The early morning sunlight filtered softly through the thin curtains as Uchiha Izumi slowly stirred from her sleep. She stretched languidly, a small, satisfied smile curling on her lips as she sat up from the bed.
"Ah!" she sighed contentedly. "This feels so comfortable. It's been a long time since I've felt such ease. As expected, having a woman by my side makes all the difference. Maybe I should make this a habit."
Her eyes wandered toward the figure beside her — Kurama Yakumo — who was already awake, her eyes open and quietly observing. Izumi's smile deepened. "Eh? You're up quite early."
Kurama's gaze was heavy with exhaustion. "I didn't sleep a wink," she said, stretching her lithe body. The movement accentuated her slender waist and the gentle curve of her chest. Her fair, porcelain-like skin seemed almost translucent in the morning light, casting an ethereal glow that even made another woman like Izumi momentarily envious.
Silently, Kurama sighed inwardly. This woman truly is beautiful. But the graceful, fairy-like aura Izumi exuded was misleading. There was a darkness beneath that perfection, something far more dangerous.
Clearing her throat, Kurama asked cautiously, "What exactly do you want me to do?"
Izumi rose from the bed, a determined gleam in her eyes. "I want you to use your genjutsu to pull everyone within a certain area into an illusion."
Kurama's eyes flickered with hesitation. "Ah... that sounds a bit troublesome."
Izumi gave a teasing smile. "Troublesome? You can do it. Here's the deal — I'll teach you a genjutsu technique I invented, and that will be enough to accomplish it."
Kurama studied her carefully, a mix of doubt and intrigue crossing her face. After a moment, she forced a small, awkward smile. "Well, in that case, it's not impossible. So, what's the content of this genjutsu? If I'm going to cast it, you want it to create a realistic scene for the victims, right? What do you want me to show them?"
Izumi's lips curved into a sly smile. "I'll show you right now, and I'll teach you the genjutsu technique as well."
Without warning, a hand formed from Divine Ink — dark, fluid, and shimmering with mystical energy — shot out from Izumi's body. It pressed firmly onto Kurama's head, sending a flood of images racing into her mind. Scenes and constructs of the illusion appeared rapidly, forcing her brain to work furiously to process the incoming data.
Time seemed to stretch as Kurama struggled to keep up with the torrent of images. After a long while, Izumi withdrew her ink-formed hand.
Kurama's lips trembled, and a thin stream of drool escaped as she collapsed backward, overwhelmed by the strain. She cried out in disbelief, "No! This is absolutely impossible!"
Pain wracked her head, but she no longer cared. Instead, she clung desperately to Izumi's leg and pleaded, "Please... if everyone finds out about this, both I and the Anma Clan will be destroyed! There are so many powerful ninja — my genjutsu will be seen through! The consequences will be fatal!"
Izumi lightly flicked her leg, sending Kurama hurtling into the nearby wall with a sickening thud.
"Ah!" Kurama screamed in agony but forced herself to stand, panic and desperation swirling in her eyes.
Izumi's voice dropped to a cold murmur. "Don't worry. As long as you succeed, I won't let your Anma Clan perish."
She took a step closer. "If you want to keep this secret, then make sure no one notices. Besides, it's not that you can't do it — you just need to put in the effort."
Izumi's gaze sharpened. "Let me be clear: I just want to see how far you can go. If you fail, I will take back your power. I'll cripple you, make you taste despair again... and then I'll destroy Konoha. But if you succeed, I'll leave once I've had my fun. Maybe I'll even reward you."
She turned toward the door, beginning to dress herself. "Think carefully. Goodbye for now. I'll return tonight."
As Izumi pulled on her clothes and opened the door to leave, she murmured softly to herself, "Ah, it really is comfortable... It's been a long time since I've slept with someone else. The last time was as a child — with my mother. Back then, I always liked to hug her as I fell asleep... How nostalgic."
Suddenly, an unsettling thought flashed through her mind. Her dark eyes sharpened, transforming in an instant into the crimson glow of the Sharingan.
Izumi revealed the terrifying crimson of her Sharingan, glanced coldly at Kurama Yakumo, and then stepped out into the morning light.
---
Left alone, Kurama clutched her throbbing head, the vivid images still flashing violently through her mind. Her entire body trembled with a tumult of conflicting emotions as she pondered her dilemma.
Do it? Or not?
If she agreed to Izumi's plan, she would become a traitor to Konoha — a sinner in the eyes of her friends and comrades.
If she refused, she would be stripped of power and reduced to an ordinary person. Worse still, her clan would lose any chance of revival.
Memories flooded her mind — the days when others looked down on her, the mocking laughter of neighbors, the disappointed faces of her clan members.
She closed her eyes tightly and thought, If I do this... as long as no one notices, as long as my genjutsu isn't broken... maybe there's still a chance to survive.
Her hands trembled uncontrollably as this thought took hold.
At that moment, a voice called from the corridor.
"Yakumo! I've come to see you!"
