Naruto: Tornado of Souls
Mobilization
Blanket disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or RWBY
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
This time we see the Konoha forces gearing up. Here is chapter 10. Enjoy!
Last time:
The Yamanaka Residence
Ino was sitting with Inoichi and Ayano on the couch. Pyrrha and Hinata stopped in to check on her a before they went to see Blake, but they felt Ino needed some alone time with her parents. Ino had been terribly upset and was leaning in her Mother's embrace. She said in a sad tone, "Pyrrha-chan has the right idea. Naruto has loved Forehead for years and is really going to need some support to get through this."
Ayano ran her fingers through Ino's blonde hair. "I can't believe Mebuki and Kizashi are gone…at least there is a possibility that Sakura-chan is alive."
Inoichi said sadly, "It's always hard to let go. Princess, this is a shock to all of us. You know we'll be here for you. If by some miracle Sakura-chan is alive I promise you, we'll take her in as family."
"I don't want to believe it." said Ino depressed. "I just can't believe they are gone."
"It will take time to sink in Ino-chan." said Inoichi. "The grieving process takes time. Just don't bottle it up. Talk to your Mother and I…and talk to your friends too. We all need to pray Sakura-chan is alive for now. It's all we can do." 'I can't bear to see my little girl this way. When she finds out about the Uchiha going missing it will be even worse…'
…
Chapter 10
Anko and Blake's Apartment
Pyrrha gently knocked on Anko's door and the Snake Mistress soon answered. "Hey kiddies; are you here to see Blake-chan?"
"We wanted to make sure she's okay; sometimes it's good to have friends to talk to." said the redhead.
Anko ushered them in. They saw Blake was sitting at the dinner table listlessly. "Blake; how are you doing?" asked Pyrrha.
"I guess I'm okay." said Blake in a distant voice. "I've seen death before, but I still feel kind of hollow. Sakura wasn't my favorite person but finding out she's dead or missing was a real shock."
"Did you actually discover the bodies?" asked Hinata.
Blake shook her head. "I never set foot in the place. After I pounded on the door for a while, no one answered so I checked around the outside of the house. There was a window cracked open for ventilation and all that was coming come was the stench of blood and death. After that I went and found an ANBU to investigate. I sat outside and gave a report while the ANBU checked out the place. From what I could overhear it was bad…really bad. I've been home passing the time with Anko since I really didn't feel like getting out."
The girls sat and talked a while before Pyrrha and Hinata made the decision to go see Naruto. Blake simply wasn't up to it. "Tell Naruto-kun I said Hi." said the faunus girl as she showed Hinata and Pyrrha out.
"We'll do that." said Hinata. "You just take it easy."
…
Naruto's Apartment
When Hinata and Pyrrha arrived a shadow clone answered the door and let them in. "Boss is in the kitchen." was all the clone said before he locked the door and dispelled.
The girls peered into the kitchen and saw Naruto's eyes were closed with his right hand held out. A few seconds later a perfectly round, spiraling sphere of blue chakra came into being and Naruto opened his eyes. He simply said, "Hello Hinata-chan; Pyrrha-chan."
"What is that?" asked Pyrrha looking at the glowing sphere. "It's beautiful."
Naruto said with sense of accomplishment in his voice, "This is the Fourth Hokage's signature jutsu; the rasengan."
…
Dreamscape…
An odd pair of distinctively different voices was heard.
"It's not like I'm in favor of giving up my individuality you know…"
"I'm not either but needs must be met…"
"I'd think having a semi-split personality would end up being very awkward…"
"I agree and you are correct. Survival is paramount. I have much to accomplish in this world…"
"As do I...it seems the die is cast…"
"Well, if someone told me this would happen while I was alive, I would have told them they were insane."
"I feel the same. Shall we proceed together...?"
"Let us begin…"
Dreamscape End…
…
Konoha, the Hyūga Compound
That night, Hinata woke up with a start. She was sweating heavily. (Sigh) 'Sometimes I get flashes and they really startle me. They are going away with time. I hope they fade eventually.' Memories of various fights that both Cinder and Hinata fought filtered through her head as they slowly settled into uniform memories. "Inoichi-san said it would take some time. I wonder if Pyrrha or Blake have similar things in their subconscious minds?"
