Hello all Storm here with a new chapter! As we'll be continuing where the last chapter left off, with the Council discussing what happened in the Undercity. Along with Obito meeting with the Kage and continuing his own plans to establish his control over not only the Lanes, but the Anbu as well. So, without further ado.
I own nothing
"Is there any reason this meeting couldn't have waited until morning?" Jiraiya asked, feeling tired and annoyed at being woken up in the middle of the night for a council meeting.
"No. What's happened couldn't have waited until morning. There's been an incident in the Undercity." Hiruzen revealed, causing the rest of the Councilors to lose any tiredness, now giving their full attention.
"What's happened? Did the Anbu find those responsible for the explosion?" Questioned Hiashi.
"Or are those criminals still foolish enough to continue hiding them?" Danzō said with a scowl, hoping they'll finally have the excuse to wipe them all out.
"I've been informed that Commander Uzuki received a message from the Undercity that they did find the culprit responsible, she took a squad of Anbu down to arrest them. However, upon their arrival…they were attacked and killed." Sarutobi replied before waiting for the inevitable response to such news.
"What?!"
"Who is responsible for this attack?!"
"They've gone too far now!"
"We can't allow such a blatant attack to go unpunished."
"We must mobilize the Anbu and erase the criminal scum immediately!"
"Will you all just shut up!" Tsunade shouted over everyone, giving them all an annoyed glare, silencing the other Councilors.
"Thank you, Tsunade." Said Hiruzen, nodding to her, before Danzō stood up scowling in pure rage.
"The vermin have gone too far now! Not only have they attacked decorated officers but have killed the Anbu Commander! They should've all been wiped out when they first dared to rebel against Konoha! Now look at what's happened! Hatake must have been behind this! He leads those criminals; he was likely training them all in secret to use Ninjutsu! Trying to start another uprising!" Danzō said, believing Kakashi was behind this, having wanted him dead or imprisoned like every other Ninjutsu-user in the Undercity.
He only relented to letting him live because, even if he was little more than a rabid dog, he was a dog they held the leash of to keep the rest of the strays in line. Now Danzō sees what a mistake that was, that they should've stomped them all out years ago. A mistake he refused to let happen again.
"Perhaps instead throwing baseless accusations, we wait for Headmaster Sarutobi to finish telling us of what happened. There is more you wished to say, correct Professor." Said Amado, turning to the Headmaster, doubting a meeting would've been called just for this, if it was then the Anbu would already be mobilized.
"Yes, there is. I've also been informed that Kakashi Hatake is also dead. Him as well as those who were responsible for the explosion." Hiruzen said, making the rest of the Council pause for a moment at the revelation.
"We are sure of this, Headmaster? The ones truly responsible are dead?" Inoichi asked since there's really no way of knowing the truth if they're dead.
"I'm certain of it. It seems one of the Anbu that accompanied Commander Uzuki had previously been informed of who the culprits were and where to find them. They were being sheltered by Kakashi, who refused to give them up, but someone did. Wishing to no longer have the Undercity continue being raided by Anbu. Though it ended in the Anbu being attacked and killed, the survivor had been prepared. Luring Kakashi and the culprits to an abandoned cannery, trapping them inside and detonating explosives planted within." Hiruzen explained.
"And this survivor? Who are they? Where are they now?" Questioned Shibi, feeling rather skeptical of the story.
"Yes, who do we have to thank for finally ridding us of two problems." Danzō said, feeling pleased that Hatake and his allies were now dead, serving as another reminder to the criminal scum of what happens when they challenge Konoha's might.
"His name is Mizuki, a relatively new member of Anbu but has proven himself capable. Having lead several of the raids in the Undercity to find the culprits. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to locate him, I've already sent teams to try and find him. Though it is likely that he could have been injured and/or went into hiding after eliminating Kakashi and the culprits." Sarutobi replied, unsure himself of where Mizuki is, only that his body wasn't among those of the Anbu who were killed nor were his remains located at the destroyed cannery.
"So all we really have is word of mouth from those who weren't present at the time. And the only one who was there has now suddenly disappeared. Sounds pretty convenient." Stated Jiraiya with his own doubts of what happened when the only one that could give them the truth is missing.
"Which is why there are Anbu out searching for him or, in the event he was found by someone else, his body. Right now we have a team of dead Anbu, another building being blown up filled with bodies burned beyond recognition and Kakashi nowhere in sight. Until we locate Mizuki then it would be best to operate under the belief that the ones responsible for the destroyed building in the Academy District are now dead." Said Hiruzen, preferring not to have any further bloodshed and destruction than what has already happened.
"And what of the rest of the vermin?" Demanded Danzō, still preferring if they killed them all and be done with it.
"Until we locate Mizuki nothing is to be done." Hiruzen said sternly, giving Danzō a warning look, refusing to have him try and escalate things further until they're fighting another uprising.
Feeling his annoyance grow, though knowing he couldn't try forcing the issue, Danzō reluctantly backed down for now. Not wanting to jeopardize his plans to get Kabuto on his side and get control of the developing NinTech.
'And once I do, wiping out the trash in the Undercity will be a simple task. Then the rest of the nations will soon follow.' Thought Danzō, knowing he needed to be patient if he hoped to accomplish his goals.
But when the time came, he will ensure that all threats to Konoha's power will be eliminated with no one able to stop him. It was only a matter of time.
*Timeskip-One Day*
*With Obito*
Sitting in his new office in Ichiraku, Obito glanced around at the now sparsely decorated room. Having cleared out everything belonging to Kakashi, not wishing to see any reminders of his old friend.
With him were Jirōbō and Kidōmaru acting as his guards for when the Kage arrive. While the Uchiha was confident that he'll be able to sway them to join his side, he also knew it was foolish and naïve to meet them alone. Not when all of them would be vying to be the new leader of the Lanes.
Plus, they would help him give a demonstration of the benefits that will come with joining him.
'And here they are now.' Obito thought when the office door opened with five people entering, three men and two women that everyone in the Undercity knew.
