Decision
It was his sensei's message, he recognized his handwriting and been re-reading it several times already.
'Why didn't sensei tell me?' he had been asking himself that over and over.
Was it just like those horrible villager said to him, he's unwanted and a curse? The whole event seem to trigger some unpleasant memories from his past.
He wanted to be mad at his sensei but he couldn't because that would be selfish. He couldn't cry either, he had long ago learned it wouldn't solve anything so he stopped trying. The inmates around him may treat him nice like a family, none of them were the consoling type and more importantly he didn't liked to be pitied.
With the absence of the room's main user, our blond friend became its sole occupant. Without Kirito, the place somehow felt much larger, less lively and scarier. He could still recall the moment Warden Dojima came into the room. At first, he was a little surprised, because his sensei is usually there before anyone.
He should have thought something was off, but he didn't. At least not until the warden came in, his expression should had alerted him something was wrong but he was too dumb to notice. That's when he was given the news and the last note by his sensei.
The warden tries to console him and explain to him the circumstances.
"Naruto, I am sorry. You should know that this had always been a prison."
"Once you served your time. It's time to leave."
"However, I am surprised that Kirito didn't tell you."
Putting his hand on his shoulder, he continued.
"He always hated goodbyes, perhaps that's his way in telling you that."
The warden didn't want to give him too much hope because he knew that he's dead. It's the main reason he didn't tell him the truth.
"I know how close he is to you. Just don't take it too hard but treasure the memory that you had together."
He knew it wasn't much but the boy shouldn't have to go through such traumatic event in his age. Especially when he's just picking up pieces of his life. This is a type of burden he could do without.
Considering the circumstance of Kirito's death, the warden didn't want the young child to feel responsible. His death was because of his own guilt and it had nothing to do with Naruto's painting. Maybe it does, and the circumstances and evidence seems to point to it. Hence, the truth was kept secret, especially from the idiotic Konoha group.
So far, Dojima had only told one person and that is Ryoma. He knew sooner or later, the prison mob-boss will find out and by then it's possible he wouldn't be able to control the damage. Therefore, it's better he's informed than having his people digging around and eventually finding the truth.
In order to keep it under control, the mob-boss and the warden will handle it on two fronts. On the warden side, he had the guards discovering the body put on vacation leave. That way, there won't be any accidental leaks. At least until things died down.
The mob-boss too keep his side under wraps, knowing Kirito's sudden disappearance will get him on many inmates' bad side. Thus, some of his people might try to find him. That's where Ryoma will run damage control.
"That fu***** Kirito, how could he just leave! Have you seen what our boy is like."
It pains them to see their little sunshine so gloomy and they not able to do anything about it.
"Yeah, heartless bas****. One of my cousin is a ninja and good at tracking, we could hire her. She could send him a message from all of us."
Luckily before the conversation could get out of hand, Ryoma stopped them.
"Leave him alone, no matter how he is. He's still my godson's teacher."
"The boy's already a wreck, I don't need you making it worst by beating him up."
"If Naruto want you to find him, fine. But not a moment before."
Sighing a little, Ryoma continued. "Let the kid deal with it for now."
It's a little tough love, but their leader was right it's ultimately the Naruto's decision.
Despite that, it's still tough for them to watch him holing himself in the art-room for at least a week. Everyday, the inmates would take turns to bring him food and showing him their support. It's the most they could do since none of them knew how to console a child. All they could offer were their fist to beat up his teacher.
They did make Naruto chuckle when he imagine his teacher with a black eye. In return, our hero thanked them letting them know its not necessary. Besides, Kirito didn't leave him empty handed. Aside from the art-room, he left him a note.
"Naruto, you want me to *thump* him?" emphasize his action by smacking his fist into his palm.
"You know, I too will leave in two years. I can track him down and bash him a bit for you."
Rememembering Ryoma's words, he quickly added.
"I won't kill him, only a black eye or 2."
It made him laugh when he thought about his sensei with panda eyes.
"Nah, thanks Yuta-nisan. I am alright."
"Kirito-sensei's leaving was just a little too sudden that I didn't know what to think. He had taught me a lot over the years."
"Hell, I don't even know if I should be mad or not."
After putting some thought into it, he says.
"I tell you what, let me sort this out and I will let you know if I want you to thump him before you leave. Deal?!"
"Deal." he quickly responded.
"Hey, kid. You know we will do anything for you, you know that, right? All you need to do is just ask."
"I know, Yuta-nisan. Again, thanks."
In their own way, the inmates got a chance to talk to him and made him feel better. They may not be perfect, but in their own way they were like a family. Just like Kirito, he learned that they too will one day leave. As warden Dojima suggested, their memories together will not be forgotten.
During his time alone, he thought about everything and anything. He thought about his life choice, what he learned up until now, most of all, his dream. More specifically, his shinobi/Hokage dream.
'Why did I want to be a ninja again?' he asked himself.
