(Chapter 51: Time for Promotions?)
It would be a short time after the Chunin Exams Finals had ended and as such Konoha was still in an uproarious amount of raucous energy over what had transpired, with everyone that had bore witness to it; still being near gobsmacked over witnessing what was to go down in history as one of the all-time greatest Final portion of said Exams. That being said in the aftermath of it all, changes were going about the Village Hidden in the Leafs both for positive and negative in the future to come.
(August 7th, 998 S.E, Senju Hospital, 3:14 Pm)
It would be a full week in the aftermath of the Chunin Exams Finals, and the preparations for Dan's imminent inauguration as the 5th Hokage; that Minato and Kushina who finally had time to visit their twin children were now being given some rather horrible news in regards to one of them.
"H-He's what?!" Kushina questioned once more
"You heard correctly, Toshiro is essentially a vegetable…Honestly, with everything Naruto did to him; I can't say I am surprised by the state of things." Tsunade answered back
"Between the amount of damage that Naruto did to him that would have killed someone like Kakashi 5 times over. To the stress of going that far in the 9 tails power, when he has never been able to handle it before. On top of and I can't believe I'm saying this, having a tailed beast quite literally punched out of you…The fact that Toshiro didn't instantly die on the spot against Naruto is honestly nothing short of a god-given miracle." Tsunade further spoke in regards to how it was almost unreal to the fact that Toshiro had 'lived'
"What are the chances that he could still live?" Minato asked while knowing that the answer wouldn't be a positive one
"To be perfectly blunt, even with my medical prowess and putting him on life-support. He is as good as dead…Even if we did manage to keep him alive, and that by itself is a massive if given how much damage his body has been put through. He would essentially be brain-dead, as it was only thanks to how absolutely resilient Kushina is even by Uzumaki standards that she lived through getting the 9-tails torn out of her…Toshiro on the other hand isn't that lucky, and was hit by so many powerful attacks, in a state that was already damaging him on a cellular level already, on top of the 9-tails being forcibly ejected out of one of the strongest seals to date…I-I don't know what more can be said except he's a walking corpse with weeks maybe a month or two before he kills over." Tsunade answered back in being as perfectly straight with them as possible on the matter
"And what about Mizore?...What has happened to her, now that both halves of the 9 tails have been rejoined?" Mianto further asked as Kushina found herself struggling not to shut down at the news of having to bury one of her children
"Her condition has improved by a considerable margin, all things considered…Now that the 9 tails is at full strength once again, she has shown signs of improvement." Tsunade told the two in regards to her recovery rate showing signs of improvement
"However, with that being said. I have had to increase the guards in her room, given that unlike Kushina when she was a jinchuuriki. Mizore is considerably more unstable, especially after her loss to Naruto in the preliminaries." Tsunade added
Given that in the aftermath of her one-sided defeat against Naruto, that Mizore's mental state had taken a nosedive since then, and even moreso with the news that Naruto had gone on to claim victory in dominating fashion in the Chunin Exams finals; with the promise of a promotion on the way and the favor of the Fire Daimyo to boot. Suffice to say that even a blind man could see that with how harsh her fall from grace had become over the months since becoming a genin, that Mizore was descending into madness, and having the 9-tailed fox who loathed their jinchuuriki since first being imprisoned within Mito made her far and away a ticking time bomb.
"And what do you suggest we do, Tsunade? Lock her away in an asylum and toss away the key." Minato questioned the blonde Sannin
"It wouldn't be my first suggestion, but given how much of a danger she could become. Especially to Naruto and anyone associated with him, and even to the general populace at large; now that public perception is against her. Then I would at least consider it." Was Tsunade's response
"I-I can't believe we're even having to consider this? First one of my sons is guaranteed to die, because of us not seeing the signs that he was a rotten person at the core. Then my other son disowns us and severs all connections to us as a family, and now you want us to consider locking away my only daughter?!" Kushina wondered in feeling as though her entire world had practically been torn to ribbons
"I wouldn't advise it, if I didn't think it was something to be done. But with how unstable she's become, and will become now that Naruto has surpassed her in every which way possible. Can you honestly say, with a straight face that she won't become a danger to him, anyone that feels positively towards him, or anyone who mentions him in a positive light…Can you say without a doubt that locking her way; wouldn't be the best for everyone's safety?" Tsunade said back in knowing that as it stood Mizore was nothing if not a danger to a considerable chunk of the village
"Tsunade, I-I just want to do what's best for my daughter. I can't just throw her away and toss the key, not when their has to be something I can do to help her…Anything to not make sure I don't lose both of my children." Kushina spoke in desperation to not lose both of her children
"I understand where your coming form, Kushina. Don't forget that I am a mother too, but even I know that with something this fucked. Especially, when the 9 tails is going to do everything it can to compromise her further, no matter how many seals you put on her. That she will do something so irredemable that it will force even Ozai to step in, and once that happens all cards are off the table." Tsunade said knowing that at this stage with how Ozai felt in the aftermath of the Exams that he wouldn't hesitate to put Mizore in Blood Prison for life or have her executed if she so much as inconvenienced him
"...I'm not telling you to make the decision right now, but what I am telling you is this…That right now, the options you do have are slim and are going to get even slimmer…So make peace with what will be needed, because now more than ever are you going to need to do waht has to be done for everyone's sake." Tsunade further spoke with a somberness and resoluteness in her voice that came from years of havign to deliver harsh news to patients and veterans alike of similar caliber
