Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto...or is it still called Naruto? I heard the manga was being renamed to SHARINGAN! The Misadventures of the Uchiha clan!
Author's Note: First off, I apologize for taking such a long time to update. School has been a total bitch and the current bad state of the U.S. economy only doubles my work load so I've been really really busy...Anyways, some of you may notice that I changed the summary from the original and the reason behind it was because, after looking at my outline I feel that the new summary would better suit the story. Other than that I just hope you like the latest chapter and the second to last arc of the story!
"Jutsu" means Jutsu name
"Inner Sakura/Kyuubi" means Inner Sakura or Kyuubi speaking
"Inner Thoughts/Flashback/Alternate Dimension" means Inner Thoughts of a person or a Flashback or Alternate Dimension when stated
Definitions can be found at the bottom.
Ch. 16: When Everything Starts to Fall Apart
The sound of wood cracking and splintering could be heard loudly as the Godaime slammed her clenched fists onto her desk. The loud sound easily startled the other occupants in the room and caused them to immediately get up.
Shizune got up off her chair from her assistants desk and tightly clenched her jaw from dropping as she had a fearful expression on her face as she saw the angry (more than usual) look on the Hokage's face. Jiraiya, who had previously been napping on the couch, got up off the floor and looked at his former teammate.
Tsunade was just staring at the message that was delivered to her a few minutes earlier. She couldn't believe what was written on it, and it had been her third time reading. There was a prolonged silence in the room and caused an uncomfortable atmosphere for Jiraiya.
He was about to speak up until Tsunade looked up from her desk and pointed at her assistant. "Shizune, I want you to immediately go to the jounin lounge and get Hatake Kakashi. Tell him it's urgent news and top priority. There can be absolutely no delay whatsoever!"
Noting the serious expression on her master's face, Shizune didn't hesitate to quickly leave the room and get the copy ninja. As the sound of the door opening and slamming shut was done, Tsunade leaned back into her chair as she closed her eyes and began to rub her temples vigorously in attempt to stop the impending headache from coming.
Jiraiya being one not to be left out of the loop, as well as the few people to ever bother the Hokage when she was in a bad mood spoke up. "Tsunade, since I am not one to read minds, would you like to enlighten me on what has gotten you so upset?"
Tsunade opened her eyes and looked up at the toad sage. She took a deep sigh before speaking. "It's a message from Sunagakure. The Godaime Kazekage has requested our immediate assistance with double S-ranked priority..."
Jiraiya's eyes opened wide with surprise at the mention of double S-rank. Those type of missions were only administered during war time or a state of emergency. Whatever problem Suna was having must have been a serious one because double S-ranks didn't come cheap and was sure to cost a hefty sum.
"Tsunade, what is the dealing of the message? Why has the Kazekage requested such a high request?" he asked.
Tsunade picked up the paper from her desk and skimmed it over. "The Kazekage has requested us to send as many top shinobi we can no matter the cost. There is a projected assassination attempt on the Kazekage's live as it is raining in Sunagakure today. They have determined it is no coincidence since it doesn't rain there very often, and it wasn't projected to do so at all"
Jiraiya was immediately confused by the information he was given. He wasn't sure what rain had to do with assassination attempts. Tsunade noted his confused expression and took a deep breath before speaking again. "This is going to sound really awkward and confusing so your going to have to bear with me while I explain the situation"
The white haired sannin gave a complacent nod and crossed his arms as he awaited what she had to say. Tsunade sighed before speaking. "Around three weeks ago the Mizukage was found dead in his office. There had been no sign of struggle and the body was found to be severely mutilated"
Jiraiya's jaw dropped to the floor after hearing those words. He was about to say something, but Tsunade put up her left hand signaling him to stop. "Hold on a second, there is more I have to explain"
Jiraiya closed his mouth and nodded as Tsunade continued. "Upon finding the body of the Mizukage, the family was looked for to be notified. Unfortunately, all of the family members were found dead and in no better condition then the Mizukage himself. All of his relatives were slaughtered including every man, woman, and child"
"How could this happen? How is it possible? Who or what could do such a thing!" yelled Jiraiya.
Tsunade shook her head. "There is no known explanation for the Kirigakure situation. All that we know from that is it rained three days before the death of the Mizukage, just as it did for the Raikage"
Jiraiya had a bewildered expression on his face. "What...What happened to the Raikage?"
Tsunade began to rub the bridge of her nose. This wasn't going to get any better. "One week after the death of the Mizukage, the same predicament happened to the Raikage. He to was found dead in his office, as well as his entire family murdered without a shroud of evidence to who did it"
Jiraiya couldn't believe what he was hearing. It had to be not true. He just could not believe it. "Tsunade, how is it that you know what happened in Kirigakure and Kumogakure? We are not a part of their alliance so why would they dispense such top secret information to us?"
"Because Iwagakure told Sunagakure about the entire situation after they were attacked and the Tsuchikage and his entire family were all killed" said Tsunade.
"WHAT!" yelled Jiraiya. "Are you serious? How can three Kages be killed so easily without putting up a fight! Who or what could pull off such an impossible task?"
Jiraiya was clearly upset by this new. It wasn't making any sense and it only got more grim with each revelation. Tsunade sighed before talking. "Jiraiya just relax and let me explain everything without you interrupting me or else we will never get through this"
The toad sage took a deep breath and calmly nodded acknowledging for her to continue. "The Iwagakure situation was different from the others. Since those three villages are in alliance they were dispensing information to one another. Kirigakure and Kumogakure found that ironically it suddenly rained three days before the each Kages death. When it suddenly rained in Iwagakure, their village was put on high security and every available shinobi was used to protect the Tsuchikage and his family"
Tsunade took another deep breath. "Unfortunately, all there efforts proved useless in the end. The Tsuchikage and is family were killed as well as the majority of his security force. The only thing they got out of that situation is they saw a glimpse of who could have been behind it"
"WHO WAS IT!" yelled Jiraiya as he jumped with surprise.