Kurama quickly wiped her eyes, composed herself, and stood, leaning against the wall.
She stepped out cautiously and saw a handsome young man approaching. A familiar warmth bloomed in her chest.
"Guangfeng," she whispered, relief washing over her. He was her steadfast companion, always caring for her, his noble family background and kindness a source of comfort.
Kurama asked softly, "Why did you come?"
Guangfeng smiled, though concern flickered across his face. "Why do you look so worn out? Didn't you sleep well?"
She shook her head. "No... I was thinking about my family last night. It made me sad."
Guangfeng reached out gently. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you think of sad things."
Kurama forced a small smile. "It's okay now. Really."
He brightened a little. "If you're feeling off, how about we go shopping or take a walk by the river?"
Kurama hesitated before shaking her head. "Maybe another day. I'm not feeling well today."
Guangfeng masked his disappointment and said warmly, "Alright, I'll come find you another time."
She nodded, grateful. "I'd like that."
Guangfeng's eyes sparkled with excitement. "By the way, do you want to watch the Chunin Exams? I heard there's a match between Uchiha Sasuke and Gaara from the Sand Village. It's supposed to be thrilling!"
Kurama's face flushed and she quickly declined. "No... too many people. I don't like crowds."
Guangfeng nodded understandingly. "Okay, maybe another day."
She watched him walk away, then covered her mouth as she returned to the room, staring blankly out the window.
After a long moment, determination blossomed in her eyes. She picked up her paintbrush and began to practice, the steady strokes helping to calm her restless mind.
---
Outside, Izumi walked along Konoha's bustling main street. The village had grown increasingly prosperous and lively over the years, and despite her conflicted feelings, she couldn't help but sigh with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia.
She wandered through the streets she once oversaw, observing familiar shops and faces alongside new establishments and strangers. Each sight stirred emotions she hadn't expected.
Eventually, she stopped in front of a small eatery. After a moment's hesitation, she stepped inside.
"Customer, what would you like?" the vendor asked cheerfully.
Izumi glanced around, noting that she was disguised. Otherwise, I'd love to see their faces if they recognized me.
Her lips curled into a faint smile. "A bowl of miso soup, please
The soft afternoon sun gleamed over the peaceful village of Konoha as Uchiha Izumi sat by the riverbank, fishing rod in hand. She had just finished her meal at a nearby eatery and now sought a moment of quiet — or so she thought.
The fish beneath the water seemed to have other plans.
Izumi's eyes narrowed in irritation as she watched a plump river fish arrogantly poke its head out of the water, repeatedly opening its mouth as if mocking her.
"Ahhh, you're way too arrogant!" she grumbled, gripping the fishing rod tighter. "Why won't you bite the hook? I've tossed it right in front of you. Taste it — it's delicious! Come on, just bite it already! Bite! Bite! Bite! Aahhh!"
The fish ignored her entreaties and instead spat a spray of water in her direction.
Izumi huffed in exasperation. "Really? You're just going to spit on me?"
Suddenly, a familiar voice broke through her frustration.
"Hahahaha! Big Sister, the fish just won't bite! Hahaha!"
Izumi turned to see a young boy jogging up, a wide grin on his freckled face. The unmistakable shock of blond hair and bright blue eyes marked him as none other than Uzumaki Naruto himself.
She raised an eyebrow and asked, "Eh? Aren't you that Nine-Tailed brat?"
Naruto scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Ah, you know me?"
Izumi sized him up quickly. He was indeed the talk of Konoha: a young ninja with boundless energy, dreams bigger than the village itself, and a stubbornness that wouldn't quit. She could see why so many admired him. And yet...
"Well, of course! Who in Konoha doesn't know you?" Izumi replied with a small smirk.
Naruto's gaze softened as he looked at her. She was striking — fair-skinned, graceful, with flowing black hair that framed a delicate yet confident face. He thought to himself, Wow, she's really beautiful — like a dream girl.
Since Izumi was outside the village boundaries, she hadn't bothered to hide her true appearance today.
Naruto's curiosity got the better of him, and he asked, "Someone as beautiful as you shouldn't be without an impression on me."
Izumi chuckled softly, covering her mouth. "I even paid for your ramen at Ichiraku once."
Naruto blinked in confusion. "Hmmm... Sorry, Big Sister, I can't seem to remember."
Izumi waved a dismissive hand. "It's nothing. The Third Hokage probably paid for you back then. After all, he didn't want us having any contact with you."
Naruto's eyes widened in surprise. "Huh? Why?"
Izumi grinned mischievously and shook her head. "Can't say. Secret."
Just then, the fish darted away, startled by Naruto's sudden presence.
Izumi laughed twice, then turned her attention back to Naruto. "Aren't you supposed to be training for the Chunin Exams? They start in a few days, right? Why aren't you training harder?"
Naruto rubbed the back of his head, sheepishly smiling. "Hehehe, I've learned a really powerful Ninjutsu!"
Izumi raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Then show me what you've learned."
