Chapter 59: Back at the Homefront! 2.0! Pt 1
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A's POV (Cloudless Plateau - Hidden Cloud Village)
Morning
A marched through the sounds of pants, grunts of effort and pain, and in sync counting. A moved through them watching them all with a forced emotionless gaze.
Instead, he allowed his attention to drift to one of his favorite places in this accursed world. The plateau he and his men stood on was one of great reverence to Cloud Village. While the exact record had been lost to time, a legend had been passed down on how this plateau had come to stand.
Supposedly, the original A, the man that he and all Raikage are named after, had been responsible for it. The man had been called the Unrelenting A, a powerful man who had led a small grouping of clans that would one day from the Cloud Village. They had attempted to overpower Hashirama's Senju Clan. The battle had been fought at this very spot; the leader of the Cloud had ambushed Hashirama and his guard, who were there to speak to them. The battle had been hard fought, and the two future Kage had obliterated the land around them in their struggle. The spot had once been home to a range of small mountains; they had left only one. Despite Relentless A's power and tenacity, Hashirama slowly overwhelmed the man. Realizing he was destined to be defeated he wildly unleashed his most powerful attack, a karate chop that could cleave mountains in two. Hashirama had managed to deflect the blow. But its destructive power had left its mark. The karate chop had been a variable storm of chakra, it had cut the mountain they stood on in two, burned away the plant life and even split the sky, even now the clouds mysteriously avoiding a narrow gash in the sky. (1)
A barely believe in the tale however. Sure the leader of their village had not been so weak as to fail. Furthermore it was like shinobi to deceive and lead astray; with that in mind and the time that had passed, it was nearly impossible to be sure how true the tale was. But the area sold the idea well. The unnatural flat plateau had a smooth surface that shone in the morning. It is as if cut by a massive blade that was intense enough to melt stone. The land around them was flat and covered in thick trees A knew wasn't a normal species of the Land of Lightning. Even the sky seemed scarred somehow. But realizing he had lost himself to thought he snapped his attention back to his men.
His eyes drifted to Darui, who stood in front of the massive crowd directing their workout. The normally laid-back and passive man was energetic and demanding as he barked orders. His ability to switch between both was why A used him as his right hand. He was powerful and intelligent enough to be useful but lazy enough to never be a threat. In truth A often suspected if he ever died or retired he would be selected as his replacement. Such brought a small frown to A's face.
His assistant Mabui followed behind him, mercilessly critiquing the form of his men as they went. In truth, he recognized that Mabui acted differently than she genuinely was around him. He knew she was not nearly so cold and detached, he believed she acted such a way around him as a shield. But he kept her around due to her impressive intelligence and utter loyalty. Her mind was helpful in his less necessary paperwork and politics; she had a body he loved to gaze at and was smart enough to know to follow his every whim. He saw resentment and fear in her eyes when she gazed at him. But neither was why she followed his orders without failure, more than anything A suspected she realized just how necessary he was.
A ran a tight ship in his village, while some seemed focused on economics or service, he knew the true purpose of a shinobi village. Shinobi were weapons for their country, human tools that adapted and overcame limits as needed and ordered. They followed their superior's whim with absurd diligence and skill. They were not made to merely protect but to crush one's enemies. To conquer land and markets for their homeland. To make their country and home greater through conquest. They weren't some sort of heroes or mercenaries. They were a damn military. A preferred to run it as such.
Every morning, an alarm sounded out as soon as the sun peeked over the skyline. It truly was not needed, but insurance would save A from punishing those who had failed to listen otherwise. Once that sound was heard, his shinobi would dress in combat fatigues and gather at this spot. From Genin, Anbu, Intelligence, and even clerical, anyone who worked under A was expected to be there. They would arrange into formation as if marching out to battle. The range specialist and his mechanic fire his particular chakra canons in the back; in front of them was where the tactical and supportive manpower, and in front of them was a mix of their kenjutsu and Taijutsu shinobi, rounded out by the vanguard. Led by Darui, it featured some of his strongest shinobi.
With the assembled and positioned, Darui would lead them all through various physical drills. These were designed to be high-intensity, detailed, specific, and endless. This drill was made to wake them up and test their mettle first thing in the morning, keeping them from getting soft. To ensure it was painful and challenging for all parties, it went on until every single person dropped and was required to echo the call made by Darui. Forcing growth and assuring loyalty was how A started his days.
As his men worked diligently, A would march around seeking weakness or hesitation. This kept his men from slacking and allowed A to watch his forces. There would always be one with a weak mind or body or less than utterly loyal. Once he spotted them, he had a unique way of correcting them.
Karui, Omoi, and a few others were currently enduring such a situation. His Anbu engaged them in merciless and hopeless combat. Each of them was outnumbered, isolated, and beaten thoroughly. Once they collapsed and could fight no more, healers moved forth and got them back into fighting shape. They would continue until the others would finish their own drill. The two Genins failed him in the exams, but the others were no better. There was a merchant who still needed to raise the funds expected of him on his most recent trip. An Anbu who had hesitated to turn in his traitorous wife, even a homeless man who had failed to respect a Jounin Elite. Regardless of why they were punished, none of them were spared. A found this a better solution than killing or maiming them as he did in the past. It made them stronger and broke them down, making them all the more loyal… Besides, replacing manpower these days was no simple task. (2)
Finally, his eyes drifted back to the working crowd and landed on a suitable target. An older man representing one of the founding clans. He worked tirelessly and almost flawlessly, but A noticed he hesitated before each call. The Clans rarely suffered in these drills and were expected to be spared due to their status. Likely it was the sole reason the man dared to perform anything short of perfectly. It made A's blood boil. His decision made A narrowed his eyes. While it may cause some inner village tension. A made it a point to knock the clans down to size on occasion. With their numbers and sway, having them anything less than absolutely loyal was a risk. A found occasionally catching them showed the Clans they were not exempt or special. A lesson A found to be most important to be learned.
He did not break his stride and slowly drifted toward the man in an inconspicuous manner. A enjoyed moments like this, it was the essence of a true leader. To crack down on one's men was to show them you cared. All the same A, made sure not to make his target aware of his attention, so drawn into the workout, the man did not notice him until he was on top of him. The man flinched as A made his attention and presence known.