"In the wave of all the destruction, they saw a single figure standing on top it all. A person wearing a black cloak with red clouds patterned on it. A person who could only be a part of..."
"Akatsuki..." finished Jiraiya as he sighed with solemn.
"Yeah..." sighed Tsunade. "It looks like they are on the move again after not much activity over the recent year. They most presumably must have been gathering up all the other jinchuurki. After their organization took some major blows to it's roster, things have been quiet and they've been working in secret eluding much if any notice. However, it looks like they're making some serious moves now all of a sudden"
Jiraiya slammed his hands on the Hokage's desk causing her to immediately be startled. "It just doesn't make any damn sense!" he yelled. "How could one person be able to take out three Kages as well as take on the entire security force of Iwagakure without being noticed? Who could be capable of such a thing? Can you imagine how powerful they must be? And why on earth would you send Naruto straight into the lion's den by putting him on this mission!"
Jiraiya was practically screaming at the Godaime. He was more angry then anything at this point. But Tsunade did have a reason for sending Naruto to help aid Suna. "Jiraiya, please just calm down. I do have a reason for sending Team Seven to help the Kazekage"
The toad sage realizing his sudden outburst calmed himself and relaxed as he looked at his teammate to give him an explanation. "Right now, all the major countries are in much distress since they appear to be the only targets. The Akatsuki have taken out three Kages in less than three weeks. Sunagakure is their next target going upon the signs, meaning after that they only have one target left. And that is me..."
Jiraiya cupped his left hand over his mouth. He was about to say something but Tsunade cut him off. "All ANBU will be notified and put on high alert. Any ninjas that are not on missions will also be notified. However, I have decided to put Naruto and Team Seven on this mission for mainly two reasons"
Tsunade sighed before speaking again. "One, he is indeed one of the strongest shinobi this village has to offer. Added that with the support of his teammates as well as Kakashi, they can be the most effective in this mission. The second being that I'm confident that he is the only one that can take on this Akatsuki figure. We can no longer keep babying Naruto. He has to grow up and face this challenge right in the face. It's either kill or be killed. No more hiding. No more running. It's about time we stop Akatsuki in their tracks"
Jiraiya took a deep breath and looked at Tsunade. She had a somewhat blank expression as she was staring aimlessly past him. He knew this was a hard decision for her to make. This one choice of hers could have many different implications and consequences that could go many ways.
"You do realize what can happen on this mission if the Akatsuki member sees Naruto there? They will definitely try to capture him and succeed in their plans. Are you confident in Naruto being able to complete this mission?"
Tsunade looked at her teammate and gave him a smile. "I'm very confident in our favorite blonde haired ninja. I'm so confident that I bet my life on it. And we all know how good my luck is" she finished with a grin.
Jiraiya had a smirk on his face as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Heh, I guess we can't beat those odds especially with your luck now can we? I just hope that Kakashi will be able to do his part and make sure that the mission is a success"
"Well he sure won't be one to get the glory all for himself! I'm definitely not going to lose to my eternal rival in our ever lasting battle for supremacy!"
Jiraiya quickly turned around to the back of the room to see where he voice was coming from and stepped backwards as the door flew open and in came a green blur that pounced into the room and stood right in front of the Hokages desk.
"Yosh! I am here to ask that my team also be included in with Kakashis! I cannot allow for such a travesty to occur in which his team out does mine! " yelled the green spandex wearing shinobi known as Maito Gai.
Tsunade wasn't pleased by this sudden unexpected entry and a few veins popped on her temple showcasing her anger.
Walking into the room was Shizune with a nervous expression as she rubbed the back of her head, along with Kakashi who had his usual orange book in his right hand who simply sighed at the site of his rival. "Gai, let's try and keep the enthusiasm to a minimum right now. Also, I think you should stop standing on top of Jiraiya-sama"
The taijutsu specialist had a shocked look on his face as he looked down and realized he was standing on top of the white haired sannin. He quickly hopped off before the mass below him stood up and brushed off his clothes.
Gai quickly bowed in front of toad sage. "My deepest apologies Jiraiya-sama! I was not aware of your position and forgive me for causing you any harm"
Jiraiya was about to give him a good piece of his mind, but stopped when Tsunade cleared her throat motioning for everyone to stop before she had to enforce some order. Everyone in the room took note not to displease the Hokage and stood in front of her desk awaiting what she had to say.
Tsunade looked at new incomers. "So how much did you hear and how much do you know?"
Kakashi gave a casual sigh before speaking. "We just came in about a minute ago and heard you talking about a bet or something. Gai heard my name from your office and made a dash for it and interrupted your conversation"
The busy browed man gave a nervous laugh as he saw the displeased look on the Hokage's face. "My sincerest apologizes Hokage-sama! I just feel that Kakashi shouldn't go about this mission on his own considering the circumstances. I feel that my squad would be be best to go on this mission and guarantee success!"
Tsunade looked at Shizune for an explanation as to why she couldn't stop from bringing Gai, but her assistant was doing her best to avoid eye contact and lightly sweating. Tsunade then turned to Jiraiya who simply shrugged his shoulders implementing that he neither knew nor cared.
She then turned back to look at Gai who was giving her his trade mark smile. "Fine, you can help support Kakashi and his team to Sunagakure with your own squad" said Tsunade.
"YES! Thank you very much Hokage-sama! I'll make sure that we complete this mission without failure. I can't have my rival out doing me by going on this top secret mission all alone now can I?" Gai said he lightly elbowed Kakashi in the ribs, who sighed and kept his lazy demeanor.