…
The Yamanaka Residence
Ino was up in the middle of the night drinking some water. The last few days had been living hell. 'It's all a blur to me. First Sakura-chan, then Kizashi and Mebuki…and then being hit the next day with the loss of Sasuke-kun and his sensei Kakashi…' "I don't know how much more I can take. Ever since these damned Chunin Exams started life has been one horrid thing after another." Ino looked out the window. 'I know my mental abilities aren't nearly as great as Daddy's are, but I can feel the tension and the unease in the air. It's like I feel that everyone and everything is pulled impossibly taut, and something has to give. Either something is going to spring back and release all that pressure or everything is going to break under the strain.' "I feel fear in the air like it's a solid object. I'm…afraid…"
There would be little rest for the Yamanaka Heiress that night…
…
ANBU Morgue
The next morning two medic nins were compiling their autopsy report on Kakashi's body. "There was a head injury, his heart was pierced by a sword and his sharingan eye was removed. There are no other injuries worth mentioning." said Kumadori. He was young in appearance with brown hair.
Hi female partner Oyone agreed. She brushed a few of her black bangs out of her face. "The blow to the back of his head was precise but the stab wound, and the posthumous removal of the eye were done sloppily."
Morino Ibiki came in. "Did we find out anything new?"
"By our estimates the blow to the head, the sword wound, and the eye removal were all done by separate people The sword wound was particularly messy. At least the eye was removed somewhat cleanly." intoned Oyone. "The wire that kept Kakashi's body bound show that someone with extreme experience was involved in tying him up."
"I still wonder why Kakashi was tied up just to execute him though." said Kumadori. "There is no evidence that they tried to interrogate him at all and no trace of interrogation drugs either."
Ibiki rubbed his chin. "We don't know who the second and third parties involved were but the person who knocked Kakashi out and tied him up was most likely ANBU Crow. They didn't get along. He must have completely blindsided Kakashi to have gotten the drop on him. Kakashi was way too fast and way too strong otherwise. Once you complete Kakashi's autopsy check the injuries to Crow. I have a sneaking suspicion whoever murdered Kakashi got rid of Crow as well to cover their trail."
If Kumadori and Oyone were surprised, they hid it well. "We'll get right on it when we're done here." said Oyone.
…
Dreamscape…
It sounded like one voice now.
"Actually, this isn't too bad; I feared all the memories would be lost…"
"I guess I'm one person just thinking to myself now even though I can carry on an internal monologue..."
"All the betrayal and hardships in both lives…"
"This partnership of necessity may actually give me the edge I need to protect those I hold dear to me this time…"
Dreamscape End…
…
Training Ground 52
It had been three days since the murder of the Haruno family and Sakura's disappearance and two days since it was announced that Kakashi was found dead, and Sasuke vanished. Jiraiya was doing his best to mobilize the Konoha forces and keep an eye on Naruto. Fortunately, Naruto was ready for some light training (doctor's orders be damned!) and was training with Hinata's group. Jiraiya gave a workout regimen to Kurenai to help outline Naruto's training.
Despite the fact he wasn't at full strength bodily Naruto was making rapid progression both physically and on the ninjutsu side. The group's morale was understandably low (Ino was devastated, and Naruto was depressed) but they were training hard. It seemed that Ino losing two people so dear to her was enough to galvanize Ino into finally training seriously. The Yamanaka Heiress was still miles behind the others (Naruto even in his weakened state could kick her ass) but she was really trying and doing better.
Naruto found that training with the girls was lots of fun too. He was amazed by their skill and made shadow clone cheering squads for support with tee shirts with each kunoichi's face on them. Unfortunately, the cheering squads took their jobs a bit too seriously and attacked each other in the name of Hinata-chan, Blake-chan and Pyrrha-chan. Anko thought it was hysterical watching the mob of blondes kick each other's asses, but Kurenai was not amused. It was hard for the genins to not notice the Konoha Ninja Forces mobilizing but they were told simply to continue training until the Chunin Exam Finals. They weren't told that the Chunin Exams were cancelled…yet.
…
"The feeling in the air is so heavy." said Ino as she ate more of Hinata's homemade food. Lunch was sedate and the genin were just relaxing and talking as they ate. "I still can't believe you can cook this well Hinata. I wish I could cook half this good."
Blake nodded as she ate her sushi. "I must find out what this is seasoned with; it's unbelievably good."
Pyrrha said quietly, "The mood is like we're getting ready for a war. Everyone is on needles and pins. I feel like we're out here training just to keep us out of trouble."
