Chương 44: Chapter 44

Complete indifference to everything that was around him, a slightly bored look covering the parts of his face that was visible; that is how Shion could describe what he was seeing of the Emperor. Even with countless bodies all around him, blood sputtered around, he looked as though it was nothing. Not even a drop of blood touched him, even when he didn't appear to mind where his feet touched. But she could not deny the power of his, it was almost omnipotent. The rumors were not far fetched, he had no peers, no friends when it came to power.

But then again, things were made a lot easier because he was dealing with weaker shinobi and merceneries than he usually does.

He hadn't even arrived into the country for more than an hour and he'd already eradicated all connections to the mercenry group which was after her person. He'd destroyed all camps, all missin-nin surrounding her place of residents after her men had been defeated. He defeated everyone without even seeming like he was trying. It looked as though he was being forced to punish misbaving children. He certainly looked down on her enemies, and didn't even consdier them to be worth anything to even bother to attempt striking a conversation with them - he'd simply dealt with them without even a word to them.

Shion had always known of his power, and much more about his personality, but she'd never been quite close to him like this before. The so-called self-serving, arrogant and evil emperor was walking towards her, all alone. His white kimono flashing through the dead bodies, without being defiled by anything - something she took curiosoity in.

With the bodies a back ground, and her person close by, the Emperor spoke, his expression changing as he did. ''It isn't healthy for the Priestess to see such a scene,'' he said, suddenly and a great blaze of black flames lit up around the ground, burning everything that was bloody. Still, he didn't seem to take interest in it. Even when the flames suddenly disappeared, leaving nothing but an unclothed ground.

''There isn't much of a choice for me in the matter, really,'' shion said calmly. She chose not to comment on what just happened as he didn't seem like he was sparring it much of a thought. But then again, she couldn't even begin to guess what was going on inside his head.

''There is always a choice, Priestess,'' Naruto stated, finally reaching her. ''Life is a choice, everything is a choice once you're born into this world. You chose to stand here, nobody dragged you, nobody would've said otherwise if you'd chosen to remain hidden somewhere in a burrow,'' he walked past her, moving into her compound.

Shion followed him behind, ''what i meant to say was that I was bound by duty,'' the woman corrected herself. ''Though I am grateful for the save, I don't think that you came all the way here just to save me; you have people for that,'' she stated.

''Must I always be second guessed in everything I do?'' the Emperor paused for a moment, waiting for something. Sasuke then flashed behind the two.

''I see you've already cleaned up everything,'' the Uchiha said walking up to catch the two. He didn't bother sparring the remaining of Shion's forces a look as he went towards the priest and the Emperor. They were of no interest, so why bother. ''Well, I should have expected that,'' but that still begged the question why he was even here in the first place. He didn't seem like he wanted to come to this place when he told him to help clean up the mess.

''You were supposed to take her away to the capital,'' Naruto stated. He had specifically told the Uchiha to take the woman out of her country to take her back to his palace, as he had foreseen matters like this happening.

''She didn't want to,'' Sasuke responded with a shrug of his shoulders. ''Besides, it would have caused an outrage from her people if I had taken her away by force,'' the Uchiha added calmly. He wasn't at least concerned about the disregard of Naruto's orders as it wasn't the first time things didn't go as planned, but he always got the job done.

''I guess, but they could have been made to understand things perfectly. Their priestess was under our protection and if we offering protection decide to take her away to a safe place, they should understand as they are unable to do what is expected of them,'' Naruto said, not minding the fact that the very men he was speaking of could hear him.

''Yes, but leaving the place alone without her would have been disastrous as they might have destroyed this place because their target was now gone,'' Sasuke defended his choice.

They were talking like she wasn't hearing them or even present. Shion found it to make her feel otherwise, irrite to be precise. How could they discuss her matter like she had no say in anything they were talking about? It was her life and she could decide on her own where she wanted to be for her protection, and she certainly didn't think there was a need for her to be dragged into the Rice when she only needed Naruto to remove the thorn in her side.

''I am still around, you know.''

''Hmm?'' Naruto's eyes turned to her for a moment. ''That wasn't forgotten, but it isn't really polite to speak about such a matter without consulting you first,'' he may be offering Security and protection, but he did have to consult with her on how to handle some matters, especially when talking about removing her from her home. Still, given first choice to act, he would have just removed her without asking. A bit hypocritcal after sprouting nonsense about there being a choice in everything.

It amused him that he could find faults in his sayings, yet even when he knew he would deny her a choice, it didn't bother him a bit. He preached a gospel he didn't act. Well, he did have a choce in everything, he wasn't just offering other people the same courtesy. Oh well, who cares?

''I doubt even if I had said I wanted to stay that would have made a difference,'' Shion responded calmly, leading the two men into her home. There wasn't any doubt that this man did whatever that he pleased and wanted, without regards to what anyone thought. Yet, she still called him for help.

''Most likely,'' Sasuke added with a small nod, not a hint of disdain to imply he wouldn't agree with it. If he hand't found it bothersome to drag the woman to the capital city of the Rice country, he would have done so.

''Before we even get to that, would you have even chosen to stay in this place if a way out was given?'' Naruto asked a questioned which Shion didn't respond to. ''You have grown from being that ungrateful child you used to be, but you're still the same person.''

