's relevant related to that man. In exchange, you won't interfere with the rest of our missions, no questions asked – Minato was pondering the offer. He needed to discuss it further with the rest of them – For now, you and Tatsuma-san will come with me as prisoners. The council will deliberate on what will happen to you and the root. The ANBU will stay here, ensuring none of your shinobis leave the complex. As for the rest of the root members in your hideouts outside the village, I'll keep them tracked until a decision has been made – After that, Minato and the others took Danzo and Tatsuma to the Hokage Tower. Minato still wanted to keep it a secret. So they were locked down in the Hokage Tower instead of the prison. A suppressing seal was also placed on Tatsuma to prevent him from using his chakra. Shibi, Hizhashi and the ANBU stayed in the Root complex, guarding the other shinobis, except for Kinoe, whom Jiraiya and Tsunade took to the Senju Compound. Kushina lifted the barrier and left with Minato and the rest.
Hokage Tower: Council Room (following day at night)
Both councils were present in the room. Minato, Fugaku, Hiashi, Hiruzen, Homura and Koharu. Minato had summoned the elders to be present in Danzo's sentence – Why did you summon us here at this late hour, Minato? – Homura questioned. It wasn't common for Minato to hold a meeting in the night – I called you all here because we are about to read Danzo's-san sentence for his crimes against Konoha – Homura and Koharu were taken aback. They didn't expect this. Danzo was not present in the room. Only the six of them – What's the meaning of this, Minato? What proof do you have? You can't just point fingers and expect us to do nothing! Danzo is a war hero! – Minato looked at Koharu and frowned at her. His chakra burst, and she stayed silent – Everything will be explained to you shortly. Until then, stay quiet – Minato ordered. The elders gulped and said no other word.
A few moments later, Danzo and Tatsuma, handcuffed, entered the room. They were escorted by Jiraiya, Tsunade and Shikaku. Danzo and Tatsuma walked all the way to stand before the table where the council members were sitting. Jiraiya, Tsunade and Shikaku remained standing in the council room. Koharu and Homura noticed Danzo wasn't wearing his bandages. They could see the three sharingans on his right hand and another in his right eye. A seal covered his chest, face and right arm as well. How could this be possible? His arm was completely white. What kind of prosthetic arm was that? Both elders stood up – Danzo! What did you do? Where did you get those sharingans? Who do they belong to? – Koharu demanded an answer from her old friend, but he remained silent – Answer me, you old stubborn! – silence again. Minato asked the elders to sit down.
– As you can see, Danzo-san has acquired some sharingans in a non-orthodox way. He killed his former teammate Kagami Uchiha and his son – Koharu, and Homura gasped, surprised by the news – As a matter of fact, Homura-san. Danzo-san used his Sharingan years ago to trap you in a genjutsu, so you told him how to perform and break the seals from the Hokage's Vault. He stole some of the scrolls from the Shodaime, Nidaime and Sandaime Hokage – this was unbelievable – He used the scrolls from the Shodaime and Nidaime to continue the experiments to develop the Mokuton with Orochimaru – it was Homura who spoke this time – How could you do that? You are so obsessed with that kekkei genkai! Hiruzen told you it was a waste of time! I know you mourn Yashashi's death, but that's not reason enough, Danzo! You sacrificed so many lives in vain! – Koharu hit Homura with her elbow. He knew he had messed up. Yasashi's identity was only known by the six members of Tobirama's elite unit. Homura stuttered, trying to apologize to Danzo – It's OK, Homura. They know Yasashi was his son – Hiruzen said. Homura felt relieved and sat down. He sighed and wiped the sweat from his forehead. Minato spoke again – Despite the cruelty of Danzo's-san actions, his efforts were not in vain – the elders were puzzled. They didn't understand what Minato meant by that. Minato gave his sensei a signal, and he opened the door – Come on in, boy – said Jiraiya. Kinoe, the boy of the Mokuton, walked into the council room. Minato looked at him – Kinoe-kun, please, show the elders your jutsu – But Kinoe stayed put. He turned to look at Danzo and waited for his approval. Danzo nodded to him. The boy performed a series of hand seals – Mokuton: Wood Pillars Technique – four pillars of wood formed around him. The elders were astonished. After the demonstration, Minato and the rest explained everything they had discovered to the elders. They felt betrayed by Danzo. They knew he was doing missions in clandestinity but never expected he had done such horrible things. It was time for the sentence.
