As Naruto stepped out of Hinata's room, the Hyuuga compound felt both familiar and foreign. The air was thick with tension, and the chaos of the day faded as he made his way toward the courtyard. The sunlight bathed the stone paths in orange, illuminating his determined expression. He could feel the weight of his decisions heavy on him, but tonight, he had to confront the man who had raised him.
Standing just outside, Minato waited, his expression a mix of concern and disappointment. Blue eyes met blue eyes, and to a passer by, the resemblance was unmistakable between father and son.
As Naruto approached, Minato pinched the bridge of his nose, glancing around at the quiet surroundings before landing his gaze on his son. "Well, Naruto," he began, sarcasm lacing his voice, "you've certainly made quite a scene."
Naruto clenched his fists, his anger simmering beneath the surface. "Good evening, Father "
The air crackled with tension as Konoha shinobi began to arrive, forming a perimeter around Minato. However, he raised a hand, signaling them to stand down. This was a family matter, after all.
"Why are you doing this?" Minato's voice was strained, anger creeping in. "Why are you bent on ruining our family name... ruining my legacy?"
Naruto's eyes narrowed. "Your legacy?" he shot back, incredulity etched on his face. "The legacy of war crimes you enabled? Of throwing people under the bus just to advance your own agenda? You manipulated people into sacrificing their lives for your ego!"
Minato was taken aback, his brow furrowing. "You're speaking nonsense, Naruto. Everything I did was for the good of the nation."
"Good of the nation?" Naruto repeated, incredulous. "You mean the same nation that doesn't give a damn about its people? That sacrifices its own to maintain power?"
Minato sighed, a mix of frustration and sadness flooding his features. "You're too young to understand. You're acting like a child, lashing out without thinking."
Naruto's anger flared. "I'm not a kid! You think I don't understand?
Minato's gaze softened momentarily, pain flickering across his face. "I always heard notions of your inadequacy growing up, all the time I put up with rumours spreading that you weren't cut out for any of this, too weak-willed."
His expression hardened as he continued. "And what do I get for trusting in you? You only set out to prove everyone right! Maybe I shouldn't have made you the jinchuriki. It seems I was wrong to think you could handle it. You're clearly not up to the task."
Naruto's heart sank, but he masked it with anger. "I never asked to be the jinchuriki! You chose that for me!" He stepped closer to Minato, doing little to hide his anger. "You've never believed in me, Dad. I was never enough for you, no matter how hard I tried!" He took a step forward, voice rising. "The only time I saw approval in your eyes was when I sat silent and did your bidding."
"You're just acting out for attention," Minato continued, his tone harsh. "Still behaving like a brat, focusing on trivial matters without seeing the bigger picture."
Naruto felt his frustration boiling over. "And what's your solution? To pretend everything is okay?"
Minato calmly replied him, stretching forth a hand in invitation. "I'm asking you to drop this... tantrum you've got going on and come back home, Naruto. I could work out something for you, scratch your name from our records. Even with everything that's happened, I'm still your father." His voice was gentle as he continued.
"Think about your mother, son. Would she want this from you?"
Minato gestured toward Hinata, who was watching from a distance, concern etched on her face. "You could be with your girlfriend again. With no need to hide it from anyone. I'll even retire you from active duty if that's what's bothering you so much. You can live in peace."
Naruto hesitated, the weight of Minato's words pulling at his resolve. Minato smiled inwardly at his son. For a moment, it looked like he had finally reached him, touching on what he suspected he held dearest. But then Naruto shook his head.
"How long would that peace last? Until the next war? The fifth, sixth, seventh great war? As long as people like you are in charge, this cycle of conflict will never end. I have history on my side, Father."
Minato's eyes narrowed, disappointment hardening his features. "What are you talking about?"
Naruto's voice grew stronger, fueled by conviction. "You'd rather I go back to being a puppet? You think you can just offer me a pardon and all will be well? Well I'll tell you what father, I'm going to dismantle this broken system you uphold. All these injustices around today, they're not causes, they're symptoms. Symptoms that all derive from a rotten core at the center of it all."
Minato scoffed, attempting to dismiss Naruto's passionate words. "What are you planning to do? All this big talk, what's your grand plan?"
Naruto's eyes blazed with determination. "I'm going to challenge the system, and every pillar that upholds it."
For a moment silence passed between them. Naruto's words hung in the air, adding to the tension between the pair.
Minato raised an eyebrow, his voice dangerously calm. "Are you threatening me, Naruto?"
Naruto didn't flinch, his gaze steady. He said nothing, allowing the silence to stretch between them, thick with unspoken words.
Minato's expression shifted, a mix of surprise and caution. "Do you understand the implications of threatening the Hokage in his own village?"
At that moment, the Konoha Anbu around them drew their weapons, circling Naruto with menacing intent. The atmosphere crackled with tension, each moment charged with the potential for violence.
Naruto stood firm, a defiant look in his eyes. "I know exactly what I'm doing."
The silence was deafening, and the weight of their confrontation hung heavily in the air, a storm brewing between father and son.
The air seemed to close in around them, each passing second amplifying the gravity of their standoff. Minato's calm demeanor only fueled Naruto's rage, his fists clenched tightly at his sides.