Ah, there goes the civil conversation, Sasuke thought midly. Naruto may have changed a little. But he still didn't really check on who he was talking to before opening his mouth. He found no problem in insulting anyone. He guessed it was a good thing that he was never involved in peace talks; he would ruin them beyond repair. But it is to be expected for the man never to change his tone. He does view himself to be superior to anyone.

''Is it wise to speak to me like that when you've obviously come for something from me?'' Shion asked, rather nicely. While she found no insult in his words, she would appreciate for him to speak to her in a respectful manner, both of them were leaders after all.

''What I require from you is your services, but it is nothing that is of a need to say that I would actually beg, or feel the need to 'humble' myself before you, Lady Shion.'' He basically told her he wanted her services but didn't actually need them. ''But there is such a thing as free-will, I wouldn't want to do anything to take that away from you. Everyone loves free-will after all.''

Well, that he was telling the truth, Sasuke thought mildly. Naruto was many things, but he didn't actually force people to do what he wanted or manupulated or blackmail people to get things done in every turn. He did consider the 'choice' first before acting. That isn't to say he wouldn't snap her neck if there was a need to do so, and he would do so without even being remorseful. Sasuke had never seen anyone who could be so indifferent towards death like Naruto. He was sure the man wouldn't even cry if anyone he cares for died.

Then again, would he cry? That remained to be seen.

''You're aren't much of a convincer. With the way you speak, I can't be convinced or persuaded to offer my services to you,'' and it didn't help what people say about him.

''I see no need to persuade anyone to do anything. Whether you want to do something or not, that is your choice, I don't have to smooth talk things. You like something or you don't.'' It was easy as that. Why color things when they could be put as they are?

Shion shook her head and refused to comment any further. ''It has been a rather long day for me, so I will just show you where to rest for the night. We will talk tomorrow.'' She had been working her mind since the day began, she was really tired. She'd actually never worked her mind as much as she did today.

Later

Sasuke had the time to raise a brow when he found Naruto sitting on the rooftop of Shion's compound, head facing up, and unblinking, as well as unmoving. It almost seemed like he was caught up in a daze. Tonight was one of those nights where it was clear as day with the full moon brightening up the night while its cold breath brought forth a cool breeze. There only reason the bandits had even stayed up late in their attacks was because of the full moon. It was really rare in this world, for the moon to light up so brightly.

''Passing sentimental thoughts?'' Sasuke asked, curiousity dripping through his tone. He was really curious. This was a rare moment for the other Uchiha. A behavior like this could be compared to his liking of the Hokage monument in Konoha.

Naruto turned his neck to look at Sasuke, ''do I look like a sentimental fool to you?'' Sasuke merely shrugged in response before settling down. ''I wonder what Hagoromo and Hamura are thinking up there. They must be having one hell of a discussion to light up the moon like this...''

Although he wondered who Hamura was, Sasuke didn't ask. ''And you wish you where right in the middle of it, offering your own thoughts while the Sage disagreed with them by giving his own reasons based on his perception of you.'' Sasuke shook his head, removing the image. ''Where else are you going to visit before returning to the Capital?''

''Hmm,'' Naruto had turned away from Sasuke, so he just turned his eye balls, ''do you wish to move behind me, Sasuke? What would Kakashi think if it becomes known that you were acting as my protector?''

Sasuke shrugged. ''It isn't like you care, and I don't. So there is no point on fretting over it,'' he said. ''So?''

''Nadeshiko, Kiri, and Springs,'' Naruto said. Though, he may visit Kurotsuchi just to see how things play out. He was a bit surprised that Sasuke would choose to move about with him though. But considering that the Uchiha doesn't care what people think of him, it shouldn't be much of a surprise.

''Nadeshiko will be tomorrow, then around noon it is Kiri. The day that follows will be springs,'' that was a good vacation. The springs had much things for leisure, and since he'd been working non-stop for as long as his memory can take him, he really needed some rest. ''Sounds like a plan. I'll send a clone to Konoha, just in case.''

''I never agreed to taking you with me,'' Naruto said, laying on his back.

Sasuke shrugged, standing up. ''I never asked for your permission,'' he said. ''Now, if you will excuse me, I will go to rest. That woman didn't even feed me. What a horrible house guest she is,'' the raven head Uchiha mumbled while walking away from Naruto.

Following morning

Breakfast was prepared early as the guests wanted to leave. For this reason, Shion was forced to wake up early and she found it to be frustrating. ''Shall we get on to it?'' It was Naruto who took the words out of her mouth.

''First of all, thank you for everything, both of you. Emperor,'' Shion started. ''I will forever be grateful that you saved my life. I will forward the payment I find to be worthy to your kingdom once everything has been settled.''

Naruto waved the hand in a dismissive manner. ''I don't require money for you, Priestess,'' he said. ''There is one way you can pay me though...'' he didn't say. ''On another matter, my men will arrive here before noon to clean up everything and upgrade your security. That will be completed for free.''

Although it sounded good to be true, Sasuke nodded to comfirm that the Emperor wasn't messing with her. Shion smiled brightly and bowed her head a little, ''Thank you, your Majesty,'' she returned to look at him before a rewind of his words played in head. ''Hold on a minute. What do you mean there is one way I can pay you?! You don't actually mean ''that'' do you?!''