'Oh, right. It was to become Hokage.'
'Why did I want to become a Hokage in the first place?'
'Oh, yeah. It was one of his promises to his Jii-jii (grandfather).'
He could still faintly remember that day when the aged village leader told him about the past glory of Hokages and how they were respected. It was one of those days where he was kicked out of the orphanage and the Sandaime spent the day with him. By the end of that day, and as naive as he was. He said he wanted to earn the same respect those leader had, thus result in his drive for the Hokage hat.
His bold claim of becoming Hokage was never his intention to annoy those around him. It was actually to remind himself of that goal while giving himself strength. In his situation, it's better to think 'the end justifies the means'. That's how he weathered the pain and sadness as he tell himself he will one day be respected.
Now that he had spent time with criminals, he starts to see the world for what it is. The world isn't black and white like he naively thought it was. In fact most of these so called criminals aren't even one. 20% admitted they did bad things but nothing extreme like raping or serial killers types.
Especially with Ryoma around those criminals wouldn't last a few hours. The bossman hates those types with passion and so do the rest of the inmates. The warden did try to step in but it made no differences. Those prisoners were willing to accept punishment just to remove those types.
Anyway, there are also many inmates that were innocent or just guilty of petty crimes. Reality is harsh because doing the right thing doesn't automatically earn you a bright future. The more Naruto listens, the more realize what it means to have a criminal record. Even after these people were released, the world may not see them the same way.
Love ones, family, even friends may not be there. Out there, society will see you differently when you are a criminal. You are an outcast and will be treat like one. The world was never black and white as he knew them, and he was surrounded by that same controversy since his birth.
Even on daily life basis, there's always a very fine line between good and evil. Hence, even when you go back out there, the world is never the same. As some of the inmates explain to him, his arrival to the prison is a 'setup'. Unfortunately for him, the likely culprits are obviously the people from his home village.
Slowly, our hero starts to understand how big of a scandal it was and what kind of people were involved. As a result, he can see the truth in whom was responsible for him to be in here in the first place. Perhaps not the Hokage, but the 'noble' clans all signed his imprisonment. So does he still want to be a Hokage?
Through his hard life, he had to learn to grow up faster than his peers and adapt to his situation. While a little mature for his age, he was nevertheless still a child with only the Hokage looking out for him. It was for this reason that he had hope, a time that he believe could change people's view on with simply determine and persistence alone. Like every child his age then, he wanted to be a hero, he wanted to be the good guy.
Sadly, reality perceives hero differently, they were given that title for their sacrifice. Again, this brought our young hero back to the very same question, is he willing to 'sacrifice' for these people? These short-sighted people? He learned this term from fellow inmates, as they explain to him how disgusting these people were and Konoha is full of them.
Becoming ninja means protecting the village, and by extension people like them. Does he seriously still want to become a ninja, let alone the Hokage? The answer he found truthfully is 'no'.
It's the only conclusion he came to and yet what about his home? Our hero had to ask himself what it meant to himself.
'Is Konoha home?'
He's thinking that because they literally booted him out, or rather locked him away so he couldn't return.
To him, it was still the most beautiful place in his mind. Countless ninjas had given their lives to protect it, including the past Hokages. Konoha is a symbol of hope but can he do the same, to protect it? It had already been 4 years and that's almost half of his life away from that village. He had already decided not to become a ninja but Konoha is a different matter.
After thinking for a while, he knew he had to do something. In the end, he turns to act. Grabbing his painting equipment, but instead of heading to the nearest canvas, he left for the courtyard. His sudden appearance surprised everyone, along with his strangely focused attitude as he inspect one building to the next. Once settling on the biggest one, he starts scribbling.
Naruto had been holing himself in the art-room for nearly a week and everyone's worried. Hence, when he stormed out into the yard with his painting equipment they were surprised. All the attention were centered on him but he somehow ignored them. That's strange because their little brother is always looking for attention.
It was for this reason that the usually noisy courtyard suddenly turn silent. With his new silent, one track and focused behavior, the others suddenly didn't know how to handle him. Later he even brought a ladder and reaching for higher parts of the wall. Some thought he's making some kind of graffiti or in some kind of rebellion streak.
Surprisingly, not even the prison guards came to stop him as he continues to vandal the wall. The warden was obviously alerted as he's watching through the huge window from his office. Of those present, only those from Konoha spoke negatively against him.
"The demon must have finally gone nuts."
Although he was only whispering but none of his fellow Konoha inmates laughed with him. It wasn't that they disagree but they know there will be consequences if they do. True enough, the fool was rewarded with a fist to the face. Clearly, someone didn't like their little brother insulted thus made his intention known.
None of the other Konoha inmates dared to speak out because they know they will be pull along into another full course beating. Strangely, these people are more attentive than their ninja Anbus. No matter where they are, Ryoma's men are always nearby. It's like they were waiting for them to slip and make stupid comments.
