Chapter Text
I don’t own Naruto or its sequel, Boruto, which both belong to Masashi Kishimoto.
“...” Character P.O.V.
‘...’ Character thoughts
“...” Tailed Beast Speaking
“...” Jutsu
Chapter 1: To You, 40,000 Years From Now: The Red Spiral’s Return to Konohagakure
- Remember this well: for the tale of the Uzumaki Clan is told in not only duty, but in blood. -
The world of shinobi as a whole for the past many millennia represents a few things…
Stories of Loss.
The first figure depicts a black-haired man kneeling with his head bowed down, gazing at the body in the room, which belongs to someone close to his heart. This person has unexpectedly departed this world, having met his end on the battlefield.
All while tears of blood began to form in his eyes and drip from his eyes onto the tatami.
Stories of Regret.
A young boy sits on his knees before a suit of fine family armor, adorned with an antlered helm, his eyes red with grief as silent tears fall down his face.
He bows his head so deeply that it touches the tatami mats beneath him, as a sniffle escapes him.
Regretful at not being able to help the one who previously wore it.
Stories of Tradition.
Here, a young individual with red hair kneels before fifty-four other similar individuals on either side of him. An older gentleman with red hair sits in front of the three younger individuals at the head of the assembled group.
And before the four young individuals, small knives rest on each small table in front of them. All of these blades lay in a fire bowl, heated for the work they were designed to do…
…amputation of the ring finger above the metacarpal bone.
Stories of Courage.
Before an army stands a solitary red-haired figure clad in armor, his katana drawn, staring down thousands with glowing purple eyes.
Awaiting for them to come bearing down upon him like ships…
…and he the storm.
Ready to destroy them…
…ready to decimate their ranks.
Stories of Honour.
Two red individuals stand before a Bloodgood maple bearing red leaves overlooking a lake.
The younger and oldest of five, and an older gentleman who is old enough to be the younger’s uncle, are conversing about the meaning of honor.
The elder imparts his wisdom and counsel to the younger boy, who gazes thoughtfully at his wooden kodachi, appearing deeply engaged in what is being said.
Stories of Warriors.
Atop a hill, a small army stands ready for battle. Severely outnumbered, they look down at a foreign army disembarking from its ships and preparing for a protracted invasion to expand into the mainland.
The commander on top of the hill prepares to sacrifice both his life and the lives of his subordinates…
…all to buy time and possibly slow some of the invasion.
Stories of Vengeful Spirits.
Standing tall are four warriors.
A Samurai, a Hunter, a Ronin, and an Assassin. All of whom are covered in both old and fresh blood and a black substance reminiscent of black ink.
Seeming to be four legendary warriors of the past from the continent’s past. Resurrected with a newfound vigor due to the evil and demonic Oni unleashed upon the mortal realm from a hidden village's search and pursuit for more power and resources in a war effort.
Resurrected to battle both the hordes of the foreign army and the Oni and the enemies of their shared clan.
Stories of Ghosts.
Nineteen individuals stand united, ready to make personal sacrifices for the sake of their families, clans, people, villages, and nations.
Choosing an alternative path that will inevitably lead them to becoming a terrible thought. Wraiths brought to life to protect and save their people, clans, and loved ones.
Larger-than-life characters feared by the invaders yet loved by the locals as their protectors.
Ghosts…
…born from the darkness.
Stories of Solitude.
The figure is a young, black-haired individual standing atop a rock.
He looks out at the ocean as the waves crash in during sunset. Meanwhile, he bears a sorrowful expression, with tears of blood streaming from his closed eyes.
His teeth gritted as his mind and spirit writhed in the agony of a significant loss and a great truth.
Stories of Force.
In this instance, the figure depicted is an enormous man whose body is completely covered in a thick layer of lightning from head to toe.
He stands with many behind him, ready to fight and die at his side.
Stories of Opportunity.
A red-haired man sits on a red boulder in front of many of his fellow red-haired clan members and shinobi from his village, still holding a surprising form that astonishes everyone even after all this time.
Meanwhile, some of his childhood friends came over to play rock, paper, and scissors to settle an old bet they had made and to pass the time.
Enjoying themselves after a very long battle, as many others come over to watch the game.
Never bothering even to notice or see the lover of the individual sitting on the red boulder. She observes their game from afar, a smile etched on her face.
Stories of Promise.
The figure here is a woman wearing a black cloak. She stands on a high viewpoint, which allows her to survey the surrounding area and the steep hill below.
However, the woman’s gaze is currently positioned on something outside of this viewpoint, which causes her to deliver a severe glare.
What she stares at is her red-haired lover, who returns the same look with equal enthusiasm.
Stories of the Enemy.
In this instance, the sixth figure is the same man with red hair who stands at the front of an army, accompanied by his four siblings, facing a great horde on the opposing side...
…ready to do battle.
Stories of Vengeance.
Three shadowy figures stand tall, gazing in specific directions that represent the unique paths they each took.
They possess similar clan insignia engraved onto the backs of their clothes in the form…
…of a fan.
Stories of Enlightenment.
Two figures stand side by side in battle against a monster.
Both figures stand tall, displaying pale-colored skin. Both are adorned in white, full-length kimonos featuring a pattern of six black magatamas around a high collar.
The first and older of the two possesses deep wrinkles and a strong jawline, with spiky, shoulder-length, pale brown hair, a chin-length, braided lock hanging in front of his left ear, and wears a goatee featuring horn-like protrusions extending from either side of his forehead. He also has purple eyes and a red marking at the center of his forehead. He bears a dark-colored, crescent moon-like palm seal on his left hand and a light-colored, sun-like palm seal on his right hand.
While the second and younger of the two possessed hairless brow ridges and waist-length white hair, his bangs were short and hung to the left side of his face, accompanied by a chin-length lock that fell from the right side. He had small, horn-like protrusions on his forehead and clear, white, pupilless eyes inherited from their mother, all while keeping a sword sheathed at his left hip and displaying a dark-colored, crescent moon-like palm seal on his left hand.
Both look very much determined in their decision to fight, weaken, and ensnare the beast in a prison of rock and stone.
Stories of Transcendence.
One figure representing the sun stands tall with his followers standing prepared behind him.
The other figure, representing the crescent moon, stands tall with no followers behind him, due to his great belief in independence.
Both are very much ready to violently clash to death in the name of their ideals and the right for them to exist in the world that they seek to create.
Stories of Justice.
Twenty-three figures stand before a tremendous and overwhelming force with their weapons, ready to battle with an individual who was in the past and still stood as a severe threat to their village.
A severe threat with very pale skin that initiated the war they were currently fighting.
Stories of Responsibility.
The same twenty-three individuals from before were now much older and were currently surrounding a man with their weapons at the ready to face their foe.
A foe who hid as a traitor in their ranks for decades.
He appeared as an old man, frail and often walking with a cane, with black, shaggy hair and a bandage over his right eye.
A sight that made him look weak to many, but to the eleven before him…
…they knew it was very much the opposite of that illusion.
Stories of Aspiration.
Once again, the twenty-three figures are seen, but this time as kids.
All of them sitting at the top of a mountain, looking out at the village under them.
Expressing the hopes and dreams they seek to make a reality.
Stories of Protection.
In this instance, an army of shinobi stands ready before the gates of their village.
Ready to march off to war.
...Stories of Love...
The same red-haired individual from before stood this time under a wisteria tree with the lady, a woman who had happened to be another lover of his, with whom he had been in a long relationship.
The two were engaged in a tight embrace, with neither side wanting to let go.
Relishing the warmth of each other’s bodies, they remain very content with their current situation.
...Stories of Passion…
Once more, with the red-haired individual, we find him with a fair-skinned woman, her long, straight black hair falling to her shoulders, with bangs that hang on either side of her face to roughly frame her cheeks, and black eyes.
Only in this instance, they are enjoying the pleasures of the skin, as the woman’s legs are wrapped around her lover’s waist…
…in the midst of a coupling dance that is as old as time immemorial.
...Stories of Resolve...
The image of a young man with blonde hair and blue eyes stands tall and ready alone before a large force that significantly outnumbers him.
All while standing ready to face them with many of his Tri-Pronged Kunai at his disposal.
...And Stories…
...of the Will to Endure.
The figure of the red-haired individual appears once again. Only this time, he is standing with his six siblings and a large army of shinobi behind his back.
Prepared to face the opposing side led by an old man who, instead of standing on the ground, floats above his subordinates.
This is...a fight with many villains…
A figure with hair the shade of orange floats high above an extensive village.
His hands are raised and spread out as he speaks a few words…
…and many heroes…
At the epicenter of a destroyed village stand the twenty-three figures. Appearing menacingly from the smoke, they wear all black and seem more developed in both appearance and intellect.
They all stand upon enormous creatures individual to each of them.
All the while, they maintained severe expressions etched into their faces, with serene and ferocious outrage glowing behind their eyes.
…where many victims exist…
Rain falls heavily from the darkened skies above. Pittering and pattering all across the stone ground and grass in the places where it freely grows.
Making various puddles of sorts where they can form and grow larger and unbothered.
Further down the path, many individuals stand in a cemetery to honor their dead for their sacrifice and the victory they had won for them.
…and this is a world where many seek something that they've lost or want to achieve.
The red-haired figure appears once more. Standing, this time, alongside a few other members of his clan on a ridge overlooking the sea.
In the direction of the ancestral home that they had lost so many years ago.
Ready to reclaim it.
This is the tale…
…of how one…
…among many legends…
…a story that came to be called...
...and known…
…as…
- The Bloody Tale of the Rogue and Raging Storm of the Uzumaki -
In every shinobi village, there is a reminder of the past that invokes a particular message to some who see it. It serves to evoke in individuals the notion that the past and history can be repeated, often becoming even bloodier than before. It also emphasizes the importance of fervently honoring the memories and sacrifices of those who came before them. Additionally, in some rare cases, it provides a deeper understanding of the symbol behind the village: the principles and teachings upon which it is based, as well as how to better follow the philosophy and will that every village embodies and upholds.
Whether in the form of simple words, ancient books, statues, or the structures of past leaders and heroes, they all convey messages that should not be ignored.
Just like the mountain of Hokage Rock, where the faces of the previous leaders and current leaders are carved. The place where the faces of the legendary shinobi who reigned:
The First Lord Hokage, Hashirama Senju.
Member and Head of the Senju Clan and one of the founders of the Village Hidden In The Leaves.
Being born in 40,685 A.S., Hashirama was known far and wide for being the first in his clan to use the Kekkei Genkai known as Wood Style, in addition to his tremendous skills and prowess as a shinobi during the Warring States Period. As a result, he was the first to be hailed as the “God of Shinobi” for his unmatched shinobi abilities. However, this was not all for which Hashirama was known, as he, in alignment with his skills, sought peace for the Shinobi World into which he was born. This culminated in Hashirama founding Konohagakure in 40,710 A.S. with his younger brother, Tobirama, the Senju Clan, and his childhood friend and rival, Madara Uchiha, who was a member and clan head of the Uchiha clan, the second founding clan of the village.
His legacy and dream would unite the Senju, the Uchiha, and all their affiliated clans to create a village of peace where children would never have to die in battle. A legacy and dream that would make a ripple effect, causing other countries to follow Konohagakure's example soon and build their own hidden villages.
Hashirama had also gone on to be responsible for creating much of the village's infrastructure with his Wood Style abilities. He even expressed his personal wish for Madara to become the First Lord Hokage, the leader and protector of the village. However, this wish fell on deaf ears when the villagers elected him Hokage in 40,711 A.S. at the age of 26 instead of Madara, with his younger brother adamantly insisting that he should be the leader of the village. And when his position in Konoha had begun to diminish at an alarming rate, Madara decided that the village was a failed experiment. He resolved from that point on to abandon it altogether, intent on someday returning to face Hashirama in battle yet again.
