(Chapter 43: An Imperial Visit)
It would be near the end of February as the atmosphere in the village changed as the winter turned from winter to spring, as Lord Ozai alongside his daughter and the imperial guard were coming to Konoha to speak with Minato and Jiraiya. What with said Fire Daimyo being extremely non-plussed about having to come here, as all one had to do was look at his face and see that despite his stalwart composure was an ire and wrath that could reduce forests to so much ash and cinder.
However, Sasuke was by contrast in an incredibly good mood considering that his crush would be visiting the village and as such had an unshakable amount of happiness that cracked through his usually stoic/highly composed demeanor.
(February 25th, 998 S.E, Konoha, Uchiha Compound ,1:45 Pm)
It would be a few days before the Fire Daimyo's impending visit as Naruto was with Sasuke at the Uchiha Compound vibing with the latter who was near ecstatic over such a thing.
"Just two more days and your 'girlfriend' gets to come to the village." Naruto said with a goofy grin that earned him a 'light' shove from Sasuke
"She isn't my girlfriend, Naruto…But I will admit that it will be nice to see her again." Sasuke replied as an unwavering yet small smile was present across his face
"I just hope that she liked the gift that I sent her last week." Sasuke further spoke
"I'm sure she did Sasuke. That wood-carving you made her looked epic as hell, she would have to be a madwoman not to like it!" Naruto spoke not seeing how Azula couldn't like the gift given
"Honestly, Sasuke. I'm telling you that things are gonna go great with her. All you gotta do is just be yourself and everything will pan out just fine." Naruto added
"I suppose you are right, after all, if you can get Hanabi of all people to date you, then maybe I do have a chance with Azula." Sasuke semi-snidely replied
"You know, I can't tell if you're being sarcastic or not?" Naruto asked
"Take your pick, Naurto. But even still I have to say that I am both surprised and happy that your relationship with Hanabi perseveres." Sasuke answered back
"You and me both…To be real with you, I did not think I would last this long with her. Since you'd think she'd move onto someone else by now, but apparently I have something in me that she finds just that wonderful." Naruto spoke in still finding it mystifying that his relationship with the elder Hyuga had gone on for so long
"Considering that you are one of the strongest if not the strongest in the village. On top of how you normally are when you aren't being a violent gremlin with Sakura. Then I can definitely see why she continues to be with you…You are a lot more than what you give yourself credit for by the way." Sasuke said knowing that despite Naruto's chaotic demeanor at times that he was a great man through and through
"Thanks, Sasuke. I really appreciate it…I know it's been almost a year or so since I got her to agree to dating me, and being my partner. But I dunno it just feels weird that I've been able to make this far with somebody." Naruto said back as his confidence in the arena of romance and with women was still taking some getting used to after years of demeaning and emotional abuse from Mizore
"I may not be a love guru, or a master in the ways of love and romance. Yet from what I can see, you are by far and large someone who has made for a great partner to be with…So if there is anyone who will wind up getting a happy ending, and as much as I loathe to admit it, take pointers from...Then it would be you." Sasuke said to the superhuman blonde
"Awwwee, thanks Sasuke. I appreciate that!" Naruto said back with a wide smile on his face
"Not a problem at all…Now if you don't mind, I have to prepare for when Azula comes to the village in a few days time." Sasuke said as he stood up from his seat on the porch
"Do you want any help?" Naruto asked
"No, I should have this one taken care of. I have something in mind, but will update you should anything change." Sasuke answered back
"Alright, well I'm gonna head over to my farmhouse and see how things are over there…So catch you later." Naruto said as he waved goodbye to Sasuke before using Teleport to vanish off and away
'Now then, where I'm going to take her is a good question…At least I have time to think about it before she arrives.' Sasuke noted to himself as he headed inside to figure that particular bit of information out
As such while the Uchiha in question was planning how to spend the day with the Fire Daimyo's daughter once the opportunity arose, across the village Mizuki was with Pakura of all people having lunch with the Scorch Release user and getting to know her more as a new addition to the Hidden Leaf.
