Suna Evolution
It had been months since the painting was in the ninja village's hands. The painting was both a god send and perhaps consider a curse depending on whom you ask. Even today, they still can't decide which is which. However, in general they are leaning more towards the positive end.
Why? Because before the painting surfaced, the Wind Daimyo had cut the ninja village's funding. Since then it's been an uphill battle to get in the Wind Country leader's favor. What pisses the Kazekage off is that their Daimyo is senting missions to their rival village. It's a huge slap to his face and an insult to their village.
Unfortunately, there's very little he can do about it. Turning to their ally (Konoha) for help would only show them how weak Suna is and how incompetent he is. Just when things about to get out of hand, the mysterious painting appear and changed all that. However, while the painting is a blessing in disguise it brought equally a number of problems.
One of such problem is the fight among the Daimyos as none of them were willing to back down. Sadly, Suna and Rasa (Kazekage) is in the middle of it. Then again that's mostly his fault but at the time, he had no choice but inserting himself into the arguement because these powerful and wealthy leaders were about to start a civil war among themselves. Normally, Rasa could stand aside and let them kill each other but since they are all Suna's biggest clients, losing one would drastically lower the village's income.
So after some talking and much convincing, the Daimyos were surprisingly cooperative. At least that was what it seem on the surface but Rasa knew these people, thus knew they aren't likely give up this easily. Hence, he was prepared, Suna was prepared. At least they were prepared for one of two teams of ninjas. However, what they didn't expect is for all of them to come on the same night.
It was unprecedented and no-one could had anticipated such event. Hence why it wasn't just Suna that's taken off guard, even the 17 teams were equally shocked that there were this many oppositions. Thankfully, the Suna ninjas didn't join in the mess. They choose to be on the watch as they signal for more backup. It was an intelligent thing to do since none of the teams were near their objective.
Unfortunately, the obvious invading ninjas all thought they were somehow exposed thus trying salvage the mission by taking each other out silently as possible. Apparently, the other teams were doing the same thing hence how the fighting were in total silence. This was all watched by Suna ninjas as they wait for the signal to apprehend them. As being said, it wasn't just the ninjas below that's confused, even the Suna shinobis watching from hiding places too were wondering what's going on.
It was dead middle of the night with poor visibility, hence its no surprise how they had no idea who their opponents are. Since they are on Suna grounds, therefore it's not unusual to fight Suna ninjas. None of them could afford to cause an international incident hence they all ended up trying to disable one another. Sadly, the opposition too mistaken it was Suna's intention to disable them for interrogation.
So one after another, the teams fought on never knowing why there are so many ninjas in their path. 17 teams, considering the standard 4 man per squad that's roughly 68 ninjas fighting among themselves. It's no wonder why the Suna ninjas are confused. By their count, they think there may be more than 5 sides, let alone 17. Thankfully, their commander didn't order the assault now because that would make the situation more chaotic.
Those ninjas down there didn't even have time to question one another, it was take down the opposition or get taken down. All they could do is fight because fleeing isn't an option as the opposition will think you are trying to alert Suna's forces. They were desperate, hence why the fight is so dangerous. It's an vicious fight where they try to knock one another out without causing too much injury, hence every blow is a knockout blow. The Suna ninjas thought they had identified 5 different parties but then they start to turn on one another.
Everyone's busy fighting something that none realize they were fighting there are multiple sides. As explained, it's in the middle of the night and visibility were poor. Therefore all they can rely on is their hearing. Combined with adrenaline rush, its a free for all brawl that's borderline lethal. The injured tried to leave only to be taken down by another ninja and the fight drag on.
Once the scene reached to a manageable, that's when the Suna Commander signal to apprehend them. It wasn't difficult as there's only three left standing and they were too exhausted. They knew its over when they see that many Suna Anbus arrive to surround them. They still think someone must had alerted the main force. That night, Suna's prison was overcrowded.
Even interrogation was a little out of hand, that's mainly because it's not just the interrogators that's confuse. They were stubborn at first, when they do talk they insist the interrogator asking their ninja. According to them, somehow Suna already knew their plan before it even got started. Unfortunately, it's simply too much of a coincidence that the head interrogator couldn't help but think this is some sort secret collaboration plan by multiple village. Based on their headbands as proof, they counted 17 minor villages taking part in the invasion.
"Do you have any affinity with Hidden Dune Village? What about Hidden Cactus Village?"
"How about Hidden Oasis? Hidden Retreat?"
The interrogator adding each village name hoping to get a reaction from him.
"Why are you asking me about all those villages, how many times do I have to tell you I am from Hidden Mirage."
Similar responses came from other units but from a different village or affinity group (some are mercenaries). Unfortunately, the chief interrogator had to be through. It's odd that separate teams decides to partake on a mission that happened to be on the same night. When asked what this mission, the ninjas all chose to stop talking.
That when the Kazekage arrive, having heard what was gathered through interrogation he already knew what had happened. The whole event was so laughable that he didn't know how to prosecute them. It's not like they had damaged anything because the moment they arrive they fought among themselves before getting captured.
Before they can continue, the Kazekage had all of them brought together. That's when things starts to make sense when 17 teams sees one another.
"YOU?!"
Apparently, some members seems to recognize one another. Somewhen during the heat of the fight last night, they remembered the faces of their opponents.
It was another chaos waiting to happen until the Suna Commander set them straight.
"HEY! Before you start fighting, you better take a good look at each other's headbands."