Even if they breath the wrong way, they will somehow know and made sure their messages are delivered. This time, the fool was lucky because they would usually drag him away for a beating. However, this time his aggressor is a little preoccupied by the courtyard's main attraction. They all knew he's not one to do something without reason, hence they are.
After a while, it became apparent he's not doing any graffiti or vandalism. In fact, he's marking the wall and maybe some kind of measurement? It was followed by more feverish scribbling. They know the boy doesn't do anything for no reason, so they were curious.
Slowly part of a mountain can be faintly seen along with some trees. There are also a lot of lines they can't make out or recognize. Seeing him climbing up and down the ladder, someone decides to voice up.
"Hey, help him." bark Ryoma as he's out there watching his godson.
Ryoma can see whatever he's doing is important to him, so he's willing to help him achieve it. The inmates seem to understand what needed to be done as they rush to find materials. It was obvious, since they couldn't help him in what he do, they can help him ascend the heights instead. Through his activities, it seems he will be using the entire wall and that's how high they will build the scaffolding.
As this is going on, only those from Konoha shown disgust. They learned well not to voice their distaste as there's always Ryoma's men lurking around. As the whole prison pit in their efforts, the group couldn't help but snarl at the scene claiming favoritism. They were all rewarded with a black eye each for their contribution.
While everyone's curious, it is unfortunately not a quick job as Naruto spend hours and hours on it. He was so determined to complete it he worked through the night. The warden was understanding enough as he authorized the floodlights throughout the night. He even had guards watching over him.
It turns it wasn't necessary as most of the inmates stayed to accompany him. However, as the project drag on and with the warden's insistence, many had to return back to their cells. The warden claims he didn't need that many of them as distraction and let him do as he please. They came to a compromise and leaving a few inmates to watch over him in case he needs anything.
Thankfully, even though he worked through the night, he took naps every now and then. Unfortunately, when he woke up he's back on his project and missing meals. Concerned for his health, the others left him something nearby in case he grew hungry. They were even more worried when he was so engross in his work that he didn't notice them.
However, later they breath a sigh of relieve seeing he ate them. He even left them a painted thank you message. So, aside from the occasion meals and bathroom breaks, our hero couldn't stay away from his project. The other inmates were told to not disturb him, so all they could do is wait.
Days go into weeks, follow by the month and Naruto finally emerge from behind the cover. They can tell he's ready, because he's back to his usual self. Hence, why everyone's gathering around the courtyard. It's quite a commotion because most of the inmates were curious and the month's wait was antagonizing.
When he pulls away the cover, his work finally reveals itself. The effect was instantaneous as the whole courtyard fell into stunned silence. It's probably because all their jaws were hanging loose from their mouth. Although the scaffolding are still in the way, it could not diminish the magnificence of what they are seeing.
Some may had seen a glimpse during its creation, but its complete form blew them away. It's a village, more specifically it's his home village – Konohagakure. Many may not know it, but those from Konoha instantly recognize their home.
"It's... it's Konoha." cries one prisoner as he recognize his own home.
"What did you say?!" another inmate grabbed him and picking him up roughly thinking he's insulting the boy.
"That's Konoha, the demon brat drew our village." a slip with his tongue as he answer under panic.
After releasing him, the bigger inmate socks him.
"That's for the 'demon brat' comment. Call him that again, I will break your arm."
Normally, the fool would have gotten himself another full course beating but he's very lucky this time because the bigger inmate is busy admiring what their little brother did.
Similarly, through the warden's window the people inside were equally surprised.
"Is that what I think it is?" asks the head guard.
"Yeah, while I personally never been there. The 4 heads on the mountain were a dead give away."
"Besides, the symbol of the ninja village on the village gate is obvious. It is Konohagakure!"
"I heard you said he's talented but this, this is ... WOW." it was all he could say to describe the impossible sensation.
Back on the yard, as the wind gently blew the wall painting starts to manifest itself like a living entity. Combine with the theme 'Spring Blossom' he used, his creation is like an illusion pulling everyone into a Cherry Blossom sight-seeing event. For a moment, they could feel the spring and beautiful bright blue skies it had. Just from one glance, the wall art felt more alive than their current surrounding.
However, only a small group was not please by its effects.
'This got to be a trick. It's the demon's magic.'
'How can a demon produce something like this?'
Demon are ugly, even their heart are ugly so how can it produce something such as this? The wall painting isn't just magnificent, it could be considered divine. Like a God's creation, but that's opposite to what demons are capable of.
'Were they wrong this whole time? That he wasn't a demon? No, it's got to be a trick.'
None of them wanted it to be true because deep down they couldn't accept it. Especially when they look at the 4th's head, it reminded them of something they were unwilling to think about or admit. Hence, they see denial as their only escape. They want to stay ignorant, and be vigilante in their hate for the demon.
'That creation is a mockery from the demon, taunting them and trying to brainwash them.'
