Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm
Chapter 30: Political Crossroads
Author's Note:
Welcome back, dear readers! I sincerely apologize for the delayed posting; life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Chapter 30 of "Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm" is filled with tension, political intrigue, and the unwavering bonds of friendship that guide our protagonist through these trying times. Let's dive in!
"Home is not where you live but where they understand you." – Christian Morgenstern
Join ThirdFireTriden on Pa(tre) on !
Chapter 31: A Fitting Punishment IS OUT!
Chapter 32: Embracing Change IS OUT!
Chapter 33- Monster of a Sensei IS OUT!
Chapter 34: "The Uchiha and the Tower" IS OUT!
Chapter 35: "Convergence of Fates" IS OUT!
Chapter 36: "The Metamorphosis" IS OUT!
Chapter 37: "Formation of the Outcasts" IS OUT!
Chapter 38: Web of Influence IS OUT!
Chapter 39: Power Shifts and Rising Storms IS OUT!
Chapter 40: Choices? IS OUT!
Happy reading!
Last time on Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm
"Wolf," Hiruzen said, his voice commanding. "Welcome back. Come in."
As Naruto shifted his gaze to the other occupants of the room, he saw familiar and formidable faces. Lord Homura, whom he had seen during his reserve genin initiation test, stood with an air of authority. Beside him was Lady Koharu, identifiable by Shisui's detailed descriptions. The third figure sent a shiver down Naruto's spine—a bandaged man whose very presence exuded danger. Shisui had warned him about this individual, one of the most dangerous men in the elemental nations.
NOW
"Lord Third, elders," Naruto began, going on one knee.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, made a subtle hand gesture. In an instant, Team Agis flickered out of the room, leaving Naruto alone with the elders. The heavy wooden doors closed behind them, and a sealing jutsu activated, creating a privacy barrier around the room. The atmosphere grew tense as the elders focused their attention solely on Naruto.
It was Lady Koharu who broke the uncomfortable silence. "Tokubetsu Jonin Uzumaki, you have come back to the village twelve days prior to the completion of your mission. Is that right?"
"Yes, Lady Koharu," Naruto replied, keeping his voice steady.
"And why did you jeopardize your cover and the integrity of the Leaf by blatantly showing that you are one of our spies?" she demanded, her tone sharp and accusatory.
Before Naruto could answer, Hiruzen cut in, his voice stern. "Now, Koharu. Let him explain. Give a full debriefing of the incident and the mission."
Naruto knew they had the mission scroll he had sent, yet the Third Hokage wanted to hear it from his mouth. He took a deep breath, steadying himself. "I started from the last delivery of information I could manage, which was sent to you twenty days ago. After that, my cover was compromised. I found myself being hunted relentlessly by the rebel hunter division led by Ao," Naruto recounted the events, his voice steady but carrying the weight of the harrowing experience.
Lord Homura leaned forward, his eyes piercing and unyielding. "What was your relationship with Jinin Akebino, the Wraith of the Mist (Kiri no Bōrei)?"
Naruto chose his words carefully, knowing that every detail mattered. "Jinin Akebino saw potential in me and took me under his wing. He valued my skills and believed that I could be a significant asset to their cause. Our relationship was based on mutual respect and a shared goal."
Lady Koharu's eyes narrowed, her suspicion evident. "And what of Pakura? How did you interact with her?"
"Pakura of the Scorch Style ( Shakuton no Pakura) was initially suspicious of me. However, over time, we formed a mutual respect. She recognized the value of my abilities and began to trust my intentions. Our interactions were professional, but she saw me as a capable ally," Naruto explained, his tone measured.
Homura pressed further, not letting up. "How close are you to the rebel leader Mei Terumi, the possible next Mizukage if the rebels win?"
Naruto took a moment to gather his thoughts, aware of the delicate nature of this information. "Mei Terumi and I interacted occasionally during my time with the rebels. She appreciated my contributions to their cause and saw me as an asset due to my bloodline being one of the reason.
Lady Koharu's eyes bore into Naruto, demanding more. "How did you manage to escape despite such overwhelming odds? And how many people have you killed in your escape?"
