Tales Of The Warring States Era

by Freestyle 763

Growing up in the Era Of The Warring States is hell on earth. One is trained to be a weapon of mass destruction with chakra and nothing more. Alliances are forged, that transcend time. This is a story of those who rise, fall, and endure in this era. AU.

106. Indent

"Love breeds sacrifice...Which breeds hatred...Then you can know pain"

Nagato

---

Despite being idealistic in nature, he knew more than well enough that he wasn't going to be leaving that evening. His father trained him in the art of war, for the most part. Jutsus, combat, killing, deceit, and his father taught him all of that.

His mother and the Senju assisting her taught him, and all of the children basic knowledge such as math, writing, reading, manners, etiquette, how to be a proper men, women, and human beings.

He knew that even if he were to plan to leave so early, at this time of day, the currents were far too strong.

He needed Hisao's and the Uzumaki's blessing to leave, as there were seals everywhere, and nothing got in or out without their saying so...

It'd be rude to leave so abruptly.

He also needed to learn more from Hisao, and continue helping the Uzumaki fortify their homeland just in case they were to be under attack.

He wanted to be confident that he'd be able to support them when and if an attack does occur, but nothing was ever certain.

It was certain they'd be attacked, but his assertion in the situation was up in the air. Though, he would definitely try to assist in every possible way he could think of.

That being said, he remained hard at work. The Senju and Uzumaki were distant relatives, as was the norm thought, but that didn't mean they were chummy. They remained neutral for the most part, with some members marrying each other in the past. The Uzumaki provided them with seals, and exotic goods, as well as special herbs and medicines that made up some bulk of the Senju's medical expertise. In return the Senju gave them protection, left them alone, and during times of crisis, provide support.

Certainly relations soured between the Uzumaki and Senju when his father took the helm as leader. His father had an extremely disparaging outlook on clans and people in general, he believed only violence and slaughter could bring peace, and he on more than one occasion insulted the Uzumaki. He believed that the Senju were far superior to the Uzumaki.

Hisao had been relatively young when his father took the helm, though he was still older than Butsuma by some decades. He couldn't remember either of them coming to blows, though Hisao hadn't held back in his remarks to his father. He'd rarely seen his father so irate over something as petty as words, but those words Hisao spoke cut Butsuma worse than any sword could.

'The Senju who believe in love, are mere hypocrites. You go against the very things you stand for, the foundation upon which the Senju was founded! Using violence and war to solve your problems, and you personify the hypocrisy.'

Hisao had said those very words, among others.

The Uzumaki weren't going to be a part of whole scale slaughter and genocide. They weren't going to have a hand in children being sent off to war at the age of seven, to be cut down, and even worse. There's no way they'd even remotely have a hand in something like that. The Uzumaki would never even consider harming a child, yet alone murdering one, or sending one into battle.

An atrocity.

A sin.

That's how the Uzumaki viewed sending children to war.

His father considered it foolish and insulting on the Uzumaki's part to not offer a hand in the war effort, being allies and all. Was insulted that they'd dare consider someone like his dead brother Kawarama and Itama, and many others to be mere children, not fully fledged shinobi. But he could understand that the Uzumaki had an aversion towards war. They didn't want to inflict pain and oppress, they didn't want to make those hard decisions that only led to bitter hatred and death.

They didn't want children murdered.

His father didn't understand.

Couldn't.

Wouldn't.

Never.

Hashirama mused this all quietly; hoping that he'd be able to repair the damage done by his father.

The Senju had once been a clan of twenty thousand members easy, even fifty thousand, and that didn't include the civilians. But, after decades of continuous war with Tajima and the Uchiha, and all the other clans in the world-the Senju dwindled down to their now roughly six thousand. His father was hell bent on war, this is where it got them in the long run, and there had never been a leader more callous and belligerent than his father.

He exhaled gently, brows creasing.

How many children had been lost?

How many families would never come to be?

An entire generation...

Generations...

Lost...

Hashirama slightly physically tired after constructing several fortresses on five islands that surrounded the Uzumaki homeland, finally sat down.

Ashina and Hisao were both with him, coordinating their efforts with his own efforts along with several hundred Uzumaki, including Mito and her sisters to speed the process of building everything along. His clones also provided assistance, hauling supplies, directing people, and setting up the foundations of everything.

The fortresses were all easily eight thousand feet in sheer height-while two fortresses were equally wide, ones width was bemusing, narrow, and almost needle like, with the base of it being wide and bulbous with several extensions branching along the sides.

What most people didn't know was that some Senju were expert archers. There were very, very few of them-even if they were a clan that was proficient in all arts, some arts strayed from them in some aspects.

In accordance to this, there were many towers throughout the Senju compound, thousands of feet, which allowed those archers to defend the compound from above and afar.

The Uzumaki didn't have any archers from what he seen, but they did use chakra chains. They wouldn't attack unless they absolutely needed to.

This would just serve as an observation tower if anything in order to relay information. It could also serve as something as a coordinate for a large scale fuinjutsu.

Since the Uzumaki didn't focus on war, their minds worked differently, and often times their simplicity was ingenious.

The complicated part was working out a sealing array that intertwined everything-a task meant solely for the Uzumaki, as the scribbling gave him a migraine. The Uzumaki sealing patterns were the most widespread, but there were other clans like the Domou, Subatsu, Nara, Red Mist, and Yuki that used a more esoteric and ancient sealing array-a polar opposite of the Uzumaki's sealing array.

"It'd bring the Uzumaki great prestige if you were to take Mito's hand in marriage."

Careful to keep his reaction relatively neutral, which wasn't very much, Hashirama looked at the older man.

He looked at Hisao more than several meters away, some Uzumaki going on boats to the other islands, and some of them were already using his literal miles long wooden bridges as walkways. Though, he would revel in such a thing normally, Ashina's statement threw him off.

Hashirama guessed a marriage was well in order; the timing was rather...Uncanny to the point of disturbing. However, during his father's reign such a thing wouldn't be possible at all. The faintest sliver or a sliver of hope for such a thing wasn't even on anyone's minds.

But, now it was.

He wanted to change things, he had to take the necessary steps, and this was one of those steps. His village would certainly benefit from the Uzumaki's expertise, and certainly they'd be a huge part of it. Marrying Mito now would most definitely seal an alliance when that time does come.

Akiko's advance still played in his mind though, and while the woman was sly and observant, she seemed to have a genuine inclination to marry him. She didn't behave like Mito at all; her eyes were wise and pointed into him—boring into his very being.

But, it'd be Mito that he would end up marrying. Amane wasn't interested in him in that regard; Akiko he couldn't really say, Miyuki and Airi were both crazy and were more fond of teasing him than anything.

It would bring him great joy, and the Senju great prestige—his village that will be founded great prestige; should he take Mito's hand in marriage. It was almost without a doubt Kumogakure would attack the Senju eventually. Tobirama's offence of the Lightning damiyo is one of the many committed by Senju throughout the hundreds of centuries. Having the Uzumaki's sealing expertise should this conflict come to pass, will also be invaluable.

"I know I have certain responsibilities. I know the Uzumaki are peace loving. I know my brother means the best, but he's too militant and rigid at times. Mito-san and my brother don't quite...Get along. Tobirama is pragmatic, and Mito is..." Hashirama started.

"Practical?" Ashina suggested.

"Yes, I thought it'd do well in favor of them working together and getting along, but I was wrong..."

Ashina almost waved his hand, had he not suppressed the urge, he most certainly would have. He could understand Hashirama's concerns and his hesitance with this. Tobirama wasn't known for feats like Hashirama-in battle, most certainly-other areas, not so much. He was diplomatic like Hashirama, but he had a harsh streak, and a great sense of pride. Tobirama was also rigid and stoic in nature.

"Hisao-dono will most certainly have Amane, Miyuki, Airi, and Akiko marry Domou. It is Miyuki's and Airi's desire, as well as Amane's. I have no problems, misgivings, or grievances about it. Even if I did they'd all be moot points, basically. The Domou is the only clan we Uzumaki still associate ourselves with. It is time that the Domou and Uzumaki regain what we lost thousands of centuries ago. However, I have a feeling Mito will be hesitant to take the same route as her sisters. She may even object a marriage to a Domou."

Hashirama blinked, and felt like something was clicking. True, he could be extremely dense, and was, but there were certain times his heart and intuition were very strong. Stronger than usual. He listened carefully during those times, sometimes just closing his eyes and feeling.

"And, Eiji?"

"Naturally. He will marry a Domou. His wife will probably be Hina."

Hashirama looked away for a second.

He pondered just why Mito would object the marriage. Mito was intelligent. She knew that these marriages were extremely important. Not only would it bring joy to Hisao, but it'd also bring the Uzumaki and Domou together. Something that hasn't happened since Rikudo knows. Perhaps she could be a little afraid of the prospect, the tides of change were raging as of late, and it'd take Mito from her comfort zone.

However, if it meant that the Uzumaki and Domou could have unions like in the past, he'd set aside his own opinions and thoughts.

