Chapter 18: A Red-Clouded Sky
With Team 8
Nightfall came, and Sakura couldn't help the sense of despair growing bigger at the second. She was going paranoic, haunted by the feeling that Gozu and Rinji would emerge from the darkness wherever she looked. She flinched at the slightest noise. Sakura held her kunai with both hands tight close to her chest. She was exhausted; she wanted to give in and fall asleep, but she was too afraid to do so. Her body was trembling out of fear. She wondered what those two impressive bursts of chakra that forced the two Jounin to escape had been. They all would be dead if it hadn't been for those chakras. Sakura looked down to her left to see her teammate, Kiba. The boy had fallen asleep or passed out; she wasn't sure. Kiba had kept his ninken and friend, Akamaru, in his arms, as if carrying a baby, for hours without muttering a word until he fell asleep. Sakura broke into tears at the sight. She covered her mouth and tried to make no noise. She didn't want to wake up Kiba. Sakura never imagined she could feel so attached to a puppy, but Akamaru soon became the team's soul. He always cheered her up in the missions and found a way to make her feel safer. After a few months with Team Eight, she could've sworn she had started understanding Akamaru's barks. She was sure it was just her imagination, that her mind had decided to give the meaning she wanted to listen to Akamaru's barks. She smiled as she remembered how Kiba tried to teach him to talk. The Inuzuka boy had said most ninken were able to talk, like Izumi-sensei's ninnekos. Akamaru, however, didn't seem to have such ability, nor the will to even try learning it, to Kiba's annoyance. Sakura was engrossed in her thoughts and fond memories when she heard a noise coming from the dark and stood up, holding her kunai.
– Who's there? Do not get any closer! – Sakura stuttered. Her voice reflected her fear and transmitted no authority at all. She gulped, and then sighed in relief as she saw her other teammate, Shino, coming back. The Aburame boy had insisted on getting the provisions for the night while Sakura looked after Kiba.
Shino limped, carrying a gourd from which he had removed the filler to turn into a water container, and three oddly big hares were on his shoulder. Sakura stared at the wooden splint she made for Shino's leg. Shino had waited until Kiba fell asleep to ask her to help him with the splint. Kiba would've tried to heal him, and Shino knew the Inuzuka boy was out of chakra.
– You scared the hell out of me, Shino – the pink-haired girl said as she helped Shino put down the hares.
– I'm sorry. I didn't mean to – Said the Aburame boy as Sakura got closer to help him out – I'll start the fire – Shino continued as he gathered pieces of wood.
Sakura and Shino sat before the fire, eating the hares. They decided it was better to let Kiba rest and didn't wake him up. Sakura found the hare to have a strong herby flavor. It wasn't the best, but it was all they'd got, and it was either this or starve to death.
– What do you gather from all this, Shino? – Sakura asked after taking a sip of water from the gourd.
Shino said nothing for a while. He sat there staring at the insect in his hand. Most of Shino's bugs had been devoured by Rinji's bats. Shino explained to Sakura that the swarm would grow again since the eggs of the insects were inside his body. However, it would take between 24 to 36 more hours for the eggs to hatch and another half a day for the bugs to mature.
– Rinji and Gozu disguised as Kusa-nins. The kunoichi that stayed behind fighting Teams Seven and Eight must've burst her chakra to warn them – Sakura gulped – Warn them? About what? – I don't know. Maybe they'd been discovered. They fled immediately. However – Shino stayed mute and stared at the fire.
– However? – Sakura mumbled. Hoping the Aburame boy would come out from his lethargy. Shino looked up. It was hard to read his expression behind those dark glasses
– Rinji and Gozu were Jounin-level shinobis, and that chakra burst. I don't think even my father could cast such a chakra burst – Sakura's eyes went wide open. Shino's father was the head of the ANBU corps, and Kiba seemed to look up to Shibi-san. He's known to be one of the strongest shinobis in the village – It makes you wonder, doesn't it? What could be so important for the Snake Sannin to send those three strong shinobis and risk them being discovered and captured by infiltrating the exams? – Sakura stood up abruptly. Shino stared at her, intrigued. Unknown for Team Eight, the third infiltrated shinobi was the Snake Sannin himself.
– They were after Sasuke, Naruto and Hinata! Remember what Team Ten said about their mission? – Shino seemed unsurprised by Sakura's deduction – We must hurry back and find them! We must make sure they're safe – Sakura said. She looked at Shino, waiting for him to stand up or say anything, but the boy stayed as calm as ever.
– We're in no condition to go to their aid, Sakura. The best we can do is reach the tower and inform the proctors. Although, if I'm not mistaken, they must already be aware. Those chakras were not something they could ignore. Besides, there is no way someone could abduct the son of the Hokage within the village boundaries. And also, – Shino turned to look at Kiba and Akamaru – without Kiba's smell and my insects, we may end up running into another team and we have no strength left to battle – he looked back to Sakura – At dawn, we leave for the tower. We'll leave the rest to the Jounins – Sakura bit her lip. She knew Shino was right, yet she wanted to go and find Teams Seven and Ten. She was about to argue when two small snakes emerged from the ground and bit them on their ankles. Shino stood abruptly and grunted as he hurt his injured leg – What … was … that? – Shino muttered as he and Sakura passed out.
– Was that necessary? – Kasai asked as he landed next to Kiba and Akamaru. The snakes slithered up Anko's legs and hid under her coat. The kunoichi stared at the genins, sorrow in her eyes. Bad memories from her time as Orochimaru's student flooded her mind.
– Who would've thought you had a soft side, Anko – the man said as he placed his hand on Kiba's head. He put a genjutsu on the boy so he wouldn't wake up suddenly. He expected to annoy the kunoichi with his comment, but she didn't react. She truly looked ashamed and sad. Kasai sighed. He walked and stood before the kunoichi. He placed his thumb and index fingers on Anko's chin and lifted her head –Orochimaru's-sama actions are not your responsibility, Anko – She looked away.
– I knew sensei was up to no good back then, but I didn't say anything. I wanted so badly to be acknowledged by him that I pretended I didn't know how dark his heart was – Anko's voice was uncommonly low and trembling. She turned around and looked up at the treetops – I helped him killed some of my classmates – Kasai frowned.
– You know that's not true, Anko. He manipulated you – Kasai said as he placed his hands on Anko's shoulders. She scoffed – I should've noticed sooner. He would often ask me who the most promising shinobis from my generation were. Not long after, whenever he asked, some of them would suddenly disappear. I knew he was behind their disappearances, but I was so jealous. Jealous that he showed more interest in other genins than in me. That I was not strong enough for him. He never went after the most well-known, of course, like Kakashi, Asuma, Ibiki, and others, to avoid raising suspicions – Anko's eyes watered.
Kasai shook Anko – Hey, cut it out! Sandaime-sama found out at the end and stopped him. He would've done it anyway! He kidnapped Jounins and even members of the ANBU! You, Sandaime-sama and Jiraiya-sensei must stop blaming yourselves for Orochimaru-sama's actions. You three were blinded by your love for him. What happened today here, and what happened all those years ago, IS NOT YOUR FAULT. Do you understand? – Anko looked away to avoid Kasai's eyes. He then hugged her, and she burst into tears. She hugged him back.
Kasai understood her frustration more than anyone else. Kasai, like her, was a student of one of the Legendary Sannin, yet they lived shadowed by their senseis' reputation, never living up to the expectations the Shinobi World had on them. Kasai, even though he was one of the strongest shinobis of the village, was often ignored and forgotten as people would tend to compare him with his teammate, Yondaime Hokage. On the other hand, she was known as the student of the traitor and was often mistrusted and ostracized by several shinobis and most of the villagers. Her last living teammate, Megane, seemed to not care about that. He had decided to keep a low profile, and the village eventually forgot about him. He had even taken a genin team a couple of years before. The Council's civilian members had always got in the way whenever she asked to be assigned a genin team. She was jealous of Megane. She was disappointed when she heard that this year, again, he hadn't recommended his team for the Chunin Exams. She suspected he feared his team would never be allowed to participate, given his connection to Orochimaru.