"I-I can't deal with this right now…I need to be alone." Were Kushina's only words as the stress and thought of everything going on was becoming too much to bare
"...Honestly, I'm surprised your still here too. This isn't any easier on you, either." Tsunade spoke in having noticing that Minato's trademark blonde hair had substantially more gray going through it
"Believe me, it isn't. But with going on, between Jiraiya being a rotten snake…or rather toad in the grass. Dan becoming the 5th Hokage in a few weeks time, the promotions taking place next week, Orochimaru actually being innocent ,and now everything going on with the twins. I don't really have the luxury of being able to break down or take things easy." Minato spoke in having so much to deal with all at once that it was enough to make anyone's head spin
"You really have been dealt a rotten hand as Hokage lately." Tsunade remarked at how sour things had gone for him as of late
"To really be truthful, Tsunade. I am almost glad that Dan is going to be replacing me. It isn't that I didn't love my job as Hokage, but moreso that after everything that has happened, I am just…done. Done with the stress of it all, done with having been hoodwinked by the man I used to idolize and see as my father, and done with my personal life being made a near nightmare in addition to my decisions." Minato spoke in having been thoroughly done with the position of Hokage over the past many months
"Hopefully, he will do a far better job of things than I have in recent years." Minato further spoke
"Don't beat yourself up too much, Minato. It isn't your fault that you were played by Jiraiya for so long…Seriously who could've seen it coming that Jiraiya ws playing everyone this bad. I was his teammate for gods' sake, even I didn't know about half of the crap he's done over the years." Tsunade replied knowing that Minato shouldn't be too hard on his himself
"Thank you for the words of comfort, but to be honest. I am just hoping that things won't be as troublesome after my tenure comes to a close." Minato hoped to himself
"I am sure it will…for now you have a lot more on your plate to deal with. Especially, since these next few weeks are going to be particularly rough going forward." Tsunade replied knowing that it wouldn't be easy whatsoever
"That is a vast understatement, Tsunade." Minato said back
'How I'm going to get through the rest of the year, I have no damned idea how.' Minato said to himself as he felt as though he were being further crushed by the world around him
(3 Days later, Hokage Tower, August 10th, 998 S.E, 1:00 Pm)
Meanwhile, in the days to follow Minato was gathered with Ozai, Orochimaru, and Dan on who would be promoted to Chunin;the exception to this meeting being that Rasa had fallen ill due to 'health issues' declining the meeting, as given that he was during his medical checkup seen projectile vomiting viscous bile mixed with blood...it made for a strong case for him not to be there.
"First things first, I would like to thank all of you for attending this meeting. After all, given what is to be discussed today. I would say that today is a rather important day." Lord Ozai spoke to all those present
"So with that being said, let us begin with our first candidate for promotions. That being none other than the victor of the Chunin Exams himself, and the unexpected powerhouse of this years' batch…Naruto Uzumaki." Lord Ozai spoke as a projection of Naruto appeared on a viewing screen
"If I may throw in my suggestion, I feel that the rank of Chunin would be a disservice for someone of his magnitude. Given that as we all have witnessed, his level of skill and strength is far beyond the pale of anything regarding it." Orochimaru said regarding her equal
"I agree, Orochimaru. However, he is much too green to be given the rank of jonin just yet. He may be far and above more powerful than anything we may see in our lifetime…But even still, I would say that promoting him directly too that is too much responsibility and duty at the moment." Dan replied in seeing Naruto as more than strong enough to be a jonin but nowhere near experience-wise to be one
"Fair enough. Which is why is everyone is willing to agree to it. I would say that making him a special jonin, would be a fair enough compromise. After all, it would allow him ample time to grow and take on leadership positions; while also giving him time to adjust to his new rank." Orochimaru said back in seeing the rank as a fair compromise
"That seems more than justifiable given his level of strength and skill, on top of his performance during the Exams…What about you, Minato and Dan? Do you feel the same?" Lord Ozai replied before looking towards both the current and soon to be Hokage's
"This is more than reasonable. With the immaculate track record he and his teammates have amassed during their time under Kazushi. Then I see no reason why he shouldn't have the rank of special jonin." Minato spoke in regards to Naruto's promotion to said rank
"I do not see a reason not to. My godson has proven time and time again alongside his friends that he is more than capable of the rank. All he needs is some experience out there in the world, and he would make an incredible jonin one day." Dan said in agreement
"Very well…Now then, moving onto his teammates. I believe they are also deserving of the rank of special jonin. Given that they are no doubt at the level of Kage's, and possess specializations in their respective skillsets to warrant it. On top of that they have also proven themselves to be rather skillful both on both missions with and without their team, and as such are more than worthy of said promotion." Lord Ozai said in regards to Sasuke and Sakura
"I will not lie, that they are both standouts in their graduating class. Given how far they were able to proceed in the Chunin Exams…If it was their own teammate who stood in the way of them claiming victory in the Finals, then I see no reason as to why they should not have the rank of special jonin." Orochimaru replied in seeing both as prodigious next to Naruto
'In fact, they might even be able to contend with Jirobo or Kidomaru…Kimimaro would be a stretch given how far he's progressed since coming into his full strength. But nonetheless, are still incredible in their potential…Perhaps, if possible that Uchiha boy will allow me to do an experiment to unlock the next stage of his Sharingan is willing.' Orochimaru remarked to themselves before an idea for an experiment she'd always wanted to do crossed her mind
