Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfiction, I own none of it.

Summary: A more rational Danzo takes on team 7. The world changes accordingly

Chapter 22 - Dark Tidings

Note: I'm back. And leaving canon far behind.

In a dark cave, a large statue was illuminated only by the flickering images of shinobi perched atop the behemoth's fingers.

"She dealt with the Invasion of the Sky Shinobi by herself from what I witnessed of the attempted Invasion." The two-faced being spoke from within his foliage. "She utilised Kyuubi effectively and in control, the number of tails is unknown."

There was some shuffling of those in attendance. "Whatever, another heaven to sacrifice." The silver haired Hidan huffed.

"Ku-ku-ku, we were always prepared to face jinchuriki, I'd worry more about this alliance she's forming no?" Orochimaru's tone was almost mocking.

Purple ringed eyes narrowed. "It is of no concern, the plans of a God are not so easily waylaid." The chakra that made up his figure wavered with his displeasure regardless. "We will make some modifications. A shinobi alliance that contains three of our targets can not be left to stand. Pit the nations against each other and we'll deal with the alliance when they're weakened. Konan will update your assignments." He abruptly flickered away.

The remaining figures shared a look as Konan rearranged their orders and assignments.

Back in Konoha all was well. Naruto, a Legion unto herself, was on cloud nine. Just a week ago her alliance was ratified, her brother in all but blood was engaged, and her and Shikamaru were officially a couple!

Not that much had happened yet on that front or anything. Well, if you asked Naruto at least. Shikamaru on the other hand was feeling a little overwhelmed as he walked down the street only to once more feel Naruto's chakra tickle his wrist as one of her chakra chains subtly tugged him into a nook between buildings he'd been passing.

Quicker than he could blink he had Naruto's hands around his neck and his breath taken away by an enthusiastic kiss courtesy of the bubbly blond. Kage or not, she was a teenage girl.

When they finally broke for air Shikamaru had to keep himself from sighing. "Naruto. I understand it's new and exciting but I still have to live and work in the village. I can't do that when my Kage's pulling me into the shadows every block for a smooch."

Naruto blushed. "Well. That's not… exaaactly fair. I mean that's the first time I've done it today." She pouted playfully, causing Shikamaru to roll his eyes.

"Naruto, I can't give every clone of you a kiss every day. You are Legion and I am but one man." He gave her a squeeze. "It's not that I won't try but how about we keep it to when we're actually spending time together? Instead of hiding us both away any time a clone crosses my path?"

Naruto rolled her eyes with an impish little smirk on her face. "Fine whatever-" She gave him a poke in the ribs. "Ino-chan already warned me you'd never be able to keep up." She finished with a giggle.

Shikamaru groaned. "That is definitely not what she meant by that, but it's cute that you think so." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. "But I've gotta get back to work, Iruka still needs me to submit my final 'Advanced Shinobi Tactics' curriculum before term starts." Naruto narrowed her eyes on him. "Yes I know the term starts tomorrow, I've been busy."

She laughed at that. "Fine, fine, all my fault. Best not delay the next term any further. Hiruzen's grandson was livid. I pushed back the graduation age and I'd really love it if he stopped trying to 'assassinate' me." She rolled her eyes. "Oh well, it's all good fun. Bye for now Shika!"

A poof of smoke later and an orange cat bounded away from Shikamaru as he shook his head. Ino brought up a good point though he thought to himself, a week into being a couple and he was starting to wonder how he was going to keep up with his shinobi duties.

On which note he hurried off to the new academy grounds. With the revamping of the academy almost complete and a new term starting, it'd been decided to construct a new academy, a slightly larger affair with more classrooms and some room for student housing for foreign students. It was fully equipped with a cafeteria, and had also relocated the shinobi libraries to exist in the new structure.

Only when he arrived at Iruka's office he found he wasn't the first one there. Konohamaru, big brown eyes and spiky brown hair held up by a pair of goggles.

"Sensei! It's no fair! I've already passed my graduation exam. You can't make me do two more years." Konohamaru was pounding his fists on the desk to punctuate his point.

Iruka just sighed, pinching the bridge of his scarred nose. "We've been over this Konohamaru, you passed what is now the year four test. It's not a bad thing though! It just means you have two years to develop as a ninja before going into the field. Now I won't hear anymore of it."

Konohamaru swept everything off Iruka's desk in response to that. "You're just in that stupid new Hokage's pocket! She took grandpa's hat, she took his clan name! And now she takes away being a genin from me? I see how it is. When I'm Hokage I'm not gonna treat people like this!" He stormed out as Iruka began gathering his papers off the floor.

Only suddenly Shikamaru was there helping him. "Oh, sorry Shikamaru, I didn't notice you on your way in. I was a little distracted I guess." He let out a strained laugh.