Minato sighed heavily, the sound echoing in the charged silence. "Naruto, I gave you a chance to understand, but it seems you're throwing it away for some delusional dream," he replied, stepping back with a weary resignation. "Maybe all that's left is to teach you lesson, my foolish son. You leave me no choice."
Before Naruto could respond, a group of ANBU guards emerged from the shadows, surrounding him like wolves closing in on their prey. He could see the flash of their masks, the glint of weapons at the ready, and the resolve in their eyes.
"I see..." he muttered, his body surging with adrenaline as he prepared for the inevitable clash.
With a burst of speed, Naruto launched himself into the fray, striking first at the nearest guard. The sound of fists colliding with flesh echoed in the compound as he engaged them one by one.
The guards fought with skill, their training evident in their movements, but Naruto was fueled by an urgency they could not match.
He shifted, dodging a kunai aimed at his throat. He retaliated with a swift kick that sent the guard sprawling into the wall, the impact resonating through the area.
The remaining ANBU surrounded him, but Naruto was in the zone, weaving in and out of their attacks with a fluid grace. He dispatched each guard with a combination of rapid punches and kicks, his instincts honed from years of training and battle.
[Rasenshuriken]
He threw the spinning disc of energy into a shinobi, engulfing him in a whirlwind of destruction. Each victory only fanned the flames of his anger, a burning desire to prove his strength not just to his father, but to himself.
With one final explosive Rasengan, he took down the last guard, sending the ANBU crashing to the ground. Panting, Naruto straightened, his chest heaving with exertion. He turned to Minato, who regarded him with a mix of respect and disappointment.
"You've grown strong, Naruto," Minato said, his voice carrying a hint of admiration. "But it seems that strength hasn't quite reached your brain."
Naruto's glare intensified as he stepped forward, fury lighting up his features. "Artillery...you wanted to swap her for artillery," he growled. "You were going to trade Hinata's life like it was some bargaining chip! Why should I ever trust you after that?"
Minato's expression hardened, his tone unwavering. "Once again, I was looking out for the nation. We have shinobi with the Byakugan, but no artillery. It was a logical decision."
"That's not logical!" Naruto shouted, his voice rising. "That's cruel! You're treating her like she's expendable, like all the other people you've sacrificed in this war!"
"They knew the risks that came with being soldiers. They were only carrying out their duties." Minato countered, stepping closer. His calmness only infuriated Naruto more. "Sometimes you have to make hard choices for the greater good. Even if it means losing a few pawns."
"If you mess with Hinata's life again, I swear I'll kill you," Naruto snarled, feeling the power swell within him, ready to unleash the full force of his abilities. He summoned a Rasengan into his palm, the spiraling energy glowing ominously in the dim light of the courtyard.
Minato took another step forward, a knowing smile creeping across his face. "Oh? I guess it's all part of your grand plan no? The whole tearing down the system thing." He stepped right in front of Naruto, his hands folded casually.
"Go ahead, then. Take the first step. Start with me."
Naruto's resolve wavered for a split second, uncertainty creeping into his heart. He wanted to believe he could do it—to strike against the man he had grown up with—but something held him back. Minato's confidence was suffocating.
"You don't even have the nerve," Minato mocked, watching Naruto try to maintain his defiant expression. "All this big talk and you still lack the conviction eh?"
Minato stared straight into Naruto's eyes, watching his confidence slowly chip away. "Do you have what it takes hidden somewhere in there son?" As much as he tried to maintain it, Naruto's gaze faltered under Minato's intensity.
"Because looking at you right now...I don't see it," Minato said in a low tone as the last of Naruto's bravado crumbled away.
Before Naruto could say another word, Hinata finally intervened. "Naruto, stop!" she cried, stepping forward, desperate to stop him before he could do anything.
"Hinata!" he gasped, his heart sinking at the sight of her fear. She stood between him and Minato, trembling as if caught in a storm of emotions.
"Please, get back Naruto," she pleaded, her voice breaking.
"Hinata, step aside." Naruto asked, but his voice lacked its usual conviction. He saw the uncertainty in her eyes, the way her expression shifted from concern to dread. The sight twisted his gut, and he felt the anger drain away, replaced by an overwhelming sorrow.
Minato smirked at the exchange. "Even your lover can see that you're talking nonsense. Just drop the act and come home, Naruto."
The words hit Naruto like a physical blow. The warmth of rage faded, replaced by a chilling realization. He looked at Hinata, really looked at her, and the weight of his actions crashed over him. She was scared of him—of what he had become.
"Hinata, I…" he started, but the words stuck in his throat. He couldn't find the strength to speak, to reassure her that he was still the same person she had believed in.
"I'm not moving from here..." She replied firmly, activating her twin lion fists even though at that moment she felt anything but confident. "Step away from him...please."
Suddenly, more Hyuuga shinobi arrived, their presence solidifying the tension in the compound. The momentum shifted, and Naruto felt cornered, helpless against the pressure mounting from all sides.
With a heavy heart, he flickered away, escaping into the shadows, leaving behind the painful sight of Hinata's worried gaze. He couldn't bear it any longer.
"Naruto!" Minato called after him, but Naruto didn't respond. He needed to think, to find a way out of this darkness.
As he vanished into the night, the weight of his choices loomed heavy, each step taking him further from the family he once fought to protect.
