Kakashi joined the group, his expression composed. "Well done, Team 7. Lady Matsumoto, are you unharmed?" he inquired, ensuring the safety of their mission's focal point. The lady nodded, her gratitude evident.
"Thank to your student,kakashi-san "
Kakashi, observing the situation, concluded that it should be the last attack, especially since they were approaching the capital, and the city guards would likely detect any commotion. looking at the unconscious leader, he remarked,
"This could be a valuable opportunity to gather information about their plans and motives."
The lady, however, shook her head, "I recognize him as one of my uncle's loyalists. He won't talk, and even if he did, my suspicions are clear.Beside,my father was already suspicious of him,having sent to me enough materiel in a case like this "
Naruto, ever eager, chimed in, "What do we do now? Should we just tie him up and carry on?"
Sakura, eyeing the situation with caution, added, "We need to be prepared for anything. If they're targeting you, Lady Matsumoto, we might face more challenges ahead."
The lady, her gaze firm, decided, "We continue to the capital. Once we're closer, I'll deal with him and put an end to this."
The team, acknowledging her decision, pressed on, realizing that the political intrigue surrounding Lady Matsumoto's family was far from over.
As Team 7 and Lady Matsumoto's convoy approached the outskirts of the capital, they were met by Lady Matsumoto's loyal retainers, awaiting her return,not far from them,the city guard,asking on the matter of the commotion,stood in silence after the butler shown his lady noble symbol,and getting a salute from the guard giving an apology.
The seasoned samurai, his blade resting at his side, stepped forward with a deep bow."Lady Matsumoto, we are relieved to see you unharmed.we apologies for not being the one to protect you and meet you halfway "
Turning to team 7,he added "These must be the shinobi you entrusted with your safety."
Lady Matsumoto, offering a stern smile, introduced Team 7.
"Indeed, these are the skilled shinobi of Konoha. They have proven their dedication to my safety during our journey."
The seasoned samurai, eyeing the group, recognized Kakashi's distinctive presence.
"Kakashi Hatake, the famed Copy Ninja. Your reputation precedes you. The latter lord has spoken highly of your capabilities."
Kakashi, acknowledging the samurai's recognition, replied modestly. "I appreciate the late lord's high opinion,I pray for his resting soul,may he be blessed in the pure land "
"Thank you "
"We are here to ensure her safe passage through the city,may I ask for your names ?"
"Jinpachi "
The skilled priest, standing alongside the samurai, offered a respectful nod.
"May the kami bless your journey. Lady Matsumoto, your well-being is of utmost importance." Turning to kakashi,he told him his name
"Kaien of the fire temple "
As the convoy entered the capital under the watchful eyes of Lady Matsumoto's retainers, Kakashi discreetly exchanged information with the seasoned samurai
"Kakashi-san, I'm deeply grateful for what you did for my lady. I didn't expect that the landslide was man-made. I shudder to think what would have happened to my lady if not for your team "
Kakashi, scanning the surroundings, shared his observations
"No need for so many thanks,we are just doing our best as shinobi of Konoha "
Turning to his team,he said "The city seems calm, but appearances can be deceiving. While it's the capital,and only the most insane would dare provoque anything,We should remain vigilant as we walk toward our destination "
The priest, attuned to spiritual energies, added his perspective
"I sense an undercurrent of spiritual unrest. Let us tread carefully, for unseen forces may attempt to disrupt Lady Matsumoto's return."
Getting into the city,the team didnt hide their admiration for the beautiful and rich looking landscape.Sakura commenting,she said it such a gorgeous place
"What a beautifull place "
"It is. Sadly we have no time to appreciate it "
The lady, now in the heart of the city, received news that her uncle was hosting a gathering at their family estate. Determined to confront him and put an end to the threat once and for all, she requested Team 7's to make haste.