Naruto puffed out his chest, eager to prove himself. He stepped carefully onto the surface of the river water, a grin of triumph spreading across his face.
Izumi blinked, utterly speechless. "Is that it? Walking on water? Any ninja can do that."
Naruto frowned, clearly disappointed at her reaction. "Eh? Is that so? Well, I've got another one!"
He hopped onto the shore, bit his thumb, formed the familiar hand signs, and slammed his palm on the ground. "Summoning Technique!"
A splash echoed as a small tadpole flopped awkwardly out of a nearby puddle.
Izumi blinked in disbelief. "...Is this what you call your special training?"
Naruto looked embarrassed as Izumi burst into laughter.
"This isn't my true strength! As long as I stick to my Ninja Way, I believe I can get stronger. Everyone can understand each other, and then we can defeat all enemies!"
Izumi nodded thoughtfully, her eyes glinting. "That's right. You do have some interesting 'cheats,' after all."
Watching Naruto passionately talk about a world where everyone could understand each other, live in peace, and where becoming Hokage meant achieving anything — Izumi couldn't help but compare him silently to Sasuke.
Naruto relies on others' help, while Sasuke depends on himself, she mused. But in this story, Naruto's Talk no Jutsu wins out — he convinces Sasuke and ultimately surpasses him.
Izumi's lips twitched in a faint smile. But can Naruto really beat Hyuga Neji with that attitude?
Naruto's expression faltered for a moment, and he fell silent.
Then he looked up at Izumi with fierce determination. "I'll only know if I can win by trying. I won't give up!"
Izumi nodded approvingly. "That's the spirit! You should keep that spirit — it's what makes a great ninja."
Naruto beamed. "Mm!"
Izumi's smile softened. "Since you don't have anyone to teach you right now, I'll teach you some Ninjutsu."
Naruto's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? Thank you, Big Sister! What are you going to teach me?"
Izumi reached into her pocket and pulled out a thin sheet of paper — a special kind called Chakra paper.
"This is Chakra paper," she explained, holding it carefully between her fingers. "It can detect the Chakra nature a ninja possesses."
Naruto cocked his head in confusion. "Chakra nature?"
Izumi nodded. "Right. For example, some people can control strong winds, some control earth and stone, some can manipulate flames, lightning, or flowing water. These are called the Five Great Chakra Natures: Wind, Earth, Fire, Lightning, and Water."
Naruto's eyes brightened. "Ah! I know those! I've seen Kakashi-sensei and the others use them!"
Izumi smiled. "This paper helps test your Chakra nature. If it's Fire, the paper will catch fire. If it's Wind, it will split down the middle. Lightning wrinkles the paper. Water makes it wet. Earth causes it to crumble."
"Now, gather your Chakra on this paper. Let's see what nature you have."
She handed the paper to Naruto, who eagerly took it and closed his eyes to focus.
He concentrated deeply, summoning his Chakra into the paper.
When he opened his hand, the paper was split cleanly in two.
Izumi's smile widened. "It's Wind. Excellent. I'll teach you Wind Release Ninjutsu."
Naruto shouted happily, "That's great!"
Izumi began instructing him. "Ninjutsu is generally ranked from D to S, based on difficulty. Higher ranks usually take longer to master. Since your exams are just around the corner, I'll teach you some simpler techniques first."
She formed the hand signs with practiced ease. "This is Wind Release: Violent Wind Palm."
Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind erupted from her palms, whipping up leaves and sending a light breeze rushing past.
"Ah!" Naruto staggered back, almost blown away by the sudden force.
Izumi continued, "This move can attack enemies or blow them away. It also increases the speed and power of kunai and shuriken. It's perfect for beginners like you."
She smiled and demonstrated another technique. "This one is called Wind Release: Air Current Wild Dance. Also very basic."
After demonstrating, Izumi patiently explained the hand signs and the precise method to cast each technique.
Naruto immediately began practicing Violent Wind Palm.
A gentle breeze whooshed out from his palms.
Izumi nodded approvingly. "Good. If you find it interesting, keep practicing. If it gets boring, don't force it. Practicing taijutsu and other fundamentals is just as important."
She gathered her things and stood.
"Goodbye," she said, waving as she prepared to leave.
Naruto hurried after her. "Eh? Big Sister, are you leaving already? Let me treat you to a meal!"
Izumi laughed softly. "No need. We'll meet again later."
She glanced back with a knowing smile before disappearing from sight.
Naruto bowed deeply, overwhelmed. Few had been so kind to him — teaching him valuable Ninjutsu and believing in him. His eyes glistened with gratitude.
As Izumi's figure faded into the distance, Naruto whispered to himself, "Thank you, Big Sister. I'll work hard. I won't give up
Kurama Yakumo returned home utterly exhausted, her body heavy with fatigue and her mind swirling with anxiety. As she quietly opened the door to her room, she was met with an unusual sight. There, lying comfortably on the bed, was Uchiha Izumi — casually eating potato chips with one hand while flipping through the pages of a book with the other.