A rare thing occured, both Uchiha's looked amused. ''What do you mean exactly by ''That?''' Sasuke gave the woman the 'look' which made made Shion feel like he was undressing her. ''Oh, you mean that. Yes, he means that.''

''What?!'' Shion raised her voice. ''There is no way I'm doing that!''

''Sasuke,'' Naruto called, ''you shouldn't make fun of her - she is inexperienced,'' he said. ''What I want from you is for you to offer a day once every month to the kingdom to work as a priest. There are people in the capital who have been misled to believe that there is a democratic leadership and have requested that a temple be built for them to worship.''

''You're indulging them?''

''Why not?'' Naruto threw in. ''The matter is trivial, and it is good to have them under the illsuion that they actually have a say in everything and their word means something. After all, the people are free when they believe their king is a peoples person. Everyone likes democracy, why not illusion one for them?''

Unknown location

''What is our mission again?'' A white masked Anbu asked as he sat down on a tree branch, overlooking the hidden entrance to an underground facility created by Karin. It had taken some time to find this place and its entrance. The only reason they were even able to find out of its existence was because of the comings and goings that occured on different time periods.

Beside him, where four other Anbu from Iwagakure. They were commanded by their leader, the Tsuchikage, to come to this place and strip it of its valuables. Karin was rumored to be developing weapons behind the Emperors back, and they knew exactly what it was that the woman was creating in this facility - there were more of them than this one, but this one interested the Tsuchikage the most.

Since they weren't expecting too many guards to be in this place, Onoki had only ordered the five of them for this mission. Given that they were Anbu, they could complete the mission effectively and efficiently without leaving too much and wasting too much time. Storming into the facility wasn't possible given all the security surrounding the place: they'd studied the surrounding for weeks before setting out. And had managed to get someone in the inside to work with them.

''You already know the mission parameters, why do you ask again?'' the leader of the team asked, a bit annoyed at the question since they'd been through this already.

''I don't think he is capable of completing this mission,'' another Anbu said. He too didn't feel comfortable with doing the mission, but orders where orders, and they were Anbu, their emotions didn't have to get in the way. Still, even if they were a unit that specialized in S-rank missions, some missions they could pass.

''Look, we signed up for this when we became Anbu. Now isn't the time to question things,'' another said.

''I signed up to completing corvert missions that help secure the village and deal with any threats. I signed up to working in the shadows to ensure that Iwagakure was safe from everything, but killing innocents has never been something that I was ever tasked to do and it surely is something that I never thought that I would be forced to do,'' White said again, a bit strongly.

The problem wasn't just the act of killing innocents, it was just the number of innocents they had to kill. He could do with one or two, but when we spoke of hundreds innocent people who knew nothing, done nothing, he drew the line. Onoki had never ordered them to do something like this before, he never crossed the line he was crossing now. Was the Emperor that much of a threat that he was willing to do everything that was unacceptable just to win against him?

No one could deny the fact that the Emperor was indeed powerful, but so far he never threatened Iwagakure or any village for that matter. It was understandable that he would seek to destroy Konoha after what they did to him. But he'd never threatened any village, he minded his business as his empire continued to grow. Why was the Tsuchikage so bent on starting a war with the man? Why couldn't he just leave things as they were?

As an Anbu, White had never been disgusted with the job, but this kind of mission they were given disgusted him. Hell, he wouldn't even be surprised if the Emperor storms into their village after they complete the mission. He wouldn't fault the man for attacking, but he would still have to fight in order to protect his village.

Such a fucked up world they were living in...

''Orders are orders man,'' the leader of the group said. ''Our insider won't be coming out in four hours. Let us first go to complete this mission that you're all making a fuss about. Then we can return here to conclude things. After which, we will return home.''

''The sooner we do this the better. Regardless of how much we dislike this, we're still going to do it: it is our mission and an order from the Tsuchikage. We're not in a position to question orders, but to follow them,'' admittedly, even he didn't like the mission, but they had to do it.

''You all know your tagets, and this stage, it shouldn't take time for us to complete the mission. You all got to make sure you hit your target. The Tsuchikage was very clear about this: if you don't complete your mission, don't return.''

Unless you wanted to be hunted down and disciplined for insurbodination, you had to follow through the mission. At the state of mind the Tsuchikage was in, he would probably label anyone who doesn't succeed in the mission a traitor, and once you were called a traitor, it was either death or the cold cells of the Anbu. These were the kind of times one wished the Tsuchikade would just listen to Kurotsuchi when she tried speaking some sense into him.

''Let us just do this and get over with it. Besides, we only have a short window frame to succeed here or that woman will know,'' the leader said. ''Let us rendeszous in an two hours for the next stage of the mission.''

''Hai!''

Kirigakure

''You do this on purpose, don't you?'' Sasuke asked as he walked through the streets of Kiri with Naruto beside him, heading towards the Mizukage tower. ''You just want to create a buzz over your appearance in the village. You did the same in Suna and you're doing it again.''

''I find the attention they offer me appealing. Every now and then, I wish to bask in the praises, and looks of adoration they offer to the Emperor,'' Naruto responded quietly.