"I thought you liked to train Pyrrha-chan." said Naruto.
"I do but both Kurenai-sensei and Anko-sensei seem distracted." explained the redhead. "Jiraiya-sama or a shadow clone of him has been around whenever he can but it's obvious Hokage-sama has him doing something Naruto-kun. Otherwise, he would be supervising you personally."
Hinata nodded and set her drink down. "In the last couple of days, the movements of the Ninja Corps have increased a lot. I was told that they are upping the security for the Chunin Exam Finals, but I don't buy it. It seems like Konoha is mobilizing for war if you ask me. The differences are subtle but almost every ninja of chunin rank or higher are carrying full combat loads of kunai and shuriken."
"The guard patrols have doubled as well." said Naruto. "I know patrol routes pretty well and they aren't standard."
Ino cocked an eyebrow. "Why on earth would a genin be familiar with guard patrol routes Naruto?"
Naruto crossed his arms and answered haughtily, "Because being a prankster of my caliber in the Academy took long and careful planning Ino. You don't think I painted the Hokage Monument in broad daylight without carefully observing what the chunin on patrol were doing did you?"
Ino sweat dropped and Hinata giggled at the memory. Pyrrha almost spilled her drink. "What do you mean 'painted the Hokage Monument' Naruto-kun?" asked the redhead.
The orange loving ninja said, "My magnum opus of pranking was to decorate the Hokage Monument and-"
"Cause all sorts of trouble!" said Ino accusingly.
"-spread love, peace, joy and good fortune throughout the Village of Konoha." finished Naruto in a grandiose tone.
Blake started giggling quietly at first but then blew up into full grown laughter, "That is so…so you Naruto-kun!" she said between laughs.
Ino sweat dropped that even someone as serious as Blake was taking Naruto's side in this matter. "It's hopeless…" she lamented.
…
Uzumaki Naruto's Apartment
On the fourth day after his death was announced, Kakashi's funeral was to be held the following morning and Naruto wasn't sure he could face it the night before. As Jiraiya was out, he was having dinner with Hinata, Pyrrha and Blake who were very concerned for the blonde. They had invited Ino as well, but she felt more comfortable at home with her parents. "I'm sure the truth about Kakashi-sensei's death will come out eventually Naruto-kun." said Hinata kindly. "We need to keep training and become stronger for those we lost."
"Hinata is right Naruto-kun." said Pyrrha. "I'm sure your Sensei would want it that way."
Naruto sniffled. "I'm sorry I've been so glum, -ttebayo."
Blake gave one of her usual minimalist smiles. "It's okay Naruto-kun. It would be impossible not to be depressed. Tell you what, Anko nee-chan and I will stand over with you and Jiraiya-sama tomorrow during the funeral."
"That's a good idea Blake." said Pyrrha. "Since I'm going to be standing with the Yamanakas and Hinata will be with the Hyūgas you can give Naruto-kun some moral support."
Hinata nodded. "That is a good idea. After the funeral we'll all do something together and relax to keep your mind off things. How does that sound?"
Naruto smiled weakly and nodded. "You girls take such good care of me."
…
The Day of Kakashi's Funeral…
It had rained all morning, and many felt the heavens were openly crying for a fallen hero. Sarutobi Hiruzen thought to himself, 'Kakashi…you didn't deserve to die like you did…Dying is for old people like me, not the young who are still in their prime...'
When the top half of the casket was opened and Kakashi's face looked peaceful as if he was merely asleep. Many friends that were a part of Kakashi's life, both old and new were standing there to bid their final farewells. The Third Hokage gave a stirring speech about the many accomplishments Kakashi made during his life and the many sacrifices as well. Though many of the ninjas tried to remain stoic the sadness in the air was so heavy that many were crying…Naruto wasn't blubbering but the tears wouldn't stop as he laid flowers on the casket of his teacher. "Sensei; somehow, some way I'll make sure you didn't die in vain. I swear to you I'll find out what happened to you…" whispered Naruto in his black funeral clothes.
A long line of others including many of Kakashi's old classmates such as Kurenai, Asuma, Ebisu and Anko walked by and placed their own offerings on the grave. Not one of them passed without a quiet farewell and a tear shed.