Sakura stood in her apartment's bedroom the tension in the air palpable. She watched Sasuke sit on the edge of the bed, his head hung low, fists clenched tightly in his lap. The news of Shisui's death had hit them hard, but for Sasuke, it felt like a personal blow.
"Sasuke," she began softly, stepping closer. "I know this is hard for you. We all cared about Shisui… but we can't let this consume us."
He looked up, his dark eyes filled with pain and anger. "You don't understand, Sakura. Shisui was everything to me. He was like a brother to me. And now…" His voice trailed off, the weight of his emotions evident.
Sakura sat beside him, placing a comforting hand on his back. "He wouldn't want you to do this, to let his death turn you into someone you're not."
"Maybe he would want me to get revenge!" Sasuke snapped, his voice rising. "Naruto killed him, and I swear I'll make him pay for it."
Sakura's heart raced at the intensity of his words. "Sasuke, please. Revenge isn't the answer. It won't bring Shisui back. It'll only lead you down a dark path."
He turned to face her, frustration etched on his face. "You don't get it. This isn't just about revenge; it's about justice. Naruto needs to pay for what he did. He can't just go around killing people without consequence!"
"Even if you succeed, what will that make you?" she pressed, desperate to reach him. "You'll become just like the people we're fighting against. You'll lose yourself in this quest for vengeance."
Sasuke's expression hardened, but Sakura could see the flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. "I can't just stand by and do nothing. I won't let Shisui's death be in vain."
Sakura took a deep breath, her heart aching for him. "I know you want to honor Shisui, but there are other ways to do that. You can be better than this. We can find a way to stop Naruto without sacrificing ourselves in the process."
He looked away, staring at the ground as if searching for answers in the floorboards. "What if I can't let it go? What if I need this… this anger to keep fighting?"
Sakura squeezed his shoulder gently. "You're stronger than your anger, Sasuke. You can channel that pain into something productive. We can work together. I'll help you."
After a long silence, he finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "I don't want to lose myself, Sakura. But the thought of Naruto… it makes me sick."
"Then let's figure out a way to confront him without losing ourselves. We can't let our emotions control us," she urged, determination in her voice.
Sasuke looked at her, and for the first time, she saw a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "You really believe we can do that?"
"I do," she replied, smiling softly. "We're in this together, no matter what. You're not alone in this fight."
He took a deep breath, his resolve hardening. "Good for you. I don't."
Sakura watched Sasuke, her heart heavy with grief.
They sat in silence for a moment, united in their grief but determined to forge a path forward. In that quiet space, surrounded by their shared pain, they found a flicker of hope amid the darkness.
Hinata sat on the edge of her bed, the dim light of the moon filtering through the curtains, casting soft shadows across the room. The quiet of the night wrapped around her like a blanket, but instead of comfort, it brought a profound sense of loneliness. Her mind was a tempest, swirling with thoughts of the recent events that had transpired, each memory tugging at her heartstrings, pulling her deeper into despair.
Naruto. The name echoed in her mind, a bittersweet reminder of the man she had once known, and the man he had become. She thought back to the moment he had stood before Minato, his resolve unwavering, the pain in his eyes cutting through her like a blade. He had fought for her, challenged his father for her sake. The thought sent a shiver down her spine. Was that love, or was it something darker?
Praise had flooded in since that day—whispers of admiration for her bravery in stopping Naruto from harming the Hokage. Yet, in her heart, Hinata felt no pride. All she could remember was the sadness that had washed over him as he fled, a sadness that mirrored her own. She was supposed to feel like a hero, but instead, she felt like a traitor, caught between two worlds.
As she stared at the floor, her thoughts turned to the recent assault on Konoha, the chaos, the violence. And then there was Shisui's death, sudden and cruel, a reminder of how fragile life could be. The fear crept in slowly at first, like a shadow stretching across her heart. Was everything they said about Naruto being a psycho murderer true? Could he really be capable of such darkness?
But as she grappled with that thought, another memory surfaced: his words during their standoff with Minato. He had been fighting for her, trying to save her from what he believed was injustice. He had always had that fierce sense of righteousness, a fire that burned bright within him. Did that not mean something? A small part of her still believed in him, still remembered the boy who had dreamed of bringing peace to the world.
Yet, the questions continued to haunt her. Did she do the right thing? What if she had run away with him? The weight of regret pressed heavily on her chest, each thought a chain binding her to her doubts.
And now, the artillery deal loomed over her like a storm cloud. Konoha might still go through with the plan, shipping her or her sister off when the time was right. The mere thought made her stomach churn. Yes, it might benefit the village in the long term, but at what cost? Was she okay with being the sacrifice?
Naruto had spoken of changing the very system that allowed such injustices to occur, but what if he was wrong? What if everything he was trying to tear down was a necessary part of their world? She wanted to believe in him, to trust in his vision, but the fear gnawed at her. Was he truly someone to be trusted with such a monumental task?
Hinata's heart twisted painfully as she bowed her head into her hands, fingers tangling in her hair. Conflicting thoughts tore her apart, each one louder than the last, drowning out any semblance of clarity. She felt like a ship adrift at sea, lost in the storm, with no land in sight.
"I need to talk to him," she whispered to herself, her voice trembling. She needed to understand, to reach him, to knock some sense into him. But how? How could she bridge the chasm that had formed between them? Would it even be the smart thing to do?