Sasuke rolled his eyes, ''Like you care for something like that,'' he said. ''You're not here for them or to see how they react when th-''

''Sasuke,'' Naruto said, cutting off the Uchiha. ''Don't analyze everything I do or say. While it is occasionally fun seeing you try to work out the reasons behind some of my actions, I also find it annoying when you start analyzing everything I do like I do don't poitnless things just for the sake of it.''

Sasuke shook his head before speaking. ''I'm going to find something to entertain me for the night ahead,'' that meant he would be seeing the Emperor in the morning. ''You should do something entertaining as well...'' The Uchiha disappeared after saying those words.

Naruto didn't take more then five steps before Ao came up to him. The Jonin offered to lead him to the Mizukage's tower. Seeing that he'd spoken too much yesterday and this day with Sasuke, Naruto didn't indulge much in the Jonin's attempt for conversation: he chose to enjoy the view of the village that hails him as a hero more than his own country. These people really did adore him. Well, he did save them during the civil war: he'd basically ended the war by himself.

Perhaps a part of him liked to see them smile and beam in joy when they see their hero walk amongst them. Even though he was now the Emperor and reining supreme over the Rice, their behavior towards him hadn't change. To them, he was still the same boy who saved them a few years ago.

''I would like it if you tell me prior your visit that you're going to come so that I can prepare things for you,'' Mei said, sitting behind her desk, as soon as Naruto walked into her office.

''Why should I do that? What do you need to be prepare for? Are you perhaps seeing someone behind the Emperor's back?'' Naruto asked, he didn't sit down though. He chose to remain standing, just away from Mei's desk as he wasn't here to stay.

''Who knows? Maybe I am? If the Emperor doesn't look after his things, then someone will take them away and make use of them...'' Mei said in a careless tone, and a shrug.

''I doubt there is any men who would dare defy the Emperor in that manner, lest he wishes for a horriying death,'' Naruto said. ''Leave a clone behind so we can get out of here.''

Mei folded her hands across her chest. ''I'm busy. If you didn't know, I am a Kage and have certain responsibilities I must honor.'' She kept her poker face as she spoke.

''The Emperor commands it.''

The Mizukage smiled, ''Well, why didn't you start with that?'' She said standing up. The Fifth Kage in Kiri walked up to Naruto, took his right hand, and rubbed shoulders with him as she leaned closer. ''So, where are you taking me, husband?'' she asked, leading him out of the office.

Imperial Palace

Karin had never been ''sumoned'' to the Imperial palace before, Naruto had never as much as demanded her presence before him. From what she gathered, he had cut short his travels around the Elemental Nations because something had come up. She didn't know what the problem was, but it sounded really important that the man had decided to summon her into his presence, His messenger had been rather foreceful even when he could see that she was busy with her work. Who liked being interrupted while doing groundbreaking research?

''Do you wish for me to tell the Emperor that you said you were too busy to honor his summons?'' That man had so smugly questioned.

She knew he only said that on purpose because the Emperor wouldn't be pleased if she refused to see him because she was too busy. No one was ever busy for him. When he summoned you, you had to be there. It didn't matter if you were busy on top of a guy riding him tirelessy: when the Emperor called you on a serious note, especially when he sent his messenger, you had to be there.

Karin has seen so many of Naruto's faces. While he usually wears the mask of indifference or just complete boredom while sitting on his throne, he had his moments of smiles, amusing remarks, and then there were those moments he reminded you that he was Uchiha Naruto, the Emperor of the biggest Empire in the Elemental Nations and the strongest shinobi.

As far as she was concerned, she hadn't done anything wrong to that would warrant his call, not yet anyway. Her secret activies couldn't be counted because they were secret. Naruto permitted her to do a lot of things. One would say he spoiled her, especially when she was still living in the Rice Country, but he had his moments where she could forget that he had become the man she had to call brother and just remember him as the man who killed Orochimaru and had her running scared just by sensing his chakra.

When Karin walked into the Imperial Hall, she found his royal subjects, Konan and Sasuke standing just away from the Emperor, who was on his Emperor pose, expression pure blank. This really made her nervous because she didn't know what he may be displeased with, or what may have gone wrong. Had he found out what she did in her secret labs? Nothing in her experiments had gone wrong because she always tested everything to ensure that it was safe to be used before transporting it back to motherland.

''I have arrived, your Majesty,'' Karin did a quick bow in show of the customery respect. ''I left all my work as quickly as I was told my presence was needed,'' she had recited this so many times while preparing to face the man she hadn't seen in a few months. When you didn't know where you stood with him, you had to be on the cautious side of things.

''Apparently,'' that was the Emperor's reply.

Ah, that said it: she was screwed.

Could he have found out about her secret work? She had done everything she could do to hide it, and even thoguh he'd told her not to make weapons, she had continued on to do so because she liked creating them. She wasn't planning on using them, but she just had them created because she had the resources, knowledge and power to do so. She just wanted to create something that she could marvel at.

Karin narrowed her eyes at Konan who was standing firmly on her right then Sasuke on her left: both were wearing unreadable expressions and she couldn't tell anything by their chakra as both were calm. ''Sasuke,'' she put on a nervous smile, greeting the raven haired Uchiha. ''Konan,'' she acknowledged the blue haired's presence before looking back at the Emperor.

