Author's Note:
Insert generic disclaimer that I don't own this franchise. Thanks to everyone who has been following along, favoriting, and leaving reviews. I apologize for the delay, it's been quite a while! I want to try to update more often, but life has been hectic lately. I hope you enjoy!
Chapter 5: Preparations
Naruto sat there, hunched over, his hands trembling as he attempted to collect himself. The taste of bile still clung to the back of his throat, and the adrenaline that had fueled his actions was rapidly giving way to the overwhelming weight of the lives he had extinguished.
After a few minutes, Kakashi spoke softly. "Naruto, it's okay to feel this way. Taking a life is never easy, especially when it's your first time. But remember, it was them or us. We had to protect our village. You did what needed to be done."
Naruto wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and looked up at Kakashi. Behind the porcelain dog mask, the elder shinobi's eyes showed a rare glimpse of understanding and empathy. Naruto nodded, taking a deep breath to steady himself. "I know, sensei. It's just... different when you're actually faced with it. I'll be okay."
Kakashi extended a hand to help Naruto stand. "It's a part of the path we walk as shinobi. We have to make tough choices sometimes. But it's essential to remember that our duty is to protect our home and our loved ones."
Naruto gripped Kakashi's hand and pulled himself up. "Thanks, sensei. Let's go back to the campsite and get some rest. We have a long mission ahead of us."
The two shinobi returned to their camp, and as Naruto laid down, he knew that the mission wasn't over. They still had to patrol and ensure the safety of the Hidden Leaf, and that more difficult choices could lie ahead.
The moon hung high in the sky, casting a pale glow over the forest, and the air was filled with the symphony of nocturnal creatures. Kakashi stood guard, perched silently on a sturdy branch, his single Sharingan eye scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger.
Down below, Naruto lay on his makeshift bedroll, tossing and turning restlessly. He had tried to close his eyes, but the memories of earlier weighed heavily on his mind. The lives he had taken haunted him and even though it had been a necessary act to protect the village.
Kakashi had been monitoring Naruto, his concern growing as he noticed the young shinobi's struggle to find peace in his restless sleep. After a while, he decided to descend from his post and approached Naruto quietly.
"Naruto," he whispered, crouching down beside his restless student. "Having trouble sleeping?"
Naruto turned to look at his sensei, his eyes reflecting a mixture of exhaustion and unease. "Yeah, Kakashi-sensei. I can't stop thinking about... those Iwa shinobi I killed," Naruto admitted, his voice quivering slightly.
Kakashi nodded, his mask concealing his expression, but his voice held a comforting tone. "It's natural to feel this way, Naruto. You're not alone in carrying this burden. Many have been through the same."
Naruto sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know. I just can't help but feel like I'm weak. How did Jiraiya-sensei do it? How did Dad do it?"
Kakashi's lone visible eye softened as he understood the weight of Naruto's words. "Minato-sensei was a remarkable shinobi, Naruto, and he faced moments like this. One, in particular, comes to mind."
Naruto's eyes widened with curiosity. "What happened, Kakashi-sensei?"
Kakashi began to recount the story. "During the Third Great Ninja War, Minato led our forces against the Hidden Stone Village. It was a brutal and bloody conflict, and he was faced with making difficult decisions to protect the village. In one of those battles, he personally took out the entire Iwa battalion that threatened Konoha."
Naruto's expression turned grave. "The entire battalion? I had heard stories, but I assumed they were exaggerated."
Kakashi nodded. "Yes, thousands of Iwa shinobi within an hour. It was a grim and painful choice, but it was the path he had to take to safeguard the village. And he, too, was haunted by the lives he had to end."
"Yeah," Naruto said, his voice trembling slightly. "How did he cope with it?"
Kakashi paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "Minato-sensei told me that he never took the lives he ended lightly. He carried their memory as a weight on his soul and he believed that the best way to honor them was by dedicating himself to protecting the village, training the next generation, and doing whatever it took to maintain peace."
Naruto absorbed Kakashi's words, a somber reflection in his eyes. "I see... So, he found a way to live with it and keep moving forward."
