Chereads / Crimson Faith : A Naruto Tale / Chapter 19 - And the world move on..

Chapter 19 - And the world move on..

On the Hokage building, our voyeur, uh, I mean, the Third Hokage was smiling at what he considered a successful team bonding session. He shut down the observation ball, now enjoying his pipe in peace. However, his smile faded as he saw the mountain of paperwork waiting for him. Turning to the side, Shukaku, the tailed beast, was smiling at him(Im joking) Shikaku,The Nara patriache remarked on Kakashi taking a team, expressing surprise and half-expecting him to fail.

"I genuinly didnt expect him to pass them. " Hiruzen smiled back, stating that these children would contribute to Kakashi's growth and that the current level of the Copy Ninja was not the end.

"I trusted in those childrens ability to Touch Kakashi "

"I just hope that they can be a good reason for him to wake up and Sharpen his dull edge "

Leaning back in his chair, he used his pipe to knock twice on the desk, and a masked ANBU operative appeared. The Third Hokage instructed the ANBU to retrieve the scroll from Konohamaru and convey that starting tomorrow, he and Naruto would meet him every evening at the calligraphy room. With a nod, the ANBU disappeared. Turning back to Shikaku's intrigued expression, he mentioned that he was just preparing for the future, emphasizing the importance of neat writing.

"You see, it won't do for our young ninja to have messy handwriting. A clear and precise hand is a reflection of discipline and focus."

"Guess both Naruto and Konohamaru are gonna have some hard times "Hiruzen,giving a wary smile,told him he just doing a service

" I'm Just preparing them for the responsibilities ahead"

"Besides, a little order in handwriting never hurt anyone " 

Shikaku, understanding the Hokage's tendency to Intrigue, gave a polite smile. placing the paperwork on the desk,He saluted the Hokage teasingly

"Then i hope our great lord hokage will show us some of that order on his handwriting by signing those paper waiting for him "leaving the room at this.

The Hokage, now faced with even more work, sighed and begrudgingly returned to his duties.

The same evening, at the Jounin meeting, the Hokage called for a brief report on the status of each newly formed team. Each Jounin provided a succinct overview of the nature of their team's test, concluding with the evaluation of their performance. Unfortunately, more than half of the teams faced challenges related to teamwork, exposing deficiencies in collaboration.

One notable exception was Team 1, which earned a mention due to their exceptional specialized talents. Ami's impressive sensing abilities and Hibachi's aptitude for interrogation marked them as promising individuals.while failling their exam,their teacher left a note that they should be directed in more specialised field.

On the positive side, Team 6 emerged as a success story during their test. The Jounin highlighted their cohesive teamwork, with special recognition given to Makoto for displaying remarkable healing skills at such a young age. The Jounin present took particular interest in Team 6, with Genma expressing the view that their skills leaned toward an auxiliary focus.

"While their individual skills didnt show high fighting potential,I suggest they all get trained in Specialised auxiliary skills "

"Makoto Also shown the ability to use the Healing palm"Getting some exclamation from the jounin aroud.

Genma proposed that Makoto be given additional time at the hospital to nurture and harness his unique talents given their potential significance in a support role. The proposal garnered attention and sparked discussions among the Jounin, recognizing the value of Makoto's healing abilities within the team.

Genma, leaning casually against a wall, elaborated on his suggestion, "Makoto has shown exceptional aptitude in medical ninjutsu. I believe giving him additional time at the hospital for specialized training can elevate his skills to a level where he becomes an even more valuable asset to the team."

Asuma, puffing on his cigarette, voiced his support, "Having a strong support role can make all the difference during missions. Makoto's healing abilities could provide the edge they need, especially in critical situations."

Kurenai, smiling at him, added, "It aligns with our goal of having well-rounded teams. Makoto's skills could be the key to not just recovery but also ensuring the team's sustainability during prolonged missions."

As the Jounin continued to exchange thoughts, the Hokage, observing the animated conversation, nodded in approval. "Genma's proposal has merit. It's crucial to recognize and invest in the unique talents of our shinobi. Iruka, Take notes, and let the hospital know that the village will supports Makoto training at the hospital if he ever show the wish for it."

Iruka, taking notes, prepared to communicate the decision to The hospital, ensuring that Makoto's talents were nurtured for the benefit of the entire team and Konoha.

During Asuma's report, he expressed his liking for the kids in his team, emphasizing their good potential. He requested that his team be oriented toward support and intelligence roles.

"I've got a solid team," Asuma remarked, his usual laid-back demeanor giving way to a genuine smile. "Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji—they've got a good head on their shoulders. Shikamaru's analytical skills are impressive, Ino's sharp instincts, and Choji's resilience make for a balanced trio."

