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Chapter 21 (No Other Choice), Chapter 22 (Team Kumo Vs Team Konoha), Chapter 23 (Live or Die), Chapter 24 (Leaving The Land of Tea), Chapter 25 (A Night of Pleasure), Chapter 26 (Similar to Minato?), Chapter 27 (Minato's son), Chapter 28 (The Black Cat of Kumo), Chapter 29 (Purple Lightning), and Chapter 30 (Yoruichi's Pleasure) are already available for Patrons.
Later
Idate had a black eye and a severe headache when he awoke. The last thing he recalled was the blonde ninja guy punching him in the face because he was clutching his...
"Where has my knife gone?"
Idate saw his pocket knife close by. Its blade protrudes from the ground downward. Idate promptly got up and rushed to get it, but then he saw the carved written message next to the knife on the ground.
'Hello, Idate. Please accept my apologies for accidentally touching your 'valuable' knife. I had no idea you were so strange about it; maybe you have it to keep yourself company. Fortunately for you, I'm not a thief. BUT you mocked the shinobi title and cheated your way out of your bill. Putting that aside, since you like issuing 'Simple Warnings,' I'll offer you mine. If I ever see you again, I'm going to chop your balls off with that lovely little knife of yours. Your Nightmare'
Idate laughed off the warning as if it were a joke, but he couldn't help but feel a shiver up his spine.
He was knocked down cold by a single blow from the alleged Naruto. Imagine if he meant it when he said he was going to harm him. That concept alone was enough to make him feel frightened.
JIOGO'S RESIDENCE IN THE WAGARASHI FAMILY COMPOUND
As Team 10 regrouped with their Jonin Sensei, they found themselves standing in front of Jiogo, the well-respected Head of the Wagarashi Family, and their esteemed customer. The group was greeted warmly by Jiogo, whose sincere appreciation for their presence was evident in his grateful reply, "Welcome and thank you, everybody, for coming; I hope your journey here went well."
"Not at all, Jiogo-san. We understand how important this race is to your nation. My name is Darui, Elite Jonin, and this is my Genin team: Naruto Uzumaki, Yugito Nii, and Omoi," Darui explains as he introduces his team.
"At your service." Naruto greeted.
With a grin, Yugito responded, "Nice to meet you, Jiogo-san."
With a leisurely wave, Omoi remarked, "What's up."
"It's good to meet all of you, and it's an honor to have you here; I'm grateful for your assistance," Jiogo stated, smiling.
"Now that we've said our hellos, let's get down to business," Darui said, "Lord Raikage ordered us to acquire the specifics of our mission straight from you."
"I'm sure Lord Raikage has already told everything to you about the Dedication Ceremony at the Great Todoroki Shrine that takes place every four years," Jiogo said, assuring them of their understanding of the issue.
"Yes," Naruto said, "but if you could perhaps explain more, we would be grateful."
"All right, please have a seat," Jiogo stated, motioning the four shinobis to take a seat so they could hear the explanation.
"It all started a long time ago. Legend has it that in order to subdue a terrible storm, the people dedicated the 'Ryuko's Jewels' to the Great Todoroki Shrine in desperation. And it worked. The storms went away, and it became a customary event that happens every four years. At first, it was just to dedicate the Jewels. But several decades ago, it became a festival and a race. The winner of the Race
"However, in recent years, what was once a friendly race has taken on a troubling aspect. For generations, the Port-town of Degarashi has been divided into two families; The Wasabi and the Wagarashi. Two rivaling Gambling Organizations. Both Families wanted control over the town, which naturally led to disputes. These disputes became increasingly violent, at times resulting in all-out battles. The rest of the town's people were caught in the crossfire. Many were killed.
"Finally, in an attempt to break the cycle of violence, our district head called on both sides to get together and reach an agreement; from now on, control of the town will be chosen by competition rather than street brawls," Jiogo revealed.
"What kind of competition is it?" Yugito inquired.
"The Race is held every four years at the Great Todoroki Shrine Dedication Ceremony. Due to how dangerous this race is, I need you to make sure my runner is not harmed in any way," Jirocho said, his voice sad.
"I implore you all," Jirocho said as he bowed down to the four shinobi before him.