That got all their attention.
"You are not Suna?"
They were almost all asking the same question.
"You were after 'The Night Lotus' too?!"
'Night Lotus', 'Desert Lotus' were the common name they call it now. Since no-one knew its official name, those became the popular ones thus commonly known. At least that's how they will be called until its creator is found.
Having heard their slip of tongue, the Kazekage had all the evidence to point out whom the true culprits are. It's another political nightmare for the Kage as he had to organize another sit-down with the bickering lords. They are maybe Suna's biggest clients but they are compromising his village.
So over the next days, the Daimyos once again gathered in one room. Despite Rasa can't order them, but for the sake of the 'Night Lotus' they agreed to attend. It's one delicate situation the village leader had to carefully trek.
"Watch it Raza, your village is paid through my funding. Don't lecture me on what I can and can not do."
"I am aware of that Daimyo-sama. However, aside from Sunagakure, I am actally doing this for everybody's benefit here."
"You are just saying that because without our money your village would be doomed." added another Daimyo.
"I will not deny that, my lords. I may have said it before and I will say it again."
"Regardless whom gets the painting in the end, the other wouldn't be happy. So that wouldn't solve anything."
"Rasa-dono, please get to the point."
Other lords couldn't help but unconsciously agree because they want to heard what idea this man has. They are all rich and powerful, but they too can understand there's something that money can't buy and this painting is one.
"Look, Daimyo-samas. With all due respect, why don't you consider finding the painter himself?"
"Ninjas are excellent trackers, I am sure that we can locate him for you."
Unfortunately, that's one mistake he will soon regret. However, it nevertheless did the trick as all the Daimyos nearly jumped him, each wanted to be the first to get the mission underway.
"Just one of you is enough." he tries again to calm them down.
"Rasa-dono, just send more teams. That way we might find him faster."
"Alright, as you wish. However, before we do that, I want to make sure the last incident never happens again."
He's obviously refering to the ninjas in his village incident.
"Yeah, yeah. Anything, just hurry it up." one Daimyo just want to hurry it along.
"Look, gentlemen. The way I see it, in order for this to never happen again is to have all of you to enforce it."
This caught their interest because they knew what the Kazekage is doing. He's obviously demanding money but they knew he won't be asking it directly because he knew they will say no.
So the question is, how will he justify it.
"Interesting. So, what do you propose? Kazekage-dono."
They want to see what he will say to convince them otherwise.
"I suggest you all pit in for the painting's protection?"
"You mean to pay you or your village for it's protection?" one enquires disappointedly.
"No, what I mean is for each one of you to contract a security fire for the painting's protection."
"?!" His proposal stunned them because it's never been done before.
"Instead of hiring ninjas to steal it, I want you all to find some way to prevent each other from stealing it."
"I am sure as Lords and Daimyos, this task should be easy and that you all already have something in mind."
The Kazekage was not wrong, just by looking at their calculating expressions he knew they have already an ideal firm in mind. They are all wealthy individuals, hence there's little doubt in them commissioning their own special safe and security.
Then again, what Rasa propose is for each of them to partake in the painting's defense. Instead of letting them hiring more ninjas to try to steal the painting, he have them add additional security measures so the other can't steal it. It's ingenius, in one sentence he managed to flip the table. Instead of just Suna taking on potential 17 oppositions, the Kazekage made sure all 17 of them are on his side. Even if one Daimyo chose to stray, the Daimyo or ninjas he hired still have the other 16 to deal against.
Just by looking at their calculating expressions, the Kazekage knew they liked the idea. As they thought about what the Kazekage is proposing, they knew it's something never been done before.
'17 firms on one security project, that's interesting.' they were all clearly thinking of the same thought, they themselves too were interested in the outcome. Aside from preventing their rival from getting the painting, it prevent other future thieve from other nations too. Considering what the painting is worth, they think its a worthy investment.
"Rasa, before we start drafting this contract, can you tell me what you know of the original painter?" enquires the Wind Daimyo.
"Certainly, Daimyo-sama. Since Suna got hold of the painting, our experts had been investigating and analysing it.
"Preliminary report suggests that the painting isn't that old. Two years, give or take a few months."
That tidbit is enough to convince them what it meant, and that this mysterious painter is most likely still alive. Therefore, potentially more of his/her work is yet to be discovered.
"Very well, we will take care of the security issues. Just send out your scouts, we want the painter found."
Sadly, little did Rasa knew at the time this would be a long search. However, in the meantime he's successful in pacifying the wealthy lords and got them on a compromise.
In months, the new museum was complete and Rasa couldn't be more proud. It's the most state of the art security system from 17 security firms. The painting is safely secured in an unbreakable glass that's held by titanium casing. It's also built to be airtight and filled with vacuum, which in turn helps to preserve the painting.
The titanium casing is also where all the sensors are. Additionally, it also has the function to monitor the painting's condition such as air temperature and position. It was molded into the glass, thus can not be taken off easily. Combined with seals crafted into the glass, ninjutsu would not work against it. Additional sensors are also in place to both set off alarms and alert the village forces should the painting be touched or moved any way.
The allocation of the room is also an important factor because it is in the basement. Hence, even if the museum is somehow destroyed, the painting would still be protected. Most importantly, it will not expose itself to the harsh desert environment.