"I told you that my daughter was able train an incredible sort…I just never imagined it would wind up with them being a rank short of becoming jonin." Dan spoke in never thinking he'd see the day where his daughter would be a stellar sensei
"Take more pride in her, Dan. You raised a fine young lady with your wife. It only stands to reason that with the two of you helping her to grow and evolve as a person and shinobi. That she would have what it takes to train a fantastic team of genin." Orochimaru said to the soon-to-be 5th Hokage
"Thank you, Orochimaru. Even after all this time, you know just what to say." Dan spoke happy to see that after all this time that Orochimaru was still more of the same that he knew years ago
"Of course, after all, it is not hard to recognize talent when it stands before you." Orochimaru replied
"I would have to agree as well…Out of all of the genin present, Kazushi's genin showed the most potential yet. As such it would be a disservice not to promote them of a deserving rank." Minato said back
"Good…Now that they are out of the way, let us move on to the others that had showed promise as Chunin hopefuls. That being Gaara of the Desert, Neji Hyuga, and Suyin of Otogakure." Lord Ozai spoke regarding the remaining trio that were deserving of such
"I would say that all 3 are deserving of a promotion. Given that all of them managed to make it too, or did rather well within the finals. I would say that they have earned their promotion to Chunin." Dan said in regards to the next batch of Chunin hopefuls
"I agree in regards to Neji Hyuga, the young man was able to make it incredibly far in the Exams. So much so that he was able to contend with even Sasuke…Someone who was trained by one of the most formidable kenjutsu practitioners' in Konoha." Orochimaru spoke
"If that does not speak volumes toward the level of skill that young man has. I do not know what will. Therefore, I say that he should be granted the rank of Chunin alone. Especially when his talent is far more than that of even the members of the Main Branch when you get right to it." Orochimaru further added
"That cannot be denied given that he executed the Gentle Fist and even the Main Branch's techniques, better than most…Better yet the only one; to do a performance of that caliber was Hiashi's eldest." Minato remarked in how Neji's performance and use of the Gentle Fist was almost a mirror of what Hanabi had been able to do during her time in the Exams
"You certainly aren't wrong about that, Minato. If it weren't for the fact that my son had trained Sasuke so well, then that match would have been much, much closer…As a matter of fact, it could have gone either way at that point." Dan remarked knowing that had it not been for Lyoto's training that Sasuke's victory would've been more on a razor's edge than anything
"Given that he is a one-of-a-kind talent amongst his own clan, that regardless of his being a member of the side Branch, I will approve his promotion to Chunin..Honestly, it telling when someone from the side branch is far and a way more prodigous than Hiashi's own flesh and blood. Makes me wonder why he is still allowed to lead the clan as is." Lord Ozai spoke his golden eyes piercing as ever
"Perhaps that is an issue we can visit after my coronation as 5th Hokage. There are a few things around the village that i want to clean up, and Hiashi's nepotism and running of his clan is one of them." Dan said in having a small number of things he wanted to improve around the village
"Consider it done, Dan. This place has fallen off somewhat, and not to the fault of Mianto. But moreso to a despicable toad that still needs dealt with before I return to the capital." Lord Ozai replied
"Thank you, and in regards to those that have been bested by my son's apprentice. What about this Suyin girl? Granted she wasn't able to progress further and show off more of what she was capable of, but against Sasuke she showed herself more than admirable." Dan said back before attention was turned towards the daughter of Jiraiya
"I agree, as even I have to admit that the fight she put on against Sasuke Uchiha was impressive…Which begs the question of how did you find one of Jiraiya's bastards, Orochimaru? I know you mentioned in passing you were at the right place at the right time. However, I feel as though there is more too it than that." Lord Ozai spoke his gaze meeting the Serpent Sannin's own
"...While I cannot give you the entire story, Lord Ozai. As that is for Suyin to tell at her own discretion, and I would be remiss I did that without her consent. I will say that i wanted to do what her home in Iwa wouldn't, when it was found out that she was one of Jiraiya's bastards…I wanted to give her a place where her talents and kekkei genkai would be able to flourish; without being held down by who her father was." Orochimaru told the Fire Daimyo before her
"So I did just that and moved her and her mother to Otogakure where they currently reside in. From thereon she has shown herself as nothing but a talented young woman who has the whole world ahead of her. And as such as someone who has seen her and others like her in my village grow to the best of her abilities. That she is deserving of the Rank of Chunin, as I will personally vouch for her in that regard." Orochimaru said with a level of care and sincerity in their voice that it surprised Minato and Dan the latter of whom hadn't seen this from their friend in ages since having Nawaki or Anko as her student
"She must really be something special if your willing to do that for her? I haven't seen you this supportive of someone since Anko." Dan remarked as Orochimaru gave a solemn chuckle
"Believe me, Dan. She like many others in my court are something truly spectacular, and as such it would be a waste to have them held back. Which is why I want to make sure that she is given the chance to flourish as I know she is capable of…I do not think that it should be held against her when she was able to push young Sasuke to such extents, as no offense to those of my former home. But I doubt anyone save the Hyuga, or Kazushi's team would've stood much chance against her." Orochimaru said back her eyes while showing a level of care for Suyin still held a terrifying calcuative menace underneath
Something that everyone in the room had to acknowledge given that while warmed by Orochimaru's pouring of care and support in vouching for Suyin, that it couldn't be denied that the Sannin in question was right about the prowess of Suyin overall. As had it been anyone else barring Team Kazushi, Neji to some extent or even Gaara, then her opponents would have been butchered by the unrelenting force that was the daughter of Jiraiya.