"Please contribute your strength to our family; the people are thriving under our rule. Everyone is happy and prosperous. Our land needs House Wagarashi to lead for another four years," Jirocho urged, his voice with desperation in his tone. Naruto could tell the man was lying through his teeth, but he had hired them, so he kept his mouth shut.
Omoi said, "So, who do you want us to accompany anyway?"
Jiogo smiled and clapped his hands, "Excellent, so you'll accept the job then."
The Wagarashi family's selected Runner emerged from the sliding door beside them.
"Yes, Boss, you called for me?" said the runner.
"Yes, dear Akni. These are shinobi from Kumo. They will make sure nothing bad happens to you during the race." Jiogo spoke, pointing at the Kumo Team; Darui couldn't help but narrow his eyes; something here was definitely off.
"Ohh, Good. But before we start, I want you to know I'm the runner and the boss. Don't get in my way during the race." Akni warned the Kumo Team; Yugito's blood boiled with anger as she clenched her fists tightly, resisting the urge to pummel Akni's face into the ground. Naruto, on the other hand, simply smirked to himself, wondering if he could outsmart the overly confident runner and put him in his place.
"Watch your tone, brat," Naruto spoke in a deep, menacing voice, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous intensity that sent shivers down the runner's spine. The young athlete was taken aback by the sudden change in the atmosphere and knew that he had angered Naruto, who was not one to be trifled with. However, Naruto's threat was not just an idle one, as he continued in a low growl, "I don't think you need your tongue to win the race." The runner gritted his teeth.
"You are supposed to protect me," Akni declared with an air of superiority. "From now on, you do whatever I tell you to do." Naruto's patience was wearing thin as he resisted the urge to cut the brat's head off. Suddenly, Darui cleared his throat while putting a hand on Naruto's shoulder and tightening his grip slightly, causing him to wince.
"Please forgive my Genin. He's new to this." Darui apologized respectfully; Akni grinned triumphantly while Yugito and Omoi glared at the runner.
"Good. At least one of you knows his place." Akni spoke with a sinister smile before looking at Yugito with clear lust in his eyes.
DEGARASHI
Naruto and Akni are presently strolling along Degarashi Street. To clear the air between the two, Darui believed it would be a good idea. He just hopes that Naruto does not murder the person he is supposed to protect.
"Boss Jirocho is a very important guy around here," Akni grumbled, "I really hope he knows what he is doing hiring worthless Shinobi like you."
"I'm still a shinobi on duty, and whether I like it or not, I still have to escort your crappy ass," Naruto remarked, his voice tinged with hate.
Akni screamed at the younger blonde lad beside him, "Believe me! If I wanted an escort, it would not be some snotnose runt like you!"
"For the sake of my assignment, I'm going to pretend you didn't just call me that. I'm still your bodyguard, Akni," Naruto responded angrily.
Akni merely sneered, "Hmph."
ELSEWHERE - Omoi AND Yugito
Yugito and Omoi, made a decision to explore the vibrant town. As they sauntered through the bustling streets, their eyes darted from one fascinating sight to the next. However, their curiosity was piqued when they stumbled upon a quaint trinket store, beckoning to them with its colorful display of knick-knacks and souvenirs.
Without hesitation, they stepped inside. As they perused through the store, their eyes widening in wonder and awe, they couldn't help but notice that the prices of most items were unexpectedly exorbitant compared to their actual value. Nevertheless, they continued to browse, admiring the intricate designs and unique craftsmanship of the various trinkets on display.
"These rates are absurd, even if it's a Tourist Resort," Yugito told Omoi.
"Perhaps it's a high market," Omoi said sloppily.
However, the shopkeeper overheard their 'not so quiet' talk.
"I'm sorry about that; even I know it's pretty pricey," the shopkeeper acknowledged to her products' 'dramatic' overpricing.
"Oh no, I didn't mean..." Yugito apologized, hoping she hadn't offended the shopkeeper, but she didn't seem to mind.
"Oh, don't worry, sweetheart, we don't want to sell at these rates too, but once the Wagarashi family took control of this town..." The woman shopkeeper couldn't complete her statement because they all heard a huge crash and the sound of shattered glass just outside the store.