Tsunade shook her head before looking at the three new comers. "I want you to take note that this is a double S-ranked mission meaning chance of survival is minimum at best. You are basically going on a suicide mission. Before I dispense the contest of the mission you must agree to accept without any doubt"
She looked at the two jounin senseis for there answer. They both had serious expressions on their faces and simply nodded. Tsunade was about to say something, but she was interrupted by Shizune. "Wait a second Tsunade-sama. Do you want me to leave the room?"
Tsunade just shook her head. "No, you can stay as well. I trust you enough to take in this information" Shizune just gave a complacent nod and awaited what her shishou had to say.
Tsunade took a deep breath before speaking. "Alright then, I will brief you on the situation and your mission"
After Tsunade had gone through all the past events that had occurred throughout the last three weeks and given every known detail she was left with shocked, confused, and surprised faces. There was a quiet silence in the room for a couple of minutes until Kakashi broke it. "So those days when it rained here in Konoha were linked to the assassination of the three Kages as well?"
Tsunade simply nodded her head. "It's strange but that's what seems to be the trend. It's as if the rain is a bad omen of things to come"
"And what about your safety Tsunade-sama? Have you prepared any security measures for yourself?" asked Gai.
"All ANBU will be informed, as well as any available shinobi. I'm going to have a meeting with the council so we can talk about how to resolved this issue. However, you two can help make sure that it doesn't have to come to that. Suna has prepared extensively for this situation and everything has been on protecting their Kazekage"
Tsunade paused for a few seconds before speaking again. "A lot is riding on this mission. You two must be able to stop the Akatsuki from doing any further damage, as well as find out any information that you can. You must do everything you can to stop this crisis from getting any worse. If Suna is lost, only chaos will be the result as the world will be in turmoil due to lack of power balance, and a far worse faith awaits us"
"What do you mean Tsunade-sama?" asked Shizune. "What could happen?"
This time it was Jiraiya who answered. "With a lack of proper leadership, all of the alliances that have prevented wars from starting will be broken because the link of Kages is broken. Seeing the five strongest countries lose their leadership will cause other countries to rise up and try to seek dominance. This means fighting will ensue creating wars all around the world. Earth will become a battlefield like it was so many years ago"
Shizune gasped out loud while the looks on Kakashi's and Gai's face got more grim. This was really sounding out to be for the worst. They had all remembered the Third Great Ninja War that had gone on for many years between the numerous countries and villages. It was one of the darkest times in the worlds history. Numerous shinobi were killed, and over thousands of people were slaughtered as countries battled for dominance.
After much fighting and bloodshed, the five most powerful villages had formed an alliance with one another to stop fighting and come to a treaty in which they all instilled neutrality amongst one another. This way they prevented any further conflicts turning violent, and used more diplomatic measures to reach agreement. Though this did bring eventual peace, there were still some tensions between the villages.
Iwagakure still held a grudge against Konohagakure for what the Yondaime Hokage had done to their forces during the last war and wiping out numerous of their shinobi. Kumogakure were still angry at the fact that Hiashi Hyuuga wasn't killed for his murder of their shinobi leader that tried to kidnap Hinata and instead his twin brother was sacrificed. They weren't ones that enjoyed being tricked. Kirigakure still did have a stronger connection to Konoha then their counterparts, but were more closely in alliance with Iwagakure and Kumogakure because they had strong trade connections.
Konoha's only trustworthy ally was Sunagakure, since the two villages strengthened their ties greatly during the Gaara retrieval mission. And now Konoha was going to do it's best to make sure it's closest ally didn't suffer a huge blow. Because if Suna was to fall, then Konoha was next, meaning they were the last stand. If word got out that all the Kages of the five major villages were dead, then there would only be chaos afoot.
"Tsunade-sama, you said that the ones suspected to be behind this are the Akatsuki?" Tsunade nodded. "Then is it really wise to send Naruto along? He is a jinchuuriki after all" said Kakashi.
"I've already said this to Jiraiya, and I'm one hundred percent confident that Naruto should go along. He's well qualified for this mission and we can not keep holding him back like he is still a baby"
Tsunade paused for a few seconds before speaking. "And either way, it's not like we would be able to hold him back. This is just the kind of mission that the brat has been nagging me to put him on, and I think this should finally shut him up" she finished with a smirk.
Kakashi smiled under his mask and nodded. "Alright then its settled. The trip to Suna should take around two days. If we leave right now, we can be there just in time before the suspected attack should happen"
"Ha! It would take two days if we walked to Suna. I bet we could make it there in just a little over a day if we went full speed!" yelled Gai.
Kakashi cupped his left ear to block out the yelling and look at his fellow jounin. "Gai, we will make sure to get there as soon as possible, but we must still be reasonable. I'll gather my squad from their training grounds, and meet your team at the front gates"
And with those final words Kakashi disappeared in a puff of smoke. Gai bowed down and gave another apology to Tsunade and Jiraiya for his earlier intrusion and dashed out of the room going on about beating Kakashi's squad to the front gates.
Tsunade looked at her assistant. "Shizune, I need you to get the two council members to meet me so we can discuss this new situation in more detail"
Shizune nodded and left the room to obtain the two council members. Tsunade sighed and leaned back into her chair ass she closed her eyes. She had a lot on her mind and the stress was getting to her. She quickly opened them when she heard a thud on her desk and a popping sound and looked to see Jiraiya pouring some sake into two white cups.
He had a grin on his face as he finished filling the cups and placing the white bottle on the side. "Those old geezers are going to take a while. Might as well enjoy the wait with some good ol sake right?"
"I thought you'd never ask!" Tsunade yelled as she picked up the bottle and gulped it down as Jiraiya himself laughed and picked up his cup as well.
The two Hyuuga were clashing with one another. Neji and Hinata were practicing their Gentle Fist style against one another as they usually did. They had just stated their training a little over half an hour ago and were just warming up for their usual everyday workouts.