There was really nothing that Naruto could do that would surprise Sasuke: really, he expected everything from the Emperor. However, he was a little surprised when the man cut off their travels without so much as an explanation. They'd been forced to return here, and he called upon Konan as soon as he returned. Konan had only arrived into the country recently.

''Is there anyone we're waiting for?'' Sasuke asked.

''No,'' Naruto said.

''What is the emergency then?'' Konan asked. She didn't really need a heavy load of work to do when she just arrived. Considering how big the country was, she would be having much to do, but that needed settling, and she hadn't settled yet.

The fact that these two didn't seem to know anything about this meeting didn't make Karin feel any better. She'd asked Guren before getting here, but the woman didn't know anything either, even that messenger who brought her here didn't tell her anything. But there was no way he didn't know. Karin braced herself when she looked the Emperor carefully: his chakra was calm, as always, and he seemed to be going through some thoughts.

As Heisuke would say, ''he isn't thinking about anything, but just a mask he likes wearing to give you some hope.''

''It appears that my time in the sidelines is over,'' Naruto started. That was nothing more than a shot gun bullet that punched through the heavy load she was carrying. ''Five of this Kingdom's trains were destroyed early this morning, a ship heading towards the Water country has gone off radar: it is likely that it was destroyed as well; a section of the Great Imperial Wall was destroyed along the Fang's borders, and this allowed some insects to get into the country. The City of Sound was partly destroyed in the west sections. Fortunately enough the fools were caught before they could do further damage...''

Silence settled in as they all bittely welcomed the news.

The trains from the Imperial Kingdom carried atmost 100 people, and if five were destroyed, they were looking at casualities of about plus or minus five hundred people. Sasuke didn't think that anyone would go that far to kill innocents just like that. Naruto kept a close eye on his trains so it is given that they were destroyed while doing their rounds outside the Rice country. The Uchiha assumed that if the same detonations as the one used on Naruto, then there couldn't be any survivors.

The Great Imperial Wall was a huge wall created by the Empeor, taking him up to three months to build it. The wall surrounded the country, going through along its orders. These walls weren't just normal walls: they were huge, bigger than the ones Konoha used to have before it was destroyed. The walls made it impossible for anyone to pass through any section within the country. This meant that no army would attack them at any side, and since only six gates were created along the walls, everyone could be checked while entering or leaving the country.

Each gate was heavilly guarded and Sasuke didn't think of anything that could be capable of destroying the Great walls though. Naruto had created impenetranable walls in the old Konoha when he didn't want anyone leaving the village. The only thing that had prove enough damage was a swing from a perfect Susano'os blade, and if he or Obito didn't do it, then that ruled out Susano'o. So what destroyed the wall?

''This is troubling...'' Konan said. ''Were there any casualities in the City of Sound?'' The City didn't have more than two years in existence. She could remember the day Naruto prosposed the idea to build another city to control migration into the capital. The City was created as another place overflowing with life and riches. Another perfect place to live.

''No,'' the Emperor said. ''The forces were able to evacuate people into safety before anything could happen. The weapon they were using proved to be too powerful for the Imperial Forces to act rashly,'' Karin visibly flinched at that but Naruto looked at Sasuke, ''I just wanted you to know what is happening. From now on, your services will no longer be required. Your contract has been terminated: the Emperor will handle things.''

So he was no longer needed, Sasuke thought mildly. Oh well, this gave him a chance to settle things in Konoha and put more focus in ensuring that the village was secure. The only reason these unknown people had been bold enough to attack was because Naruto no longer took any part in battles and rumors start surfacing that perhaps he'd grown weak. If Naruto was going to handle things, then it meant he was going to crush all foolish thoughts of defeating his kingdom.

''Can you at least tell me who?''

''In due time,'' that was the only response Sasuke was given before Naruto turned to Karin. The Uchiha knew he was dismissed, and so he left the presence of the Emperor.

In many ways, that dismall was rather cold, especially given how Sasuke had served the Emperor. There wasn't even a thank you, but a termination of contract and these words: you've served your usefullness, return to Konoha. Things happening now on were no longer the Uchiha's concern. Even so, Sasuke didn't seem disturbed by it. It was as it he had been-

''Karin,'' the voice of the Emperor cut off the Uzumaki's train of thoughts. ''When I sternly tell you to stop making weapons, I fully expect you to. But you've disobeyed me. Do you know what your disobedienace has cost me?''

karin couldn't find the words to respond to the Emperor. When Naruto actually used the word obidence, it was something serious. There were many instances that his subjects improvised his orders, and someone like Sasuke sometimes outright ignored them. Naruto never used that word. Perhaps it was because they always brought good results. It wasn't that Naruto only cared for results, he was just in a state of mind were he was willing to permit it. However, he wasn't happy when things turned bad, like now.

''I assume Iwagakure finally got its hands on that weapon,'' it would explain how the Great Wall had been breached. The kind of weapon those people were looking for from one of Karin's facilities, specifically the one in Shimogakure, was powerful enough to destroy a village. It only required large amounts of chakra for activation, anything less than Kage-level coudln't activate it.

''Indeed they have,'' Naruto said. ''However, we've managed to retrieve it. But the damage has already been done. Since they raided the facility, and took her subjects, they can rebuilt it again. I can slow them down by blocking purchases of materials needed. In due time, I will however, have to invade Iwa for this action.''