They went to investigate and saw three goons in the middle of the street harassing one of the town's merchants.
As he kneeled on the floor before the three goons, the elderly Merchant implored, "P-Please pardon me."
"How dare you! When we want something, we take it! GOT IT! You wouldn't even be in business if it weren't for the Wagarashi!" said one of the goons, who was later shown to be a Wagarashi family member.
"I know, I know...only it's that...to take it without paying for it is..." the elderly merchant reasoned, but he was ignored.
"You don't understand it, do you? Boys, go steal his things while I give him a lesson," the alleged leader said, ordering his two goons to plunder the shopkeeper.
The elderly merchant, with his wrinkled face and trembling hands, pleaded with the group of bandits who were attempting to rob him of his hard-earned goods. "No, p-please stop!" he exclaimed, his voice quivering with fear and desperation. He attempted to resist their advances, but the leader of the group seized his shirt collar and pulled him closer. The old man's heart raced with terror as he braced himself for the worst.The leader sneered at the old merchant, his eyes glinting with malice.
"Perhaps this will help you comprehend!" he exclaimed, raising his hand and attempting to strike the defenseless man in the face. The old merchant closed his eyes and braced for impact.
Only to be halted by Yugito, who came out of nowhere and grabbed the Leader's impending fist, firmly holding it.
As soon as the leader spotted the platinum-blonde female, he said, "What the hell! Who are you?"
"Why don't you and your buddies go for a hike?" Yugito suggested, her tone solemn.
"My, my, what have we got here? She's quite a gorgeous little thing, isn't she?" one of the other two goons returned after hearing his commander shouting.
He, like the other, had a wicked smile and a ravenous expression in his eyes.
"Yeah, why don't you come with us, blonde, and we'll show you a wonderful time," the other thug remarked. His tongue flicked across his lips in a way that made Yugito's skin crawl.
"Well, if you want me, come get me; after all, you can take anything you want, right?" Yugito challenged, disgusted.
"Please get her out of there! These individuals are from the Wagarashi Family, and they are dangerous, particularly to a little girl like her," implored the Lady shopkeeper to Omoi.
"Don't worry, she'll be alright; it's them who should be concerned," Omoi replied, a confident grin on his face.
"YOU ASKED FOR IT! GET HER, BOYS!" shouted the commander to his two companions.
The woman shopkeeper instantly hid her face behind her hands. She couldn't stand seeing the three Wagarashi goons attack the adorable blonde girl.
The only noises she heard were excruciating writhing and bones snapping.
When she opened her eyes, she, like the rest of the audience, was taken aback by the spectacle in front of them.
"Y-You won't get away with this! We'll get you next time, lady! Don't mess with us, or you'll get what you deserve!" shouted one of the three bruised and battered Wagarashi thugs as he and the other thug were preparing to depart with their unconscious boss.
Because she didn't enjoy the sound of threats, Yugito clenched her fists loudly enough for the thugs to hear, forcing them to shriek in terror and flee as quickly as they could.
"Thank you, whatever you are, young lady," the elderly Merchant remarked as he humbly bent his head to the platinum-blonde girl.
"Look at those guys run! Now, if the Wasabi family can win the race, we'll be done with them for good," the woman shopkeeper said gleefully as she assisted the elderly merchant.
"Are you all well, Yugito?" Omoi said, concerned about his buddy.
"Don't worry, Omoi," Yugito remarked confidently. "Those creeps aren't even worth breaking a sweat."
THE GUEST ROOM AT JIOGO'S RESIDENCE
Naruto, Yugito, and Omoi are currently in Darui's guest room, confronting him. He seemed to have something essential to say to them.
"All right, gentlemen, here's a brief mission update: I won't be accompanying you on the escort tomorrow," Darui said.
Yugito inquired, "What? Why?"
"Apparently, the Daimyo of the Land of Tea has ordered me to examine the Wagarashi Family and the Minister of Port Degarashi since the Daimyo feels the Minister has been questionably prejudiced with the Wagarashi and suspects foul play," Darui explained his new job to them.
Omoi said, "So you believe this Minister is assisting the Wagarashi?"
"Perhaps. That is what I aim to find out."