"Thank you again for taking me out to lunch today. I appreciate it very much." Pakura said to Mizuki
"Hey don't worry about it. I figured that it wouldn't hurt to treat you to a nice day out on the village and show you around. Besides, I don't have much else to do other than getting back in shape. So why not?" Mizuki replied seeing no reason not to treat Pakura to lunch when he had his whole day...or rather next few months freed up to do so
"The gesture is still very much appreciated on my part…Despite my status as one of the…former heroes of Sunagakure. Being shown kindness so openly was a rarity; given the circumstances as the weakest of the now 4 Great Hidden Villages. So, I apologize in advance if I am flustered by something as commonplace as this." Pakura said back rather happy to have someone do this out of the kindness of their heart
"Hey, it's all good. Here in Konoha, we know that showing people kindness goes a long way. So I hope you don't mind if I do the same for you. Because I may not have a lot like some of the other guys out here in the village. But I hope you don't mind spending time with a schmuck like me." Mizuki told her getting a small chortle from her
"D-Did I say something funny?" Mizuki asked the Scorch Release user
"Oh no, it is just that out of everyone I have met in the village. You have been the most genuine to go out of there way to know me…I just find you rather charming is all." Pakura answered getting an almost bashful smile to come across Mizuki's face
"Well, shucks. I can't really argue with that, especially when it comes to someone like you." Mizuki replied more than happy to know that someone of Pakura's esteem found him charming
"Of course, if anything you are by far and large much more likable than those in my former home…Granted it isn't a great feat to accomplish, considering how Rasa's actions have all but drained the spirit from that place." Pakura said back
"Hey, I'll take it!...I make a full recovery and I get one of the most beautiful women in the village thinking I'm great…Oh yeah, everything's coming up, Mizuki!" Mizuki cheered to himself
"And I am glad that both of us are making a quick recovery…Even moreso after what had happened to you." Pakura spoke regarding Mizuki's miraculous recovery
"What can I say except that I still have more than I can give to everyone in the village. That's why until I can't give anymore, I won't be going anywhere anytime soon." Mizuki replied knowing that he still had quite a bit left in the tank to give
"Once I am cleared to start my 1st mission as a shinobi of Konoha. Then perhaps, I can see what it is you have to give." Pakura said back with a small smile at potential misadventures with Mizuki
"You can definitely count me in for that!" Mizuki said as their orders came
"Good, because it would be a shame if I missed out on an opportunity; to be on a mission with one of the few good people; I've known in the village so far." Pakura replied
"I couldn't agree more, Pakura." Mizuki spoke with a smile on his face as they began to enjoy their lunch together
'God, if you're listening. Thank you for changing my luck around these past few months! Your main man is finally winning at life again!' Mizuki cheered to himself as he continued onward with his day out with Pakura
(3 days later, February 28th, 998 S.E, Hokage Tower, 1:12 Pm)
It would be the end of the month as Fire Daimyo Ozai had arrived in Konoha to deliver his scathing judgment against Minato and Jiraiya, and to anyone who'd seen the ruler of Fire Country make his way towards them…they knew that whatever it was that it wouldn't be pleasant.
"Let me start this by saying that my disappointment and anger in the two of you is immeasurable. The fact I even have to have this conversation to begin with is infuriating to no end." Lord Ozai spoke the rage within his voice being all but tangible
"Lord Ozai I-" Jiraiya tried to say but the seething glare given was enough to stop him in his tracks
"You will speak when I allow you to do so, Jiraiya. Your tongue has done more than enough damage as it is…Pray that I do not burn it out of your mouth for your numerous years of insolence against me." Lord Ozai spoke his hand sparking with flame to illustrate that he was more than willing to deliver on the threat
"Now then, Minato. I want you to answer me this?..Did I do something wrong, did I do something that would offend you enough to keep this prophecy nonsense from me a secret? That you would do something that jeopardizes the fate of not only just your village, but my country without telling me even a word? I want you to answer me honestly, as it is the least you can do in this moment." Lord Ozai asked his voice sounding more hurt than angry regarding the blonde Hokage
"To be honest with you, Ozai. I did this not to hurt you in any capacity, but because at the time I was desparate to try and make sure my children wouldn't have to no another war, or struggle as we did growing up." Minato said with nothing but regret in his voice for the betrayal of one of his closest allies
"So when my sensei in the aftermath of the 9-tails attack, offered the prophecy up as the golden solution to all of our problems. Then I took it without hesitation, as I knew that it was wrong to withhold this information from you at the time, but when it meant an end all be all too what happens out there in the world and the horrors that go along with it. Then I agreed to keep the information of what we were doing without a second thought, but that being said and having realized how foolish it was to go along with all of this. I am truly and earnestly sorry for my actions, Lord Ozai, and as such will take any punishment you give to me in stride, as it is what I deserve for going against one of the few people I have to still call a friend." Minato further spoke his heart twisted into an endless knot of regret, self hate and disgust at having kept this farce going for so long