The room was also heavily enforced with protection seals by the village seal masters to limit Chakra usage. It's a defensive measure against ninjas, mostly against deadly Jutsu usage or bloodlines. Their seals may not be on par against Bijus but they are adequate enough for security. For that reason, Rasa had several Taijutsu adepts and weapons users guarding the room.
So far, both the painting's well being and security were well considered and the Daimyos were impressed. Especially with it secured inside the glass display the public can experience both its magnificence and glory without potentially damaging the priceless art. If that's not enough, what they had seen is just the beginning because there are other security measures in place. This is one of the most ambitious security project to date, hence what's to come is obviously more than just satefy measures and painting preservation. One notable feature is the shuffling security system.
It's a concept by one of the 17 firms and also use as the core architecture design for the museum. Purposely built like a maze, thus making navigating into the museum a hassle and troublesome for thieves. However, the maze wasn't its selling point, as it's called a shuffling system for a reason. Thanks to the automation technology supplied by the company, with one push of a button the rooms will change and realign itself to form another maze.
(Think of the first 'Aliens vs Predator' movie, funny that its also a pyramid but this one will be more public friendly.)
In fact Rasa like it so much that he wants the system activated every mid-night. It's great for visitors because the layout will be different everyday thus making the experience refreshing. For that reason, the museum became Suna's number one popular attraction. Only the shinobis have mixed feelings because they will have to familiarize themselves every morning just to do their job. They are not only there for security but also to sometimes act as guide for lost visitors.
While the maze is perhaps the most renovation system in place but it doesn't stop the thief or ninja from stealing from the museum. Because the most it can do is to delay and confuse them. However, as being said that was just one system. Combine with other systems, the museum is literally a huge trap house. Thanks to each of these companies, additional safety measure is taken to ensure they are not lethal or accidentally triggered.
Along with the shuffle system in place, the traps too will be re-positioned or interchanged. It's an ingenius design and the blueprint is safely stored in the Kazekage's vault. Although the architecture is a work of art but it's nothing compare to the museum's star attraction - The Night Lotus. Thanks to the extra funding by the Daimyos, Rasa had Suna's best decorators setting up the stand for the main stage.
While the painting itself is already out shine everything anybody had seen, however combined with right support it went up an another level that even the Daimyos couldn't anticipate. Thanks to the dim lite atmosphere surrounding the painting and the ambient light on the Lotus, it made it stand out more. It was truly divine and made you want to appreciate nature differently.
Despite the desert theme, the silence and stillness of the night through the paint is entrancing. There are even rare plants in place to give people false flowery scent through the painting. It was because of all this that Rasa was praised for his effort and restore the Daimyo's confidence in the village.
These rich individuals aren't interested in ninja affairs. Their support is only true if the ninja villages indirectly benefits them. Like many wealthy individuals, they aren't likely invest their money in something that isn't worthy. With Suna doing poorer and poorer in the Daimyo's eyes, they felt their money are better spent elsewhere.
Hence, when Suna managed to do what these Daimyos hadn't thought of, their view changed. Instead of seeing a simple poor village, they found something worthy in value. While it's not exactly what Rasa wants, it had its desire effects.
(He was hoping the Daimyo would see them as a great military asset but as mentioned they didn't care about that. What they concern about are economy and growth. After-all money don't grow on trees and Suna is their money pit.)
However, thanks to the latest event, they don't see them as just a ninja village. On the other hand, if the Daimyo are impressed, there's a very high chance that the museum will be a success to the public. True to their expectations, the building is a major success. Within a week, its news attracted numbers of foreign people and other Daimyos to Suna. In months, there's no place on the elemental nation not knowing about Suna's big evolution.
There are even many people moving into Suna. Collectors, billionaires or simple art lovers. One reason or another they came into the ninja village bring along new opportunities. Thanks to the impressive display in security, some collectors even offer to loan their own private collection to the museum.
While the painting is a god send, it also generate negative attention and disorder within Suna. Some zealous group claimed that the painting is cursed just because its natural effect. They believe its the devil's work and trying to steal people's soul. Thankfully, the painting was well protected so those idiots can't do anything.
These people were somehow right because the 'Desert Lotus' does have the power to tuck people's heart strings. It's no rumor or exaggeration by the media because the painting sometimes known as 'Night Lotus' can cause people to feel at ease by looking at it. The painting perfectly capture the moment the legendary lotus was blooming. Combined with the magnificent view of the chilly desert at night, the visitors were amazed because none of them had seen anything like that.
Even the locals were compelled to remember what desert night life was like. Due to that reason, hotel business in Suna were on the rise as visitors came to see what desert night life has to offer. That's something the Kazekage couldn't anticipate as his village continues to thrive out of his control.
At first it was just to accommodate the visitors, thus new hotels were built. As demand increases, more food stands, restaurants and shops follow. Although, those changes were expected. However, Suna nightlife was new.
He should had known, with the 'Night Lotus' as center of his village's attraction people would be curious. Not just about the legendary flower but the desert night. While it's dangerous in the desert, within the village walls it's safe. Hence, it should come as no surprise people want some activities through the night.
Since then, Suna has been transformed. Instead of simple and old quiet nights, there are now lights, activities and entertainment all the way through the night. The village is like a never ending festival and the Suna council all had mixed feelings. Some says the changes were better because it helps the village thrive, whereas the other complain its out of control and want to go back to the old ways.
With new ways of life means new lines of problems. Security had to be increased as his shinobis work tirelessly through the nights to keep order. Suna even have a small district that only open during night hours. During the day that site is like a ghost town.