"But aren't we hired by them? What should we do?" Yugito questioned, she didn't like that she was hired by them, but they were Shinobi, and they would need to complete their job without asking questions.
"That's not important. Right now, you go on with the mission like usual. I will let you know if anything changes. From what I understood, the Konoha team is hired by the other family, so it is possible you might encounter them during the race. If you fight with them, do what is necessary to survive." Darui explained strictly; his team nodded in understanding; the thought of fighting the Konoha team didn't really sit well with Naruto.
"So we'll accompany Akni by ourselves," Naruto said. "Are you sure we're ready, Sensei?"
"Yes, I have complete faith in you three and your abilities, and I am confident you will succeed. Naruto, I am appointing you as acting captain of Team 10 until my mission is completed. And a word of advice: while completing a mission is important, never jeopardize the safety of your comrades," Darui advised his sunny blonde student.
"Yes, Sensei," Naruto answered confidently, "I will defend them all with my life."
"And I'll guard yours with mine," Yugito responded, pledging to protect her 'Blonde' at all costs.
"It's too inconvenient to die last, so I'll make sure you people are safe as well," Omoi replied calmly, but he meant every word.
"Hahaha, you guys never fail to surprise me. Good luck tomorrow, and beware of the enemy shinobi. Those from Clan Nara are infamous for their Shadow Possessing Jutsu," Darui warned his squad.
"We'll be cautious, Sensei," Naruto promised with a cheerful grin.
Kiri
"You asked for me, Mei-Sama?" A man asked respectfully as he entered the tent; he was around his thirties, and he had an eyepatch on his right eye.
As Mei stood with her back turned, her auburn hair cascading down her middle back in waves, and her luscious red lips pursed in determination, she radiated an air of confidence and poise that belied her position as the leader of the Revolution. Clad in a stunning blue dress that perfectly hugged her curves, she exuded both strength and femininity - a combination that made her all the more captivating to those who followed her cause. And yet, despite the weight of her responsibility and the gravity of the mission before her, she remained focused and unrelenting in her pursuit of justice, determined to overthrow the tyrannical reign of Yagura and restore freedom to her people.
Mei, is a tall and slender woman with a complexion as fair as a pearl, is a sight to behold with her striking green eyes that seem to gleam like emeralds in the sun. Her ankle-length hair, a rich auburn hue, is styled into a herringbone pattern at the back, giving her a sophisticated and regal air. The top of her head is adorned with a top-knot tied with a dark blue band, adding a pop of color to her otherwise earthy palette. Her hair is parted into four bangs at the front, framing her face in a way that accentuates her sharp features. Two of these bangs are short, with one artfully draped over her right eye, giving her an air of mystery. The other two are long, crossing each other on her bust, just below her chin, lending her an air of elegance and poise.
She wears a long-sleeved, dark blue dress that falls just below the knees. It seems to be closed at the front with a zipper and is kept open on the front-right side from the waist down. The dress only covers the upper part of her arms and the underside of her breasts. Underneath, she wears mesh armor that covers slightly more of her upper body than her dress. She also wears a skirt in the same color as her dress and, underneath those, mesh leggings reaching down over her knees. Around her waist, she wears a belt with a pouch attached to the back on the left, along with high-heeled sandals, shin guards reaching up over her knees, dark blue nail polish on her fingers and toes, and is usually shown with purple lipstick.
"Yes, I need you to go to Kumo," Mei stated with a sense of urgency, her eyes still glued to the paper in her hands. "I need you to talk with the Raikage and deliver this message on behalf of me."
Ao's curiosity was piqued, and he respectfully bowed his head as he inquired, "Why do we need to meet with the Raikage? Is there something urgent that requires our attention?"
Mei turned to look at him; a smirk reached her face; she knew only one who would write this letter.
"We need help to defeat Yagura, and right now, Kumo is the only village with a perfect Jinchuuriki that can fight one on one against Yagura," Mei spoke; Ao's visible eye widened slightly.
As they debated their next move, a figure watched from the shadows, silently observing their every move. It was clear that they were not alone in their quest to defeat Yagura - someone else was watching their every move, waiting for the right opportunity to strike.
Interesting, the figure thought to themselves, quickly sinking into the ground before anyone noticed him.
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