Rock Lee was almost reaching his nine thousandth push up while Tenten sat cross legged on his back and was cleaning the blood off her favorite kunai set.
It was just another typical day with Team Gai doing doing their usual training. The area was calm and remained unchanged for the most part until a sudden stirring could be heard and the training ninja stopped what they were doing and looked in the direction of the noise.
Coming in from the left side of the field was their green plaid jounin sensei, who was running at top speed and bringing a dust cloud behind him.Before they even knew it, the younger shinobi were hit by the dust cloud and started coughing hardly as their sensei stood in front of them.
Gai quickly brushed off his jumpsuit and looked at his former students. "I see you all are working hard as usual. I wouldn't expect anything less from my stupendous students!" he said with a thumbs up and his classic smile.
After they were done coughing their lungs out, Tenten, Neji, and Hinata were giving him an angry glare, while Lee's expression turned into a huge smile. "Gai-sensei, what are you doing here on this most youthful day? Have you come to put as through another one of your special training sessions?"
Everyone else sweat dropped at the mention of Gai's "special" training sessions. If they had to do one of those, that definitely meant a trip to the Konoha hospital because Gai pushed them to the brink of death (at least that's how they felt about it). The only one that manged to stay happy during the whole thing was Lee, and that was because his competitive nature pushed him to do so.
Gai just laughed before speaking. "I'm enthralled by your enthusiasm Lee, but no I haven't come for that" the rest of his fellow friends inwardly sighed with relief, while Lee had a disappointed look on his face. "However, I've come to take you on a mission which will be far more intense. A double S-ranked mission to Sunagakure"
All the younger shinobi gasped at the mention of double S-ranked. This was a serious proposition and wasn't a standard mission that was handed out.
"Gai-sensei, are you sure we are qualified to go on this mission?" asked Tenten.
Gai just gave a smile and nodded. "I'm fully confident in all of your abilities to take you on this mission. We have worked together as a team for many years, and with all of us on this mission, I'm sure we will succeed easily!"
"When are we to leave for the mission sensei?" asked Neji.
"We must leave right away and go to the front gates before Kakashi's team arrives there first. We will be working with them on this mission" said Gai.
Neji nodded and turned his attention to his cousin. "Forgive me Hinata-sama, but I must cut our training session short. I hope to make it up to you as soon as I return"
Hinata frowned at his words. "There is no need for you to apologize Neji-niisan. You must insure your safety on the mission rather than worry about me. I hope you succeed and make it back safely" she finished with a smile.
Neji gave the closet thing to a smile he could muster and bowed before her. "Thank you Hinata-sama. You take care of yourself as well"
Gai nodded and turned towards the exit of the training grounds. "All right then, we are all set and ready to go! Let's make it there before Kakashi's team, or else we will go through one my super special training sessions!"
And with that he burst off with a dash and made his way for the gates. Lee left a second after him and did his best to catch up, while Neji and Tenten inwardly groaned and tried to meet up with their enthusiastic sensei and teammate.
Hinata just shook her head as she gave out a small laugh and left to go back to the Hyuuga compound to notify her father of the situation.
Sakura wiped the sweat off her forehead with her left hand and sat on the ground as she tried to catch her breath from her exhausting workout. She looked onto the opposite side of the training field and looked on as her two teammates were still going at it.
Naruto threw a right hook at Sasuke's face, but missed as the Uchiha ducked down and swiped Naruto off his feet with a low swivel kick.
Naruto landed on his back with a thud and rapidly opened his eyes and saw a flash of silver coming at him. He quickly twisted his neck to the right and barely avoided getting hit by Sasuke's chokuto, which dug deep down into the ground.
Using the heels of his feet, he pushed hard against the ground and black flipped up off the ground.
"Too slow"
Naruto felt the blade go through his chest and he gave out a grunt as it pushed throw and blood seeped out his mouth. Sasuke pushed in deeper till the blade disappeared and only the hilt could be seen.
"If I didn't have my Sharingan on, I would have missed that hand seal you made earlier. You've gotten a lost faster dobe"
The blonde haired shinobi had a grin on his face as it puffed away in a cloud of smoke.
Sasuke quickly spun around and held his blade up and blocked Naruto's oncoming attack as the two blades clashed and chakra dispersed between them.
Sakura witnessed the high speed battle happening before her eyes. Though she could barely follow her teammates movements, she deduced that Naruto had a made a kage bunshin right before he jumped off the ground and did a kawamari with it, avoiding Sasuke's rapid attack.
Even though this was just a sparring match, it was as if both ninjas were going for the killing blow at any chance they got, and she couldn't help but feel worried whenever they fought against one another.
Sasuke blocked Naruto's on coming blade and pushed it back as he turned his torso to the left and brought his blade under his left arm and stabbed the Naurto's clone coming from behind with a Rasengan aimed at his back.
He then turned his attention to the front and saw the original Naruto back up and place his hilt back on his belt. He then suddenly saw him make a tiger seal and inwardly cursed as he knew what was going to happen soon, and started making his own hand signs.
Damn it Naruto, why do you always do this when you know you can't beat me! It's pointless and no amount of effort is going to change that!
Naruto finished his hand seals and took a deep breath he brought his left hand to his mouth and blew the built up chakra in his abdomen between the space of his thumb and index finger.
Sasuke saw the huge flames quickly approaching him, and he rapidly finished his seals and mimicked Naruto's earlier movements. Naruto's fireball almost engulfed Sasuke, but the Uchiha forced it back with his own and pushed it away.
Sakura shielded her eyes with her right hand and tried to block out the bright glare as she tried her best to look on through the small gaps between her fingers. Naruto always tried to beat Sasuke when it came to katon jutsus, but he could never win because Sasuke was naturally good at them since he had practiced them ever since he was young.
