Chapter Sixteen: Shikakuro IV

[A/N: This chapter will take place at three places at the same time. But the Main body's PoV is the most important. The other two is mainly to fill in some blanks. Though I will denote the PoVs on top as they happen for ease of understanding.

P.S. This is a massive chapter. And I am editing it alone… so umm if there are mistakes do forgive me xD]

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October 20th, Year 66, Konoha Ninja Academy.

[PoV of Clone No. 1]

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I was sitting in the classroom, meticulously reviewing the plans to ensure their flawless execution. Among the clones and the original, I had the least demanding task - to simply stay in class and avoid arousing suspicion.

It was a super boring job, I tell you… And I loved every bit of it.

However, my peaceful focus was interrupted by an aggressive voice from the side. "Hey, Lazy-ass! Looks like the sun rose on the wrong side today, finding you awake in class," came the taunt.

Internally sighing, I immediately recognized the source of the voice. Deciding it wasn't worth my attention at the moment, I chose to ignore it.

"Oh? Are you sleeping with your eyes open? Are you a fish or something? Well… can't deny the fact with those eyes." The voice continued, relentless in its attempt to provoke a reaction.

But this time one of my beloved min- friends' decided to intervene.

"Um, Izumi-san, you're being a bit noisy and troublesome. I'm sure Boss is just lost in his thoughts," Shikaichi interjected with his characteristic laziness.

Ah, Shikaichi was becoming one of my personal favorites among my friends. He had a keen understanding of his role and, being a Nara, he could usually decipher my intentions... most of the time.

I should give him a raise… Not that I was paying him or anything…

Just as I settled back into my task, I was abruptly interrupted again. "Shut up, Lazy-ass number 2! You're no better than him! Hmph! I'm glad Izuna-chan has already graduated and won't be corrupted by your bad habits," Izumi's voice cut through the air, filled with biting disdain.

For the first time, I couldn't resist reacting, though not with anger. I found amusement in the thought that without Izuna in the class, Izumi was likely feeling lonely.

Ah… poor kid… probably doesn't know how to make friends. [A/N: Yeah Kuro is clueless, as he always sleeps in class.]

She is just like Naruto and Ino… trying to attract my attention by doing weird things.

Turning towards her with an innocent smile, I asked, "You said something, Izumi-san?" My attempt at friendliness seemed to only fuel her anger.

Strange… was my smile not friendly enough?… But I always use that with the toddlers and they love it…

"So you've finally stopped ignoring me, huh? You are such an Ass!" she retorted, her brows furrowing in frustration.

I felt amused inside, and decided to prank her a bit.

So, I looked at her fully surprised, and then asked with a tone of understanding, "Ah, I get it. Izumi-san, you want to become my bully, right?"

The class fell silent, all eyes fixed on us. I could see Izumi's face turning red from a mixture of anger and embarrassment at being the center of attention. Unable to bear it any longer, she screeched at me before storming back to her seat, huffing in indignation.

Secretly chuckling at the red-faced girl, I turned my attention towards the scene outside the window as I wondered how the other clones and the original were doing.

…

…

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Same day, at One of the Entrances to Root's base.

[PoV of Clone No. 2]

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"You sure we have enough people?" I sarcastically asked the ANBU Commander, who was wearing a mask that resembled a monkey or gorilla. For simplicity, I decided to refer to him as Gorilla, considering the similar monkey mask worn by the other ANBU lady accompanying him.

Though it seems they didn't understand my sarcasm…

Gorilla-san didn't show any visible reaction but responded matter-of-factly, "According to your intel, there should be around 120 ninjas in root. Among them, they have 2 Elite Jonins and 5 regular Jonin level operatives, with the rest being Chunin.

We've assembled the entire ANBU team of Jonin-level and higher operatives for this mission. Also, the other Elite Jonins and the T&I department will provide support during the takedown and custody. Not to mention…"

He looked at me with a meaningful gaze, and I lazily replied, "And finally, you have me to seal all the exits and monitor the entire premises to ensure no one escapes. Got it."

He nodded, but added a word of caution, "Don't do anything that might reveal your abilities to others. Hokage-sama was very clear about limiting the number of people who know about your shadows. Only use them openly as a last resort. The ANBU force is aware of your abilities, so you don't have to worry about them. But still, only take action if there are no other options."

Once again, I nodded in acknowledgment. Glancing at my pocket watch, I noted that it was 5 minutes till 10.

