{Land of fire: Konohagakure: Hokage's office}
May 11th
"This report is astonishing, Kakashi. What you've done is secure us a permanent client. when will Tazuna be here to discuss the finer details?" Asked an excited Hiruzen.
"give him three or four days. He's suddenly got a lot on his plate, But I'm sure he will be ready to negotiate a contract in due time," Said Kakashi.
"Very well, then. This is a big deal. So much happened on their first mission. I must scold you for not retreating at the first sign that the mission was more than could be handled for fresh genin. This does prove that you have some very skilled students. I'm adjusting their pay to match the mission size. The initial size will be what Tazuna negotiated, but once I discuss the pay complications with him, they'll be given their share.
Kakashi nodded and took a bow." thank you, Hokage-sama. If I May, there's something else to report.
Hiruzen looked up and gestured for him to continue." please do."
Kakashi began to speak. "Naruto has unlocked the Uzumaki's esteemed chakra chains ability.
Hirruzen's eyes widened at this." Is that so? Tell me more.
Kakashi recounted what he knew, from their size to their efficiency. The boy's ability to change the function of the chains caught Hiruzen's attention, though.
"So one form is for attacking and the other for absorbing the chakra of others?"
"That's what he told me," responded Kakashi.
" interesting. Do you think he can use his mother's sealing chains?" asked Hiruzen.
Kakashi shrugged. "Him being capable of what he has now is already shocking in of itself, so anything is possible."
Hiruzen nodded. "It's truly amazing how he's developed so much in such a short period. But there's still so much to do. You're dismissed, Kakashi."
Kakashi bowed before him before walking off.
When the door closed behind Kakashi, Jiraiya made himself known, having been lounging just outside the window.
"I think it's time now," spoke Jiraiya.
Hiruzen tilted his head in the direction of the voice. "For what?"
"for Naruto to learn to control its power."
Hiruzen shook his head and sighed. 'I suppose it's now or never, ' He thought to himself before speaking out loud. I'll give team 7 a week off so you can do what needs to be done. However, don't start tampering with the seal within the village; take him far from here.
Jiraiya gave a smirk. "I already know where to take him. three birds, one stone.
Hiruzen shook his head. "It's two birds, Jiraiya... Jiraiya?
Hiruzen turned and felt for any presence outside his window before scoffing. 'I hate when he does that to me.
Line break.
{Land of Fire: Konohagakure: Sakura's residence}
Sakura threw her bag onto her bed and finally relaxed. It was a rough and stressful mission. Now she understands why her Father would always say being a ninja isn't for the weak. How could he come home with so much energy to spare for her mother and her?
She sighed and fell on her bed. 'I'm finally home. Thank god.
She stared at her ceiling as the minutes ticked by, thinking about everything that happened in Wave. They all grew in strength and managed to save an entire country. They affected the very lives of others and changed the world they knew for the better.
She then started thinking about her teammates, Sasuke in particular. He's been on edge ever since the mission, and it's likely thanks to Naruto. She knew better than to bug him when he's in one of his moods. She was looking forward to maybe having her teammates go out for lunch or something. They never did anything fun together as a group before, but that's unlikely to happen until she's tested the waters with Naruto.
She sighed as she rolled over. Maybe next week will be different. Naruto isn't avoiding her anymore, though his attitude is a bit odd. Maybe he's still pissed at how she treated him before being teamed up together?
She cringed and instantly moved on to a different train of thought. She needed to relax and go to sleep. The week off is just what she needed.
Line break.
{Land of Fire: Konohagakure: Uchiha compound}
Sasuke was going through the old storage sheds looking for his clan's old things—jutsu, books, weapons—anything he could use to increase his power.
He needs them at this point. Every time He progresses in getting stronger, Naruto seems to make a bigger leap in his abilities. He wasn't sure what Naruto did on that bridge to gain so much strength, but it pissed him off to no end. The Blonde's half-assed explanation won't satisfy him either.
He just needed to keep moving forward; he couldn't focus on the loser. Otherwise, he'll be forced to acknowledge his own weakness.
He found some of his family's old scrolls and went through the list of ninjutsu, most of which were a bit advanced for him.
'No. These will do just fine. I'll pick one out and present it to Kakashi to help me learn. I need more firepower.
As he put away the scrolls, memories of this place when it was home flooded his mind, and for his sake, he tried his best to block it out. It was in the past, and he had no intention of dwelling on it.