For Rasa, his village is changing to much and too fast for his taste. Sometimes, he wondered if it was for the better or is it for worst? He's still debating today as his council continues to bring up new lines of problems. Again, Rasa is asking the same question 'are we better?' as he tries to tune them out.
Gaara
It wasn't just Daimyos that was affected by the painting sensation. Even the local Jinchuriki of Suna somehow found himself entranced by it. Being alone all the time and with most of his family members avoiding him, Gaara turns to the latest gossip surrounding this miracle painting. At the time, the 'Desert Lotus' or the 'Night Lotus' weren't very well known then.
Garra only heard it because the shinobis guarding it. There are also people gossipping on the streets but never did go to the old museum. With nothing better to do, the sleep deprived child went to see what made it special to have Daimyos fighting over it. Since this is Gaara, no-one dared to stop him but they did inform his father.
By then Gaara had already arrived to his destination. Although the room had at least 4 Anbus guarding it, none want to act unless they can sense ill intent from the Jinchuriki. It's safer both them and the painting and they were glad he didn't try anything suspicious. In fact, they were more surprised to find him much calmer than usual.
That's when Rasa came into the picture as the head Anbu greet and report to him. Gaara's stance never changed because he's extra cautious when it comes to his father. After hearing the full report, he was shocked because his son being 'calm' is unheard of. It made him wonder if there's more to it than a simple painting.
Having observed his son for an hour and seeing he's not a threat to the priceless painting, Rasa decides to leave. He will need to have elder Chiyo check that painting again just in case. He didn't want any unknown seals controlling the village's weapon. Better safe than sorry.
On the other hand, Gaara was at first just curious. He didn't expect to hang around long until he saw the lonely portrait.
'Lonely?! Why do I think that?'
He doesn't understand why but that in turn made him thought about himself.
'I think I am lonely too...'
'I guess we are the same.' again he had no idea why.
Everything was being processed in his mind, hence no-one can hear his thoughts are he unconsciously express himself.
Perhaps he's just talking to himself, or that the painting is just a reminder of his situation. Nevertheless, he found himself actually sympathizing it.
'Are you doing this? Did you make me feel this way?'
Obviously, he didn't get a response. However, from the way he sees it, he thought its the painting trying to communicate with him.
Not knowing what to do, Gaara ended up staring at the painting. That's how he's slowly drawn in by it. The loneliness feeling is still there and he's still had no idea how and why's getting them.
'Am I just imagining it? That feeling, I think its coming from the drawing.'
'Why do I even think its lonely, its just a painting?'
After sometime, he's decided on something.
'OK, how about I stay here?' again he communicate with his mind.
He had no idea why but he felt it's how he can talk with it. However, if he's expecting some kind of a response, he will be disappointed.
Having gotten no answer, Gaara sighs to his fate. Somewhere deep in his mind, he felt it was the right thing to do. Under normal circumstances, he would had left. What stopped him is that connection, as there's still that tug of 'loneliness' lingering in the air.
As seconds continues to tick by, followed by the minutes Gaara starts to pay more attention to the strange painting.
'Why do I get that feeling?'
He starts tracing its contours with his eyes but unknowingly he was surprisingly calm. Normally, voices in his mind would urge him to kill and destroy everything in sight. Somehow, it's surprisingly quiet.
Hence, despite the number of unknowns he didn't hate the experience. So over the next following days, Gaara found himself returning again and again. He also found himself a nice comfortable spot, a seat with a direct view to the painting and all for himself. The reason its all for himself is because no-one dared to go near him.
Over time, Gaara found himself slowly appreciating the painting. It also became quite apparent that his 'mother' is rather quiet when he's there. Finally some quiet and no-one to disturb him, he found himself true peace he lacked over the years. In this room, there's no discrimination as everyone's attention were on the painting.
Despite the small gap between him and others, he didn't feel different like when he's outside. After weeks, some people socialize with him. It may be due to the fact that they are foreigners they didn't know him by reputation that they mistakenly talked to him. However, what surprised them is what he had said.
"Marvelous, isn't it?"
Gaara didn't even know he was talking to him.
"I am surprise a young fellow such as you is here."
Although he only just realized the man is talking to him, Gaara didn't know what to say.
"You know if you look at it just right, you can feel the silence of the desert. It's just so perfect."
"I think it's lonely." Gaara said absent mindedly.
"What?!" returns the surprised visitor as he turn back to the painting.
After short while, he starts to say. "Oh my, oh my."
"You are right, young man. There's a sense of loneliness too."
"How could we've missed that."
Like a kid finding something new, he was quite excited by the discovery. Unknown to Gaara that information would be pass down to the others in the art community.
"That's some insight you got there. Tell me, are you a ninja by chance?"
Gaara only nodded silently in response.
"I like you, please let me know your name so I will know whom to turn to for future missions."
"Gaara."
Due to that one strange event, Gaara's team receive numbers of recommendations and mission requests. It's a huge surprise for Rasa as he couldn't believe the sudden surge of interest with his youngest son.
"Lord Romuri, may I ask why the sudden interest in my youngest son?"
"Oh, Gaara is your son? Excellent, we were right to chose him."
"Not only has he good instincts but also making of a great ninja."
Unfortunately, that comment only served to confuse him.
"Lord Romuri, I am afraid I do not understand. Can you elaborate? What instinct are we talking about?"