Naruto felt a bead of sweat trickle down his back. He took a deep breath to steady himself. "Escaping was far from easy," he began, his voice calm despite his internal turmoil. "Ao is a highly skilled hunter with sensory abilities that surpass most. Given the situation, maintaining my cover was impossible. They were closing in on me rapidly. I had to make a split-second decision. Escaping was the only viable option to ensure the mission's integrity and deliver the crucial information I had gathered."
He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "As for the number of people I killed during my escape, the answer is zero."
Lady Koharu's eyes narrowed further. "Zero? Are you saying you didn't kill anyone? Are you compromised, Uzumaki? Do you have any attachments to the Mist rebels? It's not uncommon for long-term undercover agents, especially someone as young as you, to form bonds."
Naruto felt a wave of panic rise within him, but he forced himself to remain calm. He had anticipated this line of questioning, thanks to Shisui's warnings. "I didn't want to create an international incident," Naruto replied, his voice steady but firm. "The possibility of the rebels winning is very high. They have also made inroads with the Land of Water Daimyo. I didn't want to create an international incident by killing Mist shinobi, rebel or otherwise."
Koharu's gaze remained sharp, scrutinizing every word. "So, you're saying that you refrained from killing to avoid diplomatic repercussions?"
"Yes, Lady Koharu," Naruto affirmed. "Maintaining the integrity of our mission and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed was crucial. My objective was to gather information and ensure it reached you without igniting further conflict."
Hiruzen's face was impassive, but Naruto could sense his displeasure. "Explain to me once again why you didn't escape to some other place that wouldn't implicate our village and avoid the repercussions, especially since you mentioned that the rebels may win this conflict."
Naruto took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Lord Third, escaping to another location would have been nearly impossible under the circumstances. I was uncovered due to a compromised agent of Lord Jiraiya, who I had to meet for a critical information exchange. When I was discovered, I was luckily on the periphery of the islands of the Mist, close to the Land of Noodles. There was no other viable place to escape, especially since I was also being hunted by both the rebel hunter division and Mist shinobi."
He paused, ensuring his explanation was clear. "Ao, a member of the rebel hunter division, had uncovered me. He possessed a Byakugan, which allowed him to see through my disguises and jutsu. With the Byakugan, Ao could track me with unmatched precision. My cover was blown, and they were closing in on me from all sides."
Naruto continued, "Due to Jinin Akebino's training in silent killing and stealth, my rank in the Bingo Book had not gone up significantly. I also used to wear a Mist ANBU mask to conceal my identity while on open confrontation, but despite these precautions, I am listed as a C-rank missing shinobi of the Mist in their Bingo Book. My options were extremely limited, and any attempt to flee to a different area would have likely resulted in immediate capture or worse."
"Given the situation, the only viable escape route led me back towards Konoha. My primary objective was to ensure the safe delivery of the critical information I had gathered. If I had been captured, all the intel would have been lost, and the consequences could have been far worse for both our village and the stability of the region. Returning directly to Konoha was the best way to guarantee the mission's success and to bring this vital information to your attention."
The elders' eyes widened at the mention of the Byakugan. An unsealed Byakugan in the hands of Kiri was a significant threat. Danzo leaned forward, his interest piqued. "What of the eye? Could you retrieve it?"
Naruto took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding. "The Byakugan is safe with me, sealed in a container," he replied. "I don't know exactly how Ao obtained it, but it's likely he acquired it during the last Shinobi War, around the time he lost his right eye. Despite working closely with Ao, I never knew he had a dojutsu, let alone a Byakugan. It was always concealed and covered with seals, making it impossible to detect. I always thought he was a great sensor and never became suspicious of him having a dojutsu. He controlled his movements well."
Danzo's gaze intensified, his interest clearly heightened. "Hand it over. We will do what is necessary."
Naruto nodded. "Of course, Lord Danzo. I have already sent a message to Lord Hiashi, stating that I had retrieved one of their clan's eyes. I thought I would deliver it to them personally, but if you insist, I can give it to you."