And being true to his promise, Madara eventually attacked Konohagakure on multiple occasions. However, after countless fights and with the Nine-Tailed Fox finally under his control, Madara decided to challenge Hashirama to one final battle. The power of the Nine-Tails, along with Hashirama's efforts to capture and contain it, devastated the landscape, carving out what would later be called the Valley of the End in the year 40,715 A.S. Throughout their battle, Hashirama tried to reason with Madara, but Madara continued fighting until he was too tired to keep his Kekkei Genkai, known as the Sharingan, active. This ultimately led to Madara's death at the hands of Hashirama.
This led to the events that occurred in the aftermath of the battle, starting with Tobirama hiding Madara's body. Right beside Hashirama's wife, Mito Uzumaki, who hailed from the Uzumaki Clan known for their exceptional life force, chakra, and Fūinjutsu, underwent the process of sealing away the Nine-Tailed Fox within herself. All aimed at containing its immense power for Konoha's benefit and maintaining the balance of power, which, in turn, led to a stream of problems. Meanwhile, the fox-tailed beast was somewhat calmed by the woman into whom it was to be sealed.
So, while things had started to calm down in the aftermath of the battle and had become more peaceful for a time, Hashirama helped train one of Tobirama's students, raised his son, and spoiled his first grandchild born in 40,736 A.S.
Eventually, he came to lock away the Scroll of Seals, since the Forbidden Jutsu contained within those pages was no longer necessary in the world he had created from the era of war and bloodshed.
However, the harmony Hashirama initially established would not endure, as the peace he had tirelessly pursued began to fray. The turning point occurred in Hashirama’s later years when Takigakure dispatched Kakuzu to kill him. Although he survived this assassination attempt, it became a burden he would carry for the rest of his life. While he had managed to defeat Kakuzu, more minor conflicts soon ignited in retaliation for this attack. As tensions escalated towards a potential full-scale war across the region, Hashirama, determined to make one last effort for enduring peace among the villages, organized a Kage Summit in 40,717 A.S. to unite the various hidden villages.
All to share the tailed beasts that Hashirama had captured and acquired. Consequently, this aims to distribute a substantial amount of wealth and balance power among the other nations to reduce tension and uncertainty between them.
Hashirama’s intentions were pure. He hoped that sharing the tailed beasts with his fellow Kage across the other villages would create a power balance, thus establishing peace among them.
However, his hopes were naive because he underestimated the intricate cooperation required for others to understand him and his intentions.
First, Tobirama demanded that the other villages pay for the tailed beasts they received. Then, the First Kazekage demanded territory from Konohagakure instead of requesting another tailed beast, along with the different hidden villages transferring thirty percent of the tailed beast purchase prices. He stated that if his terms were not met, he would not agree to Hashirama’s pact for lasting peace. He further remarked that it was natural for his village to use its already captured tailed beast for all forthcoming dealings with the other four hidden villages. The words spoken caused increased turmoil and intense disputes among the other Kage.
This led the First Mizukage to suggest that the other four hidden villages unite to defeat Sunagakure. The seriousness of this proposal prompted an uncomfortable silence in the room, which only intensified Hashirama's need to reassure everyone by expressing his worries about the future. He stated that any pact they reached would be temporary, but he believed future generations could establish a more enduring unity.
Ultimately, that same fear soon came to pass, as Hashirama's wish for peace would not come to fruition despite his attempts to achieve it…
…even during his lifetime.
Eventually, Hashirama would meet his end at the age of 55 in the lands situated at the northwestern border of the Land of Fire. In a battle that took place in the year 40,740 A.S., known as the Final Emergence, he faced a force of over ninety thousand Shinobi alone from a combined coalition of Iwagakure, Takigakure, and Sunagakure.
Defending his principles and his people to the very bitter end.
While Konohagakure began to flourish and march off to battle in the first full-scale war of the new era known…
…as the First Great Shinobi War that began later that same year in 40,740 A.S.
The conflict that Hashirama sought to prevent many years ago ultimately became unavoidable after his death. Tensions reached a peak, leading to a full-scale war sparked by the demands of his people and clan. This eventually resulted in the ultimate decrees that Hashirama would issue as the First Hokage prior to his death in combat.
Decrees that would ultimately set the stage for Konohagakure’s future.
Beginning with Hashirama, who passed the position of Senju Clan Head to his firstborn son, Itama Senju II, he beseeched him to take good care of their family and to avoid any thoughtless actions that could harm the village. After this was accomplished, he passed the title of Hokage to his younger brother, Tobirama. He instructed him, first, not to mistreat the Uchiha Clan, since Tobirama had always felt uneasy about them. Then, he urged Tobirama to establish a more stable form of governance and structure for the village, something he had been unable to achieve during his time as the First Hokage.
Orders that appeared straightforward yet carried profound significance. Hashirama’s son would continue his father’s legacy, ensuring that his wishes were ingrained in the clan both at the time of his death and for many years to come. All aimed at preserving order and preventing internal strife. In contrast, Hashirama’s last instructions to Tobirama were somewhat divided.
Divided between the desire to eliminate the final traces of the era that fueled resentment between the Senju and Uchiha Clans, and the heavy responsibility of protecting Konohagakure. He needed to ensure that it operated within a more structured, stable, and organized framework, allowing the village to thrive even in his absence.
These final decrees of Hashirama may have been his last, but they surely weren’t all he wanted to achieve.
Though it was surely apparent how it pointed to the second face on the mountain belonging to his younger brother…
The Second Lord Hokage, Tobirama Senju.
Another member of the renowned Senju Clan, born in the year 40,686 A.S., later became a recognized master of Water Style. He, along with his clan, with his elder brother at the forefront, and the Uchiha clan, helped found the first Shinobi village, Konohagakure, and after his brother’s death would take up the heavy mantle of Hokage.
After assuming the title, which he would hold for the rest of his life, he would work tirelessly, both independently to achieve political stability in Konoha and work towards the dream his brother died for. He implemented numerous institutions beyond those established before his tenure as Hokage, strengthening the village system in Konohagakure and other hidden villages that followed him. This effort ensured Konoha's continuity and prosperity for many decades.
More precisely, many years before and after taking on the role of the Second Hokage, Tobirama labored to help the shinobi of Konohagakure transition from valuing their clan above all else to valuing the village and everyone in it.
To this end, Tobirama began the effort by establishing institutions such as the Shinobi Academy in 40,711 A.S to create warriors loyal to the village and its neighboring villages afar.
The Chūnin Exams in 40,712 A.S.
And the Anbu and the Hunter-nin Corps in 40,713 A.S.
Alongside this, the Shinobi Organizational System was established toward the end of 40,712 A.S., categorized under the title of Kage, which included ranks such as Genin, Chūnin, Special Jōnin, and Jōnin. Furthermore, specialized team formations were developed based on a thorough assessment of individuals' knowledge, abilities, skills, and powers, giving rise to the more recognized three-person squad formation as well as lesser-known configurations. These initiatives to incorporate members into Konohagakure proved largely successful. Their success prompted other villages to adopt similar organizational structures. This, in turn, contributed to the Uchiha Clan’s resistance to a reasonable loss of their autonomy, setting the stage for subsequent events.
Due to the longstanding wariness toward the Uchiha Clan stemming from his history with them and Madara during the Warring States Period, Tobirama, as Hokage after his brother, established the Konoha Military Police Force in 40,741 A.S. A force that was created to manage and supervise the Uchiha, while also allowing them to be monitored. It functioned as a public sign of his trust. Yet primarily, it aimed to provide the Uchiha with a chance to focus their efforts on something beneficial to the village while alleviating the resistance they had previously shown.
Furthermore, like Hashirama before him, Tobirama attempted to foster better relations with the other villages with the intent of ultimately ending the First Great Shinobi War entirely. The war, which began to be fought in full-scale battles at the start of his reign as Second Hokage, following Hashirama’s death. This was precisely why Tobirama took the initiative to create an alliance between Konohagakure and Kumogakure. However, during the formal ceremony in Konohagakure in the year 40,742 A.S., which aimed to conclude some conflicts in those battleground areas, Tobirama and the Second Raikage, known as A, were ambushed by two shinobi referred to as the Gold and Silver Brothers, leaving them on the brink of death.
The fallout from this event marked the abrupt end to the attempt to ally with another powerful village, due to misunderstandings, leaving Tobirama to continue fighting on before eventually meeting his own end.
At the midpoint of the First Great Shinobi War, at the age of 57 in the year 40,743 A.S., during a battle known as the Final Shockwave, Tobirama found himself surrounded by the Kinkaku Force, a group of rogue shinobi from Kumogakure. They were led by the two who had attacked him and the Raikage, ensuring that Konoha and Kumo never formed an alliance.
With no way for him and his team of six to escape and no chance of defeating the enemy directly, Tobirama volunteered to act as a decoy in place of one of his students who had previously offered to take his place. With this decision made, Tobirama would depart valiantly to face his fate, but not before he passed the title of Hokage to one of his three students within the six-man team: a young man who had volunteered to act as the decoy to allow his team to escape safely. Thus, having done that, Tobirama faced his death at the hands of the Kinkaku Force.
All the while, his team of six had escaped without issue…
The Shinobi of Konoha, who recognized him both professionally and personally, would remember and document his heroic deeds over time. This remembrance was further solidified by the third face on the monument, which rightfully belonged to the successor that Tobirama selected in his final moments.
Known to the shinobi world…
…as Hiruzen Sarutobi.
The Third Lord Hokage, and a member and former Head of the Sarutobi Clan.
A man born in the year of 40,718 A.S., he was part of the first generation of shinobi produced by Konohagakure. A special case among his peers, Hiruzen, not long after his admittance, found himself, alongside Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane, placed under the direct tutelage of Tobirama Senju. This led to Hiruzen’s early display of prodigious talent in the shinobi arts, earning him additional training from Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage, while he was still alive.
This tutelage successfully aided and shaped Hiruzen into a powerful and formidable shinobi in his own right. One who was hailed as another “God of Shinobi” while also being renowned as “The Professor.” A title earned for his unmatched versatility in ninjutsu and mastery of all skills and combat forms associated with the Shinobi way of life. Although he was primarily the instructor for the Sannin, his genin team, many generations of shinobi in Konohagakure benefited from his wisdom and knowledge during his lengthy tenure as the Third Hokage, which began at the age of 25. Hiruzen commanded Konoha's forces during the latter part of the First Great Shinobi War, which concluded that same year in 40,743 A.S.
Hiruzen subsequently guided the village during the First Great Shinobi Cold War, which spanned twenty years. He then led Konohagakure through the Second Great Shinobi War, occurring from 40,763 A.S. to 40,765 A.S., followed by the Second Great Shinobi Cold War. Finally, he directed the village through the Third Great Shinobi War, which took place from 40,767 A.S. to 40,775 A.S.
Upon the conclusion of the third war, when the fighting had ceased entirely, Hiruzen stepped down after thirty-three years in office, passing on the title and hat of Hokage to a much younger, more reflective, and astute successor of his choosing.
Directing attention to the fourth and final face of the mountain, carved in the image of the man who was known…
…as Minato Namikaze.
The Fourth Lord Hokage.
A man born in the year 40,752 A.S. who, at a young age, was a natural prodigy as a shinobi, the likes of which appear only once in a generation.
When he was added to a genin team under the leadership of Jiraiya, the man took a special interest in Minato, particularly, and took him on as his apprentice once Minato and his teammates were raised to Chūnin, imparting many of his teachings to the young boy at the time, instructing him in many of his signature abilities, and eventually being allowed to sign the summoning contract tied to his master.