"Why, art instinct of course." leaving Rasa dumbfounded in place because he didn't know how to respond to that.
'What the F***?! Ninja quality are now dependent on art?' thought Rasa in his mind.
"Lord Romuri, forgive me for being blunt. How exactly do you measure a ninja's level with instinct?"
"Ninjas are all about survival, strength, jutsus and power of their mind."
"So how does instinct on art fit into all this?" Rasa is determined to try to understand all this and this client in front of him seems to be more forth coming hence why he's hoping to get an answer from him.
"Rasa-dono, you are too one dimensional when it comes to ninjas and shinobis."
"What you say are perhaps true but that's only in times of war. However, we aren't at war hence a different perspective is essential."
"You may not see it but Young Gaara was able to point out something even experts couldn't."
"That's talent and not something ordinary people have."
While the client may have raised some interesting points but Rasa isn't going to change the way he ran his village because of that. Even the novelty of it sounded stupid, they are ninjas how looking at art can save them? As his ninjas summons Baki and his team, Rasa just realized.
'It's again that painting!'
'At least the man wasn't trying to send their village weapon into a trap.'
Then Rasa couldn't help but thought back about the conversation.
'How stupid and naive! Ninja villages are always at war!'
Perhaps that's the one dimensional thinking Lord Romuri was talking about.
When the team finally arrive, there is another surprise as the client approach Gaara and mingle with him. This only made the ninja occupants in the room tense.
'Will he kill him? Should we warn the foolish client?'
Most importantly of all - 'Can we stop him when that happens.'.
The obvious answer is no, but they chose to watch the event unfold because they still can't believe this is the same Gaara he's talking about.
Surprisingly, Gaara is just Gaara. He doesn't talk unless he has something to say. However, to his family's shock these people were able to communicate with him without rising hostility or bloodshed.
"Eh... Excuse me, how did you know each other?" asks Temari.
"Oh, you mean Gaara and I? We met in the museum."
"Gaara was brilliant, he's gifted with superior instinct to spot something none of us could."
"Not even the experts knew about it until he points it out, that's where everyone realized the missing piece of the puzzle."
"He was even kind enough to share how the original owner died and how the painting ended up in the museum."
The siblings were obviously stunned because that's so unlike their brother.
"Alright, alright.. Lord Romuri. I think it's time to start the mission."
Rasa knew he had to stop him or he will never stop.
Gaara did indeed learned about the original owner. That's right after he learned about the painting.
'Was it just a coincidence?' that time he had asked himself.
Even today, he found himself no closer to the truth as sometimes the painting made him think its alive whereas other times it's just a painting.
It's how he managed to mingle with those around him because they too had been asking themselves the same question. Then again, he did surprise them with his nonchalant comment.
Aside from 'Night Lotus' and 'Desert Lotus', some gave it another more deserving name 'Silent Lotus'. People from outside Suna generally call it 'Desert Lotus', whereas those in Suna chose 'Night Lotus'. However, among the art community they prefer 'Silent Lotus'. All names were meaningful and beautiful in their own way that expresses clearly what the painting illustrates.
Additionally, Gaara also found out what happened to the previous owner.
'Coincidence? Was the painting feeling lonely because it's missing its owner?'
Now that he learned about this new piece of information, he thought there's a tinge of sadness too. Did he just pick this up? Or was it there the very beginning?
The painting is becoming more mysterious and Gaara couldn't help but wanted to find out more. As this was happening, he will find out later that teams being sent on missions to find its original creator, artist or painter. That again interest him because he too is eager to meet the person that can produce something like this. Since the painting episode, Gaara took time studying the museum's other exhibits but none have that same effect on him. Hence, it's no surprise why he's curious with its creator.
With Suna's Jinchuriki also in the picture, rumor spread that the painting can pacify even demons. There are cultists believe there are hidden messages within this mysterious painting. Most ridiculous of all, they think it was written by the gods. Combined with events that transpire where Elder Chiyo claiming something familiar in it.
Rasa at the time didn't think it was a big deal, but as shinobis talk it later reached to ears of civilians thus eventually to these diehard cultists. That lead to some to act because they think such a thing should not be viewed by commoners or atheists. Since they are no match to the village's ninjas, they hire others to do their work. By giving away village intel, the mercenaries were able to plan and nearly got their hands on the painting.
However, what they didn't take into account is the Suna Jinchuriki. He was not part of the museum security so they neglected him. What they didn't also know is Gaara sometimes sleep in the museum, seeing the demon inside him isn't coming out they let him be. Despite how young he is, Gaara is still someone even the Kazekage is wary of.
Hence, once they disabled the guards they were wrong to think the rest of the mission would be a walk in the park. The moment they let their guard down, sand immediately latch upon them before throwing them out. The rest was history as the whole village were alerted and the invaders arrested.
It was easy to deduce from the aftermath. Museum guards knocked out, foreign ninjas laying outside a line of broken walls leading to where Gaara and the painting is located. In fact, they were more surprise by the fact that these shinobis are still breathing. By morning, the true culprits were rounded up as they confess to their crimes.
Aside from the insufficient security, Rasa was surprised it was his youngest son that contributed in the painting's protection. Had Gaara not been there, the thieves would had made off with it. Sadly that would result in the ninja village's end, especially right after he got all the Daimyos to cough up for security contracts. Pissing off 17 Daimyos would literally end his ninja village.