Ashina's calm, but somewhat stern face relaxed as he smiled. "Your confusion is somewhat amusing, Hashirama. Mito has heard the rumors like the rest of the world has. About you wishing to found a shinobi village. Make a pact with the Fire damiyo. Your goal of cooperation has caught her attention."

Hashirama chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Something like that, I guess."

"It's her wish to support you. She seems to be really invested in your idea."

"And, Hisao-dono?"

Ashina shrugged after a second. "He hasn't commented, to be honest."

A bout of silence passed between them. Hashirama muddled in his thoughts and Ashina watching his fellow Uzumaki mill about with Hashirama's clones, remaining hard at work and putting on those last finishes. There were no children present, as they'd be too busy running around.

"I wanted to found a village to stop the conflicts...To abolish the barbarous practice of sending children to war, and to put an end to war itself..." Hashirama trailed off.

Ashina merely listened to the younger man, letting him brood and stew. The dream always was to bring world peace, but many gave up on that dream, and many more threw it away in order to get revenge. Others, like Hashirama, could spend their entire lifetime trying, and nothing ever comes from it. Hashirama wasn't giving up, but he had to reassess his reasons and desire for doing this.

Because a shinobi village being founded wasn't going to stop wars and conflict. Twenty more being founded wasn't going to stop war.

That'd just encourage it.

Hashirama wasn't going to take the most extreme approach and measures the Domou, Nara, Yamanka, Subatsu, Hagoromo, Shimura, and his own clan have when it came to this issue of conflict. They all isolated and sequestered themselves, completely reclusive and isolationist. They wanted nothing to do with the outside world. They distrusted the outside world as far as people are concerned, had a certain disdain, distrust and hatred for them, and their homes were safe havens away from the discord.

So, that could only mean Hashirama intended to cooperate with other shinobi villages-which was like a shooting star in pitch black. Nobody was considering this simple thing as Hashirama has. Mito took like a fish to water when she heard of Hashirama's ideals, but still...Hisao didn't trust the Senju, nor Hashirama entirely. His own opinion was really irrelevant next to Hisao's, but he felt he could trust the younger man.

This would be a step in the right direction.

When Hashirama's village was founded, the Uzumaki would be a huge part of it.

"However-"

Ashina blinked, jolting just the slightest.

"Now I know that stopping war as a whole is most likely impossible, but with cooperation, I think it's possible. Even if another war happens, there's the next generation to take the helm, and certainly the generation after them. Of course, ending war for good is always the objective." Hashirama continued speaking, unaware of Ashina's reaction, his eyes remaining trained on his feet.

"There can't be those generations so long as this era continues. As long as battles happen every single second, day and night, on land, water, or air, there will never be any reprieve. And I don't think shinobi villages will put an end to this warring era. It'll make it even more turbulent..."

"But, they will be what closes it." Ashina affirmed, hoping to throw away some of the doubt that was casting itself on Hashirama.

Hashirama felt himself starting to frown, and tried to correct the mistake, but couldn't. As things stood now, conflict is something that is as common as breathing or looking at a blade of grass. It just was, simple as it got. When villages are founded, that conflict would dwindle down to just a few decades in between. There'd be war, but...Not like this, not on the insane scale it's on now.

Certainly it'd remain, but it wouldn't be like now.

Mikito's words came back to assault him. Stabbing him with the voraciousness of one of Madara's fire jutsu. Her words held merit, a lot of merit, and her warnings were to be heeded. He knew that now after first hand experience. However, if he couldn't achieve peace in his lifetime...It'd be okay, because he founded the village, and there would be millions of more people to have the same dream as him. They'd take the helm when he's long passed away.

Mikito didn't share that same thought process, and it's something she had in common with Madara. They weren't going to leave it someone seventy years from now to fix the mistakes they made and right the wrongs, they'd take care of it themselves, so seventy years from now it was like iron. Unyielding like bamboo. In short, they were going to take care of things.

This also meant that should his village ever move against Mikito, Madara, or any of their descendants, there'd be war...And it'd be a war his village can't win. It'd be a massacre. Fighting the Domou...Fighting Mikito...Watching his comrades and foes alike being blasted to pieces by the Domou's strikes, by Mikito's titanic strength. There was nothing left afterwards.

It was something he dreaded...

But, he had hope that maybe...

"Are you going to hang on or let go, Hashirama?"

It wasn't a hard choice. "I believe a village is the best way to protect children, and to stop such widespread war. That will never change. I just..."

Ashina gripped Hashirama's shoulder, his experienced eyes boring into the young Senju. His next words were as stern as his facial features, as hard as his experienced eyes.

"War ending is impossible. Fate is a strange and terrible thing. There have only been two times in the shinobi's history that there was a long reign of peace. First with that Rabbit Demon of old tale, who the entire world feared. A peace that could be considered anything but. The second being Hagoromo, who would become known as Rikudo. He and his brother Hamura fought the Rabbit Demon and that beast which fed on everything, including reality itself, the fiend which wanted to destroy this world and everything alive within."

Hashirama read books and scrolls about those lost days-relegated to mere myth and tale now. He studied everything he could from those lost days, and after them, in his quest to find out where this war...Why and how it all started. He never got the answer he was looking for, but he read and seen many tales-some exaggerated, others biased, and some he wasn't too sure if he had to be honest.

There was one particular story where Rikudo separated a massive demon into twenty pieces, and turned against him in conflict. Ten more remained afterwards, who bent their knee to Rikudo. There was another one where they merged and separated several times, and during those times Rikudo had to constantly seal them back within himself-less the world is left in ruin.

He wasn't going to ponder over or sort the misinformation, disinformation, and outright lies, but there was something that held true...

During those reigns of peace, never was there a conflict, never was there enmity, never was there chaos and discord. The world was at peace, in a constant state of harmony and tranquility. During Hagoromo's time could be considered a golden era. People understood each other, didn't judge each other, accepted each other, and they only wished to help one another. They lived together, forged together, cried together, laughed together, and died together. All without ever having to speak a word.

Through their hardships and struggle, through their endless toil-they'd come together.

It wasn't until Rikudo's two sons started their battle that the entire world was plunged into darkness-the Great Separation happening shortly before or after, depending on how the tales go. Ashura was a dutiful son, kind hearted and gentle.

He was a goofball and a failure, he paled compared to his genius elder brother, Indra. But, where Indra eventually forgot the feelings of people and the true struggle...Ashura's heart was never clouded.

It was still strange as even after the two brothers worked together for years-eventually, the elder would rise up to try and take Ninshu for himself-inventing Ninjutsu, basing things off power and idealizing power. He ended up hating Ashura, cursing his name to his bitter and long death.

"Their power was unequaled, though." Hashirama murmured, eyes narrowing as he shuffled the thoughts away. "The Rabbit Demon used to be known as a goddess, but she wanted to oppress the entire world."

Even at his absolute peak he wouldn't stand a chance against Rikudo or his brother. They fought for months on end, blood was gushing from their ears, their eyes, their nose, and their mouths. Yet they continued to fight, for if they didn't-the world as everyone knew it would have ended. It would have been subjugated by that Demon, consumed by that fiend or monster.

Thanks to the brothers' efforts he was able to do this.

However, it is said that there is one rebellion which that terror could never quell...

"I don't know if I'll ever be able to come close..."

Ashina's grip tightened.

"You never believed that power is the way to peace. Certainly, you must be powerful, and you grew powerful to achieve your dream. To stop war. But, you don't believe power is everything. You don't idealize it."

Hashirama knew what he had to do. It was more than obvious what he had to do. However, he couldn't bring himself to even consider giving the answer, and couldn't bring himself to ponder the situation.

Hashirama only nodded in agreement.

"The Uzumaki believe that love is the key to peace, and not cooperation. Certainly cooperation is a means, but sometimes it's impossible for certain parties to work together, regardless of what is said to them. The Kaguya clan will never, ever, consider being allies with anyone."

Hashirama shivered the slightest.

He encountered those barbaric monsters more times than he could count growing up, and his father made it a point to head into those blood drenched islands as training for them. The Kaguya fought each other-there were constant civil wars, they were fighting the clans around them, fighting the damiyo's army, trying to kill the damiyo himself...

"True."

Even if the Kaguya clan was a rather extreme example. A clan like the Shimura would never coexist with a clan like the Sarutobi. They were polar opposites for starters, much like the Uchiha and Senju. A clan like the Nara would never coexist with a clan like the Hyuga. He could press for cooperation, but it could merely sour things.

He also wasn't doing this alone, the Fire damiyo would support him, and with that kind of support...Nothing was impossible. Perhaps Ashina was pushing for the Uzumaki to have a hand in the foundation of this village-it was the sort of thing to do. His intentions were noble and just, and it'd also keep the Uzumaki secure should things ever go wrong in their homeland.

Maybe that's what Mito wanted as well.