While everyone is still stunned by the wall painting, one Konoha prisoner choose that moment to act. His intent was clear, as he plans to destroy that eyesore before it corrupt them. He almost succeeded but near the end he couldn't because the wall painting is too realistic. What they see and feel is like the essence of their home.
Destroying it is no different to destroying tranquility, harmony and serenity it represented. Perhaps this was the demon's intention, turning them into the very same demon that trash their village 10 years ago. Hence, why he couldn't do it. Instead he broke down in front of the painting.
This of course was witnessed by everyone in the courtyard and those in the warden's office through his window.
"Incredible." he's now even more convinced that Naruto's creation is more than just simple art.
It defeat even those die-hard Konoha cultists.
"..." the head guard was speechless as he had never seen anything like it.
They had seen what those Konoha nut-job could do and the extremes they go, but this was unprecedented. They were willing to immorally harm a child but not a life-less painting? OK, life-less is still debatable because the wall art is somehow more alive than the rest of the prison. That's when the head-guard noticed something on the warden's face.
"Warden-san? Are those tears?"
"Wha.. no, something must had got into my eye."
Feeling a little embarrassed, the warden decides to change the subject.
"Anyway, you better go down there."
"Right. I will be on my way."
Yes, the warden is right. He needs to get back to work before Ryoma's men kills any of the prisoners.
With Warden Dojima, aside from its obvious beauty he also felt a sense of sadness from the painting. Not that the painting is alive but in the way how it's painted. The feeling is like a message, farewell or goodbye. Is that Naruto's message? If so, whom is he saying goodbye to? Kirito? Konoha? Naruto's work continues to be a mystery, it only made him admire it more.
Down below, due to one Konoha inmate's surprising behavior the rest were seized.
"Hey, we aren't doing anything."
"No, no, no. Stay away from me."
"We swear, we won't be going anywhere near it."
As this was going on, they quickly realize their blond little brother is not among them. This made them more angry and accusation were thrown.
"Did you motherf****** do something to the boy?"
The poor Konoha inmate was manhand roughly and they are now very scared.
"No, no.. please. We didn't do anything."
"We swear, it's not us. We didn't plan anything."
Sadly, no-one believed them. Especially after what happen earlier on and the unpleasant memory many years ago.
"If anyone of you had anything to do with this, there won't be any Konoha scum here after today."
It just became personal as what the inmate said doesn't seem like he's joking. The idiots were haul away like worthless baggage. This time and for once they sincerely hope nothing happened to the kid because their life will be depending on it.
When the prison guards finally appear, it didn't get better for them.
"What's going on?!"
"The kid's missing!"
A lot of hateful glares were sent to the helpless group's way.
"They say they didn't do anything." says the tough and biggest inmate in charge, not to defend them but to hurry it along.
"You believe them?!" questions the guard.
"They better, because we will be cleaning house if they did." the inmate said menacely.
It's a horrifying moment for the Konoha lot as none of the guards seem to care for their well being.
"Spread out. We take South and West, you guys North and East." barked the lead guard.
Quickly they divide among themselves looking for the youngest member of their family. With both manpower and efficiency, it didn't take long to find him. They found him sleeping soundly in his own cell, completely obvious to the chaos he had unknowingly caused.
Despite the big scare, none of them could be mad at him in the end. Seeing his peaceful look in his sleep, they can tell he must had unburden the burden he had. Breathing a sigh of relieve, they slowly disperse themselves.
Only the Konoha lot are getting mix feelings through this ordeal. It was scary because the muscular inmate seem disappointed he couldn't rip them to shreds. The worst part is even if they protest, no-one would listen. It's barbaric and they were almost put through the death door because of that demon.
However, one thing they learned, these people mean serious business. The hint had always been there, only in their feeble minds think that nobody would go that far. Obviously they were wrong, and these people are very dangerous. This encounter made them think twice what their feeble life is worth. Apparently, based on the guard's reaction it wasn't much and that's incentive enough to watch for their own health interests.
As for our little hero, he's obvious to the events around him. From the disappearance of his sensei to completing his 'Konohagakure', he deserved his rest. Free from his burden, when he wake up it will be a fresh start to a new life. He was not wrong, because thanks to that event he will be receiving many visitors in near future. Even those not into art would be curious after seeing 'Konohagakure'.
Similarly, the warden did not know about Naruto's disappearance until much later. He's busy making calls and necessary arrangement for the prison's renovation. After seeing what Naruto had done, he knew he couldn't leave the art out there in the open. Hence, he's calling in favors and contractors for potential remodeling.
While this is going on, he had to think about how to hide the art from those people. He also realized he still need to talk to Naruto. He may love his art but he can't exactly call for renovation every-time he make another wonder. At the same time, he's also conflicted because he wants to see more of his creation.