"You do make a compelling case, Orochimaru. Even I cannot overlook that beyond those exceptions, that many of those in the Exams would have been defeated by her." Minato replied in knowing the facts were something that couldn't be overlooked
"Even that rotten bastard Jiraiya trained to be the end all be all for world peace?" Lord Ozai callously questioned
"Yes, even him. Despite everything we put into his training, he was still brash, foolish, overwhelmingly arrogant…With how capable Suyin was, she would have no doubt been able to neutralize him before he could use any of the Sage techniques he learned from my sensei, or that of the 9 tails chakra; before he was defeated." Minato said in a concise enough manner to know that Toshiro would've handed himself a sound defeat in part to his own pride and recklessness
"I feel as though that is more than enough to have my approval on the matter. Would anyone else care to disagree?" Lord Ozai questioned as only silence remained
"Good. Now then onto our last subject of the day, Gaara of the Dessert. I honestly see no reason why she shouldn't become one as well. Given that the only reason why she didn't progress any further; was due to her affections for Naruto." Lord Ozai spoke as from his perspective even a blind man could see that she cared deeply for the blonde superhuman
"I see no reason not to. Even after everything Rasa put that poor girl through, she definitely has what it takes to become a Chunin and beyond…How she turned out so well, when she has someone like him as a father I will never know." Dan said in regards to the redhead in question
"I agree as well, if anything despite her hardships. I see her becoming something exceptional down the line, as her control over her tailed beasts' powers speak volumes with what she is able to do with them." Orochimaru said in seeing like Suyin that Gaara was something truly spectacular
"My vote is the same as well. That young woman is rather impressive, and could have no doubt gone further on in the finals if she did not have to face Naruto." Minato said back in agreement
"Very well, then that concludes who will and won't be promoted to Chunin and above. Thank you all for your time and a pleasant rest of your day…Excpet for you Dan, we still have much to discuss in regards to your impending coronation." Lord Ozai said as he dismissed everyone for the day with the exception of the soon to be 5th Hokage
"Understood, Lord Ozai." Dan replied as he stayed back to converse with his Daimyo
'Hmmm, it certainly looks like things are getting even more interesting for my equal. I wonder how things will go from here for him.' Orochimaru wondered as she departed from the premises
'At the very least, I was able to do one last good thing for Naruto before my forced retirement…Hopefully he is able to do better than me if he ever rises to the seat of Hokage one day.' Minato hoped to himself as he left the tower
(3 days later, August 13th, 998 S.E, Naruto's Farmhouse, 6:30 Pm)
It would soon be days later as a considerable number were gathered at Naruto's farmhouse to celebrate everyone being promoted to the ranks of Chunin and above, with good cheer and spirits for all being in the air at the momentous occasion.
"Well, guys we made it. We're not just Chunin, but we're also jonin on top of it too…I told you guys we were gonna be winning at life pretty soon!" Naruto said as he and his teammates looked upon the gathering of those in attendance
"We aren't full-fledged jonin just yet, but it is more than what we wanted out of the Exams." Sasuke said as he ate from his plate of food
"Hey, all I know is that we've finally punched our way up to the big leagues. That's all that matters to me, so from here on everything's coming up our way!" Naruto replied while eating more of his brisket with a toothy grin at how far they've come
"Plus, Sasuke finally has his in with the princess. So guess who finally has a chance to get lucky." Sakura said with an impish grin that borderline flustered the swordsman
"I-I will admit that it is welcoming to know that I can finally pursue Princess Azula. However, could you not broadcast such things in public Sakura? I would rather not have our leader's daughter know such things." Sasuke said back hoping that Azula was nowhere within earshot to hear
"Relax, man. I'm just giving you shit, besides we're all adults here. Its not like anyone is gonna flip out about you wanting to blow her back out." Sakura replied her grin never leaving
"Why are you like this?" Sasuke wondered giving her a squinted-eyed glare
"I have Nauto as a foster brother, I train and hang around a clan full of rowdy combat-loving super-assassins, and our sensei is one of the strongest stoners in existence. You do the math and wonder how I'm a super gremlin." Sakura said back in regards to how she was an ultra-violent gremlin a majority of the time
"She is right ya know. As it is a surprise you aren't a super-violent headass from sticking around us for so long." Naruto told the onyx-eyed swordsman
"To be honest, I'm surprised I haven't lost what little sense I have from being friends with the two of you. Sasuke said whilst eating more of his food
"However, I know that I wouldn't change any of what I have with either of you for anything in the world. The both of you are my greatest friends, and I love you both incredibly so." Sasuke further spoke in regards toward his feelings with Naruto and Sakura
"Ahhhh, look our grumpy swordsman finally said it." Sakura said back with a playfully chiding tone
"Come here you, you're getting hugged!" Naruto said after devouring the rest of what was on his plate
"Alright, fine. You both get ONE group hug out of me." Sasuke spoke as he was suddenly crushed by the two burisers of his team bear-hugging him
'They are so lucky I love them, or otherwise someone would have a kodachi in their leg right now.' Sasuke remarked to himself in begrudgingly liking the hug
'Oh come on, grouchy-pants. You know you love it!' Naruto said through the shared mind-link with a goober-like grin that belied his monstrous strenth
'Whatever, you telepathic oni.' Sasuke responded through their telepathic link
From thereon the trio of Team Kazushi continued enjoy the celebration with food and drink being provided by his dopplegangers, as the evening turning into night proceeded with a subdued amount of fanfare over the events of everyone in question being promoted. Wherein everyone did things from conversing with each other over accomplishing their recent achievements, playing a plethora of party games, enjoying the food provided among other things.
All the while Naruto was more than content and even joyful to be around the present company involved, given that he finally felt a measure of catharsis and happiness that came from having finally displayed his dominance over and crushed his siblings to settle once and for all that he was greater than them; despite all that they had handed to them. As such he couldn't help but feel the rage that he'd been holding onto since his childhood begin to leave him as the celebration continued in its entirety, leaving the inheiritor of Arceus's will with a sense of elation more than anything else.