"The timing of your calls is off, your posture is off, and I detect a lack of enthusiasm." A spoke emotionlessly. He did not allow the joy he felt at his soldier's fear nor his intention to show, from the trembling as the man who continued the workout and calls even as addressed. It was the subtlety of this game A enjoyed. The absolute control over the man he wielded over him. The man was wiser than most; if he had stopped, A would've accelerated this. "You may address me and pause the drill."
The man collapsed, sputtered, and even dry heaved pathetically. A sense of resentment for him grew at his open show of weakness. The man struggled to catch his breath but even then it did nothing for his nerves. "M-my Lord, I would never. In my growing age I lose my breath more easily, and my calls are off due to this!"
"You think age is a proper excuse for this pathetic display? I could accept such if you were using your full ability…"
"I am my Lord, I assure you! I would not dare to offer you anything less during the morning drill!" he cried out, terrified.
"So you suggest I am lying?" A asked incredulously.
"Of course not, Lord!"
"Then am I mistaken?"
"I—yo-you. No, my Lord, such is not possible…" The man trailed off, having realized the folly of appealing to A. A inwardly smiled at the man cowering before him. This was what true power looked like…
A allowed a brow to raise. "Then you realize what you daring to do such means…" The man cried out in fear and dropped into the lowest bow A had ever seen. His face in the dirt and utterly demeaning himself in an attempt to appeal for mercy.
"Please, Lord, I did not mean anything by it. Spare me!"
"Spare you?" A asked rhetorically. "That would suggest I am sparing you from some form of punishment or suffering. I merely offer you to display the power within you. You should thank me for offering the chance to redeem your honor among your peers. Especially after such a shameful display…"
"T-thank you, my lord." The man said pitifully, tears streaming down his face. A finally remembered who the man was. Royama Yari is a veteran Jounin and member of the Yari Clan. A powerful clan of the Cloud which wielded the unique Static Bloodline.
"Then you know what must be done. Stand and prepare yourself for this endeavor." A ordered with no empathy for the terrified man. The weak could not elicit such from him, if a man or woman choose to be weak they had no right to complain when the strong did as they wished. As the man slowly and with shaky legs raised to his feet, A smiled openly. The drill was good, but this was why he indeed did it. A show of force was great for keeping his men in line. So, for those A found failing, he had a particular exercise for them. A spar with their Lord, one A would ensure stayed with them and everyone watching. The man trembled as the others stopped working and formed around the two. Whenever a spar was necessary, A always had them pause and watch. All the better to ensure they received the lesson he taught the victim.
The man nervously drew a kunai, his nerves causing him to drop it and clumsily pick it up from the ground. A cracked his neck, released his robe, and left it to fall to the ground. He removed his undershirt but kept his weights on. He wouldn't need the extra speed…
"I am ready Royama, this sanctioned spar between us for the morning drill will now commence." A ordered silence filled the plateau at the decree. Royama flinched but did not move, fearfully staring at A.
"Lord, please… I surrender; I could not bring myself to-"
Royama could not finish his lie as A's fist buried itself into his ribs with an audible crack, A could feel at least three ribs shatter from the blow. Royama could only groan in pain as he collapsed against A's fist with his full weight. "Enough with your bullshit. If you are man enough to fail these drills, you are man enough to face your Lord earnestly." A told the man with a giant smile.
A shoved Royama back quickly and backhanded him so hard he tumbled across the plateau in a ball, nearly careening over the edge from the blow. A appeared in his path before he could, kicking him in the back with such force he flew back to the center of the crowd. The crowd parted to avoid Royama flying through the air and A slowly marching to him. Royama scrambled to his feet quickly and threw his kunai desperately for A's head. A caught it easily and spat at the man hatefully as he drew close. Blurring behind him, A stabbed the kunai into the back of the man's knee, dropping him to both with a scream from the man. Royama cried out in pain and shock as A calmly placed a hand on his shoulder.
"I find people who allow themselves to be weak like yourself can only learn from the best of teachers, pain. Remember this feeling and embarrassment today. The way it made you feel and the way your peers looked upon you. For whenever you fail as you did today you subject the Cloud as whole to the same." A lecture to the man. Royama shook violently either from pain, fear, or shock.
Ryoma recovered with a gasp. His wild and fearful eyes met A's own. They were filled with desperation and fear. Despite how much he feared A he had submitted to him at this moment all the same. Now to ensure he was too fearful to ever go against him…"Lord, I am sorry; please have mercy!"
He spat again to hide his smile. "I offer you better, redemption… IRON CLAW!" A closed his grip with his full strength. He felt his hand wrapped around his vertebrae, he felt the bone shatter as he used his full grip strength, and he felt his fingers punch through his skin like it was paper, blood coating his hand as he gripped. A had to stop his glee from showing on his face.
Royama's scream of pain was more of a shriek; it died out, however, as the man succumbed to shock. His arm fell bonelessly at first, then the rest of him as he passed out. A stared down at the maimed man before he kicked him across the clearing toward the medical tent near the other punished. "Heal him up and get him going with the others. It's clear he needs it." A marched back through the crowd as they continued as if nothing happened. They knew better than to speak out; instead they continued on after thanking A, utter loyalty…
A, Mabui, and his Anbu Commander all walked over to the side out of earshot of the others. With that little display over the workout was good to continue without him. Whenever he did so brutally they always spent the next few days working extra zealously.
A walked to the edge and stared off into the forest as the other two waited for his word. "I feel prepared for the day. Let's discuss some matters; how have things progressed regarding our missing spies?"
The Anbu commander answered, "They, as expected, never reported back. We decided to investigate the matter and sent several Anbu to do so secretly. They found evidence of disposed-of bodies at the sight the Leaf had been during the exams. While it is impossible to be certain who they were, considering it was the last place we know they went, it is more than likely they were discovered and dealt with."
"A shame but not an unexpected outcome." A answered with a frown. The Leaf had always been like that, a persistent thorn in his side that refused to be dealt with. He would ensure they paid; in fact, he already had. "All the same, our next move will work despite that failure. Did the Bounty Offices approve of my request, Mabui?"
"They sent back correspondence with the rest of the mail this morning. They initially resisted but relented upon giving them the bribe, as you had suggested. "The noted participants from all five villages' details and rewards were given and received by them as you asked. Including one of our own…" Mabui trailed off purposely.