He made his way out of the shed, closed the door, and went to the forest to train. He wasn't looking to be disturbed. He didn't know why Kakashi had decided to give them the week off, but it wasn't what he needed. he needed strength.
Line break.
{Land of Fire: Konohagakure: Naruto's residence}
Naruto stared down at the large summoning contract with many names etched onto it and looked back up to Jiraiya.
"Pack up kiddo. We're going on a small training trip."
Naruto's brow twitched as he stared at his godfather's smirk. ' I just recovered to the point where I can move around and do stuff again. He can't be serious. I already trained! I need a break!'
Naruto took a breath. He wants this; he really does. he doesn't train with Jiraiya anywhere near as much as he wants to, but this timing? After getting off of a mission of that caliber?
He took a moment before finally giving Jiraya a nod.
"Where are we going?" He finally asked.
Jiraya gave his signature smirk before answering. "To The wonderful, Mysterious, extraordinary!-
"Jiraiya, please-"
"-Mount Myōboku! We're going to train with the toads for a bit."
Naruto's eyes lit up a bit, but then a shiver went up his spine. "I'm bringing my own food."
Jiraiya chuckled. 'Ma's not gonna like that one bit,' Jiraiya thought.
"What will I be learning while I'm there? Collaboration techniques with the toads?" asked Naruto. He'd wanted to do this for some time.
Jiraiya shook his head at first, but when he considered how much Naruto had matured over the past couple of years, he began to nod instead.
"Yup. that's one thing, but there's so much more."
"Like what?" Asked Naruto.
Jiraiya rubbed his chin. "I have two projects. One is imperative, and the other could be... homework." Ok then. Let's get a move on. The sooner we get done, the better," said Naruto.
Jiraiya smirked and planted his hand on the floor, summoning a toad.
In a puff of smoke, Gekomatsu, a small green frog, suddenly appeared, holding a sandwich. "And then when we finished, we... What the hell?! I've been summoned?!" the toad yelped in surprise.
"Ah. My apologies, Geko. I have a favor to ask you," said Jiraiya, and the toad jumped in surprise.
"Oh! Master Jiraiya, this is unexpected. I-I mean, uh, how can this small frog help you?" the toad asked as he straightened out and cleared his throat, standing as tall as he could.
"I need you to teleport us to and from Mt Myōboku. Can you do that?"
Naruto was smirking at the sight. He would never truly get used to how these toads operated. It was strange but fantastic.
The toad saluted. "Of course! Not a problem, boss! Leave it to me!"
Jiraiya nodded, and Naruto was left with a few questions. "Umm. so he's going to hang out at my spot while we're away?
Jiraiya nodded. "something like that."
the old man rolled out his scroll and pointed at it for Naruto to stand on.
The boy complied, and Gekomatsu performed the ritual. In a poof of smoke, they were gone and in the Land of Toads.
This left Geko in a weird spot. Except for his half-eaten sandwich, he didn't have food. And why didn't he ask how long they'd be gone?
'crap.'
Line break.
{Hidden Location: Mount Myōboku}
With a large plume of smoke, Jiraiya and Naruto disappeared from the village of Konoha and went into the mystical Land of Toads.
Naruto blinked at the giant frog statues, strange-looking trees, golden waterfalls, and mountains that stretched high into the sky.
Naruto smirked. "I'm never gonna get used to this view," said Naruto in an excited tone.
"Yup, It's something, isn't it? " Said Jiraiya, smiling at the memory of sharing this location with Naruto for the first time.
The boy was freaked out, excited, and scared at the same time, which was hilarious. It turns out that he had a fear of toads when he was young, thanks to the pranks other kids pulled on him when he was in the orphanage.
When the white-haired Sannin heard of this fear, he immediately squashed it out of existence, bringing him here and introducing him to GamabuntaOKOK. Well, showing a kid with a fear of toads a giant toad was a terrible idea, actually. But when Shima scolded and brought him in, the boy opened up.
"Ah. Jiraiya boy!"
speak of the devil.
Jiraiya turned to the voice of Fukasaku, otherwise known to him as Pa, and gave a deep bow. Naruto did a short version before helping the toad onto his shoulder.
"Ah! Naruto boy! Look how you've grown! And I see you have finally become a ninja," said the old toad with a smirk.
Naruto smiled. "yup. and I'm getting better too."