"Looks like someone's feeling great about everything. Not that I can blame you, when your a damn jonin just damn near!" Came Mizuki's voice as he approached his favorite student
"Hey, Mizuki-sensei. Someone looks like their at a hundred percent again!" Naruto chirped at seeing his O.G sensei take a seat next to him on his porch eating cake
"Thanks to the medics at Root, and Pakura making sure that I eat better than I had before. I would say I'm feeling pretty awesome." Mizuki said in feeling like a million bucks since his full recovery
"That's pretty freakin' sweet! Also, wait a minute, you and Miss. Pakura are a thing now?" Naruto questioned the silver-haired Root operative
"Yeah actually. I asked her out the week before the finals hit, she said yes and so far things have been going pretty great." Mizuki said happily in regards to how things had gone thus far for him
"Well look at you go, being a smooth operator! I'm happy that you got yourself a lovely lady." Naruto replied happy in regards to Mizuki finding himself a significant other
"As long as Pakura is happy with how things are between us, then I'm happy as well. I just hope I can keep her happy for a long, long time." Mizuki said back in hopes of keeping his new girlfriend happy
"Look, if she can't continue to see how awesome you are as a person. Then shame on her, because you are by and wide one of the greatest men I know, sensei. And I put that on my powers!" Naruto told the Root Operative in question who half-sniffled/half-chuckled at hearing those words
"Thank you, Naruto, I can always count on you to cheer someone up." Mizuki said
"Hey, I might have God powers. But it doesn't do me or anyone else any good if I can't lift everyone up along with me." Naruto said back
"Otherwise, I'm just someone who can do almost anything…What's the point of having all this power, if I can't be there for everyone; I actually love and care for in the world? Not a lick of anything if you ask me." Naruto further spoke in regards to the near infinite nature of his powers
"...You are a great guy, Naruto. If there was anyone who is going to do a whole lot of good with those weird-ass powers of yours. Then I am sure as hell glad its you." Mizuki said in seeing that even still that Naruto remained the great young man that he'd been in the academy
"Thanks, and honestly, I feel…I feel really good about myself for the first real time in…ever, since I won the finals and got my rank-up. I don't know what it is, but now that I've finally squashed my dickhead siblings, and shown that I'm something more than worthwhile. I think that I'm finally happy with who I am, and where I'm going…Wherever that might be." Naruto told Mizuki in not knowing how else to explain it other than having a sense of inner peace beginning to resolve itself in him
"Let's see, you quite literally proved to the entire village and our Daimyo that you are quite literally the srongest to ever do it. Not to mention you showed up Lord Jiraiya's golden tickets on top of it. So I'm pretty sure that as of now, you quite literally have nothing to prove to anyone." Mizuki said to his former student who still held a look of joyful contentment about himself
"When you point it out like that, I guess your right. The only question is, where do I go from here? I mean other than getting the rest of the stuff I need to complete my powers. I really dunno where to go from here on out." Naruto wondered as to where his endgame would take him
"I'm sure you'll figure something out, Naruto. You're a kickass super-farmer with literal God powers. I'm sure that there's plenty of stuff for you to do in the world, even when you get your full strength going." Mizuki said back in knowing Naruto would be able to figure things out
"It just takes time like everything else…Besides, if anyone can figure how to make shit happen with nearly infinite power. It would be you." Mizuki further spoke
"Thanks, now if only my powers gave me the cheat code to figuring out my love life. That would be great." Naruto said in wishing his near-infinite array of powers could do that
"Good luck with that, Naruto. Because, unfortunately navigating love and relationships do not come with a guidebook. Otherwise, everyone would be crushing it in a relationship right now." Mizuki replied
"Well, hopefully Grandpa Dan and Granny Tsunade can give some advice. Because, I've got nothin'." Naruto said back
"Hey, there out there now after they and Orochimaru just showed up everyone on the dance floor. So maybe they can help out with that." Mizuki told them
"Great idea." Naruto said before teleporting over to the Slug Sannin and future 5th Hokage
"I will never get used to him being able to do that." Were Mizuki's thoughts as he continued to eat his lemon cake
"It is good cake though." Mizuki said to himself
From then on the party continued well into nightfall as the celebratory party continued, from Azula and Sasuke talking together and the latter trying not to stumble over himself in regards to crush/pen-pal who found him nonetheless charming. What with Gaara being over-the-hill excited too see Pakura again and in a surprsing show of strength lifted her off the ground in an overjoyed hug that was returend in kind by the Scorch Release user, to Kazushi and Lyoto meeting Orochimaru who was delighted to see her niece and nephew not only in good health, but also as prodigous shinobi.
Among so many other things such as Neji and Sakura exchanging notes on their differing taijutsu styles, and at latter dates setting up future spars with one another, to Naruto and Hanabi sharing a dance or two with one another as Tsunade watched on with everyone as Naruto semi-clumsily tried to keep up with his partner. As the overall spirit of the celebration of the genin now Chunin and Special Jonin alike was one that continued into the late hours of the night, whilst those involved continued enjoy the festivities until it was time to call it a night with those having separate duties to attend to; that had them leaving one-by-one.
Soon leaving a joy-filled Naruto whom soon had his dopplegangers assist in the cleaning up in the aftermath of the celebration, wherein with it being a swift process due to their shared super-speed; left Naruto to do some stargazing. Yet it was as he was doing so as his clones finished their chores that about an hour or two later into the night, that he was soon met with the phantasmal apparition of none other than Giratina themselves in their Origin form.