With those thoughts swirling endlessly in her mind, she felt the weight of the world upon her shoulders, a heavy mantle she wasn't sure she could bear. All she wanted was peace, for her village, for Naruto, for herself. But the path ahead seemed fraught with peril, and she feared what might lie at its end.
As the moon hung high in the night sky, Hinata remained lost in her thoughts, caught in a web of loyalty and love, unsure of which thread to follow.
The sun hung low over Konoha, casting long shadows across the Hokage's office as Minato sat behind his desk, flanked by his advisors. A palpable tension filled the room, broken only by the rustling of papers and the occasional cough from the advisors. They had just received the news of Gyotaru's death, and it weighed heavily on their minds.
"Minato," one of the advisors, a stern-looking man named Yamaguchi, spoke first, his voice low and filled with concern. "This is unacceptable. Naruto was able to slip in and kill an important man from Kumo right under our noses! We can't let this happen again."
"I agree," another advisor chimed in. "We need to enhance our security measures immediately. If he can bypass our defenses so easily, what's to stop him from attacking again?"
Minato nodded, his expression grave. "I understand your concerns. I'll hold a meeting with the Raikage as soon as possible. We must demand increased security on both sides. If Naruto is as powerful as he's shown, we cannot underestimate him."
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Minato's words sinking in. Finally, Danzo broke the silence, leaning forward in his seat, his eyes sharp. "I have a plan," he said, his tone businesslike. "We need to find Naruto, but we must also ensure we can contain him should we encounter him. I have suspicions on who might have information on his whereabouts."
Minato's brow furrowed. "Who has that kind of information?"
"Let's just say they have their own reasons for wanting Naruto found," Danzo replied cryptically, a hint of a smirk creeping onto his face. "But we need to move quickly. I can't promise their loyalty, but it's worth a try."
A third advisor, a younger man named Haruko, spoke up, visibly agitated. "And what if they betray us? We can't trust anyone right now. We need to handle this internally!"
"Calm down," Yamaguchi interjected, waving his hand dismissively. "If Danzo has connections, we might need to leverage that. Besides, we're running out of options. We can't afford to let Naruto continue this unchecked."
Minato raised a hand, urging them to settle down. "I'll take Danzo's lead on this for now. But I want to ensure we have a plan in place. If we encounter Naruto, we must be ready."
At that moment, the door to the office opened, and a lead researcher entered, carrying a stack of documents. "Excuse me, Hokage," he said, his voice slightly breathless. "I have news regarding our security measures. We've made a breakthrough in our work on the artillery given to us by Kumo."
"Go on," Minato said, intrigued.
The researcher stepped closer, spreading out the documents on the table. "We've managed to create a variation of it that could prove useful for our defensive capabilities. With the right adjustments, it could be enhanced to deal with our specific needs."
The advisors leaned forward, their interest piqued. "How much time do we need to deploy this?" Haruto asked.
"We estimate about two weeks for a full rollout," the researcher replied, confidence growing in his voice. "But we can have prototypes ready for field tests within days. This could give us a significant edge in our defenses."
"Excellent," Minato said, a sense of hope flickering in his chest. "We need all the advantages we can get. Let's prioritize this project. I want constant updates on its progress."
The researcher nodded vigorously. "Of course, Hokage. I'll assemble a team immediately."
"Thank you," Minato replied before turning back to his advisors. "We need to focus on securing Konoha and ensuring Naruto doesn't slip through our fingers again. With Danzo's information and this new artillery, we may have a fighting chance."
Danzo leaned back, a satisfied smirk on his face. "I've always believed in being prepared. Let's see how far we can go to bring Naruto back—one way or another."
Minato's resolve hardened at the mention of Naruto. He knew the stakes were high, and as the village's leader, it was his responsibility to protect Konoha from threats both internal and external. He was determined not to fail again.
As the meeting concluded, Minato glanced out of the window, his gaze piercing the horizon. The world was changing, and he had to adapt to ensure Konoha's survival. Whatever it took, he would do it—he had to.
The air inside Konoha's research facility hummed with anticipation as a team of engineers and shinobi prepared to demonstrate their latest invention—a firearm that combined traditional technology with the manipulation of chakra. The room buzzed with excitement, and Minato stood at the forefront, flanked by Danzo and Mei Terumi, the Mizukage.
"Thank you for inviting me to this demonstration, Minato," Mei said, her eyes gleaming with interest as she examined the sleek design of the rifles laid out on the table before them. "This weapon could change the tide of battle for all of us."
Minato smiled at her enthusiasm but quickly cleared his throat. "I'm glad you're pleased, but while these weapons show great promise, I have concerns about their effectiveness against jinchuriki. The progress Kiri has made with those chakra rods to control Yagura of the three tails is noteworthy. I believe your expertise could help us design ammunition that can be specifically used against jinchuriki."
Mei raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You want Kiri to contribute to your program? What exactly do you have in mind?"
Danzo leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Mei. "We need a way to counteract the power of jinchuriki. These rifles can be enhanced with chakra, but if we can create specialized rounds—ones that can get through the defenses of a jinchuriki—then we would have a tactical advantage."
A smile crept across Mei's face. "That's a bold proposal, and I like it. The idea of combining our research is enticing. I'll have my scientists start working on it immediately. But of course, I'll need some of these new rifles shipped back to Kiri with me for testing."