A smiled to himself at such. Likely, his captain had the same question when he had received the order, but he had been much too cowardly to raise it. Mabui, despite being weaker, had the gall to do so, without openly questioning him, "Perfect. With those new bounties in effect, our enemies will be pressured now more than ever. And while I catch that you are unsure of our own being included, it is necessary. Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Gaara of the Sand, Fuu of the Waterfall, Kurotsuchi of the Stone, and more. These cooperative exams gave us one thing we can use, an extensive list of the most promising future prospects of the Elemental Nations. With bounties out on them, the villages must safeguard our concerns. And with me allowing Samui to be marked, they will never know who is responsible. Making a play without outing ourselves… Soon, the Cloud will be what it was always meant to be. (3)
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Porume / Shikamaru's POV (Hidden Meeting Place of KDA - Leaf Village)
Evening
The life of councilmen and the head of the Department of Shinobi/Civilian relationships was a busy and often demanding one. Usually, Porume shamefully had to be a distant father to his kids and wife. Off and on the clock, Porume spent his life serving the Leaf with dedication. A duty and task he was more than willing to fulfill. His father had worked hard to provide a meager living for his family, and Porume was determined to do better. The only problem is his lack of skill to serve as a shinobi and his lack of Intelligence to be notable in a more clerical position.
Luckily, Porume had one skill that proved invaluable to him. He was a people person; his smile was often described as disarming, his jokes broke tension with ease, and he had a knack for knowing just what to say. A skill that has proven valuable for his home. Shinobi were responsible for providing a sizable portion of funding and the entirety of military and intelligence work. However, civilians generated the overwhelming majority of market influence, public opinion, and population. The two needed to work in tandem to make the Leaf great, and Porume was skilled in helping with such. For years, he smoothed things over, calmed his heads, and even manipulated them if need be. All to ensure the relationship between Shinobi and Civilians is always maintained. And therefore their village was the best it could in all aspects. A job Porume had loved so much that he dedicated all his time to it. Until recently…
As a man constantly racing between businesses and clans alike for all sorts of dealings, Porume had learned many things. He had learned the full extent of damage the Kyuubi had cost. The number of Shinobi and Civilians who live alike who were lost to the savage beast's attack. The physical, mental, and often it seemed spiritual scars that that night had left. As well as the universal relief between both parties, when the Kyuubi had been stopped and slain that night. If nothing else, Porume and other villagers of the Hidden Leaf could rest with ease, knowing it would never happen again… (4)
Or so they had been told. Porume had been there the day Hiruzen informed the entire village of Minato's sacrifice, and he had also been there the day that criminal Ikam exposed the truth. The Kyuubi had not been slain but sealed into a new vessel. Into a human boy, Naruto Uzumaki. Porume was somewhat aware of the nature of jinchuriki; he even knew just how unlikely the beast escaping was. Yet one thing ate at his mind: the people, a sizable vocal portion of them, Shinobi and Civilian alike, were furious about such a thing. They didn't care if it was safe and guaranteed; the fact the beast that had caused them so much pain was alive and well in any way was an insult. It was terrible for the morale of the village as a whole. Porume knew something had needed to be done. Someone needed to stop this slow forming rift through the village. And Porume knew he was the man to stop it. But he needed help…
He had tested the waters with council members first. Hiro had been an easy choice; Porume had been aware of him skimming money from the village funds for years and had built quite a bit of wealth. Using that as blackmail had Hiro following his orders without failure. Fubuki had been a much simpler catch; the man was open with his hatred of the jinchuriki, something Porume could understand given his construction position considering the damage to infrastructure from the attack, and with a mere mention of the idea of going at it, he had joined without hesitation. Jack, the Head of Agriculture, and Qurani, the Head of Education, had been tempting targets but only pitched in if it seemed like a safe bet in most matters. He had attempted to use Usami, but she expressed sympathy for the beast. So she was not to be trusted. But Porume had been satisfied with political support he had gained all the same; power was next.
Finding Shinobi with a bone to pick with the Kyuubi was easy. Finding powerful ones willing to bend the rules to get at him was nearly impossible. After weeks of testing Porume hadn't found anyone influential and trustworthy enough to join his fold. Until he had met a certain Nara. A lifelong Chunin in his forties and long banished from his clan. Known for his intelligence and defiance, Nara was a pariah, but a useful one…
Meeting with Shozu Nara had been a shockingly simple task. The man frequented bars with such frequency that it was as simple as checking each. Porume had not offered much before the Nara had understood his plan in its entirety. And to Porume's joy convincing him over to his side had been easier still. For Shozu seemed to hate the Kyuubi more than even his own clan. Though Porume had never found out why Shozu was so dedicated…
With everything in place the two had formed the KDA; the Kyuubi Disposal Agency. A group of Shinobi and civilians alike had united and sought to remove the Kyuubi, from their homes, by any means necessary. Their current HQ was a building in "development" donated by Fubuki; with the building in infinite development, it was assured no one would look into it, and with Hiro offering funding, they quickly discovered their potential. (5)
With three council members' subtle support, it was easy to spread the word of Naruto and Kushina's status, with Porume drumming up support on the side even more accessible to win them over to the KDA's vision. Pamphlets highlighting the dangers of jinchuriki, Shinobi, and civilians bolstering hatred in public spaces were slowly turning over those in the middle and sympathizers alike. It was somewhat dishonest, but Porume slept well, knowing Kyuubi's fall would be the best for all. The progress was slow, but soon they intended to make a bold move. To use their combat force for the first time. For Shozu had discovered fascinating intel.
Naruto Uzumaki was missing, supposedly in a strange distant land, leading an effort to save others. Worse yet, supposedly, the Leaf could not attempt to send aid; there was a chance the blight would never return. Something the KDA enjoyed immensely; it would please Porume if they could ensure he didn't return, but Shozu had assured him such was impossible. However, Shozu had another plan he had suggested; with Naruto missing, Kushina was alone, and with the village in such a turbulent place, a move could be made.