"Yeah well, at least now I can lie and say my lesson plan was already in this mess and you'd just misplaced it."

Iruka chuckled at that. "Sure sure, just like how you always only knew half the answers on every test right?"

Shikamaru smirked. "That was troublesome."

"Hard to believe you could go from dreaming of being a desk job Chunin to a Jonin candidate dating the Hokage huh?" Iruka dug good naturedly.

"Heh, yeah. Part of that same plan was a plain wife so I've really screwed that up." They laughed together at the path life had taken as a new shadow cast across the room from the doorway.

"Yeah yeah, we all love the blond brat. From what I hear that's why we're so late finalising these plans." Anko teased as a dango stick hit the ceiling, the start of a Konoha Crest forming in the ceiling already.

Shockingly it was Iruka that turned red at that, not being used to thinking about Naruto that way as Shikamaru groaned. Only before he could turn the ribbing around on her a snake slithered up Anko's body, regurgitating a scroll into her hand.

Her eyes narrowed suspiciously as she quickly cracked open the scroll, reading its contents quickly. "Shit, does anyone have one of Naruto's kunai?"

The room tensed as Shikamaru hesitantly withdrew his emergency Naruto Kunai. "This had better be an emergency Anko." She nodded as he flicked the kunai into the floor where it quickly transformed back into Naruto in a puff of smoke.

"Shika, weren't you just asking for space?" Naruto immediately teased after scanning the room and not seeing any threats.

Shikamaru shrugged and gestured to Anko, who was to everyone's surprise down on a knee. "Hokage-sama, I have urgent S-rank intelligence."

The room went quiet and Naruto's eyes narrowed at the implication. "Sorry Iruka, can we borrow your office for a moment?" She asked even as she flicked Sasuke's beautifully drawn privacy fuinjutsu to the four corners of the room. There was no fun in her voice now, but the authority of a leader.

Iruka closed the door behind them as the seals flaired to life, he understood the severity of the situation. Shikimaru's eyes flicked between the two remaining women, he'd long known they had some secrets and suspected he was about to learn one.

"Jonin Mitarashi, report." The steel in Naruto's voice echoed Danzo's training from all those years ago.

"Hai Hokage-sama, I've received a report that Akatsuki are making their move. They're going to take a Jinchuriki for Iwa, Kumo, and Kiri to try and ally them against us. They could already be captured and on their way to the extraction point for all I know."

"God dammit!" Naruto hit the table. "They were supposed to come for Gaara first! He and I have been training for years for it!" Already throughout the village clones of Naruto and Anbu directing people to her office as Naruto used her clone network to mobilise the village.

Anko and Shikamaru both narrowed their eyes, each of them gleaning new information from the exclamation even as Naruto gestured for them to follow her back to the Hokage tower.

Sasuke was leaning on the door to the tower when they got there, even without the sharingan, picking out Naruto's distress was as simple as breathing for him as he silently fell in step with the group.

Naruto gave Ayame a wave as a chain shot out of one of her braids linking to the doorway, chakra pulsing though it as she opened the door to the hidden tower.

Sakura, Kakashi and Jiraiya were all already there, having been in the underground compound already when the call went out. It took less than five minutes of awkward and tense shuffling around as more and more people piled into the room.

Soon enough all of team 7, 8, 9, and 10 were in attendance.

"Alright listen up everyone, we're on a time crunch. I've got information from inside an organisation called Akatsuki. Most of you have heard about them. Quick refresher? They're all S-rank, and they hunt Bijuu. Right now this matters because they're taking a jinchuriki from Kiri, Iwa, and Kumo right now."

She paused for a second to let that sink in. "That's right, we just formed the biggest alliance in shinobi history and a week later everyone else's jinchuriki go missing. Looks bad for us. So I've got the extraction points from an inside source and I want these Jinchuriki returned to their homes alive. So here's how it's going to shake down. Akatsuki travel in pairs but we don't know how they're arranged so we're gonna mostly leave you in teams your comfortable with already."

She gestured to Sakura. "Sakura you're taking Team 8 and Kurenai to Wave. Anko, your with Team 9 and Gai going to Waterfall. Sasuke, that leaves you with team 10 and Asuma to Hot Water."

Sasuke, Sakura, Hinata, Ino, Neji, and Shikamaru were all Jonin already. So it was a formidable force, but when the opponents were s-rank…

Three clones of Naruto came into existence, before three large pieces of Katsuya were summoned onto each of them, wearing the slug almost like a scarf. Somewhere else in the compound a Naruto working on wind manipulation's Katsuya clone suddenly engulfed that version of Naruto before slinking off to hide.

The clones shimmered blues briefly as chakra floods their system. "We still can only take one hit." They spoke in synchronicity. "But we'll be able to make the journey and keep us all in contact and everyone healthy. Now get out of here, it's at least 3 days to any of the extraction points."