Jiraiya smirked. 'It's always nice to see Naruto getting along with the summons as well as his Father did. Their affinity for them is greater than my own, admittedly,' he thought before focusing.
"Ahem! We don't have as much time as I'd like, so we'll have to call the reunion a bit short."
Naruto just sighed, and Fukasaku waved the old man off. "Oh please. There's no way I'd be left unaware of what's going on here. You already know how Gerotora can be. He told me what you were up to, and I wanted in.
Naruto looked between the two and Jiraiya groaned at forgetting to tell the scroll frog to shut his trap about this training. 'damn him. He's always so difficult when it comes to these things. I should have known, given the pushback he gave me in doing this in the first place.'
"Who else knows?" asked Jiraiya.
"Knows about what?" asked Naruto.
"Knows about this training to control the nine tails power, of course." said Pa in a matter-of-fact tone."
Jiraiya face palmed, and Naruto's expression became one of agitation. "what?
"I was going to let him know after I taught him my signature move," said Jiraiya in an irritated tone.
Pa shrugged. "I don't like secrets, Jiraiya, especially when they could affect him negatively, so I might as well get it out of the way."
Naruto crossed his arms and gave Jiraiya a dirty look. "I agree with Pa. You should have told me from the jump instead of trying to corner me! You always do this when you think there will be pushback! It's manipulative!
Jiraiya put his hands up, "S-sorry! I am. I just-
"Let's just get this over with. I'm sorry for cursing in front of you, Pa." Naruto apologized.
The old toad shook his head. "I understand. Firstly, let's meet with Ma. She has some food waiting for-
"I already ate," said both Jiraiya and Naruto.
Pa just sighed. "I had a feeling you guys were going to say that."
Line break.
May 14th.
Three days later.
{Land of wind: Sunagakure: kazekage's Chambers}
5:13 PM
Baki entered the office and knelt before the curtain that shielded the Kazekage from his visitors. Behind him, Kabuto was surprisingly doing the same.
"I Take it that you are Lord Orochimaru's right-hand man?" Spoke the voice of the Kazekage.
"That is correct. I am the head of his intelligence and trusted right-hand man," said Kabuto, having prepared himself for this conversation.
The man hummed in response and noticed the respect being shown in his posture. "I assume you didn't come here empty-handed. The promises that Orochimaru has made have so far been kept. However, these gestures are small in comparison to what is being asked of us. Our relationship is still very new, and the solution given to us is very... risky.
Kabuto nodded. "indeed. This is something we've already taken into account. So that is why we have made a proposition. Lord Orochimaru posed an idea.
Rasa's eyes narrowed at this. "And what is that?
Kabuto smirked at the curtain. "It's quite simple, actually. The current Wind Daimyo is giving this village far too many problems, demanding more and more and not giving anything in return. There is an imbalance here, and your people feel it every day. He holds the money, the resources, and even a good portion of this Land's manpower, whereas you only hold military might and nothing more.
"These are all things I am perfectly aware of." The man hissed. "Get to the point already."
Kabuto nodded. "The solution is to take control over the Daimyo directly as a puppet."
Rasa was silent for a long moment.
One thing Kabuto hated about seeing this man was his inability to see this man. He can't judge what he's thinking behind that blasted curtain. He can only go off of the man's voice. It's an interesting tactic he wasn't prepared for.
"How do you suppose we do that?" Rasa asked slowly.
Kabuto was relieved at the question. "we arm the man's Rival. His brother, Lord Taira, is eager to usurp his sibling. especially now that he's been spurned from the capital's inner circle for his lack of Stewardship ability. being the older brother yet passed over has obviously taken a toll on him, and him being fired from his brother's council is surely the last nail in the coffin.
Rasa chuckled at first before breaking out into a laugh, no longer able to hold in his amusement. "You make a very compelling case, and I see now that there is truth to Orochimaru's genius. But we can't simply move on our Daimyo without just cause, or we'll be attacked by the other villages for disturbing the symbiotic balance our governments share.
Kabuto smirked. "I have just the thing in mind. You simply help us Invade your Rival, and we'll orchestrate for your Daimyo to be present for the invasion. He'll be collateral and nothing more."
Rasa thought about it. "I don't know. His being there will still make us look bad if he dies there.
Kabuto smirked. "Then he doesn't need to die there. Just have him 'Protected' on the way out. Have him assassinated on the road and make it look like Konoha's doing, and bam! You've got the justification to install his braindead brother.