"Oh hey Mr. Giratina, what can I do for you?" Naruto asked the ruler of the Distortion World
"There is nothing that you need to do for me. Moreso that I wanted to congratulate you on crushing your lesser kin." Giratina answered back
"Why thank you, that's rather kind of you to do…Sorry, you couldn't come to the celebration in person. I don't know how summoning you would go quite yet." Naruto apologized in not being able to summon the immeasurably powerful legendary Pokemon
"It is of no concern to me. The knowledge that you have accomplished the dismantling of your adversaries is more than enough." Giratina said to their summoner
"As such in my congratulations of you, I also wanted to extend a well-wishes to you and all that may come of it…Although, I did not come bearing any gifts, I nonetheless will reaffirm to you that my power and counsel is here when and if you need it." Giratina told the inheiritor of their 'fathers' will
"And I appreciate that, I really do, Mr. Giratina. Plus, you don't need to give me anything, just having wonderful people like you here with me…That right there is more than enough." Naruto said as he reached out a hand to pat the massive apparition on the head
"You certainly are an unusual and yet nonetheless kind spirit. To have such rage and fury within you, and yet still have a heart has enduringly kind as this. It truly is something incredible." Giratina spoke in finding the duality of Naruto to be something incredible as far as mortals
"Thank you, I guess. All I know is that I'm just trying to be a halfway decent person to the end. So whatever I can do to make myself and people I care about happy, is what I'll do no matter what it takes." Naruto replied in seeing whatever the damage or cost he had to deal out to see his and anyone else's happiness was by all means fine
"And I have no doubt you will accomplish far and a way; more than any in your lifetime. That being said however, I do wonder what you will do once you have gained the full strength and totality of Arceus's power?...With strength of that magnitude, you will be able to make that paltry Sage look like a child; with what you will be able to accomplish." Giratina wondered as Naruto had a brief yet thoughtful look on his face at the thought
"Other than becoming even more a super-person than I already am. That's something for future-me to worry about. Something that is out of the hands of current-me to know or even figure out." Naruto said back with a shrug
"All I do know is that when and if I get there. That I'll figure all of that out one step at a time…To say that I have figured out what I'm going to do with the powers of a primordial god, is pretty fucking stupid. Since I can't predict the future, and to say that I know what I'll do with that firepower like I know shit…Well, I'd look like a total jackass with egg on my face; the moment I decide to do something totally different in the meantime." Naruto further spoke in simply knowing that when his full powers came in that he'd take it all as he'd had been, just one step in front of the other
"That is incredibly welcoming to hear from you, young one. Most would spout on about how they would do wondrous, pretentious, and downright petulantly boring things with godlike power. As though they have every single detail figured out…But now you, you are a creature of impulse and instinct like so many of my brethren." Giratina spoke in refreshing happiness of Naruto answer
"As such, it warms what constitutes as my heart to know you are the chosen inheiritor of my father's will…I look forward to what you will accomplish in the future." Giratina added in looking forward to all of what Naruto would do be it chaos or otherwise
"Thanks…by the way do you wanna look at the stars with me before I turn in? It is a nice night for this kind of stuff." Naruto offered to the apparition
"That sounds rather nice…While I cannot do so in full, the experience is still an enjoyable one. It has been ages since I've seen the stars." Giratina said as it curled its massive phantasmal form around Naruto
"Trust me, there's a reason why I came all the way out here to make a farmhouse…One of them is that you get to have a great view of the night sky, and everything above." Naruto replied as he and the ruler of the Distortion World continued to stargaze into the wee hours of the August morning
(The next day, August 14th, 998 S.E, Konoha, 1:45 Pm)
Meanwhile, in the day to follow Rasa was currently explaining to Yagura why the invasion had yet to happen as planned.
"For how much I have dedicated towards this plan of yours. All with the promise of those rotten bloodline-wielding mongrels heads on pikes by the days end…Yet you have failed to deliver, and for what?!" Yagura barked out with irritation and anger heavy on his otherwise youthful features
"That would be, because things have changed to the point that an invasion would be too costly. Especially with so many powerful figures in play. As such I have had to call it off for now…The risk of a lopsided defeat is too great." Rasa replied
"How was the risk that great?! We plundered and repaired weaponry from Uzushio's past when it sank months ago. My swordsman and my men were at the ready to strike alongside yours. On top of the fact that you had the power of the 6 tails that I granted you! Yet you waste it out of fear of loss, against tose that are lesser than the strength and arms I gifted you with?!" Questioned a fuming Yagura wondering how things were so dire that Rasa would reneg on their partnership
"So I expect an extremely good answer from you. Otherwise, I will show you firsthand that the enhancements and weapons that we have plundered are not solely for show." Yagura further spoke his rage being so much so that it turned his eyes into the bestial red and gold of his inner beast
"To put it simply, we were severely outmatched, Yagura. Between the Fire Daimyo and his brother alongside his forces being in Konoha. On top of Konoha's strongest being in full attendance and at full strength no less, which includes all 3 Sannin under 1 roof, the 4th Hokage, and his annoyingly powerful wife at his side. Tsunade Senju's children, the Uchiha Clan which has not only Wicked Eyes Fugaku himself, but also Shisui and Itachi Uchiha to boot. In addition to Orochimaru who wields from my understanding the fabled Rinnegan; which in addition is an entire can of worms to deal with. That there was also the addition to her personal guard, that added an additional layer to contend with." Rasa listed off
"With the icing on the cake being this Naruto Uzumaki who has shown himself to be of such caliber in strength. That I witnessed him with a single punch, eject a tailed beast from one of the 9 tails jinchuuriki. Among the rumors that his strength alone is enough to change the weather itself on a whim, and having battled the 4 tails to a stalemate on weeks without sleep…We would have put up a decent fight, yes, but with all of these factors in play we would have been slaughtered before the days end, and all of it made pointless because of the odds stacked against us." Rasa further reasoned to the irate Mizukage
While Rasa in any other given situation would have been more than confident enough to launch the invasion against Konoha and crush them, and as such deliver on his promise to Yagura in order to solidify things further between them and get away clean with having one over on Orochimaru herself. This idea was squashed and soundly shelved by the fact that with so many powerhouses in play in their own home turf no less, that the writing on the wall was more than clear for the Kazekage that even with Yagura's aid; that things would have ended in disaster.