A chorus of "Hai Hokage-sama!" And a flurry of body flickering met her declaration.

The Naruto within Katuya sighed and she quickly chomped on a specialised soldier pill, designed for the massive strain of staying awake for multiple days and keeping her clones supplied with chakra.

In Frost Country

Nii Yugito was frustrated as she tightened the bandages that held back her straight blond hair. She bit her lip, his sharp canines dribbling red blood over her red lipstick.

She'd been had. Her mission objective was a wild goose chase meant to tire her out and wear her down. Supposedly working her way up to take down a wannabe yakuza type organisation, she'd talked her way as far as she could, but eventually she had to fight her way up. And then it was just more and more inexplicably chakra trained gangsters piling on as she worked her way through their compound. When she eventually worked her way to the centre and thought herself victorious? She noticed it.

She noticed the corpses melting into white goo. And what was worse they were reforming. Quickly assessing the threat Yugito pulled on the Nibi, being nearly a perfect jinchuriki she simply swept the compound from the face of the earth in a roar of blue flime and a swipe of her ethereal chakra paw.

Only for the world to swirl as an orange mask came into view, topped with short spiky hair.. "Oh, oh Zetsu buddy this is no good! You're gonna lose like this Zetsu buddy." Only for the air to go cold as she met his single Sharingan eye. "Don't worry, Tobi will take care of this. Nice kitty…." he trailed off as the world twisted once more and all three of them were gone.

Near Iwakagaru

Han had lived an interesting life, jinchuriki to the five Tails; he and Roshi dominated the field during the third war.

But he was in his prime then, and jinchuriki weren't treated quite so badly during war. When the war was over, all anyone could seem to remember about him and Roshi was failing to eliminate Namikaze Minato. Some blamed losing the war on them entirely.

Well he was done with all that, done with Iwakagaru. At least, unless another war sprung up. For now he was content, his armor packed away. He busied himself trimming one of the many bonsai scattered around the Onsen he tended.

Nestled in one of the many crevices below the stones his village was named for, no one took time to question how a previously undiscovered natural hot spring had sprung up.

He was aware of the trespassers the moment they entered the wafting steam that passed all throughout his private sanctuary. He calmly continued tending his trees even as the door clicked open behind him.

"Steam of the Stone, Han. Jinchuriki of the eight tails, correct?" Kakuza, a large man next to anyone other than Han, spoke sounding almost bored. A black mask and a slashed Takikagaru covered most of his face, while his body was covered by black robes adorned with red clouds.

Han set down his pruners and stood to his full massive height. Over anyone else he would have towered but Kakuza was nearly his equal both in height and bulk.

"Ah, Kakuza was it? You're quite a notorious bounty hunter if you know who to listen to. Here to haul me off to Kumo are we? They do love their bijuu there." Han chuckled almost good naturedly.

At this point Hidan pushed himself forward. His slicked back silver hair and slashed Hoshi headband stood out. "Out of the way heathen, he's my mark. Kakuza bristled as he was elbowed past

"Whatever, I'd kill you if I could. Not like we can collect his bounty anyways." Kakuza conceded as he let the man pass.

"Jashin forgive me, I will make 100 sacrifices to atone for this one I withhold." He brought his triple bladed red scythe to bear. "You're coming with me heathen!" Hidan declared as he launched himself at the casual jinchuriki.

My apologies for the oversight. Let's make the necessary adjustments:

Han smirked as he ducked under the wicked scythe in an impossible show of flexibility for a man of his stature. Hidan's eyes widened in surprise, but before he could react, Han's massive hand closed around his throat.

"You're persistent, I'll give you that," Han grumbled, his grip tightening. Hidan struggled, trying to break free, but Han's strength was overwhelming.

Just as the situation seemed dire for Hidan, a blur of movement caught Han's attention. Kakuza, the other Akatsuki member, charged at him with a vicious punch. Han, still holding Hidan, shifted his weight and deftly dodged the attack.

Hidan seized the opportunity and slashed at Han with his scythe, leaving a deep gash across Han's side. The jinchuriki winced but didn't release his grip on Hidan.

Kakuza, undeterred, continued his assault. The battle in the rocky terrain intensified, with each strike and counterstrike adding to the tension. Han, fueled by the power of the Five Tails, showcased incredible resilience, while Hidan's zeal for his twisted faith fueled his determination.

In the midst of the chaos, Han saw an opening. With a swift motion, he flung Hidan towards Kakuza. The two collided, momentarily disoriented. Han used this opportunity to channel the chakra of the Five Tails into a devastating shockwave.

The rocky landscape shook as the force rippled through the ground. Han stood his ground, his chakra cloak emanating power. Hidan and Kakuza, battered and bruised, struggled to rise.

"You two picked the wrong jinchuriki to mess with," Han growled, readying himself for the next round of the fight. However, it became evident that the relentless assault of the Akatsuki duo was taking its toll on Han.