With Teams 5, 7 & 10
Teams Seven and Ten sat on the ground, depressed. They had asked Neji to inspect the area and ensure Team Eight was safe and sound since Hinata was too exhausted to activate her Byakugan. He told them about Akamaru's passing – It looks like Kasai-san and Anko-sensei are keeping watch over them – that was a relief for them.
Hoki was kneeling next to Sasuke – I have done my best healing all your external wounds – Hoki said as he stopped igniting his greenish-blue chakra in his hands – However, it is as Sandaime-sama said. Your wounds are beyond any of our capabilities. You need to go to a fully trained medical shinobi at the hospital – Hoki said as he turned to look at the Nara boy. Shikamaru's metal mesh had stuck to the burned flesh of his chest. Ino had tried unsuccessfully to remove it, but the slightest move of the mesh caused extreme pain for him.
– Stop looking at us like that, Hoki. I may not look like it, but I'm a medic-nin myself. I know how severe our wounds are – said Shikamaru as he stood up, grunting in pain. Ino helped him stand up.
Hinata stared at Sasuke. His breathing was irregular and heavy. He had several ribs broken, and his rib cage was oppressing his lungs. Naruto had internal injuries that should've made him pass out, yet he seemed to heal faster than anyone else. She had noticed Naruto's extraordinary healing ability during their previous missions. He should've died by frostbite when Haku froze him back in the Battle of the Bridge, yet he had emerged ready to fight within a few minutes. Jiraiya-sama had said it was due to his Uzumaki lineage that he had survived, but there was still something off about that. She then looked at Choji. Anko-sensei had stopped Choji's poisoned wound from spreading before leaving. However, his hand was severely wounded. She and Ino were the least injured among the six rookies. Hinata stood there and knew she needed to focus more on her medical ninjutsu if she wanted to be a reliable asset to her team. She saw in Shikamaru's eyes the same guilt she felt for not being able to heal their comrades.
– Who were those Kusa-nins you all fought? I saw the fight on our way here with my Byakugan, and those two were no ordinary shinobis, and still, you six losing a fight shouldn't be reason enough for the former Hokage to interfere with the exams – Neji said, staring directly at Shikamaru who was walking toward their previous battlefield with Ino's help.
Shikamaru turned his face to meet Neji's eyes. He then looked at Sasuke and Naruto. Sasuke and Shikamaru then turned, looked at Naruto and nodded. The blond boy stood – Jiji ordered us not to say a word about it – Naruto said in a serious tone and a stern look.
Neji looked at Naruto with wonder. It was unusual for the Hokage's son to be so serious. He was known in the village for his outgoing and loud personality – What if some of their comrades return looking for revenge? We need to know what we're up against! – Hoki yelled at the rookies, standing next to Sasuke.
Sasuke looked up and chuckled – afraid? That's good; you should be – Hoki shivered. Sasuke forced a smile. He was terrified to face Orochimaru again, yet he was oddly excited about how strong a shinobi could be now that he had seen firsthand what a Sannin in a weak state could do. He now understood why Tenzo-sensei froze when he appeared out of nowhere in the Land of Waves. He couldn't stop reliving the vision he got with Orochimaru's first killing intent. He had seen how he and his friends died at the hands of the Snake Sannin with ease. He knew that if Orochimaru had wanted to, he could've made that vision a reality.
– The more reason you should tell us! This is beyond us! – Hoki said nervously, looking at Neji, looking for backup. The Hyuga boy sighed.
– Get a grip of yourself, Hoki. I doubt any of their comrades would come back. We're here to protect them from other genin teams – Neji said coldly.
– Neji's right. I guess Kasai-san went hunting down the rest of this group, and I doubt Sandaime-sama would've allowed them to stay if he believed whoever this enemy is would come back – the pale boy, Sai, said with an expressionless face to his teammate. Hoki sighed, resigned – However, to think some genins would force a former Hokage and a former Captain of the ANBU to interfere. They were higher-ranked shinobis who infiltrated – Said's voice made it clear, he wasn't asking, he was making a statement. The rookies frowned but said nothing – To what purpose they would do go through such risky mission, that's the real question – the pale boy continued, but a cold gaze from his teammate, Neji, was enough to make him stop.
Sasuke and Shikamaru looked at them – They're good – they thought.
– What are you looking for? – Neji asked the Nara boy, who continued scrutinizing the battlefield. Everyone else stared at Shikamaru, too. They stared at him with wonder, puzzled. Ino and Choji knew him well enough to know he was analyzing the fight in his head and all the possible scenarios of how things could've been done differently. However, there was something odd in his eyes. They wondered what it could be he was thinking about.
The Nara boy turned and faked a smile – Nothing in particular. I was just staring at what could've been my grave – Hinata and Hoki shivered, but the rest knew the boy was hiding something, yet no one asked. Ino helped Shikamaru return with the rest and sit – We're alive only because that's what he wanted, and even worse, He told sensei that Konoha wouldn't start a war because the Hokage did not know who he could trust. How high has Orochimaru's spy infiltrated within Konoha's command? Damn it! Konoha is fighting a silent war within its own walls! – Shikamaru thought.
Konoha's Hospital: After Hiruzen and Karin left.
Hiruzen and Karin appeared in the hospital's hall. Karin felt dizzy and covered her mouth. Hiruzen patted Karin on the back.
– No worries, child. It's normal to feel sick the first time you experience the Hiraishin no Jutsu – The old man said gently. Minato had used the mark on Hiruzen and a chakra kunai embedded with his chakra that Hiruzen kept to teleport them to the hospital.
Karin didn't know what he meant. She thought it had been a Shunshin no Jutsu, but it seemed she was wrong. Karin was so busy with her dizziness that she hadn't noticed the other people standing in the hall. She then felt someone hugging her tightly.
– You're so beautiful! And look at your hair! It is just like mine, and Lady Mito's – Kushina said as she rubbed Karin's hair.
Karin was dumbfounded. The woman kneeled before her and rubbed her hair. She had red hair like hers, but more importantly, her chakra was similar to hers and her mother's. Who could she be? She felt a strange, comforting warmth she hadn't felt since her mother's passing. Karin finally noticed that behind the red-haired woman stood a tall blond man and a blonde woman with a large breast. She knew who they were. They were legends, after all: Minato Namikaze, Yondaime Hokage of Konohagakure, and Tsunade Senju, the Slug Princess of the Legendary Sannin.
Kushina had joyful tears in her eyes. She let go of Karin and faced her as she cleared the tears from her face – I'm so glad to meet you, Karin. We have so much to talk about – Kushina said as she touched Karin's face gently. Karin stuttered.
– Who are you? Why are you happy to meet me? Why are Yondaime Hokage-sama and Tsunade-sama here? – Karin asked, still trying to make sense of what she was living. Kushina smiled broadly.
– My name is Kushina Uzumaki. I heard you met my son already, right? – Kushina said. She was so excited that she couldn't stop rubbing Karin's hair and stroking her face. Besides, the girl seemed to be okay with that. It was as if she was eager to feel affection.
– Your son? – Karin wondered – That's right. You just gave him one of your scrolls, Karin-chan. Naruto is Kushina's and Minato's son – the old man said, and Karin's jaw dropped – You mean that Naruto is the son of the Hokage? And you're his wife? – Kushina nodded. Kushina stood up and looked at Minato and Tsunade.
– Karin-chan, there is something we would like to discuss with you, if that's okay with you, of course – Minato said as he got closer to Kushina. Karin noticed Kushina, Minato, Tsunade and Hiruzen looked at her with sorrow and sadness, as if they knew about the hell she'd been through and pitied her. She nodded but said no word. Minato smiled kindly as he opened the door of a room.
– Come with me, Karin-chan – Kushina said – Tsunade-sama will make a quick check on you before we talk – Karin nodded and entered the room, followed by Karin. Tsunade, Minato and Hiruzen stayed outside – we'll be right there with you in a minute – said Minato before closing the door of the room. He then turned to talk with Tsunade and Hiruzen.