Over time, Minato would also become well-versed in fūinjutsu, primarily due to his wife teaching him personally and partially from his master's knowledge of the subject. He would go on to be very proficient in the Nature Transformations of Fire, Wind, and Lightning, alongside Yin and Yang Release. This proficiency followed Minato as he began a three-year process to create one of his signature Jutsus, known as the Rasengan. A jutsu derived from a Tailed Beast Ball he had seen being fired by the jinchūriki of the Four-Tailed Sage Monkey during the early skirmishes of the Third Great Shinobi War.
Later in his career as a shinobi, Minato proved to be a responsible and accomplished shinobi by taking charge of his team of genin. When Konoha became involved in the full-scale Third Great Shinobi War, Minato's responsibilities were divided between training his students and contributing to the war effort on the front lines, leading to the beginning of the end of the Third War.
On the orders of Konohagakure’s high command, Minato was instructed to head to the northwestern borderlands of Kusagakure. His team of genin, upon his instructions, was ordered to destroy the Kannabi Bridge, as his attention was needed at the front lines.
Minato would later meet up with the surviving and outnumbered Konohagakure shinobi and single-handedly wipe out the opposing side using an SS-rank Jutsu called the Flying Thunder God Jutsu. A technique over which he gained complete mastery and versatility, unlike its creator, the Second Hokage. This mastery and versatility allowed the man in question to kill an entire thousand-man battalion composed of shinobi from Iwagakure.
As time passed in the following weeks and months, the event came to be known as the Yellow Massacre at the Dry Way Plateau. The solitary action of one shinobi not only compelled the Third Tsuchikage to agree to a peace treaty but also instilled in him a profound fear. This fear culminated in Minato receiving an S-rank shinobi designation and a “flee on sight” order. All Iwagakure shinobi were instructed to act on this order if they encountered him for the remainder of the war and beyond, with the S-rank designation and flee-on-sight order remaining active in the Bingo Book.
This, nevertheless, would not be the last of Minato’s notable feats, as he would also go on to encounter the shinobi who was the son of the Third Raikage and grandson of the Second Raikage, known by the name A, the Unruly of Kumogakure. He was a man whom Minato would face and clash with numerous times on the battlefield before the Third Great Shinobi War ended. However, during their first meeting, Minato and A fought in a head-on duel, where their respective means of speed served as their weapons. In this encounter, Minato proved to be the faster fighter of the two shinobi.
Minato's actions and the ensuing events earned him recognition as one of history's most powerful shinobi. Regarded as unparalleled by others, he gained worldwide fame for his speed and skill in Space-Time Ninjutsu, eventually earning the title of the Yellow Flash of Konoha.
For his performance during the war, Minato was chosen by Hiruzen over the man’s student, Orochimaru, to become the Fourth Lord Hokage. He ascended to this role as the youngest person to hold the title at the age of 22 in 40,774 A.S., near the end of the war.
Immediately upon taking the position, Minato worked hard and tirelessly to extinguish the last flames of war and usher in peace. Once that was accomplished, Minato diligently began establishing his presence both within and beyond the village by expanding Konoha's military arm. First, he fortified, revolutionized, and further developed and expanded the indispensable Medic Corps of Konohagakure. Second, he increased and reorganized the number of Medical-nin in Konohagakure’s shinobi forces to balance them with the overall military strength of the village. Third, he diverted more resources from the village into further research and study of Medical Ninjutsu.
This was all done to honor his sensei's former teammate, Tsunade Senju. Many years before, in early 40,752 A.S., she had advocated for Medical-nin and Medical Ninjutsu to be included in all four-man squads to prevent future deaths that could be avoided with assistance.
This initiative was directly tied to enhancing and restructuring the Shinobi Academy in Konohagakure and establishing a dedicated division for the Barrier Team. It involved teaching the Flying Thunder God Jutsu to the Hokage Guard Platoon to improve their effectiveness in serving the Hokage at all times. Additionally, efforts were made to forge connections with nearby smaller villages within the Land of Fire and collaborate with the Daimyō of the Land of Fire to boost the village’s budget and increase the region’s wealth through commerce and other revenue sources. All of this occurred alongside the implementation of various longstanding policies and important decrees that would quickly endear him to the people during his early reign as Hokage.
Regrettably, Minato's time as Hokage ended in 40,776 A.S., ending when he was only 24. He passed away alongside his wife, Kushina Uzumaki, who previously served as a Jōnin and the Anbu Commander of Konohagakure, and was also a master of Fūinjutsu.
The cause of death was that both had sacrificed themselves to seal the Nine-Tailed Fox within the first of their newborn children.
The firstborn son and eldest of seven, known as Naruto Uzumaki.
Making him the third Jinchūriki of the Nine-Tailed Fox for Konohagakure after Kushina, who was the previous and second host of the Fox.
Thus, while fulfilling their duty to protect the village, they both leave their children in the living world with a hopeful belief that others will step in to carry on their legacy.
Even though the world stands on the brink of a significant transformation that will shape its very foundations…
- Hiruzen Sarutobi -
- Council Chambers, Hokage Residence, Konohagakure -
- October 10th, 40,776 A.S. -
Chaos. That was what lay before Hiruzen Sarutobi’s eyes.
Such a force had come in this form when he looked upon all of the heatedly arguing individuals that were present in the chamber.
The reason for this chamber being filled with so many squabbling individuals was that it was currently within the immediate aftermath of the Nine-Tailed Fox's Attack on Konohagakure.
An attack that came at a cost with the death of his young successor, who carried out the responsibilities of the hat and title of the Hokage. This coincided with the death of Konoha’s Anbu Black Ops Commander, who was on temporary leave due to her pregnancy. These losses created a significant power vacuum, affecting the overall strength of Konoha’s military arm, one of the two critical problems that had presented a crisis on its own. The second significant issue arose regarding the condition of the village itself.
The Nine-Tailed Fox’s assault on Konohagakure caused considerable destruction across the village. Many districts within the Village Hidden in the Leaves suffered damage or were entirely obliterated, leaving them in ruins. The most affected areas included residential zones and those related to trade and the village's economy. The former in question being the leading cause behind what led to grave casualties all across the board, assessing the fact that the Fox had appeared out of thin air after being summoned to a populated district within the village.
The Great Market Square and Merchant District were the initial locations where the attack began, surrounded by other populated areas and less affluent neighborhoods. Civilians attempting to escape faced immediate danger in the chaos of the initial strike. On the other hand, those of shinobi rank fought bravely, using their combined strength and chakra to try to halt the unprecedented bloodshed. Moreover, when the turmoil finally ceased, the village was not only left devastated and mourning the staggering death toll but also filled with anger, protests, and unrest.
The sole reason for this was the demand for answers regarding what had directly caused it all. Leading to the present predicament that Hiruzen found himself facing.
Sitting quietly for the moment at the head of the table in the council chambers, he served as acting leader of the village during its time of crisis while two of his three direct students, known as Jiraiya and Tsunade Senju, stood behind him. Hiruzen had taken the immediate step of summoning them both back to the village, under urgent orders due to his title as Third Hokage, and a reasonable request from a now-aged teacher and mentor. Thus, once both individuals returned to the village with urgency, Hiruzen finally decided to break the dreadful news to them.
A revelation in itself, which left his two students in a state of immense grief, even at this very moment, over the loss of both Minato and Kushina. In terms of individual reality, Minato was very close to the sensei who had taught him everything he knew as his apprentice, close in the way that one comes to see their students like their own children. The evidence of this reality regarding Minato was clearly depicted by Jiraiya’s fist, tightly wrapped in bandages, after he marched swiftly into the training grounds upon hearing the news.
His hands appear at this moment to be still capable of moving freely, though quite stiffly. A clear indication of the undeniable certainty that Jiraiya had unloaded his pain, loss, and anger onto something exceptionally hard to hit.
Tsunade herself, on the matter, was no better if her puffy red eyes were any explicit representation of that assumption in Hiruzen’s view. Reflecting on the detail that Tsunade also didn’t smell of sake provides another indication of just how deep her grief ran, as it seemed alcohol would not help dull such sorrow. Yet, if Hiruzen recalled more accurately, Minato was quite close to Tsunade in a motherly sense due to his being an orphan. Even as a young genin, the boy had constantly come asking for advice, counsel, and tips on how to balance his large chakra reserves. So much so that he sometimes shared dinner with her, which consistently became the place where their bond grew stronger over many heartfelt conversations.
But then again, like Minato, there was also Kushina to consider. Bearing in mind the fact that Kushina had been somewhat closer to Tsunade than Minato during her life. This developed because the Senju Princess had known the Uzumaki girl since her arrival in Konohagakure in 16,161 A.S. to become the Second Jinchūriki of the Nine-Tailed Fox, after her grandmother. At that point, both immediately took a shine to each other, as Tsunade would teach Kushina some of the knowledge she possessed. Later, when Kushina became a full-fledged shinobi, she would return the favor by helping Tsunade reinforce her Strength of a Hundred Seal Jutsu through the art of fūinjutsu.
In contrast, Jiraiya only encountered Kushina during brief interactions over time. Their exchanges were minimal, primarily involving casual conversations about the Uzumaki woman, who was close to Minato, before their bond developed significantly on two notable occasions. The first involved extensive discussions on fūinjutsu, which had a profound influence on the Toad Sage. With Kushina's guidance, Jiraiya gained a profound understanding of the graceful, serene, expressive, and skillful art unique to the Uzumaki Clan. The second pivotal moment occurred when Kushina asked Jiraiya to eventually become the godfather of her child after she and Minato had married.
Their losses were significant both personally and impersonally. The loss of Minato was the most prominent and substantial blow to Konoha’s vanguard due to the morale he instilled through his skills, power, and reputation.
‘And when word reaches the other villages of Minato’s death…they’ll see it as both a disadvantage in our position and an opportunity of theirs to take…’ Hiruzen thought grimly, starting to ponder the potential consequences for the village ahead.
Hiruzen’s thoughts trailed to Iwagakure and Kumogakure. The village in the former position not only still hungered for conflict due to such an embarrassing loss in the war, but also sought ample retribution…paid in the blood of Hiruzen’s people. Even more so these days, considering it had been only two short years since that day. Two years since Minato had resolved to take on the severe duty of using the Flying Raijin Jutsu to annihilate, on his own, an entire battalion of Iwa shinobi that numbered a thousand at the Dry Way Plateau. The act, which compelled Iwa’s Third Tsuchikage to come to terms and accept a peace treaty that would prevent further casualties on the war's front lines, played a pivotal role in ending the great conflict.
Regarding the second of the two villages, Hiruzen concluded that Kumo would be the more sly, cunning, and difficult challenge overall. Three key factors drove this assessment. First, Minato had established a terrifying reputation among his enemies after defeating the invading army of Iwagakure shinobi, facing impossible odds of one against a thousand. This act influenced the second factor, which manifested in two types of fear. One was a neutral fear of potentially encountering Minato as an adversary. The other was a personal fear experienced by those close to A, the Fourth and current Lord Raikage, who had been outmatched in speed by Minato and marked with a Jutsu formula that the caster could activate at any time.
The subsidiary aspect of the second element of personal fear was far more distressing to those in Kumo who recognized the severity of the threat. If Minato ever desired it, he could teleport to Kumogakure, eliminate A, and proceed to massacre shinobi within their village. This would significantly weaken the Land of Lightning while also setting the stage for a full-scale invasion. Additionally, this was compounded by the third factor: the death of the Third Raikage at the hands of Konohagakure forces during the same war. Remarkably, despite all these concerns, Kumogakure had remained unsettlingly quiet since the war concluded.