As they approached the estate, Lady Matsumoto, her expression a mix of determination and sadness, shared a private conversation with Naruto. She revealed the history of her family's internal strife and her uncle's quest for power,on how her uncle always wished he was born the elder,being the one inheriting the land at her father's place.the butler on her side,sadly commented
"it's such a shame on how greed can push people "
Arriving at their estate in the capital,Lady Matsumoto's uncle, a bald old man cloaked in false warmth, welcomed them into the opulent halls of the estate. His demeanor, though seemingly amiable, couldn't mask the undercurrents of deceit that Kakashi keenly sensed. The room, adorned with rich tapestries, became a stage for the impending confrontation.
"Welcome, My dear niece, and esteemed guests. What a joyous occasion to have you back. I trust your journey was uneventful?"
Lady Matsumoto, her expression a mask of composure, cut through the pleasantries.
"Uncle Kamiya, there's no need for pretenses. We know it was you who orchestrated the attacks during our journey. What are your motives?"
The air grew thick with tension as Lady Matsumoto's retainers eyed the uncle with suspicion, and Team 7 observed the unfolding drama with focused intensity.
"Attacks, my dear niece? I'm hurt you would accuse your own flesh and blood. I assure you, I have nothing but the family's best interests at heart."
Kakashi, sharing a silent glance with the old butler, knew better than to trust the uncle's words.
"Lady Matsumoto, perhaps we should discuss this matter privately."
The lady, determined, shook her head.
"No, Kakashi-san. It's time everything is brought to light. Uncle, your schemes won't go unnoticed any longer. The safety of our family and of my brother is at stake."
The uncle, knowing he was cornered,and feeling too lazy to bother, revealed a sinister smile.
"My dear niece, you should have stayed in Konoha. But rest assured, I only seek to build something great. The family's prosperity is a shared responsibility, after all."
"its not like you can prove anything against me "
Lady Matsumoto, undeterred by her uncle's deceit, presented a compelling array of evidence and witness accounts. The room's atmosphere became charged with tension, reaching its climax as the uncle, now unmasked in his sinister intentions, revealed the depths of his ambition to control the family's assets and influence.
"Enough lies, Uncle. The evidence speaks for itself. Your attempts to harm me and seize control will not go unanswered."
"What a shame,you should have died on the road "
"We will beat you and seek to make it right "
The uncle, no longer able to maintain his facade, sneered.
"You underestimate me, dear niece. The family's wealth and power rightfully belong to one who can ensure its prosperity. I am merely correcting an imbalance."
"Men,around me "
The retainers, loyal to Lady Matsumoto, showing indigned faces, ready to defend their lady and the family's legacy. Team 7, though new to this intricate family drama, understood the gravity of the situation,all took out their arms
Kakashi, maintaining his calm demeanor, addressed the uncle.
"Ambition should never come at the expense of family bonds. Lady Matsumoto's leadership has proven to be just and wise. Your actions only bring dishonor to the Matsumoto name."
Lady Matsumoto, her eyes reflecting both sadness and determination, spoke resolutely.
"Uncle, you leave me with no choice. I will protect our family's honor and ensure its prosperity, but it won't be through your treacherous path."
"Kakashi-san,take him down "
"Take me down ? Ha ! Power belongs to those who can seize it. Your father's death merely opened an opportunity for the stronger to rise." Her uncle,giving a signal for his own men,all ready to fight.
"Kill them ! "
The room erupted into a confrontation, with Team 7 leaping into action to protect their client.
The battle against her uncle's forces unfolded, each member of Team 7 showcasing their skills. Naruto's clones engaged the enemies, Sasuke displayed his taijutsu prowess,and Sakura provided support.
Kakashi this time faced off against all the skilled adversaries, making easy work of them, seemingly done with taking it easy.
The lady main samurai took on her uncle directly, their clash of swords echoing the complex history of their family. The fight intensified as the uncle, resorting to underhanded tactics, revealed his sinister nature. Trying to capture the lady,he got kicked in the face by one Naruto clone,finally losing.
In the end, Lady Matsumoto's unwavering determination prevailed. With the support of Team 7 and her loyal retainers, she defeated her uncle, putting an end to the internal strife that had plagued her family.