Kakashi nodded. "Yes, Naruto. He accepted the burden of his actions and channeled it into becoming an even greater shinobi, and eventually Hokage, ensuring that the sacrifices made in battle were not in vain."
As Naruto closed his eyes once more, he still carried the weight of his deeds, but there was a glimmer of understanding and determination in his eyes. "I'll find a way to do the same, Kakashi-sensei. I'll make them proud."
Kakashi patted Naruto's shoulder reassuringly. "I have no doubt you will, Naruto. I'll be keeping watch. If you need anything, don't hesitate to wake me."
With these words of reassurance, Naruto settled back, beginning to find peace in his rest, while Kakashi resumed his watchful position, guiding his student through the darkness and challenges that lay ahead.
The first light of dawn shone across the backs of Kakashi and Naruto, both clad in their respective ANBU attire. The pair continued out on their patrol along the border of the Land of Fire, tasked with maintaining vigilance and protecting their homeland. Kakashi couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu as they moved through the dense forest, the shadows of their past constantly lurking.
As they advanced from the Kusa border back towards the Kumo territory, they found no signs of enemy activity. The world seemed quiet, and the only sounds were those of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Naruto couldn't help but feel both relieved and anxious that they hadn't encountered any threats.
"Inu, this patrol has been pretty uneventful so far," Naruto remarked, breaking the silence.
Kakashi glanced at his young companion and nodded. "That's a good thing, Mokin. It means the peace is holding, and our presence is deterring potential threats."
Naruto scratched his head and let out a sigh. "I guess so. But it's hard to just walk around and not do much when we could be headed to war."
Kakashi couldn't help but smile beneath his mask. "I can understand that, Mokin. In my younger days, I was always eager for action as well."
Naruto's curiosity piqued. "You were in the Third Great Ninja War, right? What was that like?"
Kakashi's gaze wandered into the distance, lost in the memories of the past. "It was a brutal and unforgiving war, much like any other. I had my share of intense battles, but it was also where I learned some of the most valuable lessons of my life."
Naruto watched his sensei intently, eager to hear more.
Kakashi continued, "One lesson I took to heart is the importance of camaraderie. It's easy to get lost in the chaos of war, but the bonds you form with your comrades are what keep you going. Obito and Rin were my closest friends, and they meant everything to me."
Naruto could sense the sadness in Kakashi's voice. "What happened to them?"
Kakashi's single Sharingan eye darkened with sorrow. "Obito sacrificed himself to save me, and Rin... I couldn't protect her. She died during a mission, and I was helpless to prevent it."
Naruto felt a surge of empathy for his sensei. "I'm sorry, sensei."
Kakashi placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, a rare sign of warmth. "It's alright. It's part of the path we walk as shinobi. But the lesson here is to cherish the time you have with the people who matter to you. Don't waste any opportunities to spend time with your precious people.
Naruto nodded, taking Kakashi's words to heart. "I'll remember that, sensei. I won't waste any time."
Kakashi couldn't resist a mischievous glint in his eye. "Speaking of precious people, Mokin, you're the Hero of the Leaf now. Any new girlfriends in your life? I'm sure you learned something other than ninjutsu from Jiraiya-sama…"
Naruto's cheeks turned bright red as he stammered, "W-What? I didn't learn-No, I mean, there's no one..."
But to Naruto's own surprise, his mind wandered to a certain blonde-haired kunoichi rather than the usual pink haired medic that he thought of. Ino had always been a friend, but recently, he had started noticing her in a different light. Her vibrant personality, her intelligence, and her unwavering support—it all seemed to be speaking to him in ways he hadn't fully realized yet.
Kakashi chuckled beneath his mask, seemingly amused by Naruto's flustered response. "No need to be embarrassed, Mokin. Just remember, relationships can be a source of strength as well. If there's someone special, don't hesitate to take the leap."
As they continued their patrol, Kakashi and Naruto shifted from the solemn conversation of the past to lighter, more heartwarming topics. And although Naruto tried to push his feelings to the back of his mind, he couldn't help but acknowledge the newfound curiosity about the one person who had occupied his thoughts throughout their patrol.