In the meantime, he will also need both the approval and funding from the 'Fire Lord'. Hopefully, he can come up with a reasonable and convincing excuse. As for his talk with Naruto, he will later find out he will have to wait because he's asleep. Unfortunately, he will get anther shock before that when the news of his disappearance reach him.
Later he will have time to think about the events, he will find that Naruto have a knack of putting himself in center of attention. Being a Jinchurike, he's obviously is every ninja village's interest. However, now even as a civilian he's a natural in attracting people to him. Dojima will wonder if this is some kind of bloodline.
Then again, as an artist he's already extraordinary. He would rise easily among the wealthy community and capturing their attention. So as either a ninja or civilian, he will not escape attention. Hence, it's only be a matter of time.
This is especially troublesome with the ignorant Konoha group because once they are released and return back to their village. Dojima expect another political storm. He wasn't worried about them reporting about their inhumane treatment because a lot of prisoners were delusional to think they had rights. However, it's them reporting Naruto's extraordinary gift that Dojima is worried about.
Those fools may not understand how special his paintings are, but once news spreads, trouble will no doubt follow. Sadly, the worst case scenario would be enslavement. In the world of ninjas, secrets aren't really secrets because its just something to be discovered. However, in the meantime, he will do all he can to protect him for as long as possible.
So over in the next days, odd activities was seen from the yard.
"Hey, what are they doing? Why are they covering boya's work?"
"I heard that the warden's planing to preserve it. Something about keeping it from the weather."
"There are also some rumors about remodelling as well."
"Really? I can see why. The warden's pulling out all the guns, eh?"
"Yeah, aside from Ryoma-sama, it's good thing that the warden is watching out for our boya."
"Well, that's partially true. I heard that it's also a bit personal, everybody knows that Warden Doijama had a thing for art."
"Can't blame him, the more I look at that the more proud I am of the boy. He came a long way."
"You me both, Kirito did a great job. I couldn't believe it when I saw it. You could almost touch the village itself."
"Yeah, you said it. Why don't we go and say hi to the kid. Maybe we can also check out what else he has."
"Good idea, the kid could use some company since Kirito left. Personally, I think we should visit more often."
Apparently, they weren't the only inmate there as Naruto had many visitors. The art-room is now more cleaned up and it has a mini-gallery. Over the years, Kirito had been putting up their best work and competiting against one another for placement.
In just about a year ago, Naruto's pieces had been dominating the recent spaces. Although, Kirito's work are good but it's Naruto's painting in terms of creativity that stood out. His teacher often praise him for his execution and innovation. He encourage him to continue in his out of the box thinking as his mind is the most powerful tool.
As others came to check out his collection, one inmate seem to recognize something.
"Hey, Naru-boy. Isn't that...?"
"Oh, Hosuke-san I am glad you recognize that. It's based on the desert home you once told me."
"I thought it would be nice idea to put it in the portrait."
"Besides, the legendary desert flower does have a nice ring to it."
Hosuke was lost for words.
"How did you do it? I mean how did you get the details just right?"
"Oh, most of it came from your story. Others from a little research."
"That was years ago, you still remember?"
"Of course, I am not that old. I would never forget what you told me and how you discovered the legendary Lotus."
"I can still remember how you said it's both a legendary and a miracle flower because lotuses don't grow on a desert."
"Legend has it that it would only bloom one time a year and only during the full moon."
"It's legendary because no-one ever saw it over the period of 500 years until you. Am I right?"
Hosuke couldn't help but respond with a nod. The painting captured the perfect moment as the lotus was illuminated by the moonlight under the clear desert night sky. In the background there's also what he think is the Suna village, you can even see the tiny lights from within. It was simply beautiful, although the ninja village could use some work but that's probably his fault because the flower was all he talked about.
It had been a symbol of hope for the desert people living in the unforgiving environment. As Hosuke look closely, he can see small dew resting on the lotus as it reflects off the moonlight. Even by looking through the painting, he can somehow feel the chill of the desert night. At first, he thought it was just his imagination or that the portrait reminding him of his home.
However, the more he look into it the more he felt his connection with the painting. Naruto had outdone himself again, even down to the details. The barren sand surrounding the flower emphasize the harsh condition of desert life during the day, no other vegetation or even life-forms. The details were impeccable and Hosuke couldn't take his eyes off it. Even by looking, he can feel the chill and unconsciously shiver with goosebumps on his arms.
"It's yours if you like it, Hosuke-san!"
"What?!"
"I said you can have it."
Despite not understanding anything about art, Hosuke recognized its value. He was once a thief by trade thus he knew such painting is one of a kind.
"Boya, I couldn't accept something like that?"
"Why not?! I got it from your story."
"Besides, I can always paint another whenever I want."
"Take it as a thank you gift for the inspiration."
Hosuke can only shake his head. The kid is just too naive and innocent for his own good. On the other hand, he doubt he can let go once he put his hands on it, the temptation is too great. Oddly enough, he felt complete with it and would be happy to pay an arm and leg for it.