The first was Kakuzu, the head of a vast network of informants and finances, known to always be watching and listening to everything happening in the Undercity. They also acted as a switchboard for any and all illicit activity in the Lanes, even for other Kage. There were even rumors that Kakuzu's been around since before the Undercity was built, some claiming he had once been an assassin sent to kill Hashirama Senju.
No one actually knew, of course, since he always wore a mask hiding his face. Leaving no one able to guess what he looked like or how old he was. And anyone that's tried digging into his past were always found dead, not long after…usually with some of their internal organs missing.
After him was Guren, who unknown to many is a Ninjutsu-user. Something she kept a well-guarded secret to all but her most trusted followers. As well as the other Kage, who all held some form of leverage over the other, with it helping to keep each other in check. She lead an all-female gang that provided pleasure services, catering to any impulse, persuasion or inclination. Something that made them good at gathering information and getting their clients to spill their darkest secrets. In addition to that, Guren also traded and sold various types of crystals that only she seemed to possess.
Next was the craziest of the Kage, Hidan. Considered by many to be little more than a madman and killer. But a madman and killer who was able to gather enough followers to get his own territory in the Lanes. With it being considered more of a cult than an actual gang with their ritualistic killings and symbols they wear on their clothes. They also specialized in elimination services as well as selling weapons, mostly blades and poisons, along with providing manpower for large-scale operations.
The fourth Kage was Malice, a less-violent prone but still very dangerous woman. With her company specializing in various medical fields and providing the denizens of the Undercity with prosthetics, along with other devices. While not having the experience and equipment one would find in a normal hospital, that didn't stop Malice from being an incredibly skilled doctor to keep someone alive or capable of making all those who crossed her scream.
Finally was the youngest member of the Kage and the newest to join their ranks, Deidara. A criminal from Iwagakure who specialized in explosives. Having made his way to the Undercity where he quickly gathered together his own gang, selling their services in demolition and destruction. Eventually growing into a company that sold their services and the explosives they built.
They were five of the most dangerous and influential citizens of the Lanes, and soon Obito will have all of them in his pocket.
"Ladies, gentlemen. Thank you for meeting with me, today." Obito said while looking them all over.
"Let's get this over with, old man. Some of us have businesses to run." Said Guren, laying down on the couch with a bored look.
"This better not be a waste of time, Uchiha. Time is money and I don't like it when my time is wasted." Kakuzu warned, having only bothered to come out of intrigue at the deal Obito's messenger said he had for them.
"I'm sure you've all already heard by now, Kakashi's dead. I killed him." Stated Obito, while he might not have personally killed Kakashi, despite his best efforts, his actions still lead to his death.
"Oh yeah, we've heard. Taken out in a big explosion, shame I wasn't there to see such a sight." Deidara said, smirking at imagining the feared and respected Hound of the Underground dying in an explosion.
"And now you're here trying to take his place as leader, and you need our help to do it." Malice stated, aware of just why Obito had invited them all here.
"And you all need me. The five of you together have more influence than any one person in the Undercity, Kakashi kept you all in line from trying to overreach now he's dead and you all could do whatever you want. And perhaps one of you could succeed over the others, take the throne and rule over the Lanes. But then you would be putting a target on your back. After all, if I can kill Kakashi, then what's to stop the rest of you from killing whoever takes over next?" Obito asked rhetorically, leaning back when Hidan suddenly pulled out a sickle and held it against his throat.
"Yeah, what's to stop us from just gutting and hanging you up by your fucking entrails right now? I'm sure you'd make a nice sacrifice." Hidan said, smiling madly, while Obito kept his composure even as he felt the sickle begin cutting into his neck.
"The psychopath's got a point. What exactly do you have that we don't? Anything that we can't simply take once you're dead." Said Deidara, wanting to know why they should ally with someone that everyone thought was dead or hiding under a rock.
Rather than respond, Obito raised his hand motioning for Jirōbō and Kidōmaru to give them the demonstration.
Taking out vials of perfected Cursed Blood, Jirōbō and Kidōmaru drank them in an instant, getting the Kage's attention at what that stuff was. Only to be shocked when the two grunted in pain, watching as their veins lit up purple, with black and purple markings spreading over their bodies. Chains of triangular arrows covering Jirōbō's and twisted, entwining vine-like lines over Kidōmaru's.
It didn't stop there as their bodies grew larger and changed, with Jirōbō's skin turning a maroon color, his hair growing longer and warts growing on his forehead and shoulders.
While Kidōmaru's skin turned a deep, brick red, his grew longer and turned a light grey color, only to transform further as suddenly four new arms burst out of his sides for a total of six, his forehead split open revealing a third eye, along with growing horns from his forehead and on his elbows.
The Kage all looked in shock at the transformations, with Hidan even lowering his sickle from Obito's neck while the Uchiha smirked at their reactions before glancing at Jirōbō and Kidōmaru.
He wasn't as surprised at the different transformations compared to when Hibachi and Kakashi drank the Cursed Blood. Orochimaru having explained that those who drank it may experience different transformations compared to others, some more drastic than others as well.
"Oh, that's what I'm talking about!" Said Kidōmaru with a fanged smile, flexing his new arms, feeling like he could tear through an entire army with this power.
"I could tear down a building with my bare hands!" Jirōbō said, feeling like he was ten times stronger than before.
Before he grabbed some solid iron rods that had been brought in for the demonstration, snapping them all in half at once like they were paper. The sight making the Kage tense at the strength he now possessed, only able to imagine what he could do to a person.
"You ask me what I have that you don't? I have a plan, I have the strength, I have the resources and I have the vision. A vision of what the Undercity can be one city, one nation, united together to show everyone in Konoha what we're truly capable of. Join me, and rest be assured that I will give everyone in the Lanes a new life, you will all have your moment in the sun and gain more power than you'll know what to do with." Obito explained, knowing he had them by the looks on their faces.
"Do we all get our own monsters?" Hidan asked eagerly, imagining how much blood his followers would be able to spill with that liquid.
"Cursed Blood, it's still in the early phases, but yes. We'll be setting up factories to begin mass production and perfecting it." Replied Obito, keeping the fact that the Cursed Blood is already perfected to himself.