In the hidden village of Iwagakure, the Third Tsuchikage, Onoki, was hard at work in his office. The intelligence from his spies that he ordered to infiltrate into Konoha had finally arrived. Onoki knew that this information was crucial, and he couldn't afford any delays in acting on it. The reports detailed Konoha's desperate need to rebuild after the devastating attack by Pein, which presented an excellent opportunity for Iwagakure to make its move.
'So, Tobi-san was telling the truth regarding Konoha's predicament.'
Onoki's son, Kurotsuchi, stood nearby, ready to assist his father in handling the village's affairs. Onoki glanced at the scrolls, his brow furrowing as he read. "The situation in Konoha is dire. They are relying on builders from the Land of Waves to help rebuild their village, specifically the famous bridge builder Tazuna."
Kurotsuchi nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation and the opportunity it provided them. If Konohagakure was occupied with rebuilding their infrastructure, that left them vulnerable. "What's your plan, Father?"
Onoki's eyes sparkled with determination. "Gather our squads, Kurotsuchi. I want them to meet Lord Mui of Kusa at Hozuki Castle. We must discuss the situation and how we can take advantage of Konoha's vulnerability."
Kurotsuchi couldn't help but be curious. "Why are we meeting Lord Mui of Kusa, Father? What can he offer us?"
Onoki, ever the tactician, replied, "Lord Mui is a shrewd and resourceful man. He may have knowledge and resources that can be of use to us. We must explore every avenue to strengthen Iwagakure."
While they prepared to carry out their orders, Kitsuchi, a trusted advisor, approached Onoki. "Tsuchikage-sama, may I ask why we are considering the Blood Prison as a stronghold for the upcoming war?"
Onoki turned to Kitsuchi, appreciating his thoroughness. "The Blood Prison is a remote and secure location. If we establish a stronghold there, it's known for being a formidable would be an excellent base for our forces, far from prying eyes. We will be able to hold prisoners of war and interrogate any Konoha forces we capture in upcoming battles."
Kitsuchi nodded, understanding the strategic importance of such a move. "I see, Tsuchikage-sama. It will certainly bolster our position in the upcoming conflict."
Finally, Onoki turned his attention to a messenger hawk, preparing a message to the Raikage in Kumogakure. The Third Tsuchikage knew the importance of forming alliances in times of war. His aged hands moved with a purpose, grabbing a scroll and detailing a proposal to destroy the Hidden Leaf.
"Kumogakure would be a strong and reliable ally," he explained to Kurotsuchi, who watched with admiration as his father's experience and wisdom were put to work. "We will request an alliance with the Raikage. Surely A will be itching for a reason to go to war after the Hyuuga incident all those years ago."
With the message securely fastened to the hawk, Onoki released it into the sky, watching as it disappeared into the distance, bearing the plea for an alliance with Kumogakure. The old Tsuchikage was determined to secure Iwagakure's future and exact revenge on Konohagakure in the process.
"Does it not make more sense to strike swiftly while the Leaf might not be expecting it? We could surely gain the upper hand and end the war before it truly begins" Kurotsuchi asked.
Onoki looked to his son and sighed softly, "As much as I would like to, clearly Tsunade has a shinobi in her ranks that rivals even the leaders of the Akatsuki. We should still tread carefully, but I think we should set our sights on their rebuilding efforts until we hear from the Raikage."
The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon as Naruto and Kakashi returned to the Hidden Leaf Village after their week-long patrol mission along the border. They made their way to the Hokage's office to report to Tsunade about the mission and their significant findings.
Tsunade was sitting at her desk, going over various documents when they entered. She looked up and gave them a nod of acknowledgment. "Naruto, Kakashi, I trust your patrol mission went smoothly. What did you find out there?"
Naruto spoke up, his usual enthusiasm shining through. "We encountered a squad of Iwa shinobi on our side of the border, Tsunade-baachan. They were acting suspiciously and likely spying on the village. We engaged them and eliminated the threat."
Tsunade's expression turned serious. "I see. We can't afford to underestimate Onoki, especially after what he's been doing. We must assume he's aware of our weakened state, thanks to the recent attack by Pein. We need to be prepared for them to declare war and potentially attack the village or our supply lines."