The elders exchanged looks, realizing the political maneuver Naruto had just executed against them. By involving Lord Hiashi, Naruto had ensured his protection. Any action against him would be seen as an affront to the Hyuga, a clan already sensitive due to past issues and the state of the Hokage in the Kumo incident.
The elders knew in one stroke Naruto had gained the protection of the Hyuga. Since he was returning the eye, the Hyuga would be honor-bound to protect him. Any punitive action taken against him for this mission would be seen as an action against the Hyuga. With the alienation of the Uchiha clan, they could not hope to afford to take on the second strongest clan of the village.
Homura's eyes flickered with understanding. The boy's actions have put us in a delicate position. If we move against him, it will be perceived as a slight against the Hyuga. Given their importance and influence, we cannot risk losing the Hyuga clan's support.
Koharu understood that the resentment of the Hokage and the elders from the Hyuga incident with Kumo was still fresh in their minds. To punish Naruto now, especially after he retrieved a Byakugan, would draw unpleasant parallels. It would seem as if the protection of the Byakugan for the second time was met with punishment, undermining their trust in us.
Danzo's expression tightened. He understood the political ramifications. The Uchiha clan is already isolated and discontented. Any action against the boy could push the Hyuga clan to go against us, which would give the Uchiha time to maneuver and get back into the playing field. That is a risk we cannot take.
Hiruzen's gaze sharpened as he observed Naruto. You have ensured the Byakugan's return to the Hyuga, a gesture that will undoubtedly earn their gratitude and support. Good work.
Naruto nodded, sensing the shift in the room's atmosphere. He had played his cards well, but now that the adrenaline was wearing off, a wave of panic began to set in. Internally, he was freaking out. Where had he found the courage and sheer madness to go against some of the strongest people in the village?
As he stood there, he could almost hear Mangetsu Hozuki's voice in his head, egging him on. That blasted swordsman from the Mist had a notorious reputation for lacking any self-preservation, often throwing himself into dangerous situations with reckless abandon. Naruto realized with a mix of horror and amusement that Mangetsu's audacity had rubbed off on him during their interactions.
What have I done? he thought, his mind racing. I've just challenged the top brass of the village! He glanced at the elders, their scrutinizing gazes making him sweat bullets. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, was still watching him, his expression unreadable. Danzo's eyes were narrowed, calculating, and Lady Koharu and Lord Homura looked like they were chewing on something sour.
Naruto's internal monologue went into overdrive. Okay, Naruto, breathe. You've got this. You just pulled off a crazy stunt, but it worked... I think. He kept a straight face, but inside, he was a mess. Where did I get the nerve to do this? Oh right, Mangetsu and his zero sense of self-preservation! If I survive this, I'm going to kill him. He could almost picture Mangetsu's smug grin, the bastard.
Lord Third broke the tense moment by saying, "What is this vital information you have for which you felt it necessary to return to the village in person?"
Lady Koharu's annoyance was evident. "What is this?" she snapped, irritated by the notion that a child was playing politics against them.
Naruto took a deep breath. "The Fourth Mizukage is being controlled by a powerful genjutsu. This is the finding of the rebel leaders. Considering Ao had a Byakugan, it's almost certain. The evidence points to someone manipulating Yagura from the shadows. I was going to send this information via Lord Jiraiya's agent, but since he was compromised, I didn't have any other option but to make it back to the village alive."
The room fell silent, the weight of Naruto's words sinking in. It was irrefutable that information about the Mizukage being compromised was an extremely important message, actually an SS-class secret worth fortunes. Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. "This changes everything. If Yagura is being controlled, the dynamics of the Mist Village's conflict are far more complex than we anticipated."
Danzo's eyes narrowed. "And what proof do you have of this genjutsu?"
Naruto met his gaze steadily. "I don't have tangible proof, but the behavior and actions of Yagura, coupled with Ao's possession of the Byakugan, strongly suggest manipulation. The rebels believe it, and given the circumstances, it's a plausible conclusion."
Lady Koharu's expression softened slightly, though her tone remained harsh. "You have put us in a difficult position, Uzumaki. Your actions, while brave, have exposed us to potential backlash."
Naruto remained on one knee, his head bowed. "I understand, Lady Koharu. But I believed that getting this information to you directly was of the utmost importance."