Jiraiya reached inside his funeral robes and pulled out the new Icha Icha that he'd finished recently. It was a prerelease copy and he quietly, almost reverently placed it in the casket with one of his biggest fans. Jiraiya simply said, "Enjoy that one in the pure land Hatake Kakashi." He shed a single tear and went over to stand by Naruto, Blake and Anko.
Maito Gai came up last and said between tears and sobs, "My eternal rival; I will always; always treasure the friendship that we've shared over the years. (sob) It is for that reason that I will carve your honored name on the Memorial Stone. You shall never be forgotten my dear friend. These flowers (sob) are my final gift to you…." Gai broke down but somehow, he still retained his dignity. The tears of the Green Beast of Konoha had significance that touched many hearts deeply. There was nothing comical about Maito Gai stricken with grief…
A light sun shower came down which seemed fitting to all present. It seemed that the kami above had visited and granted Hatake Kakashi the peace he so rightfully deserved….
The Priest and Shrine Maidens went to close the top of the casket and place a tapestry with the Hatake Family Crest in place. Naruto forced himself to look through his burning tears as he watched the somber event unfold…
That is until Kakashi's arm shot up and stopped the casket from closing…
"W-W-WHAT THE FUCK?!" thought/said everyone present. Several people fainted.
Kakashi sat up, yawned, and stretched. He blinked a couple of times with his visible eye as he took in the scenery around him. Making a smacking noise with his lips; his eye settled on Blake. "Well, quite a crowd we have here." said the silver haired man with an eye smile. Everyone's eyes were big as saucers. He looked back at Blake and said, "Blake Belladonna, are you still wearing that ribbon?"
Blake's amber eyes got even bigger. "P-P-Professor Ozpin?"
Kakashi's eye smile didn't falter, and he said, "In a manner of speaking…I'm still Kakashi though if you know what I mean." Looking about again Kakashi/Ozpin said, "Wow, what a turnout! I feel so loved. Sorry, everybody but I'm afraid the news of my death is a bit premature."
The entire crowd face faulted from the oldest ninja to the youngest child.
Asuma said, "God damn it! We always said Kakashi would be late to his own funeral! I should have known!"
"You wouldn't believe the crazy dreams I was having*①!" said the seemingly undead silver haired Jonin. Then Kakashi watched with a sweat drop as the former mourners wandered away muttering and griping about Kakashi's epic tardiness.
Naruto face palmed and turned to the one whose advice he respected the most. "What the hell just happened Hokage Jiji?"
The Third Hokage let out a pained groan. "It seems that even death can't stop your sensei's incredibly bad timing. Let's just call it a day Naruto-kun." 'What a bloody waste of a eulogy. I wonder if he's been awake the whole damn time.'
Jiraiya just shrugged and followed his sensei Sarutobi and Naruto. He needed a drink…
…
The Hokage's Office
Yamanaka Inoichi came out of his mind walk and said, "With all due respect, this is getting old. I never thought I'd say this Hokage-sama but sometimes I really wish the dead would stay dead." Inoichi felt a chill up his spine and saw Pyrrha, Blake and particularly Hinata glaring daggers at him. "Ummm…no offense intended ladies."
Hinata said crossly, "So is it that old do-gooder Professor Ozpin or not Inoichi-san?"
Inoichi got a smile on his face and said, "That's quite a sour look Hinata. I'm guessing Cinder Fall didn't get along with him?"
The Byakugan Princess narrowed her eyes. "Professor Ozpin was the Headmaster of Beacon Academy and was a major roadblock in my quest for world domination." Both the Hokage and Inoichi looked at Hinata with raised eyebrows whereas Pyrrha and Blake just looked a bit irritated. Looking a bit self-conscious Hinata coughed and said, "Well, it's good for a young woman such as myself to have goals." …Everyone sweat dropped at that comment.
Inoichi said, "Well, setting world domination aside it seems that Hatake Kakashi has indeed experienced a soul merger with this Ozpin of Remnant." Blake and Pyrrha hi fived and Hinata looked sullen.
Watching the kunoichi's exchange with a bit of amusement, the Hokage said, "Tell us your findings then Inoichi. How did they merge?"
"Well, we already knew that completely posthumous soul mergers were possible because of Pyrrha-chan and her manner of revival." said Inoichi. "The merger was very much cooperative like Hyūga Hinata and Cinder Fall's. The major difference is Kakashi and Ozpin are like peas in a pod. They are each war veterans as well as experienced leaders and strategists. It's kind of frightening. They click together like puzzle pieces. There is still some individuality but it's more like that little voice we all have that is used as a mental sounding board. It wouldn't surprise me a bit if Kakashi's personality was largely unchanged unlike Hinata's which was altered a great deal."