"Take it from someone who has both seen war and been a Kage longer than you. If this had gone as intended, then not only would we have suffered an immeasurable defeat…Even with the weaponry you've supplied to us. But they would have with Orochimaru's help; discovered that we are in partnership with each other, and once that happens…I doubt that even you would be able to withstand the rebels, Orochimaru's forces, and that of Konoha itself bearing down on you." Rasa concluded
"...Very well, you do make a compelling point, Rasa. Even with everything at our disposal, we are nowhere near the strength to face so many enemies at once…Especially, not when we haven't finished recovering all that was lost from Uzushio to bolster ourselves." Yagura spoke in knowing that Rasa was right no matter which way they sliced it
"That being said, this does not detract from my aiding you in the rebellion whatsoever... I have absolutely no doubt that once I help you with those bloodline rebels; that with our two countries will be a unified force to dominate the rest of the villages." Rasa said back
"I couldn't agree more. Soon enough this world will be purged of those filthy mutants, and the shinobi world will know purity once more." Yagura spoke with a malicious grin of his own
"However, that still leaves the question of what to do about Orochimaru? You do know that it is only a matter of time before they find out about our alliance? Once that happens, I doubt she will let you continue your support of my cause." Yagura added knowing the Serpent Sannin wouldn't have it
"That is where I was thinking we could postpone and reinforce our invasion force; to be redirected towards Orochimaru. After all, the chances of our defeat will no doubt be lessened if we strike at Orochimaru. Especially where we will have less to worry about in terms of enemies and opposition; than here in Konoha." Rasa suggested
"That…That is actually a good idea and would get rid of if not weaken a meddlesome thorn in my side. Someone needs to take that snake off of its high horse for aiding those putrid mutants." Yagura spoke in agreement with the merit of the idea
"All I will need is a few months time to mobilize everything, and we will make sure that she is given my 'resignation' in full. I am tired of the likes of her looking down upon me, and it ends and ends swiftly!" Rasa told Yagura on the amount of time needed
"Granted, and I expect great results once you enact your plan." Yagura said to the Kazekage in question
"Don't worry you will get your results. In the meantime…I still have things on my…agenda to deal with." Rasa replied
"Very well, then. Until the time you strike at Orochimaru or any other updates of that nature are met. Then do not contact me again." Was Yagura's swift reply before the connection was cut-off
"You do know that this betrayal of yours will only create further disaster for yourself and your country? As nothing good can or will come of this." Saiken spoke
"And once again, I did not ask for your opinions. You are to do as I say and serve as my additional strength, and nothing more." Rasa groaned out as his body briefly bulged and warbled into the viscous white sludge that constituted his inner beast
"Remember, I may not be able to break free from my prison within you. But this seal does not restrict me from punishing you for your cruelties. Especially, from you being so cruel as to harm your own daughter." Saiken spoke as Rasa willed the left side of his body back to normal
"That thing isn't my daughter, all she's good for is being our villages' weapons. Even in that she failed her obvious purpose to me, when she couldn't even do what I made her for." Rasa said in pure unfettered disgust for his youngest daughter
"But no matter, because with Yagura's assistance and all that he has given to me. Gaara is now obsolete, and good riddance to the waste of flesh my wife died to give birth to." Rasa further spoke in dismissive ire of his perceived failure of a youngest child
"How you can be so cruel to your own children; is beyond me…I truly hope that your downfall is a painful one. Why anyone would see you as a leader, when your heart is this black and disgusting is beyond me." Saiken responded in equal if not greater disgust before sending one last spiteful burst of agony towards Rasa to the point his clothes began to shred and melt from the sudden and rapid mutation leaving only whitish pox-riddled growths on his back
"All that matters is that I get what is rightfully owed to me, and I will not have anyone get in the way of that…Especially not some…slug who wants to act as my conscience." Rasa gritted out before forcing his body back into his normal state
However, Rasa wasn't the only one dealing with their inner beast; given that in her hospital bed was a still recovering Mizore who was while healing more effectively was now dealing with the full totality of a completed Kurama who in contrast to their infuriated host was in immaculately great spirits at being made whole once more.
"I don't see why you are so furious, you were never that great to begin with. It is just that now everyone knows it." Kurama spoke their voice holding nothing but joy and mocking spite at their wounded jinchuuriki
"Shut up, shut up, SHUT UP! I am great, I'm greater than everyone, it's just Naruto robbed me of my glory, my chance and MINE, MINE alone to show it before everyone in the village! If it wasn't for him thinking he was better than me, and staying where he should belong then I would be a jonin by now and not HIM!" Mizore raved and ranted the flickering sparks of mania and rage evident in her eyes
"Once I get out of here, I'll show all of them why I was chosen to be better than all of them, and make the world as great as I am!" Mizore further spoke as Kurama could only laugh at the delusional mania that had consumed Mizore
"Yes, and I could have beaten my father when I was but a newborn…The level of mental gymnastics you will go through to justify whatever 'greatness' you ever had, is truly hilarious. Here I thought that Chomei had a sense of humor." Kurama said finding himself unable to stop laughing at the delusions of his remaining jinchuuriki
"Stop lying, all you do is lie, TRICK, and decieve me and everything I wa destined to be, when I supposed to be the Hokage already! I am great, I am superior to everyone here, stupid, STUPId and Naruto being that insufferable bastard he is, just had to ruin everything as normal. Why he can't understand that I'm meant be to better than everyone, when destiny chose me to be the one meant to bring world peace! Not someone who be a janitor at the fucking academy!" Mizore yelled once more as she threw her discarded lunch-tray in anger of her elder brother
"Why would I lie to you, you miserable insane wretch. I am not the one who was embarrassed to the point of being nearly crippled for life…You should remember that I am the one who can make or break whether or not your recovery goes as planned." Kurama reminded her in regards to it being thanks to his power that she wasn't a paraplegic for life