Rasa nodded slowly. The plan is sound in theory, but execution is key.
"You don't even need to worry about coercing his brother into following our will. Orochimaru and I have that under control. Just take care of your part, and the rest will work out.
Rasa nodded. "Very well then."
The Kazekage stood up from his cushion and walked through the curtain, making both Baki and Kabuto stand up to show respect.
Kabuto saw the man in person for the first time, and he couldn't help but feel surprised. The man looked healthy and still on the younger side, with Aubern hair and a stern look that showed no fear of being around his new allies.
Kabuto smiled and handed the man a document containing the intimate details of their plan and a list of materials and individuals he would need.
Rasa opened the document, much to the dismay of both his overprotective Anbu and shinobi.
He scanned through it before nodding. "Very well. We have three weeks before the exams become a thing to worry about. I expect results by at least two."
Kabuto smirked. "Expect results in about four days. We jumped ahead a bit and managed to have most of our planning done in advance.
Rasa's eyes widened a bit before narrowing. "Oh? So, are you saying you anticipated me approving such a thing?
Kabuto shook his head. "Certainly not. We simply had our pieces in place for the scenario in question, that's all.
Rasa nodded and set the scroll down. "Very well. I assume we have nothing else to discuss, so you are dismissed."
Kabuto bowed and left the room.
Baki waited until the sliding door shut before speaking. "I don't trust this Orochimaru character. Permission to keep an eye on them, sir?
Rasa shook his head." Initially, I would, but I believe our scorch release user, Pakura, will do.
Baki nodded and left the office once dismissed.
This left Rasa alone in his office to ponder their plans. Orochimaru is a dangerous man, but his hate for Konoha and his Daimyo is stronger than his dislike for him.
Line break.
Four days later.
May 18th
{Land of Wind: Konohagakure: The academy grounds}
Konohamaru lay on his back, his expression one of slight shock and annoyance as a smug Hanabi held her knee to his chest and a palm inches from his face.
"Alrighty, Hanabi is declared the winner." Said the instructor.
Hanabi hopped off the boy, and the instructor helped him up. "Are you good?" the man asked, and Konohamaru shrugged him off.
"I'm fine! Don't worry about it.
The man nodded. "Alright, good. Now, show the traditional sign of respect and get back in line.
The boy huffed, and as they bowed, he heard her whisper something to him. "Told you I'd win, Monkey Boy."
Konohamaru flew into a rage and lunged at her, and she flipped him over her shoulder well before the proctor could even get to him.
"Hey! cut that out! Both of you!" barked the man.
Hanabi simply stood over the once again shocked boy and smirked. She flipped her hair and walked away, and the instructor groaned in annoyance. 'I'm never taking your class again, Iruka!' the man thought to himself before moving to scold the kids.
Line break.
Later, Konohamaru was sitting with his two friends at lunch, Moegi scolding him and Udon trying to cheer him up.
"I told you not to mess with her. I warned you!" said Moegi with her hands on her hips. "Why didn't you listen?!"
"You didn't hear what that freak said about me! She called me a monkey again! There's no way I'm gonna let that slide!
Udon sighed. "Konohamaru, she's from a super important and strong clan. And they are great at fighting up close. Just admit it; she can't be beaten in a fistfight. At least you can perform ninjutsu, and she can't."
Konohamaru shook his head and stuffed his face angrily.
Once he had finished his food, he sat with his arms crossed, but his face lit up soon after. "I know exactly how I'll get back at her."
Moegi looked at him with an alarmed expression. "N-no pranks! You'll get in trouble again!
Konohamaru shook his head. "Nah. I don't need pranks when I have something better.
Udon wiped his nose with his napkin and leaned forward. "What do you have in mind?
Konohamaru smirked with pride. "I have an older brother who will teach me more ninja stuff."
Both Moegi and Udon looked confused. "You mean Asuma?" Asked Udon.
Konohamaru shook his head. "nope. Not Uncle Asuma."
Moegi perked up. "Oh! You mean Hitomi! You're cousin! I know she can be a bit of a tomboy, but-"
Konohamaru glared, "NO! Certainly not her, "he said, annoyed. 'especially not her,' he thought to himself.
Moegi tilted her head in confusion. "Then who are you talking about?
Konohamaru smirked." Big brother Naruto. He's training me. He's the one who taught me how to climb up the ceiling without using my hands.