Kurama blinked, her breath catching in surprise. The book in Izumi's hands was none other than Make-Out Paradise — a notorious, somewhat scandalous novel that many found embarrassing to admit reading. Her cheeks flushed a deep shade of crimson. Without thinking, she hurried forward and tried to snatch the book from Izumi's grasp, but Izumi held up a hand, stopping her firmly.
"How... how did you find this?" Kurama stammered, her voice trembling with a mixture of shock and embarrassment.
Izumi glanced at her with an indifferent smile and replied casually, "It's just Make-Out Paradise. What's there to be afraid of? Besides, aren't you and that Guangfeng guy pretty close? You must have learned a lot from this book. When are you going to put those lessons into practice?"
Kurama Yakumo covered her face, unable to respond. "You, you, you... Ahhh!" She turned and bolted from the room, her cheeks still burning.
Izumi chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Tsk, buying a book like this and then acting all innocent. Honestly, books with plot, psychological descriptions, and realistic depictions are the most interesting. The first edition I used to read feels so boring now."
As she flipped through the pages, Izumi's hand unconsciously squeezed her own ample chest, almost as if to experience the feelings described. She sighed deeply, the joy of the story momentarily interrupted by a painful memory — her younger brother, who had disappeared without a trace. The thought brought a shadow to her eyes, but she quickly pushed it aside and resumed reading.
---
The final day of the Chunin Exams arrived swiftly.
The entire Konoha Ninja Village was buzzing with excitement and energy. Visitors from all over had come to witness the fierce competition between some of the most promising young ninjas in the world. The streets were packed with enthusiastic spectators, vendors shouting out their wares, and ninja on high alert, knowing the importance of the day.
At the heart of the excitement was the highly anticipated match between Uchiha Sasuke — a prodigy from the famed Uchiha Clan — and Gaara, the fearsome sand-wielding ninja from the Hidden Sand Village. News of their battle had drawn large crowds who eagerly gathered in and around the arena.
Uchiha Izumi arrived at the competition venue with a calm and calculating air. Using her Kamui technique, she effortlessly teleported onto the roof of the arena building. From her vantage point, she could see the sea of faces below, the roaring cheers, and the tension thick in the air.
She settled on the rooftop, crossing her legs as she watched the competition unfold.
The contestants had all arrived, except for Sasuke. Since his match wasn't immediate, the competition began without him.
The first match featured Uzumaki Naruto against Hyuga Neji.
As expected, the crowd initially underestimated Naruto. He was still seen as the loud, clumsy, and undisciplined orphan — someone unlikely to shine in such a prestigious competition.
But then, Naruto shocked everyone by releasing the Wind Release: Violent Wind Palm. The attack was strong, yet Hyuga Neji's powerful Rotation technique withstood it effortlessly.
The Third Hokage, watching the match carefully, furrowed his brows in curiosity and satisfaction. "Who taught him that ninjutsu? Jiraiya?"
Izumi's gaze remained fixed on Naruto, who had just been struck down by Neji's Gentle Fist and lay sprawled on the ground. She already anticipated his next move — to draw on the power of the Nine-Tails' Chakra to overcome Neji, then use his signature "Talk no Jutsu" to convince Neji, pledging that as Hokage, he would change the fate of the Hyuga branch family forever.
Bored by the usual spectacle, Izumi stood up and stopped watching. Instead, she turned her attention to the crowd, scanning carefully.
"Where is it?" she muttered to herself, eyes darting through the sea of faces.
Her gaze soon settled on a nervous figure biting her nails in a corner — Kurama Yakumo.
Izumi studied the surroundings, memorizing every detail, then quietly slipped away into a nearby corridor.
She glanced once more at Yakumo's worried form before her eyes hardened as she looked into the distance.
---
In the dense forest bordering Konoha Ninja Village, countless ninja from Sunagakure and Otogakure lay in ambush, their eyes gleaming with anticipation. They had been waiting for this moment — the perfect opportunity to strike.
Izumi smirked and murmured, "In that case, I'll play along with you too."
Her body shimmered as ink appeared, swirling and condensing until it formed a perfect clone of herself.
With a "whoosh," the clone vanished from the roof where Izumi had been sitting.
Back at the arena, Uzumaki Naruto was tapping into the immense power of the Nine-Tails' Chakra. With a sudden burst of energy, he shattered Hyuga Neji's Rotation and tunneled underground, launching a surprise attack.
The crowd erupted in cheers, awestruck by Naruto's unexpected victory. Naruto himself shouted in triumph, a rare, genuine smile breaking through his usual anxious expression.
The second match began promptly.
Guangfeng, a close companion of Kurama Yakumo, felt a pang of regret that she couldn't watch this match with him. Initially, he had thought it would be a one-sided fight, but the battle surprised him with its intensity and strategy.
Shikamaru's cunning and resourcefulness in the match impressed Guangfeng greatly. He quietly resolved to learn from the young ninja's intellect.