Despite his formidable strength, Han found himself overwhelmed by the combined attacks of Hidan and Kakuza. Slowly but surely, they wore him down, exploiting openings in his defense.

As the battle reached its climax, Han realized that victory was slipping from his grasp. The Akatsuki members fought ruthlessly, determined to capture the jinchuriki. Eventually, Han succumbed to their relentless assault, collapsing to the rocky ground.

Defeated and weakened, Han knew that he had lost the fight. The Akatsuki members stood triumphant, their mission to capture the Five Tails jinchuriki accomplished.

Naruto anxiously paced in her office, concern etched across her face. "Ero-Sennin, this is driving me nuts! I can't keep you or Kakashi out of missions anymore. It feels wrong not having you both in the field while our teams are facing down Akatsuki for me."

Jiraiya reclined in his chair, chuckling at Naruto's visible distress. "Easy, Naruto. We're not going to rust away just because we're not on missions. Besides, it's not like its just for your personality, no one can afford for them to collect the bijuu."

Naruto sighed, still uneasy. "I get that, but it's not just that. There's so much happening, and I need every strong ninja available. We've got Akatsuki making moves, and Itachi says their leader has the Rinnegan. I can't have you and Kakashi sidelined against that."

Jiraiya scratched his head, wearing a thoughtful expression. "I understand your worries, kid. But you've got capable teams out there. Plus, I promise you this downtime won't go to waste. Kakashi and I have been training up ourselves, our ANBU and the next generation the whole time we've been in the village."

Naruto glanced out the window, her mind clearly racing. "It's just hard. The world's changing fast, and I want us to be ready for whatever's coming. We can't afford to hold back."

Jiraiya grinned and leaned forward. "Naruto, change is inevitable, but so is our ability to adapt. We've faced tough times before, and we'll face them again. As for missions, I'll have a word with the Daimyo. Maybe a little persuasive talk about the importance of experience in the field."

Naruto's eyes brightened, a spark of hope evident. "You'd do that?"

Jiraiya winked. "Of course, kid. I've got connections. And while I work my charm on the Daimyo, you focus on keeping this village in top shape. We'll be back in action before you know it."

Naruto cracked a smile, appreciating Jiraiya's attempt to lighten the mood. "Alright, Ero-Sennin, you better keep your promise. We've got a lot to deal with, and I need my best shinobi on the front lines."

As Jiraiya's left her office, his expression turned more serious. In his mind, he contemplated the information from Itachi.

"It's been years since Itachi told us about Akatsuki's leader. But Narutl's strong enough to look after the village now. Looks like I'll have to make a trip to Rain and see what's really going on with Akatsuki's leader."

Konohamaru stormed into Hiruzen's study, his eyes ablaze with indignation. "Grandpa! This is unacceptable! They're holding me back at the academy for two more years! The Sarutobi clan deserves better!"

Hiruzen looked up from his calligraphy, his expression calm but firm. "Konohamaru, sit down. We need to talk about this."

The young Sarutobi scoffed but reluctantly took a seat, arms crossed defiantly. "It's not fair, Grandpa! We're supposed to graduate at twelve and I'm stuck doing basic academy stuff for another two years! I've been tutored my whole life to be a Shinobi I'm ready for more!"

Hiruzen leaned forward, fixing Konohamaru with a serious gaze. "Keeping you in the academy is not a punishment, Konohamaru. It's about ensuring your safety and giving you the proper foundation to become a skilled and responsible shinobi. You're not being held back; you're being given an opportunity to learn more."

Konohamaru scowled. "Opportunity? More like babysitting! I want to be out there, proving that the Sarutobi clan is powerful!"

Hiruzen sighed. "Konohamaru, power is not just about rushing into battle. It's about wisdom, strategy, and understanding the responsibilities that come with being a shinobi. I will be teaching advanced ninjutsu courses soon, and you'll have the chance to excel in those. Your time will come."

Konohamaru shook his head, frustration evident in his voice. "I don't want to wait! The Sarutobi name deserves respect now, not in some distant future. I won't be treated like a child!"

Hiruzen's tone became stern. "Konohamaru, listen. Keeping children out of dangerous situations is not a sign of weakness. It's a responsibility we carry as leaders and protectors of this village. Your time for greater challenges will come, but patience and discipline are crucial virtues for a shinobi."

Konohamaru stood abruptly, his anger evident. "I don't care about virtues! I won't be treated like a kid. I'll prove myself without your help!"

As Konohamaru stormed out of the study, Hiruzen watched with a mixture of concern and understanding. Balancing the eager ambitions of youth with the need for caution was a challenge he knew well.

Sasuke and Team Ten advanced through Frost Country, the chill biting at their exposed skin. Unbeknownst to them, the mission was already tainted by tragedy. As they pressed forward, their journey took an unexpected turn.