No border disputes among shinobi.
No trade or road conflicts.
No reports of travelers to the village acting suspiciously. Nothing.
So inherently, Hiruzen felt it was natural to have some apprehension when facing both villages regarding their respective grievances stemming from the war. Given their current circumstances, Hiruzen viewed the future that lay ahead as merely an opportunity to exact some form of retribution.
However, for those in Konoha regarding the loss, many of the senior shinobi within the Konoha command structure had high hopes for the young Hokage. This was especially true when Minato demonstrated great promise in his position after only holding the title for two years, achieving so much in such a short time. He bolstered the village's economy, reinforced the military, and completely revolutionized the entire infrastructure. Unfortunately, as of now, almost all of Minato’s work had unraveled, leaving Konohagakure in extensive shambles. Civilians had been killed, buildings were destroyed, and Konoha's shinobi forces had once again plummeted to an all-time low in such a brief period.
Added to Kushina’s role as the second clarifying blow, highlighting their significant decline.
‘Her loss is not only personal to those of us who knew her well, but it also represents a remarkably profound blow to her students and the power base of our village’s shadow…’ Hiruzen thought, a subtle frown on his face, as a deep exhale escaped from his nose.
Since Kushina arrived in Konoha from Uzushiogakure, she dedicated herself to becoming a strong shinobi, receiving limited guidance from Mito Uzumaki, Tsunade, and, to some degree, himself. At thirteen, upon becoming a chūnin, she expressed her desire to join the Anbu Black Ops of Konohagakure. Hiruzen consented, but only if she demonstrated progress in her first year, as her skills were deemed necessary elsewhere in the village. Taking on the challenge, Kushina excelled in her role, quickly advancing to become a captain within six months of joining and ultimately assuming command of the Anbu at the age of sixteen.
The position she had held until her death, while finding the time to act as a teacher to a unit of three genin, a teacher to an apprentice as a jōnin, and to advise several others. The rank Kushina had achieved coincided with her leading role within the shadows of the Anbu.
Since that day, Kushina had worked rigorously on restructuring and revolutionizing Konoha’s Anbu to make it more effective, reflecting on the fact that the hot-blooded Uzumaki woman had said many times in the past to Hiruzen that she believed if Konohagakure was responsible for creating the Anbu, thanks to Hiruzen’s sensei Tobirama, they might as well be the best among the other villages.
So when the brazen move came to pass, it was no surprise to those who were immediately aware of the shift. Reflecting on the past, when one joined the Anbu, they received training only in the bare minimum basics, such as formations, hand sign language, coded speech, and various other teachings. It was generally assumed by most, both inside and outside the Anbu, that if you were admitted into the organization, you were proficient in the shinobi arts to support the teams or handle lone assignments. However, Kushina did not accept this and worked to change it. First, as a non-ranking member in a team completing assignments, second as a captain, and third as the commander.
Therefore, by the time she assumed the leading position, some of the burden was lifted by others who had previously worked with her and achieved captaincy. This allowed Kushina to focus her efforts on training both newcomers and seasoned members to the fullest extent of her commanding position. The aim was to prepare them to act as one heart, one mind, and one morality in the heat of battle, while also improving their skills as the village’s unseen and far-reaching shadow, the perfectly crafted shinobi necessary for such a meticulous, audacious, and demanding career path.
And with her death, it was evident to Hiruzen by the Anbu in his service that they were all affected by the news of her passing, especially those who knew Kushina’s true identity beneath the mask she had worn. This came alongside the reality that her loss would likely be even more significant for the four students she had taught as a jōnin, for whom she had undoubtedly left an indelible mark during her time with the living. Both sides had lost a remarkable commander and teacher.
The toll of both individual losses was significant enough on their own in their respective contexts. However, together, they became exceedingly problematic by inflaming the heated arguments stemming from the current issue at hand…
…Minato and Kushina’s seven children.
The recently delivered children were in the care of Tsunade’s apprentice and assistant, known as Shizune, at the request of her master, who happened to be at the very heart of the matter that arose in the room.
Precisely for the fact that Hiruzen had moments ago, alongside his wife, Biwako Sarutobi, and her Anbu disciple, Taji, taken to revealing the truth of what had truly transpired. Next, they describe what both parents had done to safeguard their children's lives and the village while being mindful to leave out the part about who Naruto and his siblings’ parents were, for various reasons. These reasons were built upon the foundations of rational forethought, prioritizing the preservation and safety of the village above all else. Leading to why they had taken to elucidating Minato’s incredibly hopeful expectancy in the village that they would come to see his eldest son, unknown to most of them, as the hero who saved them all.
The one who would solely uphold the solemn duty of being Konohagakure’s third Jinchūriki of the Nine-Tailed Fox, to keep both the balance of power in check and prevent chaos from rising across the Elemental Nations that could lead to another war.
However, as Hiruzen had expected, the civil side of the council, already piqued by seething emotions, didn’t take kindly to this at all. Instead, they believed that young Naruto and his siblings posed too great a risk and danger to live in the village. This, in turn, led to vocally chilling indications of getting rid of him altogether. But that, too, was all they would be: suggestions.
Considering that the governing system of Konohagakure did not adhere to the civilians.
Just as Tobirama had worked tirelessly to create it, he ensured that the Hokage held all facets of power over the village with the help of the Shinobi Military Council underneath him. Hiruzen himself would know, as he was one of the shinobi students closest to Tobirama. He had witnessed how his sensei truly wanted to run things democratically, though that too would change in some regard down the line. Primarily more so concerning the civilians of non-shinobi origins, especially as they began suggesting their own ideas that were exceptionally detrimental to the village’s security and protection, thereby endangering their shinobi way of life, which would ultimately weaken them and lead to the village and the Land of Fire being overrun and conquered within a few decades.
‘And thank the Buddha…the Kami…and whatever other deities of the universe who drove Tobirama-sensei to come and make such a decision…’ Hiruzen reflected with appreciation.
He rubbed his eyes with his left hand before gazing at the chamber once more. The room showcased Tobirama’s accomplishments through the council, which was separated into three powers.
First are the Elders, who serve to aid the Hokage in governing the village and ensuring that all decisions prioritize the welfare of Konoha and its residents. Notably, Tobirama designed the Elders to participate in council meetings without the right to vote. This means they cannot command, lead, or issue orders to the village’s shinobi forces or its Anbu. Furthermore, they cannot demand orders from the Hokage, the clans, or their leaders.
This led to the second portion of the council, known as the Konohagakure Shinobi Military Council, which served as second-in-command both within and outside of Konohagakure, and only obeyed the Hokage's word, will, and decrees, not those of the Elders.
The last appeared as the Civil Council, the lowest branch of the council, which was entirely comprised of individuals of little significance. Their powers were concentrated solely on serving the interests of citizens, the village's economy, and day-to-day life. It majorly consisted of wealthy families in Konoha and individuals who “supposedly” spoke for the civilians of the village as a whole, most of whom didn’t have a single family member who served or is serving the village as a shinobi, resulting in none of them realizing the noble sacrifices that the shinobi of their village make daily to ensure their peace, rights, and benefits.
It was also here that Hiruzen's eyes glimpsed three seats occupied by individuals on the side of the Civil Council in the room—his former teammates and now village elders—who were each known by their names.
The first being Homura Mitokado.
An older gentleman with gray hair, a beard, and glasses, accompanied by a constant frown he's always worn, even in his youth. He also has a strong jawline, a facial structure he has maintained throughout his old age.
The second Koharu Utatane.
A woman of a similar age to Homura, who tends to squint her eyes, barely opening them at any point in time. Her hair is pulled back in a twin bun, secured with a traditional hairpin featuring pearls on both sides and a tassel, along with lengthy earrings. She wears a simple long kimono, secured by an obi, with a jacket and sash over it.
At one point, she had been beautiful in her youth when they were a team, and Hiruzen had once considered her a worthy woman, possibly to match himself with in marriage, a decision he gladly didn’t make.
The third and last is known by the name of Danzō Shimura, the other man in this group of three.
He was a frail older gentleman who typically walked with a cane and maintained a phlegmatic demeanor. He alone among them has shaggy black hair. His right eye is bandaged, revealing an X-shaped scar on his chin that he has proudly displayed since his youth. He wears a long white shirt paired with a black robe that covers his entire lower body, extending just over his right shoulder.
At one point, Hiruzen considered them great allies and friends, but as time passed, they proved to be immense headaches in Hiruzen’s professional and personal opinion. The last of them, Danzō, was in Hiruzen’s mind, and in many others' for good reason, to be the most significant nuisance and danger of them all, for a vast array of grounds and justifications.
Danzō was otherwise known to the Shinobi World by the title of the Shinobi of Darkness due to his frequent unsanctioned actions and his often-suspected, but rarely confirmed, undermining of specific Konoha personnel.
Therefore, not one to linger on the source of his headaches, Hiruzen's eyes turned promptly to those of the Shinobi Military Council, the heads of shinobi clans, each with their own seat.
The six were known as noble clans: the Senju, the Uzumaki, and the Uchiha for their roles as part of the founding trio of the hidden village system, along with the Aburame, the Akimichi, and the Hyūga. Next to them were the lesser shinobi clans, known as the Inuzuka, Nara, Yamanaka, Hatake, Kurama, and Hiruzen’s clan, the Sarutobi. Despite their lesser title, these clans possessed equal power in numbers.
Among the many seats in the Shinobi Military Council, particularly the clan seats, three remained completely vacant: the Uzumaki, Senju, and Kurama Clan seats, each for its unique reason.
The power void created by the Uzumaki and the Senju has shifted to the Hyūga and Uchiha clans.
These two clans are now the most prominent in the village, both vying for the title of the most powerful. Their struggles are driven by a desire to enhance their clan’s prestige both within and outside the village and to gain political influence within the village itself.
Nevertheless, it was here that Hiruzen looked upon the clan heads, each possessing unique skill sets and personalities. He had worked with them all for years, especially during the midpoint and towards the end of the Third Great Shinobi World War.
The first was Fugaku Uchiha, a jōnin-ranked shinobi who is currently the head of the Uchiha Clan and the Captain of the Konoha Military Police Force.
He appeared as a man with shoulder-length brown hair and onyx-colored eyes, which had noticeable creases beneath them that became more pronounced when he wore a stern expression. He donned the standard Konoha flak jacket, paired with a black shirt bearing the Konoha Military Police Force emblem on the shoulders, along with shin guards and a black open-front apron adorned with white diamonds at the bottom.
The second was Hiashi Hyūga, another jōnin shinobi who was the current head of the Hyūga Clan. As the head of his clan, he recruited competent members to serve in the Konohagakure Barrier Unit Division.
He materialized as a man with an unmarked forehead, long black hair, and featureless white eyes like all members of his clan. He wore traditional, loose-fitting robes and a long-sleeved, brown haori.
The third was Tsume Inuzuka, a jōnin-ranked kunoichi who led the Inuzuka Clan and currently served as the Commander of the Sensory, Hunter, and Tracking Divisions in Konoha. This position was just below that of Commander of Konohagakure’s Second Armed Battalion.
She is characterized by her animalistic features, including long, spiky, unruly brown hair, vertical slit-like pupils, elongated canine teeth, and sharp nails. Her appearance is enhanced by her clan’s fang markings on her cheeks, additional markings around her eyes, and dark purple lipstick. She wears the standard Konoha flak jacket with a black suit underneath, the sleeves rolled up, and has bandages wrapped around her legs.