Sasuke's face instantly started to sweat as he continually pushed chakra out his mouth. The two massive flame entities pushed against one another into an even stalemate.
Naruto tried to keep up, but he couldn't continue breathing out much longer. Sakura watched as Naruto's side started to fade out and Sasuke's flames over took his easily. Sasuke had almost completely taken over, as his flames engulfed Naruto's and left it to almost nothing.
Sakura bit her bottom lip as she saw the engrossing flames take away any sign of Naruto.
Sasuke had pushed to a point where he was sure that Naruto couldn't fight back. He was about to stop, until suddenly he heard a wising sound and his eyes opened wide in shock as he saw his huge fireball start to quickly diminish.
Sakura stood up off the ground and got as close as possible as she tried to see what was suddenly happening.
Sasuke continued to look on and force more chakra into his flames, but it was all hopeless as his fireball continued to be taken in by an unknown source. It was getting worse as now he felt his entire body being dragged in. He was stuck in the same position and his body couldn't move.
It was as if the space around him was completely compressed and his sense weren't responding. He couldn't even shift his eyes and could only look forward in horror as he saw a small pure white sphere coming directly at him.
What the hell? That's Naruto's special jutsu that can throw things into an another dimension! What does he think he's doing? If he hits me with that thing, then who knows where I'll be! He can't be serious!
But alas he continued to be dragged in and he couldn't escape as his body was stuck and the last of his flames had been completely sucked in. He looked at Naruto's face and saw a strange and angry expression. It was a look he'd never seen before on him and it got darker as the closer he came. He pushed every fiber and strand in his body, yet it was pointless as he was now only a few feet away.
Sakura couldn't believe what she was seeing. She didn't know everything about Naruto's jutsu, but she knew it was very dangerous when he did it, being lethal to both the opponent and user. She didn't know what to do. She was too far away to stop them and even then how would she? Her heart kept beating faster by the millisecond, and panic was striking. She had do something, anything, to stop Naruto from striking Sasuke and causing them both to get seriously hurt.
He was getting closer and almost a few inches away. Sasuke felt his heart skip a beat and the only things he could make out was the loud wising sound coming from the Tenrai Sora Rasengan in front of him, and a very faint audible sound of what he thought was Sakura yelling.
This was it. It was over. There was no more hope. Sasuke couldn't do anything about it. He was going to be thrown into God knew where, and he couldn't say or do a damn thing about it. He didn't even have enough time to have his life flash before his eyes.
But that wasn't going to happen because his last bit of hope was answered when he felt the circulation of air around him start to finally loosen up and he felt himself moving his body in what must have been ages.
His eyes were locked on the white sphere that was now point blank from his chest. He pushed every amount of strength, chakra, and will power he had in his body to get away from it.
Fortunately for him he wouldn't be struck as he was able to barely catch the hand that grabbed Naruto's right wrist twisting it backwards before launching the whole body as far as possible to the left side of the field.
The sudden interruption caused a major disruption in the space around him and he felt his body get hit by a huge jolt of sheer air pressure that threw his entire body backwards. He felt as if he was literally falling from the sky as he was rammed hard against the trunk of a tree and every pain receptor in his body responded causing him to scream out loud.
Sakura stood in complete shock as everything happened so fast. She had yelled for Naruto to stop as she ran towards her two teammates, but she felt a sharp pain on her left shoulder that caused her to stop in her tracks and look on as her sensei dashed towards his students and interrupted Naruto's attack, sending the two younger ninjas in opposite directions.
Kakashi was panting hard as he had sprinted as fast as he could to stop Naruto from striking Sasuke. At first he couldn't believe what would cause him to do such a thing. That jutsu was not supposed to be used on fellow shinobi. What had Naruto been thinking? Was he really willing to hit Sasuke with it?
Kakashi thought it over in his head a bunch of times, but it call came down to the conclusion that if he hadn't interrupted, Sasuke would indeed be lost to the unknown.
He looked in the direction of Sasuke and saw the Uchiha slowly trying to get up as he coughed out blood. He then took a glance at Naruto and saw him rolling on the ground clutching his right wrist yelling out in pure agony.
Kakashi sighed as he lowered his hitai-ate over his left eye deactivating his Sharingan. He had made sure to twist Naruto's wrist to cut off the steady flow of chakra being pumped into his Tenrai Sora Rasengan and disable the jutsu. He turned back to look at Sakura who still had a shocked expression on her face as she was switching from looking at both Naruto and Sasuke.
"Sakura, come over here and take a look at Naruto, while I check up on Sasuke. Naruto seems to be in a worse condition and you know more about how to deal with him"
Sakura looked at her sensei and quickly nodded her head as she dashed over to where Naruto was lying while Kakashi walked over to Sasuke, who had slowly gotten up, pushing himself against the tree.
"FUCK, FUCK, FUCK!" cursed Naruto as he continuously rolled on the ground clutching his right wrist and dwelling in everlasting pain. He couldn't stand it. He just wanted to rip off his right arm completely as it continued to sting over every inch with no end in site. His palm was especially burning with a fury and it was as if it was scorched by the sun itself.
Sakura reached Naruto and stopped right in front of him. He was still twisting around on the ground yelling out numerous curses and obscenities as he clutched his right hand. She was afraid to go any closer and touch him to make sure he was fine. She wanted to check on him, but she was aghast about doing so.
The only thing she could do was muster out a few words. "Na..Naruto...Are you...alright?"
"Does it look like I am fucking alright!" he yelled causing the kunoichi to suddenly jump. "I'm fucking dieing over her in agony and I don't know how or why this is happening, and you ask me if I'm fucking alright? WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU!"