Konan understood it well that she didn't even have to question. If the weapon was build and taken to any village, it would inevitanly mean there would be loss. Naruto's choice of destroying the thing before it leaves Iwagakure insured that there would be no casualities on his part, but however, sparked war with Iwagakure.

''They have to be punished for the lives they've already taken,'' Konan said. ''However, even though the attack was stopped, this has left a hole and a clear message: the Emperor isn't invincible after all.''

''Yes,'' Naruto looked at Karin. ''Go to Iwagakure now, and demand your things. Tell Onoki that I will eventually visit him and lay siege in his village for provoking me.''

''What?!'' Karin couldn't believe it. ''There is a high chance that they will kill me once I get there, or even take me as hostage while forcing me to build them more weapons.''

''Lower your voice, Karin,'' Naruto said. ''This is your mess, and I'm giving you a chance to clean it. I expect you to do as I say. Your weapons were used to kill innocent people, do you not feel the need the take up resonsibility? If not, I am willing to allow you to think things clearly in the dengeon.''

Karin gritted her teeth. At least she knew he wouldn't allow her to be killed but that didn't mean she wasn't scared. She wasn't looking forward to being sent into the dungeon either. ''At least send somone with me.''

''You created your weapons alone. You will go alone,'' Naruto started. ''Your train will leave in an hour. If you happen to miss it, I will drag you there myself. But that will come at a cost and I asure you that you don't want to come to that. Do we have an understanding, Karin?''

''Yes,'' the red haired Uzumaki said stiffly. Without saying another word, Karin humbly left the presence of the Emperor.

Konan wondered what Naruto's purpose was for sending Karin to Iwagakure when he knew the Tsuchikage wouldn't give her the things he stole or even apologize for stealing and the destruction he has caused. The Emperor did just say that he would invade Iwa and destroy a few things. So why even bother sending the woman? Could it be that he just wants to see what Onoki would do or he just wants Karin to know that she can't get away with doing things like this.

''The trouble that this will follow will cause things to spiral out of control and likely push the world into war sooner than anticipated,'' the new Prime Minister of the Imperial Kingdom stated after Karin had left.

''Yes, and this displeases me,'' Naruto said, you wouldn't know he was greatly displeased by the look on his face. ''More fools are going to step into the fray and attack the country at any given time. The trains won't even be safe anymore if things are like this.''

''What are we going to do then? I would suggest adding secuirity forces into the trains. The best case would be hiring the Hyuuga to have a single member in each train to search for explosives,'' she didn't have a problem in using the Hyuuga for the safety of the people. ''It is likely that Konoha won't take part in the upcoming war. It can't afford to fight, not after everything. Though things are a bit difficult between us and then, they are not in a point where we would want to fight them.''

''That seems likely,'' Naruto agreed. ''Do what you feel is right as the Prime Minister and I will make an example of Onoki: this will ward off some lurking insects. However, Konoha won't give you anything.''

''Why? Why wouldn't they if they won't get involved in the war?''

''Konoha as a whole won't get involved, because, as you said, they can't afford to. That doesn't mean they won't send their best. If they don't, they risk being attacked, and neither Kiri nor Suna will aid them.'' Naruto answered. ''I've told you not to prepare the forces because this coming war won't be like the previous wars. When I'm your opponent, sending hundreds of shinobi is a waste of human life as I'm only going to slaughter them.'' He paused before adding. ''You do what you must for the safety of the trains.''

Konan nodded, ''I will get preparations ready as soon as I settle in.''

The Emperor stood up from his throne, and walked towards Konan. He motioned for her to follow so he could lead her to the crystal palace. ''So, what have you been up too with Nagato?'' Naruto asked.

''Excuse me?''

''Amegakure has grown stronger, and it has become rather peaceful, but Nagato's dream has yet to be fulfilled: he must be growing impatiennt with me...''

Konan narrowed her eyes a bit. She didn't like it, but spoke the truth. ''Yes, he is, but he has been keeping himself busy repelling threats to Ame.''

''I see,'' Naruto said. ''I wonder what he will do when he is done. What do you think his impatience will lead him to? Obviously he has no faith in me achieving peace, and I don't intend to make things otherwise...''

''I don't know, but he says he will continue as he has been.''

Naruto merely put on that mask of indiference as they walked through the pasages of the large palace. Konan could read Nagato like a book, and she knew exactly what he would do next. Still, the Emperor didn't point that out to her, ''I see.''

Iwagakure

In more recent years, Onoki had never read a report that made him this happy. Yes he read good reports on the progress of the village as a whole and the military strength he was accumulating. For as long as Naruto rose to fame, Onoki had only dreamt of seeing the kind look the Emperor must be having now because of the little action he just took. There was no way the Empero was just going to shrug off this action as nothing and continue his every day life. This definately called his attention: the attack was a loud wake up call.

It would have been even more satisfying if he had been able to land a hit on the very den of the lion. Many nations would definately come to bow in order to join them. Unfortunately, with how far the Country was guarded, he was even lucky his men had been able to reach the City of Sound without being surrounded the the Imperial Army, or the Emperor himself. Reaching the Capital would require a large army, made of different platoons. He didn't have that now, but he hit the next best thing.