– Any word from Kasai yet? – Hiruzen asked. Minato nodded – He sent a clone. There was no sign of the genins from Otogakure, and the two Jounin that accompanied Orochimaru-san died – Hiruzen was surprised to hear Kasai had failed to capture them alive – One of them killed his comrade and then killed himself. His technique got Kasai off guard. I think one of them was a Deiton (Mud) Release user – Minato said. Hiruzen stroked his beard
– I see. I thought there were only Deiton users in Iwagakure. What about the genin's instructor? I think her name was Guren – the old man questioned. Minato sighed.
– I sent an ANBU platoon to capture her. She killed two before she was taken down. However, she turned out to be only a clone, a crystal clone – This caught the old man's attention. He pulled the necklace he had taken from the Kusa-boy.
– Could it be? – the man whispered. Minato nodded – I'll leave the crystal possession jutsu to you, Sandaime-sama. How are the autopsies going, Tsunade-sama? – Minato asked.
– Shizune, Nono and Mikoto are still working on that. We'll know more about how Orochimaru's possession jutsu works soon – The blonde kunoichi said. She was biting her thumb. She was upset. Not only has Orochimaru profaned his family's corpses for his experiments, but he also corrupted the purpose of his Granduncle's and Dan's jutsu. The vein on her forehead was pulsing.
Hiruzen looked at his former pupil. He understood her anger and frustration. The old man wanted to comfort her, but he knew he was responsible for Ochimaru. Anything he may have said to her would lack gravitas, given his failure to kill Orochimaru. He looked at Minato and bowed – I take my leave, Yondaime-sama – the old man raised and was ready to leave – wait! You're not coming with us to talk with Karin? – Tsunade asked. Hiruzen raised his head and shook.
– It seems she's unaware of her bloodline. It is best that she hears it from who may be her last relatives – Hiruzen turned to face Tsunade – She has the potential to become a tremendous medical shinobi. She shouldn't be using that technique of hers so carelessly, though; you'll need to train her, Tsunade. I really hope there are more Uzumakis in Kusagakure. Kusagakure is a neutral nation. It would be easy for you and Kushina to establish a relationship with them – The old man said, and Tsunade smiled. She was happy to find another Uzumaki, and she was sure Kushina was more than thrilled with the discovery. The woman hugged her old sensei – Thank you, Jiji – the old man smiled gently. He left after Tsunade let go of him.
Tsunade and Minato entered the room. Kushina was sitting in a chair while Karin was sitting at the bed's edge. Kushina was just sitting there, looking excitedly at Karin, who was getting uncomfortable with Kushina's stare. Tsunade performed a general checkup on Karin. She was in excellent condition, except for her excessive biting scars. Tsunade frowned at the number of bite scars of her arms. After finalizing, Karin sat up again.
– Karin, do you know where your Healing Bite technique comes from? – Tsunade asked.
Karin looked around. She was unsure if she should be talking about it. Her mother had tried to keep her ability a secret for years. One day, her mother decided to help a friend of hers who was severely injured by allowing her to bite her. Her mother's friend healed immediately. A couple of days later, she and her mom were taken before the leader of Kusagakure and forced to live at the hospital ever since, healing badly injured shinobis. Her mother had convinced Kusagakure's high commands to let Karin be by agreeing to heal everyone without complaint. Her mother passed away a couple of years ago, and ever since, she has been forced to take her mother's place. She hated her ability. It was a curse. It had robbed her of her mother. However, for some reason, she felt safe with Kushina-san and Tsunade-sama.
– My mom used to say it was a Kekkei Genkai that only a few members of her Clan were able to use. She said she and I were probably the last users of it – Kushina stood up abruptly and got closer to Karin.
– so, there are more members of your Clan in Kusagakure! Is your mom's hair red like yours? – Kushina asked as she held Karin's hands. She was smiling broadly. Karin's eyes watered. She started playing with her hair. Her expression softened as she remembered her mother.
– Yeah, her hair was as red as mine – Karin's smile was filled with sadness and sorrow – My mom never told me the name of our Clan. She said it was dangerous because we were the last survivors of our Clan, and it was best for me never to know the name – Karin was trying hard to repress her tears. She then told them about how her mother had died. Kushina, Tsunade and Minato were enraged. Kushina wiped Karin's tears.
– Sandaime-sama said you're also an excellent sensor. Is that right? – Kushina asked. Karin's eyes were still red. She blushed when she heard the former Hokage had praised her abilities. She nodded – How advanced are your sensory abilities? – Minato asked, intrigued. Karin stood up. Kushina stepped back to give her space, but Karin walked towards her again and placed her hand on Kushina's belly – You're pregnant, Kushina-san – Kushina, Tsunade and Minato gasped – How did you know? I'm not that far along. My belly still hasn't started to grow – Kushina said, placing her hands on top of Karin's on her belly.
– I knew it the moment I saw you. I sensed a your baby's chakra growing inside you. Something else is inside of you, but it is behind some kind of seal. I can't sense it really well – Kushina quickly stepped back, shocked – I'm sorry, Kushina-san, I didn't mean to disturb you – Karin said, stepping back, too. She seemed ashamed – No need to apologize, my dear. I'm just surprised by your talent – Kushina said. The three adults looked at each other, stunned
– She can sense the Kyubi inside Kushina despite her young age. It looks like she's still unable to see through the seal to discern the source of the foreign chakra she detects. This girl will be able to detect the Kyubi or any other Biju, identifying the jinchurikis in plain sight. She's formidable. With proper training, she might become a better sensor than Kessho – Minato thought. He was beyond surprised. Kushina kneeled before Karin and held her hands.
– You are a unique and talented girl, Karin. Tell me, have you ever heard about Uzushiogakure and the Uzumaki Clan? – Kushina asked in a motherly tone. Karin shook her head – That's what I thought – Kushina said gently. Kushina and Tsunade told Karin the history of Uzushiogakure and its downfall. Karin was shocked to hear about the genocide.
– I'm a pure-blood Uzumaki, and Tsunade-sama here has Uzumaki blood since her grandmother was Mito Uzumaki. Mito-sama was a pure-blood Uzumaki, like me, and one of the strongest – Karin wowed – As we told you, the Uzumaki Clan was feared for their Fuinjutsu Techniques, physical endurance and longevity. On top of that, there were three rare Kekkei Genkais within the Clan. Usually, a few members of the Clan would awaken one of these abilities. There have been a few cases, though, of people who awakened two of these rare and coveted abilities. I've never heard of anyone awakening the three kekkei genkais. Not even Ashina Uzumaki, the strongest Uzumaki in history – Kushina explained. She then stood up. She looked at Minato and Tsunade, and they nodded.
Kushina crossed her arms and raised her index and middle fingers. Golden shining chains emerged from Kushina's back. Karin was in awe. She fell on her back, and Kushina quickly made the chakra chains vanish. She rushed to help Karin stand up.
– I'm sorry, Karin-chan. I didn't mean to scare you. These are the Kongo Fusa (Adamantine Sealing Chains), one of the three kekkei genkais of the Uzumaki Clan. These chains can bind and nullify the chakra of whoever I trap with them. They're also super hard, almost unbreakable. This is the only kekkei genkai I possess. Although I'm currently the best Fuinjutsu User alive among the Five Great Nations – Kushina said it in a not-so-modest tone. Karin's eyes went wide open – You're amazing, Kushina-san – Kushina blushed.
– As for the other two kekkei genkais – Kushina turned to look at Tsunade. She sighed and stepped next to Kushina – Grandma Mito and her older brother, Granduncle Ashina, possessed the same kekkei genkai as Kushina. However, they were the last known Clan members to possess two of the three kekkei genkais. Grandma Mito possessed extremely sharp sensory abilities. She could sense chakra from exceptional distances in great detail. She could find, track and perceive any unusual chakra activity within a radius of several dozens of miles. She could detect any perturbations of someone's chakras flow, allowing her to know if someone was lying or under a genjutsus. On top of all that, she could sense everyone's chakra nature affinity, malice or kindness just by sensing their chakra. This Kekkei Genkai was known as Kagura Shingan (Mind's Eye of the Kagura) – Tsunade paused. She let Karin take the information in. The girl looked in shock. She was starting to understand why she was there. Tsunade took a deep breath and continued.