That's something he'll be keeping close to his chest, letting them all believe the prototype is the perfected version. It's more addictive and doesn't last as long as the completed product, but no less potent. Once he's established his control, then he'll start sending out the completed Cursed Blood, knowing by then they won't be able to get rid of him without hurting their own investments.
"Then just tell me where to sign!" Said Hidan, willing to accept his deal if it meant having new ways to inflict pain and death.
"What exactly do you plan to use this Cursed Blood for? Wage war against Konoha?" Kakuzu asked, wanting to know if he plans to simple turn them all into monsters to attack Konoha.
"There'll be no need for that, once they see what we have they'll be too scared to ever get in our way again. No, once Cursed Blood is mass produced, we'll be shipping it out to other cities, nations and empires. After all, there are plenty of people who will pay good money for their own monsters." Said Obito, with Kakuzu now looking fully interested.
"…I believe there are some spots where factories can be set up." Stated Kakuzu, liking the chance of being able to spread his network out and earn even more money in the process.
"And does this…Cursed Blood only transform people into these…things?" Questioned Malice since if there weren't other uses, then it seemed rather limited.
"Depending on the amount, Cursed Blood can also act as an enhancement, boosting strength, speed, agility, all your physical abilities, minus the transformation. Small amounts can also help speed up the body's natural healing. It can even be used as a fuel source." Obito replied, having injected small amounts of Cursed Blood into his damaged eye, with it helping to hold off the infection from the toxic water.
"Interesting…it may prove useful in improving prosthetics." Malice said, now interested on whether or not the Cursed Blood could have medical properties.
"Indeed. You'll have the chance to find out, especially since I'll be needing you to make a new arm for someone. The best and strongest you can produce." Said Obito, wanting to make sure Kagura's new arm will be better than her old one ever was.
"Okay, I'm actually interested, you've got a deal." Said Guren with a smirk, her interest growing with each of the benefits of Obito's deal.
Seeing he now had four of the Kage on his side, Obito turned to Deidara who had begun idly playing with a lighter, flicking it open and close as he listened to the discussion.
"…You know, I never really liked Kakashi. He was happy to bury his head in the ground, letting every single one of those uptight assholes up top walk all over us. But you…" Deidara said, flicking his lighter close as he smirked at Obito.
"…You know what needs to be done. You're right, you've got a plan, a vision, everything figured out so we're the ones standing tall. And that…that's the kind of person I'm willing to get behind." Said Deidara, offering his own support in Obito's plan.
"Then we have an accord, now it's time for the rest of the Undercity to meet their new management. Jirōbō, Kidōmaru, go spread the word that I'm calling a meeting of the Lanes." Obito ordered, wanting everyone in the Undercity to see the new regime.
Nodding, Jirōbō and Kidōmaru left the office to begin spreading the word for everyone to meet at Ichiraku. With the Kage taking their leave as well to meet with their gangs and companies to begin setting up for the changes coming to the Lanes.
Once they all left and he was sure he was alone, Obito slumped back in his seat while breathing heavily as he brought a hand up to his neck. Feeling the cut Hidan had made. Dropping his calm and collected façade, feeling relieved everything went well.
Despite his confidence in believing the Kage would accept his deal, Obito knew he couldn't have been a hundred percent certain they'd take it or that they wouldn't decide to just kill him. But he couldn't show how nervous he actually was, it'd be the same as sharks smelling blood in the water. So he needed to simply keep the image that he had nothing to worry about, acting like he had everything under control.
'But the hard part's been dealt with. Everything else will be easy in comparison.' Thought Obito as he composed himself, knowing now that he had the Kage, everything else be simple.
*Later*
Obito leaned against the bar in Ichiraku, flanked on either side by Jirōbō and Kidōmaru, looking at the gathered crowd of citizens. More than a few looking wary or nervous at the sight of his transformed allies. Others even looking at him warily, given how he was believed to be dead. Obito, though, was keeping an eye out for the few that may prove to be problems for him.
The most immediate ones he knew would be Tsume Inuzuka, her daughter Hana and Yoshino Nara. He already knew they wouldn't accept him taking over nor will they forgive the deaths of their sons and brother.
After them would be Kurenai Yūhi and Anko Mitarashi, both of them being old friends of Kakashi and Gai, Anko also being a proprietor of one of the few brothels Guren doesn't control.
He also wouldn't put it past the orphans Gai took in, along with the girl Kurenai looked after, to be problems down the line. Even if they're young now, that wouldn't mean they still can't be problems, he only got his chance to take control because of children.
But Obito liked to believe he's also a fair man; he's willing to give them the chance to accept his position and enjoy the benefits as he works to improve the Undercity.
"Welcome friends, I'm pleased to see so many of you have decided to join us for such a momentous occasion. But first, in the spirit of fairness, I will let you all know this. Kakashi and Gai are dead, and I'm the one who killed them." Obito revealed, much to their shock, as well as the horror and sadness of many, to hear Kakashi and Gai are dead.
Though more than a few glared at Obito for killing them, with Anko even stepping forward looking ready to attack.
"You son of a-!" Anko said glaring at Obito, only for Kurenai to hold her back.
"Anko, don't!" Said Kurenai, knowing she'd only get herself killed, no matter how much she wanted to kill Obito herself.
She had heard of what happened to Gai and the Anbu, having heard it right from Neji, Tenten and Lee after Tayuya sent them to her to stay hidden and safe, while she went to try and save Kakashi. But when Kurenai heard about the explosion at the cannery and now seeing Obito, here. It wasn't hard to figure out what happened, much to her sadness at Kakashi dying too. While also being more worried of what happened to the kids.
"Listen to your friend, enough would-be heroes have died doing something foolish." Obito said, before Tsume and Yoshino stepped forward next.
"What about our children?! Where are they?!" Yoshino demanded, worried and terrified at where the kids are, not even wanting to consider they met the same fate.
"As I said…enough would-be heroes have died doing something foolish." Obito stated remorselessly, much to Yoshino's devastation as she fell to her knees with tears streaming down her face.
"You're fucking dead!" Tsume shouted, lunging at Obito, desiring to tear him apart for getting her son and his friends killed.
Though she didn't get far when Kidōmaru moved forward and suddenly spat out a stream of golden webbing that slammed into Tsume, throwing her back to the ground and leaving her trapped.