"Truthfully...Someone would be three times your age, twice at the very least, before ever considering these thoughts in real depth. Founding a shinobi village will be a long, slow, arduous process. There is the argument that the Uzumaki have a village, and it is true that we do, but there are only Uzumaki here. If a stranger is lost, or lost at sea, we adopt them and they become Uzumaki." Ashina stated.

Hashirama knew that someone at the age of fifty odd years wouldn't consider a truce. At that point they lost far too much, seen far too much, and endured far too much. They went mad with fury and rage, with revenge and murder. The only thing they could think about was seeing their most hated enemies, and anyone affiliated with them screaming in pain. Watching their flesh melt and stick to trees as they were burned alive.

And, it just wasn't the shinobi that felt this way. Nobody was exempt from this. Nobles could become crazed over power. Clan leaders become crazed in the name of the clan, all the while driving it into ruin. Civilians rise up and take power for themselves, killing shinobi as well. Violence is the status quo, and there was only one way to change that.

Overturn the concept completely, and to do that-there had to be force applied.

At one point he believed that if he didn't found the shinobi village of his dreams, then it was never going to happen at all. He had been severely wrong in that assessment, something born out of arrogance and ignorance. Delusion at its peak. Kumogakure would soon rise into prominence, the first shinobi village of its kind, and while it wouldn't be like the village he envisioned with Madara as children, it was still a shinobi village.

His dream.

The Lightning damiyo would never rest in maintaining his power. Arata, Hajime, Katsu, and Tunoichi backing him up-with the full bulk of their clans, excluding Arata, if he were to believe the reports and things he was being told, would make the Lightning damiyo even more bold. He may go on a conquest to take land from the Fire damiyo-he might want to expand across the entire continent.

"I have to found a shinobi village in the Fire country."

There wasn't any hesitation, doubt, trepidation, or wavering in Hashirama's tone. Before, he had desired to achieve this with Madara-they both dreamed the same dream at one point, and truthfully he still wanted Madara to be a part of it. However, he couldn't wait on Madara, and if there was really a rift within the Uchiha, and there are now two sects-it could mean another splinter will occur.

It happened in the past, and he wasn't going to be foolish enough to say it wouldn't happen again.

Madara swallowed his pride, and did what was right for the children and the next generations of Uchiha. He didn't adhere to the typical Uchiha mindset; that would see an all out war between their clans. Anyone else involved would be killed as well. The Uchiha were selfish, they didn't care that their exploits, and everything else that they did came at the expense of everyone else. Madara didn't do that, though.

He did the opposite.

He took a different route.

It was a little too early to jump to such a conclusion, but-there were Uchiha that resented Izuna, and it was well known he was an advocate behind the Domou and Uchiha alliance from the beginning. Madara wouldn't stand for anyone resenting Izuna, he just wouldn't. In the same way Tobirama wouldn't stand for anyone disrespecting him, Madara was the same with Izuna.

Always trying to be tough... Hashirama thought with some mirth, remembering their time spent together as children-Madara always trying to save face and act cool. Madara had always been extremely sensitive and perceptive, and a bit of a goof...He was good deep down inside, and loved his brother dearly.

There was hope!

Another bout of silence passed between the two men.

"Indeed, you will have to. There's no other choice. Turbulent times are coming very soon, and even the Uzumaki will not be able to avoid the storm that is coming, nor the Domou and Subatsu...Clans vs villages, and the Water damiyo declaring war on the entire world, and those clans in the Water country rampaging. Do you understand what is going to happen?" Ashina's tone was as stony as his expression.

Hashirama felt the wind leave him. "Half of the world, the clans, and people in it will burn..."

"A kind, but shallow way of saying children, toddlers, and infants will be slaughtered. All for a village. All for a clan. For no reason."

All the hairs on Hashirama's body stood on end.

"I would never-"

"If a clan doesn't join your village, and those in your village clamor for action against them what will you do? What will you do when Sasuke Sarutobi is breathing down your neck? The Sarutobi will certainly be a part of your village, and that means the Nara clan will definitely be a part of it. The Akimichi clan and Hatake clan will be a part of it. And, they are not the only ones."

Hashirama sucked in a breath, heart frantic, his eyes couldn't focus.

He was overwhelmed.

"If you don't take action against that particular clan not joining your village, they will all lose faith in you. Will you be able to please all of them without slighting another? Petty grudges and old feuds will never fade. They've murdered each other's children, sent their own children to war, and their children were killing each other. What if the Fire damiyo wants you to take action? Arata, Hajime, Tunoichi, and Katsu all made a pact with the Lightning damiyo-yet they had to differ to him for funds, he ceded them land, he gave them supplies and manpower. When he orders them to attack, they will, rest assured."

Ashina crossed his arms over his chest, eyes darting towards Hisao. His leader seemed content to stay at work and direct traffic, as Uzumaki were coming and going. Only himself and Hashirama were resting for the most part, though they were a good distance away from the others. They couldn't possibly hear their conversation at the moment, and it isn't why he looked towards his leader in the first place.

Certainly Hashirama isn't vindictive like Butsuma. I still wish to observe him. He may not be like his father in that aspect, but in others...

Ashina shuffled the memory away-what Hisao told him yesterday before he retired for the night. Hisao would never turn someone away, less the Uzumaki were threatened. Hashirama wasn't a threat. That didn't mean Hisao was going to drop his guard-they were still shinobi after all. The Uzumaki were pacifists, but they were wild and rowdy. They didn't take orders from anyone. Uchiha or Senju.

They know how things worked.

Every shinobi is taught that in order to save a life, one must be taken. The clan means everything. The members don't matter, but the clan itself. To hate other clans, that is the goal. It was indoctrination at its finest-and all clans save for the Domou, Subatsu, and his own were subject to his indoctrination or programming as some liked to call it.

"Will you leave Uzushiogakure in peril should villages team up and attack us? Will you put the village before the clans and people that make it up in the first place? Will you sacrifice those people for the sake of the village? Will you kill a child or your own brother should they threaten the village? For the village? Should it benefit the village, will you do it? Will you give the order to wipe out a clan or clans, should they not join your village?"

Hisao was no fool. The Uzumaki enjoyed their isolation and independence. They weren't going to bow down to anyone or submit. If Hisao perceived Hashirama as a threat in the future; there is no doubt he would be taking measures to vanquish that threat. Hisao spent many days and nights battling beasts and monstrosities that could consume the Bijuu-though the Bijuu would blast their way out, it was true nonetheless.

Ashina just had a good feeling about Hashirama-the young man seemed genuine and compassionate. The only person he seen in a similar light was Mikito, and that's because of her sincerity. However, he had to acknowledge Hisao's wariness of the young man-it wasn't unwarranted by any means.

"I..." Hashirama couldn't form words, unsure. Shaken. He'd never kill a child for the Senju clan, but what if...Would he become just like his father in that regard? That same rigid stubbornness...

Sending a child to war, ill prepared.

"I don't think of you in a bad light." Ashina clarified.

"Then..."

"My questions are concerning the future, decades from now. We Uzumaki take these things into account when we consider possible alliances. Long term. Shinobi villages will continue to be founded, Kumogakure was just the first. It's only a matter of time before those villages start going to war over resources and land. There's still clans, as well, and certainly clans won't stand for villages encroaching on their land and trying to take their resources. They're not going to stand for village conflicts sweeping into their domains. Vice versa and so forth."

Hashirama kept his eyes steady on Ashina. "An equalizer."

Ashina shrugged. "Of all the damiyos-the Fire damiyo is the most pacifistic, it's one of the reasons we Uzumaki have kept somewhat close ties with them through the centuries, offering our seals. Kumogakure isn't the village that you envisioned, Hashirama. I highly doubt Iwagakure or Kirigakure will be like the village you envisioned. That you are willing to risk your life to see come to reality."

He never took things for granted, but Hashirama was eternally grateful Tobirama was still alive. Tobirama would definitely know what to do, he'd be able to put it all on paper in such a fashion that it'd all fit together. He seen things in the bigger picture while Tobirama focused on those subtle, careful details that knit all of it together.

"I may be able to prevent war, and my brother may be able to...but..." Hashirama trailed off, not entirely sure who would take the mantle after them, or if they'd be able to handle those types of decisions. If they'd make the right choice.

It finally clicked within Hashirama's mind. Mito wanted to marry him, so she'd be able to support him, as well as the Uzumaki. It hadn't been his first thought, but Ashina's usage of the word 'invested' made him think along that direction.

Was Ashina wary of Mikito and the Domou-was he trying to secure the Uzumaki with him, rather than going the route Hisao was going?

Or could it be by having both of these marriages-the Uzumaki were covered from all sides and secure.

They did put their longevity and peace above everything else.

Hashirama wasn't sure-it'd just add to his migraine.

He didn't want to ask either.

"Thank you, Ashina-san..." The younger Senju trailed off. "I have one question."

"Hm?"

"Well, your clan is on good terms with the Domou, but not the Subatsu?"