"While I cannot forgive you for this deception, and I may never do so for a long time. I am at the very least understanding of why you did so, Minato. At the very least, I can respect on some level why you did so for the welfare of your children…For that, I will not punish you as severely as I had planned." Lord Ozai told his longtime friend and wartime comrade
"Thank you, Lord Ozai. I appreciate your generosity and understanding." Minato said with a dutiful and resigned nod toward the Fire Daimyo
"That being said, you will still be punished nonetheless. As such once the Chunin Exams are over, you are hereby stripped of your Hokage position and will spend the next 3 years on probation and house arrest. Any movements or training are to be directly reported to me as soon as possible. I can least trust that you will abide by these terms, given how 'light' this is after what you and your sensei have done." Lord Ozai told the blonde Hokage of his punishment
"I understand the terms of my punishment loud and clear, Lord Ozai. Thank you for your leniency." Minato replied thanking whatever deity above that he wasn't going to be executed for what was essentially high treason
"Of course, Minato. Despite all of this we are still friends and colleagues, and I will respect you enough to not inflict a needlessly harsh punishment upon you, for doing something in the welfare of your children. After all, I would be inclined to say that if I were in your position, that I would have done the same for Zuko and Azula." Lord Ozai admitted with a stern but understanding look towards Minato
"That being said, as for you Jiraiya. I will not be so lenient, given how it is thanks to your actions both with this prophecy, and for your own personal matters; that I am absolutely livid with you." Lord Ozai spoke as his demeanor and composure turned downright furious
"My lord, you have to understand, that everything I did was for the good of Konoha and Fire Country. You have to believe that." Jiraiya spoke yet the witheringly furious glare of Ozai only intensified and along with it the temperature of the room to the point where Minato began to sweat and he wasn't even the target of Ozai's ire
"You lied and deceived me for nearly 20 years, for the good of MY hidden village and MY country?! Especially, when you not only spent precious resources banking the future of my domain on 2 spoiled arrogant brats, who will sooner run this village into the ground than save it, much less the world; who are the weakest of all the jinchuuriki in the world at this moment. Not only that, but you also saw fit to leech away funds from the village, my court, and even your student, to not only fund your personal vices but as child support as well…Honestly, I am surprised that you stoop so low for the 'good' of the village and my country that this prophecy is supposed to promote." Lord Ozai retorted as Minato took on a shocked and vastly disappointed look on his face
"Y-You've done what?!" Minato said flabbergasted to hear this information
"Oh that's right, he never mentioned that he took roughly a quarter of village funds, and your own personal funds that not only you have but from the joint accounts that you and your wife share. To not only pay off the small hordes worth of child support he owes to those he has laid in bed with. He also used it to fund all of his little Icha Icha projects, from his publishing company, porn studios, you name it he took a bit off the top to do so." Lord Ozai informed Minato of his sensei's actions
"To be fair, didn't you find it strange that the village's budget had consistently come up short in the last decade or so? Despite you having done everything possible to get it back on its feet?" Lord Ozai inquired as an increasingly furious Minato snapped to face Jiraiya
"Honestly, I would have figured that you would have noticed after a few years. But then again, I cannot fault you when this trifling toad is so good at masking how much of a deceitful worm he truly is." Lord Ozai added as Jiraiya almost wanted to disappear from the seething glare of Ozai and the disappointed look of his student
"Sensei, it wasn't enough that you used your prophecy to rot my family from the inside out and keep secrets from our leader. But you used it to steal from me and Kushina as well?!...Do you not have any shame at all, I trusted and treated you like my own father for God's sake!" Minato growled out feeling his heart break at the betrayal he was now being informed of
"Minato, you have to understand. Even with everything going on, I had to do something to pay off the less 'favorable' parts of my past. It was either that or I go into debt and not be able to help prepare the twins for the prophecy or make the hard choice. If anything it was for the best that I did this…" Jiraiya tried to say before a lightning-quick left hook to his face sent him sprawling
"I tolerated a lot of things from you, sensei. But stealing from me, when you know full well that I would've done anything under the sun for you. And to do it right under my nose, and have the utter gall to try and sugarcoat it as something noble. Do you have no shame?" Minato said struggling to control the whirlwind of emotions rising within him
"Oh trust me, Minato. It gets worse, considering that what I've told you only scratches the surfaces of what he has done behind closed doors." Lord Ozai replied as Jiraiya clutched his now bloodied nose
"How far does this even go, Ozai? Better yet who even gave you this information?" Minato questioned almost trembling with rage
"While I can have my men deliver to you the details of your sensei's backdoor dealings and ill-gotten gains. All within the week I might add. Who informed me of this, I cannot say for their own protection, as they requested to be anonymous when they relayed that Jiraiya was withholding precious information from me, and using the prophecy of your twin children as a smokescreen to do it." Lord Ozai answered back