"Kaa-san!" Hana exclaimed before growling angrily at the transformed spider-like man, moving to help her mother only for Jirōbō to step forward next.
"Try it, little girl." Said Jirōbō, bringing his fist down on a table, causing it to shatter into splinters.
"Hana, don't!" Tsume said, not wanting her daughter to be killed too, grunting as she tried getting up only to barely be able to move from the webbing.
"I'll let this slide, just this once. Don't do it again or you can bury both your children." Obito warned, motioning Kidōmaru to let her free, with him ripping the webbing off the Inuzuka.
"I'm loving this new power." Stated Kidōmaru, smirking as he stood beside Obito again.
"Now then, it's an unfortunate loss that the Undercity has suffered, but a necessary one. Kakashi was weak and a fool, he stood by and did nothing as everyone here continued to suffer under Konoha's reign. Many of you seemed content to live off of their scraps, I however believe we deserve better. We do deserve better, because we are more than the vermin they see us as. Which is why from this moment forward, I will be taking the position of leader of the Lanes." Obito declared, only to get several scoffs at his words.
"Why the hell would we ever agree to that? You just admitted to killing Kakashi, Gai and innocent children!" Anko retorted, knowing she'll sooner die than live under his thumb.
"And how many children have already died because of Konoha? Disease and sickness, starvation, exposure, The Grey or at the hands of Anbu. Not just children, but men and women, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters. How many more needed to die before Kakashi decided enough was enough? How many more were going to die before Konoha's Council decided to simply wipe us all out and be done with it?" Questioned Obito while looking around, with many thinking of the friends and family they've lost because of Konoha.
"Perhaps some of you are content to continue living in such a way. I'm not and none of you should be either, because now we can show those Konoha we are so much more than their discarded remains. That we will not be forgotten or ignored. Join me and I will show all of you what the Undercity can truly become. A true city, a true nation, together we will force them hear us by giving them something they can't ignore. Never again will we live in fear of Anbu, no longer will we need to lose loved ones, we will rise up stronger than ever. Stand with me and stand with the future of Otogakure." Obito explained as he pulled out a vial of Cursed Blood.
"Join me, and you will have power." Stated Obito, placing the vial on a table.
"Now then, will you remain toiling in the filth waiting for the end to come? Or will you rise to the surface?" Obito asked, looking at the gathered crowd.
For a moment no one moved until soon people began stepping forward with more joining them, until soon most of the crowd was crying out and cheering. All of them desiring to finally be free from Konoha's shackles, to no longer live off of scraps and runoff.
Though not everyone stepped forward, a few of which being Kurenai, Anko, Yoshino, Tsume and Hana, none of them having any desire to side with Obito. Not after what he's done. Knowing he'll only drag the Lanes further down until it's become the crime-filled alleys everyone in Konoha believed it to be. With them all leaving Ichiraku, knowing they needed to spread the word to the rest of the Lanes. Hoping not everyone will be brainwashed into believing the Uchiha could ever make things better.
While Obito couldn't help but gain a small, satisfied smirk at how many were already joining him, and more will soon follow with the Kage on his side and word soon spreading of the new leadership. Pleased that in a day he's already regained the numbers he's lost in the explosion and then some.
'Now this…this is what progress looks like.' Obito thought, pleased and knowing things will only get better.
Before he frowned and glanced at the floor, sensing something in the basement before moving to find out what it was.
*With Jinx*
Meanwhile, in Ichiraku's basement, Jinx was listening to music as she was drawing up designs for some new explosives. Starting to understand why all her previous gadgets always failed and now intended to improve them.
"I need something, a spark or a chemical or flame, something to use as a trigger to make them go, boom…" Jinx muttered to herself.
"Yeah, then you can kill more people that you claim to care about."
"Shut up!" Hissed Jinx, glaring off to the side at the distorted image of Kiba that appeared, looking like a twisted amalgamation of the Inuzuka and Akamaru merged together.
"Why? Does the truth hurt you damn jinx?! So does getting blown up and crushed!"
"I didn't do it! I only wanted to help!" Jinx retorted, looking away only to see a distorted Shikamaru appear.
"Always a troublesome brat, thinking she's helping, but only making things worse."
"At least I try to do stuff! You'd rather just lay around, doing nothing all day!" Said Jinx, turning away again only to see Chōji now looking at her with empty, dead eyes.
"Why bother? You'll just make things worse for everyone. You always do, even for those that care about you."
"I only wanted to help! Leave me alone!" Jinx shouted, covering her ears and closing her eyes.
"You helped alright, helped yourself! You helped Obito to take over our home and now he's going to kill everyone we care about! You're nothing but a jinx!"
"No, no, no! Shut up!" Yelled Jinx, still hearing the voices despite her best efforts to block them out.
"Why don't you just give up? Do everyone a favor and leave! No wants a troublesome jinx hanging around."
"Th-th-that's…that's not true! Mr. Obito wants me around! He helped me!" Jinx said desperately, knowing Obito wants her around after he helped her.
"Only because you did him a favor. He'll see the truth soon enough, that you're just a jinx that ruins everything."
"Stop talking. Stop talking. Stop talking. Stop talking. Stop talking. Stop talking." Muttered Jinx, repeatedly as she rocked back and forth on the floor.
"You and Obito are the same, scum who are worse than trash, that betray everyone. Your parents would be ashamed to have you as a daughter."
"N-Naru-"
"I SAID SHUT UP!" Jinx screamed, turning and throwing one of her defective bombs at what she thought was a distorted vision of Kakashi.
Only to see it was Hinata, Tenten, Lee and Neji, with Neji pulling Hinata out of the way to avoid being hit by the bomb.
"What the hell?! It's just us!" Tenten said, holding her hands up, seeing the crazed look in Jinx's eyes.
"O-oh…you guys. I thought…I thought you were someone else." Said Jinx, looking around for any sign of people that should be dead.
"What're you all doing here?" Jinx asked, wondering if they were brought here by Kurenai for the meeting.
"We wished to see if you and the others were alright. Even more so when we saw Obito's followers bringing everyone to Ichiraku." Lee said, looking around for where the others could be, only to see no one but Jinx.