It's like finding your soulmate. Like the painting was created specially for him, hence why the moment he laid his eyes on it it caught his undivided attention.
"Em. Thanks, kid."
"Don't worry about it."
It wasn't just Hosuke as many others too starts to appreciate his work. Aside from Hosuke, the warden too had received one of his paintings as gift. That happened a year ago, where Naruto wanted to show him his appreciation with a painting of his own. Knowing the warden liked art, he thought painting him a portrait would be a good idea.
The trouble is what should he put in the painting. Considering the warden's taste, it would be an insult if he just paint him a picture of the prison. Hence, Naruto had to put some thoughts into it. As per his sensei's suggestion, he should ask himself what he knew about the warden.
So recalling from his memory, he remembered what his office looked like when he first arrive. There's a lot of painting and mostly about religions. At least that's what he thinks because he seem to have a lot of painting with clouds and holiness (someone with a halo). He also remember a stuffed bird in the corner and that gave him the main inspiration.
In the end, he choose an eagle as center, making it look like it just shot out above the clouds. Combined with the majestic view of the rising sun and endless white, it was majestic. Not only is the bird looked shocked, the pre-dawn setting of the scene was perfect and relaxing.
The theme itself alone could be that the eagle is trying to challenge nature by ascending above the clouds and was generously rewarded by the sight. Like seeing the endless ocean for the first time, it's simply one breathtaking experience. There are those that might argue that the painting is insinuating someone to aim high, because the reward is worth it.
For Dojima, this was perfect as he can spend a long time debating the possibilities. On the other hand, he had also fond admiration of the bird in the painting. On certain cultures, eagles are viewed as a sign of bravery and sometimes justice. Hence, it's no wonder how the warden favors it.
Even when he was prepared, Dojima was still unprepared for what he receive. It's simply beyond his expectations. The art is exceptional as always but it is the theme that he found more appealing. It captured the perfect moment, the feeling of new discovery, new heights, challenge and the breathtaking reward.
So over the weeks Naruto got busy fulfilling requests after request from his many brothers. Ryoma tries to stop it but the blond artist was insistent so Ryoma had to back down. Naruto is just happy that they like his painting. Both Dojima and Ryoma had to sigh because they knew what those paintings are worth if they ever get released into the public, yet the boy just gives them away like nothing.
On the other hand, those inmates too were ignorant. They were only thinking of pretty pictures. So unless you are somehow linked to the art community, most of them doesn't realize what they are getting. Knowing how naive Naruto is, none of them can convince him otherwise.
Thankfully, like Hosuke his brothers never took advantage of him. As they all too think of him as their little brother. In return, Naruto became more driven to fulfil their wish and go beyond their expectations. In the end, everyone's happy.
Dojima can only sigh, he didn't think these people don't deserve them. It's just like watch some kid passing out diamonds like they were just pebbles you find in the garden. He would rather these people understand more what was given to them. Explaining was pointless since none of them understand anything about art.
Anyway, at least the guys weren't asking for some tough or impossible assignments. They were usually scenery and places, like the waterfall or a quiet lake house or something. Thanks to Kirito, Naruto learned what they are along with a small library of references. He used to call them picture books but were actually famous arts from various artists.
Hence, most of those requests were fairly easy and Naruto is equally happy he can pay everyone back for their care. Unfortunately, not everyone love art. His godfather is one fine example, and Naruto felt himself indebted to him. Like a lovable child wanted to please his/her parents, Naruto too wanted to show him his appreciation.
So until he does, he has other jobs to fulfill and excitingly a long list of orders to complete. Seeing this, Dojima can only shook his head lightly, claiming it 'being young'. Then again, he's equally guilty in offering him unlimited supplies of equipment and resource. As result, in just a few months the prison is filled with his painting everywhere.
They can be found in prisoner's private cells and some public areas. Of course, those public areas are oversee by guards in case the Konoha group are still holding grudges. Through the looks in their eyes, it's clear they hadn't let go of that hate. Then again, they couldn't do anything about it.
Aside from the guards watching and protecting it. They knew if there's as most as a scratch on them they will be the first to be blame and interrogated. Beside those points, the Konoha group chose to avoid them. Their reason was to keep themselves 'pure' and not corrupted by the demon's influence.
So over the months, everything went smoothly as expected and Naruto's work being kept within confines of the Fire Prison. However, things will change when inmates gets released and this was what the warden worried about. Hosuke is such lucky prisoner as he came by to say goodbye to the young artist.
"Eh? Sure Hosuke-san. When I say I am giving it to you. I meant it. So you can do whatever you want with it."
From Naruto's point of view, he couldn't understand why Hosuke-san want his permission. He assumed it was just an excuse to say his goodbye, so the blond artist reassure him he can do whatever he want with it. So in the end, Hosuke thanked him again before taking his leave.
On his way, he was stopped by the warden. Thankfully, Dojima wasn't there to take back the painting but to warn him.