"Consider it done," Minato replied, noting the determination in her voice. "The potential of this partnership could prove invaluable for all of us."
As the discussion progressed, the engineers began the demonstration, loading the rifles and preparing to showcase their capabilities. Mei observed intently, her earlier confidence giving way to genuine interest as the first shots rang out, demonstrating the fusion of chakra and technology. The bullets whizzed through the air, exploding on impact with precise bursts of energy. Several kinds of ammunition were demonstrated with: Explosive-Incendiary rounds, electricity based rounds, and poisoned rounds, harnessing a specialized kind of water release chakra.
"Impressive," Mei remarked, clapping her hands together. "If we can refine the ammunition to target chakra systems too, we may have a game-changer on our hands."
"Exactly," Minato agreed, noting the sparks of creativity igniting in Mei's eyes. "We need to act fast. The situation is escalating, and we can't afford to fall behind."
Danzo interjected, "This partnership with Kiri will be crucial, especially with the threat posed by Naruto. If we are to deal with him effectively, we need the means to contain him, should we find him."
Minato's expression darkened at the mention of his son. "I'm aware, but… the thought of ordering his execution—"
"It's a necessary measure," Danzo insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Naruto is now a wildcard, and we cannot allow that kind of unpredictability to jeopardize our future."
Mei's expression shifted slightly, sensing the gravity of their discussion. "You believe you'll have to kill him?"
Minato hesitated, searching for the right words. "I don't want to think of my son as an enemy, but he's become something… dangerous. If there's any hope of stopping him, it may rest on our ability to neutralize that threat."
"I understand the need for caution," Mei said thoughtfully. "But if Naruto is truly a danger, wouldn't it be wiser to explore all possible avenues to contain him before resorting to such drastic measures?"
Danzo leaned back, crossing his arms. "Perhaps. But we must be prepared for anything. We can't let personal feelings cloud our judgment. We need a plan."
As the demonstration concluded, Mei turned to Minato and Danzo, her expression resolute. "I'll ensure that Kiri contributes to your weapon development. We're in this together, after all."
"Then let's make it count," Minato replied, his determination shining through the uncertainty in his heart.
With that, Mei turned and walked toward the exit, the camera crew trailing behind her, capturing every moment. As they left the facility, Minato couldn't help but roll his eyes at the spectacle. "Always in the spotlight," he muttered under his breath.
"Don't underestimate her," Danzo said, his gaze sharp. "Her partnership will be beneficial if we're to stop Naruto."
Minato nodded, but a lingering doubt remained. Would he truly be able to follow through on the difficult decisions that lay ahead? The weight of his responsibilities pressed heavily on him as he watched Mei disappear from view, a stark reminder of the challenges that awaited them all.
Fuu and Mei walked side by side through the long corridor of the Mizukage's residence. Fuu allowed herself a moment of satisfaction—Kiri and Suna had finally reached a ceasefire. It wasn't full peace, but it was a start.
"I must admit, I'm pleased with the progress we've made with Suna," Fuu said, glancing at Mei.
Mei gave her a small, knowing smile. "As am I. But there's still much more to do. I'll be heading to Konoha soon, on the Hokage's invitation."
Fuu raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Konoha? What's the occasion?"
Mei chuckled softly. "It seems the Hokage wants to discuss further cooperation between our nations. Possibly trade deals, maybe even military cooperation."
Fuu tilted her head. "Military cooperation? For what?"
"Isn't it obvious? To handle the threat of Naruto."
At the mention of Naruto, Fuu's expression faltered. Memories of their conversations flooded her mind—how she had tried to reason with him, tried to stop him from making himself a common enemy to unite the nations. But it seemed his plan had worked, despite his harsh methods. First Kiri and Suna, and now even Konoha was in the process of reaching an end to its hostilities with Kumo and Iwa.
'Naruto has done what I failed to do with the Akatsuki,' Fuu thought bitterly. 'What if I had convinced them to be more aggressive? Could we have avoided this entire war?'
Her thoughts were interrupted by Mei's voice.
"I've always admired Konoha," Mei said with a casual shrug. "I'm pleased we're allies rather than enemies now."
Fuu nodded, although her mind was elsewhere. She was about to respond when Mei continued, her tone shifting slightly.
"Suna, though… I have different plans for Suna."
Fuu's brow furrowed. "Plans? What kind of plans? Are we talking about reopening trade or...?"
Mei smiled, a cold edge to it this time. "Oh no, not trade. I'm going to finish what I started with Suna."
Fuu's heart skipped a beat. "Finish what you started?" she repeated, unsure if she wanted to hear the answer.
"Yes," Mei said, her tone calm but laced with chilling intent. "After Naruto is dealt with, I plan to conquer the rest of the country. I'm sure I can convince other nations to join me."
Fuu's blood ran cold. "But… Suna is our ally now. We've just reached a ceasefire."
Mei chuckled darkly, as though Fuu's naivety amused her. "Oh, Fuu… you're so young. Yes, technically, we're at peace. But it's more of a cold war, really."
Fuu blinked, horrified. "You're saying the peace is temporary?"
"Of course it is," Mei said matter-of-factly. "Do you honestly believe every Kage will forget their grievances overnight? Once Naruto is no longer a credible threat, they'll all start making moves to secure power for their nations."