"Oh. Well it's just me, the others kinda…came down with a case of being blown up. The boys at least, no idea where the other one went." Said Jinx, much to their shock and horror.
"Wh-what? Kiba, Akamaru, Shikamaru, Chōji, Kakashi?" Tenten asked, not wanting to believe they all died.
"Dead, dead, definitely dead, super dead and very dead. Just a lot of dead going around." Jinx replied with a shrug, as the four looked at her in worry at the way she's acting.
"Nar-AH!" Neji said, only to scream and flinch when a ball was suddenly shot at his eye.
"Don't call me that." Said Jinx, holding a toy gun she swiped from the arcade, before she looked it over curiously.
"You think I can make this thing shoot real bullets?" Jinx wondered out loud, interested in the idea of converting it into a real gun, she'll have to look into that.
"What's your problem?! You hit Neji!" Said Tenten, glaring at her lightly.
"So? He's not really hurt. Now seriously, do you think this could be a real gun? Bombs are fun and all, I mean who doesn't like explosions. But it would be nice to have other weapons too." Said Jinx, thinking of how she could make a real weapon out of the toy.
Her words only further unsettled the four, wondering what could've happened to make her start acting like this.
"N-Na-AH!" Lee said while stepping forward hesitantly, hoping to get her to calm down, only cry out when she shot him in the like Neji.
"Okay seriously, stop trying to say that name. It's Jinx now, use it or lose a tongue." Jinx warned, much to their shock that she actually just threatened them.
"O-ok-okay…J-Jinx. W-we-we…we just want to help you. B-but-but can we get out o-of here, please." Hinata said hopefully, wanting them to get out of here before Obito or any of his followers showed up.
"Why would I leave?" Jinx asked, blinking in confusion.
"Yes, why indeed would she leave her home?"
The voice made the kids tense, while Jinx turned and smiled at Obito as he stood in the doorway, looking at them all intently.
"Hi, Mr. Obito!" Jinx said, going up and standing beside him, leaving the others watching her in disbelief.
"How'd the meeting go? Did anyone try making trouble?" Jinx asked curiously.
"It went well, the Kage are on our side and many citizens have already joined as well. It won't be long before the rest see the way things are going and seek to join Otogakure as it rises up." Replied Obito, making Jinx's smile grow.
"Oooooh, Otogakure…I like that! The louder the noise, the bigger the explosion!" Said Jinx, with the corners of Obito's mouth twitching up slightly.
"Quite." Obito stated while still looking at the four intruders.
"Wh-wh-wh-what…what the hell are you doing?! Don't you know who that is! That's the monster who killed Gai, Kakashi and the others!" Said Tenten, not believing how casually she was acting around Obito.
Only for Jinx's next words to shock them all to their cores.
"Well…technically I killed Kakashi and the others…not on purpose! It wasn't on purpose!" Jinx said, suddenly glaring at the corner of the room, before looking back at the others.
"It wasn't on purpose, no matter what they keep saying! But well…can't make a bomb without blowing up a few people. Why are you looking at me like that?" Jinx asked when she saw the looks on their faces.
"Y-yo-yo-you…k-ki-k-killed them?" Lee said, horrified that she killed Kakashi and the others.
"Wh-what about T-Ta-" Said Hinata for once actually feeling fear about her friend, though not of her, but for her, at what must've happened.
Before Hinata fell silent when another ball shot right past her head, Jinx giving her a blank look but her eye was twitching slightly.
"I missed on purpose that time, but never ever say her name again or else I won't miss the next one. She's not my sister, the only thing she did was give me my name. Jinx." Jinx said, refusing to even hear Tayuya's name.
"I believe that is the end of the reunion. As you can see, Jinx is rather busy and you children need to run along. I'm sure Kurenai will be very worried if she finds you four missing, and I'd hate for anything to happen should she do anything…drastic." Said Obito, the underlying threat being clear as day to the kids.
With no other choice, the four quickly took their leave with Neji needing to pull Hinata along when she stopped near Jinx and tried to say something. Knowing they needed to get out of here fast, before anything else happened.
"Why were they here?" Obito asked, looking at Jinx, wanting to know what they were doing.
"They came by, asking what happened, kept trying to call me some other name then tried getting me to leave. No idea why, though." Replied Jinx, scratching her head with her gun.
"Mm, of course. Though that does make me want to discuss something with you." Obito asked, going down the steps while looking around the basement.
"Wh-what?" Questioned Jinx, now very nervous, terrified that he actually didn't want her around anymore.
"Your sister. She's still out there, somewhere." Said Obito, causing Jinx to frown and clench her fists.
"So? Let her run around wherever she wants. Maybe she'll trip and fall down a well, find a new sister she likes." Jinx muttered as she went back to her designs, now working on one to convert her toy gun into a real gun.
"And what if she's found? What happens then?" Obito asked, needing to know what Jinx would do, if Tayuya is found or comes back.
"Then she's found and can go bother someone else. I'm just Jinx to her now, that's all I'll ever be, that's what she said." Said Jinx, doing her best to ignore the nagging voice in her head telling her she should try to find Tayuya and talk to her.
"Then there won't be a problem if I have people out searching for her?" Questioned Obito since out of all the orphans Kakashi took in, he knew Tayuya would be the most problematic.
Not only due to the fact that Kakashi had clearly trained her to be his successor, but her heritage as well. Making her a very real threat if she's left alone to hide and gather allies when she's older. Making the Uchiha want to eliminate that problem before it truly becomes one.
"No, no problem." Jinx said, though Obito didn't even need his Sharingan to tell she was lying.
"Right…when she's found, I'll let you know. In the event you change your mind and wish to see her." Obito offered, wanting to see if she'll say the same thing when face-to-face with Tayuya again.
"I won't, but thanks for the offer, Mr. Obito." Replied Jinx, having no interest or desire to talk to Tayuya again, let alone see her ever again, once again ignoring the nagging voice in her head telling her differently.
Nodding in response, Obito left the basement since he still had more business to deal with today to further solidify his hold on the Lanes and ensuring the Anbu stay out of his business.