Naruto's face grew stern as he thought about the possibility of war. "We'll be ready, Tsunade-baachan! Believe it!"
Tsunade acknowledged Naruto's determination with a nod. "Good. We can't be too cautious. We also have to ensure the protection of the carpenters helping with the village's reconstruction. Onoki is a cunning but cutthroat strategist, he will likely see them as a perfect target. Shizune, make sure to assign a squad to escort materials from the Land of Waves."
Shizune nodded and took note of Tsunade's orders, ready to execute them promptly.
With their mission report delivered, Tsunade turned her attention to Kakashi. "Naruto, you're dismissed. Good work on the mission."
Naruto gave a respectful nod and exited the office, leaving Tsunade and Kakashi alone.
Tsunade leaned back in her chair and observed Kakashi thoughtfully. "Kakashi, I'd like to hear your perspective on how Naruto handled the mission."
Kakashi, ever the cool and collected ninja, offered his assessment with his usual calm demeanor. "Naruto showed great tactical awareness and restraint, Tsunade. He didn't rush into the situation blindly and carefully considered the potential repercussions. It's clear he's been learning from his past experiences and training. He utilized his sensory abilities from sage mode to keep tabs on the enemy during the conflict with the Iwa squad, and made quick work of the targets he was responsible for."
Tsunade's lips curled into a small smile as she listened to Kakashi's praise. "I'm glad to hear that. Naruto has come a long way. He's shaping up to be one of our finest shinobi."
Kakashi nodded in agreement. "Indeed, he's showing great promise and leadership skills. He's not the same brash kid we once knew."
Tsunade shifted her focus to more pressing matters. "We'll need Naruto's growth and leadership in the days to come. As for you, Kakashi, you've been an essential mentor for him. I'm sure that you've been training him in more than just combat. Continue guiding him, and keep an eye on him. I'm worried about him with Jiraiya gone."
Kakashi nodded and gave a rare but warm smile. "Of course, Tsunade. He seems to be taking everything in stride for now. I'll make sure Naruto is well-prepared for whatever comes our way."
Tsunade's expression grew resolute. "That's what I like to hear, Kakashi. Dismissed."
As Kakashi left Tsunade's office, he couldn't help but reflect on the weight of the situation. The village was on edge, and the looming threat of war meant that every member of the Leaf had to be at their best. He was determined to ensure that Naruto was prepared to face the challenges ahead and protect the village he held dear.
A week had gone by after Naruto and Kakashi gave their report to Tsunade. The brilliant sun hung high in the cloudless sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets of the Hidden Leaf Village. Naruto's stomach rumbled loudly as he headed towards the familiar Ichiraku Ramen shop. Its red lanterns gently swayed in the breeze. He pushed the door open with a grin and was greeted by the familiar warmth of Teuchi's ramen stand.
"Naruto, my boy, you're back!" Teuchi exclaimed, his wrinkled face breaking into a warm smile. "What can I get you today?"
Naruto took a seat at the counter, eager for his favorite meal. "The usual, Teuchi-san! And make it a double order, I'm starving!"
Teuchi chuckled as he began preparing Naruto's ramen. "Four bowls of miso pork with extra pork belly coming right up. You deserve it, especially after saving the village from Pein."
Naruto scratched the back of his head with a soft smile, "Well, you know, it's all in a day's work for a shinobi."
Teuchi placed the first bowl of steaming ramen in front of Naruto, and they both laughed. "Don't be so modest, Naruto. It's good to see the village's hero still enjoying a simple bowl of ramen."
"I'll always come in for ramen, you know that!" Naruto laughed, "You were one of the first people to really accept me, Teuchi-san. I'll always be grateful for that, and no matter how much things change I'll never forget that."
"Don't mention it," Teuchi said with a warm smile. "What matters now is how many new customers I've gotten with the famous Hero of the Leaf eating here!"
Ino paused outside Ichiraku Ramen, drawn by the sound of Naruto's hearty laughter. She hadn't seen the whisker-faced blonde in weeks and couldn't resist the urge to see him. She pushed open the door, a bright smile on her face. "Hey there, Naruto! What's got you in such a good mood?"