Fuu clenched her fists. "But… we've crippled Suna enough already. Why go further?"
Mei glanced at her, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Because it's weak. And weak nations fall. I've already crippled it, as you said, and it's time to finish the job. After all, a strong Kiri requires strong leadership, and eliminating Suna will make us stronger."
Fuu felt sick. Mei sounded like an imperialist, ready to ravage a nation that had barely begun to rebuild. She swallowed her disgust and forced a weak smile, trying to hide her dismay. "I… I see where you're coming from."
Mei's eyes gleamed with satisfaction, clearly pleased by Fuu's reaction. "I'm glad you understand," she said, her voice softer but no less dangerous. "Which is why you won't be accompanying me to Konoha."
Fuu blinked, confused. "I won't?"
"No," Mei said, her tone casual again. "I've decided to leave you in Kiri. You'll be attached to the port administration."
Fuu's confusion deepened. "The port administration? Are you reassigning me to the navy?"
Mei laughed lightly, shaking her head. "Oh no, Fuu. Don't get ahead of yourself. I'm attaching you to the council in charge of monitoring sea trade."
"Sea trade?" Fuu echoed, feeling a sinking sensation in her chest. "Why?"
Mei stopped walking and turned to face her fully. "Because, Fuu, you're clearly not cut out to be a soldier. Perhaps a more civilian life will suit you."
Fuu stared at her, unable to mask the sadness in her eyes. Mei's cold assessment stung more than she'd expected. "I… I thought I was doing well."
Mei sighed, as if dealing with a child. "You have potential, Fuu. But you lack the strength and conviction needed for war. In the future, when I've secured a bright future for Kiri, you can be Mizukage. Perhaps then you can deal more with diplomacy and internal rulership. But right now, you need to prove yourself."
Fuu's shoulders slumped. "I understand."
Mei smiled, though there was little warmth in it. "Good. Consider this stint in the port administration as your test. Show me your skills, your zeal."
"I'll do my best," Fuu said quietly.
Mei turned and began walking ahead again, her pace unhurried. "Remember, Fuu, if you want to be Mizukage, you have to work for it. Whether on the battlefield or in the office, it doesn't matter. The goal is all that matters."
Fuu watched Mei walk ahead, her mind drifting to Naruto. He had told her something similar once, though in a much different context. The end justifies the means, he had said.
Fuu's heart ached at the thought. Naruto had gotten what he wanted—he'd forced the nations to unite, though through fear and violence. And now here she was, floundering under Mei's cold judgment.
'Maybe Naruto is right,' Fuu thought bitterly. 'Maybe the only way to achieve your goals is to take action, regardless of what others think.'
She looked down at her hands, clenched tightly by her sides. She wanted to be Mizukage. She wanted to fight for peace. But could she achieve it the way she was now?
As Mei disappeared into the corridor's shadows, Fuu was left standing alone, her thoughts spinning and her resolve hardening.
The sun hung high over Konoha as Hinata Hyuuga walked with purpose, her heart racing as she approached the Konoha Police Station. A sense of unease settled in her stomach, a nagging feeling that something was amiss. She had received a message earlier that day, summoning her to the station, but the reason was unclear. As she entered the building, the sterile scent of polished floors and muted voices filled the air, making her feel small and vulnerable.
"Can I help you?" the receptionist asked, glancing up from her paperwork.
"Yes, I'm here to see Lord Danzo Shimura," Hinata replied, her voice steady despite her anxiety.
"Right this way," the receptionist said, gesturing for her to follow.
As they walked down the corridor, Hinata's mind raced with questions. Why did they need her? What could Danzo possibly want to discuss? She tried to shake off the ominous feeling that clung to her like a shadow.
The receptionist led her to a door marked "Interrogation Room." With a quick nod, she opened it, revealing a dimly lit space filled with an air of tension. Hinata stepped inside, her breath catching in her throat at the sight before her.
Danzo stood at the center of the room, flanked by a few Uchiha police officers, including Sasuke, who stood with a serious expression. Ino Yamanaka was there too, alongside her father, Inoijin. The atmosphere was charged, and her gaze fell on the figure strapped to the interrogation apparatus—an unfamiliar shinobi with terror etched across his features.
"What's going on?" Hinata asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she took in the scene.
Danzo turned to her, his expression inscrutable. "Thank you for coming, Hinata. We believe this man possesses information that could lead us to Naruto."
Hinata's heart dropped, a cold chill washing over her. "What do you mean? What do you suspect him of?"
Inoijin stepped forward, his demeanor serious. "We're not entirely sure yet, but we intend to find out. Your insights could be valuable."
"I don't understand how I can help," she replied, glancing nervously at the trembling man in the apparatus.
"Just by being here," Danzo said, his tone flat. "Your presence may provoke a reaction."
Before she could process his words, Inoijin approached the captive, trying to gauge his fear. Sasuke's eyes flicked between Hinata and the man, and in an instant, he stepped closer to her.
As she raised her gaze to meet his, Sasuke's dojutsu spun, and Hinata felt a sudden heaviness wash over her. Sasuke had placed her under a Sharingan genjutsu, and the world faded to black.
"Good," Danzo said, nodding with satisfaction. "Sasuke, well done. Now we can proceed."