*With Mizuki*
The moment he stepped off the Thunder Rail, Mizuki felt like he was ready to explode from tension. Having been feeling like this the moment he left Hōzuki Castle.
Despite how others might view his actions, he wasn't a fool nor was he stupid, Mizuki knew once he returned to Konoha there would be questions. A squad of Anbu, including the Commander, go down into the Undercity to arrest the culprit behind the explosion and he's the only that walks away alive. He was fully aware of what would await him the moment he arrived back in the city.
Leaving Mizuki to try and think of any explanation that would at least keep him from being locked away for the rest of his life. Already knowing he couldn't say anything about the deal he made with Obito, that'll only get him thrown into a cell next to the brat in Blood Prison. But also having no idea how he can explain the fact out of the entire team, he was the only one left alive.
It made him grateful for the time he had on the Thunder Rail to try and think up a plausible excuse that will, hopefully, at most only end with him being dismissed from Anbu. Better that than being thrown into Blood Prison for the rest of his life.
'I just need to get to the Council and hope they haven't learned exactly what happened yet.' Mizuki thought with his entire plan hinging on the chance word hasn't begun spreading of what happened in the Undercity and the cannery.
Unfortunately, before he got far from the station, Mizuki froze when two Anbu approached him.
"Is there a problem?" Mizuki asked while doing his best to remain calm.
"The Council requires your presence, Mizuki. Please come with us, we're to escort you." Said one of the Anbu, only making Mizuki's panic grow.
"O-of course." Said Mizuki, already knowing he didn't have a choice and trying to leave would only make him look suspicious.
With no other choice, Mizuki followed the Anbu to the Council Building, all while trying to think of the reason for the reason the Council needed to see him and what they could've heard by now.
'They couldn't know the truth, right? Everyone involved is dead or locked up, and no one saw me bringing the brat to the Blood Prison. The only one who'd know the truth is Obito and he wouldn't risk telling the truth, he'd only bring himself down with me!' Thought Mizuki, doubting that Obito would have revealed what happened and risk his own plans.
Leaving it rather limited for how the Council could have found out what happened, if someone had seen what happened, if more Anbu went down to investigate and found the bodies, if one of Obito's surviving followers betrayed him. Mizuki wasn't sure how or who could've told the Council, only able to hope he'd be able to get out this relatively unscathed and his freedom intact.
His worry only grew the closer they got to the Council Building until he began contemplating making a run for it, when they got inside and headed for the elevator.
'Maybe I should just tell the truth.' Mizuki thought, now beginning to feel that he should just reveal what really happened.
He'll be shamed and disgraced, viewed as a traitor and locked away for the rest of his life, but he'd also be able to ensure Obito is brought down too. Him and everyone else that sides with him, which could be worth it, even if it means destroying his own life in the process.
"The Council is waiting for you at the top." Said one of the Anbu as they reached the elevator, motioning him inside.
Though as he did so, Mizuki suddenly felt one of the Anbu slip something into one of his hands. Making him turn to questioned what they were doing. Only for the elevator doors to close behind him, leaving him looking at what the object was.
His confusion growing when he saw it was an envelope before feeling his blood turn to ice in his veins, when he saw the red and white fan symbol stamped on it.
'No…no, no, no, no, no… HOW?!' Thought Mizuki, freaking out that somehow Obito got someone in the Anbu or maybe someone just disguised as an Anbu to deliver this to him.
Either way he was terrified at just how close he was to one of Obito's followers without even realizing it, even more so at what could be so important for him to have delivered.
Shakily, Mizuki opened the envelope to find a note and a picture inside as he began hyperventilating when he saw it was a picture of his fiancée, Tsubaki. Looking like it was taken without her knowledge from inside their house, much to his horror that Obito knew about her and where they lived. Even more so at what was written on the picture.
Do what I say or she becomes my doctor's next test subject.
Looking at the note, Mizuki turned deathly pale as he saw it was instructions from Obito, instructions on what he will tell the Council about what happened in the Undercity.
'H-h-ho-how…' Mizuki thought, not believing Obito would have actually planned for this, now realizing why he had been the only one allowed to live.
Before he quickly stuffed the note and picture back into the envelope, slipping it into his boot where no one would see it. With Mizuki then quickly composing himself as best as he could to play the part he was now forced to play.
Once the elevator reached the top, Mizuki had managed to regain his composure enough that one would need to look closely to see any signs of what he was feeling. As he stepped out of the elevator into the Council Chambers, seeing the Council awaiting his arrival.
Walking forward until he was standing before them, Mizuki clasped his hands in front of him, waiting to be addressed and questioned.
"Officer Mizuki, it has come to the Councils attention that late last night, you and Commander Uzuki traveled down into the Undercity. Is this correct?" Questioned Hiruzen, not saying anything of what they had been told, wanting to see if what Mizuki tells them lines up with what they already knew..
"Yes, Headmaster. The Commander received a message from the Undercity, the culprit chose to finally come forward and accept punishment for the explosion in the Academy District." Mizuki replied.
"The culprit came forth themselves. Why?" Inoichi asked, wondering why the culprit chose to step forward now.
"I cannot say to understand the reasoning. But I believe they understood that until they were found, the Undercity would continue to be raided and the people interrogated until we found the one responsible. My last raid in the Undercity came from a tip provided to me by a merchant by the name of Tobi. He pointed me to where I might find the culprit, a bar called Ichiraku. But when I arrived, they weren't anywhere to be found. I believe they were being protected by Kakashi Hatake." Explained Mizuki, telling them everything Obito wanted him say.
"And you trusted one of those criminals to tell the truth?" Danzō demanded, finding it foolish to believe anyone in the Lanes could tell the truth.
"I believe so, as it wasn't long after my raid the Commander received the message informing us the culprit stepped forward. However, I will confess to have been suspicious of the timing, that it could have instead been used to lure us into a trap. I tried warning Commander Uzuki of this. But…she believed the message was genuine, that Hatake would do the smart thing and turn the culprit over to us." Mizuki said, gulping as the lies came out.
"Instead it was indeed a trap." Stated Hiashi, Mizuki nodded in response.