Moegi and Udon had stars in their eyes. "He did!?
Konohamaru nodded and crossed his arms, a smug expression on his face. "I'll tell him I need to get revenge on Hanabi for calling me a monkey."
Udon got excited at this prospect. "Ah! Do you think he'll teach us too?!
Konohamaru frowned. "Heck no. You guys can learn from someone else. Big brother Naruto is MY friend."
Udon looked deflated at that, and Moegi frowned, not liking how Konohamaru was being a bit mean about it. "Hey now! That's no fair! How can you go bragging about this guy and not let us take some pointers from him? You owe both of us anyway, remember?! Udon did your homework last Saturday when you 'forgot,' and I bailed you out of getting detention for pranks a few days ago!
Konohamaru pouted. "ok! Geez! But after this, I no longer owe you! And I won't convince him to help; you'll have to do it yourself.
Both kids shrugged, "Fine by use," they said simultaneously."
Line break.
{Land of Fire: Konohagakura: Training ground 4}
After school, Konohamaru and his friends went to where they figured Naruto might be, but there was no Naruto. Only Sasuke and Sakura. They seemed to be sparring.
"Is that Naruto? he looks so cool!" said Moegi.
Konohamaru shook his head and looked at her. " Uh, no. That's some other dude. His teammate, umm. Sonosuke Uchiha? Something like that."
Udon squinted his eyes, adjusting his glasses. "Well, where's Naruto?"
Konohamaru frowned, and a voice cut him off before he could say anything. "Looking for Naruto?
The kids screamed, jumping out of the bushes before turning to see they were right under Kakashi, who was sitting up in a tree. "Hey now, let's calm down. I didn't mean to startle you," the man said.
Konohamaru quickly collected himself before stepping forward. "You know where my brother is?"
Kakashi blinked before a bead of sweat went down the back of his head. "Brother?"
Konohamaru nodded and grinned. "yeah! He's teaching me all sorts of stuff! He's gonna help me get revenge on Hanabi!
Kakashi raised a brow. "well, sorry to Disappoint, but even I don't know. he was supposed to show up for training today but didn't. He's not missing, luckily. It seems your grandfather knows where he is. He'll be here in a few days.
Konohamaru threw his arms up. "Aww, c'mooon! Seriously?!"
Kakashi shrugged. "He's going through some important training right now. He'll be back soon."
"Umm, Kakashi sensei?" said Sakura from behind the kids. "Who are they?"
"Friends of Naruto, it seems." the silver-haired Jonin said.
Konohamaru turned to the girl and smirked. "My name is Konohamaru Sarutobi! The grandson to the Third Hokage and a future Hokage myself! Nice to meet you!" the boy boisterously announced, and Moegi quickly bowed in respect while introducing herself. Udon just fidgeted shyly while doing the same.
Before Sakura could say anything, Sasuke was there as well. "So Naruto has been playing with a bunch of kids?
Konohamaru turned to glare. "Not playing! Training. I'm learning cool ninja stuff."
Kakashi sighed as the conversation didn't stop, so he returned to his tree. Little kids can be hard to shake, so he decided to make himself scarce.
Line break.
{Hidden Location: Mount Myoboku}
The Konohamaru Troupe scurried off after getting no info on the whereabouts of Naruto, and this left Konohamaru even more pissed than he was before.
It was unfortunate, but there was nothing that could be done. Konohamaru had already gone to Naruto's apartment three times that day and almost resorted to breaking in. There was no one there, and so they were made to wait for Naruto's return.
Naruto, meanwhile, had just gone through his own trials and tribulations in trying to access the Kyuubi's chakra.
Jiraiya was sitting down, staring at the boy, taking notes of the changes being made to the boy's physiology. Hair standing up, eyes turning red with slits, claws, sharper teeth, and more muscle definition.
To Jiraiya's relief, though far more aggressive and impatient, Naruto is very much in control.
"How do you feel, kiddo? Are there any changes to your mental state?
Naruto grits his teeth. "I'm in a constant state of being pissed off."
Jiraiya nodded; this was not new information to him. Kushina expressed the same thing when in this state. "And you can access this chakra with ease?
Naruto gave him a withering glare, and Jiraiya backed off. Ok, I'll take that as a no.
Jiraiya wrote something down on his notepad before he nodded to the boy. Naruto planted his hand on his stomach, twisted, and his features returned to normal.