The City of Sound or so the City of Joy.

Even though he didn't hit the Capital city and his men got captured, the main fact is that he managed to land a hit on the Empire. It didn't matter if he hit the leg or hand, what mattered was that he had landed a hit. This was a feat that seemed so out of reach, impossible even, when that man rose to fame. When that man beat them, the Kages, Onoki had never been so hopeless. But now he had hope, he could smell victory a mile away.

He now knew that it was possible to invade even the Rice country. He had shown to the Elemental Nations that even he could attack the Emperor. Yes, Naruto was not so innvincible as other people thought he was. Konoha was too much of a chicken to attack him since its defeat in his hands, he couldn't even begin to guess what the Raikage was doing. But that man wasn't spineless and would certainly do what he wants to do.

''Was it really wise to provoke him like that?'' Kurotsuchi asked, lookking staright at her stubborn grandfather. The old man couldn't listen to reason, and this actions was a clear slap on Naruto's cheek and he was going to kindly return it, regardless. She didn't think that the Tsuchikage was powerful to stop an allout assault from the Emperor.

''Don't question my judgement, Kurotsuchi,'' Onoki responded sternly. ''I will do what I think is best for this village that I lead, and it is your duty to respect and support the choices I make as your Tsuchikage. I will no longer tolerate any more of your insurbodination!''

Starting from outright refusing some of the orders he gave, the black haired didn't seem to listen to anything he said these days, and it really frustrated him because she was his grandchild. He expected her of all people to be in his corner. But she believed that he was leading the village into a dark path and would one day regret the choice he is making. But Onoki wasn't going to regret anything, he was going to die with a smile.

If Kurotsuchi had the heart, she would have already plotted to oust him as Tsuchikage. Of course some people would support those kind of thoughts because she knew that not everyone wanted to start a war with someone who didn't appear as though he was going to fight anyone. As testified by these past years, the Emperor was minding his own business, and others believed they should mind their business, so did Kurostcuchi. However, Onoki couldn't.

''I will not support what I do not agree with. Call me what you want old man, but this is foolishness and you will regret it one day,'' Kurotsuchi said firmly. ''Do you think that man will just stand aside and watch your smile like this, do you think he will sit by and watch you fortify this village? What do you think is stopping him from dropping a meteorite in this village?!''

He could do that, he had that kind of power. Why didn't her grandfather think of it? That man told the old man seruously that unless he was provoked, he wouldn't dare to act or attack this village. And he had made it very clear to her that any harm against his country was unforgivable. Onoki had provoked the man and he would act.

''Are you doing this so that he can attack you and you will have an excuse to start a war with him?'' Kurotsuchi added a bit angrilly. When he does attack, the old man was surely going to act like the Emperor was the one who has done wrong when it was him who provoked a lion sleeping peacefully in its den.

''That is if he does attack,'' Onoki snorted. ''If he was going to attack, he would have done it already. Given how quick he is to act, nothing as happened so far. And nothing is going to happen untill other nations ally with us after hearing about his success.''

''You amaze me, grandfather,'' Kurostcuchi started slowly. ''You know that if other nations join you in your crusade, Naruto will eventually attack, and this will affect even those who joined you. When that does happen, you will have more reasons to coach them to offering their armies so that you can fight the Emperor.'' She wasn't impressed. More like disgusted that he was willing to go that far in his obession with seeing the downfall of Emperor Naruto.

Before Onoki could respond, an Anbu appeared in the office, and whispered to the Tsuchikage, ''we have a visitor from the Imperial Kingdom, Tsuchikage-sama.''

''Who is it?'' the Sandaime Tsuchikage didn't bother lowering his tone when he responded. Kurutsuchi could hear him for all he cared. Besides, she wouldn't beyray him, no matter what.

''Karin-san, the so called sister of the Emperor,'' the Anbu said. ''Should we escourt her here?''

Onoki nodded and the Anbu quickly left to carry out his business. Onoki frowned, so the Emperor had reacted far quciker than he expected. But Karin's presence was understable since she was the one he stole from. However, this was also a daring move by the Emperor. It was almost like he was daring him to capture Karin. But he wasn't going to fall for the bait, not in a million years.

''Kurostuchi...''

the black haired stood up without a word leaving her lips and walked away from the office. She had other matters to deal with other than hearing whatever it had to be said between the messenger from the Imperial Kingdom and her grandfather. The end result was inevitably going to be the same and she didn't need to predict it or require a prophet to make the prediction. It was clear as day, a play from a book she once read in one of her dreams.

Karin was brought into the office of the Tsuchikage with a visble frown on her face. She was by far displeased about what had just occured. She knew that her presence here really served no purposes. But because she didn't listen, she had to face the music. At least Naruto wasn't going to remove her from Uzu or cut off her budget.

''Sit,'' Onoki instructed in a firm tone. His expression didn't reveal his age, but revealed the face of an experience Kage who has seen many things, perhaps too much.

Karin sat down quietly before adopting a blank expression, ''You've put me in quite the bind Tsuchikage-sama,'' she started monotonously. ''You stole my weapons, my people and used it to harm 'my' people. Considering that the weapons were created by the taxes those people pay, I feel that I am responsible for the harm.''

''So?''