Kisame Hoshigaki emerged from the shadows, an imposing figure with Samehada strapped to his back. The blue-skinned swordsman grinned menacingly as his sharp eyes locked onto Sasuke.

"Well well well, if it isn't little Sasuke Uchiha. You know your big brother used to be my partner before he went soft ya know."

Samehada, the sentient sword, pulsed with anticipation, sensing the chakra-rich environment. It became clear that this battle would be a test of kenjutsu prowess against the Uchiha's ninjutsu focus.

Sasuke, determined as ever, unsheathed his sword, ready for the challenge. "Don't think knowing my brother gives you an advantage." Sasuke montoned as Team 10 moved into position, ready to run interference when Sasuke clashed blades with Kisame.

"Wouldn't dream of it, kid!" Kisame bellowed as he launched towards Sasuke.

Shikamaru coordinated his Team to back up Sasuke as the two Kenjutsu masters clashed. Sasuke's overwhelming speed pressing against Kisame's absolute mastery with his massive blade. Samheda purred as it lapped up Sasuke's potent lighting chakra off his double bladed staff.

Seeing his chance as Sasuke clashed with Kisame in a brilliant flash of lightning from above, the shadows lengthened as Shikamarus's jutsu took hold.

In the moment Kisame was frozen before he broke free, and as Sasuke flipped away Choji's massive fist grabbed Kisame and held him down for Ino's jutsu to take hold from where she flew in her chakra armor above the battle.

Initially feeling her mind transfer jutsu take hold she was shocked when after only a moment in Kisame's head she was forced out by… Samehada?

Kisame smirked even as he used his own massive strength to burst out of Choji's grasp and lunge towards Shikamaru.

Only to find Shikamaru replaced by the group's enhanced Naruto clone which blasted Kisame almost point plank with a powerful wind jutsu.

Thanks to his Sharingan Sasuke was able to predict this and appeared next to Naruto, blowing concentrated fire chakra into her wind jutsu.

The inferno they created lasted only an instant as with a swipe of Samheda the jutsu was undone.

Ino shouted down a warning as she read Kisame's thoughts from above. The team on the ground scattered as Kisame finished his one handed seals and unleashed his raging water shockwave.

Shikamaru was worried. While on the surface they were doing well, in reality… Jutsu were all but useless, and Kisame was more than Sasuke's match in Kenjutsu.

"Choji, I hate to say this but you need to take a pill." Shikamaru winced as he told his friend to use a last resort jutsu.

Choji, knowing his friend would never ask if it wasn't needed. He took out his special case and quickly chomped down on his family's special pill.

Some of Choji's body fat began to melt away as he exploded forward in newfound power and speed. His fist fast expanding as he simply haymakered Kisame a few hundred yards away. As he pursued the flying sharkman Sasuke appeared behind Kisame, slamming his lightning enhanced blade into Kisame with a roar of thunder.

Kisame was hurtled back bodily into a close line compliments of Choji caving in his chest cavity.

Only for his form to melt away to reveal an unknown missing hidden mist shinobi.

Shikamaru frowned at the implication as Sasuke spoke up. "It was no genjutsu, but i've never seen a clone jutsu like this before…"

When they regrouped the groups Naruto clone's Katsuya glowed brightly as chains connected themselves to the team, rejuvenating them.

"Sorry Choji, there's nothing I can do about your sped up metabolism. Just try and keep your calories up until the next fight and try not to take anymore pills. I might not be able to get you all the way back to the village for the Nara medicine you need if you take more." Naruto gave the good natured boy a squeeze on the shoulder.

"Thanks Naruto!" Choji beamed,"We should bring you in more missions." They all chuckled before setting back off.

The balmy breeze of Wave country wafted through the air as Sakura and her team, composed of Shino, Hinata, and Kiba, bounded along the coast. Unbeknownst to them, Orochimaru, the elusive Sannin, had set his sights on intercepting their mission.

As the team moved cautiously, Sakura sensed a disturbance in the chakra around them. Before she could alert her teammates, Orochimaru slithered into view, a sinister grin playing on his lips.

"Well, well, Haruno Sakura. You've grown since we last met," Orochimaru hissed, his presence sending shivers down Sakura's spine.

Hinata activated her Byakugan, Shino prepared his insects, and Kiba readied himself for a confrontation. The team assumed defensive positions, ready for whatever Orochimaru had in store.

"Orochimaru, what's your game this time?" Sakura questioned, her gaze focused and determined.

Orochimaru chuckled, a serpent-like glint in his eyes. "Just a bit of fun, my dear. Let's see if you can handle my improvements."

With a flick of his wrist, Orochimaru unleashed a barrage of snakes, each headed for a different member of Team 8. Shino's insects formed a protective barrier, Hinata gracefully deflected the serpents with precise strikes, and Kiba relied on his heightened senses to evade the oncoming threat.