Naruto fell on his knees and took a breather. "That was very unpleasant, old man.
Jiraiya nodded. 'We've been at this for days and can only access the influence stage of its power. Anything after that, and the boy almost doesn't recognize anyone or anything. How troublesome.' thought Jiraiya.
He sighed and got into a lounging position. "Oh well. Let's move on to something else. How's the homework assignment I gave you? Can you pop the rubber balloon?"
Naruto scowled before standing up. He took his hand out, and to Jiraiya's shock, a slightly unstable Rasengan formed in his hand.
Jiraiya jumped to his feet. "H-Holy Shit, kid! Have you finished already?! How! It took me a month to learn that thing! And you do it in a couple of days?!
Naruto shrugged as he stared at the ball of chaotic chakra in his hand. "The exercises weren't difficult considering how delicate my control over chakra has become. Obviously, it isn't fully mastered, but with some more time, I'll be finished."
Jiraiya could only stare in shock and awe, his mind going in all sorts of directions.
'This is crazy! I knew he'd snowball, but not by this much! He's learning things at a rate I can only imagine with him being so young and inexperienced,' Jiraiya thought to himself, a smile on his face.
"Am I the son of the fourth Hokage? Asked Naruto dully, the boy staring at the distorted Rasengan in his hand with a neutral expression.
Jiraiya froze at this. "Huh?"
"I'm no fool Jiraiya. I know a lot more than I let on, even now. This is one of the fourth's treasured jutsu. Godfather or not, I don't think any random kid would be taught how to utilize one of the man's jutsu without some kind of explanation.
Jiraiya sighed. "You are jumping to conclusions, kid. listen, I-"
"You lied just now," Naruto said calmly.
Jiraiya raised a brow. "Huh?
Naruto dispelled his jutsu and crossed his arms. "You lied. I can tell when you're lying. I don't know why, but the Kyuubi's chakra is heightening my senses in odd ways. I don't know how to turn it off now. I do know that whenever you say something that's off or doesn't add up, a wave of Mental energy goes through me that alerts me of something being wrong."
Jiraiya blinked a bit in shock, not having any response to what was being said. 'The hell is he-? The Ninetails!' he thought alarmed. "How long has this been going on?"
Naruto pointed at his abdomen. "ever since you loosened the seal.
Jiraiya grimaced and went into thought. "Hmmm. Interesting. Well, I suppose having such an ability will-"
"Jiraiya," Interrupted Naruto. "Give me the truth."
Jiraiya groaned and sat down. "Ok, ok. You got me. You are the son of my greatest student. Minato Namikaze is your father.
Naruto nodded. "Thank you. That's all I wanted to know."
Jiraiya blinked. 'That's it? No major reaction? No anger? Joy? Sadness? nothing?' thought Jiraiya.
A worrying matter was whenever Kushina didn't react to something that should have pissed her off. He hates comparing or using his parents as a comparison, but it's the only way he can predict what the kid is thinking or feeling. Right now, if he had to guess, he's simply shutting off his emotions to focus on other matters.
'Maybe he's like her, and it'll take some time to process before it sinks in. He does seem a bit off in that regard. Or is it that he's like Minato in how he approaches things?'
"Are you not mad?" asked Jiraiya.
Naruto gave him a look. "Of course not. I already threw my little tantrum when finding out about the Kyuubi being sealed inside of me. I wasn't a ninja then. I am now. As for my Father, I don't know how I feel about him yet.
Jiraiya nodded, calming down a little. Ok then. Good. Moving on to another matter, it's time we head back to the village. I've kept you for long enough."
Naruto stretched, nodding. Ok, I'll go say bye to Ma and Pa.
Jiraiya waved him off before crossing his arms, a worried look in his eye as he watched the boy go. 'The ability to sense mental energy? Mental energy is the second source granted to us, shinobi, aside from physical. To access an ability that can tamper or detect such a thing is incredible. This is no doubt a side effect of the Kyuubi's influence. But is it subconscious? Or is this the Kyuubi choosing when it wants to grant this ability?
Jiraiya put his palm to his head and groaned in annoyance. "This could cause problems, but it is also a good thing... I suppose.
Line break.
One day later
May 19th
{Land of Wind: The capital of Wind: Lord Taira's Manse}
Trying to get Lord Taira to cooperate with their schemes against the Wind Daimyo wasn't easy. For all intents and purposes, he was a noble who had already been forgotten by the capital and had no means of gaining influence on his own. Yet, despite this, he still held a very small amount of affection for his younger brother.