Ashina chuckled softly. "That's not the case-we are all rowdy and wild clans. True, the Domou and Subatsu are austere, but they are wild and rowdy, even more than us at times. We're just...Different when it comes to things of this nature."

Hashirama nodded-what happened between the Uzumaki, Domou, and Subatsu-stayed between them. As well as the clans they were involved with.

Taking a deep breath, Hashirama spoke carefully. "If it is Mito's desire then I will not refuse...I'll have to speak with my brother and Council first, of course, but I will be the first to admit that having the Uzumaki as founders of our shinobi village is beyond beneficial and brings me relief."

"We'd be honored. I will speak to Hisao-dono." Ashina nodded, his expression giving nothing away.

Hashirama wondered once more, if this was a way to secure the Uzumaki from all sides. It was starting to look that way, and with a storm just over the horizon...

Before either of them could continue several loud shouts reached their ears.

The timing couldn't be more perfect, or worse.

"Ashina-san! Hashirama!"

"Come on!"

"We're opening barrels of sake and the home brew to celebrate!"

"There's more people coming!"

"I'm getting you drunk, Hashi-kun!"

Hashirama almost jumped out of his skin as Miyuki came flying before him with the widest grin on her face, before she yanked him off of the ground. He was shocked by her speed first, and her strength second.

"Come, Hashirama. There's plenty for you to indulge as well. Don't be shy or modest." Honami said with a pleasant smile as she beckoned him to the party, once he was close enough she tugged him along.

There were several Uzumaki trying to slam gallons of sake and their home brew all at once-only one succeeded while the rest stumbled and fell.

Others were stuffing their faces with food.

Some were stuffing their faces with food and sake.

Hashirama couldn't decline the kind woman's offer. He just hoped he didn't make a fool out of himself. But, seeing the Uzumaki getting more and more crazy by the second, he got the feeling he'd be rather tame in comparison. Miyuki immediately shoved him into a barrel of sake head first before dumping it over on its side-remarkably enough, a few Uzumaki joined him, plugging the hole completely.

He tried not to choke and gag on the strong liquid.

"Miyuki!" Mito all but snapped, hastily pulling Hashirama out of the sake before he drowned in it. She didn't hesitate to smack her sister upside the head. Several Uzumaki were quick to indulge in the sake regardless of what happened, and another challenge took place. Drink as much as much as possible while lasting longer than everyone else.

Some started laughing at the scene happening before them.

"Do you not think?" Mito shook Miyuki violently before shoving her back.

"I can spend time with him too, Mito." Miyuki teased, easily doing a back handspring and giving Hashirama a wink.

Feeling a little more loose than before, Hashirama grinned back. Miyuki's bright and energetic eyes bored into him, as did her lively smile. She was just a bundle, oddly reminding him of Ahiko and Usagi. "You're nice, Miyuki-san."

"Ah, ah." Miyuki wagged her finger, a coy smile coming on her face. "You are a handsome man, but I am not like Mito. I have high standards, not saying you're a low life. I'd rock your six foot world and ride you like a canoe."

"Huh? Canoe?" Hashirama blinked a few times, bemused.

"That's Miyuki for you. No shame." A woman in her twenties with bright blue eyes quipped.

"How about you ask Mito. I'm sure my sister would love to give you a demonstration."

"You vulgar little-" Mito was almost as bright as the sun, ready to pounce on her sister and beat her within an inch of her life.

Eiji spun her around, cutting her off, and directed her towards Amane and a group of women.

Miyuki flew towards Airi and Akiko.

At his sister's glare, Eiji returned one of his own. "You take yourself too serious, Mito."

Several Uzumaki spit out their drink, while some just erupted in laughter. Others looked at Miyuki with barely concealed aghast, appalled with her crude way of speaking.

"Careful Hashirama." A few younger women told him, though the grins on their faces were something close to lecherous. "We Uzumaki are wild and rowdy, and we let loose at parties...I wonder how powerful you are."

Eiji sighed softly, annoyed with Mito's sudden outbursts of jealousy. It wasn't becoming of an Uzumaki to exhibit such behavior. Miyuki and her folly wasn't any better, as the girl seemed to want to provoke Mito-which happened since they were children, but there was a crux now. Hashirama. In any case, he had to get Mito away from Miyuki.

Now these women...

Hashirama was tall and strong, his skin was tanned very dark, and his hair was like a curtain. His eyes shined with compassion, but a strong will, more than anything. For Uzumaki-they could pick up on such things, and for the women...

"I don't usually fight women." Hashirama said softly.

One of the woman grinned, eyeing Hashirama up like a predator does its prey, and she showed her teeth. "We're going to struggle, but in a different sort of way."

Eiji saved Hashirama from another flustering remark-they went a few meters away. Eiji leaned himself up against a tree, and Hashirama sat down.

"I drank too much." Hashirama groaned-his heart was thundering.

Eiji gave him a blank look as he finished pouring them both a cup of sake.

Hashirama took the cup regardless of his current condition.

"I usually enjoy sake alone, in silence. I usually drink at night, sitting on my windowsill, and watching the stars above." Eiji mused, taking a long sip.

Hashirama took a sip, absorbing the younger man's words. "You're not one for crowds, huh?"

"Too much noise." Eiji shrugged, sitting down with his legs crossed.

Hashirama took note of their distance from the others-it wasn't extremely far, but they were in their own bubble so to speak. He could see Tobirama doing something similar, but he'd likely go indoors, rather than move over somewhere else like Eiji did. Though, it could be said Eiji moved here, because moving indoors would have caused more than a few of the women present to get obscene ideas.

"What are you looking at!?"

Eiji nudged Hashirama on the shoulder-the older man was entranced with the scene going on. There were about two dozen Uzumaki arguing with each other, and the women looked ready to tear into each other.

"We're going to stay here for now, unless you feel the need to get in the middle of that." Eiji tossed away his cup, and took to drinking the sake through a large cocoanut he kicked off the tree before he settled himself down.

Hashirama shook his head quickly. He had no desire to step between those fearsome woman-their hair was waving all around them as if they were in the middle of a chakra storm, but he couldn't feel them exerting any chakra at all.

"Want to gamble?" Hashirama asked, a sneaky grin crossing his face.

He quickly unsealed an entire gambling table, complete with everything that'd be found in the gambling halls of every village or country. Tobirama would certainly reproach him for his misuse of fuinjutsu.

Eiji smirked for a second, slipping a hand into his pockets. He pulled out a stack of gold coins-ryo. "I'm game. We'll start with ten ryo, each time we raise it by one hundred."

"That means the second round will be for 1000 ryo." Hashirama felt like his skin was going to rip off his face.

His grin was so wide.

"Just wait until people come over here and investigate-there might be one trillion ryo here."

To Eiji's shock Hashirama bellowed with laughter, mouth opened as far as it could go-like many of the Uzumaki present. He just hadn't been expecting such a display out of Hashirama, his brethren, well bellowing laughter was hardly even considered mild. That was normal.

"Let's do this!"

---

Haji knew something was wrong. Something was off. His strides weren't off. It wasn't the granola he was eating. It wasn't the squishing of the undergrowth that gave slightly to his weight. It was the Hyuga.

"We're going to stop and set up camp, Tsugi, bring the reinforcements here." Haji said concisely.

Eshi-a lean black furred wolf move his head in agreement. "I'll go with him so he doesn't get distracted."

Tsugi grunted in mild annoyance.

He had all of the Subatsu summon their wolf companions

They set up camp with the reinforcements that would have been called in, should the situation call for it. Tsugi returned in less than an hour with the reinforcements. He had all of the Subatsu summon their wolf companions that hadn't yet and then began spacing out their large attack force for the moment throughout the thickly woven trees of the forests that made up the Fire country.

Though they were barren of life, the branches remained strong, blanketed in white blankets, as more white fluff continued to fall. The boles remained unyielding despite the bitter winds.

Everyone either sat down, or began the process of getting out tents or something to make a shelter with and started to construct it. Others gathered wood to start fires, bringing it back in bundles, and then began to eat what they stored in seals. Some of the food could be cooked, or tasted better cooked, so they cooked it. Others just snaked or nibbled on their rations.

The reinforcements consisted of three thousand Subatsu and Mō shinobi and kunoichi, along with the Subatsu's dogs-not ninken, but normal dogs, all varying in kind from Basenji, Akita, Pitbull, Doberman, German Shepard, Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Chihuahua and everything in between, large and small, massive, muscular, and lean, tall, and there were millions of them.

For every person present there were roughly ten dogs, forty, one hundred, three hundred even, wasn't a stretch to say.

One thousand wasn't even a stretch.

Keeping them all under control would normally be a problem, but they were all very well trained and their wolf companions were able to commune with them, as they were animals. More importantly they remembered that it was them and the Domou that saved them from their torment; healing, feeding, and giving them love when no one else even considered to do it.

Some of the dogs were resting, eating, and mingling with each other as well as the humans present. Some relieved themselves, and just about all of them threw themselves into the snow.