Sakura was really taken back by this sudden outburst. Naruto had never got this angry before, and he had never ever cursed at her before. And what did he mean he didn't know what happened? Did he suddenly forget what went on just a couple of minutes ago? Dare she ask him?
Naruto yelled out again as his arm jolted with another series of pain. He slammed his fist into the ground numerous times shattering the area underneath him and digging in deeper with each thrust. His fist instantly was covered with scratches and bruises and his arm began to bleed all over as he continued to pound down.
Sakura wasn't sure what to do. She was down right afraid and fearful. She wanted to help him, calm him down, anything at all to stop his pain, but she was petrified and standing in the same position. Her body began to suddenly tremble as she got a strange feeling and goosebumps arose all over her arms as she felt a cold chill hit her.
Naruto's body began to emit a low purple glow that started to encase him slowly. He continued to pound on the ground trying to cancel out pain with pain. But his hammering started to get slower and weaker as he felt his body sag and his eyes get heavy. His breathing got shallow and his head started to hurt tremendously.
Kakashi had finally come over with a slightly limping Sasuke next to him. They both came up behind Sakura and stood next to her as they saw Naruto still lying on the ground with his movements becoming slower by the second and his body almost completely covered in a light purple.
Kakashi looked at Sakura who was still in a petrified stance just looking on aimlessly at the blond haired ninja. He turned his direction to look at Naruto again and saw him suddenly stop all his thrashing and now standing on his knees as he clutched his skull with both hands.
Now he began to have a strange feeling himself. Something of a malicious intent hit him awkwardly causing him to not move forward to help his student. Almost as if it was pushing him away.
Sasuke was feeling the same way. He just stood there immobile and not moving. He wanted to talk to Naruto. He wanted to ask him what was going on and why he had tried to pull a lethal jutsu on him.
What was going on with Naruto? He was there in front of them yelling out in agony and they weren't even able to move to help him? Were they afraid? What was going to happen if they moved any closer? Why couldn't they move any closer even if they willed it?
Naruto felt his skull squeezing so hard that the bone was about to shatter as he pressed his fingers against it. All around he felt his nerves going haywire and every single cell in his brain about to burst with overload.
He gave out a loud scream as he felt his brain being crushed by his compressing skull. It was too much for him to handle. He couldn't stand it any longer and the world around him got darker as the light started to fade. His arms fell limply to his sides and his eyes rolled in the back of his head. There was nothing to hold him up and he crashed onto the hard dirt and lay there deadly still.
Whatever was holding back the rest of his team earlier was now lifted as they rushed towards their fallen comrade and turned him over on his back. Sakura made a careful examination of Naruto.
"Sakura, how is he? How are his vitals?" asked Kakashi.
"He has a low pulse and appears to be unconscious. Other than his right arm, he looks to be about ok" she said.
Kakashi sighed as he looked at Sasuke who was staring down at his friend. His eyes were focused on a particular part of his body with great concentration and Kakashi followed his stare to Naruto's abdomen which had a weird glow seeping through his clothes.
Kakashi thought about it for a second and remembered about Naruto's new seal. He quickly moved down and told Sakura to scoot over as he carefully lifted his clothing and examined the seal which was now brightly glowing.
He took a closer look and noticed as the purple diamond in the middle now had black streak like cracks across it. Being an amateur seal expert he knew how to deal with a certain few, but he had never worked on demonic seals before so he was clueless.
He looked up at Sasuke who was now checking his body for any wounds. He turned to Sakura as she continued to stare at Naruto with a worried expression.
"Sakura, did Naruto tell you anything before he passed out? Were you able to find out anything?"
Sakura looked at the copy ninja with a dismal look. "No...I wasn't able to get near him at all. I tried to ask him if he was alright, but he got really angry and told me to stay away...The only thing I found out was that he didn't know how he got hurt so badly..like he forgot everything that happened earlier"
Kakashi crossed his arms and sighed deeply as he looked at his student. He was laying perfectly still on the ground with nothing but his seal glowing. He wasn't sure what to do. Probably wait it out until Naruto regained consciousness. But how long would that take? He decided to give it about ten minutes before doing something.
"Kakashi-sensei, do you want me to heal Naruto's arm?" asked Sakura.
Kakashi looked at the pink haired girl and shook his head. "No, we shouldn't do anything for now and just let it be. We will give him ten minutes before I decide what to do next"
"Why are you here anyway Kakashi-sensei? Isn't this supposed to be your day off?"
Kakashi turned to look at Sasuke who was now crouching down next to him awaiting an explanation.
"We have been given emergency orders by Tsunade-sama to go to Sunagakure to help the Kazekage in an important mission, double S-ranked priority. We will go together with Gai's team, and have a dead line to meet of two days"
Sasuke raised an eyebrow at the mention of double S-ranked. "Why has such a high ranking mission been given to us? Could you explain the details"
Kakashi nodded his head. "I'll inform you both of the situation and what we are to do. After I am done explaining we will check up on Naruto to see if he is any better" He then turned to Sakura.
"Sakura, would you mind healing up any of Sasuke's injuries while I tell you both about what's happening?"
The medic-nin quickly replied with a yes as she took one last look at Naruto and walked over and checked up on her other teammate. Kakashi took another quick look at Naruto before he moved with the rest of his squad to inform them of the mission's details. Naruto, whatever is happening I hope you make through it safely. Comeback to us soon...
Alternate Dimension
It was very hot. The atmosphere was scorching and the air was dry. Naruto felt the blaze all around him. He was sweating protrusively and felt his face stinging all over as it instantly evaporated in the hot climate.
He heard a cold and vile laughter that was oh to familiar as it would forever haunt the depths of his soul. He opened his eyes and focused on the humongous orange orb in front of him. There it stood on the platform of destiny encasing the most sinful manifestation of hell itself, theIkatsui Karite.