The man wasn't desperate enough to consider taking out his own sibling. Of course, this meant Kabuto had to stage a false assassination attempt on the man. A simple case of planting orders, sending a suicide unit in, and orchestrating a scenario where Kabuto eliminates this individual himself.
It couldn't be random, either. No, he had someone both brothers knew to do the deed.
It was a chain of events. Threaten the would-be false assassin into doing his bidding by targeting his family, have the scene play out by getting Taira's guard down and allowing the assassin in, have the assassin killed by Kabuto, and Taira to see it all play out.
The scene was so well done that Kabuto almost believed it himself.
Taira was naturally infuriated after having the assassin interrogated and had every reason to be. he planned on confronting his brother about the incident, but Kabuto insisted otherwise. He offered to help the man, promising to bring justice to his older brother; he had to do this without becoming his follower.
That was all three days ago. Three days of persuasion of Tairo, surrounding nobility, and other rivals in an unrealistic timeframe. It just went to show how cutthroat the capital had become since the penny pincher Daimyo had become their leader.
"I won't be incriminated?" asked the nervous nobleman.
Kabuto nodded and crossed his legs." you'll be protected from any reprisals. I can't disclose the nature of how things will go down until things are more solid. However, what I will tell you is that this will be a smooth operation. All we need to do is remove him from the picture, and you will have free reign over this country,
The noble nodded slowly, a slight sheen of sweat going down the man's brow. "Is there any way I can thank the Kazekage for his unwavering support? surely, he isn't doing this out of the kindness of his heart.
Kabuto scratched the back of his head and readjusted his Sunagakure headband before answering, "As you know, your brother has been focusing on filling his coffers rather than helping Sunagakure grow. This is apparent when he gives missions out to Konoha rather than to his own ninja village.
Tairo began to sweat. "You mean..."
"The kazekage wants to put an end to this. His village is stagnant and growing weaker. He has a plan, and it's simple. We end your brother's reign, eliminate Konoha as a contender or possible threat, and install you as the new Wind Daimyo. In return, and for your protection, you need to give Rasa more control over what goes on with his nation."
Tairo blinked at that and breathed deeply to calm his nerves before speaking again. "I see. You want me to become a puppet."
Kabuto raised a brow. "Well... not quite. You can discuss that bit with Lord Kazekage. I just want to confirm that you'll help us out with our plans."
Tairo sighed before nodding. "Fine, I suppose. This isn't what I thought it was, but the world isn't exactly kind to those like me. I'll take what I can get. I'll take what was owed."
Kabuto nodded. "would you like me to escort you to the village? I understand that another assassination attempt on your life will happen on the way here, correct?"
Tairo nodded. "I'd appreciate that. I know your allegiances lie with Sunagakure, but if at all possible, would you consider becoming my right-hand man?"
Kabuto was a bit caught off guard, but it was understandable. "I'll have to think about it. That's a big decision to make for a simple grunt. We'll see when everything plays out."
Tairo nodded slowly, "Very well then."
Tairo ushered a servant over. "get us some more refreshments, please."
The servant nodded and bowed, going to get what his lord ordered.
"I want you to tell me about this plan," said Tairo. "What can be expected?"
Kabuto sighed. "It's simple. Your brother goes to Konoha, and the event kicks off. Then, he disappears on the road out of the village. When all is said and done, the Kazekage will perform the coup and install you as the new ruler of Wind country.
Tairo understood the vague answer given. "I see."
the servant came back, and Kabuto thanked the man before taking the wine. He poured the noble some before himself and set the wine back down.
Kabuto looked out of the large window in the hall. "We need to get going. There is only a limited window before things need to kick off. We still have some time, but not a lot. It'll start soon.
Tairo nodded and sipped his wine. "I'll meet with the Kazekage then. Thank you for everything. I won't forget this."
Kabuto smiled. "Likewise, my lord. I won't forget that you gave Suna the chance it deserves.
Tairo raised his glass at that. "To new allies."
Kabuto chuckled. "To new alliances."
Tairo would then pack his things to meet with the Kazekage, and Kabuto wrote a letter in advance to both Orochimaru and the Kazekage.
Once he had sent these birds off, he lounged and waited for the other party to get the information and begin putting their pieces in place.
He couldn't wait. Things were just starting.