– My Granduncle, Ashina, possessed the third kekkei genkai. He could heal wounds without waving any seal – Tsunade chuckled. Remembering fond memories – It is funny, you know. My Grandpa, Hashirama Senju, could also heal wounds that way. Senju and Uzumaki are distant blood relatives. So, it is possible my grandfather's technique was related to that. Grandpa Hashirama couldn't heal others, though. However, granduncle Ashina's technique had something different – Tsunade stared at Karin and smiled at her – He could heal others by allowing them to bite him. His chakra had healing properties that could be transferred to others – Karin gasped. She stuttered, trying to say something, but the words didn't come out.
Kushina kneeled again and stroked Karin's face – does that mean that my mom, that I … – Karin muttered. Kushina nodded – yes, Karin-chan. You're an Uzumaki. Our chakra has a unique signature. We knew you were a Uzumaki the moment you entered the village. Your sensor abilities and Healing Bite techniques just confirmed our suspicions – Karin started crying. She couldn't stop. She was so happy that she was not alone in this world. She hugged Kushina. Kushina hugged her back and started to cry, too. Then something hit Karin's mind, and she stepped back from Kushina. Kushina, Tsunade and Minato looked dumbfounded.
– If my mom knew we were Uzumaki, why did she never come to Konoha looking for asylum? She must've known that you, the wife of the Hokage, and you, one of the legendary Sannin, were members of our clan – Kushina and Tsunade looked at each other. It was Tsunade who spoke this time.
– I can't say for sure, Karin, but I guess she feared we would use her and you the same way Kusagakure did. However, I can promise that we would never do that to you. Konoha has the best and the most medical shinobis in the shinobi world – Karin was pondering Tsunade's words – Minato, I mean, Yondaime-sama has something to tell you, too – Tsunade turned to see Minato.
– Karin-chan, I would hate to see you go back to Kusagakure and suffer the same fate as your mother. I want to offer you official asylum here in Konoha and the Land of Fire – Minato said gently, smiling broadly. However, Karin was still unsure of what to do.
– You want me to stay here so I can become your healing machine, just like Kusagakure! – Karin yelled
– On the contrary, Karin-chan. Your Healing Bite technique would remain a secret if you chose to stay. You would never have to use it again. You can have a civilian life if that's what you want – Minato said – really? – Karin asked, still finding it hard to believe. Minato nodded. Karin stayed silent for a long time. Minato, Kushina and Tsunade didn't say a word either. They stared at the girl expectantly. Karin cleared the tears.
– I want to stay – Karin said, and the next second, Kushina hugged her tightly again. After a long hug, they let go – I want to become a medical shinobi, though – Karin said. Tsunade placed her hand on Karin's head – I can help with that. I will train you myself – Karin's eyes lit up – Seriously? You, the Legendary Sannin, will train me? – the excitement in Karin's eyes moved both kunoichis – Of course I will! We're family, after all, aren't we? – Karin blushed. It was too much to process. Family? She never thought she would have a family again. Then, a strike of reality hit her – What about Kusagakure? They won't like it if I stay here in Konoha! Besides, where would I live? I have no money! – Karin's excitement turned into despair. Minato spoke.
– I'll handle Kusagakure. You don't have to worry about that. Regarding where you'll live – Minato was interrupted by Kushina – You'll live with us, of course! I always wanted a daughter! I'm sure Naruto would love to welcome you into our home! – Karin was thunderstruck. She stuttered – You mean that I will – Kushina hugged her – You'll be part of our family! We'll officially adopt you if you want, of course! – Karin started crying again.
Land of Rice, Otogakure: Orochimaru's hideout, a few hours early.
Orochimaru was inside a large room. Sitting on a lotus position and with both hands together, forming the Tiger hand seal. Coiled around his hands was a necklace with a pink crystal and a white snake inside. It was a replica of the necklace Shiore, the Kusa-nin, wore in the Chunin Exams. Orochimaru had his eyes closed, and his black hair floated due to his chakra flow. The room was mostly dark, barely illuminated by a series of candles in the perimeter of the room. Two shinobis stood outside the room. It was the real Guren and Kabuto, Nono's adoptive son.
– How long do you think your crystal will hold? – Kabuto asked Guren. Kabuto was worried about his master. Orochimaru had increased his chakra flow suddenly, and now his chakra was bursting with anger and hatred. Guren gritted her teeth.
– Lord Orochimaru's chakra is too powerful to contain. Besides, this is the first time we have tested this jutsu with a host at such a considerable distance. There are several factors at play: the strength of the host, the amount of chakra he channels through the crystal, and the distance between Orochimaru-sama and the host. I can't tell for sure how long – Guren couldn't finish talking when Orochimaru yelled inside the room.
The necklace around Orochimaru's hands shattered, and the white snake inside the crystal dropped dead. Orochimaru frowned. He burst his chakra so intensively that the candles were blown off. The killing intent was so intense that outside the room, Guren and Kabuto fell to their knees, sweating and gasping – Curse you, Sarutobi-sensei! You stupid geezer! – Orochimaru stood up. He held the remains of the necklace in his hand and threw it away against the walls – I should've known Madara's threat would've forced the old man to take action. I need to adjust my plan – Orochimaru muttered to himself. He crossed the room and opened the door, finding Guren and Kabuto kneeling – Stand up, you two! – Orochimaru commanded. The two shinobis felt their knees weak as they stood up. Orochimaru looked at Kabuto.
Orochimaru was about to speak when Guren gasped and bit her lip – They destroy your clone, I presume – Orochimaru said. Guren nodded as she felt the memories of her clone coming back to her – and well? – Orochimaru's gaze frightened Guren. She gulped and bowed – My clone was destroyed by a group of ANBU corps. It managed to kill two of them before, though – Orochimaru chuckled – Good. What about your mission? Was it successful? – Guren smirked – Yes, Orochimaru-Sama. It looks like my clone managed to fulfill the mission. The preparations for the invasion are in place – Orochimaru didn't seem so pleased. It looks like whatever had happened during his playtime with the genins enraged him. Kabuto gulped. Giving bad news when he was in a bad mood was always dangerous. He felt Orochimaru's penetrating eyes fixed on him
– You're sweating, Kabuto – the Snake Sannin said as he curled his long tongue and licked Kabuto's ear – Spill it out. Are the Raikage and his escorts here yet? – Kabuto gulped again – No, Orochimaru-sama. They should be here soon, though. However – Kabuto stopped for a second and gulped – Zetsu is here. He wants to talk to you, and Kisame-san – Orochimaru coiled his tongue back to his mouth and gritted his teeth. Kisame had been paired with him as partners within the Akatsuki. The Swordsman spent a lot of time in Otogakure between missions and even more lately now that Haku was in the village. The shark-nin had taken Haku and Suigetsu as his pupils. Orochimaru had agreed to let him have them, on the condition that he placed a curse mark on both. Haku had already been marked back in the Battle of the Bridge. In fact, it was Orochimaru's curse mark the only reason Haku had survived from his injuries. If Zetsu was here, it could only mean a message from either Madara or Nagato. He hated following orders from those two. If everything went as planned, he would soon get the power to get rid of them.
Orochimaru entered the room where Zetsu was waiting for him. That room was designated exclusively for Akatsuki meetings. Only Orochimaru and Kisame were allowed to enter. Not even Kabuto and Guren, Orochimaru's most trustworthy lackeys, were allowed inside. Kisame was already there – It was about time. How did your playtime go? – the black Zetsu said in a mocking tone. He had felt Orochimaru's earlier burst of chakra. It surely meant things didn't go as the Sannin expected. Orochimaru said nothing. Black Zetsu cuckled – He's coming – and surely, a few seconds later, three projections appeared next to Zetsu.