Hiro hired several of Fubuki's men to go on a "drunken" rampage near the south edge of the Konoha, which just so happened to be on the opposite side from the Uzumaki Residence in the north. While the Police Force and patrolling shinobi alike were busy dealing with the crowd they could strike without worry of interruption. From his intel, Kushina was a considerably powerful Jounin who openly used the foul power from the Kyuubi, but a group of ten experienced Chunin would surely be enough. Tonight, they would either ensure the Leaf was Kyuubi-free or, at the very least, provide one's demise. Porume sat at the large desk at the back of the room, this was the meeting place for the leaders of the KDA; Hiro, Fubuki, Shozu, and of course Porume. Various volunteer shinobi and civilians worked on pamphlets and fliers spreading propaganda about the Kyuubi, Naruto, and Kushina Uzumaki in equal measure. The Shinobi all were arming and preparing themselves for the ambush. Porume watched Shozu and lectured the group on strategies as they prepared. This plan was finally bearing fruit…
Shozu was a decently powerful Nara who was rumored to be stronger than he let on. His buzzed, dyed blue hair left him not looking the part, and the oversized, puffy designer jacket he wore further enforced it. The man looked like a delinquent, unlike the Nara's he shared blood with. The female Imuchi Yamanaka was with him, a member of the infamous Yamanaka Clan who had once been a twin; her brother had perished however during the attack of the Kyuubi. The woman was taller than most as her sibling had been and only had a single eye; she had lost the other when she had lost his sibling. His other most trusted ally was Chama Akimichi, he was more hesitant than the others, but as often displayed by the Akimichi followed the wisdom of Shozu as they did the Nara's. Even by Akimichi standards, Chama was portly, and his chubby face made it look like he was always sweating and tired. An Ino-Shika-Cho formation, A retired Hyuga Jounin, several Inuzuka, and even an Aburame. A rag tag group Porume admitted, but they were the start of the end of the Kyuubi.
The group of Shinobi sat in the mostly cleared "storage" room. The large garage door intended for delivery served as the entrance. Once Shozu was done preparing them it would open and the KDA's soldiers would race out into the night. Porume approached the Shinobi with a bounce in his step. It always filled him with energy to see his career path in action. While it was for less-than-ethical reasons, he was watching the ideal of his department be actualized.
"Ah, it fills me with such joy watching our soldiers of the KDA prepare for battle." Porume complimented with a bow as Shozu turned to face him.
"I don't care if we're soldiers; whatever we are, we finally have the chance to make a move tonight." Shozu spat back fiercely. "The distraction should be soon, right? If we move before then, we'll be stopped before we can kill her."
"Of course, Hiro had just sent me word over the radio. I merely came to inform you of that and wish you all luck. You won't have very long, maybe five minutes in total. Are you confident you'll be able to overpower her in time?" Porume asked worriedly.
"That's what I'm worried about." Chama nervously spoke. "I don't mind killing her, but word is she's no joke, and if she uses the beast…"
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
"Don't worry about that. We have numbers on our side. Besides, I learned a special technique for her and her son should the need arise." Shozu assured, raising his now glowing hand. "I bribed some members of Intelligence to get some files on jinchuriki. They are known to be absurdly powerful when using the beast chakra and tend to be even more durable than most Shinobi. Normally, even with numbers, she'd be a bit much for ten Chunin. However, I discovered the seal they used to bind it. I'm no Fuijutsu expert, but apparently, they used the Four Elements seal to seal the Kyuubi; I don't quite understand it, but I did learn this little technique, the Five Elements Seal, if it is placed on top of it, we can count on it weakening the bitch. Supposedly, it'll cut off her access to the beast entirely."
"Meaning the bitch will be every bit as human as us when we kill her." Imuchi chimed in.
"Exactly. Besides, I'm a Nara; we never just have one plan," Shozu said with humor. "Should we start to lose, we'll retreat. While we would have been fighting the entire time, several Genin under the KDA would have planted explosives around the whole block. Even if we can't kill her directly, we'll blow her sky-high. She dies tonight," Shozu promised darkly.
However, their conversation was interrupted as a grating sound cut through the building. The gathered Shinobi tensed and flinched as they witnessed an odd sight. Two normal-looking katana had somehow pierced the thick metal garage door. The group gasped as the katana began to slowly slice upwards. Both slowly but surely cutting a giant rectangle through the door. Upon meeting, the two katanas withdrew, and for a moment, there was silence.
"Shit!" Shozu cried out, in a hurry he grabbed Imuchi, and threw her to run with him; he shoved Chama towards Porume, who gasped as the large man lifted him with ease. "Bug out!" The Nara whispered as the three raced to the back of the KDA's hideout. The other members were stunned and confused; Porume was as well.
"Why in Kami's dear name are we fleeing-"
Porume stopped in shock as a thunderous crash sounded, breaking the cut garage door down and creating a new door. The culprit seemed to be a large smoking hand that dispersed into the building, forming a large crowd of smoke around the entrance.
"Smoke? Is that Dez?" Porume asked in shock. However, he was not answered immediately as Shozu forced a mask over Porume's face. He went still and he realized why. They were hiding his identity.
"No doubt," Shozu whispered back. "Word is the Police Force is looking into us after my failed attack on the damn Kyuubi, this is a raid."
"That it would be youse miserable bastards." A voice assured as Dez, Chief of the Police force marched through the smoke. "No need to proclaim your innocence; we've been watching this little powwow for a while. You're all officially under arrest by the authority of the police force. Don't attempt to weasel your way out, Hokage-sama already gave the okay for this little raid."
"It always helps to be patient. It makes it easy to build a case when they state their intent to commit crime so openly." Another lazier voice chimed in. A lazy-eyed young man and a young woman with twin buns in her hair followed Dez. Porume and Shozu flinched at once. Shikamaru Nara, the heir of the Nara Clan, was present, as was his teammate Tenten. Both had been shown to be fairly strong. And with Nara looking into things, the KDA was in grave danger.
Shozu audibly growled with hatred as he locked eyes with Shikamaru. "What the hell is a Nara doing with the Police Force?!" He cried out.
"Well, it just so happens this KDA is targeting a good friend of mine. See, I'm close with Naruto Uzumaki, close enough to know for certain he'd be pretty broken up if Kushina was killed. Hell, I would be, too. So once I heard wind of you drumming up support for this little group, I decided to join my own organization to oppose you. You're looking at the newest Lieutenant of the Police Force, Shikamaru Nara. Don't worry about that little distraction, by the way. Shizune and Sai will take care of that." (6)
"Fitting," Shozu said with forced calm. "However, it's insulting that you think the three of you will be enough to stop us. We'll kill you and ensure they never find your bodies. You should've brought back up! GET THEM!"