Some took the time to sleep, if only lightly, and others just sniffed around. They looked every bit of normal, and were, but their muscles were rippling, their bodies were unyielding, and a power exuded from them like many of the creatures that prowled through the jungles, like the trees and plants that tangled themselves in a plexus of jungles.

They all stayed within a relative close range of each other in case someone began to talk, with some shinobi and kunoichi starting doing routine sweeps of the area with the dogs and wolves.

There were roughly six thousand, almost seven thousand shinobi and kunoichi with him in total, all trained and powerful, there were division leaders as well in the mix. Their wolf companions and dogs were far more numerous, and it put him at some ease knowing that the numbers would eventually swing in their favor. Even if the Hyuga out numbered them by twenty thousand, most certainly...

Sitting on the ground with his legs crossed, Haji took note of his comrades and kin, his companions, and then turned his eyes onto his own companion. Uhi-his wolf companion was a female, and ironically enough was the sister of Daji. Unlike her brother, her fur was a stark gray that blended in well with the bright, but cloudy sky beaming above them. Her eyes were a shining blue, and her build was powerful, though not massive like the male wolves.

She also wasn't nearly as gruff as Daji.

The Hyuga compound was more than a few thousand miles away, but no more than forty, and it'd take a good while to get there. There wasn't any need to rush there, or sprint at full speed. The showdown was imminent. No matter how fast or slow they moved, this battle was going to happen.

Running full speed would only wind some people, some wolves, and the dogs, though they latter two would remain tenacious. The Hyuga were infamous for their tall guard towers, and many didn't dare to encroach on their land due to this. Though, it could be argued the longer they take to get there, the more time they're giving the Hyuga, but Daiki would run through all of his contingencies than prepare himself to take victory.

In this case he'd be tasting death instead of victory.

Daiki and his forces were either going to surround them completely by luring them into the compound, or they were going to be front and center near the entrance, ready for a battle. Either way, the end result was going to be his forces being surrounded by the Hyuga, but that's why there'd be a focus on damaging the Hyuga compound itself. The Hyuga would need to triple time in that case. They'd need to chase them, attack, defend, and defend the compound at the same time.

He always followed his instincts.

They could take their time for the moment until night fell.

"Ji-san." Uhi spoke, voice somewhat soft in comparison to Ebisu or Daji, cut through Haji's train of thought. Her clear blue eyes peered at Haji as she ruffled her thick fur. "Are you troubled?"

"I don't think the Hyuga are going to send out their waves."

Uhi looked at him for a moment before speaking. "Eshi was saying something like that. He has their scent, but it seems they're all grouped together in one place, in the far distance. Hard to believe he's Tsugi's companion. We're camped here at the moment because of what he mentioned. Ebisu and some of the others conceded with his point."

"Does the plan need to be reworked?"

Uhi considered the question. "No, the pronged attack will just consist of sweeping around the Hyuga compound, with two units coming in from blind spots."

Haji quickly stepped towards Syrus, Uhi trailing at his side. His brother was speaking with Nao, Ayako, Yamaguchi, and several others, including the wolf summonings.

"The Hyuga are aiming for a head on collision with us."

Syrus nodded, though his eyes remained trained on the close distance for the most part. "I'm not sensing any of their attack waves, I guess Daiki is serious. That means we'll just use the pronged attack to sweep the compound, however that means that one group will need to be the ones to start it. It doesn't need to be too massive."

Ebisu growled while shaking his head. "The first group will be the one to bust into the compound, therefore, it needs to be the largest. While everyone else will damage the walls and towers, drawing the Hyuga's attention."

"A frontal attack?" Junko mused softly.

"It should be able to clog them up...The Hyuga only have one entrance, while most clans have two or three that are somewhat a secret." Itsumi conceded with a nod, crossing her slender arms across her ample bust.

"The groups that sweeps around the sides should be able to overwhelm any Hyuga coming out with enough ease." Nobu said.

Ayako waved her hand. "But, we'll get clogged ourselves at the entrance."

"Spread out once you get around the entrance." Eshi suggested.

"That'll do." Ebisu agreed.

Nagakura cracked his neck. "We'll do damage to the compound ourselves."

"We're just not focused on the Hyuga. We're going to damage to their compound as well." Tsugi added.

Silence.

"We can spread ourselves out. One group will come in through a blind spot." Yamaguchi concluded, breaking the awkward pause.

"Make it two. I'll lead one of them." Nao said quickly, turning her eyes onto Nobu.

"I'm with you." Nobu nodded quickly.

"And, what if the Hyuga form a barrier around their compound?" Seiichi raked a hand through his hair, sighing as he clarified. "What if Daiki and all of his forces are surrounding the compound?"

"That'll be a problem." Daji mused. "Daiki will be standing at the head, our pronged attacks won't do much in that case."

Usagi rubbed her chin. "We'll improvise, we're still a great distance away from the Hyuga compound. That just leaves the question. Who's in the first group?"

"I figure you can decide that among yourselves." Yume-Osen's summoning, a white wolf said. Her tone was soft betraying her powerful and spry build.

"Daiki is anticipating an attack, either way. We just have to win at this point. Kill Daiki. If he lives this will just continue. He isn't like Hajime, he doesn't have a greater aim to form some stupid shinobi village." Ebisu added brusquely, slamming his paw on the ground.

A few wolves and people shook their heads, not impressed with Ebisu's brusque demeanor.

"Kicking up dust again." Eshi muttered, giving Ebisu a weary gaze.

"He does have a point though." Syrus nodded at Ebisu-the wolf's eyes softened just the slightest. "We have to put an end to this."

"I'm in the first group." Todou said before anything else could be brought forward. His tone breaking no argument on the matter. "I think we should have a group that prioritizes killing Daiki."

"It goes without saying that I am in the first group." Shizuku said, eyes slightly narrowed as she stayed just a few inches from Syrus, facing him.

Syrus nodded, not going to argue with either of them. He appreciated Todou's initiative and prudence when it came to killing Daiki. He wasn't going to collide with Shizuku. His eyes skimmed through the ranks present. He'd need heavy hitters considering they'd be the group to lead the charge, but he couldn't take the most powerful and swiftest. Those most powerful and swiftest would be the ones closing in around the Hyuga compound once the attack begins.

"I'm going as well." Daisuke said, tone as frosty as his gaze.

Kimie gave Okito a strong look, and he returned it with a strong nod of his own.

"Usagi. Nagakura. Kayoko. Asuna. Asuko. Shoji. Rokuro. Shinji. Ayume. Daisuke. Itsume. Junko." Syrus fired the names off, looking at all those he mentioned.

"Right." Nagakura nodded strongly.

"I got it." Itsume said, maintaining a calm air.

"I'm with you all the way, brother." Usagi said quickly.

Everyone else settled on nodding.

"Todou, I figured I would leave the selection process to you in the unit that will prioritize Daiki's demise." Syrus remarked.

The older man nodded, eyes sweeping around for a quick second. "Yamaguchi. Seiichi. Ayako. I'll need ten more shinobi and kunoichi as well."

"Right." Ayako nodded at him.

Haji smirked for a second. "Osen will be with me. A clone of her will be with you, Todou. Its weapons will be coated in poison, it may take a while to have an effect on Daiki, so be sure to nik and cut him minutely. Tsugi and Ryoku; you both to lead your own units."

"I thought you forgot about me for a second." Ryoku quipped.

A few people present snorted.

"These Hyuga have had it coming." Tsugi said, normally laid back, his tone and flinty glare would confuse many at the moment.

With nods, grunts, and murmurs of agreement-everyone set about getting organized and sealing their things away. They'd move as one unit until they got near the entrance of the Hyuga compound, then they'd disperse, taking some Hyuga with them in every direction.

Haji took a deep breath, centering his mind.

The chaos and frenzy of the attack would overwhelm the Hyuga. True they had the Byakugan, but when there was extreme movements going on, explosions, and everything else, it could disorient the Hyuga. The enhanced vision the Byakugan granted could be its number one drawback if one had the cunning to exploit it. Raiton jutsu being one. Just a flash was enough, and it could be worse for Uchiha.

Nodding to himself, Haji cleared his mind of everything, pressing his emotions and sensibility into an invisible jar before corking it and dropping it into the furthest depths of his mind. Emotions were a hindrance in battle, those who hesitate, hold back, doubt, and even second guess themselves will all be slain. There are no victors in war or the battlefield, only death.

Death without victory, victory in name only.

The creed of the Subatsu.

"Daiki believes this is a battle to prove who is superior. We don't care about that, this battle is only about one thing for us." Haji pulled out a white garb-Hyuga attire.

Everyone gathered, dogs and wolves included, howled and chorused in agreement.

"Let them get a real good sniff of the Hyuga garb." Syrus said as he pulled out bloodied Hyuga garb from a sealing scroll, calling his companions forward, many of the shinobi and kunoichi present copied his action and pulled out Hyuga garb-kept from those recently killed, and threw them on the ground to let their companions sniff them really good, or held them up so they could.