Hence, in addition of having Gaara around, he increase the patrols around the museum. The village simply can't afford any more screw ups. On the other hand, Rasa seem to realize everything that happened up til now is because of that painting. The Daimyos, the village and now his son, they are all one way or another tied to it.
Most frustrating of all, he had already analysts and seal experts look into it, yet they found nothing out of ordinary. He even thought it could be Genjutsu but again there's none. Overall it's a complete mystery, like its some kind of natural phenomenon. The kind that his village just happens to be in.
Even now, the painting continuous to take toll on his shinobis. Teams left on the search mission returned empty handed. While not all teams came back but Rasa had a feeling they will come back the same way. Having read through the reports so far, he knew his shinobis did their job it's just that the trail went cold.
Hosuke returned to Suna a year ago, so there's no track left to track. The ninjas can trace the places he visited to back track where he came from but the ninja world is just too big. It's not like they had some advance technology or records of his movement.
If it's just in Suna and Wind Country, they could still track by going into nearby villages. However, once they enter unfamiliar territory, it became more difficult to predict their movements. For some reason, Hosuke also kept a very low profile thus making back tracing his step even harder. Somewhen they lost him, they continued on to adjacent villages but after finding nothing, all they can do is return to report their failure.
Despite the number of failures, the lords never did gave up on the idea on locating the painter.
"Rasa-dono, I want commission a mission to search for the 'Lotus'."
"My Lord, I think I may already know the answer, but may I ask why?"
"I believe if we somehow finds it, the painter could be close."
"My Lord, forgive me for being explicitly direct but the Lotus is a myth and hadn't been seen for over 500 years."
"I am sure it's out there somewhere, the painting is proof. Otherwise no-one can portrait it the way it did."
"Daimyo-sama..." the Kazekage had to stay calm to get his point across.
"I must stressfully point out that the painting may not be accurate. The biggest proof is the structure in the background because it isn't any village we know."
Rasa doubt the credibility from a drawing, thus points it out without insulting a Daimyo.
"It could be another hidden village, or just some undiscovered village. Raza-done, please take this mission. I am will to offer a B rank deal for this."
Sighing in defeat, he knew how persistent these rich people are. It's also difficult to turn down extra revenue because both his village and ninja could use the extra income.
The only downside to such missions are its failure rate. By now, they realized any mission tied to the painting will most likely be a failure. Although, the extra cash is good but its dragging down morale. Nevertheless, Rasa will put up the mission for volunteers before making it an order, he hope the extra payment would be incentive enough for desperate teams.
Suna Aftermath
Despite its zero success so far, those types of mission continued. Apparently, the Daimyos were more concerned about giving up than wasting their money. It's what's confusing Rasa because he couldn't understand their obsession and why they were so determined. It's just a painting, right?
Across the elemental nations, there are numbers of famous artists. So why are these Daimyos so fixate on this one? Sadly, it wasn't just the Daimyos from sand lords across the elemental too were commissioning the same mission with nearby ninja village. This all started by the opening of Suna's new museum.
Although a huge success, it not only attracted those within sand country but many from foreign nations. With the star attraction alone, number of Daimyos responded as they came personally to see this 'out of this world' master piece. Like the local Daimyos, each tried to steal it for themselves. Thanks to the new state of the art security system in place, the ninjas stood no chance as they were all taken by surprise.
Rasa ended up repeating his speech as he release these ninjas after getting them to agree to return to their client.
"Right, ninjas from 'Waterfall'! I will not ask you to give up the name of your client."
"As a matter of fact, provided you agree not to try again. You will be free to go."
This sounded too good to be true, so the lead ninja asked. "And what do you want in return?"
"While I can see why you are suspicious, this is not a trick."
"However, what I do want is for you to pass on this message to your client."
"Instead of stealing from my village, seek out the painter."
"That's it?" enquires the ninja as it seem reasonable.
"That's it!" confirms the Kazekage.
"If that's all, my shinobi will escort all of you to the gate, I suggest you all leave immediately."
The ninjas turns to one another because they were equally confused. While not looking a gift horse in the mouth, they maintain a professional and cautious attitude until they are on safer grounds.
True to the Kazekage's words, once they are outside Suna's walls their escorts left. Sensing no trap or ninja ambush, they left to report their mission failure. While not necessary, the ninja decides to fulfill the Kazekage agreement and pass on his message. Now that they think about it, did the Kazakage knew this would happen?
At first, the ninjas didn't think this was staged. It may sound even stupid because they are wondering if those words were curses. Perhaps, some kind of virus to infect their Daimyo. Since then, their ninjas had been sent on this fruitless merry chase for the non-existing painter.
Although most of them did not think superstitiously, but a few do believe it was the Kazakage's revenge. Overall, it's mixed feelings. They still get paid, but the mission is dragging their morale down. One group of ninja returning only to see another leaving.
"Painter?" "Painter."
One asking inquisitively, whereas the other responded dejectively. Then both would sigh while wishing the other luck.
It's happening on other nations too, so it's not just one village suffering. When ninjas from different villages bump into one another, instead of going into fight mode they exchange mission details.
"Grass?" one is obviously asking the other the village they belong.
The other nodded.
"Lightning?" the same question to the other and the ninja team too responded affirmatively.
"Painter?" both teams almost asked at the same time and from their postures, it was easy to see the same depressing response. Since the painting surfaced in Suna, every Daimyo, Lord, businessman or wealthy individual were on some kind of trend frenzy. Unlike rare items, painters do not paint just one picture in their life.