Sasuke's expression was conflicted, worry creeping into his features. "Are you sure about this, Danzo? She's my friend."
"Rest assured," Danzo replied coolly. "This is merely a part of our investigation. She will not be harmed as long as she cooperates."
Ino stepped forward, a determined look in her eyes. "I'll enter her mind now. We're looking for anything that could lead us back to the nine tails jinchuriki."
Hinata lay motionless in her restraints, oblivious to what was happening around her.
"Be careful," Inoijin advised as he guided his daughter through the process. "Look for any relevant memories, but don't overwhelm her."
Danzo watched intently, his expression a mask of patience as he waited for a breakthrough. "If there's something useful in her mind, we must act quickly."
Ino felt a rush of memories flood her mind as she tapped into Hinata's memories—images of Naruto, laughter, battles, moments of despair. But amongst them, she felt the fear and urgency rising in her chest.
"I'm going deeper," Ino said softly, "She was very close to Naruto, I'm confident we can find something here."
"Focus," Inoijin prompted, encouraging her to explore deeper.
As Ino continued to sift through her memories, the interrogation room was silent, tension thick in the air as Danzo and Sasuke awaited Ino's findings.
"We will find a way," Danzo said firmly, his eyes narrowed. "We must ensure Naruto cannot escape us again."
"Right," Sasuke murmured, anxiety gnawing at him as he glanced at Hinata.
She lay there, vulnerable, and for a moment, he felt a flicker of guilt. But Danzo's words echoed in his mind: this was for the greater good.
The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, the stakes high as they pressed deeper into Hinata's mind, each second ticking away like a countdown. The outcome of their mission rested on the edge of a blade, and Hinata was caught in the center of it all.
Minato stood outside the imposing building in Kirigakure, his brow furrowing at the chaotic scene before him. A throng of reporters crowded the entrance, their cameras flashing like a strobe light, illuminating the gloomy atmosphere of the Hidden Mist Village. He could hear their voices rising above the din, bombarding him with questions about the peace talks.
"Hokage-sama! What do you think of the humiliating attack on your capital?" one shouted, his lens trained on the Hokage's face.
"Are you worried about the Nine-Tails jinchuriki?" another added, pushing closer.
Minato clenched his jaw, irritation bubbling beneath the surface. Shikaku, his ever-calm advisor, nudged him gently. "Just ignore them, Minato. It's all for show. You know how Mei is."
Taking a deep breath, Minato nodded, forcing himself to look away from the reporters and step through the ornate doors. As he entered the building, the noise faded, replaced by a hushed atmosphere that felt oddly welcoming. The interior was lush and well-furnished, an opulent contrast to the harshness outside.
"Seems like Kiri knows how to impress," Minato muttered as he took in the lavish décor.
As they made their way through the halls, the group approached a large conference room. Inside, Mei Terumi sat confidently at the head of a long table, flanked by her right-hand man, Chojuro, and several other officials.
Minato couldn't help but feel a flicker of relief upon entering the room; at least there were no cameras here. Mei's smile was bright, her demeanor as bold as ever.
"Welcome, welcome!" she exclaimed, gesturing for them to sit. "I'm so glad you could all make it. We have much to discuss, especially regarding our recent advancements."
As they settled into their seats, Mei leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Let's talk about Kiri's progress in rifle technology. It's quite impressive, if I do say so myself."
Minato nodded, his expression serious. "I'm eager to hear more about your developments, especially in the context of the threats we face."
Mei smirked, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes. "Well, I thought it was time for a demonstration." She waved her hand, signaling to Yagura, who stood awkwardly at the side of the room, his demeanor tense.
Minato's eyes narrowed as he took in the sight of Yagura more closely. The strange rods protruding from his back and arms caught his attention, causing unease to creep into his gut.
A Kiri shinobi approached, placing a long, dark rod on a platter in front of the gathering. A scientist from Mei's side rose, ready to engage the audience
"What you are seeing here is-"
"I'm sorry, did I ask you to speak on my behalf?" Mei cut him off, her tone light yet authoritative.
"A-a-apologies... Mizukage-sama," the man meekly stuttered, settling back down.
"This," Mei began, her voice smooth as silk, "is a significant part of our new technology."
"These chakra rods embedded in Yagura's skin interfere with chakra flow, acting as both a conductor and insulator. They can cut off chakra in a network and also introduce external chakra into a system."
Minato's heart sank further as he realized the implications. "You're controlling him?"
"Exactly! Watch and learn," she replied, a triumphant grin on her face.
As she beckoned the shinobi forward, Yagura tensed up, his muscles coiling like a spring. "Hold still, Yagura," Mei commanded as a group of mist shinobi restrained him with chains.
Suddenly, the rods on Yagura's skin began to glow ominously, and he writhed in pain. Dark red and grey chakra flickered around him, hinting at the power of the Three Tails within.
Minato felt a chill run down his spine as he watched, horrified. Mei explained, "We've managed to control the Three Tails inside Yagura through these rods. They allow us to trigger and suppress his tailed beast power remotely."
Yagura let out a roar of agony, and Minato's fists clenched involuntarily.
"Now," Mei said, clapping her hands together as if reveling in the chaos. "A demonstration! Watch closely."
A shinobi stepped forward, aiming a rifle at Yagura. Minato's breath caught in his throat. "This is madness!"