Meanwhile, anticipation for the upcoming match between Uchiha Sasuke and Gaara mounted. Guangfeng planned to briefly step away to the restroom and pick up some potato chips to enjoy while watching.
As he walked down the corridor, Guangfeng suddenly caught sight of Kurama Yakumo darting by in a flustered state.
"Huh? Was that Yakumo? Didn't she say she wouldn't come? Why is she back? She looks so panicked."
Curious, Guangfeng hurried after her, but the corridor split into a crossroad. He randomly chose a direction and began searching for her.
Yakumo, overwhelmed by pressure, burst into a room and immediately took up her paintbrush.
Her hands moved swiftly, completing a detailed painting of the Chunin Exams venue. Tiny figures filled the arena, while the Hokage, Kazekage, and their escort were depicted with remarkable clarity.
Once the painting was complete, Yakumo began preparing for what was to come.
Though she could hear the deafening cheers from outside — the roar of the crowd for the epic battle between Sasuke and Gaara — her heart was heavy.
In the past, she had dreamed of a life just like theirs, filled with purpose and honor. But her innate constitution, a cruel burden, had shattered those hopes.
Luckily, Izumi, her benefactor, had granted her the power to become a ninja. Yet now, the price for that power was steep — the betrayal of her village and comrades.
"But, as long as no one finds out it was me... that's all that matters," she whispered to herself.
---
The cacophony outside began to fade.
Suddenly, a massive explosion shattered the air, rippling through Konoha Ninja Village and changing its atmosphere entirely.
"It's starting," Yakumo whispered, her eyes snapping open. She formed precise hand signs and began casting her jutsu.
"Ninja Art: Fleeting Illusion Array!"
Instantly, the painting seemed to come alive — the scenes within flickered and shifted, revealing everything happening in the arena.
Yakumo closed her eyes, pouring an enormous amount of chakra into the genjutsu. The mental strain was immense, her nose bleeding as she persisted.
"Ugh!" She gritted her teeth, unwilling to stop despite the overwhelming exhaustion.
Unbeknownst to the audience, the entire arena and everyone within had fallen under Yakumo's illusion.
---
Simultaneously, a thunderous roar echoed from the outskirts of the village.
The Summoning Technique, prepared by a team of Sunagakure ninja, succeeded at last.
An enormous, three-headed giant snake materialized near Konoha's boundary.
The sight sent shockwaves through the stationed ninja, their faces paling in fear.
Without hesitation, the colossal serpent shattered the massive walls surrounding Konoha and surged into the village, striking terror and chaos.
"Call for reinforcements! Now!"
"Yes, right away!" a ninja shouted as he rushed to send the emergency signal.
Suddenly, several kunai whistled through the air, piercing the ninja's back before he could reach safety. He collapsed to the ground.
"What?" The remaining ninja turned, eyes wide in horror.
Before them stood numerous ninja from the Hidden Sand and Sound Villages — enemy forces, poised to take advantage of the chaos.
"Enemy attack!" the alarm rang out.
---
Inside the arena, chaos reigned.
Orochimaru, disguised as the Fourth Kazekage, grabbed the Third Hokage by the arm and leapt onto the rooftop.
Behind them, the Sound Four swiftly cast the Four Violet Flames Formation — a powerful barrier that formed an undisturbed combat space for Orochimaru and the Third Hokage.
Izumi, watching all this unfold with a gleam in her eyes, licked her lips in anticipation.
"This is perfect," she murmured, excitement bubbling inside her. "Now, it's my turn to act."
She muttered under her breath, "As long as no one knows it was me... that's all that matters."
---
The great Konoha collapse plan was underway
The tension was palpable as the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, confronted the man who had infiltrated Konoha under false pretenses — Orochimaru, disguised as the Fourth Kazekage. Hiruzen's sharp eyes flicked over Orochimaru's movements, instantly recognizing the deceit and malevolent intent lurking beneath the mask.
As expected, after a brief exchange of subtle taunts and measured blows, Orochimaru released his grip on the Third Hokage, stepping back with a sinister smile. The two adversaries positioned themselves on opposite sides of the barrier—the boundary formed by the Sound Four's powerful Four Violet Flames Formation, isolating the battleground from the outside world and ensuring an uninterrupted confrontation.
With a swift, fluid motion, Hiruzen removed his Hokage haori, revealing the battle-hardened form beneath. There was no time for hesitation. The seasoned leader launched the first attack.
"Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique!"
In an instant, multiple shadow clones materialized, each wielding deadly shuriken aimed precisely at their foe.
Orochimaru's grin widened with cruel delight. Slamming a hand onto the ground, he uttered the forbidden incantation, "Edo Tensei!"
Suddenly, three ancient coffins burst from the earth, crashing down with deafening booms. But before the third coffin could fully emerge, Hiruzen acted with lightning speed, blocking its appearance.