Sakura, however, had her sights set on Orochimaru. She surged forward, kubikiribocho in hand, aiming to swiftly end this encounter. Orochimaru danced around her with unnerving grace, his body contorting in unnatural ways.

As Sakura pressed the attack, Orochimaru's mocking laughter filled the frosty air. "You're as predictable as ever, Sakura. Have you truly outgrown the little girl who could only jump in front of Sasuke?"

The mention of her prior weakness fueled Sakura's determination. She opened her curse seal further. Yet, Orochimaru's elusive movements persisted, and Sakura found herself frustrated by his slippery defence.

Just when it seemed Orochimaru had the upper hand, a surge of chakra disrupted the skirmish. Orochimaru's form dispersed in a puff of smoke, revealing that he had been a mere clone.

"Sakura, be on guard. This was a decoy," Shino warned, his analytical mind quickly assessing the situa

As the frosty mist settled, the team regrouped, realising that Orochimaru's true intentions remained shrouded in mystery. The icy landscape held secrets, and Sakura couldn't shake the feeling that the encounter was a prelude to something more ominous.

Under the moonlit skies, Team 9, accompanied by the energetic Gai and a clone of Naruto, ventured into the misty country of the Takikagaru. Their mission to intercept a potential Akatsuki threat turned ominous when the infamous Kakuzu emerged from the shadows.

Neji's Byakugan, ever perceptive, honed in on the intricate network of hearts pulsating within Kakuzu's body. Analysing the situation, he determined that overcoming the formidable Jiongu required a level of force beyond their usual capabilities.

Gai, embodying the spirit of youth, made the bold decision to unleash the power of the Eight Gates, a single gate opened, his and Lee's weights left in the village as they clashed with Akatsuki. As he stepped into the fray, vibrant green chakra enveloped him, a precursor to the immense strength he was about to unleash. Alongside him, the determined Rock Lee, fueled by the same unwavering spirit, opened one of his own gates.

The battlefield became a spectacle of speed and power as Gai and Lee launched a relentless assault on Kakuzu. Neji's Byakugan guided their strikes, pinpointing the hearts that needed to be incapacitated. The air crackled with intensity as each blow resonated with the essence of youth.

However, the revelation came with a twist — Kakuzu's seemingly vital hearts were nothing more than a sophisticated decoy. The realisation dawned on the team that they had spent precious time battling a diversion, leaving the extraction point vulnerable.

When Team 8 arrived at the sealed cove in wave country, Sakura swiftly summoned toads to counteract the intricate seals, revealing the looming presence of the Gedo Mazo statue and spectral figures of the Akatsuki. The unexpected emergence of Utakata, gravely injured and cocooned in the Six Tails' chakra, heightened the tension within the confined space.

As Deidara attempted a hasty escape using a clay bird, Sakura's instincts kicked in. In a bold move, she plunged the entire cave into the Swamp of the Underworld, a jutsu passed on to her by her master Jiriaya. Simultaneously, she summoned a toad, its maw opening wide to engulf Utakata before vanishing into the summon realm.

The Swamp of the Underworld proved to be an effective trap, ensnaring Deidara and the team in a murky, chakra-infused quagmire. The air crackled with anticipation as the blonde artist's escape plans unraveled in the face of Sakura's strategic mastery.

Seizing the opportunity, Deidara, ever the explosive artist, conjured a diversion. His clay creations burst forth, creating chaos and drawing the attention of Team 8 and Sakura. Amidst the chaos, Sasori, the puppeteer, seized the distraction to make his elusive escape.

In the aftermath, an illusion of Sasori's apparent demise lingered, leaving the team momentarily stunned. Shino, known for his enigmatic nature, adjusted his glasses with a cryptic expression, offering no immediate explanation.

The anticipated explosion following Deidara's characteristic scream failed to materialize. The eerie silence that followed set the stage for the unfolding confrontation. Sakura, Shino, and the remaining members of Team Ten now faced a flustered Deidra all alone.

Deidara, grinning maliciously, conjured more explosive clay creatures, ready to unleash chaos upon the unsuspecting team. However, he underestimated the prowess of his opponents.

Hinata, her Byakugan activated, focused on the subtle shifts in Deidara's chakra as he prepared to detonate his explosive creations. Swift as the wind, she moved, her lighting-style senbon Gentle Fist disabling chakra stored within the explosive clay with pinpoint accuracy.

Simultaneously, Shino's insects swarmed, enveloping even more of the onslaught of clay creatures. Their chakra-draining capabilities neutralized the explosive potential, rendering them harmless. The once formidable arsenal of Deidara now lay inert, a testament to Team 8's strategic coordination.