"Hosuke, rest assure I am not here to take back your possession."
"Since Naruto was generous enough to give it to you as gift, it's your right to do what you want with it."
"However, there's one advise I want to share with you before you are officially discharged - do not show that to anyone."
"As an art lover myself I can tell you just how valuable that is."
The warden had to pause to rethink what he said.
"I am sorry, I think the word 'valuable' wouldn't do it justice. I hope you understand what I mean."
"Warden-sama, as I thank you for all those years taking care of me, I thank you also for your advise."
"You are right, and I had absolutely no intention of showing anyone what Naruto made for me."
"Honestly, with his work you don't need to be an expert to understand it's value."
"I can assure you that even with a mountain of gold or a thousand life-time of riches would I ever sell it."
"It's something I know I will take to the grave!"
Hosuke said it adamantly and the warden believed him.
The man may not be a role model but he seldomly say things he doesn't mean.
"Just promise me one thing, take good care of that kid. He's special you know."
"You don't have to ask, I already knew."
"Beside being innocent to his crime, his placement's never to rot in the prison."
"Mark my words, it's only a matter of time and he will be out in the world again."
Nodding his head in agreement, Hosuke left the prison to spend the rest of his life back in his home village.
He's not young anymore but he's very contented in what he had, especially with the painting Naruto gifted to him. It was the 'Desert Lotus' he discovered, he felt he could find peace just from staring at it. While it's undoubtedly slightly different, but he liked the boya's version. It was portrait just right and perfection that it was memorial, thus giving him a deeper connection to the real thing.
Most of his paintings have that effect on you hence why they are considered as masterpieces (according to the warden). Even after returning home, not once did he shown his friend nor family that painting. It was only till his death was it became known when friends and family accidentally discover his basement. They never knew he had such secret and even more surprised when they found one sole painting.
It was odd because there are nothing there, only one couch with a direct view of the painting. Of course, at the time of discovery they didn't know it was priceless. While they can understand its beauty, they had no idea why he would keep it in such a place and away from his family. Since it had no significant meaning to them, they decided to put on auction.
However, little did they know it would trigger an international incident. As being said, the painting was put on auction. The family didn't expect much coming from an unknown painting, an unknown author or where it came from. Even the experts were puzzled because they didn't recognize its signature nor the artist.
Nevertheless, they can understand that it is an exceptional painting. So they predicted that it may fetch them a few hundred or if they are lucky a thousand Ryo. They had such low expectations because the painting is an unknown, came from an unknown source. Although it was expertly made, without full authentication its difficult to judge its value. In another word, this painting is a wild card. So depending on whom is in the auction house, it could go as high as the richest participant.
When the auction got started, to their surprise the place was filled with no less than 10 Daimyos. As it happens, the 'Desert Lotus' is the first item on the list. Since it is an unknown it went on first, leaving the main attraction to the end. The bid started at 500, but it soon became abundantly clear that there's a lot of interested parties.
Never had the organizers seen an auction like this as the crowds all bidding for the same item and this is only just the beginning. It was true that the painting is extraordinary but with an unknown background they were surprise these people are fighting for it. This was especially true for the rich lords from Wind Country, and the Wind Daimyo was no exception. Once he heard that there's a painting with the Legendary Lotus as theme, he knew he must have it.
This is also true for the other lords as the Lotus was only a rumor and last seen 500 years ago. On top of that, the setting of the painting captured the legendary status fabulously. Apparently, the professional appraisers were not local hence they didn't know about the aged old legend. Otherwise they may rethink the painting's value.
Another thing about the painting is that it was set in the desert night, thus only the desert dwellers can understand. Hence, one glance from these people the painting immediately caught their eyes. Combine with all the little details in the painting, they knew it's one treasure they couldn't simply ignore. Especially the Daimyos as they knew an item's worth better than even the experts.
By the end of the hour, the unbelievable painting fetched over a million Ryo and it still shown no sign of stopping. It was like a show down of Daimyo because only they had the riches to continue the bid. They were all determined to have the main attraction for themselves. Little do they know, this is the show's main attraction but from the ferocity of the bid you will be forgiven for the mistake.
There are 17 Daimyos in place and by then the seats near them were empty. It's like an invisible tug of war between them and the glare they sent to one another is starting to affect the nearby bidders. The scene was so bad it's also affecting the organizers.
"GO ON, ORGANIZER. WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR. I WILL BE TAKING THIS PIECE HOME AFTER TONIGHT."
"LIKE HELL YOU ARE, I WILL BE BIDDING SUNAGAKURE THE LAST THING I DO. THINK YOU CAN TOP THAT?"
"THE NINJA VILLAGE IS NOTHING, I HAVE AT LEAST 50 BILLION WORTH OF DIAMONDS TO THE WEST."
However, another Daimyo decides to add himself to the small talk while rising his fan adding another 10,000 Ryo to the bid.