"It was a trap. Hatake was waiting for us with his allies, they attacked from the shadows, killing everyone. Commander Uzuki was the last to fall, leaving only me. I would've died as well, had I not suspected we were walking into a trap. It shames me that I failed to save my teammates and Commander Uzuki, but I refused to let their deaths be in vein. I managed to escape before being killed, luring them to an abandoned cannery that I rigged with explosives and a means to escape while trapping them all inside. I stayed long enough to ensure there were no survivors." Said Mizuki, wanting more than anything for this to be over.
"And you are certain the assailant responsible for the explosion in the Academy District was among them?" Questioned Shibi as there's still no way of knowing for certain.
"I am. Afterwards I disguised myself and returned to Ichiraku, finding evidence that Hatake had been hiding the assailant, I made sure to destroy everything they had stolen so that no one else could get their hands on it. Once I had done so, I believed it would be wise to go into hiding for the time being, as to avoid being targeted by anyone in the Undercity that may seek retribution against me for Hatake's death. When I felt it was safe, I returned immediately to inform you, the Council, of what transpired." Mizuki replied, with the Councilors exchanging looks before looking down at him.
"Your story lines up with the report we received last night of what occurred." Tsunade stated, seeing that perhaps the report was true.
"Indeed. Though it saddens us to hear the death of Commander Uzuki and your squad mates, you have done a great service to Konoha." Added Sarutobi, though silently admitted to wishing it hadn't ended in more death on both sides.
"Agreed. Officer Mizuki, you have helped bring these criminals to justice and eliminated a dangerous threat to the safety of Konoha. As well as once more reminding the criminal element beneath us what happens to those that think themselves safe from retribution. For your service, the Council will see you justly rewarded." Danzō said, pleased that the criminals were dead along with Kakashi, knowing such a blow will hopefully break the vermin in the Lanes once and for all.
And on the chance that they were still foolish enough to try and rise against Konoha, then all the better to wipe them out entirely.
"Thank you, Councilor. Though the only reward I require is the knowledge that my actions will help in ensuring Konoha's continued safety." Mizuki replied while bowing his head, hiding the faint glare on his face, unable to fully contain the self-loathing at doing exactly what Obito wanted him to do.
"Wise words, but still, your actions have likely prevented another war from being fought within Konoha. Such deeds will be rewarded. But I'm sure you have been through enough and wish to return home." Hiruzen said, dismissing Mizuki.
"Yes, of course. Thank you, Councilor." Said Mizuki, turning to leave, more than eager to get out of here and back home, where he can pretend he was any different than the criminals he hated and looked down on.
*Later*
Mizuki couldn't help but sigh in relief as he walked into his home, glad to be back here where he can pretend there weren't any problems. That he didn't betray his allies, that he didn't just tell a load of bullshit lies to the Council that would only get him exiled if he's lucky. Where he can just pretend everything is normal and without any concerns.
"Mizuki, is that you?!" Said Tsubaki, making the Anbu smile slightly, glad that she's here to help him forget the night and day he's had.
"Yeah, it's me! I just had to go report to the Council!" Mizuki replied, going to see where she is.
"You're just in time! We're in the living room!" Tsubaki said, with Mizuki frowning in confusion at her words.
"We? Who else is-" Said Mizuki, not expecting them to have company.
But the moment he stepped into the living room, Mizuki felt his heart jump into his throat and fear course through his body when he saw Obito sitting across from Tsubaki. With him wearing a coat over his usual attire and his eyes weren't red anymore, at least the left one was now being a solid black. While the right eye still had a black sclera, but a distorted orange pupil.
And the despite the seemingly friendly smile he had, Mizuki knew it was anything but friendly and one wrong move could get them both killed.
"Hello Mizuki, you're just in time for tea." Obito said, smiling as he held a teacup, taking a sip.
"Wh-wh-what're you d-d-doing here?" Mizuki asked, trying to remain calm despite the situation.
"Obito just wanted to stop by, he told me all about how you two met." Said Tsubaki, smiling at her fiancé, unaware of how dangerous the person in her home truly was.
"Y-yo-you did?" Said Mizuki. wondering just what Obito told her.
"Of course. I was more than happy to tell her about you saved me from that gang of hoodlums, risking yourself even when outnumbered and backed into a corner. And obviously I couldn't let you go without a reward. Your husband is a true hero, Tsubaki, and one I'm happy to call a friend." Obito said kindly, with Tsubaki smiling.
"We're not married yet, but I'm hoping we will be soon. But I'm sure you know how Mizuki can be, always focused on working ever since joining the Anbu. Though it makes me happy he's out there, helping protect people and keeping the city safe." Said Tsubaki, smiling at Mizuki, who nervously returned it.
"Y-y-yes, th-thank you…Obito. How about w-we actually go out now, catch up over a few drinks." Mizuki offered, wanting to get him out of here as soon as possible.
"Oh no, no, no. I couldn't possibly pull you away from this lovely lady, I'm sure you've been eager to return to her after a long night." Said Obito, setting his cup down and standing up.
"Tsubaki, it was lovely to have met you, I hope we can do this again some time." Obito said, smiling at the woman.
"Of course! I'm glad to finally meet one of Mizuki's friends, please stop by again any time." Tsubaki replied, much to Mizuki's panic as Obito smirked.
"I'm sure I will." Said Obito as he walked past Mizuki, the Anbu following after him to the door.
Once they were outside and the door closed, Obito lost his smile as he faced Mizuki.
"Such a lovely woman, one I'm sure you'd do anything to keep safe." Obito stated, as Mizuki gulped.
"I did what you wanted okay?! I told the Council everything you wanted me too! We're done!" Mizuki whispered, refusing to do anything else for him anymore.
Tensing when Obito smiled coldly and put a hand on his shoulder, dangerously close to his neck.
"Are we, friend? Look around you." Said Obito, with Mizuki glancing around as if expecting to see he was surrounded, but didn't see anything out of the ordinary.
"You have a nice house, a nice neighborhood, a nice woman to come home to. Now imagine this house, this neighborhood, this entire city being torn down, bodies and blood flooding the streets. That is what will happen if you don't be a good little soldier and do as you're ordered." Obito threatened as the Anbu stood frozen.