'Oh, Orochimaru. What would you do without me.' he thought to himself.
Line break.
{Land of fire: Konohagakure: Hokage's office}
June 19th
Naruto stood in the office of the Hokage; his arms crossed as the old man seemed to think about what he's been told.
Jiraiya stood behind him, looking uncertain as silence permeated the room
The Hokage rummaged through his things after a moment of thinking and began writing. "Initially, I was going to wait until the exams before entrusting you with this. But time was running out anyway, and with you knowing who your Father is, I don't feel the need to keep anything more from you."
the old man found what he was searching for and handed a piece of paper over to Naruto, who took it.
Naruto frowned when he read it and looked back up at the Hokage.
"I'll need someone to go over this document for me. The words are advanced even for me, and I don't want to misunderstand anything," said Naruto slowly.
Jiraiya planted a hand on the boy's shoulder. "That's why I'm here. I have other people who can also go over this. But what's the matter?"
Naruto's expression grew somber. "This is my Father's will. It has a lot on it that pertains to lands held outside of Konoha, locations scattered throughout Fire country."
Hiruzen nodded. "They are hotspots related to his business. This document isn't just a will but his title. The moment this is turned in, Naruto, you will hold claims to an absurd amount of wealth and positions that can be challenged and usurped upon your ascension as Namikaze Naruto.
Naruto scanned the document further, raising both eyebrows. " This was updated last month. Konoha has already absorbed my Father's wealth!"
Hiruzen nodded. "Don't worry about the wealth. Most of it was in the form of physical assets that can be claimed as soon as you become the head of your family.
Naruto's jaw tensed, but he kept reading.
Naruto read and read, sitting down as he did so.
Jiraiya helped the boy decipher some of the more complex words he was having trouble with, but the Sannin himself was in awe.
"Minato's wealth had become Konoha's, but his wealth wasn't at all what would make you influential." Said Hiruzen. " Minato was the leader of a trading company called The Silverwind Trading Company.
Naruto nodded his head. "what did this company specialize in?
Jiraiya leaned in closer to inspect the document. "If i remember correctly, Metals and Alloys were what the company specialized in. from sourcing rare metals and alloys from the Land, including gold, platinums, and even exotic crystals, Minato held a monopoly. Your mother also had stakes in this as well, controlling part of the company that dealt in Luxury Goods and Artifacts: Leveraging her extensive network of contacts and agents across the country to get what she wanted at any given point.
"It also deals in exotic luxury goods and ancient artifacts from a time long forgotten. These items include fine silks, rare spices, mystical relics like... the Shinigami's mask, and other works of art coveted by collectors and connoisseurs.
Naruto slowly nodded his head. "So this was a bigshot company. Who owns it now? How was it split up?"
Hiruzen smirked. "Minato, before his death, had his colleagues controlling key parts of the company to reign as Hokage. When he died, certain parts were naturally handed down to those he had intentions of giving away. Everything else just happened to stay in the hands of those who were in control at the time, and the titles were split into what is today largely considered the Merchant Guild.
Naruto's eyes widened. "The civilian council," he whispered.
Hiruzen nodded. "Indeed. That's not the only thing to worry about, though. The Daimyo was afraid of your Father. He may try to side with the council in order to prevent a force on that scale from forming again.
Naruto groaned. He's been given a clearer picture of the nature of his enemies, from the civilian council to both Kumo and Iwa to his country's very own Daimyo. He'll have a lot to deal with when he assumes his title and the role that comes with it.
Naruto put a hand to his face in aggravation. "I guess I need to prepare for what's to come. Thank you for sharing this, but hold onto it until I become Chuunin."
Naruto handed the documents back to Hiruzen, and the old man set it down next to himself to return it to the safe.
"Now, Naruto. Tell me, and be truthful. How are you feeling?" Hiruzen asked.
Naruto seemed to stare off momentarily, which worried both men.
Naruto eventually answered. "I have mixed emotions. I know who I am now... or who I'm supposed to be anyway. My Father sealed the ninetails inside of me, ignorant to how the population would treat me. But I don't think he accounted for the secret of my status getting out. I'm apparently very rich, but claiming the wealth I'm entitled to will bring me more enemies than I had before. I feel the weight of my inheritance weighing heavily on my shoulders... I'm bitter... but more than everything, I now have a new dream."
"And what is that?" asked Hiruzen.
"To become better than my father."
Line break.
End chapter