"And it's great to have depth perception again!" said Kakashi opening both his new brown eye in place of the sharingan and his original gray eye.
"I see you've awakened Kakashi." said Inoichi. "How are you feeling?"
"I feel great for having woke up at my own funeral earlier today." Kakashi sat up and looked at Hinata. "So, Naruto's cute little stalker is the criminal mastermind Cinder Fall that engaged me in a life-or-death duel?"
Hinata blushed in embarrassment and retorted, "…And you're that coffee addicted old schoolteacher with a cane that reads smut in public?"
"Touché." said Kakashi/Ozpin. "For your information Jiraiya-sama's writings are for those of us who appreciate cultured, fine literature." He was holding onto his prerelease copy that was in the coffin with him as if the fate of the world depended upon it.
"That's right blasphemer! Icha Icha forever!" declared Blake while pointing at Hinata. The Hokage hid his smile at Blake's passionate declaration.
Pyrrha coughed politely and said, "I think I'd rather discuss world domination than Icha Icha Paradise."
Inoichi face faulted and then said, "Pyrrha-chan, though I'm inclined to agree with you let's just drop both subjects."
…
Soon enough the conversation changed to the events surrounding the murders and disappearances of Team 7. "So, they tried to kill Naruto and he came out on top in that bloodbath. I knew they were after Naruto. I'm proud of him." said Kakashi. "I have no idea about the murder of Sakura's parents or her disappearance. I can tell you about what happened to Sasuke and I though."
The Hokage had already invited Morino Ibiki in to hear the report on behalf of ANBU. Pyrrha and Hinata had been dismissed but Inoichi remained for the report and Blake was present in case any Sound ninjas were involved that she could identify. Ibiki had a pad of paper out and said, "Go ahead Kakashi. We aren't 100% sure but we believe ANBU Crow knocked you out and tied you up. All evidence points towards that."
Kakashi nodded. "And you are correct. I'd just finished a round of sparring with Sasuke when Crow handed each of us a bottle of water and he knocked me out while I was drinking mine. I never saw it coming. When I came to, I was tied up and three Oto ninjas were there along with Crow and Sasuke. Uchiha Sasuke is a traitor. He killed me with a sword, and I presume left willingly to Oto Village after that."
The room was silent for a few moments and Ibiki scribbled down some notes before he said, "Go on Kakashi. What exactly happened when you woke up?"
"The three Oto ninjas there were younger; probably in their teens." said Kakashi. "The first was a red-haired female that had a mouth on her like a sailor. She badmouthed everyone including her teammates. The second was a huge kid built like an Akimichi; he had a Mohawk. The last was a very strange kid with an additional head on his back that seemed asleep. I didn't get their names."
Ibiki turned to Blake. "Can you identify any of them?"
Blake nodded. "They are the other three members of the Sound Four. The Fourth was Kidōmaru that Naruto-kun killed. The girl is Tayuya that specializes in genjutsu. She carries a flute as a weapon but I'm not sure how it works. The big one is Jirōbō and all I really know about him is he's very strong. The last one you saw with two heads is Sakon and Ukon. I guess they are conjoined twins. I know they have some bloodline that allows them to separate somehow but it's rare. Sakon was the leader of the Sound Four so he must be the strongest." Blake paused and said, "They didn't have much to do with Tsuchi Kin and were really arrogant. They were all jonin level and have those Cursed Seals from Orochimaru and are his personal bodyguards. That's all I can think of aside of the fact they don't get along that well with each other."
Kakashi looked thoughtful. "Well, that's a pretty apt description. It seemed like the girl Tayuya was always arguing with the one called Jirōbō. This is what happened…"
…
After recounting the tale Kakashi shook his head. "I can only presume that Sasuke was willingly taken to Orochimaru after that. Being murdered by your own disciple and dying is a sobering experience."
Inoichi said, "With all due respect Kakashi; you seem to be taking this all rather well."
The silver haired jonin said, "Maybe it's because of the Ozpin part of me or maybe it was dying but somehow, I don't feel…guilty anymore. Obito; Rin and Minato-sensei…even my Father. Somehow, I feel like they've forgiven me for surviving. I feel like I have a new chance at life. I don't want to waste it. On the other hand, I'm rusty as hell compared to my ANBU days. I need to seriously get back into shape."