The projections seemed to flicker. Only the eyes of the figures were clearly visible. One of them had purple eyes with six concentric circles, the most powerful dojutsu, the Rinnegan, its user was a self-proclaimed God who called himself Pain. Orochimaru had discovered not long ago after years of efforts that his real identity was Nagato, an Uzumaki descendant from Amegakure, and Jiraiya's orphan pupil from the Second Great War. Nagato used some kind of jutsu to control a body and transfer his Rinnegan. He had been trying to emulate that jutsu with the help of Guren's crystal that could store huge amounts of chakra, and the basic principle of Dan's Spirit Transformation Technique developed by Nidaime Hokage. One of the other shadows belonged to Konan, Pain's right hand, and Jiraiya's last pupil. Orochimaru cursed the luck of his former teammate to find the most talented shinobis. If he had been the one to train Nagato, he would've stolen his eyes and become the strongest shinobi alive. The last one was a former fellow citizen of Orochimaru, and a partner in his research, Hiruko Shigaraki.
– There has been a change of plans – Pain said plainly – Kisame, you and your new pupils, along with Hiruko, shall leave to Kirigakure – Kisame was shocked to hear that. He hadn't been in his village since he deserted. It looked like it was Hiruko's first-time hearing this, too. Orochimaru didn't seem to like the idea. He was counting on Hiruko's help in Konoha's siege. Now that he had discovered his former sensei hadn't lost his strength it was imperative to have a Plan B, and Hiruko was his Plan B. The current situation complicated his plans.
– Hiruko, Urasue and I are supposed to lead the attack on Konoha with Kumogakure. Why are you sending him to Kirigakure? – Orochimaru asked. Hiruko turned to face Pain; he had been waiting for his revenge on Konoha and Hiruzen for ordering his assassination for years.
– Your plan with Hiruko relies on the presence of his former subject of experiments, Kaede Shigaraki. Based on the intel from your spies in Konoha, the Counselors and a group of ANBU were sent on a secret mission. Zetsu tracked them down and found them. The Counselors, along with six ANBU, Kaede among them, are in Kirigakure. They intend to help a rebellious group to siege power from the Fourth Mizukage who plans to ally with Kumogakure to attack Konoha. We must not let that happen – Pain explained. Kisame chuckled.
– Who are the other ANBUs accompanying the Counselors? – Hiruko asked, evidently intrigued. Zetsu spoke this time – Itachi and Shisui Uchiha, Mukai Hyuga, Tenzo Senju and Yoji Aburame – Hiruko chuckled – So many fine shinobis I can add to my collection. I'm sorry, Orochimaru, but it seems that this works just fine for me. This will be fun – Hiruko's flickering shadow said.
Orochimaru gritted his teeth. He knew Hiruko, like him, was after Tenzo. He had just discovered that Tsunade's adoptive son had turned out to be one of his lab rats. The only wielder of the Mokuton besides Hashirama and Madara. How Madara had obtained the Mokuton was still a mystery for Orochimaru. He would've preferred to keep the discovery for himself, but Kisame informed Pain about it. Shisui and Itachi were the most proficient Uchihas and, until recently, Orochimaru's main targets for his new body before finding out Nagato had Uzumaki lineage. That's when he decided Naruto was his best option to obtain the definitive dojutsu.
– You will offer your help to Yagura to eliminate the rebellion. Your mission is to ensure that the rebellion dies, and Yagura stays in power – Konan said, looking at Kisame.
– It's going to be hard to convince Haku-kun to fight alongside Mizukage-sama. He learned to hate him by Zabuza's teachings. Besides, I thought Biju's are our target. Aren't we supposed to get the Sanbi that's inside Mizukage-sama? – Kisame said as he rubbed his nape, annoyed. Things were going to get heated up with Haku.
– We'll get the Sanbi in due time, until then, we must keep Yagura in power, so the Fourth Shinobi War unfolds as planned. You can promise your pupil the chance to take Yagura's life when the time comes – Pain said coldly to Kisame. He chuckled – I guess that'll do it. When are we leaving? – the swordsman questioned – Tomorrow. That's all. You're all dismissed – without saying more, Pain broke his jutsu and the three projections disappeared. Zetsu disappeared on the floor next. Orochimaru burst his chakra in anger.
– It looks like you'll have to take on your previous sensei on your own, Orochimaru-san. You know Urasue's agenda very well, and I doubt you can count on her – said Kisame in a mocking tone as he left the room. Orochimaru stayed there for a while, thinking of a way to kill his former sensei now that things had gotten complicated. He was there, alone, for a long time when he started laughing maniacally – This will be your end, Sarutobi-sensei. I'll exploit your greatest weakness – Orochimaru said to himself. He then turned and left the room. He had another meeting to attend.
Amegakure: Tallest Tower of the village
Pain broke his Gentoshin no jutsu (Magic Lantern Body technique). The orange-haired man with the distinctive Rinnegan stood at the edge of the tower's opening, looking at the rain pouring down. He turned around. Konan, his right-hand old friend, stood behind him. A man with an orange mask and a long black mane almost reaching his knees stood in the darkness at the back of the room.
– It is done – said Pain coldly as he walked to stand beside Konan.
– Good. I'll make sure Yagura accepts the offer of help. It is crucial to avoid any member of the Akatsuki to discover the Mizukage is under our control – Madara said as he stepped out of the darkness.
Konan loathed the man, but she concealed it well. Her expression remained unfazed. Madara knew Orochimaru would eventually figure out the truth about Yagura and Kirigakure if he hadn't already. However, the Sannin's agenda aligned with theirs so far and had proven useful for his plans. However, he needed to prevent either Hiruko or Orochimaru from getting a grip on his prize – This is my opportunity to get Shisui's eyes once and for all. With his Sharingan, I'll bend Konoha and Nagato to my will – Madara thought.
– I still don't get the need for this war. Our targets are the Bijuus. This war will turn our village into a battleground as in the past – Konan reproached, hoping to get some support from Pain. They both had experienced the hell of the war before. She didn't want the children of her village to go through the same hell as they did. She looked at Pain, but he remained mute.
– If we go openly after the Bijus, we'll drag the attention of the Five Great Nations to us, and it would be harder to get the nine Bijus. With this war, we'll let them fight and kill each other until the war is at its peak and the villages are weakened. That's when we'll collect the bijus. The Sanbi and Rokubi are in our possession for as long as we keep Kirigakure under our control. And soon, once we help Suien succeed in his Coup d'etat, we'll get Takigakure and the Nanabi in our hands, too – Madara knew he needed to force Konoha, and especially, his former sensei, Minato, to focus on the war and defending the village. That way, he could act more freely.
– As for the safety of your village, I myself will help keep Amegakure safe. We're controlling this war, after all. We can control where the battlefield takes place, too – Madara said, getting closer to Pain, who finally spoke.
– We can keep our village safe ourselves – Pain said with authority. Konan smirked lightly. Madara chuckled.
– You're Akatsuki's greatest asset. The world must not find out about you. The Five Great Nations still believe Hanzo the Salamander is the leader of Amegakure. Konoha's invitation to the Chunin exams addressed to him is proof of that – Madara said as thunder illuminated the room, making his crimson red eye shine.
– I have a solution for that – Pain said as he approached the wall at the back. He placed his hand on it, and the wall split open. Madara was intrigued. Pain and Konan walked in, and he followed. The three shinobis walked through a dark corridor until they reached a chamber with seven pods. One of the pods was empty, while the other six had bodies resting on them. Each pod was connected to the wall via pipes and wires. The pods had sliding covers engraved with the symbol of Amegakure. Five of the six bodies wore the distinctive black cloak with red clouds of the Akatsuki. The last one, however, whore regular clothes from an Amegakure shinobi. The faces of the bodies were concealed by the pods' covers.
– So here is where you store your six paths, huh? What about this one? – Madara said as he walked past the six pods on the sides of the walls toward the seventh at the back of the chamber. Konan frowned as she approached the seventh pod, following Pain closely.
Pain placed his hand on the cover, and it slid up, revealing the man's face. The body opened its eyes and stood up, revealing the Rinnegan. Madara noticed that the seventh body didn't have any piercing on the face or visible at all.
– You kept his body after all this time? – Madara said, laughing – Why didn't you dye this one's hair orange like the others? And what about the black-rod piercings? – the Uchiha asked as he stared at the former leader of Amegakure, Hanzo the Salamander, standing before him.