Naruto turned and waved her over to the counter "Hi Ino! Been a while! Teuchi-san, can we have an extra bowl of ramen over here?"
Teuchi nodded and quickly prepared a bowl of ramen for Ino as well. "Coming right up!"
"So, how've you been Naruto? I haven't seen you since you mentioned you had a patrol mission."
Naruto grinned at her. "Yeah, I just got back with Kakashi-sensei. We took care of some trouble along the border."
Ino raised an eyebrow. "A mission with Kakashi-sensei, huh? Sounds like an interesting team-up."
Naruto nodded. "Yeah, it was great. It reminded me of old times, I'm learning a lot from him."
Teuchi refilled Naruto's bowl and placed one down in front of Ino. She giggled as Naruto dove into his refill as if he'd been fasting for weeks. Ino took a bite and enjoyed the delicious taste. "Speaking of missions, Shikamaru, Choji, and I are headed to the Land of Waves soon. I remember you went there years ago. What was it like?"
Naruto's expression turned nostalgic as he remembered his earlier mission to the Land of Waves. "The Land of Waves, huh? I haven't been back in a long time. Well, it's a beautiful place surrounded by the ocean. It was the first time I'd left the village. We had quite the adventure there."
Ino was intrigued. "Really? I've heard bits and pieces. Sakura mentioned it a little when we were younger but never told me all the details"
Naruto leaned back in his stool, lost in the memories. "It was a tough mission. We went there to protect a bridge builder, Tazuna. But things got complicated when we faced off against some rogue ninja hired by Gato to assassinate Tazuna. We ended up fighting against one of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Zabuza and his partner Haku."
Ino's eyes widened. "Zabuza and Haku? I've heard some old stories about the seven swordsmen being incredibly strong. That must've been intense being fresh out of the academy."
Naruto nodded. "Yeah, it was. We had some fierce battles. Kakashi-sensei actually got captured by Zabuza! Sasuke and I ended up freeing him with some quick thinking. We had thought Kakashi-sensei defeated Zabuza after, but it turned out that his partner Haku saved him and tricked us. Eventually we fought them again, and Sasuke and I nearly died. Gato ended up betraying Zabuza, and both he and Haku ended up losing their lives. It was during that mission that I learned something important. It's when people are protecting something truly precious to them that they become strong."
Ino couldn't help but be moved by Naruto's words. "That's a lot, Naruto. I didn't realize you and Sakura went through all that."
Naruto's gaze turned resolute. "It is. It's one of the things that drives me to become stronger every day."
Ino smiled, touched by Naruto's determination. "Thanks for sharing, Naruto."
Naruto smiled softly, "Anytime, Ino." His thoughts drifted to the seemingly inevitable conflict between Iwa. "You should be careful during your mission, Ino. You never know what could come up."
Ino's eyes sparkled with amusement as she retorted, "Don't assume I'm weak just because you saved us from Pein. I can handle myself, Naruto." A playful punch landed gently on his arm, her smirk alive with mischief. "But thanks, I'll be careful."
Chuckling, Naruto reached and rubbed the back of his head. "I'm just looking out for you!"
Naruto savored the last few bites of ramen, appreciating the familiarity of the place and the comfort it brought him. As he finished the last slurp of noodles, he wiped his mouth with a satisfied grin.
As their conversation drew to a close, Naruto pushed away the empty ramen bowl, "I better get going, Ino," he said, standing up and reaching for his headband. "I have some training to do, I'm almost at a breakthrough with a new jutsu. I can feel it."
"Okay, thanks for letting me eat with you. It was nice catching up." Ino said with a smile. "We should have lunch again when I get back from the Land of Waves."
"That sounds wonderful, Ino. Hopefully your mission goes smoother than mine did!" Naruto laughed.
"Great, it's a date!" Ino said with a playful smirk, before giving the blonde man a quick hug and quickly leaving the ramen stand. "You better show me that jutsu once you figure it out!"
"A date...with Ino?" Naruto muttered to himself, his eyes widening with surprise, yet a sheepish grin tugged at the corners of his lips.
'Maybe Kakashi-sensei is right about not wasting time…'
And scene! Thanks again for reading, and I hope to update you all soon!