"And it is going to be thanks to you, and anything else I get once I'm out of this shitty hospital. That I'm going to crush him, his friends and everyone else who dares to doubt my greatness! Then everything will go back to normal whether they want it too or not! Just like it was meant to be from the start!" Mizore ranted in a mix of unhinged rage, mania, and determined joy at how one day everything would be as it should be
"Oh go right ahead, as I dare you to use my power to take down your brother. However, even with all 9 tails worth of my power. You will never be greater than Naruto. If that miserable pissant who used the powers of the Toads and 6 tails of my own to try and destroy Naruto couldn't do it. Then I doubt someone who is a miserable wreck can yield better results." Kurama said in mocking derision of Mizore
"Granted it will be incredibly entertaining to see you once again be obliterated. As a matter of fact, he might even get so tired of your being such a heinous cunt and superiority act; that he may just kill you and set me free at long last…So in that case go right ahead and try to go against him and his loved ones. Either way, I will get a front-row seat to your wonderfully entertaining humiliation." Kurama further spoke as Mizore in her manic rage through her I.V at the apparition of the 9 tails
"Shut up, Shut up, Shut up! He won't ever beat me again, no one will ever beat me again, do you hear me! I will win always again, I am the greatest Hokage that will ever be, and no one will rob me of that, NO ONE!" Mizore screeched as she proceeded to go into a fit of hysterical rage and tear her room to shreds to the point that orderlies had to be called in to restrain her for the 3rd time during her stay
"I really should thank, Naruto for doing this when I get the chance. Now i can get even more entertainment out of her than I ever could before." Kurama said with mirth in their voice as they watched Mizore be put in a straitjacket and restraints as she thrashed about screaming obscenities and delusions of her greatness
So with the Chunin Exams having now concluded, our intrepid protagonists having earned their promotions to Chunin and beyond; things seem to be going rather well as they celebrate their hard work at long last. But with Rasa shifting focus to soon launch his betrayal/invasion upon Otogakure, and a now increasingly insane Mizore plotting to destroy Naruto and his loved ones with the full power of Kurama, what awaits everyone as these new developments soon unfold? Well, stick around for the new installments of Naruto: The PokeSage to find out!
Alright, everyone I hope enjoyed the official conclusion of the Chunin exams arc, given that as it stands things are now completely shifted around for future shenanigans. Because, as it stands we only get crazier from here everybody, and as such thank y'all for continuing to stick around for everything that happens…truly y'all are some great people.
As such and without further adieu this is Pravus666 signing off until next time, wherein next chapter will have Ozai getting his own bit of satisfaction from Jiraiya; alongside the celebration of Dan becoming Hokage. So stay tuned for all of that good stuff.
Moves Learned: Aura Sphere, Jet Punch, Hydro Cannon, Night Shade, Earthquake, Precipice Blades, Inferno, Solar Blade, Wood Hammer. Cross-Chop.
Part 3 Theme Song: Themata by Karnivool
Random End Song: Cult of Personality by Living Colour
Now then onto some of the reviews from the previous chapter.
Kourtney Uzu Yato: I am so glad that you liked the battles that I did, because with how much I've been building to everything I wanted to make sure that everything was done as great as I could make it. Especially Naruto's fight with Toshiro, because with how much that's been a long time coming I wanted it to be as much of an epic smackdown as possible. And glad you enjoyed Naruto's fight with Sakura because, it just felt like it would legit happen given how with them acting like brother and sister; there fight was gonna be that level unhinged from the jump, as well as Sasuke's fight where my man had to be on point considering that if he got caught lacking for a moment, then Suyin could've definitely beaten him. Also, Tayuya and Kin are still around don't worry, its just that with the Chunin Exams being such a major thing, I had to shelve what's been going on in Oto to give it the attention it needs.
Michael Bourne: Oh don't worry, Sakura did get paid. As Hanabi did so after the party at Naruto's farmhouse ended for clarification that front. Since there was no way, I was gonna hoe Sakura like that when she did a job well done.
Skull Flame: The reason for Kurenai's alcoholism all goes back to her failure with one Yakumo Kurama, as the jealously of being shown up by her and her fuck-ups in trying to basically duck-tape her mistake in sealing away the Ido, lead to her being a drunken mess as is. Also, with Toshiro a vegetable one deaths door due to Kurama eating his soul last chapter and Mizore driven insane by her defeat...its gonna be something. Furthermore, in regards to my crossover if and when Ben gets the Butchers Nails out of Angron, I do plan on having them embrace their latent Psyker powers and become something of a battle Bard if you will as a potential idea. Also, I love your idea for Kharn and Ben's mini-rivalry as them boxing against Ben's various Alien forms just is too good of an idea, and I can definitely see the other Primarchs/Matriarchs using the idea as well. Not to mention that one of the other things I have planned that I wanna do is for Ben to be bros with Bjorn the Fell-handed and Luthor is I can swing it, and the Space Wolves and see what shenanigans come of that. Yeah, if the fall does happen its gonna be something else. Also, for Albedo and Ben's friendship/mentorship it was brought on when he actually helped Albedo regain his Galvan form in this timeline, and them realizing they both really like to make weapons, robots/mechas ,armor, and W.M.D's in general
Starravenwolf: And as you can see Suna and Kiri are gonna be getting it in the future, given that as for understandable reasons the Invasion is getting postponed and focused onto Otogakure due to the fact that with so many big players around; on top of Naruto being such a massive powerhouse that the invasion even with Yagura's support would've fallen flat, and as such couldn't happen. Also, dude I appreciate the joke as it had me laugh a bit not gonna lie regarding Hinata getting broken in half like a Kit-Kat bar, and in regards to Suyin...she's actually one of the cases where Jiraiya's bastards turned out the most well-adjusted...others not so much. Lastly, and as you can see Mizore has gone completely nutter-butters with Kurama in full effect.