From the two intact coffins stepped forth two legendary figures — the First Hokage, Senju Hashirama, and the Second Hokage, Senju Tobirama.
The air thickened with a mixture of reverence and tension as the aged warriors recognized their former student.
"Long time no see, Hiruzen," Hashirama greeted with a nod, his voice carrying the weight of years.
Tobirama added with a wry smile, "Oh? It's you. You've aged, Hiruzen."
Hiruzen's face darkened with grim resolve. "It is truly regrettable that we must meet again under such dire circumstances, my two masters."
He turned his gaze sharply to Orochimaru. "You must prepare yourselves, First Hokage-sama, Second Hokage-sama."
Tobirama's eyes narrowed as he regarded Orochimaru suspiciously. "Edo Tensei? So this young man is the one who summoned us with this forbidden jutsu? Impressive indeed."
Hashirama nodded solemnly before turning to Hiruzen. "Hiruzen, it appears we have no choice but to fight."
But before they could engage, Orochimaru interjected sharply. "Enough chatter, old men. It's time we began."
Hiruzen watched intently as Orochimaru prepared to control the two revived Hokage. Despite the gravity of the situation, Hiruzen refrained from interrupting, observing carefully.
Just as Orochimaru withdrew a kunai inscribed with a talisman, ready to assert his dominance over the Edo Tensei warriors, something unexpected happened — his movements suddenly froze.
"Hmm?!"
All three Hokage turned their attention to a new presence at the edge of the battlefield.
There stood a figure clad in the unmistakable black robe adorned with red clouds — the Akatsuki's symbol — coupled with a strange puppet bird costume. The figure stared blankly at the trio.
"Who are you?" Hiruzen's brow furrowed deeply as he regarded the mysterious newcomer.
The figure's voice was gender-ambiguous yet mocking. "Long time no see, Third Hokage-sama." Slowly, they stepped forward toward Orochimaru.
Hiruzen glanced back at Orochimaru, who remained frozen, trapped in an unknown genjutsu.
"You know this person?" Hiruzen asked cautiously.
The stranger laughed coldly. "Who am I? Yes, that's the question. Guess."
Confused, Hiruzen whispered, "Not Orochimaru's ally... then who?"
Senju Tobirama's voice broke the silence. "Hiruzen! This genjutsu is extraordinary! Even those outside the barrier—your ANBU and others—remain oblivious to the abnormality inside. Whoever this is, they must be from the Uchiha clan or another clan with mastery over genjutsu."
The Third Hokage glanced beyond the barrier. The ANBU showed no unusual reactions.
"Could it be... Itachi Uchiha?" he muttered.
The figure mocked the Second Hokage's suggestion. "Oh, Second Hokage-sama, you're predictable. Don't be so dull. I wanted Hokage-sama to guess for himself."
Senju Tobirama scowled. "Enough games. Reveal yourself. You've no intention of hiding, have you?"
With a sudden swirl of ink, the cloak dissolved back into the body, and before them stood Uchiha Izumi, radiant and triumphant.
The Third Hokage stared in shock. "You are... no, impossible! How could you still be alive?"
Senju Hashirama glanced at Hiruzen. "It seems you know her."
Hiruzen's expression grew heavier. "She is the genius of the Uchiha clan — Uchiha Izumi."
Izumi smiled coyly, waving a hand dismissively. "Genius? Third Hokage-sama flatters me too much."
Senju Tobirama sneered. "Hiruzen, I told you, the Uchiha clan is evil."
Izumi sighed deeply. "Second Hokage, the Uchiha are no more."
The Second Hokage's lips curled into a satisfied smirk. "Hmm? Hmph. Well done, Hiruzen."
The First Hokage's eyes clouded with sorrow. "The Uchiha clan has truly been wiped out?"
Izumi's voice dropped to a sarcastic whisper. "And the Senju are no different. Tsunade even fled from Konoha, hahahaha!"
Hiruzen and the two Hokage exchanged astonished glances.
Hiruzen's face darkened to stone. "One is the proud, powerful Uchiha. The other is the flourishing Senju in Konoha. Both were obstacles the Hokage never wished to see during his reign. Especially the Senju — sent to the front lines, lost in endless wars. Their children used in your cell fusion experiments, Lord Hashirama. Nearly all perished. Hah, it's laughable."
The three Hokage were left speechless, their expressions heavy with conflicting emotions.
Hiruzen himself felt the weight of his past decisions, remaining silent, unable to respond.
Izumi stepped forward. "Allow me to introduce myself properly. My real name is Duanmu Quan. My father belonged to the Duanmu clan, and my mother was from the Uchiha clan. After my father's death, I returned to the Uchiha clan and became known as Uchiha Izumi."
Hashirama and Tobirama exchanged surprised looks. "Duanmu?"
Izumi stuck out her long tongue and licked her lips mischievously. "That's right. In fact, I'm also part Senju. Hehehe. I carry the bloodlines of both the Senju and Uchiha — the vengeful spirits of two clans. Now, Hokage-sama, you know my purpose here, don't you?"