"Then welcome back Hatake Kakashi." said the Hokage. "You have been missed."
…
Uzumaki Naruto's Apartment
Naruto was sitting and eating with Jiraiya, "Well, I can't say I'm not happy that Kakashi-sensei is alive but between someone trying to kill me and having a zombie sensei my head is spinning."
Jiraiya chuckled. "We're ninja Naruto. Our lives being crazy is a given. On the positive side what I saw of your training tells me you are almost back in shape."
"It hasn't even been a week yet Jiraiya-sensei." said Naruto between bites.
"Like it or not that metabolism thanks to your tenant has you back in fighting trim faster than those doctors think is possible." said Jiraiya. "I've already got you scheduled to see a medic ninja tomorrow to get you cleared for training. I need you in top form for upcoming events after all."
"You mean like the war?" asked Naruto.
Jiraiya's eyes widened and he whispered, "Who told you?"
The blonde ninja chuckled. "You just did. I figured it out from the way the ninjas are patrolling and arming themselves. I'm guessing the Chunin Exams are off? I mean, half of the competitors are missing, injured or dead."
The Toad Sanin smiled. "Sometimes I forget just how cunning you are Uzumaki Naruto. I can't give you specifics, but the upcoming Chunin Exams are nothing but a sham now. "You and your fellow genin will be guarding the Village here at home. That's all you need to know. Your sworn duty is to protect Konoha, and I know that I can depend on you to do your best."
"You can count on me sensei." said the blonde prankster. "Besides, I still need to get back in shape to kick Neji's ass for Hinata-chan…not that she couldn't do it herself these days."
…
That evening Naruto was having dinner with the girls, (which was getting to be a habit) and they were looking over the beginner fuinjutsu books he had. Naruto was really fascinated by it and was practicing some of the basics in normal ink. Beside him was Pyyrha who had a knack for it herself. (Poor Hinata and Blake were staring at the fuinjutsu books with swirls in their eyes). Pyrrha's green eyes sparkled. "This is amazing Naruto-kun! With just these basic strokes we can turn an ordinary piece of parchment into a scroll that can store as much as a backpack. We're going to need to practice our calligraphy though."
Naruto nodded excitedly. "Your handwriting already looks good, but it looks like my clones and I have a lot of practice to do."
"Don't worry Naruto-kun." said the redhead. "Where there's a will there's a way."
…
Hokage's Office
The next morning the Third Hokage invited the Suna jonin Baki, sensei of the remaining Sand Siblings to his office. Baki bowed and said, "How may I be of service Hokage-sama? Your invitation was unexpected, but I'm honored to meet you in person."
Sarutobi said, "Please have a seat Baki; there are a couple of points I wish to discuss with you about the upcoming Chunin Exams. "It's a shame about the Kazekage's daughter Temari; I was looking forward to seeing her compete in the Chunin Exam Finals."
Baki let out a breath of relief as he sat down. 'I was afraid that the plan had been discovered.' "You are too kind Hokage-sama."
"Quite." said the Hokage as he pinned Baki with enough killing intent to freeze the man in place.
"H-hokage-S-sama…." choked out Baki as the God of Shinobi glared at him with wrath.
Sarutobi said in a conversational tone, "I want you to understand that I called you here to convey a message to the Kazekage Rasa-sama when you get back to Suna. It's come to my attention that our Suna allies are amassing troops near the Fire Country Border. It would be…how to put it…an unfortunate mistake to think that Konoha is not more than ready for a two-front war between Sound and hypothetically our allies in Suna. This is all hypothetical of course. You do understand my meaning don't you Baki? A seasoned military man such as yourself must understand the delicacies of international politics."
"Y-yes Hokage-sama…" wheezed out the Suna jonin.
"Wonderful." said the Third Hokage as he ratcheted up the pressure. "As a word of friendly advice since we are allies and all; I would advise you to take your two remaining charges and head back to Suna before the sun sets here in Konoha. With all the unfortunate accidents happening to our Chunin Exam competitors I fear for the safety of the Kazekage's no doubt beloved children. As a matter of fact, I would make haste and be back in Wind Country as soon as possible. Any questions Baki?"