The fourth individual was Shibi Aburame, the jōnin shinobi leading the Aburame Clan at the table. He currently serves as the Commander of both the Espionage Division and the Reconnaissance and Counterintelligence Division.
He presents himself as a man who, like all clan members, wears dark glasses that obscure his eyes, featuring a single tassel dangling from one side. His appearance includes very spiky, short black hair and a mustache, combined with a high-collared outfit. He also carries a gourd on his back, used for storing additional kikaichū.
The fifth was Shikaku Nara, the current head of the Nara Clan, who also serves as the Jōnin Commander of Konohagakure, the Commander of Konohagakure Strategical Command, and the Commander of Konohagakure’s First Armed Battalion.
Shikaku emerges as a man with two scars on the right side of his face and one on the left. He has dark eyes and dark hair, tied into a spiky ponytail, along with a goatee and pierced ears. He wears a mesh shirt underneath his Konoha flak jacket, with a coat of deerskin over it, and handguards.
The sixth was Inoichi Yamanaka, the head of the Yamanaka Clan, jōnin of Konoha, and the current Head of the Analysis Team in the Konohagakure Intelligence Division.
In appearance, he is a man with long, ash-blond hair that reaches his lower back, which is spiky on top and ends in a long ponytail. He has light green eyes and strong facial features, including a well-defined jawline. He sports the standard flak jacket over a black outfit, complete with handguards, a forehead protector, and a sleeveless red haori.
The sixth amongst them was Chōza Akimichi, another jōnin of Konoha and Head of the Akimichi Clan, who also served as Commander of Konohagakure’s Third Armed Battalion.
Physically, he is a tall, plump man with naturally brown hair worn in a long, spiky red hairpiece, and he has purple markings on his cheeks, a common trait of the Akimichi clan. He wears a samurai-like outfit consisting of a black suit complete with armor that has the kanji for "food" (食, shoku ) on it. He also sports a rope belt and hand guards, and instead of a forehead protector, he wears a hachimaki tied around his head.
Leaving the seventh of these to be Asuma Sarutobi, Hiruzen’s secondborn son.
Asuma is a tall young man with brown eyes, olive skin, and short, spiky black hair. His clothing consists of the standard Konoha shinobi uniform with the sleeves rolled up halfway, a flak jacket, regular shinobi sandals, and a forehead protector.
He holds the shinobi rank of chūnin, as he sits in his clan’s seat as the acting head of the Sarutobi Clan, since Hiruzen himself is now once again, and for the foreseeable future, under the Hokage hat and title, which had forced him to step down as clan head when a suitable acting head had come along during his first tenure. Consequently, when Asuma was born and took the position, it alleviated some of the burden regarding certain clan affairs that required his attention.
A problem he hoped to tackle as he looked at the eighth and final seat positioned to his right, which was currently vacant.
The seat had belonged to another of Hiruzen’s advisers who, at this moment, was on their way to Konohagakure, accompanied by their clan. A sight that arose after the individual in question demanded the position of being one of Hiruzen’s counselors, to assist him both publicly and from the shadows as the foremost advisor.
Something that had come to pass among other demands…
Demands that would move accordingly with or without Hiruzen’s permission. Which he had felt were owed and should be abided by. All due to the belief that this individual could very well assist in speeding up the process of restoring the village to what it once was, and even more.
Conversely, Hiruzen was concerned that the individual’s mindset could be both beneficial and perilous. It was advantageous for the shinobi path and the overall security and welfare of the village. Still, it also posed three threats, primarily regarding the individual’s chakra and physical abilities, which aligned with their Kekkei Genkai and additional skills as a strong shinobi. This individual originated as one of the child prodigies from Hiruzen’s era, when the Warring States Period was drawing to a close.
Second, in conjunction with this, was their calculating, intelligent, meticulous, politically astute, ruthless, and commanding mind. Characteristics about this individual that had come to play and blend perfectly with their, above all, fearless, and sometimes, hot-blooded nature. The last of which appeared to be an enormous and constant attribute within their clan. However, all of these had come to be placed right beside the shrewd and disciplined leadership that was foremost in them and had benefited them not only as a far-reaching shinobi but also as a foundation in governing their clan as the Head of it.
Beyond their present leader, the clan itself was also notable for its immense skill and prowess—the third and final aspect to consider in this context.
They, as a clan, have significantly evolved in their abilities over the centuries, as demonstrated by their prowess during the First Great Shinobi War when they rose from the shadows of obscurity. This transformation can be attributed not only to the clan’s lifestyle but also to the hardships endured throughout countless centuries, as well as more recently. The diligent efforts of former clan heads and the current leader have elevated them to their most dangerous state, a fact reflected in the current leader's children.
‘Honestly…when they arrive, I dread what is to come for this village as a whole…’ Hiruzen thought with some uneasiness, once again letting out a sigh. ‘...a troublesome turn of sight, I bet it will be for us all…’ thought Hiruzen once again, his eyebrow twitching slightly as he realized he sounded much like a certain Nara in the room.
However, that thought soon faded as Hiruzen refocused on the heated arguments between the shinobi and civil council members. He grew increasingly weary of the Civil Council’s demands for the execution of Naruto and his siblings, along with their ultimatums threatening dire consequences if their wishes were not met.
‘...then again, it will be a change of pace from what I’ve had to deal with thus far over these past few decades,’ Hiruzen thought with narrowed eyes, somewhat mercilessly. ‘Probably will be in the best interest of the village to have the assistance of a stern hand. Whether they see it or not, and like it or not…’ Hiruzen pondered once more.
He sat up a little and decided to put an end to the disgraceful spectacle that was meant to be an emergency council meeting.
Hiruzen moved his folded hands away from his lips, straightened his back, and quietly cleared his throat before inhaling deeply with the utmost intention of speaking to gain the full attention of the entire room.
“SILENCE!” Hiruzen yells fiercely, channeling a powerful surge of chakra and Killing Intent.
Forcing a few individuals to initially jump out of their skin somewhat with how loudly he spoke. In contrast, the Killing Intent immediately silenced others, which he had released in small but powerful bursts. It instantly silenced the entire room, causing everyone who stood up to retake their seats and look towards the man who had gathered their attention.
“We will not kill the children,” Hiruzen began calmly. “Nor will this council consider embarking on such actions,” Hiruzen states, continuing to survey his surroundings. “Especially towards those who have just been born, who should not face hostility and disdain for an offense they did not commit,” Hiruzen adds, speaking in a tone that allowed for no argument or debate on the subject.
A tone that captured the immediate attention of the entire Shinobi Military Council, eliciting a series of deep, stiff nods from their side of the room.
The Civil Council appeared displeased with this decision and remained as defiant as ever, for reasons they were willing to vocalize.
“You old fool! That monster killed my wife!” exclaims a male civilian, his words laced with anger and disrespect.
The room was filled with narrowed eyes from those who were deeply offended by such disrespectful and careless words. None were more upset than Hiruzen, who was already somewhat aggravated, and grew increasingly irritated with each passing second.
“And so was my son, who was helping in defending the village!” yelled a second equally angry individual.
“The damn beast can not live within the walls of this village!” shouts a third.
“We should be killing the beast and washing our hands clean of it!” yelled a fourth, shouting angrily.
“You will all be silent!” Hiruzen asserts firmly, raising his voice slightly with an even more pronounced, incensed expression on his face.
Deciding to unleash an even denser portion of killing intent to emphasize the point of his spoken command.
“The decision has already been made and is final. I will hear no more of these heinous suggestions spoken out,” Hiruzen states.
“Lord Third! The demon poses a threat to this village! Killing it now while it’s weak will rid us of the problem,” says another male civilian.
“Allowing it to be reformed in a few years time?” asks Shibi, finally deciding to speak up.
His tone is layered with the utmost severity. Yet it also carries a trace of sardonic harshness that correlates perfectly with his choice of opening words.
“The Tailed Beasts are large masses of chakra. Chakra, ” Shibi emphasizes, underscoring his last word. “A substance that can not be killed or harmed, but only sealed,” he continues. “This is what you all seem to have overlooked regarding young Naruto, who is the jailer, not the prisoner he holds inside,” Shibi adds to reinforce his earlier point.
His words effectively created a quiet ambiance throughout the entire room.
No one seemed to dare speak in questioning Shibi’s insight on a matter that civilians knew nothing about and should not know. This was something Hiruzen presently agreed with, as the only reason the Civil Council was in the room was because of Danzō, who had gathered them for reasons of his own that no one could truly comprehend or grasp in intention.
Making the entire affair as a whole even more problematic than it already was.
“Acting impulsively on your emotions, as you've demonstrated in the past half hour, has led us nowhere,” Shibi states, continuing to speak. “This will persist if we continue to indulge your protests,” he adds sharply, maintaining a stoic expression with narrowed eyebrows.
A considerable number of individuals in the room flinched at his words.
“The village can not afford more mistakes or losses, especially from the Civil Council,” Shibi states, casting a glance at the civilians. “This means the Hokage's directives will proceed as planned, with or without your approval. Like everyone else, you will follow the decision and serve, or you will face severe repercussions for your defiance,” he concludes, falling silent thereafter.
His impassive, insensitive words suggested a multitude of insinuations, as if to imply that their losses and objections to the decision meant nothing to him.
All the while, making them aware of the dire consequences should they try to defy Hiruzen’s word as the leader of the village. However, to Hiruzen, like a few others in the room who understood the man better than what was seen on the surface, Shibi did care greatly.
He just refused to let emotions interfere with his critical decision-making. Given the current dire state of the village and the threats to its security, he could not allow the situation to continue. It was inappropriate for the Civil Council to attend this emergency meeting. Their presence in the council chambers, fueled by grief and other irrational feelings, made it unsuitable for them to participate in the shinobi affairs of the village. Hiruzen understood that allowing them to stay would only lay the groundwork for potential intrusions or delays in the crucial work of restoring the village's defenses.
Allowing these civilians in the room and permitting them to speak about what the village should be doing with a newborn, who, by all accounts and technicalities, had saved them and the village, seemed to attest to how far Shibi’s tolerance had deteriorated.
“Yes…very well said, Shibi,” Hiruzen replies, his gratitude evident as he averts his gaze from the man. “Having said that, I will reiterate one last time: my decision is conclusive,” Hiruzen declares.
Gathering everyone’s attention now, his tone of voice becomes more authoritative and impassive.
“Naruto and his siblings will not be harmed. It is not only morally wrong, but they also embody the hope my late successor invested everything into. To take their lives would go against his final wishes," Hiruzen says, narrowing his eyes as he exudes a killing intent to emphasize his point. He continues, “I will not accept any disobedience regarding this issue. Anyone who does defy it will face immediate execution, regardless of whether they are a shinobi or a civilian, of any rank or status,” Hiruzen states with a much colder tone.
He made his forewarning unmistakably clear for everyone present.
No one in the room wished to provoke the anger of a former Kage, especially one who still moved with the vigor of a man in his prime and held nothing back when he desired. Although Hiruzen had retired as Hokage just two years ago, he was still, by both physical and shinobi standards, reasonably fit.
This was evident to all as Hiruzen swiftly scanned the room, meeting the gazes of each individual.
To gauge who would be the problematic factor among them. So far, no one in the room had expressed defiance. The only individuals who genuinely accepted his decision were those from the Shinobi Military Council. Those who seemed to reject such a decision were the members of the Civil Council, who still appeared eager to argue until they got their way.
‘I can fully understand why Tobirama-Sensei always despised the Civil Council…’ Hiruzen thought, diverting his narrowed gaze from them. ‘Hashirama-Sensei was indeed mistaken to tolerate their presence. They are quite bothersome…’ Hiruzen reflected with a soft, weary sigh.