"But you see, I'm a reasonable man. I don't want to go to war with Konoha, I just want everyone to stay out of my business and out of the Lanes. That can't happen if you don't help me. Isn't that what you want? To keep Konoha safe, to be the hero everyone can admire? Or do you want to be forever remembered as the man that doomed Konoha to destruction? Because I can and will make that happen, you won't be a hero, you'll only ever be known as a pariah, the traitor that gave me the means to take over the Undercity and burn Konoha to the ground." Said Obito, glancing over Mizuki's should at his house.
"And I'll start with her. I'll make sure she knows just how brave and heroic you really are, right before I let my monsters rip her apart." Obito added as Mizuki remained frozen.
"…What do you want?" Mizuki muttered hopelessly, realizing he was trapped.
"What do I want? I have everything I want, for the moment that is. No, it's not what I want, it's what you want. You want to be the hero, and now you are, the brave Anbu who alone survived an attack from the evil and cruel criminals of the Undercity. Who helped hunt down the ones responsible for destroying a building and stopping the wicked Cold-Blooded Kakashi from staging another revolt. The hero, that rose to become Anbu Commander." Said Obito, smirking, with Mizuki now realizing what he wanted.
With him as Anbu Commander, he'd have full authority over the Anbu, deciding where they went and what they did. Only being overruled by the Council. Meaning that so long as he was in charge then no Anbu would go into the Undercity, again. Leaving Obito free to do as he wished, without worry of Anbu getting involved.
"Never forget, I can hold your leash or I can hang you with it. Are we clear, Commander." Obito said, Mizuki could only nod numbly in response.
"Good. Now there's just one more matter. I need you to find a girl, fifteen years-old with red hair, curses a lot and knows how to fight. Find her and bring her to me." Said Obito, wanting Tayuya found as soon as possible.
"She's dead." Mizuki immediately replied, making the Uchiha frown.
"What?" Questioned Obito, not expecting to hear that.
"She's dead, I found her down by the cannery after the explosion. I drugged her, tied her up and threw her into the river. You can try fishing up the body if you want, if it hasn't already been eaten." Said Mizuki, knowing if he revealed he saved the girl and took her to Hōzuki Castle, then he's a dead man.
Obito narrowed his eyes, searching Mizuki's face and body language for any sign that he's lying. While he could just use his Sharingan to find the truth in his head, he can't risk activating it in Konoha. Not where it could be seen or risk being sensed from even just the smallest amount of Chakra being used.
Though he also didn't see any hint that Mizuki was lying either, making him smirk and pat him on the shoulder.
"You see? We do work well together. I'll be in touch should I need you." Obito said, pleased that's now one less problem to deal with, even better that he doesn't even need to kill Tayuya himself.
With his business done, Obito took his leave to return to the Lanes and resume building up his powerbase and cementing his control. Leaving Mizuki standing alone. Now feeling more trapped than he ever would have been, locked in a cage.
So, what did you think, good. Yep we see the cover story Obito had fed to the Council, making it out that Kakashi was responsible for killing Yūgao and the Anbu. Along with making Mizuki out to be the hero who helped stop the "criminal scum" of the Undercity from staging another revolt. Which as we learn is part of his plan to place Mizuki in charge of the Anbu and in his pocket.
Before we then go to the next day where Obito meets with the Kage, who we learn are Kakuzu, Hidan, Guren, Malice and Deidara, each with their own specialty, business and gang they control in the Undercity. With Obito making his offer to them, listing out his plans and the benefits that'll come from joining him, giving a demonstration of what Cursed Blood can do. Managing to get the Kage's support, much to his secret relief once he's alone that he was able to persuade them.
As we then see a meeting of the entire Undercity at Ichiraku, with Obito revealing his hand in Kakashi's, Gai's and the children's deaths, much to Tsume's and Yoshino's pain at their sons being killed. Along with Kurenai and Anko's own pain at Kakashi's and Gai's deaths. Not helped when Obito then reveals his intentions to lead the Undercity and the changes he'll make, making it a true city and nation, Otogakure. With many joining him for the chance to break free from Konoha's shackles.
Next we see Jinx working on improving her bombs to get them to work without the gemstones, only to get a look in her head as she's tormented by the voices of adoptive family. With her unable to block them out or ignore them despite her best efforts. Only snapping back to reality when Hinata, Neji, Tenten and Lee arrive.
All of them having come to check on their friends, only to find just Jinx learning what happened to the others. While growing increasingly unnerved at Jinx's behavior, even more so when she shoots at them when they try calling her Naruko and her closeness to Obito. Before being left horrified when she admits to being responsible killing Kakashi and the boys. As they're then left with no choice but to leave.
With Obito questioning Jinx of what they wanted, before bringing up her sister and what Jinx would do if reunited with Tayuya. Only for Jinx to dismiss her, yet shows that not all of her agrees with the idea of cutting Tayuya out of her life entirely, but does her best to ignore that part. While the Uchiha reveals he plans to have her tracked down, not wanting to take the chance of Tayuya eventually challenging his rule.
Finally we see Mizuki returning to Konoha while trying to work out a plan to avoid being labeled as a traitor for his actions, hoping he can give the Council his own story of what happened and at most be dismissed from Anbu. Only to find himself brought to the Council by Anbu, leaving him worried of what they could know. His worry only growing when he's slipped a message and a warning from Obito to do what he says or else.
Forcing Mizuki to go along with the story given to the Council of the events in the Lanes, making Mizuki out to be a hero for stopping an uprising. Before he returned home, where Obito is waiting for him with Tsubaki, much to his panic and fear. As Mizuki learns even if he's not in a cage, he's still trapped with Obito now holding his leash, fully intending to have him become Anbu Commander and do everything he says.
With his first order being to find Tayuya, only for Mizuki to tell a lie that she's already dead and gone, which Obito believes with his Sharingan deactivated and having no reason to believe Mizuki would try lying. Before taking his leave to continue solidifying his control over Otogakure, while it sinks into Mizuki what has happened to him. So, for those that like the story, thanks for your support. For those that don't or at least don't like the direction taken, you're more than welcomed to drop the story. But thanks for giving the story a chance anyway.
Storm out