"I can't believe I would ever find myself in this cursed sanctum again. Did you not learn your lesson the first time boy? Do you wish to lose what little sanity you have left?"roared Kyuubi.
Naruto didn't even flinch as Kyuubi spoke up inside his head. He knew the consequences of being in this place. A place that even the almighty Kyuubi no Yoko feared would mean that a simple mortal such as himself should have died of fear a long time ago.
But like it was said earlier, this wasn't his first time being here. He knew the deal. The Ikatsui Karite would try it's best to break him mentally. That was it's game that it liked to play. Naruto knew what to expect to a certain extent, but he still didn't know why he was here, or how.
The laughter got louder and became maniacal. Naruto looked at the orange orb as he saw the cylindrical black ether shape circling around the orb, suddenly turning it darker and darker, becoming more black by the second.
Once it was fully encased he saw the center start to distort and a small ripple occurred as the demon soul reaper pushed through, it's dark red eyes staring directly at Naruto. It pushed slowly out, and the four large canines became visible.
Before not too long, the majority of it's body was out swiveling in the air. It spotted Naruto and immediately formed an evil grin. It approached closer towards him until it was right in front of his face.
"So what brings you down here mortal? Come to pay a visit?"
"Shut the fuck up!" yelled Naruto. "You know damn well I would never come here again. Stop playing games and tell me why you brought me here"
The demon laughed again as it slowly began to coil around Naruto almost completely wrapping itself around the shinobi until it's head was near his right shoulder. "As rude as ever aren't you boy? Don't you think you should show some respect to those who come to your aid in times of crisis?"
Naruto bent his neck and closed his eyes as he balled his fists, causing the figure around him to laugh even more. "Ah you can't have forgotten now could you? When you summoned me to seal the soul of your.."
"Just shut up!" yelled Naruto cutting off Ikatsui Karite. "Ok fine I get it. You helped me. Thanks a fucking lot. But now you have another soul to feast on for everlasting eternity. Isn't that enough for you, you hungry bastard? Why do you want more when I have nothing left to offer?"
Ikatsui Karite continued to laugh. It was having too much fun at the expense of others and it was just the way it liked it. "True, there is nothing you can offer me more than you already have. That ever so tasty and juicy soul you gave me. The soul of your..."
It swiveled around until it met Naruto's face making direct eye contact. "own mother..."
Naruto finally flinched causing Ikatsui Karite to laugh even more. "Hahaha, can't act so tough when talking about such touchy subjects eh? Care to see how she is doing? You know she misses you ever so dearly.."
Naruto gritted his teeth as he tried to maintain his stance. He wanted so much as to just punch the black ether entity but it was hopeless. This was his domain and he couldn't do a damn thing about it.
His eyes stretched out in shock as he grasped the image in front of him. There inside the orb where countless numbers of white intangible souls floating around moaning out in torment and misery. They just moved around aimless hitting one another and the sides of the orb.
Ikatsui Karite came back towards Naruto and took the same position by staying on his right side. "Would you like to pick out which one is your mother? Maybe if you guess right I'll let her go" it laughed loudly.
Naruto had to do everything he could just to hold back. He was infuriated behind belief and it was taking everything to stop from breaking down.
"Careful Naruto, it's just playing with your mind. Don't play into it's hands, that's what it wants" advised Kyuubi.
Naruto took note of Kyuubi's words and kept trying to maintain a calm demeanor. He took a deep breath and just opened his eyes and stared ahead.
Ikatsui Karite gave another horrid laugh. "Fine if you don't wish to save her, then I'll gladly pick her out for you. I'm sure she'll be glad that you came to visit her"
It's red eyes glowed brightly and the souls within the orb cried out in distress as they all scattered to the sides and left a single one at the center. It stood there motionless not moving whatsoever.
Naruto's eyes started to cringe as the white ether soul began to take a more human form. It was hazy and he couldn't completely make it out. Somehow his legs moved forward toward the platform and Ikatsui Karite followed right next to him.
He walked until he was almost right up to the orb itself. He stared through and looked at the now human face of his mother. Her face was emotionless and she just stood there looking into his eyes. He couldn't even depict how she must have been feeling if anything at all. There were so many things he wanted to say and do.
He wanted to apologize for doing this to her. He wanted her to know how sorry he was. If he could cut her suffering by taking it as his own, he would do so. Suddenly he saw her reach out her right hand towards him almost if she was trying to make contact.
Naruto couldn't believe it. Was she really able to respond? Could she have heard his thoughts? He slowly reached out with his left hand trying to touch her right.
They were so close and right when he was about to make contact, he touched the orb and his hand instantly flew back as it was scorched and it with a burning sensation.
He heard the vile laughter again as Ikatsui Karite encircled around him again and looked down. "Hahaha, your only allowed to see, not touch! I would have forewarned you, but the look on your face is too much to resist!"
Naruto felt his rage start to take over and he began to slightly tremble. "Ok if you brought me here just so you can get a good laugh, then I suggest you learn I'm not in the mood for jokes and am very pissed right now. I think it's for me to leave"
Ikatsui Karite laughed even harder than before. It was having way too much fun. "My pleasure comes from the suffering of dead souls, not living mortals. I've brought you here as a reminder of my presence that has been carved into the depths of your very own soul.."
Naruto heart jerked with those words. Could this have any possible connection with what had happened earlier? When all of a sudden he had lost his senses during his fight with Sasuke? When he couldn't even remember what he was doing?
The cold laughter was heard again sending chills up his spine. "So you've finally put it together? What happened earlier..It was due to part of my influence.."
Naruto's breathing got rampant as he tried his utmost best to remain calm.
"You've put up a tough fight I must admit. Keeping out the evil influences for so long..."