She revealed her crimson Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan, its eerie glow piercing the air as she fixed her gaze on Hiruzen.
The Third Hokage sighed heavily. "So that's it... Alas, Uchiha Izumi. I was truly unaware of your mother's fate back then. It was Danzo who did it. By the time I learned the truth, it was already too late."
Izumi scoffed coldly. "Huh? Are you joking? Without your silent consent, would Danzo dare such things? Konoha has fallen into ruin under you and Danzo's rule. The Senju and Uchiha exist now only in name. Talents were reduced to mere tools for political games. Countless people like me were persecuted. Now, I've come to exact revenge."
Hashirama's expression softened, and he turned to Hiruzen. "Is this truly the case? Even with your reasons, this... is too much."
Hiruzen closed his eyes and sighed deeply. "My masters, I had no choice."
"No choice?" Izumi laughed harshly. "Tell them that when you're burning in hell. But don't worry — your end is near."
Her hands moved swiftly, placing them on the heads of Senju Hashirama and Tobirama. Dark talismans shot into their minds, piercing their consciousness.
"Since you have not realized your mistakes, Lord Hiruzen, allow me to remind you where you went wrong."
Her smile was cold and merciless. "You two... kill him."
She snapped her fingers toward Orochimaru. "And you, too, Orochimaru!"
Tobirama gasped in disbelief. "Incredible! To seize control of Edo Tensei with a talisman—strengthening us while retaining our consciousness—it's extraordinary."
Hashirama roared. "Be careful! Hiruzen, my power has multiplied many times over!"
Hiruzen's eyes darted warily among the four figures before him.
Suddenly, Hashirama's voice thundered, "Wood Release! Deep Forest Emergence!"
With a mighty explosion, countless towering trees erupted from the earth, surging toward Hiruzen like a raging green tsunami.
---
The battle between the Third Hokage and the forces now under Uchiha Izumi's control had begun in earnest — a clash of past legends, present ambitions, and the desperate fight for the future of Konoha
The Third Hokage's eyes widened as the mighty Wood Release technique erupted around him, thick tree trunks crashing down like an unbreakable wall of nature. "Ah! Shodai-sama's Wood Release! There's nowhere to hide in such a confined space, damn it! Summoning Technique!" he shouted urgently.
With a tremendous boom, countless towering tree trunks rapidly filled the area ahead, shaking the very ground beneath their feet. The immense force was so powerful that even the Otogakure Four's barrier trembled and wavered under the assault, almost collapsing.
Izumi clapped her hands slowly, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Oh, how spectacular," she murmured with dark amusement. "Let's continue, then."
Senju Hashirama's voice rang out in concern, "Sarutobi, are you alright?"
As the vast forest of trees receded, the Third Hokage appeared inside Enma's Adamantine Staff barrier, breathing heavily but clearly having avoided the brunt of the attack.
Seeing an opening in the tangled trees, Hiruzen wasted no time. Taking a deep breath, he immediately unleashed a powerful ninjutsu: "Fire Release: Fire Dragon Bullet!"
A blazing stream of flame roared from his mouth, charging ferociously toward the four assailants.
Before the flames could reach them, Izumi snapped her fingers with practiced ease. A glowing talisman shot from her hand, hovering mid-air before the group. Instantly, the fiery dragon was absorbed by the talisman and sealed away.
The Third Hokage blinked in surprise. "Hmm? That actually works?"
Unwilling to relent, the Second Hokage counterattacked swiftly. "Water Release: Water Severing Wave!"
With a series of hand seals, a powerful torrent of water surged forward, roaring like a relentless tsunami aimed directly at Hiruzen.
Reacting quickly, the Third Hokage spat a mouthful of earth onto the battlefield. "Earth Release! Earth-Style Wall!"
The soil immediately rose, forming a sturdy barrier that blocked the water's advance.
Tobirama wasn't deterred. Manipulating the water with precise control, he formed concentrated water bullets that shattered the earth wall, sending shards of dirt flying.
Hiruzen leapt agilely, bounding from one stone wall to another, narrowly avoiding the incoming water blasts.
Meanwhile, Orochimaru's unnerving tongue extended, morphing into a writhing snake that clamped onto the legendary Kusanagi Sword. With a hiss, the sword flew straight toward the Third Hokage.
Hiruzen raised his Adamantine Staff just in time to block the incoming blade.
But the relentless assault continued — countless trees crashed again, forcing the Third Hokage to scramble and dodge desperately.
The enemies pressed their advantage, closing in.
Orochimaru's Kusanagi sword clashed against Hiruzen's staff, sparks flying, while Senju Hashirama lunged forward.
With a powerful punch to Hiruzen's stomach, Hashirama sent him flying backward. Before Hiruzen could regain footing, Tobirama appeared behind him, driving a knee hard into his back.
"Pfft!" The Third Hokage crashed heavily onto the ground, winded and hurt.