Time to get started, I guess.

Giving the commander a determined look, I vanished into the shadows. It was time to cleanse the tainted roots and eliminate any remaining threats.

Hopefully it won't be too troublesome…

…

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Same Day, at the Council Meeting Room, Hokage Tower.

[Kuro's main body]

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Being one with the shadows, I positioned myself against the wall where Pervy Sage was leaning. My task was already halfway completed. I was part of the sealing team responsible for sealing off this location, ensuring that once the seal was activated, no one could escape the premises. It was similar to the seal Jiraiya and I had placed during Aunt Kushina's childbirth, but with the opposite intent. Now, my role was to remain undetected and unseen, silently observing the unfolding events and providing support when necessary.

With a few minutes remaining before the meeting would commence, and the main participants yet to arrive, I engaged in a conversation with the Pervy Sage. We were discussing an interesting topic at the moment.

"You couldn't complete the mission?" I asked, a tinge of disbelief in my voice.

He sighed dramatically, complaining like a child, "Sigh... She was as stubborn as ever... just look at my face! It still bears the mark of her beautiful fist!"

I wasn't interested in his theatrics. "Answer the question, you perverted old man. She's crucial for the next plan! How did you fail? You had all the evidence and everything. And didn't you mention you can definitely finish the mission?" I pressed him for an answer.

He gave me a disgusted look for not playing along, but then smirked annoyingly and replied, "When did I say I failed? I merely mentioned her stubbornness." His smug expression revealed his satisfaction.

"Troublesome..." I sighed, acknowledging his achievement. Deep down, I knew that bringing the Slug Sannin back was a task only Jiraiya could accomplish.

The old pervert remained silent, chuckling softly as we observed the clan heads entering the room and taking their seats. Soon, the Old Man Third, Danzo, and the other two elders joined them. I heightened my senses to the maximum, ensuring that no unwanted incidents would occur.

"Relax, Gaki... Don't accidentally trigger the seals. We have everything under control," he whispered in a low tone that only I could hear.

I forced myself to calm down, although my focus never wavered from the four individuals in the room.

I noticed Old Man Third glancing in our direction several times, his face filled with resignation and sadness.

Meanwhile, Danzo surveyed the room and its occupants, projecting an air arrogance as if he owned the place, yet his guarded posture revealed years of experience and trained instincts.

While Homura and Koharu sat with an authoritative demeanor, asserting their presence.

Soon, Uncle Minato entered the room accompanied by his personal guards. As a sign of respect, everyone in the room stood up except for Danzo. Even the other two elders, despite their reservations about Minato's suitability as Hokage, knew better than to disregard the customary gesture. Danzo's action didn't go unnoticed, but being an elder, it was left unvoiced. Danzo himself took the opportunity to play the fragile card.

"Forgive me for not standing, Minato. With some old injuries flaring, it's a bit difficult for this old man," he claimed, spewing a load of nonsense.

Uncle Minato didn't react to Danzo's excuse and simply smiled, gesturing for everyone to take their seats. However, he didn't immediately commence the meeting, which visibly irritated Koharu. She called out in a chiding tone, as if scolding a disobedient child, "Well, everyone is here. Shouldn't you start the meeting already, Hokage-sama?"

Uncle Minato remained composed and replied, "We are waiting for one last member to join us. They are a prominent member of the council, so we cannot begin without them."

From my vantage point in the shadows, I rolled my eyes, knowing exactly who Uncle Minato was referring to. This was all staged for her dramatic entrance. And right on cue, in 3, 2, 1...

The doors were forcefully flung open, revealing a stunning blonde woman in a green kimono. To everyone's surprise, it was Princess Tsunade, who had left Konoha for personal reasons and adamantly refused to return.

Silence filled the room as all eyes fell upon her. Even Danzo couldn't resist commenting, breaking the stillness.

"So you've finally decided to grow up and return, Tsunade? Well, perhaps it's not too late. You can still fulfill your duty to the village," he said with indifference, earning a death glare from Tsunade.

Before the tension escalated into a verbal battle, Uncle Minato took charge and initiated the meeting.

"Well, now that everyone is here, let's get started, shall we?" Uncle Minato said with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

The room nodded in agreement as he began the first agenda of the meeting. "As you are all aware, Orochimaru has defected and will be classified as an S-ranked missing-nin."