Minato stood up – Danzo-san, the things you've done are beyond imagination. You have shown no sign of remorse despite the number of lives that you have taken. You have sacrificed countless lives just to accomplish your goals. I must say that I find your actions loathsome. However, the council understands you have only acted for Konoha's welfare. We have considered your offer, and the council has decided to accept it under some conditions. You can't go unpunished for what you've done. I will let you keep your arm, but not the sharingans – Tsunade approached Danzo, and with a smile of satisfaction, she removed the sharingans from Danzo. They kept Kagami's eyes in one container and his son's in another – The root will no longer be able to conduct any research. You will be limited to carrying on missions. The labs from the root have been emptied. Madara's arm has been confiscated, as well as the crop Nono-san created. Tsunade-sama will take over the research from now on. The Root will not operate freely, as you suggested. Fugaku Uchiha will oversee and approve any activity of the Root. No more brainwashing will be conducted. I will link your curse seal to me, so even if you die, the curse seal won't disappear. That way, I can ensure your most loyal shinobis won't spread intel to other nations – Danzo was surprised by this last statement. He knew Minato, Kushina, and Jiraiya were the best in fuinjutsu. However, he never thought Minato could link his curse seal to him. He was a clever man, after all. Minato walked towards him – You will not use jutsu, or chakra for that matter, ever again. I will place a heart-mind-chakra binding seal on you. Your life, your brain and your chakra will be in someone else's hands. If we suspect just for one second you betray me again, that you are doing something behind my back, you'll regret it. This is a suppressing seal as well. You won't be able to mold any chakra. If you try to do so, the seal will activate and cause unbearable pain. I will know too if you do it – Danzo smirked. Finally! This was the determination a Hokage must have. This rudeness and coldness were what Konoha needed. Minato performed a series of hand seals. His fingertips lighted in purplish-red flames. Danzo was ready to receive the seal when he noticed Fugaku stood up and got closer to them. Danzo looked at Fugaku with contempt. Minato and Fugaku smiled – I forgot to tell you, Danzo-san. This binding seal will bind you not only to me but also to Fugaku-san. I'm sure you understand he will not hesitate to take your life if he suspects anything, right? – Minato pressed his right hand on Danzo's chest. The seal extended and covered his entire body. Danzo yelled in pain. He then placed his left hand on Fugaku's chest. The seal extended from Danzo's body to Minato's until it reached his left hand and then extended to Fugaku's body. The marks in Danzo disappeared. The seal was complete. The word seal appeared in Minato's and Fugaku's right hand and then vanished. It indicated that the binding had been successful.
– As for Kinoe-kun. Tsunade-sama has offered herself to look after him. He will be given the status of a member of the Senju Clan. Inoichi-san and Ibiki-san will work with him on a deconditioning process. I will let the other children in the root choose to stay or join the regular ANBU – Minato and Fugaku took their seats again. Now that everything was settled, there was one more thing to discuss. Tsunade approached the old man – You will bring back Nono's son, you bastard! – Tsunade lifted Danzo. He only smiled – I'm afraid that's not possible, Tsunade-hime – What do you mean? – the blonde kunoichi asked – Kabuto is infiltrated in Iwagakure. You know how infiltration works. Once a shinobi infiltrates his target, there are no communications for months, sometimes even years. It is too risky for them to communicate with us and for us to try to contact them. We could blow up their cover, and they would end up dead. They only communicate when it is crucial. I haven't heard anything from Kabuto in months now. He has escalated the ranks within Iwagakure. If you try to find him, you'll sentence him to die. But sure, why don't you go and talk with Oonoki? I'm sure he'll understand and let you take him with you and walk out the main door. You have to wait until he tries to reach us. Or maybe he dies before that. That would be a shame. He is very talented – Tsunade threw him away. She was furious, but he was right. They couldn't try to do anything until he made contact. She would wait, hoping he would stay alive. She needed to keep her promise to Nono.