Thus, its no surprise how they believe there's more waiting to be discovered. Suna was suspiciously more than happy to supply every village their evidence. They even agree foreign nations to supply experts of their own to verify their 'evidence'. In the end, they knew it's genuine.
Sadly, this only made these rich individual more determined. Perhaps, this was Suna's plan all along, to get every village to help find this painter. Unfortunately, despite that many attempts, there are nothing. None of the ninjas could understand it, aren't they ninjas, aren't they specialize in tracking and locating?
It's still unbelievable and inconceivable, according to experts such painting is like a maelstrom. Once discovered, it should be impossible to plug it. Suna's 'Desert Lotus' was a fine example. Hence, what the ninjas couldn't understand is how both the painter and the rest of his work elude the combine efforts of multi-nation ninjas? Is he living in a cave or some remote mountain or something? Sadly, without the middle ground it's next to impossible to trace or backtrack to the original.
Anyway, back to the two teams of ninjas.
"Wanna beer? My treat and you tell me everything you know."
"Sure, the second round's on me and you do the same for me."
The repetitive mission are getting on every ninja's nerves, yet their client's insistence the village accept them.
Hence, even if they are potential enemies they rather share than withhold information. At least this way, they can cover more grounds and not repeat the same fruitless trail the other team did. It's unprecedented but they had to be creative and go outside the book. Clearly, other ninjas are feeling the same way and their tired expression said it all.
Even Konoha ninjas prefer chasing their demon cat than this 'Mystery Painter' mission. At least it will be inside the village and their target is existent. Many ninja villages think there's no artist and the painting was Suna's financial plot to get extra funding. Ninjas too had sneak into Suna to track down the painting's origin and asking about the previous owner.
Funny, while Konoha ninjas were involved they never wonder why their own Daimyo never once request such mission. Of course, at the time none of them thought about the issue let alone suspect anything. Then again, they had enough headaches from other Daimyos. If the Fire Lord weren't interested, it's one less such senseless mission to worry about.
Orochimaru
As if that was not bad enough, Orochimaru too came to Suna.
"Thank you, Kazekage for seeing me. Please let me get to the point and explain why I am here."
"Yes, Orochimaru I did like to understand why Konoha's '2nd' most wanted missing-nin is currently in my village."
Knowing the Snake Sannin had somehow got into his village without alerting his shinobis troubled him.
However, Orochimaru is a Sannin for reason hence it didn't surprise the Kazekage how easily he could bypass his village security. While the ex-Konoha ninja is '2nd' most wanted, he isn't less dangerous. Number One goes to the infamous 'Clan Slayer' Itachi Uchiha. He's higher than the Sannin is because both of his crime and how dangerous he is.
"Alright, let's get straight to the business. The 'Chunin' exam will be starting soon and it will be in Konoha. I want our villages to work together for the same common goal."
It's an interesting news, Orochimaru having a village thus why Rasa is very curious.
"And... what common goal is that you are proposing?"
He wants elaboration because he's also interested in why the Snake Sannin is being so confident.
"Why? Attacking our mutal enemy - Konoha. I am aware your Daimyo had been outsourcing missions to the Leaf. Surely, you want some payback."
"I, on the other hand too have a score to settle with the Sandaime."
"We both know by ourselves we could not match the true might of Konoha."
"However, if we combine our resources and along with the surprise, we should have no problem in toppling the village."
Now Rasa seems to understand, had this been before he would had agreed to the Sannin's idea. However, things had changed in Suna and somehow the Sannin's news is out-dated.
"Orochimaru, while the collaboration plan does have merit and I would certainly go along in the past."
"However, I think your news source is a little out-dated."
"Although you are right, I do want Konoha pay but recently our village took a huge turn so I would risk a war."
"So in the meantime, I will pretend our meeting didn't occur but wish you a good luck in your endeavor and finding another village in your plan."
Orochimaru was surprised because he was sure he could convince the Kazakage with his plan. Like the man said, his news was not up to date so he had Kabuto find out as he slowly make his way to the gate.
On his exit he was stopped and recognized by the guards.
"Oro.. Oro.. Oro.. Orochimaru? How did you get into the village."
"Don't worry lads, I am just leaving."
Obviously, the ninja guards were lost in what they should do. Their job were to stop people like him from entering the village, since he wants to leave they didn't have a protocol for this.
Just when they think they should detain him, the Anbus arrive.
"Let the Sannin leave, for this one time pretend he's never here."
The guards understood the hidden message, what they saw are now classified. It was obvious, Suna don't want the public to know their ally's biggest traitor was involved with their village.
"YES, SIR." it was both an acknowledgment of the hidden order and what's being said.
The guards returns to their duty while at the same time ignoring their visitor. Having stayed and watched the Sannin leave, the Anbus too disperse and reporting to their leader. They were also aware of Kabuto's movements as a men team of Anbus were keeping an eye on him.
Seeing he's not doing anything harmful, they were only there to observe. Information are more valuable than trying to preventing doing what he want. By monitoring his activities, they can plan and prepare what's to come. True enough, once the Kazakage learned of their report, he upped the village security.
One can never be too careful when it comes to the Sannins, hence extra measures were put in place just in case. Orochimaru is unpredictable, so he could be mad by his rejection or simply just want to take something from the village. The list could go on, hence the Kazakage isn't taking chances.