– The six paths have orange hair to honor Yahiko's legacy. This man will never be part of the six paths of Pain – Pain said while Hanzo removed his flak jacket, revealing black rods on his chest, stomach and biceps – there are a few more rods on his legs – said Pain as Hanzo put on the flak jacket again. Madara noticed Konan didn't seem to like the idea of having Hanzo's body walking around with Pain's Rinnegan.
– Hanzo's body has enough rods for me to control him and use ninjutsu through him. However, it does not have enough to use the abilities of the six paths – Pain continued explaining – According to Orochimaru, Jiraiya-sensei believes the three of us died at the hands of Hanzo. It wouldn't be a surprise for him if Hanzo appears wielding my Rinnegan. For the shinobi world, Hanzo the Salamander will continue being the leader of Amegakure – Pain concluded. Madara noticed that even Pain's voice got upset at the sight of Hanzo. He chuckled.
– This is perfect. You made a good call, keeping Hanzo's body all these years. But what about his summoning? – Madara asked
– Hanzo's blood still runs through his body. I have Ibuse under a genjutsu; the salamander will respond to the kuchiyose until Hanzo's blood runs out – Pain explained
– This is a dead body reanimated by Pain's chakra. However, it is still a corpse. It won't regenerate new blood. Once the corpse is out of blood, it will be impossible to summon Ibuse. This charade may come to an end when the Five Great Nations realize Hanzo restraints himself from using his distinctive summoning – Konan pointed out. She still hated the idea of using Hanzo's body and wanted to find a reasonable reason to avoid using him. Madara stayed silent as he stared at Konan. This woman was annoying. He needed to find a way to get rid of her.
– It shouldn't matter. No one would suspect he stopped using his summoning with all the might of the Rinnegan at his disposal. Anyway, that's a problem for later. I'm leaving now. There are matters to attend to in the Land of Woods – Madara said as his body got sucked into the space.
Hanzo's reanimated corpse returned to the pod. Nagato couldn't stand the sight of the man he once admired and looked up to, the murderer of his best friend. Konan stared at Pain, engrossed in her thoughts. She couldn't help thinking about Yahiko. She longed for better days as war approached. War had brought Nagato, Yahiko and She together, but it also had torn them apart. It had broken Nagato to his core. Madara had exploited Nagato's kindness and naivety to use him for his own interests. If only Jiraiya-sensei hadn't left them. If only Hanzo hadn't allied with that man called Danzo and betrayed them. If only Yahiko hadn't died. Her thoughts were cast away as Nagato's voice came from Yahiko's body.
– Konan, inform every single citizen that Hanzo the Salamander is back as my herald and that speaking my name is forbidden from now on – Konan simply nodded, and her body turned into sheets of paper that folded themselves turning into origami butterflies. The swarm flew through the hall back to the balcony. The rain stopped abruptly as the swarm of origami butterflies left the building and spread all over the city.
Takigakure: Border with Kusagakure.
Suien and Suika stood atop a hill, at which base stood a considerable-sized army of rebels from Takigakure who opposed Hisen. Suien smiled at the sight. In normal circumstances, the size of this army wouldn't stand a chance against the number of shinobis that still supported Hisen and his regime. However, with the Land of Woods's support and the support of those two men, his victory was guaranteed. He turned to look at the two men standing behind him and Suika. He was still shocked to discover that THAT man was still alive. The two men wore black cloaks with red clouds.
One was a very tall, tan-skinned man with pupil-less green irises eyes and a red sclera. He wore a grey hood covering his hair and a black mask covering half his face. He wore a Takigakure forehead protector with a scratch in the middle and greyish-blue pants and standard shinobi sandals. His fingernails were painted brown, and he wore a ring with the kanji "north" on his left hand's middle finger. The second man was a little shorter and fair-skinned. He had medium-length purplish-grey hair slicked back and purple eyes. His cloak was half open, revealing his chest and part of his stomach, as he wore no shirt under the cloak. He had a Yugakure forehead protector scratched in the middle, tied around his neck, and a weird amulet. He wore pants and sandals similar to those of his teammate. His nails were painted green, and his ring had the kanji for "south" engraved. He had a triple-bladed scythe tied on his back.
Suien, followed by Suika, approached the two shinobis. Suien couldn't take his eyes off the tallest man.
– I heard legends about you when I was a child, Kakuzu-dono. I never thought you survived your battle against Shodaime Hokage, and you haven't aged – Suien desired to obtain the secret of Kakuzu's immortality. There were rumors of an ancient kinjutsu from Takigakure that granted immortality. The means to achieve it were unclear, but the last record of this jutsu was during Kakuzu's era. It was said that the man stole it before abandoning the village. He had remained incognito all those years, so everyone thought the existence of such kinjutsu was a lie. He now knew it was real and effective.
– Yeah, yeah, very impressive. He got his ass kicked by Shinobi no Kami and became an immortal greedy dickhead. Let's cut to the chase. When are we going to start the slaughter? Jashin-sama demands sacrifices! – Suika looked at the man with curiosity.
– Be quiet, Hidan. We're here to do business – Kakuzu said as he stepped forward, and Hidan grunted in annoyance – Do you understand our terms? – Kakuzu's sole presence and voice were menacing enough to make Suika step back. Suien gulped and nodded – After we deliver you Takigakure, you'll pay our share, which includes the Nanabi's Jinchuriki – Kakuzu explained. Suien gritted his teeth.
– You shall have that cursed girl and the money for your services once Hisen lays dead at my feet, and Takigakure is mine – Suien said as he turned to see Hidan – It looks like your friend is eager to start the butcher. Shall we begin? – This made Hidan smile broadly and lusty.
– We set to Takigakure at dawn and shall arrive within two days. We'll strike Takigakure from the west, and the Land of Woods army shall join us in the siege from the east – Kakuzu said, to Hidan's joy. Kakuzo had lived through the three great wars, and he was sure, without a doubt, that the one that was to come would be the bloodiest of them all.
Kakuzu, Hidan, Suien and Suika stood atop the hill, watching the army march towards their target. This would be the first strike of the war, and with the pressure of an imminent invasion, Konoha and Suna would be too busy to realize a minor village like Takigakure was under siege.
Ishigakure: Chambers of the head of the village
Ishigakure was a small country between the Lands of Earth and Wind. The country also shared borders with the Land of Iron and Amegakure. Though small, Ishigakure had produced many proficient shinobis. Its leader was Kajura, a man who possessed the Jiton (Magnet) Release, whose clan was believed to be related to the Sandaime Kazekage's. His two greatest generals were the Konjiki Twins, Etoro, who possessed the Yoton (Lava) Release, and Metoro, who possessed the Koton (Steel) Release. Kajura and his two generals sat at the end of a large stone table. At the other end of the table, two Akatsuki men stood.
Kajura was a middle-aged, ripped man with dark brown short hair, short beard and green eyes. He wore a brown and white high-collared robe with a dark turtleneck long-sleeved shirt, long black pants, shinobi sandals and gloves. He had his forehead protector tied around his left arm.
The twins looked completely identical and even wore the same clothes. This was a tactical way to confuse their enemies, making it harder for their adversaries to know which one was the Lava or the Steel release user. They were lean-muscled young men with messy black hair that sweeps down on their pale skin and intense blue eyes. They wore black pants with a white robe. Underneath the white robe they wore dark blue long shirts and fingerless gloves. Like their leader, they wore their forehead protectors tied around their left arms.
One of the Akatsuki wore a straw hat with a small bell hanging from the side. He looked like a short, disfigured man since his legs and arms couldn't be seen below the cloak. The man was all in fours and used the cloak to cover his entire body. He wore a back long face mask that covered his face. The man was Sasori of the Red Sand, disguised inside his puppet Hiruko. The other Akatsuki wore long blond hair drawn into a half ponytail with the rest of his hair hanging freely and a bang of hair hanging over his left eye. His eyes were light blue. He wore a scope on his left eye. He had a mouth on each of his palms. His nails were painted black, and his ring had the "west" kanji engraved.