'Not as though I could blame, Naruto for wanting to stay anonymous. He may be powerful no doubt, but even he has to be careful against the sort of hellfire that Jiraiya could rain down on his loved ones.' Lord Ozai remarked to himself regarding Naruto's play to remain anonymous
"That being said, and while I will deliver the documents to you soon enough, Minato. I believe that Jiraiya's immediate punishments should be meted out. Given that his additional ones' I will be hinging on how the jinchuuriki perform at the Chunin Exams." Lord Ozai spoke his golden gaze locking onto Jiraiya
"If I may, why hinge his further punishments on Mizore and Toshiro's success?" Minato questioned curious to know why it would depend on such a thing
"Simple, since he has decided to invest everything into those bratty mistakes for shinobi. I decided that I should make this interesting for myself. As such should they fail to meet my standards and worth of why 18 years worth of resources were wasted on weapons that can barely control a 3rd of their tailed beasts' powers. When even Takigakure's can control the full totality of there's, and make it to the rank of Chunin during the Exams. Then I will have Jiriaya sent to the Blood Prison for the crimes of high treason against the crown, embezzlement, and a litany of other crimes that you will soon find out about, Minato." Lord Ozai told them with a menacing smirk
"You can't do that, they're just children. You can't just hinge everything on them like that!" Jiraiya spoke but an unphased Fire Daimyo remained unmoved
"Oh, but I can and I will, Jiraiya. You see, I had figured that what better way to pay you back for your years of secrecy? Than to use those 2 little golden tickets to fame and glory against you. Which is why for your sake, you had better hope that they obtain the rank of Chunin. Otherwise, consider yourself in chains for the next 150 years." Lord Ozai spoke back with his smirk growing into a malefic smile
"Until then, I am post-haste revoking your traveling rights as a Sannin until further notice. Any attempt to leave the village without my explicit approval will be deemed as further treason and as such will have you marked as a rogue ninja. In addition, you are to begin paying back all the stolen funds you have acquired by the end of the Chunin Exams, failure to do so and I will have you sacked for all of your worth until you truly learn what it is like to live as a Sage. Lastly, until you do all of your projects are being shut down and liquidated to pay for the years of interest for what you have leeched from me." Lord Ozai told a stunned Jiraiya
"Ozai you can't-" Jiraiya went to say before the burst of intense flame flickered to life in Ozai's hands with such intensity it singed Jiraiya's bangs into ash
"It seems you forget yourself, Toad Sannin. You do not command me to do anything, I command you not the other way around. So unless you want me to incinerate that silver tongue from your skull and your manhood from your body, then I suggest you be silent and accept your punishment, NOW!" Lord Ozai spoke with such a finality that Jiraiya felt his throat become drier than the Sands of Sunagakure
"...Now then, I believe I have said all that has been needed to…I despise the fact that it even came to this, but you two dug your own grave and must lay in it. So farewell until the Chunin Exams, Minato and tell your eldest I say hello if you get the chance he is a fine young man…In fact, if he does well enough I may suggest that he be given a future position in the Twelve Guardian Ninja. The boy is certainly talented enough to be deserving of it." Lord Ozai further spoke before taking his leave as he extinguished the flames in his hands leaving Minat and Jiraiya by themselves
"Minato, you have to understand that everything I did, I did for the…" Jiraiya spoke before a wave of purely concentrated killing intent struck him like a punch to the liver from Tsunade
"Get out of my sight right now, Jiraiya. Stay away from me, my family, Naruto until I tell you otherwise. Don't even bother telling me anything with that damnable rotten prophecy whatsoever, better yet don't even mention a single word about the toads…The fact that you took from me for years has me so livid right now, that I can barely think straight." Minato said back with so much rage in his voice that he was shaking and the blood vessels in his left eye bursting from how angry he was with his sensei
"Minato, you need to know that I-I…" Jiraiya tried to speak once more but a Hiraishin kunai that sliced his cheek open said all that was needed
"I said leave and do not come near me until I say otherwise, or do I need to remind you where you stand right now? Considering the fact that you are talking to me after what was brought to light, did not make it clear that you are no longer welcome in my presence." Minato said with such ire that he looked the least human Jiraiya had seen from his student since the war and as such wisely and quickly left his sight
'...At this point, I honestly hate my position as Hokage right now. It all seems as though it is more of a curse; than something to be proud of these days, and my sensei being an backstabbing deceiver does not help.' Minato said to himself as he gripped his desk so hard out of anger that it cracked in half spilling paperwork and documents all over the floor
(The next day later, Akimichi BBQ, 1:35 Pm, March 1st, 998 S.E)
However, on the following day later wherein contrast to Minato's and Jiraiya's day being sundered by the Fire Daimyo's punishments', Sasuke was enjoying a day out with Azula wherein he was taking her out to lunch for the day.