With his cry, the seven remaining Chunin hesitated before slowly marching forward. They surely did not wish to do this, but Shozu knew their fear of being outed would ensure they listened.
"Of course this goes pear shaped! I was hoping to smash these creeps' heads!" Tenten roared angrily as several weapons spun around her with an audible buzz. She raced forward, meeting the group of three Inuzuka for a spirited round of close combat.
"Can't leave a lady to do all da hard work!" Dez cried out as he smashed into the Hyuga attempting to blindside Tenten, and spat a ball of smoke at an Inuzuka. Shozu watched as the young lady engaged with the Inuzuka, seemingly matching all three; the Hyuga and one of the remaining Inuzuka attempted to double-team Dez. He was holding his own, spitting out smoke in belts. Shikamaru seemed to sigh as he dodged beetles and the wild slashes of the remaining Inuzuka. Even the Civilians present picked up anything close by to attempt to attack the interlopers. Though noticeably were rightfully hesitant.
"Yes, the KDA stands strong!" Porume called with glee.
"Yeah, well, I don't intend to risk it," Shozu said with finality. Porume watched in shock as he nodded to the other two, and the three stepped out the back door as the others were fighting.
"We can't leave the others!" Porume cried out in anguish. He had worked hard to assemble this force, who could allow it to be snuffed out.
"Yes, we can." Shozu countered. "We can't afford for me or you to be caught, it'll be the end for the KDA. Furthermore, nothing there will actually lead to the other council members or anyone important. It'll work out in time if we make a clean getaway!" He cried as the four raced out; however, they stopped as they saw a woman waiting for them at the front. Tsunade Senju, one of the three Sannins, stood guard.
"No fucking way!" Imuchi cried out in fear.
"We're screwed!" Chama agreed, dropping Porume stunned.
"Don't be so quick to count me out," Shozu declared as he stood with the two in front of Porume. I have a plan for her, too; we just need to buy some time."
Porume watched in with a sinking feeling in his gut. Despite Shozu's words, he knew of Tsunade and her power. They stood no chance…
"Are you sure, Shozu?" Imuchi asked hesitantly but noticeably calmer now that Shozu spoke. "I mean if he has a plan…
"Shozu wouldn't lie to us!" Chama agreed with ease. "The Ino-Shika-Cho can take anyone!"
"To think the Nara found you all so quickly…" Tsunade spoke congenitally as she approached the three Shinobi and disguised council members. "I didn't intend to get involved originally, but when Dez mentioned a whole little company dedicated to this, I knew I had to. You see, you all are targeting Naruto, and he's someone I'm watching closely, I can't allow you little freaks to interfere. Besides, I happen to like Kushina; we need more women with attitudes in this world."
"Chama, go all out! Imuchi back him up! Give me one opening, and I'll take her down with one move!" Shozu assured as his two friends raced forward. Porume watched in awe as Chama became larger than the building they had hidden in and launched a decisive jab at Tsunade. The woman casually flicked the attack away despite its side while dodging a kunai thrust from Imuchi, nearly beheading her before she just barely managed to dodge.
Porume's spectating was broken, however, when he was snatched and carried off by Shozu as Chama and Imuchi fought a losing battle. Due to Shozu, the two landed on top of a roof and raced from rooftop to rooftop to escape. "You're friends! They stand no chance against Tsunade!" Porume pointed out. "We need to go back, perhaps if we use a sneak attack.
"They don't. Hell, with her attitude, they'll be lucky to survive at all. And even if I did somehow hit her with something I know for a fact she'll just recover nearly instantly. Trust me, it's the only way for us to get away. We'll have to assume someone will be captured and squeal, meaning we, and the KDA as a whole, are officially on the run." Shozu informed the Porume.
Porume felt dread becoming his being as he realized not only his career as councilman and Head of a department was over but his life as a citizen of the Leaf. "My life is over…"
"No no it's… well… maybe it is… or should be." Shozu drawled off as he stopped racing and dropped Porume roughly. "Tsunade is no joke; even together, Chama and Imuchi won't last long, and then she'll be on my trail. However, if there was a distraction that would delay a medic… perhaps a dying potential valuable prisoner…" Shozu concluded darkly.
Porume gasped as he realized Shozu's intention. He desperately began to crawl away. This Nara was insane! The Kyuubi wasn't worth this! But before he got anywhere, Porume was stopped, by a crushing blow to his back. He heard his own bones snap from the blow, and he choked as he hacked up blood. Porume attempted to look up to Shozu but was forced face down, and he couldn't. Instead, the weight and pain increased as Shozu leaned into the foot jammed into his upper back. "Now, now, don't worry, I won't kill ya, just maim you a bit. Need you alive to stop Tsunade from pursuing me." Shozu roughly ripped the mask from his face. "A traitorous big fish like a councilman is quite the bait. More than enough for them to forget about some small-time shinobi."
"I'll tell everything when they interrogate me!" Porume threatened and begged in equal measure.
"Eh, we're past that, sadly, old man." Shizo flippantly replied. "Even if you didn't, Chama or Imuchi surely will. So, no skin off my neck; the only viable course is to start the KDA over. I'll make sure this isn't the end of our dream. But sadly this will likely be the end of you."
"Please, the village needs me!" Porume begged, but it turned into a scream as he felt a searing pain surge into his arm. Whipping his head to the side, he saw Shozu wildly and violently slashing at his left arm with a kunai. The small blade was sharp but struggled to deal with bone. Porume screamed in agony as each slash cut through his skin and slowly worked its way through his bone. Porume cried and writhed, but Shozu proved too strong to escape or even free himself momentarily. The pain only increased as Porume's vision darkened. He felt distant, unaware; he heard a thud as the pain in his arm changed. It was not lessened, but it now felt less searing and more icy. Shozu lifted his foot as Porume sobbed brokenly. He attempted to clutch his left hand, but something was off; he couldn't feel it. He opened his eyes and focused past the tears and saw the grizzly sight of his arm being cut off shortly after the elbow. Blood squirting from the stump and sawed off bone peeking out.
"Enjoy the torture~!" Shozu taunted as he raced off, leaving the bleeding-out man to be discovered.