Hiruzen was not one to question his teachers, but at that moment, he was certainly doing just that. He knew from this point on that the Civil Council would be an even greater nuisance. Though Hiruzen couldn't blame their anger, he could, however, blame them for wanting to direct that same anger at helpless newborns. An outcome that would only bring about more issues, not only in these chambers but also within the village, if he did not act quickly. Regrettably, the solution involved ultimately dissolving the Civil Council entirely.
A decision whose outcome would lead to Hiruzen being berated endlessly by the village elders, especially Danzō, who was always ready to seize any opportunity to criticize and defy his every decision.
‘But not as much of an annoyance as the Hyūga Clan have been and will even more so become in the future…’ Hiruzen thought as his eyes were laid upon Hiashi.
Noticing the expression of the individual in question, which indicated some hesitance in following his words.
Mirroring what appeared to be irritation at being told what to do, and something else. Displeasure? Anger? Distaste even? For the decision he had made regarding Naruto and his siblings, Hiruzen could never genuinely tell with the Hyūga. After all, they were a clan that was always somewhat exemplary in concealing their facial emotions behind masks of stony expressions. However, that didn’t mean Hiruzen hadn’t seen enough in Hiashi’s countenance to draw his deductions.
In Hiashi’s case, he and his clan had always been an unopposed problem, not only for Hiruzen but also for both his senseis, Hashirama and Tobirama, who had tried to rein in the clan that considered themselves superior to all others.
Viewing that ever since the Hyūga clan set foot in Konohagakure, they developed a predilection for believing they were many things of which they were not. For instance, they considered themselves the most powerful clan in the village due to their famed Visual Jutsu and the prowess of their Taijutsu in combat as shinobi. This all-pervading arrogance led the entire clan to regard themselves as standing above all others, proclaiming to be the most substantial vanguard of Konoha’s shinobi forces, or likening themselves to being the central pillar of noble clans that upheld Konohagakure. However, all of these perceptions were far from the harsh truth.
Since it was all related to how it connected with the current matter at hand, the Hyūga clan had always considered themselves above certain laws of the village, believing they could act as they pleased and regard themselves as superior to following a Hokage’s command or decree. The frustrating part was that none of this was done directly, but always in an indirect manner. The silent sort of defiant arrogance that was arguably borderline treasonous and had proven in both the past and present to hinder key missions significant to the high command of Konohagakure’s shinobi forces.
Such as the Hyūga Clan, who on various occasions disclosed the critical and closely guarded village secret of who the Jinchūriki of the Nine-Tailed Fox was. In both Mito and Kushina’s cases, this had provoked the ire of both the First and Second Hokage, himself, as well as Minato when he rose to the position of Fourth. The Byakugan had always been a nuisance to the village; necessary in many situations, yet still a nuisance nonetheless, especially when the Hyūga butted into affairs that didn't concern them or misused their Visual Jutsu.
All of this was subsequent only to the Hyūga Clan Main Family's Juinjutsu, the prominent issue of their clan for all four Hokage over their respective tenures in ruling the village.
“Let this be your only warning on the matter entirely,” Hiruzen said, addressing the room with a finality in his voice.
While also in the process of fixing his countenance to direct a sharp glare toward members of the Civil Council, he exuded an ample dose of killing intent to emphasize that death was the penalty for defying him. This was accompanied by an even more rigid and unyielding glare.
One that was directed solely at Hiashi when Hiruzen’s eyes focused on the man. Who, in return, subtly raised his eyebrows, picking up on the message conveyed by Hiruzen’s glare. This caused the veins near Hiashi’s temples to bulge slightly for a moment due to a surge in his chakra, before he quickly retracted that flow altogether, ensuring no one could catch a glimpse of his irritation and offense. He appeared to be steeling his features even more under the intimate examination and scrutiny of Hiruzen.
Even though Hiruzen knew, as they both did, that the damage had been done by Hiruzen observing Hiashi’s nuanced form of physical emotion through his eyes.
“I agree,” Danzō said calmly.
Drawing Hiruzen's eyes to turn their full concentration to the man now, alongside the gazes of everyone else in the room.
“The jinchūriki and his siblings should not be killed…” Danzō continued to speak.
Hiruzen narrowed his eyes as he listened to the way he drew out his words slowly.
“...but…” Danzō continues, trailing off as he speaks.
Driving forth, Shikaku raised his head somewhat more than usual, apparently paying closer attention to what the elder was about to say. This action was mirrored by a few others who were also curious about where the scarred man would lead his words.
‘Here it comes…’ Hiruzen thought, his right hand clenching into a fist somewhat.
“...they cannot just remain weak,” Danzō states, concluding the first half of his point.
Immediately making Biwako’s face scrunch even more than usual when she was very displeased.
As Danzō spoke, tensions escalated in silence. Hiruzen sensed this clearly, especially as he infused his chakra to perceive the others who were undoubtedly displeased with what he was about to suggest.
Biwako, Taji, Tsunade, Jiraiya, Tsume, and Shikaku were the individuals experiencing that feeling at that moment. Each showed a slight flare-up in their unique chakra signatures.
“If trained appropriately and under suitable conditions, they could benefit the village,” Danzō adds.
‘Danzō…’ Hiruzen thought, a feeling of distaste engulfing his mind.
Hiruzen was not easily angered, yet when it came to Danzō Shimura, he often felt considerable rage, cleverly masking it with a great deal of patience.
Ever since that day their sensei sacrificed himself, Danzō deteriorated both as a person and as a shinobi of his village. The consequences of this decline were evident in his actions over the past few decades that followed, and when he finally withdrew from active service and became an elder of Konohagakure. For instance, he founded and led a branch of the village’s Anbu training subdivision known as Root, or the Foundation. An organization that played a significant role in why Danzō rightfully earned the title of Darkness of the Shinobi. His training methods alone explained why he was wary of the man, as the Foundation forced its members to suppress their emotions.
Subsequently, rumors emerged regarding stages that Hiruzen could not verify, despite his in-depth investigation of the group. It was claimed that the young initiates were brought up together, only to be forced into betraying and killing one another. This method seemed aimed at eradicating any sense of sentiment or emotional bonds.
A method that was very similar, if not identical, to the Kirigakure Academy's former graduation test, which has been conducted since the era of the First Mizukage.
Additionally, individuals deemed potential threats were eliminated solely for expressing their dislike for Konoha, even though they had not taken any action against the village. Underscoring why the Shinobi Military Council of Konoha remains cautious of the man, especially Hiruzen.
It was a well-known point to him and a few others that after Tobirama had chosen him to become Hokage, something had changed in Danzō. Something that not only harmed but also proved detrimental to the village’s stability and its foreign policy. Whether it was for personal gain or to see him fail to hold the title of Hokage, Hiruzen could not say where others voiced such sentiments.
“Hiruzen, I would suggest that you hand the jinchūriki and his siblings over to me,” Danzō starts, turning his head somewhat. “Perhaps training him at the appropriate time would effectively transform him into a valuable asset for the village,” Danzō explains, expanding on his intentions.
‘More like a way to turn him into your puppet, to control and unleash at your command.’ Hiruzen thought in anger.
His thoughts were further interrupted by the release of the KI from a few individuals in the room upon hearing Danzō's attempt to take Naruto under his wing.
“That is absolutely out of the question,” Jiraiya spoke first, his tone indicating his readiness to confront the man for speaking in such a manner.
“As if we’d be foolish enough to bother in entertaining such a request!” shouted a livid Tsunade as she glared at Danzō. “We are all aware of the rumors about the Foundation's training methods for its assets. Your suggestion and request appear to be nothing more than a power grab despite the circumstances,” Tsunade continues, directly confronting Danzō on his intentions.
Though if Hiruzen had any say in the matter, it was bold of Danzō to make such a request so brazenly, which had made him even more suspicious. Was it purposeful? And if it was, what was his reason behind it?
“And handing the jinchūriki and his siblings over to a clan is a better solution?” Danzō asked with an accusing tone, deliberately opening his uncovered eye now.
“The difference between Naruto and his siblings going to a clan and going to you and the Foundation is that one is for his wellbeing, while the other is solely for someone else’s ambition,” Tsume states in response, narrowing her eyes.
Tsume was never one to mince words; she preferred to speak bluntly about Danzō’s accusation. Since she, Kushina, and Mikoto Uchiha were good friends in the academy and continued that friendship into adulthood, it meant she had a stake in the matter at hand, primarily concerning Naruto and his siblings' well-being and ensuring no harm came to them, as well as where they would be growing up in the village.
“Furthermore, the clans of Konohagakure have a primary obligation to serve the village and its Hokage. Not personal gain.” Shikaku begins, narrowing his eyes.
He decided to sit up completely and respond to this accusing question now.
“Even if you argue that Naruto being raised by any clan would disrupt the village's power balance, you would imply that the clan could commit treason and provoke open warfare and civil conflict with both the village and the Land of Fire,” Shikaku asserts, presenting his perspective. “Proposing such an idea could arouse suspicion and potentially lead to that clan's isolation,” he adds, emphasizing the possible consequences. “As for you, Danzō, you’re the only one here who sees enemies lurking in every shadow. Your own history speaks volumes to that fact...” Shikaku trails off.
He quickly fell silent after saying what he needed to say, a habit that Shikaku had maintained since joining the Shinobi Council, much to Hiruzen's gratitude. It was Shikaku and Shibi who stood at the forefront of this council, articulating what needed to be expressed. One was harshly practical and immensely pragmatic, thinking clearly before acting and not allowing emotions to interfere. The other relied on their superior intellect to read people and the overall atmosphere.
Using background information, past knowledge, and shinobi military personnel files and records, he gained a better understanding of who he would be dealing with on a day-to-day basis, or if a new piece had been introduced to the board in the future.
“Naruto and his siblings represented the vision for which Minato and Kushina sacrificed their lives,” Shikaku reiterates. “Minato’s last wish as Hokage was for them, particularly Naruto, to be recognized as children and heroes of the village. This aligns with the legacy of Konoha, as Lord Third elaborated at the start of our meeting. However, your request, in conjunction with the Civil Council’s demands, contradicts Lord Fourth’s intentions,” Shikaku concludes.
Chōza and Inoichi acknowledged this with a nod of agreement. They, too, were childhood friends of Minato, a bond that not only flourished during their time at the shinobi academy but was also solidified after it and during the Third Great Shinobi War.
However, the same couldn’t be said for Fugaku, who was Minato’s rival and, at that moment, was silent amid it all. Hiashi, in turn, remained quiet and seemed disinterested in the matter, as it did not concern him. Hiruzen attributed this to the Hyūga’s immense irritation at his clan’s efforts and contributions to the village being overshadowed by certain clans, individual shinobi, and specific battles during the shinobi wars over the years.
More recently, through Minato and his efforts during the Third Great Shinobi War, he gained recognition and held the title of Hokage. Achievements that further pushed the Hyūga Clan’s name into the shadows rather than into the spotlight.
“We require a weapon, Shikaku,” Danzō asserts, elevating his voice slightly as he strikes the ground with his cane. “We need a powerful one that can protect this village in the future, and currently, we possess seven of them,” he states.
“The Nine-Tailed Fox must be eliminated!” exclaims a merchant from the civilian side of the council, raising his voice.
“Once again, Naruto is not the Nine-Tails,” Biwako asserts, maintaining a level tone.
His wife’s voice began to take on an undertone of anger at these people’s stupidity, as reflected in the tone she had adopted.
“And how can you all be so certain of that?!” a silk merchant exclaims, raising his voice as well.
Just before the room erupted into further shouting from the civilians, a chilling wave of chakra filled the air. Its intensity weighed heavily on everyone present, affecting them to varying degrees.