Haji snapped his fingers four times, and all of the dogs present began to bark, whine, squeal, and jump, some began to run in circles and go on their hind legs. With another snap of his fingers they quieted down. Remaining eager. Remaining ready.

"They have the Hyuga's scent now." Haji said, looking at everyone present.

They can't escape. The wolves that haven't gotten the Hyuga's scent do now." Uhi added.

Kimie felt a smile cross her face. "There's nowhere Daiki can run."

"Let's do this." Todou said determinedly, hand gripping the hilt of his sword. Daiki would die by his blade. "Watch each other's back and flanks. The Hyuga shouldn't be able to withstand our group fighting in the long run. They will still fight fiercely."

"We'll move at night, that way we have a clear shot to the compound...There won't be any interference..." Haji said, eyes narrowing as he looked behind him.

...It's best we wait to move until nightfall...

---

Mikito wasn't sure if she was better off throttling Daishiro or stomping him into oblivion. Her carnal impulse was something dully noted, and it took some of her will to restrain herself from lashing out. He had never come here alone, and Katsumi had never intended to wait to send those message. In short-despite arriving alone, there were many following behind them, and Katsumi had sent those messages just hours ago.

For the second time chaos had erupted within the Domou compound as the Kurama, Haruno, Yuhi, Namikaze, and Nohara clans all converged in near unison at the entrance, just minutes after things had been squared away with the Shimura-there was tension and suspicion hanging thick, especially coming from the leader of the Kurama clan.

She hadn't even finished reading the code to all of the Shimur before everything took a turn for the dramatic.

Heaving a breath, Mikito smoothed out the wrinkles in her kimono's sleeves. Just when she took care of one thing-Daishiro, who had been nothing short of a pain in her ass, was still just that, and he brought five problems with him. Normally, she would question why these clans all converged in near unison, but if Katsumi sent out those letters, it was more than understandable.

As the rest of their kinsmen were being taken care of-the respective leaders of the Kurama, Yuhi, Namikaze, Haruno, and Nohara clans sat around her.

Truth be told, this is the most she'd ever talked. Most of the time she was improvising battle strategies and leading the charge, not so often, did she get a chance to do something like this. It didn't bother her too much, but it brought on a different kind of exhaustion and weariness than battles. There wasn't lead arms and anvil feet, for starters.

It's something that weighed heavily on the mind and made her want to go to sleep, or just retire to center her thoughts. Things were simple with Daishiro and the Shimura, but the same couldn't be said for some of the clans gathered here. And, there was still the Terumi that she had to deal with-and that would be more than a little complicated, she was certain Izuna and Souji would be sitting in on that one.

Just like this one.

It would have been deal with these clans after the Terumi, or do it now and square things away with the Terumi. The second was by far more prudent, but a more exhausting route. Either way, she was doing the second course of action. Other than these clans, the rest of the clans in the world were all led by men or patriarchal in nature.

The Kurama clan were a clan of talented and powerful genjutsu users. They also trained in bukijutsu, ninjutsu, and taijutsu. It was said their genjutsu was so powerful that they couldn't even control it themselves, and the power would often fly out of control. It was terrible, because they could make the person feel as if it's really happening to them, and in reality they'd die. Their chakra levels were exceptional. They all had thick brown or black hair with matching eyes, and fair skin.

The hair didn't differ too greatly between the men and women-though the men were a foot taller than the woman, in some cases almost three heads.

The Namikaze were a talented and quick witted clan. They were known for their speed, swiftness, quick thinking, shurikenjutsu, kenjutsu, taijutsu, and ninjutsu. They were also one of the most agile and spry shinobi clans in the world, easily taking on groups numbering into thousands with only a dozen or so fighters. Unlike the Kurama they were physical fighters, attacking from all angles and distances-though they tended to stay within mid range and draw their opponent into a trap. Their chakra levels were exceptional. They all had fair skin, clear blue or cerulean irises, and spiky blonde hair.

The men's hair tended to be more spiky at the crown of the skull, and short, while the women's laid a bit more flat and hung down thick to their ankles.

The Haruno were a strong willed, spirited clan. They were known for the healing prowess, physical might, speed, and also their compassion. They were one of the more pacifistic shinobi clans in this gathering, alongside the Nohara. Naturally, taijutsu was where they all excelled, though many learned bukijutsu, ninjutsu, and genjutsu. They were purely physical fighters-the most physical of the group, even more than the Namikaze, preferring to get in close and slug. The men's hair varied in shades of brown as did their eyes, but remarkably all of the women had pink hair and green eyes.

The one notable thing about the Haruno was the fact they wore thick red cloths with a forehead protector. Their chakra levels were also exceptional, and some members were born with very strong chakra.

The Yuhi were a clan that were powerful and talented in genjutsu. They maintained in most of the shinobi arts so they had a balance, in case they were ever attacked. They'd be able to repel anything that came at them within reason. However, that being said-they were known for their genjutsu and subtle cunning that led many to their demise.

They weren't physical fighters when it came down to it, and preferred long range. The men and women both had thick manes of black or dark brown hair-the women's being more abundant, and they shared red eyes with a ring in the center.

The women tended to be more serious and dignified, while the men were more prideful and stoic. Their chakra levels weren't exceptional like the Namikaze's. They also didn't anomaly's like the Haruno.

The Nohara were a kind hearted and pacifist clan. Of all the clans gathered, they were the most pacifistic.

They were most known for their healing, genjutsu, and vast knowledge of herbs and other medicines. Their clear thinking and determination was another thing that was most reputed of them. They had an aptitude towards taijutsu, and focused on group fighting. Their chakra levels were most likely the least to all gathered, but it didn't make them any less.

They all had fair skin for the most part, with chestnut brown hair and bright brown eyes. The women were short-standing around five foot, and were relatively petite. Even compared to the women of the other clans gathered.

Madara knew all of them well-the Uchiha never attacked any of these clans if he could remember right. They were far too small to be on the Uchiha's notice. His father's focus had been the Sarutobi, Senju, Hyuga, and several other clans. These clans never came up.

His eyes went from one women to the next-all leaders of their respective clans, all women-there was just one clan led by a woman or matriarchal that wasn't present, and that was the Mitirashi. It was understandable since they were a rather sadistic and just odd clan.

Eyes aglow with crimson light, Madara committed their faces to memory.

The leader of the Kurama clan was a tall and shapely woman with sharp brown eyes that shined with intelligence and a constant wariness. Her lips were thinned consciously, almost pursed. It looked as if she were trying to squint with an expression rather than just her eyes-focusing.

The leader of the Namikaze was a woman of average height, with a graceful, but curvy body. Her clear blue eyes shined brightly, as if they were filled with mirth, and a subtle smile was dancing on her face. Her hair was kept up in a tight bun, but even still, one long spike had to drape its way down to her tailbone, refusing to be totally tamed.

The leader of the Haruno was the second tallest-next to the Kurama clan leader, standing at five foot and seven inches. She had a toned, yet shapely body, with her hips and legs being more accentuated. Her pink hair was styled long and trailed just beyond her middle back-two long bang covered both sides of her face, giving her a rather sensual appearance.

The leader of the Yuhi was quite the beauty. With crimson eyes veiled with intelligence, they held a constant, almost seductive gleam to them. Certainly, this slim woman made many a men turn their heads, just to rip them off.

The leader of the Nohara was the shortest and most petite. Standing at just five feet. Her chestnut brown eyes and bright smile were the first thing to be noticed about her, followed by her petite, yet athletic body, and two markings of her face that were in fact, her clan's symbol.

"You all arrived earlier than I thought..." Daishiro commented, breaking the silence before anyone else.

Nobody spoke for several long minutes before he did so.

The leader of the Kurama-Akari turned her focus onto Daishiro, a sharp gaze coming over her expression as her neck went taut. "You made things extremely clear in that message you sent, Daishiro. Well, actually it'd be you; Katsumi."

Her tone was biting.

"Facts are facts." Katsumi said bluntly.

Akari clenched her teeth.

"No need to get so worked up, Akari-san." Saki Namikaze said, trying to pacify the brash and stern woman. "In situations like these, cold hard facts serve best. Had deceit been used, we would have never even considered. We would have likely decided to attack out of self preservation."

"I concur, especially on the latter statement." Yumi Haruno chimed, giving a small nod.

"I still have my suspicions about this. Am I to expect that this is all for the sake of children? We are shinobi. For centuries we've been sending our young into battle, until recently." Akari remarked, eyes set in a tight glare as she looked at everyone gathered.

"Though, we haven't sent our young into battle." Yumi was quick to say.

"We haven't, however, I have my own suspicions as well." Chie seconded, gently folding her arms over her chest. Her gaze didn't lessen any from before. If anything, it got more harsh.

"The Domou aren't known for their social skills."

"We're not, but exceptions can be made." Souji replied, not backing down from Akari's gaze.

Akari grunted.

"If I may?" Mimori Nohara interjected gently, looking between everyone for a moment.