Seizing the opportunity, Sakura and Kiba launched a dual assault. Sakura's eyes glowed faintly yellow as her skin darkened slightly by nature chakra from her nearly wide open curse seal, while Kiba and Akamaru darted with feral agility, aiming to overwhelm Deidara with a relentless melee onslaught.

Deidara, pushed back by the opposing forces, realized the tide had turned against him. In a desperate move, he consumed his entire stash of explosive clay, intending to unleash a cataclysmic blast that would consume the cave.

Sensing the impending danger, Hinata, Shino, Sakura, and Kiba exchanged a brief but decisive glance. Without hesitation, they sprinted towards the cave entrance, propelled by a collective urgency to escape the imminent explosion.

The cave erupted behind them in a fiery spectacle, a testament to Deidara's final, futile attempt to claim victory. As they emerged into the crisp night air, their mission accomplished at the cost of narrowly escaping a potentially devastating confrontation with the explosive artist, and unsure of Sasori's fate.

Near Takikagaru

After the fight Naruto spoke up. "Sakura and Team 8 retrieved Utakata successfully. We'll need to hurry up we interpreted the sealing, they won't wait for us now that we've attacked two of their bases."

Team 9 nodded in tandem as Naruto flooded Lee and Gai with restorative chakra. Racing against time, Team 9 and Gai sprinted towards the extraction point, the mist swirling around them as they sought any sign of Akatsuki's lingering presence. Yet, as they arrived, the area stood empty, devoid of any trace of their elusive foes.

Team 9 was crestfallen, Naruto even more so as they realised their mission had failed.

In Frost Country

"We've retrieved Utakata, but there was no sign of Akatsuki near Takikagaru. " Naruto spoke up as Team 10 approached the sealed cave.

As they reached the cave, Sasuke, disregarding caution, unleashed a powerful lightning jutsu to obliterate the barrier. His jutsu clashes with the barrier only for a moment as the young Uchiha's potent lightning chakra, amplified by his staff made up of both the Rajin no Ken and the Kiba blades was an unparalleled weapon. Yet, from the dissipating smoke emerged an ethereal chain, lashing out at the team.

Quick thinking by Sasuke saved them, his shadow clones pulling the team back just in time to avoid the unknown attack. When the smoke cleared, the chain user was gone, replaced by an unexpected presence.

Standing before Yugito's lifeless body was Fukaku Uchiha, Sasuke's own father. A momentary shock gripped Sasuke as his Sharingan detected no falsehood.

"This can not be! I saw your corpse, I burned your remains!" Sasuke shouted at the imposter.

But in his moment of shock, seizing the opportunity, Tobi appeared behind Choji. A ghostly hand plunging through the unsuspecting teen's chest. Shikamaru's shadow sewing jutsu attempted to rip the ethereal form out of Choji's body to no avail.

Ino sensing his thoughts screamed at Shikamaru,"Don't let him rematerialize inside anyone, the displacement will kill them!" Even as she spoke, she dove for Choji as fast as she could, pulling the teen out of danger for a moment.

During this time Sasuke had quickly dispatched the Fukaku imposter, he flashed forward and bisected him. Only to reveal the melting form of a white Zetsu.

Team 10 had engaged Tobi to the best of their abilities, but it was less than a stalemate. Tobi was fast and could switch from tangible to intangible at a moment's notice. And while Shikamaru theorised there must be a time limit to the jutsu in the few second Sasuke was out of the battle they were quickly pushed back.

Ino quickly mind linked with her Team and Sasuke, a specialised fuinjutsu in her chakra armor reducing the strain on her young mind. She's fed through the thoughts she was able to read from Tobi to keep them on pace with the deceptively powerful Shinobi.

"Sasuke, we need an overwhelming barrage to keep him from reforming, if he reforms with that chain through us we're toast." Shikamaru directed through the mindlink.

"Troublesome." Sasuke thought sarcastically as he took his stance and prepared his next jutsu. "Get back for this guys."

As Team 10 shot away from the shinobi he moved to follow only for Sasuke to flash out of existence as a circle of afterimages surrounded Tobi, double bladed staff slung casually over his shoulder. Concentrated lighting chakra polluted the atmosphere of the room as the images began flickering back and fourth, seemingly trading places with each other as they delivered their strikes.

At first Tobi just laughed. Then a minute went by and he wasn't laughing anymore.

"You can't possibly keep this up. Tobi is a good boy and you won't beat him like this." The masked figure's voice was that of confusion mixed with irritation.

After the third minute the man scowled behind his mask as Sasuke's images looked on casually, sharingan eyes spinning lazily as he continued the onslaught.

Sasuke knew he had him on the ropes when Tobi suddenly bolted towards the onlooking Team 10. His chains whipped forward to pass through Team 10, and through their mind link they were all able to hear his thoughts in that moment.