– The preparations for the invasion are going smoothly, Sasori-san. We'll strike within a month when the Kazekage is out for the Chunin Exams in Konoha. However, … – Kajura said, tapping his fingers on the stone table. Sasori raised his head to look at the leader of Ishigakure. Deidara smirked.
– However? – Sasori said with a mechanical voice and a threatening tone – Speak your mind, Kajura – Etoro and Metoro took a fighting stand as they felt the killing intent of the puppet master. Kajura raised his hand and ordered them to stand down. The leader of the small village stared at Sasori and Deidara with mistrust.
– Raikage-dono assured us that Tsuchikage-dono and Iwagakure would be part of the siege on Sunagakure, yet … – Kajura made another pause and stared directly at Deidara – We haven't received confirmation from Onoki-dono. Our army is not big enough to take on one of the Five Great Nations on our own – Deidara had an annoyed face after Kajura mentioned the Tsuchikage.
Sasori knew the Tsuchikage was being hesitant about joining the war. Based on Deidara's input, it seemed the old stubborn Tsuchikage didn't like the idea of an alliance with Kirigakure. If there were a village the Tsuchikage hated more than Konoha, that would be Kirigakure. He held a grudge against them for his sensei's death, the Second Tsuchikage, Mu.
– We're better off without that cranky geezer, trust me – Deidara said, annoyed. This made Kajura frown, and Sasori gave Deidara a reprimanding look.
– What do you mean by that, Deidara? – Kajura said, standing up. Deidara knew at that moment he had screwed up. Master Sasori would be infuriated.
– Pay no attention to this attempt of an artist, Kajura – Deidara was about to argue, but Sasori's puppet's iron scorpion tail emerged from below his cloak and pointed right to Deidara's neck. The blond shinobi grunted – I told you already, Kajura, this is a war like no other. In the previous wars, the small villages became the battleground for the Five Great Nations. This time, most of the small villages have come together to eradicate Konoha and Sunagakure. We'll bring the war to them. Tanigakure, Kusagakure, Ishigakure, Takigakure, Shimogakure, Yamagakure, Otogakure, the Prajna Group, Kumogakure, and Kirigakure. Konoha and Sunagakure stand no chance against this allied army. Even if Iwagakure decides to remain neutral, it wouldn't make a difference in this war's outcome – Sasori said. Though he accounted Takigakure as part of the alliance, it was not entirely true. However, he had no doubt that Kakuzu and Hidan with the help of Urasue's army would succeed in taking control over Takigakure before the siege on Konoha and Sunagakure.
Kajura still had doubts, but this war was the opportunity for small villages like his to get revenge on the Five Great Nations. Once Konoha and Suna had been destroyed, Iwa, Kumo and Kiri would be next. He walked past his generals and stood before the two Akatsuki.
– It's time for a new order in this shinobi world, Sasori-san. I understand your motivation against Konoha after what happened in the Second Great War. But are you ready to go against your own village? Ready to kill your last living family? I heard Chiyo-dono and Ebisu-dono remain the main counselors and strategists for the Kazekage – Sasori's chakra burst worse than Deidara had ever seen. Sasori's scorpion tail coiled around Kajura faster than any of the other presents could react.
– Do not test your luck, Kajura. I'm a man you shouldn't tease – Kajura smirked as his body turned into iron sand, slipping through the iron tail and regrouping back in his chair at the end of the table. The iron sand reformed into Kajura, who was now sitting on his chair.
– I think you and I will get along just great, Sasori-san – Kajura said as he made a small amount of iron sand spin around his hand. Sasori was shocked – That's Sandaime Kazekage's technique. This man will be a nice addition to my collection. I will kill him myself once he's served his purpose – Sasori thought.
Land of Woods: Daimyo's Castle.
Madara was using a jutsu to hide in the walls of a large dark room. He had suppressed his chakra so as not to be detected. Zetsu had arrived just a few seconds after him. The venus-flytrap Shinobi stood in the middle of the room, not muttering a word. A few moments later, the room door opened, and a woman walked in. The woman was a tall, fair-skinned kunoichi with red eyes. She was a voluptuous, gorgeous woman. She wore crimson red lipstick, and her long-sharped nails were painted in a similar tone. The ring on her right hand had the "hell" kanji in it. Her dark brown hair was tied in a short ponytail with two Japanese hair pins, and bangs covered most of her forehead. She wore a white and crimson-violet pattern kimono, though she kept the right sleeve hanging on the side, revealing the blue kosode she wore underneath the kimono. She wore white tabi socks with wooden sandals and a metallic whip with a kunai-shaped tip tied to her waist.
– What took you so long, Urasue? – Black Zetsu questioned. The gorgeous kunoichi ignored the comment.
– Running a whole country and planning an invasion is not an easy task, you know – said Urasue in a mocking tone as she sat in a seductive way in a chair.
– It looks like you're enjoying yourself as ruler of the Land of Woods – the White Zetsu said. Urasue smiled candidly – You must make sure your husband, Yamaoko Madoka, remains trapped in the genjutsu – Black Zetsu continued. Urasue burst into laughter.
– I can have the young Daimyo eating out of my hand without the need for genjutsu. Yamaoko is a handsome man, at least. He entertains me well – the kunoichi said shamelessly.
– Is that why you killed his father, your former husband? – White Zetsu asked. Urasue licked her upper lip with a mischievous look.
– Azusa-dono was an old, disgusting man. He was no fun. If I had to become the Daimyo's wife to subdue the Land of Woods under our control, the least I could ask for was a young man who could serve me well in my needs – the woman said as she slid her hand from her neck through her chest, stomach and legs.
– Enough of this game, Urasue. Pain needs an update. What's the status? – the Black Zetsu interrupted. Urasue rolled her eyes. There was no one in Akatsuki with a decent sense of humor. She straightened up in the chair.
– Things are going as planned. A portion of the army is already on its way to Takigakure. They should arrive in time to join Kakuzu and Hidan. Another portion will be sent to join Orochimaru's troops for Konoha's assault – The woman said as she stood up to look at the window of the room. The Daimyo's castle was atop a high mountain. She could see the entire city from there; far away, she could see her new army getting ready for war. She smiled with excitement.
– What about Kazuma and the Prajna Group shinobis that Konoha captured? – Black Zetsu questioned. Urasue turned around to look at her fellow Akatsuki.
– Kazuma and I will lead the troops that will be sent to Konoha. He wants revenge on his old partners from the Twelve Guardian Ninja, Asuma Sarutobi and Chiriku. Still, his major motivation is to destroy Konoha and the Hokage so the Land of Fire can have a ruling system like the Land of Woods' with only one "King" and I will get to kill that old war hawk who led the massacre of my group years ago, that bastard of Danzo Shimura while Orochimaru deals with his former sensei – Urasue said as she slid her index and middle finger through cleavage – Kazuma… He's handsome and powerful. I will take him as my husband once Yamaoko is no longer needed – Urasue was a libidinous woman. Konan always thought of her as the female version of Jiraiya-sensei, though her luck with men was way better than her sensei's with women.
– Focus, woman! You let Kazuma charm you into sending that group of kunoichis after Hiruzen, and they got captured. You assured Pain those kunoichis would die before letting themselves get captured. Ibiki and Inoichi may get information about our plan from them – Black Zetsu shouted. Urasue frowned and gritted her teeth. She took her whip and swung it as she turned. The sharpened tip of the whip scratched the wooden floor at the base of Zetsu's feet.
– If there is someone to blame for that, it is Orochimaru. He assured us that his former sensei was on the verge of death from cancer – the woman said, enraged as she crossed the room to stand before Zetsu, rolling up her whip – Besides, I placed a seal on every Shinobi from the Land of Woods, a useful trick I learned from that stupid Danzo and his Root members. Their minds are locked. If someone tries to read their mind, it will be activated, burning their brains and killing them on the spot. The seal is similar to that the Root uses with its members. Not even Inoichi Yamanaka or Ibiki Morino would be able to get information from them. So, stop complaining and tell Pain if he wants to talk to me, he can do it in person. Or is it that Konan feels threatened by me that she won't let our handsome leader visit me? – Urasue went from irrational rage to playing the victim in the blink of an eye. Watching Urasue's sudden changes of personality annoyed Black Zetsu, while White Zetsu seemed to be amused, being a creature with double and opposite personalities himself.