Asuma took a drag from his cigarette before continuing, "I've been thinking. Given their skills and temperaments, I believe Team 10 would shine in support and intelligence roles. Shikamaru's strategic mind, Ino's sensory abilities, and Choji's durability—putting them in roles that capitalize on these strengths could make them an invaluable asset to Konoha."

Anko, chiming in from the side, added with a smirk, "Sounds like you've got a plan brewing, Asuma."

Asuma chuckled, "You know me, always thinking a few steps ahead. But seriously, I believe Team 10 has the potential to excel in roles that require quick thinking and adaptability."

The Hokage, appreciating Asuma's insight, nodded. "It's essential to recognize and nurture each team's unique strengths. Asuma, proceed with your plan. We'll monitor their progress closely."

When it was Kurenai's turn, she adorned the proceedings with a charming smile, commending Kiba's excellent teamwork and willingness to assist his comrades. She pointed out that all three members displayed outstanding senses and harmony, proposing that her team be directed toward search and reconnaissance duties.

As Kurenai took her turn to present Team 8's progress, her usual air of calm and composed demeanor was accompanied by a warm smile that seemed to brighten the room.

"I must say, my team has been a pleasure to work with," Kurenai began, her eyes reflecting genuine pride. "Kiba, Hinata, and Shino—all three have shown exceptional dedication and a willingness to assist each other during the test."

"Kiba's ability to coordinate with his teammates, coupled with Hinata's Byakugan observation skills and Shino's strategic approach, creates a harmonious unit."

Hiruzen, intrigued, leaned forward, "What do you propose for Team 8, Kurenai?"

With a charming smile, Kurenai outlined her suggestion, "Considering their outstanding senses and the synergy they've developed, I propose directing Team 8 towards search and reconnaissance duties. Kiba's tracking abilities, Hinata's Byakugan, and Shino's use of his insects could make them an invaluable asset in gathering information and locating targets." 

"They may some potential in Blitzkierg tactics,doing a quick strike and run "

The room fell into a collective silence as all eyes turned to Kakashi, who appeared entirely absorbed in his book, ignoring the weight of the expectant gazes fixed upon him. The Hokage, a touch of impatience in his tone, cleared his throat and directed the question to Kakashi.

"Kakashi, any report on Team Seven?"

Kakashi, without looking up from his book, replied with casual nonchalance, "Did someone say something?"

The Hokage's patience wore thin, a visible throbbing vein on his temple as he pressed, "Kakashi, we're waiting for your report."

With a dramatic turn of a page, Kakashi finally glanced up, feigning innocence. "Ah, my apologies. I got lost in this riveting novel. Now, where were we?"

Asuma, leaning back with a bemused expression, couldn't resist a comment, "I never thought I'd see the day when Kakashi actually passes a team."

Kakashi, enjoying the attention, responded with a sly smile, "Well, miracles do happen. Team Seven has passed."

Kurenai, curious about the reason behind Kakashi's decision, directly asked him. 

"Is there anything special about them ? did you pass them after seeing sasuke talent ? " 

Kakashi responded with an enigmatic eye-smile, refusing to elaborate. Turning back to the Hokage for further clarification, He told that his team should be given more battle oriented mission.

The Hokage, taking a moment with his pipe, contemplated Kakashi's request for battle-oriented missions for Team Seven. The room fell into a brief silence before the Hokage, exhaling a puff of smoke, acknowledged the request with a noncommittal hum.

"Maybe not this soon,after some preparation "

"Battle-oriented missions, Kakashi? That's a bit unusual for a new team," Asuma remarked, raising an eyebrow.

Kakashi, leaning back with a relaxed demeanor, simply responded, "Figured they'd benefit from the challenges."

The others exchanged glances, some with surprise and others with curiosity. The Hokage, after a moment of contemplation, decided to wrap up the meeting.

"Well, it seems Kakashi has his own ideas. We'll consider the request. For now, let's conclude the meeting. Take some time to rest, everyone," the Hokage announced, signaling the end of the discussion.

As the participants filed out of the room, Kakashi, with his characteristic eye-smile, left the meeting with an air of satisfaction

In a secluded location far outside of Konoha, a hooded figure engaged in a dark blood ritual. A triangle of candles surrounded a blood circle, and before him hung the lifeless body of a monk, his corpse nailed to a wall.

As the hooded figure immersed himself in the sinister ritual, the flickering candles cast dancing shadows on the cold walls. The stillness of the surroundings only amplified the gravity of the scene. The hooded man's voice, low and resonant, echoed in the desolate space.

"The time is ripe for the convergence, the melding of realms in the name of Jashin. The blood offerings shall weave the fabric of darkness, and the sacrificial echoes will resonate through the abyss."

The lifeless body of the monk, a macabre centerpiece to the ritual, seemed to sway ever so slightly in the unholy breeze. Nailed to the wall, the monk's vacant eyes bore witness to the twisted proceedings.