Although the news wasn't entirely unexpected, it was a different matter to acknowledge that one of the three heroes from the Second Ninja War was now a criminal.

Danzo sneered and interjected, "And why hasn't he been captured yet? Don't tell me you're not capable enough even for that. You have to do better to be a Hokage, Minato. You're exposing our weaknesses to other nations!" His tone was reprimanding.

Uncle Minato remained composed, glancing briefly at old man Third, who lowered his head in guilt.

The meeting then delved into discussions about the village's stance, the necessary actions against Orochimaru, and how to relay the news to the villagers. Uncle Minato was simply buying time, raising random issues about the situation, while waiting for my signal.

I was feeling nervous, as this whole plan depends on the competence of the ANBU and the Jonins of the village. Though, with the staggering number the village has over the ROOT, it shouldn't be any issue.

And just as I thought, it didn't take long before I received a message from one of my shadow clones stationed with at the ROOT base, informing me of the status of the ROOT operatives.

The message was simple: Mission completed. All original targets captured. ROOT base is under control.

With a smirk, I swiftly activated the seal that enclosed the room. Everyone else remained oblivious to the fact that there was no escape to the room they were in.

Giving my signal to start Plan A, Pervy Sage understood that it was show time as he cleared his throat and walked towards the desk, adopting a serious tone.

"As one of the individuals who has been investigating Orochimaru, I have some interesting findings to share with the council," he announced, unsealing a scroll from which numerous scrolls and mission logs emerged. He displayed them for everyone at the table to see.

From the shadows, I smirked as I observed the changing expressions of everyone present as they inspected the scrolls.

Homura and Koharu trembled visibly, while Danzo remained as impassive as stone, betraying no signs of surprise.

Tsk... What a troublesome man. He truly is suited to be a spy.

With everyone in the room now aware of the incriminating evidence against Danzo, they looked at each other in disbelief, uncertain of what to make of the situation. Some of the Jonin, including Jiraiya, formed a circle around Danzo and the two elders, preparing to take action.

However, Danzo remained unfazed.

He simply sneered and accused, "What is the meaning of this Minato? Are you trying to accuse us of such crimes from a traitor's scrolls? These are clearly plants to frame the higher ups of Konoha."

Uncle Minato's smile widened, and Pervy Sage stepped forward, laughing loudly. The attention of the room was fully focused on them now.

Pervy Sage replied to Danzo's accusation, "Who said I obtained all this information from Orochimaru's lair?" The room fell into silence, awaiting an explanation.

"What do you mean Jiraiya? What are you trying to Say?" Danzo narrowed his eyes.

It was Hiruzen who sighed and pleaded with Danzo, "Give it up, old friend... Since this meeting began, by now your Root base has already been raided, and your operatives have been captured. All these scrolls are directly copied from your base."

Finally, Danzo's composed demeanor wavered. He must have realized that the situation was not in his favor.

However, he was not just any ninja, now was he?

I smirked as I watched my plan coming together. Every piece falling to the right spot.

Danzo already had pricked his finger with a nail, he looked at old man Third and simply said, "I see…" But at that moment his real intent was to use summoning Jutsu to summon the Tapir-like chimera, Baku, right in the middle of the room, to create chaos and attempt to make his escape.

But to his astonishment…

Nothing happened.

Even Danzo couldn't remain calm after such a failure, feeling the sharp edge of a kunai against his neck. Pervy Sage taunted him, "You didn't think we hadn't considered the possibility of you trying something like that, did you?"

From the shadows, I sneered in satisfaction, recalling that it was the Pervy Sage who had boasted that Danzo wouldn't even have the opportunity to summon anything in today's situation. Well, how wrong he was huh?

Good thing that I had added the seal to stop summoning Jutsus.

I could see that Pervy Sage, though trying to maintain his cool, had beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

Well, serves you right. To even doubt me. You troublesome old pervert.

On the other hand, a very angry Danzo said with a grave tone, "I see... So this was all planned." The gravity of the situation was sinking in for him.

All the clan leaders were already on high alert, positioning themselves strategically around the room to ensure that Danzo, the disgusting criminal, could not harm the village's interests.

Hyuuga Hiashi spoke up first, addressing the Hokage, "Hokage-sama, let me block his tenketsu so that Yamanaka-san can extract the information from his mind."

Uncle Inoichi nodded in agreement and turned to Minato, but the Hokage shook his head, cautioning them, "He might seem trapped, but don't let your guard down. Danzo is likely hiding many more secrets within his body."