"THAT'S CUTE, 50 BILLION IS SMALL CHANGE COMPARES TO TRADING. MY COMPANY CAN MAKE AT LEAST 500 BILLION IN A MONTH."
"YOU F**** SHOULD KNOW WITH A NINJA VILLAGE, I CAN HIRE NINJAS TO TAKE BACK WHAT'S RIGHTFULLY MINE."
"YOU THINK YOU ARE HOT S***, THERE ARE OTHER NINJA VILLAGES OUT THERE. EVEN MINOR VILLAGE CAN GET THE JOB DONE."
As the bid continues, the conversation starts to get dangerous.
No one knows if the Wind Daimyo was joking or not but it quickly attracted the Kazekage's attraction. It's a kage's nightmare when there are 17 Daimyos you don't want to piss off and had to somehow pacify them.
"STOP! THIS AUCTION IS CLOSED."
"GENTLEMEN, PLEASE ALLOW ME TO RESOLVE THIS."
"Raimos, the village is willing to pay you 50,000 Ryo for your painting and handle the responibility. Is that acceptable and to your family's satisifaction?"
The Raimos quickly nodded their heads, they were just glad they didn't have to deal with the Daimyos directly. These are very powerful people, they knew it was out of their hands when the Daimyos were involved. They had personally witnessed the auction, instead of joy with the bid they had cold sweat.
Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on who you are. The Daimyos are now targeting their irk on the Suna village leader. Raza knew he had to act fast. He is perhaps more powerful then all of them put together, but it wouldn't do his reputation any good to threaten these people.
Especially the Wind Daimyo, since they had a rather bad meeting earlier.
"Careful at what you say Raza, your next words could mean the end of your village."
It wasn't just the Wind Daimyo as the others too can easily bankrupt Suna because they are all the village biggest clients.
"DAIMYO-SAMAS, please think. Even if you do win the auction, I doubt you will be able to keep it away from one another."
"As you all said so yourself, you could hire ninjas and steal it from one another."
"So instead of inflicting casualties upon each other, why not leave the painting with me."
"Sunagakure can act as neutral ground while safe guarding it. What do you say, Daimyo-samas?"
Although they don't like it, the Kazekage does have merit. They all knew it's true, even after out bidding the other none of them can seriously keep it from each other for long. Hence, it's more practical to leave it in a ninja village. So it didn't take them long to see reason and eventually back down.
However, even though Raza convinced them otherwise, he doubt they would give up this easily. So once he returns to his office, he immediately calls for an emergency meeting and advise from both the elders and ninja commanders, they will need a plan. A plan to both protect the painting and at the same time impress their benefactors. The meeting went on for hours and hours, one thing they all agreed on is that these so-called lords won't give up easily.
Hence, they knew they have to beef up the village security. Knowing there will be intruders and their target being the painting, they knew what their objectives are. Meanwhile the very object that caused all that ruckus is surrounded by elite Anbus guards. They were briefed of its importance thus none of them dared to slack off.
In order to ensure the right care were taken for the painting, the 2 professional appraisers were detained. Detained is perhaps a strong word to describe their situation. However, the Kazekage did insist them staying while offering to hire them until another is available. Paintings are delicate as they can be easily damaged by weather, bad care and maintenance.
Hence why the Kazekage demand their stay because he's not taking any chances. Luckily it wasn't too difficult to persuade them because they too were rather curious by the painting. All they asked in return was to have access to their library and information on this 'Desert Lotus'. They still couldn't understand how the auction turn out as it did, hence why they wanted to learn what is so special about it.
Both were professionals and experts in their field, hence it's no surprise how an unknown artist and painting elude them. Their predictions were way off, although sometimes experts can be wrong but never to such a scale. Even now they still had no idea where the painting came from. The people brought it to them because they found it in their dead relative's home. Base on their evaluation, the paint isn't that old. Possibly no more than a year, so they assumed it is some new or novice painter.
They too noticed the painter's signature 'UZU' at the bottom. At first, they didn't think it's his signature because it wasn't written in a conventional way. It was written with 2 letter 'U's and a 'Z' cross-striking over the 2 'U's. Since none of them recognize an artist doing that, they assume he/she must be relatively new.
It wasn't just the appraisers, even the village elders are curious in this so-called 'painting' that almost took them into war. When they did get to see, they found some familiarity but not know what? They thought in their age, they would have seen everything but this painting is definitely no ordinary painting. Elder Chiyo suggests to the Kazekage to trace its origin but at the time Raza didn't think it would be important. Little did he knew, the old woman could be right but that's another chapter.
Another thing Raza missed is that since the painting surfaced it's been center of his village's attention. He thought it would die down over time but even he couldn't anticipate the chaos it would bring. Unfortunately, for better or for worst, only time will tell. For now, all he could do is to focus on one problem at a time. There will be impending chaos, but the question is whom will be the first.