Madara watched everything from within the wall. He knew Urasue was a formidable shinobi. He had discovered her shortly after his defeat against his sensei, Minato, twelve years ago, on his way back to the Mountain's Graveyard. However, he knew Urasue had no sense of loyalty and letting her spend so much time with Kazuma could be counterproductive. He needed to keep those two watched. She was proficient enough in genjutsus and fuinjutsu for someone who wasn't a Uzumaki or Uchiha. Pain had recruited her under his orders, and it was his responsibility to keep her at bay. He had kept them both alive since Kazuma's hatred against Konoha and Urasue's attraction to him along her desire of revenge on Danzo and the Root had been helpful in getting the Land of Woods under his control for years without raising suspicions. Urasue was the sole survivor of the original Prajna Group. She had escaped the massacre of her group ordered by the former Hokage. With Akatsuki's help, she became the new wife of the former Daimyo and reformed the Prajna Group. After a few years, the Daimyo's son was perturbed by his father's actions. So Urasue decided to get a new husband. Years after that, a man arrived at the Land of Woods and introduced himself as Furido. He said he was interested in the Prajna Group and learning how the Land of Woods operated without a "Kage" for the military. Kazuma ignored the fact that the current and former Daimyo's were under Urasue's genjutsu. He didn't find it hard to believe that the son of the former Daimyo had decided to take his former stepmother as wife given her beauty and youth. For him, it made sense that the Daimyo's had decided to marry a member of the military force to show his commitment to his country. Instead of having a second "King" he ruled with a "Queen" by his side. Eventually, Urasue discovered Furido was no other than Kazuma, a former member of the Twelve Guardian Ninja who shared the ideology of the original Prajna Group, so Urasue took him in and named him her general. She knew he would be useful for Konoha's downfall.
Madara heard what he needed and vanished into his dimension.
Kamui's Dimension.
The dimension created by Obito's jutsu was composed of an innumerable amount of randomly arranged and differently sized rectangular prisms amongst a dark and seemingly endless void. Madara sat at the edge of one of the prisms. He placed his hand on his mask, where his left eye opening should be.
– We'll be together soon, Rin. In my perfect utopia, you shall live again, and those who let you die shall suffer for eternity in a living hell. Minato-sensei and Kakashi will pay for your death. With this war, I shall be one step closer to achieving my dream. You just wait a little longer – Obito said as he stared at the emptiness of his dimension.
Konoha: Woods on the outskirts of the village.
A mysterious Konoha Jounin walked through the forest. It was past midnight, and only the moonlight that leaked through the treetops illuminated the path ahead. He was outside the boundaries of the inner barrier and far away from the Village. He was getting closer to the location Orochimaru-sama had convened. After wandering for a while in the forest, near the route toward the Land of Rice, he finally saw what he was looking for: the Sound Village symbol engraved on the bark of a tall tree. The symbol had been carved with a kunai. The man pulled his kunai as he kneeled. He dug at the tree's base until he found a huge pink crystal with a seal tag. The Jounin recognized the tag; it was the same concealing seal tags the Root used to use in some rooms of their HQ to prevent the Byakugan from seeing through. The man inspected the crystal; a medium-sized light-brown snake was petrified inside. The man removed the seal tag as he was certain the Barrier Team was no longer looking for any trace of the woman and then proceeded to break the crystal carefully, releasing the snake inside.
The snake quickly slithered toward him and rose, growing in size as it paired its eyes with the man's. She had honey-brown eyes and wore a golden ring around her body with a yellow orb at the center, which had the kanji for the Ryuchi Cave engraved.
– So, you're one of Orochimaru's spies, huh? – the snake said in a snarky tone.
– I'm not just a mere spy – the man replied, infuriated and annoyed by the snake's tone – And who are you supposed to be? – The man asked, irritated. The snake laughed before regurgitating a large scroll. The man looked at the scroll covered in the snake's saliva with disgust and disbelief. The scroll seemed to be bigger than the snake itself.
– What are you waiting for, boy? Pick it up! – the snake urged. The man groaned as he cleaned the saliva from the scroll and opened it. He extended the scroll on the ground.
– I guess you know how to sign a Summoning Contract, don't you? – the snake said as she slithered through the man's leg, up to his side and shoulder too fast for the man to react. She then sissed in her ear – As for who I am, I'm Daija, guardian of the forbidden scrolls of the Ryuchi Cave and most trust-worthy servant of the mighty White Snake Sage, Hebimaru-sama! So, watch your tongue when you talk to me, boy – Daija revealed her long, poisonous fangs.
The man knew better and decided not to insult the snake further. Daija must be a powerful snake If she truly was the Snake Sage's right hand. The man said nothing and waited until the snake closed her snout and slithered down his body. He then bit his thumb, making it bleed. He covered his right hand's fingertips with the blood, wrote his name on the scroll and placed his hand on the scroll, leaving the marks of his fingertips on the contract. The man stared at the two names right next to his. These names were very well known in the entire Village. Right next to his just recently signed name was Anko Mitarashi's, and next to hers was her former sensei's, Orochimaru.
The scroll closed itself, and then Daija swallowed it.
– Does this mean I can summon you anytime now? – the man asked as he cleaned the blood from his fingertips. The snake frowned.
– Only Orochimaru is strong enough to do so, boy – she stared at the Jounin for a few seconds – but I'll respond to your summoning on the day of the siege so that everything goes as planned – Daija said as she rose. The man had to stand up to meet Daija's eyes – You must be strong if Orochimaru asked Hebimaru-sama to allow you to sign the contract. I'm looking forward to seeing what you're capable of. As for who'll become your personal summoning, boy, that's something don't even I know. When you perform the summoning jutsu, one of the snakes from the Ryuchi Cave will respond to your call. The snake that responds to your call will be that whose chakra syncs and resonates best with yours. It will take some time before you can decide willingly who to summon. However, you must not perform the summoning contract, not once, until the day of the invasion. Is that clear? – Daija said in a threatening tone. The man grinned, too pleased with himself, and nodded. After that, Daija vanished in a cloud of smoke. The man destroyed the Otogakure symbol from the tree, the remnants of the crystal that kept Daija petrified and the seal tag before returning to Konoha.
Notes:
Kajura, Etaro and Metoro are characters from Gaara Hiden novel. They're mercenaries from Ishigakure. I decided to have them as leader, and generals in this Fanfic. Their Kekkei Genkais are also from the novel.
The Great Toad Sage's name is Gamamaru. Gama means toad and MARU is added in Japanese when a word is used as a name, like Gamamaru, Orochimaru, Konohamaru, etc. So, following the same model, for the White Snake Sage I used the name Hebimaru. Hebi - snake. Although I'm not sure if it is applicable for feminine names, I'll keep it this way, nonetheless.
Tanigakure: Hidden Village in the Valleys. Leader: Victor (Character from Boruto)
Shimogakure: Hidden Village in the Frost. Leader: Boro (Character from Boruto)
Yamagakure: Hidden Village in the Mountains. Leader: Genno (Character from Naruto's Filler chapters)
Kusagakure: Hidden Village in the Grass. Leader: Mujo (Character from Boruto)
Akatsuki members:
Pain: Ring "Zero" Amegakure
Konan: Ring "Infinity" Amegakure
Orochimaru: Ring "Sky" Konoha
Kisame: Ring "Sea" Kirigakure
Kakuzu: Ring "North" Takigakure
Hidan: Ring "South" Yugakure
Sasori: Ring "East" Sunagakure
Deidara: Ring "West" Iwagakure
Hiruko: Ring "Heaven" Konoha
Urasue: Ring "Hell" Prajna Group
Zetsu: Ring "Earth"
At the beginning it looked like the rings were important since "Tobi" was eager to recover Sasori's ring, and I think they mentioned they need to recover Orochimaru's. However, in the end, the rings did nothing at all. I plan to give the ring some use so I changed some of the "titles" of the rings.