But Mei merely smiled, clearly relishing the moment. "Let's see how effective our new technology is."
The rifle fired, the bullet piercing the air. But to Minato's shock, it failed to penetrate Yagura's hardened skin. Yagura let out another roar, his agony palpable.
"Interesting," Mei mused, tapping her chin. "Let's try that again with the newer stuff."
A second rifle was handed to the shinobi. He took aim and fired again. This time, the bullet penetrated, striking Yagura in the stomach.
"Shit!" Minato shouted, unable to contain himself.
Yagura howled in pain as blood poured from the wound, and Mei ordered the Three Tails to be suppressed. The rods glowed brighter, and Yagura began to revert back to his human form, gasping for breath.
"That was just a demonstration of our breakthrough." Mei announced proudly, picking up a bullet for the room to see. "These bullets will slice through any defense, as long as it's built with chakra."
Minato felt a wave of aversion and curiosity rise within him, and he couldn't help but feel that they were playing with fire. "This is impressive Mei, but weren't there other ways to demonstrate it?"
"Oh, come now, Minato," Mei replied, waving a dismissive hand. "You should know by now that power is the only thing that matters in this world. Besides, we're on the same side now. This technology will keep the Nine-Tails jinchuriki at bay, won't it?"
Minato glanced at Danzo, who was observing silently, and then back at Mei. "You must have great investment in this project's success if you're willing to share this technology with Konoha."
Mei leaned back, her expression shifting to one of cunning. "Of course... But first, I want to make sure you fully understand the extent of our capabilities."
As she continued to speak, Minato's mind raced with thoughts of Naruto and the imminent threat he posed. If Kiri could supply them with this new ammunition, they would have an edge going forward.
But at what cost? Minato couldn't shake the feeling of dread that settled over him.
Finally, Mei leaned forward again, her eyes glinting with ambition. "Let's talk business, shall we?"
Minato sighed, steeling himself for what was to come. He had been dreading this part of the discussion, but it was clear that with Kiri's newfound power, they had a better chance of stopping Naruto—if only they could reach an agreement before it was too late.
Naruto sat cross-legged on the floor of the living room. He closed his eyes, attempting to meditate, but the weight of recent events pulled him deeper into his thoughts.
Images of his confrontation with Minato flooded his mind, an unwanted tide that twisted his stomach into knots.How could he not take me seriously?The sting of his father's words echoed through his thoughts, leaving a bitter taste. The way Minato had tested him, pushing him to his limits, felt like a mockery.Did he know I would falter?
He remembered the moment when he had been ready to fight back, but instead, he had faltered. The anger boiled within him, fueled by the memory of his father's dismissive smirk. It ignited a fire in his heart, a burning desire to prove himself not just to Minato but to everyone who doubted him.I won't let anyone see me as weak!
Suddenly, the memory shifted. He recalled the moment he had held Hinata in his arms, the warmth of her presence overwhelming him with joy. The way she had looked at him, the feel of her breath against his skin, and the electric rush he had felt when their lips met—all of it had been so pure, so real. In that moment, he had wanted nothing more than to take her away from all the chaos, to find a place where they could be free from the burdens of the shinobi world.
But then Minato came.
The intrusion of his father had shattered that idyllic moment, replacing joy with frustration. And at the end of the day, the gap between him and Hinata had grown. How could fate be so cruel? Just as he had felt a flicker of hope for happiness, reality crashed back in. The anger swelled again, mixing with the unresolved feelings of inadequacy.
As he stewed in his emotions, something on the television caught his attention. The screen flickered to life, and there she was—Mizukage Mei Terumi. Her confident demeanor and easy smile contrasted sharply with the turmoil in his heart. The news anchor reported on her return from a diplomatic visit to Konoha, discussing the implications of her talks regarding village defense.
Naruto couldn't help but scoff.What could she possibly be negotiating? More war?The sight of her smug expression fueled his ire. Gaara had told him about the Mizukage, the ruthlessness she hid under that warm expression of hers. She was just as rotten as the rest, despite the image of kindness and openness she upheld.
Typical of Kiri, always scheming, always ready for conflict.
Kurama's voice echoed in his mind, grounding him."You set a goal, Naruto. Don't lose sight of it. Remember what we talked about?"
The urgency of Kurama's words sliced through the haze of frustration. The anger he felt toward Mei shifted, morphing into a new resolve. The memories of Minato's mocking smile returned, igniting a new fire within him.
With renewed determination, he leaned forward, the weight of his decision settling upon him. 'It's time to start fixing everything.' Watching Mei address the group of journalists, he felt an instinctive pull to action. The thought of confronting her ignited a thrill of excitement mixed with a hint of fear. He didn't know what he would say or do, but he knew he had to act.
"Kurama," he said, voice steady and resolute. "I'm going after Mei."
"About time,"Kurama replied, a hint of approval in his tone. "Just remember what's at stake."
Naruto nodded, understanding the gravity of his choice. He was not just fighting against Mei; he was fighting for something greater—the chance for peace, the chance to protect those he loved, and to prove himself to everyone, including Minato.
With one last look at the flickering screen, he turned away, ready to forge his path. "I'll show you just how motivated I am, Father."
And with that, Naruto kept watching the broadcast, watching the smiling face of the Mizukage adorn the screen as his heart pounded with a fierce determination.