It coiled around again facing him directly. "However, in the heat of battle you gave in. As long as you could achieve victory you'd be satisfied. At that moment your competitive nature gave in. All that stuff about honor, Hokage, and pointless 'Will of Fire' was thrown out"
"SHUT UP!" yelled Naruto. "You don't know anything! The Will of Fire is what makes a ninja strong. Just as the Sandiame said with his last words"
When they are protecting something important. That's when a shinobi's true strength appears...
"I will become strong! I will protect everyone in this village by becoming the greatest Hokage ever! And there is no one, not even you, that is going to stop me, so just shut the fuck up with your stupid nonsense!" yelled Naruto.
Ikatsui Karite was taken back by this sudden resilience. It looked around the area and saw as the dimension began to slowly crumble. Could it be possible that Naruto's vigor had been able to over come his instigation?
It looked back at Naruto who was giving it steady firm look. "I think it's about time for me to leave this forsaken place. You've pissed me off far behind I can stand. Just stay in your little playpen and don't try to resurface again"
The demon soul reaper began to uncoil itself from around Naruto and slowly started to recede into the now orange orb as the dimension began to crumble even more. It was almost fully in until just it's head remained outside.
Before finally falling back it said a few last words. "You may indeed become the greatest Hokage ever. But you must also remember what their fate was...To forever suffer inside the stomach of the Shinigami..."
And with that it completely disappeared inside the orb leaving Naruto to stand and think about what he had said before eventually everything turned into darkness and Naruto lost all of his senses.
End Alternate Dimension
His eyes burst open and he felt himself leap into the air and stand on his two feet. He looked around for his teammates and spotted them right in front of him enticed by his sudden movements. He looked at each one of their faces and saw a hint of concern.
Suddenly everything just hit him like a ton of bricks as his memory was flooded with all the accounts of what happened prior to his unconsciousness. He remembered almost killing Sasuke with his jutsu. He remembered cursing at Sakura when his arm was in severe pain. He squeezed his fingers slightly and felt a sharp jolt of pain run up his arm, but he gritted his teeth trough the pain.
"I see your finally awake Naruto. Enjoy your nice little nap" said Kakashi.
Naruto looked at his sensei who was giving him a smile. Naruto gave a fake grin and nodded his head. "Yeah, I'm fine, just a sudden headache and exhaustion"
He then turned towards his two teammates that were looking at him. "I just want to tell you guys I'm sorry for what I did and said earlier. I don't know what had gotten into me, but I hope you can forgive me"
He first looked at Sasuke. "I really didn't mean to go as far as I did with my jutsu. I just lost any sense I had and it was pure stupidity on my part. I'm sorry for my actions"
However, he failed to mention what he had learned earlier, but he felt it wasn't the time to dwell into that. He didn't know if he should tell them yet, or even at all.
"It's fine. I guess we can call it even for me punching a Chidori through your chest. I knew you'd get me back for that eventually" said Sasuke with a smirk.
Naruto continued to grin as he then looked at the pink haired kunoichi who was awaiting him with anxious eyes. "Sakura-chan, I'm sorry for totally blowing up on your earlier. I had no right to speak to you the way I did. If you don't ever want to speak to me again, I'll understand"
He finished and waited for what she would say. She just looked into his blue eyes trying to see if he was sincere. Before not too long she slowly walked up to him. Naruto thought he was in for a beating, and he had the sense to run, but he knew he damn well he deserved it.
When she was right in front of him she looked up at him and raised both her arms. Naruto felt as if he was about to get a hit on the head, but instead Sakura wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a hug.
"Apology accepted" she said. "I know you were in a lot of pain and not thinking clearly. There's no way I wouldn't want to talk to you again...even if you do it too much"
Naruto laughed as he returned the hug and then looked at Kakashi. "So Kakashi-sensei, what are you doing here?"
The silver haired jounin had a serious look on his face now, as he remembered their mission. He smacked his forehead as he knew Gai would be all over him if they didn't reach the gates in time.
"Naruto, I'll make this really quick because we don't have much time. We have a mission to Sunagakure, double S-ranked priority. We must reach there before two days. I can't give you all the details right now, so I'll inform you along the way, understood?"
The blonde haired ninja wanted to ask so many questions, but he decided to keep quiet and just nodded. They were about to leave for the gates until Sakura asked about Naruto's arm.
He did his best not to move it and keep it stabilized because it was still tender. "Sakura-chan, like Kakashi-sensei said we don't have anytime. It's fine right now as long as I don't move it too much. I'll fix it up when we get the time"
The medic-nin had to fight her professional instincts and decided to agree. Team Seven moved out as fast as they could towards the Konoha gates on their mission to stop the impending Akatsuki threat in Suna.
Naruto was still going over what had happened and what he learned from Ikatsui Karite. He didn't want to tell anybody about what happened. This was his burden, and his burden alone. He wasn't going to bring anyone else into it.
However, he failed to notice that Kakashi had his suspicions and wasn't going to let Naruto face it on his own. He'd eventually find out one way or another. But for now their main objective was to get to Sunagakure as soon as possible to stop the impending danger and threat to not only their village, but quite possibly the world itself.
Kirikgakure - Hidden Mist Village
Kumogakure - Hidden Cloud Village
Iwagakure - Hidden Rock Village
Konohagakure - Hidden Leaf Village
Sunagakure - Hidden Sand Village
Rasengan - Spiral Sphere (original)
Tenrai Sora Rasengan - Divine Sky Spiral Sphere (mine!)
Chidori - Thousand Birds (original)
Author's Note: Well this my longest chapter so far! I hope that makes up for the long wait for those who still care. I've been waiting a long time to finally reach this arc. There are going to be some interesting revelations, fights, scenarios, and character deaths. A lot will happen in the next few chapters and I'm excited to write them down. So remember, with your reviews combined, I am Captain Update!