Hiruzen sighed, the lines of worry deepening on his face. "Uzumaki, you will go to the ANBU barracks and undergo a thorough mental and physical reevaluation. If the results are positive, you will be placed on probation for the next 18 days starting tomorrow. After that, we will reevaluate your skills and rank."
Naruto nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Understood, Lord Third."
Hiruzen's gaze softened slightly. "You have done well to bring this information to us, Special Jonin Uzumaki. But we must ensure that you are in the best possible condition to continue serving the village."
With a motion of the Hokage's hand, the ANBU guards materialized from the shadows. Their presence was sudden and almost ethereal, a testament to their skill and training. "Take him to the ANBU barracks and get the evaluation done," Hiruzen ordered.
Naruto knew the procedure. Until he was cleared, he was considered a suspect. As he left the Hokage's chamber, Team Agis joined him again, though they maintained a precise distance, indicating their role as both protectors and monitors. The militaristic style of their formation was clear: Naruto was guarded, or perhaps in arrest, depending on one's perspective.
He had already donned his wolf mask, the symbol of his ANBU identity, and adjusted his ANBU uniform. The mask was a comfort, a reminder of his role and the responsibilities that came with it. The group moved in silence through the village, their footsteps barely audible against the cobblestone streets. Villagers turned to watch, curiosity and concern etched on their faces, but none dared approach the solemn procession.
The ANBU barracks loomed ahead, a fortress of secrecy and strength. The entrance was heavily guarded, with sentries posted at strategic points. As Naruto and his escort approached, the gates opened, allowing them entry. The interior of the barracks was a stark contrast to the outside world—sterile, efficient, and devoid of unnecessary decoration.
Naruto was led to a secure room, where the ANBU medics and psychological evaluators from the Yamanaka clan were already waiting. The room was equipped with advanced medical equipment and monitoring devices, reflecting the thoroughness of the evaluations to be conducted.
"Special Jonin Uzumaki," one of the medics addressed him. "We will begin with a physical examination, followed by a psychological assessment. Please follow our instructions closely."
Naruto complied, submitting to the various tests and procedures. The physical examination was rigorous, testing his endurance, reflexes, and overall health. The medics were thorough, leaving no aspect unchecked. He was subjected to intense exercises, stress tests, and endurance drills. Every muscle, every nerve was tested and retested to ensure there was no weakness, no sign of injury or fatigue that could compromise his effectiveness.
Following this, he was guided to a separate chamber for the psychological evaluation. The room was dimly lit, with a single chair placed in the center. Inoichi Yamanaka, head of the Yamanaka clan and a renowned expert in mind techniques, awaited him.
"Special Jonin Uzumaki, please take a seat," Inoichi instructed, his voice calm and professional.
Naruto did as he was told, sitting down and meeting Inoichi's steady gaze. The psychological evaluation would delve into his recent experiences, his mental state, and his resilience under pressure.
"We will begin with a series of questions to understand your mental and emotional condition," Inoichi began. "Describe your recent mission and the challenges you faced."
After rigorous physical and phycological evaluation, the door to his holding room opened, and one of the ANBU operatives stepped inside. "Your evaluations are complete. You will be informed of the results shortly. Until then, you are to remain here."
Naruto nodded, acknowledging the instructions. As the door closed again, he took a deep breath and prepared himself for whatever came next.
Stay tuned for the next exciting episode of Naruto: The Last Harbinger of Storm!
Join ThirdFireTriden on Pa(tre) on !
Chapter 31: A Fitting Punishment IS OUT!
Chapter 32: Embracing Change IS OUT!
Chapter 33- Monster of a Sensei IS OUT!
Chapter 34: "The Uchiha and the Tower" IS OUT!
Chapter 35: "Convergence of Fates" IS OUT!
Chapter 36: "The Metamorphosis" IS OUT!
Chapter 37: "Formation of the Outcasts" IS OUT!
Chapter 38: Web of Influence IS OUT!
Chapter 39: Power Shifts and Rising Storms IS OUT!
Chapter 40: Choices? IS OUT!
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