Shikamaru's POV
Shikamaru dived under a desk as a swarm of insects swooped by quickly missing him from above. This offered no true rest for Shikamaru however as the Inuzuka suddenly appeared thrusting his foot through the desk and attempting to stomp in his face. Shikamaru cursed as he threw up his leg and managed to kick away the attack, he drew a kunai at the same time and attempted to whip it for his face. The Hyuga only smiled however as he began to twirl. But Shikamaru offered his own smile as he stopped his feint of throwing the kunai and made a hand sign. Right as the Hyuga activated Kaiten Shikamaru activated a substitution with a chair near the Aburame who had kept his distance.
The shaky Aburame flinched, obviously not expecting the move. Shikamaru however had planned this from the start. Without missing a beat Shikamaru lunged forward slashing at the neck of the Aburame with the kunai. While these shinobi did not seem all that impressive the Aburame managed to leap away from the attack. Shikamaru however had expected such. Recently having cracked one handed hand signs in training he used his free hand to activate his shadow possession, in mid air from the leap the Aburame was helpless as Shikamru's shadow enveloped his. The two froze and suddenly stood in matching posture. Shikamaru smiled as he positioned the Aburame in front of him. The Inuzuka drew close once again bearing his teeth, but Shikamaru lunged to the left forcing the Aburame to do the same and to the Inuzuka's dismay, leaving him wide open. The palm thrust was normally a clubbing blow, but the Inuzuka used their claws to make it a piercing one. His hand stabbed into the chest of the Aburame with a squelch and burst of blood. The now dead Aburame slumped to the ground in front of the Inuzuka who seemed stunned. That left him wide open…
"Shadowy Grasp Jutsu!" Shikamaru called, suddenly hands burst from beneath the fallen Aburame and wrapped around the Hyuga, with a flick of his hand they proceeded to beat the man into unconsciousness. Shikamaru sighed tiredly as he checked out Tenten.
A female Inuzuka attempted to use fang over fang to smash into Tenten. But his teammate surrounded herself with a metal dome and caused the woman to smash into it headfirst knocking her out, Tenten released the shield and sent a volley of arrows flying for the other Inuzuka attempting to flank her, killing the man in the rain of arrows as the littered and pinned the man to the ground. The last attempted to blindside Tenten from behind but two katana floating around Tenten blocked their kick and managed to deflect the blow to send the man stumbling back. Tenten smiled as she formed a massive club in her hands and swung it as she spun, the club smashed into the man's ribs with force causing the man to careen through the entrance they made. Shikamaru was scarcely surprised, Tenten ever since she had fought Naruto she became a different person. More confident and powerful with her new power, she relished the chance for combat and even seemed protective over Naruto now.
Dez handled himself seemingly worse, the man offered no offense as the Hyuga and Inuzuka worked in tandem to overwhelm him. Seemingly dodging all fleeing while spewing smoke from his mouth. However Shikamaru raised a brow as he noticed both were slowing down. The dance of the two attempting to land a blow on Dez went for mere seconds yet both were breathing heavily and moving sluggishly as it went on. Before long both could barely stand leaving them defenseless as Dez gently knocked both out with chops the necks. "Sorry boys, most can't handle the smokes I tote." Dez informed the group. "Smoke Style: Suffocating Cloud."
Shikamaru nodded at the group, the rest of the police force had arrived and were already detaining the violent civilians and defeated shinobi. Before he flinched as he realized who was missing. "Where did Shozu go?"
"He must've tried to escape out the front." Tenten assured. "Meaning the poor bastard ran into Lady Tsunade."
"Let's go and see." Shikamaru said as the trio marched to the front. As they exited they saw a woman cursing wildly from the ground though noticeably not moving. Tsunade was seated on top of a defeated Akimichi resting as if bored.
"These two and two more attempted to escape." Tsunade informed the three.
"You let the other two go, Boss?" Dez asked quizzically.
"These two stayed behind to delay me, besides I sensed they should run into the other two teammates of Shikamaru, it seems Shizune and Sai made short work of the "drunkards"." Tsunade said flippantly. At her words Shikamaru smiled as Shizune and Sai arrived with a chained up man.
"Lady Tsunade!" Shizune called with a bow. "We stopped those men as requested, on the way and found this man badly wounded and dying."
"Pretty sure he's related to the others." Sai agreed with a smile. "To think Porume Rumi of the Council would be involved. It seems our friend Naruto has some impressive enemies."
"So Shozu betrayed him then?" Shikamaru asked with a raised brow. "Such a damn drag, to think this raid on the KDA was this hard and we didn't even get them all. I have the feeling this isn't over yet by a long shot…" (7)
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Ino's POV (Outside of Uzumaki Residence - Hidden Leaf Village)
Evening
Ino had always considered herself a bold person. Perhaps not the bravest but certainly bold enough to make up for it. She was confident most of the time and pursued what she wanted in earnest. Or at least she had been until she met Naruto, something about the man had her always questioning what she did. Yet she couldn't help but seek his approval, he had shown guts and determination that Ino only wished she had. Strength that she hadn't even known possible all while being one of the most kind people she ever met. Naruto could be a bit of an idiot, the blonde was impulsive and a bit of a clown, yet the light hearted joy he brought around him and the earnest care he had shown had won her over.
Ino could admit she had been falling for Naruto longer than she had known. Her feelings had even been somewhat revealed both during her fight with Samui and conversations with Naruto but he seemed to still be unaware. He even caught on to damn Samui's flirting but not her own! How was that even possible, why did she have to fall for the one guy in his early twenties that wasn't obsessed with romance and woman! (8)
But with her new training and found confidence she had decided to pursue Naruto in earnest he had been summoned to an entirely different world! How was she gonna bewitch him if he wasn't even here! Worse yet he was in danger and hadn't even brought his teammates as back up. Instead, arrange a team of Shino, Hinata, and Sasuke to back them up. Not only was Naruto once again diving head first into danger but he yet again did it without his own team. She needed advice and an angle to convince Naruto to settle down with the life risking missions and realize that he had a hot teammate he could be wooing!
The concern of his safety and refusal to ask for help, and her determination to finally win Naruto's affection had led her to one choice. There was only one person who could understand Naruto as deeply if not more so than her and understand her perspective, as well as having enough influence to aid her in her conquest. Naruto's mother Kushina Uzumaki.