Lady Kaguya, her eyes reflecting both relief and sorrow, turned to Team 7 with a deep bow of gratitude. "I cannot thank you enough for your bravery and loyalty. You've protected and helped me expose the treachery within my family, and for that, I am truly grateful."
Kakashi, ever calm, responded, "It was our duty, Lady Matsumoto. We're glad we could assist you."
Sasuke, his usual stoic expression softened, unusually added, "Don't let your guard down. Betrayal may come from the most unexpected person "
Lady Matsumoto nodded, acknowledging the reality of her situation. "I understand. There's much to rebuild within my family, but your actions have given me the strength to face it."
Naruto, scratching his head, chimed in, "No problem! We're friends, and friends stick together. Right ? "
"You are right.Im glad i have a friend like you,Naruto "
Sakura, with a warm smile, said, "If you ever need our help again, Lady Matsumoto, don't hesitate to ask."
The city guards, having restored order, approached Lady Matsumoto to ensure her safety.
"I cannot thank you enough for helping me reclaim my family's honor. You've proven yourselves true friends and protectors."
With the threat neutralized, Lady Matsumoto extended an invitation to Team 7, inviting them to stay as guests in her estate and offering them a place of honor in her family's estate
Getting invited for a celebratory banquet,Kakashi turned her down,citing the need to go back and report quickly the changing parameters.Kakashi then turned to his team, signaling that their mission was complete.
Lady Matsumoto, expressing her deep gratitude and recognizing the hidden message in the denial, decided to still show her appreciation through thoughtful gifts,not wishing to see them go empty handed.
To Kakashi, she presented an ancient scroll containing a rare literacy collection from her family's archives, a gesture acknowledging his wisdom.
"Oh my,now thats something rare "
"Its the least for your effort,hatake-sama "
For Sakura, she gifted a beautifully crafted medicinal kit, adorned with intricate designs, symbolizing the importance of healing and support.
"A small token,so you can care for your team "
Sasuke received an unique sword, a family heirloom renowned for its sharpness, signifying Lady Matsumoto's recognition of his skills in combat.
"That was on of my father favored blade during his youth,i hope it can serve you well "
Naruto, to his surprise, received a pendant with the symbol of Lady Matsumoto's family, a token of her trust and a promise of friendship.
"Huh ? what is this ? "
"Something very important,I hope you can cherish it "
"Really ?! Thank a lot,pretty lady ! "
Kakashi, seeing the token,gave a pensive expression,asked the butler if his lady is sure about it,and that those kinds of token weigh a lot around some circles. The butler just smiled "Heroes are worth befriending..I have a feeling that this kid gonna be great one day "
"What a troublesome matter.."
Kakashi,giving a sigh,told Naruto to not lose it,and to better appreciate the gesture. Naruto, thought confused,just gave a grin,raising his thumb
"You got it ! "
These gifts not only reflected Lady Matsumoto's appreciation but also established a connection between Team 7 and the noble family, binding them through shared experiences and mutual respect.
As they walked away from the scene, Naruto whispered to Sasuke, "Man, that was intense. But hey, we saved the day!"
Sasuke, though not one for grand gestures, simply nodded in agreement.
Kakashi,giving a sigh "Well, that was quite a mission. Didn't expect it to turn into a family drama."
Naruto, with a grin, nodded "Yeah, and I thought it was just about escorting someone important. Not dealing with traitorous uncles and all that."
Sakura, recalling the intensity of the confrontation, chimed in "Lady Matsumoto is strong, though. I'm glad we could help her."
Kakashi,sensing the occasion to share some life advice, added his perspective.
"Life has a way of surprising us. Sometimes, even a seemingly routine mission can unravel hidden complexities."
Sasuke, crossing his arms, smirked. "Well, at least it wasn't boring."
Naruto, with a laugh, agreed. "Yeah, definitely not boring. I wonder what kind of mission we'll get next."
As they continued their journey, the experiences of this mission lingered in their thoughts.