"Jashin, My Lord,grant me the strength to pierce the veil, to beckon your malevolent presence into this realm. With each drop of blood, I bind myself to your darkness, invoking the chaos that lurks beyond mortal understanding."

The hooded figure's hands in prayer as he muttered incantations that transcended the boundaries of sanity. The gruesome tableau before him took on an otherworldly quality, as if the very air pulsated with an unseen malevolence.

"In the abyss, let our destinies intertwine. May the shadows birth forth the harbinger of eternal night. Jashin, hear my call and bestow upon me the gifts of the abyssal realm."

The hooded figure's eerie soliloquy continued, each whispered word resonating with an unholy energy that permeated the desolate space, marking the inception of a dark convergence.

Suddenly, the tranquility was disrupted by approaching footsteps. The man ceased his prayers and turned to see two figures clad in robes. Rising from his position, known as Hidan of the Akatsuki, he a loud curse facing the newcomers.

"What in the hell do you fucker want? Can't you see I'm in the middle of something important here?"

"Forgive our intrusion, Hidan-sama.but urgent matters have arisen that require your immediate attention."

"Urgent matters? There's nothing more urgent than communing with Lord Jashin. You better have a damn good reason for interrupting me."

"Hidan-sama, we bring news from the higher echelons of our organization."

"News you say? Well, it better be worth the interruption. What do they want ? "

"The cell hidden in konoha failed "

Hidan, his eyes narrowed, fixed his gaze on the robed man, demanding answers. The woman by his side kept her silence, her dark and grey hair cascading over her shoulders as she knelt patiently.

Hidan impatiently yelled at him "Spit it out. Who's the heretic that messed up Lord Jashin's ressurection plan in Konoha? "

"It was Kakashi Hatake, Hidan-sama. He led the Jounin, and Asuma Sarutobi confronted us during the mission. Our subordinate failed to capture the Nine-Tails' power as ordered."

"Kakashi hatake, huh? That damn Sharingan-wielding bastard. And Asuma... Those Konoha dogs have some guts to interfere with Our divine plan."

"Our apologies, Hidan-sama. We understand the gravity of our failure."

Hidan sarcastically told him "Failure is an understatement. You fools can't even handle a simple mission. I bet you didn't even get to spill anyone important blood."

"We're prepared to make amends, Hidan-sama. The organization seeks your assistance to rectify the situation and ensure the success of our dark lord's resurrection."

Hidan,knowing they missed their chance,told them it wont be anytime soon. At which the man started talking of a plan they were preparing,promising victory 

Hidan, his irritation reaching its peak, listened with growing impatience as the robed man detailed their next plan. The man, oblivious to Hidan's waning interest, continued to lay out their strategy, promising assured victory.

"Enough ! "

In a sudden burst of aggression, Hidan lunged forward, delivering a brutal kick to the robed man's face. The man yelped in pain, sprawled across the clearing.

"Your incompetence disgusts me! I don't need to hear about your pathetic plans.Loser trash ! "

"Forgive me, Hidan-sama. I assure you, the next plan will—"

"Save it. You'll earn Lord Jashin's favor by punishing yourself for ten days in the torture room. And don't you dare show your face until you've hunted down a group of monks for our lord's glory."

The robed man, now both terrified and battered, nodded fervently, knowing that failure in Hidan's eyes was a Sin in itself. Hidan, leaving him to contemplate his impending ordeal, sauntered away, reveling in the anticipation of chaos and bloodshed to come.

As the robed man left to fulfill his penance, Hidan turned to the silent woman, his expression cold. 

"How's your task progressing?"

"Contact established. Preparations in the designated country are nearly complete."

Hidan's twisted grin widened, and a maniacal laughter echoed through the secluded location. It seemed as if he was communing with his lord Jashin. With fervor in his voice, Hidan proclaimed in a booming tone:

"Rejoice! The gift from my servant will soon be delivered to you, my lord Jashin!"

As the laughter subsided, Hidan's expression shifted to one of disdain. He felt the approach of Kakuzu, and with a scowl, he turned to face his fellow Akatsuki member.

Kakuzu,holding a bag of money,gave a snort of disdain

"Finally done with your ritualistic nonsense?"

"Time means nothing when it comes to serving my lord Jashin. You should learn some devotion, Kakuzu."

Kakuzu, his gaze fixed on the bag of money, responded to Hidan's irritation with a scoff.

"Time is money, Hidan. A resource not to be squandered in nonsense."

Unfazed by Kakuzu's stance, Hidan turned back to the woman and tossed her a mysterious red stone. The woman's reaction was visibly joyful, and Hidan, with a sinister chuckle, instructed her.

"Use that stone wisely. Don't disappoint me."

The woman saluted in acknowledgment before disappearing into a mist of blood, leaving an eerie ambiance in her wake. Still amused by his own thoughts, Hidan faced Kakuzu, his partner in the Akatsuki, and the two prepared for their dark endeavors.