"N-no s-sir…." croaked out Baki. 'I'm going to die at this rate!'
The killing intent stopped and Baki gasped for breath. Sarutobi Hiruzen had his back to the Suna jonin and was serenely looking out the window over his beloved Konoha. "I love my Village Baki and no doubt you love yours as well. Do make sure you relate my message to Rasa-sama. No doubt he would despair over the idea of the ruins of Suna Village being swallowed up by the desert sands and forgotten by time all because of a mistake involving Orochimaru."
"I w-will do just as you say Hokage-sama." said the shivering and perspiring Baki.
The Hokage replied, "Good; I'm so glad we had this little discussion. It's always good to keep the lines of communication open between allies. Now get out of my sight boy!"
Baki couldn't run away from the Hokage tower quickly enough. He was terrified of the God of Shinobi and with very good reason.
…
Suna Hotel Guest Quarters
The terribly depressed Kankuro and Gaara were both surprised when their sensei Baki returned white as a sheet and shivering. Baki told them, "The two of you shut up and pack up everything. We are going back to Suna immediately. The plan has been discovered and we cannot stay here in Konoha any longer. Hokage-sama told me we must be back across the Wind Country border as soon as possible. Now move!"
….
Baki led his two charges out of the village as soon as they bought supplies for their journey. Knowing the invasion plan hinged on the element of surprise, Baki felt Suna's participation in this undeclared war was over before it had even begun…
…
The Village of Konoha
Three days had passed since the Suna team left Konoha….and the last of the foreign Chunin Exam guests in Konoha Village had been sent on their way. It was now an open secret that Konoha was at war. No efforts were made to conceal the Konoha Ninja forces now. What few knew was ROOT had already been actively attacking Oto forces for a week and had inflicted horrendous losses on Orochimaru's unprepared forces.
The First Division under command of Jiraiya was already headed towards Oto and would be at the Rice Country Border soon. The genin and their jonin sensei were staying behind to defend Konoha while the bulk of the Konoha forces marched on Oto. It had been astonishing to the populace given how long they had been at peace and Uchiha Sasuke being officially declared as a B rank Missing Nin and a traitor on top of that was also a shock to the system.
One person that should have been dancing a jig that a war was going on was Shimura Danzo, Commander of ROOT. Unfortunately for him Sarutobi Hiruzen had enough of his old rival's shenanigans and whipped the warhawk into line both figuratively and literally….
Flashback….
The Hokage had a private training ground and Danzo was lying on the ground face down and beaten bloody by his old rival Sarutobi. Hiruzen was standing over the downed warhawk twirling his staff. Homura and Koharu were standing there looking absolutely flabbergasted at what they'd just witnessed. Hiruzen had invited Danzo to 'an old-fashioned spar' and proceeded to kick Danzo's ass hard enough that his ancestors felt it. Danzo was a wreck.
"When I told you to send out all your ROOT forces to attack Oto; it was an order, not a request." said the Hokage to his beaten foe. "You never did understand things without being beaten down Danzo, even back when Tobirama-sensei was training us. There is a reason I am Hokage and you never will be. Now, I want the third of your ROOT forces that are combat ready you've been holding in reserve as your personal army out there raining hell upon Oto as I commanded. Let me make one thing crystal clear to you Shimura: if you don't start obeying and doing as you're told I'm personally going to rip that abomination of an arm of yours off and dig that sharingan eye you stole out with a dull, rusty kunai. Did you truly think I haven't been watching you play games with Orochimaru? You live to serve Konoha and the Hokage and you will. Do you have any questions for me Shimura Danzo?"
"N-no Hokage-sama…" groaned the beaten Danzo. "I am sorry Hiruzen…I was wrong…"
Hiruzen turned to Koharu and Homura. "Do you two have any questions about the way things work? If you need to be educated like our old friend here, then by all means step forward."
Both shook their heads rapidly and Homura said, "There is no need Hokage-sama. We support you fully." Koharu nodded rapidly in agreement.
Hiruzen nodded and said, "Good; then you two busybodies can haul Danzo's sorry carcass down to the hospital for treatment and make yourselves useful for a change."
Flashback end…
Danzo was hurting but he was doing as he was told. The God of Shinobi was back…and on the warpath.
…
POSTSCRIPT:
*①: Yes, the dream sequences were Kakashi and Ozpin conversing.
See you next time. Blue out. 11/29/23