Ino knew Kushina, she was practically a friend. She had been over to their house a ton of times over recently and even had shared drinks with the woman. She had even discovered them cuddling after their first night as drinking as a team. She seemed to like Ino and Ino loved her confidence and caring nature. Kushina obviously had been where Naruto had gotten most of his personality from, and yet Ino was certain his father had to do with his more intense quirks. So as she marched up the steps to the front door of the Uzumaki abode she swallowed her hesitation and knocked on the door.
She would ask for advice and help regarding Naruto's repeated habit of finding life threatening danger. And less important, she intended to receive Kushina's blessing to pursue Naruto. A bit odd, she was aware the male usually did such, but as oblivious as Naruto seemed it might be best to be the aggressor here. Besides she was aware plenty of people wouldn't like her with the "demon", but Ino had swore to not let the opinions of others dictate her actions anymore.
Despite her bravery and determination she had reminded herself she had felt dread as she heard steps from within the home. A voice sounded out from within, slightly slurring and threatening in tone.
"I swear to Kami if you're here to "Harass the demon" I'll remove you from this plain of existence!" Kushina's fiery tone bound from within the home as she whipped open the door, with a blur of steel Ino flinched as the tip of a katana in her face.
'Was this my best idea…' Ino thought worriedly as she raised her hands in surrender.
"Ino! You beautiful gal you! I thought there would be more bastards! Come in!" Kushina explained with jarring joy as she saw it was Ino. Declaring her a guest Kushina turned and Ino marveled as the door seemed to shimmer. Kushina glanced back and noticed her hesitation. "A barrier seal, with things so turbulent at home and with me being the protector of the home I have no choice but to make preparations. As long as that barrier is up anyone who isn't on my whitelist or audibly invited inside will find themself consumed by flames. You'll be fine, you're on the whitelist ya know? Gotta keep my son's beautiful teammate safe!" Kushina joked before placing her katana on an ornamental sheathe next to the door. And walked to the back where Ino could hear others talking excitedly.
"Great , I wanted the chance to talk one on one and manage to find her not only when she's tense and tipsy, but has guests.' Ino inwardly complained as she stepped in. 'But I won't back down!' Ino marched into the home taken in the familiar surroundings as she gathered her remaining courage.
The home of the Uzumaki was one Ino always found fashionable. It seemed Kushina had decorated and worked on it herself over the years as a single parent and had done well. The walls had recently been painted a pale red with black trim, there were several Clan flags and pictures of Kushina Naruto at various ages. Even one capturing a little kid Naruto, and Kushina. Both looked younger and more wild, but more than anything happy. It was the day of the first academy, a day Ino remembered having thought Naruto was a dork. How things had changed…
"My son was adorable as a runt wasn't he?" Kushina asked her, looking back and noticing her hesitation. She seemed to notice Ino's tension and had stopped and seemingly seemed almost sober and serious. "Always so earnest and friendly, always chasing some grand dream and finding trouble, Makes a mother worry… though it seems I'm not the only one."
Ino froze her eyes locking upon a familiar orange jumpsuit hung on a rung displayed within a glass case. It was one she recognized all too well, Naruto had often worn it in the early days of the academy. His mother must've saved it as memorabilia. "Yeah I am quite worried over Blondie… we don't even know where he is… or if he is safe or hurt." Ino admitted. "It's part of the reason I'm here." Ino hesitated for a second as she considered Kushina's tone. "Though I imagine it's the worst for you. Are you alright Kushina?"
Kushina smiled warmly at her before snorting playfully. "You really are a good girl Ino, I'm glad you are on the same team as my son, even more so that you look after him. So I imagine you're here for girl talk then?"
Ino rolled her eyes at that. "I'm not a little girl anymore."
"Of course not, but I'm a mother." Kushina agreed. "I always see you a lot as children, even if you become old and gray. Besides, it's called girl talk for a reason, and not because it's childish or catty."
"She's right Princess!" A familiar and similar tipsy voice called from the living room causing Ino to freeze with fear and excitement in equal measure. "Don't be a bitch! Believe it or not we were talking about the Blonde before you arrived!"
Ino looked back towards Kushina with a deadpan. "Are you friends with Anko? Maybe I'll come back later when you're not busy…"
"Nonsense!" Kushina declared appearing behind her and pushing her forward. "As a mother and older woman I find when it comes to advice and serious conversations it helps to have a group of trusted confidants."
"I love Anko but she's a known bitch!" Ino cried as she drug her feet and arrived in the homely living room of Kushina's home. "Who else is here!"
"Yo." Tsume Kiba's mother called with a wave. Mikoto Sasuke's mother was there as well.
"Eh trust me Ino these ladies are more trustworthy than anyone I know!" Kushina assured. "Just don't take their words with a grain of salt."
"More like a cup!" Ino cried as she was shoved into a love seat in the middle of the woman. The Uzumaki was a living room made to be comfortable. There was the love seat Naruto called his own, it was a red number with orange trim, which Ino suspected was why Naruto loved it. To its left was a small couch which Mikoto sat as regally on as Kushina plopped herself down on the other side. Anko sat to her right sitting in a chair backwards bored as she seemed to chug a beer. Tsume looked the most comfortable of all lounging on the floor as she sipped directly from a bottle of wine. "Seems like you've all had plenty."
"Of course Kushina invited Mikoto and myself over for drinks. Drinking and reminiscing is a great way to relax." Tsume answered boredly.
"Our loved ones are in danger." Ino said feeling somewhat defensive about Tsume's seeming nonplussed nature.
"Don't let her tone fool you." Mikoto said with a roll with her eyes as she sipped a flute of wine. "She's worried sick over her Kiba as well. Just remember we're veterans, wearing our emotions on our sleeves is beneath Kunoichi like us."
"Speak for yourself!"
"Speak for yourself!"
Anko and Kushina cried out happily before both downed their beers and seemed to procure another one from nowhere.
Ino offered a small smile and bowed her head as the group burst out from laughter. She was being a bit of a downer and these women, minus Anko, were hurting as well. But she still felt frustrated, why did the one time she went to talk to Kushina one on one she was partying!