Danzo attempted to escape by using a substitution Jutsu, but a shadow held him firmly in place. He looked to his left, seeing my pops using the Shadow Binding Jutsu with the Rat Seal.

Realizing the futility of resistance, Danzo sighed, acknowledging his defeat. He then turned his gaze to Old Man Third, attempting to play his last card, "Hiruzen, after all the years I have served Konoha, you—"

Before Danzo could finish his manipulative speech, Princess Tsunade's fist connected with his face, delivering a powerful punch that sent him flying into the wall, tearing his bandages.

Even my pops had to release the Shadow Possession Jutsu due to the force of Tsunade's punch, but he quickly reasserted control by using the Jutsu again. They were not taking any risks.

Now it was Tsunade's turn to speak, her anger palpable. "So it is true… you BASTARD! Whose eyes did you steal? And are those… You filthy MONSTER!"

Everyone in the room stared at Danzo in disbelief as one of the things they had read on the scrolls was now standing before them as living proof.

Uchiha Fugaku, unable to contain his rage, demanded answers with a voice that sounded like the devil himself. "Whose eyes did you steal, Danzo? Whose grave did you desecrate?"

And even I felt righteous fury burning inside me at the sight. Knowing what he had done was one thing, but seeing it was a completely different thing…

"Danzo... Kagami… He… he was our friend... How could you..." It was old man Third who spoke, his voice filled with heartbreak. Even Koharu and Homura could only sigh and look down, unable to comprehend the depth of Danzo's actions.

But Danzo didn't seem to care as he shouted, "Everything I did! Was for Kono—"

His sentence was abruptly cut off as his head was severed from his shoulders by the furious and decisive strike of Uncle Minato… Showing again why he was known as the Yellow Flash. His attack fast and deadly.

Danzo's lifeless head fell to the ground, and Minato, filled with righteous anger, looked down at it in disgust.

"Everything you did... was for yourself," Minato spat with contempt. "And you remained selfish till the bitter end."

No one protested the death of Danzo… And why should they?

Take a traitor like him to trials? Was there even a point?...

There was no need to complicate this matter. He was a master spy after all, every second kept alive would allow him more opportunities to run away.

And all his secrets can still be accessed by the Yamanaka, and the other intelligence Ninjas.

Uncle Minato then turned his gaze towards Homura and Koharu, his tone harsh and unforgiving. "You two will also pay for your crimes. Your crimes, along with Danzo's, will be exposed to the people of Konoha, and you two will be stripped of your powers and will be forced into house arrest till the end of your days."

Silence filled the room as Uncle Minato's words hung in the air. He scanned the faces of those present, each meeting his gaze and straightening themselves instinctively.

I felt his gaze on the corner where I was at, and I could only smile wryly.

"Everyone in this room is an important pillar of Konoha," Uncle Minato declared with determination. "Without each and every one of your support, we cannot move forward." He pointed towards Danzo's headless body. "But traitors like him can destroy us from within."

He took a moment to let his words sink in before continuing with unwavering resolve. "Hear me now, as long as I am Hokage, I will fight for Konoha until my death. Let this be a warning to everyone. Engage in any actions that threaten the stability and well-being of Konoha, and you will face the consequences of my blade. Am I understood?"

In unison, the room filled with the resounding affirmation, "Yes, Hokage-sama."

Uncle Minato nodded with a solemn expression, fully aware of the weight of the situation. He turned his attention to Princess Tsunade and Uncle Inoichi, addressing them with seriousness.

"Lady Tsunade, now that you are back in the village, I implore you to lend your assistance to the Hospital. However, before that, as it is your right, I grant you access to learn the truth from Danzo's body. You have complete authority and access to all the necessary information, and Inoichi will provide you will all the support you need." he said, emphasizing the importance of her role.

Tsunade and Uncle Inoichi nodded in understanding, acknowledging the gravity of the task at hand.

Uncle Minato then shifted his gaze towards Uchiha Fugaku and Hyuuga Hiashi, the leaders of their respective clans. "Fugaku, Hiashi, I entrust you both with the responsibility of keeping the two former elders as prisoners. Ensure that nothing untoward happens under your watch. If anything does, I will hold you both accountable," he stated firmly, emphasizing the seriousness of their duty.

The two clan leaders accepted the assignment, though beads of sweat trickled down their foreheads, betraying their nervousness. The sight amused some in the room, but the underlying tension kept everyone on edge. No one wanted to anger their Hokage at the moment.