"I will admit this is a nice change of scenery than what I am used too." Azula said as she ate more of her ribeye steak
"How so?" Sasuke asked as he ate more of his dumplings and curry
"After having so many of my father's suitors go out of their way to lavishly impress me. It feels refreshing to have someone take me somewhere I can be treated as a normal person." Azula answered back
"For that, I wanted to say thank you. It is nice to see that someone knows my worth." Azula added feeling vindicated by Sasuke's treating of her as a real person
"Of course, Azula. If there is one thing that I find appalling, it is that people will not see others for what they are really worth. Just as how I see your worth as a wonderful woman to take to lunch, as well as an incredibly fearsome warrior." Sasuke said causing a smile to appear
"You know that flattery will get you everywhere?" Azula asked
"If I gain a potential date with you, then I will keep it coming in abundance. After all, someone of your stature and future greatness should be recognized for all they are worth." Sasuke answered back causing Azula to blush at the words lauded her way
"Now I know you are trying to soften me up." Azula said as they continued eating
"Is it working?...Judging by your face reddening like that I would say it is." Sasuke asked as Azula had the decency to look embarassed
"You are incredibly lucky I find you as charming as you are handsome, Sasuke Uchiha. Otherwise, this conversation would be much shorter." Azula answered back using her years of composure and teachings in decorum to not splutter
"I would hope that I am incredibly lucky. Otherwise, I would not be in the grace of your company milady." Sasuke responded back causing her blush to begin intensifying
'Why did I have to be cursed with a weakness for kind words and cute boys.' Azula internally cursed
'Hey, Sasuke how're all those moves I told you work on the Princess going?' Naruto asked over the Mind Radio
'To be quite honest, Naruto. Better than I had hoped, if anything I am surprised that this is working so effectively.' Sasuke said back through the telepathic connection
'How you came up with these ideas, is completely beyond me.' Sasuke added
'Thank, Grandpa Dan and Lyoto for all those romance novels they're suckers for. Since they're a gold-mine and a half.' Naruto said as he continued taking orders
'It is definitely appreciated, as I will not lie when I say my stomach is in knots right now.' Sasuke telepathically replied
'The best thing I can say is good luck on your day out, and if you need anything I got you. Now good luck on the rest of your day out.' Naruto said as he returned to his server duties
"Now then, Sasuke. What do you plan to do once the Chunin Exams have been completed? Let us be real with ourselves it is no doubt that you will win, since you are clearly superior to nearly every single one of your peers." Azula spoke inquired
"Even those bothersome jinchuuriki, this village is so proud of are not even close to being on a caliber close to yours…Which says something about how low the standards of the village have fallen, if they allow 'them' to be shinobi." Azula added failing to see what was the intrinsic value in something as unruly and unstable as jinchuuriki
"That is a question I have wondered myself, considering that between you and I. How they continue to have their headbands is beyond me…But beyond that, I was thinking of applying to Anbu if things work out in my favor." Sasuke informed her of what his decision would be going forward regarding his shinobi career
"Really? That is a rather admirable avenue for your career. If I may ask, why choose the Anbu Black Ops?" Azula asked curious as to why her potential partner would choose that route
"Simple, not only have my brother and a considerable portion of my family been a part of the Anbu. But it would allow me to serve the village in a far greater capacity, than what I could as a normal Chunin. Not only that, but the opportunities granted by becoming an operative of it will afford me greater chances to prove myself as one of the villages' greatest swordsmen." Sasuke answered back
"Besides, if that does not work out. Then I plan on joining the Military Police; so that I may serve the village in equal capacity as well." Sasuke added in regards to his back-up plan should joining the ANBU Black Ops fail
"Those are very respectable choices for yourself as well. But the real question is how far do you intend to go, should you accomplish either one? After all, with someone of you skill and composure as one of Konoha's soon-to-be best and brightest. I am curious to see how far your ambitions lie." Azula asked her golden gaze burning with curiosity to the point it would seem predatory to any normal man but alluring to Sasuke
"That is quite easy to answer. If things work out regarding the Anbu Black Ops, then I intend to not only use it to further my dreams of becoming the village's greatest kenjutsu master. I also intend to become commander of it as well, as I refuse to settle for anything but the very best for myself; when I know it can be achieved." Sasuke told her
"However, even if that does not work then I intend to rise to the rank of potentially being that of Police chief of of the Miltary Police. As well as Jonin of the village, given that all things that I have spoken of are within my grasp…All I need is time to achieve those goals, and not even the likes of Madara Uchiha himself can stop me from gaining what is mine." Sasuke said with a determined expression full of unwavering resolve and grit to achieve it that made Azula heart skip a beat
'That has to be one of the hottest things I've heard anyone say. I really think I'm in love right now.' Azula said to herself feeling her chest swell with warmth and lust over the resolve and assertiveness that her other suitors had lacked
"But other than my ambitions, I do hope to see you at the Chunin Exams, Princess Azula..Now that I have perfected my 3 Swords Style, I think that its only fair to have someone such as yourself there to witness it in action." Sasuke spoke in hopes of seeing his crush at the Exams
"I will be attending there as soon as possible…Father wishes to see if Konoha is meeting his standards after the debacle that the Toad Sannin has caused. Apparently, he has been stealing from the village and my father for quite some time now, and to be fully transparent I hope that he is in chains by the end of our stay here." Azula replied her pleasant demeanor hiding how furious she was with the Toad Sage
"Honestly, it wouldn't surprise me that he would do something like that. That man is nothing if not completely and utterly foul." Sasuke said in complete derison of Jiriaya
"Indeed, however, I refuse to let that perverted fool ruin my day…So I say that we get out of here, and see more of the village." Azula spoke after finishing her food
"I couldn't agree more. Also, don't worry about paying, I have everything covered." Sasuke replied having already covered their tab
"So not only are you an impressive swordsman, but a gentleman as well. Is there anything that you aren't capable of?" Azula said with a smile on her face
"How about we continue our day together, and you will see much more of what I am." Sasuke said back with a smile of his own that hid the writhing nerves that threatened to overtake him
"I would be delighted, Sasuke." Azula spoke as the two departed from the restaurant
'How in the name of God am I not screwing this up!...HOW?!' Sasuke internally wondered to himself as on the inside he was sweating buckets from sheer nerves
"Good luck, and godspeed Sasuke. You can do it!" Naruto said as he went back to work
(1 week later, Otogakure, 1:45 Pm, March 10th, 998 S.E)
Meanwhile, it would be a week later in Otogakure as the Serpent Sannin was visiting with Kabuto over the preparations for their soon to be joining of the Chunin Exams/Invasion of Konoha.