However her instincts flared, Ino's head snapped up and she snatched a projectile aimed for her face out of the air casually. Ino blinked as she looked down and discovered a bottle of beer. "Trust me Princess, when you're stuck at home desperately waiting for someone to come back. The game plan is distraction, even I can't do anything as a summoner." Anko assured Ino with a warm smile.
Ino sighed but accepted her offer and cracked open the beer and sipped. However she flinched as one hand wrapped hers and the can trapping them both together, another clutched her face, and one more tiled the can all the way back. Ino almost choked as the beer was forced down her throat, with a gulp she managed to force it down and was freed as she did. She gasped for air and offered a glare for the three culprits to the forced chugging. Anko, Tsume, and Kushina all smiled at her pleased with themselves and settled back down.
"Don't hold it against them." Mikoto said with another roll of her eyes. "They insist we all get drunk on these outings, and since you're seated here that'll include you."
"Besides, from what I saw during the exams you have plenty worthy of discussion for this grand meeting." Tsume said with a shit eating smirk. "Just when I was planning to leave after my Kiba loss I saw your little match up with that bombshell."
"Samui…" Ino growled to herself.
"Talk about a fight with some stakes." Mikoto agreed "And the ending with you decreeing your friendship, so romantic…"
"She has it bad for my son! Ino promise you'll never hurt him!" Kushina cried now, apparently just a bit more drunk. "Damn idiot always getting in trouble."
"Ignore her, she started early." Anko said with a roll of her eyes. "Despite the loss Princess I was almost impressed, you landed a tough cookie however."
"Worse yet she's competition," Tsume added. "A stacked bombshell with the skills to match. Remember when someone was contesting me for my future hubby. Scared the bitch right off, if you want I can show you a trick to break her arm, should be more than enough to scare off the bimbo."
"I don't need to scare her off, and Naruto and I are just friends." Ino contested to the group, however she flinched at the bored stares she received. Damn it she wasn't used to being on the back foot in conversations, she was a psychologically trained woman! "Fine… I well I like Naruto alot… and the whole thing is so damn frustrating!"
"We finally cracked her." Anko whispered to Tsume.
"They always crack eventually." Tsume responded with a calm nod.
Ino ignored both however as she felt a weight begin to lift from her shoulders as she began. "First off I'm hot, not in the arrogant way either, but I've fought off suitors for years now. After all, I was head over heels for Sasuke originally…" Ino flinched as she recognized the awkwardness of bringing up Mikoto's son with her around.
"I take no offense." Mikoto assured with an easy smile. "I love my boy but I detest the fact that all my children inherited their fathers serious nature. Would've been nice to have one lively child, thank Kami for Yuno I suppose."
"Well I finally get over him and manage to fall for a new guy and he doesn't even notice! Worse yet everytime I turn around it's like he's attracted another pretty girl! Ugh and he has no manners, just impulsively doing whatever he pleases. He's always trying to make light of things even when things are so dire, it's like he's not even worried about himself. I mean he's the type to take a kunai for you and then ask you if you're okay. And I mean why does he seem to get involved with everyone's problems. I mean it's all so much and for some reason I like that about him… he's an amazing person, the kind of person anyone would be lucky to have. Naruto makes me look at myself and want to be better, to make him smile that goofy and warm smile at me as much as possible. But he just seems to attract trouble, and doesn't hesitate to face it alone. I just want to be there to help him, make him glow as brightly to others as he does to me. It's weird, I feel like his opinion matters so much more to me than anyone. The whole thing just confused the hell out of me." Ino looked back at the crowd to see them silently stunned.
"Holy shit she has it bad!" Anko exclaimed in shock.
"My boys gonna become a man!" Kushina cried out in joy embracing Mikoto who barely reacted.
"And here I thought you just had the hots for him. But apparently he's denser than cow shit." Tsume concluded.
"That's part of the reason I'm here. During my training for the exams I grew not only in strength but as a person. Before I hesitated because I wasn't sure what I wanted or even if Naruto needed that. But now I realize I have to do something, I can't move on until I do…" Ino declared.
"So that's why she came here. Not only for comfort, but to curry favor with Kushina." Mikoto realized with a nod. Kushina let go of her and her eyes seemed to sharpen.
"I wouldn't say it like that but yes. I decided I want to be with Naruto, and if I want to do that with that thick idiot I need to be up front. So I wanted to make my intentions clear to you, to assure you I'm not some floozy but someone who really sees Naruto. I wanted your support and maybe even help…" Ino trailed off hopefully.
The room was silent as Kushina seemed to think over what she said. Anko and Tsume began to snicker as she rose and marched over Ino. But she could not for the life of her think of what could be funny when Kushina's killing intent filled the room. The woman stopped over to her and loomed over the sitting Ino. Her hair seemed to levitate into the air and her eyes spoke of no mercy.
"You come to my home, drink my booze, and attempt to use me to seduce MY son." Kushina asked, fury coating each syllable.
Ino however met her eyes head on and while she didn't stand she didn't back down either. "Yes. I care about Naruto in a way I never cared about anyone. Anko taught me that a true kunoichi doesn't sit and wait, she gets whatever she wants however she can. And I am the kind of woman who does anything for the people I care about…"
Kushina's killing intent doubled and sweat instantly began to drip down Ino's brow. With each passing moment it seemed to increase, enough to where doubt began to trickle into Ino's mind, however as quickly as it came it went. "Alright sounds like a plan! I like your style Ino and if a good woman like yourself wants to take good care of my son who I am to stand in your way! Besides, I would love blonde grandbabies…" Kushina said with a dreamy smile.
"I think she meant to think and not say the last part." Tsume said with a snicker. "But it seems the next topic has been chosen, and thankfully a fun one."
"Indeed time for seducing 101." Anko agreed with a smile. "If he hasn't been won over yet, a bit of advice from some grade-a hotties like ourselves will have him eating from your palm! I know this trick with your tongue-"
Ino face turned the brightest shade of pink it ever had in her life. And with the four feeding off each other's energy and offering more and more advice, some genuine, some just plain old… well interesting… it was that color the entire night. But with her having been so focused and serious as of late it felt like she had been stressed out all the time. But as she drank and traded jokes and stories (most at her expense) she forgot her worries for the moment. And as she drew even closer to the woman who was her peers she felt happy. And maybe that one trick Anko had described could be useful… one day.