''So..?'' He dared say something like that. What was going on the fricken mind of this old bastard, didn't he understand the seriousness of the situation? Karin considered jumping into her desk and yell: what is wrong with you?! Or perhaps release a chakra chain and smash the fool around the office to tighten the screws that were definately loose inside his head.

But she calmed herself down. That didn't mean she was going to be civil. Adjusting her glassess, Karin leaned back to her seat and folded her hands across her chest: now she was comfortable. ''I've always heard rumors that you were stubborn. However, I was always told that you were not stupid, Tsuchikage-sama. Now I believe the former, but I'm starting to think that your inteligence may have been exagerrated.''

Karin had been around Naruto long enough to know how he acted, and this was something he would have probably said to the old coot. It didn't scare her that she had insulted a Kage of another village. Since the man wasn't going to aplogize and beg for forgiveness, there was no need for her to be civil, and Naruto wasn't going to be civil either: when he does come here, it will be all about business and the destroying part. He won't care for what she said to the Tsuchikage. Since everything has been set, he will be even amused and impressed at her boldness.

''Watch what you say to me brat,'' Onoki growled. ''I will not accept to being disprespected in my own house by a mere child.''

''Ho..?'' Karin arched a curious brow. ''What are you going to do about it if I insult you again? Are you going to kill me, hold me hostage? What can you do, Tsuchikage-sama?'' A slightly taunting tone was used to further press the Tsuchikage's buttons.

''What is stopping me from killing you right now?'' He snapped his fingers and an Anbu appeared behind Karin, sword drawn out. ''I can have you killed right now and send you back to the Rice capital in pieces and simply say that you attempted to kill me.''

Karin nodded to herself, and remained impassive. ''Do you think a reason will be enough to safe you from the Emperor's wrath? He does take family rather importantly, and I imagine you also love yours? You have never seen him infuriated have you? When he destroyed Konoha, he wasn't angry, so what do you think he would do to Iwagakure if you angered him,'' Karin paused for a moment, shrugging her shoulders. ''If you wish to kill me, go ahead. Naruto will probably revive me. And then turn this village into a large crater.''

ah, the joys of being Naruto's sister.

The Anbu leaned closer, pressing his blade against Karin's neck, but the red haired Uzumaki didn't flinch. She was rather scraed, and frighetened to death. The fact that someone was watching her, was only able to stop herself from crying. ''It is really easy to kill you off...''

''It seems simple,'' Karin didn't need to deny that. ''You're not going to give back the blueprints you stole, and my subjects nor beg for forgiveness for your actions towards the City of Sound.''

''If you knew that already, why even bother showing up here? Has your King lost his edge, that is if he ever had one to begin with,'' Onoki said, still keeping a stern gaze on the Uzumaki. He'd already given his Anbu the order to stand so that they could speak 'comfortably.'

''Do you really think that by doing something like this you will gain more allies?'' Karin didn't wait for a response as she already knew it. ''The Emperor will not forgive your actions, and instead of gaining new allies, you will lose the ones you already have. This is the Emperor word: I will be coming soon. And when he does get here, it will not be good for you. He will make an example out of you.''

Onoki snorted, ''that is if he can,'' he said. ''I have fought him and It wasn't for naught, I gained some valuable information about him. My army has been preparing, so he can come here, but I will not let him do as he pleases.''

Karin shook her head, ''No wonder the Raikage refuses to join you. Your sturboness and this arrogance will cost you dearly. I will reteriate what I said in the beggining, the rumors about being being smart have been greatly exagerrated,'' she stood up. ''If you ever steal one of my babies again, I will kill you with my own hands. The only reprive I will get over this action, which has reflected badly on me, is that you will be punished.''

''Threatening a Kage is a great crime, Uzumaki.'' Onoki said, comfortably leaning against his big sized chair.

''I'm aware of that,'' Karin shrugged. ''But your actions had me 'dragged' out from Uzu to deliver this message, and will likely face punishment. I pity you though. Your foolishness and underestimating how much the Emperor stays true to his word will ruin you.''

That said, Karin walked away from the office. If that man hadn't butt into her busins, she would have never been summoned to the Imperial palace, and Naruto wouldn't have been displeased with her disobedience.

''Is he really going to come here?'' Kurotsuchi asked, standing hehind Karin, just outside of Onoki's office. She had been eaves dropping on the conversation just so she couldn't miss anything, even though she already knew the result would be as she predicted.

''Yes,'' Karin said. ''I don't know when, but he will eventually come and punish this village for Onoki's foolishness. There are going to be casualties, and some important people will die. Your people killed hundreds of innocent civilians, the Emperor cannot forgive that. Naruto has killed a lot of people, but innocent civilians? No.''

''I know that,'' Kurotsuchi said, before adding. ''He is cruel isn't he? Warning us in time that he will attack brings us nothing but axiety. Our forces are going to be working overtime to fortify the village in preparation on his invasion. But that is what he wants, just so he can crush us when we are prepared for him.''

Karin smiled sadly at Kurotsuchi, ''You're a good person, you know. You love both your grandfather and village. But unlike him, you're not troubled by his stuborness and mindset. After the past couple of years, you've grown to understand a few things about the Emperor,'' she paused before adding. ''Perhaps you should be Tsuchikage instead of your grandfather.''