"And you are certain that everything has been set accordingly for the Exams this June?" Orochimaru asked Kabuto
"It is, indeed. Our shinobi remain vigilant and ready for the moment things begin for the invasion. Our spies remain unseen and unfound by Konoha's best. Lastly, our genin team has been selected as our gateway in, with Isane operating as their jonin sensei as requested." Kabuto answered back
"How has Isane taken to her cover so as to better infiltrate Konoha?" Orochimaru questioned her 2nd in command
"Very well, I might add…Granted it was a bit of a rough start so soon after the siege of Iwa. However, that being said; once she was able to adjust to everything, she has sense preformed admirably as their sensei." Kabuto reported back
"That is good to hear, Kabuto. Furthermore, were we able to find a replacement for Kin Tsuchi? While she would have made for a fine addition to that team, she unfortunately had to pay for Tayuya's recklessness." Orochimaru questioned regarding the fill-in spot for Team Dosu
"Yes we were. It was a Steel Release user that by all accounts compliments the abilities of Dosu Kinuta and Zaku Abumi more than what Kin would have. As such I believe that their success rate will be far above what we initially planned for when Kin was involved." Kabuto answered back
"That is excellent news to hear. In the meantime, has everything worked out with Kin as far as our experiments have gone?" Orochimaru further asked their right hand
"Project Siren-Song has proven to be a success through all of our trials so far. Within the next 2 to 3 weeks, we can begin field testing." Kabuto answered back
"Again, that is great news, Kabuto…While it is a shame that this had to happen to someone with talents as a genjutsu prodigy. It is also a great yield to our forces bio-weapons, that we have something that can further turn the tides in our favor. Hence why as sad as this is to have this happen to one of our promising shinobi that the regret I feel is far outweighed by all of its future applications." Orochimaru spoke feeling some pity for Kin's fate caused by Tayuya but penultimately too invested in what it could bring
While Orochimaru did feel pity for Kin being punished for Tayuya's actions given that she was moreso the innocent party the Serpent Sannin overall saw the benefits of their actions; negating the guilt of turning her into a monstrous creature that could manipulate sound to unleash debilitating effects on the battlefield.