Uncle Minato then turned his attention to Pervy Sage, instructing him to lift the seal.

The revelation surprised many in the room, as most were unaware of the intricate seals placed throughout the chamber. Only my pops, muttered a familiar "Troublesome..." under his breath, drawing a smile from me.

I was glad that everything was so…

Anticlimactic…

Nothing went out of what I planned… following my carefully crafted contingency strategies. It was satisfying to see Plan A come to fruition without any deviations.

But even if Plan A failed… I still had 13 more plans in place. So… Umm… I guess Danzo never really had a chance…

However, the reports from my clones indicated fierce battles within the Root Base, suggesting that the elites put up a significant resistance.

Nonetheless, as the ANBU Commander had assured me, the regular Root operatives stood no chance against the much more skilled ANBU Elites.

It was amazing to witness the prowess of some of our non-ANBU elite Jonins.

Among them was a skilled Genjutsu Specialist who possessed an uncanny ability to manipulate the root operatives into fighting amongst themselves. Although he seemed familiar, I couldn't quite place him in my memories. His black hair and distinct ringed red eyes made me wonder if he had any connection to the Uchiha clan, but it was evident that his abilities were not derived from the Sharingan.

In addition to this Genjutsu specialist, there were other Jonins who displayed amazing skills and prowess that were never mentioned in the anime or my recollections. It was impressive to witness Konoha's best coming together to complete this mission.

The ANBU were able to successfully rescue approximately 40 children who were in the early stages of brainwashing, as well as 20 pre-teens who were nearing the completion of their root education.

The entire ordeal was nothing short of disturbing, and it would require extensive mind healing and therapy to reintegrate these individuals into normal society.

I felt a sense of relief after learning that none of the kids were at any risk…

The ANBU were also able to rescue nine clan kids, including two from the Ino-Shika-Cho alliance named Yamanaka Fu and a three-year-old Nara named Shun.

I knew Shun's story well, as he was believed to have been stillborn. Finally, he will be reunited with his family. The other clan kids primarily came from the Hyuuga and Uchiha clans, with one from the Aburame clan.

Additionally, they found Yamato, who by this point went by the name Kinoe. The poor kid had been subjected to experimentation and indoctrination under Danzo's influence.

Only he knew what he had to endure with madmen like Orochimaru and Danzo…

Sigh…

Even though this whole ordeal was troublesome…

At least we were able to come out without any causalities. And that was a blessing in itself…

…

…

The room gradually emptied, leaving behind Uncle Minato, Pervy Sage, Princess Tsunade, my pops, and old man Third.

Sensing that it was safe to reveal myself, I emerged from the shadows with a nonchalant greeting, "Yo."

Seeing me appear with my lazy appearance Uncle Minato smiled at me, while Pervy Sage and pops were rolling their eyes.

Knowing that even though I was acting all normal… it was far from the truth. But they decided not to say anything.

Old Man Third gave me a sad and tired smile, while Princess Tsunade was scrutinizing me with narrowed eyes.

"So, this is the brat, that planned everything? Doesn't seem like much." She stated.

As if I would fall for that trap that I could see coming from miles away. Did she really think I was like a normal kid?

"Huh? Did you say something, granny? I couldn't hear you over all those fake transformations of yours," I replied, pretending to clear my ear with my pinky finger as I lazily looked at her.

Pervy Sage struggled to suppress his laughter, while Uncle Minato and my pops let out sighs of resignation.

Princess Tsunade, clearly incensed, demanded, "Oi... What. Did. You. Call. Me. BRAT?" She was clearly angered by my comment, and I couldn't resist the opportunity to tease her more by calling her "granny."

But well, that can be done another day.

I smirked slightly, deciding to ignore her as I disappeared into the shadows, my voice echoing, "Well, I'm going to take a nap. It was nice to meet you, Granny Tsunade." And with that, I headed towards one of my favorite spots.

As I went away, I could hear Granny Tsunade's enraged voice calling after me, "COME BACK HERE, YOU STUPID BRAT!"

Sigh...

Looks like I will have to deal with another troublesome woman from now on…

What a drag…

…

…

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Welp that concludes Danzo. Who needs him anyways? Pssst.

XD Anyway, from the next chapter it will again turn into light-hearted slices of life for a while as Kuro grows up till his next challenge shows itself.

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