"You have the floor, Mimori-san." Mikito said, giving a steady nod.

Mimori smiled softly. "It is likely the messages were sent to us as legitimate warnings. I doubt it was meant to frazzle us into coming here. We all know the danger posed to us, and since our clans are smaller clans, certainly we'll be targeted first. Daishiro only took such an action because the Shimura are threatened. If Daishiro is so wary, than we need to be a thousand times more wary."

"What are you suggesting?" Chie asked, tight lipped.

"Despite our low numbers, our clans are proud. We are proud of our independence and wish to maintain it-therefore we won't bow to anyone. We all lead our clans, being women, and many will find this as a sign of weakness. On our own there's no way we'd be able to stand up against Kumogakure. If Daishiro is taking such drastic action, certainly we have to consider it ourselves."

"Bah! That again! I'm tired of hearing about Kumogakure-that little band of shitty huts being called a shinobi village." Akari snapped at Saki.

"That is why there are tides of change. That is why all of this happening, and it is why you are here." Kosuke said darkly, eyes focusing on Akari with intent.

"Exactly. It is unwise to not see the threat of that shinobi village." Yumi said sternly, green eyes hardening.

"Oh?"

"I've heard many rumblings about Kumogakure, it makes me fear what is to happen if another village like it pops up. Imagine the Fire damiyo backing up someone like Hashirama or Sasuke, or those two joining hands and forming a village...Imagine two or four villages going to war, and we happen to be stuck in the middle. There's already a battle over resources and land, something taken away from us by the villages."

Akari sighed. "You sound like a ranting coward, Yumi. The Fire damiyo will never go along with it."

"They are all valid points. We can't, and you, Akari, just can't dismiss them." Saki said softly, brows furrowing in displeasure with Akari's pride.

Yumi's eyes narrowed, her hand clenching into a fist. "You're delusional, Akari. Your clan will not singlehandedly bring a village to ruin. It's enough for one clan, even the Uchiha, to bring down an entire clan. A clan doesn't have half of the resources a village does, or the manpower."

"Things are already in motion, Akari. Yumi's statement is too far off, either. Kumogakure has the Lightning damiyo, all of his resources and men, backing it up. You are truly delusional if you believe you'd even leave a dent in that infrastructure. If Hajime and Tunoichi can join hands-Hashirama and Saskue can. If the Lightning damiyo can cede off land, other damiyos will too."

"Very well put." Saki said with an appreciative smile, looking to Souji.

"It just isn't Kumogakure and the possibility of more shinobi villges threatening your clans, but it is also the Water country, its damiyo, and those clans that are threatening all of you as well. None of us are exempt from this. When they come onto the mainland-it'll take them just a few hours to spread out-the Water damiyo is leading his navy here. That's not factoring in the Water country clans and their own navies. The Fire damiyo and Earth damiyo will take action, the forces of the Lightning country will head south into the Fire country, and east, towards the Water country." Izuna added solemnly.

Saki, along with the rest of the leaders flicked their eyes onto Izuna.

They all heard many things about this young man-his prowess on the battlefield, his cunning and he worked behind the scenes. His handsome features, but more than anything...They all knew it was Izuna that had advocated and supported an alliance between the Domou and Uchiha, it was also well known that Izuna had intended to make changes to the Uchiha.

If rumors were to be believed, anyways.

"I heard you were trying to make changes within the Uchiha clan, and you came very close to succeeding." Chie commented.

Izuna crossed his arms. "It doesn't matter-the Uchiha are well enough off at this point."

"So, that growing rumor of the Uchiha breaking apart..."

"It's true." Izuna said bluntly, not denying it at all. "This isn't about the Uchiha, though. This is about your clans. Your clans' longevity."

"I beg to differ. How am I supposed to know those Uchiha won't hunt us down out of spite?" Chie questioned.

Madara found himself observing three women. Saki, Mimori, and Yumi were all but silent-the worry and hardness of their gazes spoke more than words ever could. Even though Saki tried to keep a more chipper image, and her bright blonde hair definitely did the trick, it wasn't enough to fool him. The trio had no objections, at the moment, but Akari and Chie were going to be go down this route.

Asking trivial questions that would lead to nowhere. There was no way they could there wouldn't be an attack on them, and it wouldn't just be from those Uchiha. It'd be from a village.

The anger in Chie's tone was enough-she was frightened.

It wasn't wrong to be frightened-he spent a night or two awake, drinking sake, pondering over what could happen.

"What are you really getting at?" Saki questioned.

"The Uchiha and Domou raided Maison-ya in the Grass village. Tomoyuki and all the renegades with him fell. They raided a teahouse in the Sand country. Ever since those events..."

"The Shainingu hate the Domou and Uchiha." Saki stated.

"Besides, there is no way they can guarantee you that, Chie. It just wouldn't be those Uchiha attacking you either, Chie, but an entire shinobi village. There's the Hageshii, Shainingu, and Yotsuki clan backing them up. There's the damiyo's military forces. The Nohara have survived this long due in part to our expertise in healing-we offer our services in return for money, clans leaving us alone, as well as protection. It's worked for centuries, but with this recent turn of events...It unsettles my heart."

"The Nohara will be highly valued for their medical prowess. It'd lead to clans and villages hunting down your kin. Others would try to eliminate the Nohara to tip the scales in their favor. The Namikaze and Haruno being so dangerous, your clans will certainly be the first next to the Nohara...The Kurama and Yuhi would be targeted last." Mikito noted, eyes darkening.

"Yes, and that is why I have no objections." Mimori said softly.

Yumi inclined her head in agreement.

Saki gave a simple nod.

"Akari? Chie?" Mikito's tone was just a bit lower than before.

"If you two have second thoughts, leave now. Defection and desertion are forbidden..." Madara's tone was soft, but held a low undertone threat.

Akari barely nodded. "I'm not going to let anyone-yet alone shinobi being tugged by leashes bring harm to my kin. To hell with the damiyos."

"I have no choice." Chie muttered.

Madara narrowed his eyes. "None of you have any objections or questions to the code and ethics? You realize the severity? The austere?"

Yumi looked a little uncomfortable before speaking. "No clan is more austere and ascetic than the Domou, other than the Subatsu...Your code and ethics are ruthless, and no exceptions are made. I've heard frightening stories about how the Domou handle things. I will hold that line, though. There is no favoritism or nepotism."

Madara set his eyes on Saki and Mimori, waiting for an answer.

"I have no problem adhering to the code and ethics...The fact Domou never killed children or even raided wounded camps speaks enough. As long as I have a man here to keep me grounded." Saki said, eyes dancing.

Souji folded his arms over his chest. "Is that your condition?"

Saki thought it over before nodding. "I'd like a marriage, it wouldn't hurt."

Mimori smiled a gentle smile. "That is also my condition."

"We can discuss that in detail later." Daishiro conceded, looking at Mikito.

"Agreed. Everything minor can be squared away now ,and after you all hear the code. Saki, Akari, Mimori, Yumi, and Chie-you are all leaders." Mikito said affirmatively.

Madara watched as something strange...Mystical even happened, once again.

All of the women, including Akari, nodded. The thing that shocked him was the fact Akari nodded without any hesitance, and there was pleasure in her eyes. Certainly she was concerned about her place, and Mikito doing this showed more than enough compensation on her part.

"Very well." Akari conceded.

"I don't ask for much except for your loyalty. Don't betray me. That goes for all of you." Mikito's eyes narrowed.

Madara knew these women would be more inclined to speak and feel each other out, rather than get belligerent and let things fall out. Still, he couldn't help his surprise from showing as he seen everyone getting on the same page, somewhat. He also couldn't gawk in amazement, for he had to speed things along so they'd be able to focus on more important endeavors.

And, there was still the Terumi, but with this sporadic advance-on Daishiro's part...

It left an indent.

Namikaze.. Haruno. Yuhi. Nohara. Kurama.

Once they dealt with the Terumi, things should stabilize a little bit. Syrus and the Subatsu would handle things on their end with the Hagoromo most likely, and when the timing was right...Usagi would marry Shin, sealing an alliance. Sealing an alliance between clans that have been enemies since time could remember-just like the Uchiha and Senju.

Before that it'd be...Ending the slave trade. Killing all those who have a hand in it, even outside of the shinobi world, because they'd already cleared through those who had a hand in it on the shinobi lands. Capture every last ship, move towards the continent where this atrocity was taking place, and put an end to it forever with their blade.

And, he knew without a doubt his wife-the Domou would turn their focus to every atrocity and cruel act, and they'd snuff it out.

Crush it and those perpetuating it.

"With this move-the Fire country now has several indents. With the Shimura, Yuhi, Haruno, Namikaze, Kurama, and Nohara all being present here." Daishiro commented.

His lips were pulling upwards.

"How shrewd of you to take out part of the Fire damiyo's strength, Daishiro. Perhaps we can talk about the details of your sporadic advance later over some tea or sake. I'm most interested." Saki said, eye smiling.