"I would feel sympathetic for Kin as well. However, considering she had more than ample time to convince Tayuya to stop acting like a reckless idiot. Then my pity well is dried out concerning her." Kabuto said regarding his feelings on the subject
'Besides, this way she will be far more useful to the village than she originally was as Tayuya's plus one.' Kabuto said to himself
"Beyond, Project Siren-Song being a success. What of Project Ghidorah? I trust that the sample I entrusted of Manda's remains have been put to good use." Orochimaru further queried as Kabuto's face grew a proud smile
"Project Ghidorah has been an even greater success. The samples you gave us of Manda's remains have not only responded well to the draconic plates' power, and Hidan's cells' ,but the metal tablet as well. It has remained not only stable since its creation, but shown an advanced growth-rate to the point of growing at triple the anticipated rate…We estimate that by mid-April at the latest, Project Ghidorah will be ready." Kabuto answered back impressed himself that the growing Kaiju was reaching completion ahead of schedule
"That is incredible news to hear, Kabuto. Finally, Manda was made useful for something beyond being a cantankerous glutton." Orochimaru said glad to never again deal with Manda's need for 'sacrifices'
"Our men are also grateful to no longer be subject to Manda's hunger as well, my lord. In addition, I doubt that when we unleash it upon Konoha; even Jiraiya's Toad summons will stand a chance against it." Kabuto replied as Orochimaru let a predatory grin come across their face
"I sincerely doubt that even at their best that they would have stood a chance against, Project Ghidorah. However, now that they have been sundreed and turned into a blighted shell of themselves; by the hands of otherworldly demons from beyond. Which have turned their fallen into abominations of warped flesh…I would daresay that they have fallen to the very bottommost rung of strength in terms of a summon." Orochimaru said back with a mirthful chuckle at how far the Toads have fallen
"If I may ask, how far as the blight from these supposed demons caused the Toads to fall?...Out of curiosity, I am interested to know." Kabuto queried curious as to how bad this could be
"To put it simply, Kabuto. The amount of desolation caused by their sundering was so great, that even the chakra at Mount. Myoboku has become tainted. As such it has prevented even Jiraiya and those associated with them from training there in the ways of Senjutsu." Orochimaru answered back
"In fact, the blight caused by that attack months ago was so great; that the leader of the Snake Summons informed me that the Toads may have to relocate elsewhere…Serves them right for meddling in affairs that they have no business with in any capacity." Orochimaru further spoke their face unable to hide the mirthful delight from having found this out months ago when it happened
"Do you think that this will allow us to capitalize on taking Jiraiya out of the equation?...Perhaps even the 4th Hokage himself, given that both of them are both Toad Summoners?" Kabuto asked wondering if this could serve as their Achillies Heel
"While it is within the realm of possibility. I would not rely on that as a factor alone, seeing as how we have yet to see how far this will affect them going forward." Orochimaru answered back
"Fair enough, my lord. Even without the Toads, Minato is still incredibly powerful." Kabuto replied before clearing his throat
"Also, I do have to ask why you decided on this 'alliance' with Sunagakure? Given there previous affiliation with Yagura's regime, and our village holding a high concentration of bloodline wielders." Kabuto further asked
"Simple, Kabuto. Because they will make a perfect body shield so to speak when we make our move against Konoha." Orochimaru replied to a semi-confused Kabuto
"I don't quite follow, Lord Orochimaru. Would you mind elaborating?" Kabuto questioned
"Gladly. You see Rasa is one of the easiest to manipulate when you get down too it. As such convincing him to enter into an alliance with us; when we have absorbed Iwa into our ranks was easy enough." Orochimaru spoke before continuing
"Yet it is with us holding all the cards in our agreement, I can essentially puppeteer him into doing what I want. After all, with Yagura's regime on unsteady legs as our aid in Kiri weakens them further; in addition to Suna remaining the weakest even after Iwa's fall…He has everything to lose should he turn against me, given that our forces not only outnumber his, but with Han and Roshi at our backing we have far stronger jinchuuriki as well. Hence why he knows that should he go against me, then it would be certain doom to do so." Orochimaru further spoke with a predatory grin that made Kabuto realize where his leader was going with Suna being their 'body shield' for the invasion
Since they not only possessed superior military might but also the resources they needed that were being gradually cut off in the way of Yagura's focusing more on fighting against the rebels that had been supported by the Serpent Sannin's men; that the picture was painted clearly for why Orochimaru was confident that she could force Rasa into taking the fall. Seeing as how they had stacked an entire deck against them and put them into a chokehold to where even in the event that Rasa went against the leader of Oto that they would ruin them so severely that even the 6th Kazekage would feel the effects of Orochimaru's wrath.
"I think that I see things clearly in how you have made Suna our meat-shield once we begin the invasion." Kabuto spoke after having taken a few moments to see how it would all come together
"Indeed, Kabuto. With everything at our disposal and how far the village has come, we have sufficiently stacked everything in our favor…So if Rasa should feel the slightest bit rebellious, then at my leisure I can remind him of where he stands in our 'alliance' and give him the necessary shock to reality he needs." Orochimaru replied with their predatory smile growing all the wider in knowing they controlled everything in their favor
"It seems as though you have thought of everything Lord Orochimaru." Kabuto said back
"Not everything per say, just enough to bring about my former colleagues' downfall…The only factor that I cannot account for, is the one person in my former home that I can call my truest equal." Orochimaru said as the silver-haired medic knew all too well of whom the Sannin was speaking of
"Naruto Uzumaki?" Kabuto spoke
"Precisely, that young man is without a shadow of a doubt the one person I know can stand as my equal. It is hard to explain, it is almost as though in sharing the same power that there is a sort of magnetism that I feel towards him. Something otherworldly if you will that has me drawn towards him." Orochimaru replied regarding Naruto
"And what do you want to be done about him?" Kabuto further questioned
"At the current moment, nothing. The only one that will do anything to him will be myself. Given that it is not out of arrogance that I say this, but of fact; that I am the only one that can possibly match him in sheer power should things go astray." Orochimaru answered back
"Understood…Anything else, I should be aware of concerning Minato's eldest child." Kabuto asked
"No, not at the current moment. For now, stick to the plans we have prepared for and adjust accordingly should any new information come about regarding the exams…Am I understood?" Orochimaru ordered of their right-hand with a level of underlying menace that promised untold pain should anything come to Naruto in a negative manner
"Crystal." Was Kabuto's sole response
"Good, and as such you are dismissed for the day; until further notice or need." Orochimaru told Kabuto who nodded before heading off and away for the remainder of the day
'Now then Naruto, I am quite curious to see just how much more you have evolved since our last meeting.' Orochimaru said to herself curious to see where Naruto's strengths lay after their last meeting
Now that Ozai's judgment has been passed upon Minato and Jiraiya as the looming Chunin Exams hinge further on the fate of the Toad Sannin, our intrepid heroes now prepare for said Exams that will further alter the course of things for them in the uncertain future before them. How exactly it will change for them, you will have to stick around and see in the all new installments of, Naruto: The PokeSage!