As a new individual spoke up to introduce himself at the source of the chakra.
“Oh… we are certain of it,” said the eerily frigid, authoritative voice.
The figure who stood before his party as the double doors of the council chambers opened was someone Hiruzen instantly recognized.
His fourth advisor.
He had reached the age of 60 and looked drastically younger, not appearing that age as he stood at a height of six feet five inches, having developed his body into a well-muscled and exceptionally strong figure. His vibrant red hair matched the vividness of his equally red beard, showing no gray hairs in sight. His striking red hair, illuminated in certain lights that shone like blood, was dangerously complemented by his stormy, violet-purple eyes, which pierced like lightning.
And his name…
…was Lord Kamado Uzumaki.
The current Tennō-Khagan and Supreme Daimyō of Uzu no Kuni, Shōgun of Uzushima Shogunate, and Clan Head of the Uzumaki Clan…
…and father to Kushina Uzumaki…
…and the grandfather to his newborn grandchildren from his first child, daughter, and heir.
On his right stood his beloved wife, Kōgō-Khatun, and Hime Momo Uzumaki. She is the current Lady of the Uzumaki Clan, mother of Kushina Uzumaki, and grandmother to Kushina’s children. Additionally, she currently leads the Uzumaki Clan’s Headhunters alongside her husband.
Momo is a tall woman who is the same age as her husband, Kamado, and possesses a mature physique. She has long red hair styled into a spiky ponytail, accented by a significant strand that hangs down on the right side of her face. Her large, sharp eyes are a lilac hue and framed by short eyebrows that give her a determined look.
“Hiruzen, could you please clarify the purpose of Lord Kamado and Lady Momo Uzumaki's presence here in the Leaf alongside their family?” Homura inquires, exhibiting surprise.
Understanding it could signify one significant outcome for everyone involved…
…the disruption of every plan and suggestion that existed beyond his thinking, which would not be permitted in their presence.
Particularly when some of Kushina's younger siblings were here with their father, demonstrating unity and signaling their commitment to now defend her memory and children.
“We're here because Konohagakure as a whole has declined even further than your current issues,” said a younger man who stood next to Kamado and Momo.
He was the second oldest and first son of their blood, and his name was Tanjirō Uzumaki. The 24-year-old man was the second-oldest child of Kamado and Momo, and the second of the triplets born next to Kushina. Known far and wide across the Elemental Nations as the Crimson Blade of Five Elements, he was currently acting as the temporary heir to the clan head in Kushina’s place until Naruto was old enough and ready to take the mantle.
He closely resembles his father, Lord Kamado, in appearance from a past time in his youth. He has an average height, similar to that of his father, and sports fairly tanned skin, an athletic and muscular build, ruffled long red hair, and striking violet-purple eyes. His hair is styled to reveal his forehead, displaying his village and clan’s Hitai-ate.
After him came his sister, Uzume Uzumaki. The third oldest of triplets and second-born daughter. Among the Elemental Nations, she was known as the Crimson Blade of Whirlpools for her expertise in the seven forms of Whirlpool Kenjutsu as well as for leading the Uzumaki Clan's Boneguard.
The third was a 24-year-old who bore an almost identical resemblance to her recently deceased sister. She had fair skin and a curvy, yet slender and muscular physique, with violet eyes that outshone those of her elder sister. She wore an ancient, reformed steppe armor adorned with bones, including in the gaps of the armor itself. Completing her appearance was her Uzumaki red hair, which typically hung straight to her waist when not in battle; however, it was currently styled in a bun. She also wore her Hitai-ate and a fur-lined helmet adorned with a horsehair plume.
Then, after Uzume came Kūkaku Uzumaki, who was the Crimson Blade of Fist and Combustion and the current leader of the Uzumaki Clan Demolitions and Fireworks Unit.
The 22-year-old is a youthful-looking woman with red hair, average height, and striking violet eyes. She wears bandages over her long, messy red hair, which displays the Uzumaki Clan Symbol and is parted at the small of her back. Her outfit consists of a black and red skirt paired with a provocative red robe that accentuates her ample bosom, complemented by black sandals and a blood-red cloak. Her right arm and both ankles are covered in bandages, and two tattoos adorn her left arm.
Beside her stands her younger sister and twin, Utahime Uzumaki, the Crimson Blade of the Eclipse and the current leader of the Uzumaki Eclipsed Bloodguard.
She appears as a 22-year-old woman of slender build and average height, possessing the red hair characteristic of her clan. In her case, her hair is long, extending down her back and tied in a low ponytail adorned with white and red ribbons, with some strands secured behind her head. She has thin eyebrows, purple eyes, and a scar on the right side of her face that crosses the bridge of her nose. She wears an Uzushiogakure headband along with an altered Miko outfit, consisting of a blood-red hakama and a black kosode, complemented by black foot and ankle-supporting sandals.
Additionally, she wears a long-sleeve armor mesh shirt beneath her outfit, complemented by black plated armor covering her back, shoulders, torso, hakama, ankles, and feet. All these components are enhanced with fūinjutsu, making them lighter and silencing any sound during her movements.
Which led them to the subsequent individual who was present with the group, who, for evident reasons, elicited a sudden chill down Hiruzen’s spine.
His name is Michikatsu Uzumaki. He is the eldest of two twins born to Kamado and Momo, known as the Crimson Blade of the Moon and the current leader of the Uzumaki Clan Moonguard.
He is a 21-year-old man who, in appearance, is very tall and possesses a muscular build, similar to that of his father, while inheriting his mother's profoundly majestic and dignified presence. He has a pale skin complexion, violet eyes, and long, spiky Uzumaki red hair kept in a ponytail, along with his Uzushiogakure headband. Dressed in a purple-and-black hexagonal patterned nagagi kimono and black umanori-style hakama pants secured with a white uwa-obi, he carries what Hiruzen perceives as a fleshy katana at his side. The katana features eyes visible between the wrapping of the tsuka-ito on its handle.
Beside him stood his younger brother, Yoriichi Uzumaki. He was the second of healthy twins born to Kamada and Momo and was well-known in the Shinobi World as the Crimson Blade of the Sun, serving as the present leader of the Uzumaki Clan's Sun Division.
He was a young man of 21 years, inheriting his father's tall, muscular build, fair skin, violet eyes, and long, spiky red hair, which he tied in a ponytail adorned with his Uzushiogakure headband. While he bore a resemblance to his elder twin brother Michikatsu, he had a slightly more slender physique, shorter bangs, and wavier hair. His aloof and solemn expression indicated his rare displays of emotion. He wore a blood-red haori over a black nagagi kimono, complemented by black umanori-style hakama. At his left waist were two swords: a katana and a wakizashi. He also sported hanafuda earrings featuring the Uzumaki Clan symbol at their center.
Following Yoriichi was the 20-year-old Giyū Uzumaki, the Crimson Blade of Water, who currently leads the Uzumaki Clan’s Hidden Corps of Black Sand.
A young man, fairly tall with a lean, muscular stature and pale complexion, who wears a serious and emotionless expression. He possesses unruly red hair of uneven lengths that sticks up in tufts around his head, tied back in a low, messy ponytail at the base of his neck. His bangs fall over his eyes in an uneven fringe. His eyes are sharp and moderately large, with deep purple irises framed by thin red eyebrows. He wears a black shinobi uniform that covers him from neck to toe, along with a pair of similarly black zōri with black straps and tabi socks underneath, all of which match the color of his uniform.
Beside them stood additional individuals…
…ones for whom Hiruzen recognized and for which his eyes widened with both immense shock and deeply repressed relief.
Alongside the red-haired family were Kagami Uchiha and Torifu Akimichi, both former teammates of Hiruzen.
After their sensei Tobirama's death, they similarly took part in all of Konoha’s wars. However, they departed from the village during the early to mid-phase of the Third War, before Konoha became fully involved. Their goal at that time was to deliver crucial information to the Uzumaki Clan regarding a coordinated military effort against their land, people, and clan. Subsequently, they aimed to support the evacuation efforts of Uzu no Kuni, which they successfully achieved.
Thanks to them, the Uzumaki Clan received prompt warnings to prepare for defense and potential evacuation, which came to pass during the fall of Uzushio.
And when the Third Great War escalated, they chose to withdraw from the front lines and remained with the Uzumaki Clan in their settlement in the Land of Fire at Kamado's invitation.
“You dare to say-”
“I dare to say because it’s precisely as I’ve said it. Konohagakure as a whole has waned since we were last here,” Tanjirō spoke once more, cutting the silk merchant off. “Such a shame, truly, to some extent, I like the view more than people,” he added.
“I asked for my old friend, Lord Kamado, to be present since this is a family matter,” Hiruzen explained, knowing that it would be quite a scene, given the comments from both Danzō and the civilians present. “Next to also asking Kagami and Torifu, my former teammates, to emerge from their retirement as I require their assistance and counsel,” he added, disclosing.
The assembled group remained silent, and the civilians themselves were the most wary of them. Some of those present were even whispering to one another, undoubtedly trying to measure what to do or how to proceed. Among the shinobi, only Fugaku and Hiashi appeared to share the same mindset, particularly evident in the way the veins around Hiashi's eyes pulsed briefly once again. As for Fugaku, he was eyeing Kagami with surprise because it was his great-granddaughter to whom the current Uchiha clan head was married.
Eyes shifted again to Kamado, who slowly made his way to the side, behind and past the seats of the Shinobi Military Council and the clan leaders, flanked by Kagami and Torifu. He sat down, pulling out his seat, back straight, sighing as he surveyed everyone with a calm, unreadable expression. His son, Tanjiro, was the next to move as his siblings closed the doors to the chambers once more, and he took the seat of his clan next to the other clan heads.
A long moment passed before Kamado cleared his throat and decided to speak now.
“Now that the room has finally settled, we can start and conclude this conversation and begin anew tomorrow when the day is fresh. First, my grandson and my grandchildren will remain with their family and clan. Second, understand that neither I nor my children will tolerate any petty vengeance or anger directed at them. Whether you are a clan member, civilian, or shinobi, if you harm a single hair on them, I will remind you why our clan is known as the ‘Embodiment of Fury and Rage’, and it shall result in your permanent…end.” Kamado spoke with a fierce look as he continued.
He allowed a beat of silence to pass as he pulsed forth a strong blast of killing intent that hit them all.
Although the shinobi in the room experienced little impact, they did visibly flinch at the weight behind the potency of his killing intent and how he would treat each of them as he conveyed through it. The same couldn’t be said for the civilians in the room who leaned forward on the table, breathed hard to catch their breath, clenched their hands at their chest, or felt ill or otherwise were perspiring heavily.
“Thirdly, as an adviser to the Hokage, I will work alongside Hiruzen with Kagami and Torifu to ensure the village moves forward, following the plans he laid out in his letter before my arrival. Fourth, as you might have anticipated, my clan is almost officially back to help clear the rubble, repair the village, and arrange honorable funerals for the deceased nobles.” Kamado went on, ready to conclude. “Lastly, as council members, you take your orders from the person in the hat, whose decisions are final when he speaks. Challenging your leader, who has made significant contributions to your home and nation and mine, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. If you find something to be unjust or unreasonable, refrain from speaking out of turn and follow the proper channels and decorum expected of you. Is that understood?” Kamado asked, his expression serious.
No one spoke as they gazed at him, while the civilians tried to stay calm despite the fear in their hearts.
“Consider this your one and only warning… and my mercy,” Kamado said as he prepared to stand up.
“You dare to come in here… into this village… into these chambers… and think you can make decisions regarding the future of it?!” Danzō asked now, standing with an angry expression and his tone raised.