That night, Suna had 4 uninvited guests in the village and their obvious target is the museum. Rasa was prepared as he had elites guarding the painting along with his son Gaara. Gaara spends most of his time there anyway, so he doesn't mind. Somehow the two had been civil with one another, Rasa treating him like a human being whereas Gaara more reciprocal in taking his orders.
However, none of the invaders made it into the main room where the shinobi and the painting is.
"What's happened?"
"You fools must have set off the traps."
"No way, we touched nothing. It has to be Jirobo, his fatass knock into everything wherever he gos."
"Hush, listen."
Too bad none of them had time to argue anymore as an alarm was already set off outside. However, if that's not bad enough, they can hear rumble in the distance and before they knew it the room entrance closed on them.
"What the f***?"
"Sh**, this is bad."
It wasn't just the rumble in the distance, as the room they are in also starts to move and making rumbling sound. Since they were trapped, they had to ride it out. When it's over, the trapped Sakon/Ukon had them rescue him.
"Get us out now, the mission's a bust. Orochimaru will be furious but Sand mustn't catch any of us."
As much as they wish to pass the blames, they knew even they get out of this there will likely be punishments ahead. For once they all agree on one thing, Jirobo didn't need to be told what to do. He's the strongest and biggest of them so with his bare hands he rip open the steel bars and release Sakon and Ukon.
"Let's get the fu** out!"
Unfortunately, that's probably easier said than done when they tries to return where they came.
"Hey, this isn't where we came in?" cries Kidomaru.
"No shit, genius. That loud rumbling must had been the security system. F***!"
"Shut up, shitstain. Keep running. And don't set off any more fuc**** traps."
Unfortunately, it was already too late as another trap sprung and caught the red-head in a net.
"That's it, THIS FUC**** ENDS NOW."
She's both frustrated and pissed as traps appear one after another and where they least expect them. Tayuya, as prideful as she is of herself didn't like to be caught off guard. She was also particularly careful, so when one just hit her out of nowhere she was furious.
So she immediately went into 2nd stage of the curse seal before ripping the net to shreds. She didn't stop as she continue on to the next room. Clearly, it was the right idea because they knew they didn't have time to hold back. So they too transform and ran after her and bulldoze through anything that came their way.
"Where the fu** is that damn exit?"
"I swear, I will find the mo********** that built this shit. Then I will rip off his balls!"
It's no wonder Tayuya's this pissed as every time they set off a trap, not only do they have to break out, the museum layout too is renewed. It's certainly not very funny when you wanted to get out.
They thought they were making progress until they found themselves back in the same room they demolished.
"What the f***, this is the same f****** room we left."
"No, I think the room just came to us. Keep going."
As frustrating as it is, they didn't have a lot of options.
They had tried to destroy the walls but it was re-enforced by some unknown material and jutsus had minimum effect. Hence, the only option they have is running randomly through every room in hope they somehow find the exit. One good thing out of this is that the destroyed room no longer trigger the security system, thus by extension the shuffling mechanism would not activate. However, when they come into undamaged rooms they had to be very careful or the museum layout will change again.
Just when they starts to think they could never get out, they suddenly found themselves out of the building. Was it the system or just dumb luck, the four had no idea. One thing they know is that they are not going back in there. They were just in time too as they can sense Anbus very close. Quickly they made their way out of the village before the full lock down took place.
Unfortunately for 'Sound Four' their crisis wasn't over as Orochimaru's waiting for their report. Based on their empty hands and the Sunagakure's alert, he knew they had failed. Despite that, he was quite amused by their report. Aside from their carelessness, the security system is quite formidable and borderline ingenius.
He will think of something as punishment but in the meantime they will have to leave. It's not that he's afraid of Suna, but a matter of being too early to write them off as potential ally. The Kazakage is still pissed off with Konoha, hence if he present him an opportunity they may still side with him. It's one of the main reason he's not escalating it.
As to the Kazakage, he knew Orochimaru was somehow involved but he wasn't made. Aside from the property damage that could easily be replaced, the village is relatively untouched. He was also quite pleased by the system's performance, especially against the Sannin's personal ninjas. From the little he gather through their little meeting, he knew Orochimaru wouldn't just sent any nobody into his village.
However, what he most concerned about through this ordeal is the affect of the painting because somehow it managed to snatch a Sannin's attention. So far, every Lord across the elemental nation is interest in it. Sometimes, he wonder who would be the next victim. His son was a huge surprise and he had a feeling the Biju within him is somehow affected.
Now that a Sannin too came into view and he's no longer surprised. While his son is on missions, Rasa would sometimes stare at the painting for hours. It wasn't because he's finally learned to appreciate it, he's still trying to figure what it is. For months he's been at it, yet he couldn't find what's so appealing to the Daimyos and public.
Unfortunately for him, he can stare all he wants he will never understand it unless he open himself to it. It's like meditation as some people can do it whereas other are too agitated for such practice. Rasa is suspicious by nature, hence he would not let himself fall or get himself captivated. Hence, no matter how hard he tries, he could never understand its true value.
As being said, there had been experts and professional artists coming into Suna because of the mystery painting. They would study it, copy or replicate it. However, while the art can be passed off as the original, their paintings lacked spirit? When placed side by side, the extra quality is more apparent and many professionals are still struggling to understand why.
It was simply an amazing discovery and it only raise the value of the original. Many wondered if this is so new painting technique or a ninja bloodline. So far, there's simply no explanation as experts continues to wonder what made it unique and if it can be replicated.