Alright, that'll do it for this one, as I hoped you enjoyed what went on in this chapter as Lord Ozai lays down the law as now even more hinges on the Chunin Exams as Jiraiya finds himself in a deep, deep, DEEP hole which is gonna make all that comes from the Exams a helluva way to go. But until that time, I want to again say thanks for everyone sticking around thus far for all of the shenanigans that have come from this story, and hope that you guys and everyone that comes to read all of what comes next enjoys it.
What with this being Pravus666 signing off till next time as we not only close out Part 2, but also begin the Chunin Exams as well. So stay tuned for next time everybody, and I'll see you in the next one.
Part 2 Theme Song: To the Pain by Nonpoint
Random End Song: ShutterSpeed by Karnivool
Now then onto some of the reviews from the previous chapter.
Kourtney Uzu Yato: Yeah, as it is honestly surprising how Kakashi hasn't busted a blood vessel or had a stroke out of just sheer tiredness, annoyance and fed-up he's been with Toshiro and Mizore being massive dickheads the majority of the time. Also, yup Naruto is officially a farmer and has his little piece of peace and quiet away from everyone, but just close enough to where the commute to and from the village won't be too terrible for someone that has super-speed as with our favorite champion of Arceus. Plus Kurama would just heal them just enough so they could function, as he rather likes his entertainment to be living...as if they can't function this his ability to be entertained ceases and our curmudgeonly kitsune can't have that, so as much as he'd hate it; they'd stay alive and healed long enough to be functional so long as he gets entertained. Also, I just could not help it by making Hashirama the Godfather of Stoners, as come on when you can manipulate plant life with Wood Release, you mean to tell me your not gonna abuse it to make all the weed you want...honestly, I'm surprised more people don't roll with stoner Hashirama after everything he's had to put up with before and during his reign as 1st Hokage.
starravenwolf: And I'm glad you liked everyone having this bit of downtime, because next chapter we're about to hit up the Chunin Exams and things are only gonna start ramping back up from thereon; so stay tuned for some shenanigans my guy. Also, trust me by the time the Regi's and everyone pop up to have the Toads run round 2...Mt. Myouboku will have officially gone to hell and a handbasket, as Giratina's blighting the area will have messed it up quite a bit from what I intend to cover in the future. Also, it'll take awhile for the Pokeberry's idea to manifest but once I get done with the Chunin Exams, I'll start toying around with all of that.
Skull Flame: Well, in regards to Shisui's wingman abilities...how else do you think Itachi landed Izumi in this version of things, say what you want about him being a prodigy, but a smooth operator he was not. Also, yeah Sasuke is an avid woodcarver when he isn't training to be an absolute menace at Kenjutsu. Also, I'm glad you liked the fluff with Gaara and Naruto since I figured it would be a nice bit since Naruto would've felt bad about missing out on her birthmas, and as such done as much as he could to make up for it.
Darth Diabolos: That's honestly the tricky thing for Gaara, considering to her its someone whose showing her this much affection and care that be it platonic or otherwise; she is just simply happy to have someone treat her as such. Hence why, either way things fall in that regard, that she will just be happy to have Naruto in her life. Also, I hope you like how Ozai came down on Jiraiya and Minato, as I figured it would be the best way I could do things without it feeling overblown or over the top; while still fitting in with how petty Ozai can more than very be towards people that cross him.
God of Wind 200: I do plan on covering the whole Plates ordeal post-Chunin Exams between Naruto and Orochimaru, as I think I've come up with a way that would make sense for all parties involved...all I need to do is get through the hooplah of the Chunin Exams first and foremost. Also, Naruto hasn't considered space-travel yet because, its just something that hasn't crossed his mind when he's just focused on vibing with his friends and such and being a demigod-farmer and all that bizz.