Madara could only think of one thing at the moment. It was no longer just his sect of Uchiha and the Domou living here, but now...Five clans were joining them, six with the Terumi. The Terumi being from the Water country.

This is going to make waves once word gets out or the rumors start...Let them speculate and ponder about it themselves. Madara smirked for a second, lowering his head an inch.

"That's really simple, honestly." Daishiro's smile was actually visible, well, partly visible. "I merely left an indent."

"Indent?" Was the question to enter everyone's mind.

---

Hair fell over his eyes, and he drew it back with a movement of his hand.

His eyes pierced into the night, searching and seeking beyond the pelting snow. The terrain was extremely hazardous and required some effort to tread across. Unlike the Lightning country which was barren and flat save for the mountains, the Fire country was dominated with hills, and upon those hills were toppled trees and mountains of snow. The snow stretched on and on, continuing to fall with the relentlessness of a blizzard.

The Hyuga compound was just two hundred odd miles from their current location. Even from this distance, he could see the vast Hyuga compound. The mammoth towers that looked like mere toothpicks from this distance. But, that was it. His sensory perception allowed him to pick up on everything his other senses couldn't.

His eyes widened slightly as he felt Daiki's prickly, jabbing chakra move to the head of the other chakras...

"Looks like the Hyuga have their compound surrounded..." Usagi spoke Nagakura's words.

"Yeah, there's more than sixteen thousand, easy." Nagakura grunted.

Todou narrowed his eyes until they were glinting slits, a hot bubble tore free from his center rippling out into his veins. His hand instantly snapped to the hilt of his katana clenching it tightly, his callouses protesting from the amount of force. "Does he intend to use them as sacrifices?"

"I doubt it." Syrus's tone was low and filled caution.

"Daiki wants a showdown." Uhi said, a frightening growl reverberating from her throat.

"Let's give it to him then. Todou. Nao."

Todou wordlessly darted away getting into his position.

Haji nodded at Usagi, turned his eyes towards Ryoku and Tsugi, then swept his hand to the side.

Both nodded darting away silently.

He turned his eyes onto those remaining and, and swept his hand forward, locking eyes with Syrus for a moment before sprinting into his own position.

Syrus waited for everyone else to settle into position, once he sensed they were all in position and the Hyuga hadn't noticed he flicked his eyes forward.

All at once they charged forward-the dogs barked and the wolves howled, the shinobi and kunoichi bellowed their own war cries as well.

Todou darted across the terrain silently, his steps beyond aggressive, he pooled into his chakra, and focused it throughout his entire body.

His sword sang.

"There's somebody over there!" A Hyuga shouted.

"Get the bastard! I'll handle Syrus!" Daiki shouted shouted.

"Kill the damn commoners!" Several more barked before getting up themselves and running towards the flaring chakra.

Nao sprinted from her cover, lunging forward and took a deep breath. Her chakra erupted in a bright blaze of flames, as her lips parted. The streaking flames spun in on themselves like a whirlpool, tightly packing together to form a loose chain of fire. She immediately drew her sword, landing on the ground with her left foot first sliding to a stop and planted her right, before deflecting at least a hundred Hyuga.

Shizuku flew into action alongside of her-chained cleavers cutting through the air with nothing short of beast-like ferocity.

Four Hyuga lost their heads while another found himself being choked to death.

Their forces slammed into each other-drowning out everything in their roars and cries, in sheer noise and destruction.

"Doton!"

"Sution!"

BOOOOOOOM!

Fire collided with water and earth sending chunks of flaming earth crashing into the nearby area as the water hissed into a violent steam that made everyone jump back.

A few Hyuga weren't quick enough and were devoured by the ravenous flames or squashed by the flung debris. The ground shifted and rattled ominously as more and more debris slammed into the earth sending sparks and ashes flying hundreds of feet overhead. The shakes were accompanied by the screeching clang of steel impacting against steel.

Her blade free of blood and ready to be drenched once again gleamed as she turned her eyes onto the daring Hyuga. Slowly Asuna's eyes narrowed, a fierce and ghastly glare becoming prominent on her features.

"Die!" They roared.

Their movements were graceful in nature, but erratic in application. They were bellied with anger and hatred lacking a crisp and clean edge as well as precision. Clouded by the heat of emotions. None of them telegraphed in the least, but more than that never made their murderous intentions too bold, so she could spot the chinks in their armor.

Dodge. Dodge. Block. Parry.

Clang!

Clang!

Clang!

Their attacks became fueled with even more hatred, their intentions and emotions becoming more clear, it took Ayako only the barest amount of movement to dodge each stroke, jumping over hasty swipes for her legs, parrying passed palms meant to strike her heart. She surged her chakra, letting it burst out behind her until it flung her forward.

One swing down. Her blade connected with its target, the tip piercing through the man's skull gouging through his brain and gashing through the soft flesh of his chin. She grunted, pulling and twisting against the dead weight and yanked it clean out from his skull.

"Asuna!

"Usagi!"

Yamaguchi swiftly slid in front of them both batting aside a storm of shuriken.

"Todou! Left flank!" Itsume screamed, batting aside what projectiles she could, sprinting forward with Ryoku and Todou mowing down any Hyuga shinobi that came within their immediate area.

Todou took a more blunt approach cutting and slashing, not backing down from the Hyuga despite their orbs of chakra. where Osen, Yamaguchi, Asuko, and Kimie completed the motion cleaving and cutting through their bodies, the warm splatters colliding with them, but there wasn't any time to ponder it over as they were all soon hard pressed and darting off to the side fending off their own hordes of Hyuga.

"Osen!" Ryoku screamed.

"Nagakura back up Ryoku!" Asuna sprinted off to the side, suddenly veering off to the right.

"Take Okita and Kmie with you!"

"I got it!"

Nagakura grunted, advancing with such power some of the Hyuga were surprised by his audacity. He took a quick glance. A familiar gleam. One, Two. Three. Five. Seven. The deflections came one after the next, as relentless as the Hyuga pressing him from all sides. One Hyuga got too cocky however, and overreached, getting a fist across his chin for his mistake.

A loud crack sounded off.

"You damned wolf!"

"I'm your foe!"

Daiki snarled slamming himself down feet first in front of Syrus as they commenced their collision-his target, Nagakura, escaped his blade's tip. He glaried all around as the compound was literally swarmed from all sides. His kin were all fighting to the bitter end, viciously, almost working in total sync if it wasn't for their hatred of each other.

Everything was drowned out by screaming, clangs of steel, barking, howling, snarling, and just pure discord.

Daiki's eyes narrowed as he watched several of his kin meet their end by a wolf or dog snapping their jaws on their throat. "You depend on filthy animals to fight!"

"Hubris Hyuga, I'll crush your skull!" Ebisu, and several wolves roared before lunging after him.

He managed to evade the assault, hands and feet whirling, chakra exploding out from every single pore-so dense and powerful, it permeated into a shield.

Daiki still struggled against Syrus's massive blade, teeth grinding down as his wrists jarred.

With a quick twist of his waist, he adverted the attack-grunting when he seen the heavy and long blade slam into the ground.

"It goes without saying that I've been waiting for this moment. I've been waiting to put you wolves back in your place." Daiki smirked callously.

Syrus only narrowed his eyes. "You're really pushing me, Daiki..."I don't care about superiority like you-the only thing I care about is the fact you attacked children from my own."

"I'd expect nothing less from you! You wolf! You are but a commoner. You have the blood of a commoner, but I-the Hyuga are royalty. We are shinobi royalty! We are descended from Hamura, brother of Hagoromo!"

Syrus raised his blade taking a two hand grip, his eyes glinting mercilessly as he absorbed the Hyuga's words. "Is that right?"

"Compared the Hyuga the Subatsu, Domou, and all clans and people are insects. We are gods! The children of your clan and those albinos you allied yourselves with are lower than insects."

"You son of a bitch!" Kimie screamed from somewhere close.

"Just wait until I shove my sword down your throat!" Todou all but snarled like a wild animal. "Yamaguchi! Asuko! Seiichi!"

Syrus had a sliver of reservation about cutting down Daiki-because he'd be doing it brutally, and with a callous he rarely showed. He didn't have that concern anymore, Daiki would fall. He'd fall just not by his blade, but Kimie's, Todou's, and everyone else's.

"Those albinos you speak of so disparagingly are my allies-the Mō clan."

"More commoners won't make a difference against royalty."

Remember, Hyuga. Pride came before the fall. I'm going to crush you...We're going to crush you, together."

Daiki smirked, shifting his stance as he slowly unsheathed his sword. "The Subatsu were never a match for the Hyuga, our Byakugan sees all! We are superior, we are royalty, compared to you plebeians! It is no different with those Mō."

"Getting long winded again there, Hyuga. Or are you so uncomfortable with the idea of dying that you won't attack me? A commoner? A mere wolf?"

Daiki's eyes exploded with veins and chakra.

Their collision ripped the ground asunder and sent snow billowing up tens of thousands of feet.

The battle truly began.