Many looked at one another, and Jiraiya was the one who moved away from the general vicinity, where he had been somewhat close to the man.
“Mind your tongue, Danzō…or you shall regret it.” Kagami quietly warned him, neither with anger nor with threats of what he would do, but rather indicating what might befall him.
“I will not have this! Nor will our village! You who couldn’t even defend your homeland, but still think yourself worthy to hold the titles of it that your forefathers held!” Danzō continued to speak vigorously with offensive words.
Hiruzen was about to speak and tell him to shut his mouth before he made a fool of himself, but it was too late to do so as he felt it move as quickly as a lightning bolt…
It came first to his senses like a wind passing over him and in every direction before he heard the sound of flesh and bone being ripped apart and severed, alongside something heavy dropping with a thud to the wooden floor, followed by a rapid dripping noise of some form of liquid and the iron scent that came after it as it continued.
When he turned toward it as the gasps were made, Hiruzen’s eyes widened as he saw it for himself.
Danzō’s right arm was a mangled wreck, covered in deep cuts as it lay severed on the ground beneath him. Further, the wrappings around Danzō’s head and right eye were undone, and the right eye and the skin around it that had been previously untouched bore a deep gash and slash that was spilling blood. As for his body, deep sword cuts raked across his entire form as he found himself on his knees, bleeding profusely, groaning in pain, and trying to hold himself together, while his nerves finally caught up with the wounds he had freshly received.
Not far from him lay nine of Danzō’s precious Root Anbu, all of whom currently lay dead on the council chamber floors with their heads severed and blood leaking quickly and generously onto the floor.
“Danzō Shimura… you always go too far and… forget your place within this village…” Michikatsu began, his tone chilling like ice as he stood tall near the man’s shoulder where his severed arm had been.
A freezing sensation erupted outward in waves and bursts, causing Hiruzen and, no doubt, everyone in the room to feel a sudden chill run down their spines as the room was layered with killing intent beyond what they could typically handle. Even Michikatsu’s words and breath were filled with it, and blood began to drip from him like sweat, honey, oil, and ink melding together on flesh, sticking to the body, revealing the intensity of his killing intent manifesting in a visual form.
A burning sensation arose as a vision of burning violet purple eyes was revealed to them as they witnessed their own gruesome and creative deaths. Not just death…
…but murder made manifest.
The intensity and high volume of it was so great that two of the civilian council members dropped to the ground, undoubtedly dead from being unable to handle the killing intent that permeated the chamber and the visions of their deaths.
Danzō, however, showed no intention to speak as he clutched his eye, which was certainly no longer useful to him, thanks to Michikatsu.
“...and for that alone, you seem… quite keen on wanting… to most quickly see the Shinigami…” Michikatsu continued to say, never bothering to even look at the man to whom he was talking.
At this very moment, Danzō looked to be shaking with a mix of rage and fear as he clutched his face with gritted teeth. A tear had silently escaped from his left eye as he looked up at Michikatsu.
“...shall I send you to him now…?” he inquired serenely, his voice remaining steady.
“Michikatsu!”
“You will remain silent, Lord Third Hokage of Konohagakure, Hiruzen Sarutobi...” Michikatsu stated calmly with undeniable authority. “I lack the time to entertain your conciliatory nature... nor will I heed your commands. My allegiance lies with my ancestors… my Tennō and Kōgō… my Khagan and Khatun… and to the established hierarchy this village professes to uphold through our alliance...” Michikatsu continued. “Your advisor here, whom you assert... is one of your advisors... has overstepped his bounds. To complicate the situation further… he exceeds his actual authority, which is little and insubstantial, believing he has a say... in where Naruto and the rest of my nieces and nephews will be positioned. As if he... or anyone, yourself included... had any say whatsoever...”
“I acknowledge and understand that. His remarks were baseless, disrespectful, and inappropriate, but it's unnecessary to escalate things this much with a blade in hand,” Hiruzen said, acknowledging his perspective on the situation.
“And that is where you are wrong… it is not for your benefit that I speak, nor the words he spoke that can easily be brushed off…” Michikatsu replied once more, never bothering to turn and face him as the click of his katana being placed in its sheath sounded. “Your former teammate and subordinate, along with the other two, disrupt the established hierarchy, which in turn… gives heed to insubordination among the ranks, clans, and civilians of this village you have led since the latter half of the First Shinobi World War to the Third that just ended only two years ago… A fact of note that he does not acknowledge and that troubles me… It’s unacceptable…”
Although Michikatsu was typically very reserved as a shinobi, he was a firm believer in hierarchy. He valued punctuality and demonstrated considerable respect for the hierarchy of the Uzumaki Clan and the foundational principles of Konohagakure, which contrasted sharply with the disorder it faced at present.
Michikatsu had always been like that, consistently humble and readily acknowledging his failures and any challenges he faced. He demonstrated strong loyalty not only to the principles of Uzushiogakure and Konohagakure, due to their alliance, but also to his clan. Consequently, many of his actions aimed solely at achieving both clan and village objectives.
Despite his outward humility and reserved nature, he was notably cold in the field as a shinobi; his remarks could be pretty harsh, particularly during reprimands. His threats seemed nothing short of cruel and exceptionally serious, as he demanded complete obedience.
“Danzō…” Michikatsu began, with even greater killing intent leaking from his body. “If you’re unsatisfied with how this village will now be running and genuinely wish to challenge us… the Uzumaki Clan that is… which by extension assists the Hokage of the Village Hidden in the Leaves since Lord Hashirama… then why not back up your words and challenge Lord Third or my father to a duel?”
“He won’t do that, elder brother, and you know why,” came a voice from above them, capturing the room's attention.
‘Obanai…’ Hiruzen thought anxiously, looking up at another of Kushina’s brothers, who was observing them upside down on the ceiling.
He was the ninth-born child of Kamado and Momo... and a former student of Orochimaru.
Small in stature, he had a pale complexion, a fairly muscular build, and straight-edged red hair of varying lengths. His almond-shaped eyes that displayed heterochromia—his right eye was gray, and his left eye was purple.
If Hiruzen remembered correctly, Obanai was partially blind in his right eye due to a battle during the Third Great Shinobi War, barely able to see out of it. Beyond that, Obanai hid his mouth with bandages that covered his lower face to conceal the scars he received in his youth as a young shinobi.
“He doesn’t have the courage or strength of character to go through such proper channels and achieve success and actualize his goal, since his preferred weapons have always been the shadows…” Obanai continued, gazing at Hiruzen’s scarred and now bloodied teammate. “...and that is why he will never earn the title, as he is willing to betray his people to secure victories that others would bravely face on the frontline. Sacrificing his own: a commendable quality… only found among cutthroats and traitors.”
“Danzō…” Michikatsu spoke once more, the moment his brother finished speaking.
A collective flinch washed over those in the room, enduring the brunt of his killing intent. Flashes of visions, as swift as lightning, came rapidly, making it harder for those outside the Uzumaki to breathe.
“From here on out…you are to show some respect,” Michikatsu spoke firmly. “Do you understand…?” he asked.
“Oh, I do…” Danzō answered, gritting his teeth. “...and I understand this too. That I will make sure you pay tenfold in kind for this when the time comes,” Danzō said, looking at Michikatsu, who scoffed and didn’t appear offended.
“Is that so...? We shall see… I wish you the best in that endeavor,” Michikatsu said, answering this threat. “For the time being, however, I suggest you follow the orders you have been given and do as you’re told. Either… you get on board… with the new path… or you die… on the old path…” Michikatsu warned. “...when the time comes… of course. When the majesty of the Kami… deems it as so through the orders brought down from the heavens... and given by the Hokage…”
Promptly halting the flow of killing intent that permeated the room, causing the blood generated by the sheer force of his killing intent to hiss and produce smoky steam from evaporation.
He stepped forward a couple of paces, allowing the silence of his presence to continue gripping the room before Body Flickering out of the council chambers so silently that it felt as if he had been removed from the mortal plane of existence.
“Well, with that out of the way, I say this meeting is adjourned until tomorrow morning,” Kamado spoke, forcing Hiruzen to turn and find the man’s eyes on him.
“Yes, that would be for the best,” Hiruzen stated with a sigh before turning to the room. “This meeting is concluded. You may all leave now,” he adds, leaving no room for discussion.
As everyone got up to leave, Hiruzen watched in silence.
However, the Third Hokage couldn’t help but notice with a frown how tightly Hiashi clenched the cane he held as most of the room made their way out. He understood why, though.
The Uzumaki Clan's presence in Konohagakure has now established them as the largest and most powerful clan in the village, pushing Hiashi’s clan into obscurity and surpassing both the Uchiha and Hyūga Clans in strength, versatility, and adaptability. Their impressive number of shinobi, totaling at least twenty-seven million fifty thousand members due to their longevity, further underscores this dominance.
This meant they were and would reclaim their role as the voice for both internal and external matters, just as they were during Hashirama, when Mito stood beside him as his wife.
Despite his immense anger, Hiruzen keenly understood that Hiashi was not foolish enough to believe that he and his clan could clash with a clan like Kamado’s. The history and tales of the Uzumaki, renowned for their vast chakra and masterful fūinjutsu, taijutsu, ninjutsu, and kenjutsu developed through a tradition of harsh, militaristic training, speak for themselves in that regard.
After all, the Uzumaki Clan was a clan of its own making, whose history made the Warring States Period and all the Great Shinobi Wars look like child’s play. Officially founded in 45 D.S., they were unlike their younger cousins, the Senju Clan, who were patient in their development and established in 47 D.S. They were relatively close in their founding to the Uchiha, who were officially established in 48 D.S., making their three clans significantly some of the oldest in the land, older than Hiashi’s clan, which was founded in 3640 A.S. like many other clans before and after that date. To further diminish the significance of the Hyūga clan, in the year 1100 A.S., the Uzumaki Clan established its own hidden village, which remained truly hidden until Hashirama chose to marry Mito Uzumaki and start his own, prompting the Uzumaki to unveil themselves to the world. Thus, the legend of their clan, beyond their talents, spoke for itself; they were like mortal gods in their world.
Similar to the Senju and Uchiha Clans, the Uzumaki and Hyūga Clans were like oil and water. Their battles had stretched far beyond those of the former clans for centuries, and their grudges were much more significant due to numerous bloody reasons. However, after the War of the Great Winter and the breaking of the Hyūga Clan’s once-mighty fighting forces into another clan that left their shores, the Hyūga had no choice but to submit and leave them alone for good.
Furthermore, Konohagakure’s forehead protectors displayed a leaf resembling a whirlpool swirl as if to deepen the offense in their eyes. This design was inspired by the emblem of Uzushiogakure and the Uzumaki Clan, paying homage to their former allies.
And after the Third Great Shinobi War, the village began to embellish their flak jackets with the Uzumaki Clan symbol, serving as a remembrance for those who had lost their lives and died valiantly, nobly, honorably, and bravely during the Fall of Uzushiogakure.
Considering this, Hiruzen realized that it would only lead to trouble and heighten tensions.
From Hiashi or the greater Hyūga Clan itself and its elders? Hiruzen could not say.
He turned to leave but was gently stopped by Kamado, which caused him to face the man.
“We all need to talk,” Kamado said simply with a firmness, before subtly gesturing to those who also remained in the room.
He looked at those still present and then shifted his gaze back to Kamado before releasing a sigh, aware of what this conversation could possibly entail.
“Very well. Let us proceed with this discussion in my office,” Hiruzen remarked, walking with them in tow behind him.
They left a seething Danzō behind as more of his Root Anbu Black Ops attended to him.
Not bothering to notice the look of loathing in his eyes as he saw them depart...