"I can take a hit, but I'll take them on my way out! The lead must suffer for ruining my plans!!!" Tobi thought to himself, and just as quickly Sasuke was moving to act.

Only it wansn't enough.

Sasuke was only fast enough to grab two of his teammates, and their Naruto clone had been hanging back and wasn't fast enough to intervene in the tragedy unfolding.

The chain materialised one more time, just as Sasuke grabbed Choji by the arm to pull him out of harm's way, just in time to feel Choji grasp onto his arm as both of their eyes widened in shock.

The swirling remnants of Tobi's laughter echoed in the cavernous void left by his departure. The somber atmosphere hung heavily over Team 10 and Naruto as they gathered around their fallen comrade. Shikamaru held Choji's hand, a silent anchor in the storm of grief.

Naruto, her eyes wide with disbelief and sorrow, unleashed her delicate chains, their glow casting a pale light on Choji's lifeless form. Katsuya, the wise and ancient slug, spoke in a hushed tone, urging Naruto to accept the inevitable.

"Naruto-chan… it's time to say goodbye. You'll only be able to hold onto him for a few moments like this," Katsuya sighed, the weight of the moment evident in her voice.

Ino, fueled by a mixture of anger and desperation, shot a fiery glare at the sage summon. "Do something! You're one of the great summons of the sage lands—help him!"

But Choji, even in his final moments, showed a remarkable calmness. He released his grip on Sasuke, reaching out to Ino while maintaining his hold on Shikamaru. His words, though tinged with the shadow of death, sought to comfort his grieving friends.

"Never mind that. We all knew how this could go. It was Akatsuki and all," Choji spoke with a serene demeanour, a bittersweet smile on his lips. A cough brought forth a torrent of blood, staining his lips and weakening his voice. "But you guys need to stay strong, for each other. For Asuma-sensei."

His eyes closed briefly, as if savoring a fleeting memory. The color drained from his face, and he fought to remain conscious. With eyes still shut, he conveyed his final sentiments. "Looks like I'm on my last chip now, guys," he chuckled, though each breath became more labored. "But I'm glad… I'm glad I got to share it with you guys."

Ino couldn't contain her emotions, her laughter choked with tears. The moment hung in the air, suspended between grief and acceptance, as Choji slipped away, leaving behind memories etched into the hearts of his shattered teammates. The cavern echoed with the quiet sobs of Ino and Shikamaru, while Naruto, in the throes of hysterics, struggled to comprehend the harsh reality of loss.

Sasuke, a stoic figure amidst the emotional tumult, observed silently, his Sharingan capturing the fragments of a bond severed too soon. The weight of the fallen comrade lingered in the air, a painful reminder of the unpredictable and merciless nature of their ninja world.

The mission ended in tragedy, with both Yugito's corpse and Choji's lifeless form in tow. The team returned home, burdened by the weight of failure and loss.

In her dimly lit office, Naruto wearily slumped into her chair, the weight of the recent missions etched across her fatigued features. She gestured for Kakashi and Jiraiya to take a seat, her voice carrying a heavy exhaustion as she began to debrief them on the outcomes.

"Alright, let's get through this. All our teams faced unexpected challenges, and the results aren't what we hoped for," Naruto began, her voice betraying the fatigue that clung to her. "Utakata is alive but in bad shape. We couldn't save Yugito, and Choji didn't make it back. As for Han, there's no sign of him."

Kakashi, his single eye focused and analytical, pointed out, "Considering the circumstances, we did manage to retrieve one target alive. It's not a complete failure, Naruto."

Naruto, however, couldn't find solace in the small victories. "One alive, one dead, and one missing. Plus one of our own. I can't see this as a success, Kakashi. Lives were lost, and we couldn't protect our own."

Jiraiya leaned forward, a sympathetic expression on his face. "Naruto, you did your best. Sometimes, the outcome is beyond our control. We can't save everyone."

Naruto sighed, running a hand through her unruly hair. "I know, Ero-Sennin, but it doesn't make it any easier. The weight of their deaths… I feel it on my shoulders."

Jiraiya, ever the optimist, attempted to lighten the mood. "Hey, you're doing an incredible job as Hokage. You're carrying the village through these tough times. We're here to support you."

Naruto managed a small smile, appreciating Jiraiya's attempt to uplift her spirits. "Thanks, Ero-Sennin. I need to rest. I've been awake for over three days, and my chakra feels like it's running on fumes."

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "Take care of yourself, Naruto. We'll handle things here."

As Naruto left her office, the weight of the losses lingered in her steps. The reality of being Hokage was harsh, and the sacrifices weighed heavily on her heart. Yet, with the support of those around her, she steeled herself to face another day, knowing that the ninja world demanded resilience even in the face of tragedy.

Author's Note: I reread my own fic, and have notes going most of the way through part two so I'm hoping to get updating more regularly again.