Just as the onslaught seemed about to become lethal, Izumi's voice rang out coldly, halting the attack. "Hey, hey, hey, slow down, you guys. Don't kill him all at once. Take your time — kill him little by little."
Her command was obeyed immediately. Instead of delivering fatal blows, the attackers continued to torment and harass the Third Hokage, reveling in their dominance.
Senju Hashirama looked on, a pained expression on his face. "Damn it! This little girl is quite ruthless!" He glanced at the blood-soaked, battered Hiruzen with genuine sorrow.
Despite his injuries, Hiruzen gathered his resolve and engaged his foes in close combat.
The battle waged fiercely — the God of Ninja's skills were extraordinary, but so too were the combined powers of Senju Tobirama and Orochimaru. With age and previous wounds weighing heavily on him, the Third Hokage struggled to keep up.
Multiple fierce blows rained down on him. Blood spattered repeatedly from his mouth as he fought desperately.
Hiruzen blocked a powerful kick from the First Hokage, then swiftly dodged Orochimaru's Hidden Shadow Snake Hands attack, narrowly avoiding the deadly strike.
But Tobirama was quick to follow. With a precise throw, he sent a kunai whistling toward Hiruzen.
Reacting instantly, Hiruzen twisted his body to evade.
Tobirama shouted urgently, "Sarutobi, be careful! Flying Thunder God!"
The words triggered a flash of recognition.
"What!" Hiruzen muttered, realizing what was coming.
But it was too late.
The Second Hokage appeared instantly at the kunai's location, delivering a crushing kick to the Third Hokage's head.
Hiruzen could only watch helplessly. "I can't dodge it! Damn it!"
Just as the kick was about to connect fully, Enma's Adamantine Staff extended like a leg, intercepting the strike.
Simultaneously, the staff stretched another arm, grabbing the arms of Senju Hashirama and Orochimaru, holding them fast.
"Well done, Sarutobi!" Hashirama shouted, nodding in approval. "Quickly seal us!"
Hiruzen nodded determinedly. "Understood!"
Just as he prepared to perform the sealing jutsu, he sensed a presence behind him.
Izumi appeared suddenly, licking her lips and grinning. "Hahahaha, don't forget about me, Hokage-sama!"
Alarmed, Hiruzen instinctively dodged, but Izumi's arm grazed his leg in the process.
Both Hokage's eyes widened in shock. "So fast!"
Even without activating the Lightning Release Chakra Mode, Izumi's speed was incredible.
"Sarutobi!" they called out, worried.
Hiruzen clutched his wounded leg, grimacing in pain. "Ah! This little girl… she's so fast!"
Izumi looked at the severed limb and shrugged apologetically, tongue flicking out. "Oh dear, I'm sorry. I couldn't resist acting. I had planned to just watch, but you won't last much longer. How many more moves can you survive against so many experts?"
The Third Hokage glanced at Enma, who still fiercely gripped Orochimaru and the two Edo Tensei Hokage. "First, seal them!" he commanded through gritted teeth.
Four shadow clones suddenly appeared around him.
"Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Hiruzen formed multiple copies of himself, each one rushing fiercely toward the group.
A colossal figure emerged behind him — the manifestation of the legendary Shinigami itself.
"Reaper Death Seal!"
Izumi narrowed her eyes, recognizing the technique despite its invisibility to others.
As the Hokage's clone reached to grab the enemies, Izumi's Mangekyo Sharingan fixed on it, and with a blink, the clone instantly collapsed.
Sensing the clone's intent, the two Hokage instinctively tried to dodge.
Hashirama, however, saw the original Hiruzen's form and shouted urgently, "Tobirama!"
Tobirama nodded. "Understood!"
Despite their reluctance, the two Hokage struggled to resist the pull.
Tobirama grunted, "Although this little girl's talismans are powerful, Edo Tensei still has its limits. If we can break free from this jutsu, it's over for her. Letting us keep our consciousness was your biggest mistake, little girl!"
But the seal held strong.
The two Hokage's resistance faltered, and they were captured by Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Suddenly, from the abdomen of Hiruzen's clone, large rune-covered hands appeared, reaching out and grabbing their souls.
As the souls were about to be extracted, a familiar voice called out, trembling yet clear.
"Grandpa."
The Third Hokage's head snapped toward the voice.
"Konohamaru?" he gasped.
Izumi's hand pressed tightly against the head of a young boy trapped under her Genjutsu — vacant eyes staring out blankly. It was Konohamaru Sarutobi.
Izumi smiled wickedly. "Hokage-sama, if you seal them, you'll never see your grandson again." She increased the pressure on Konohamaru's head, as if to crush it at any moment.
Hiruzen gritted his teeth. "You…"
The First Hokage shouted angrily, "You are despicable!"
The two Hokage turned to Hiruzen. "Sarutobi…"
Hiruzen nodded grimly. "I know."
Summoning his last strength, he dragged their souls out, sealing them inside the Shinigami's belly.
"Thank you for your hard work, Sarutobi," Hashirama and Tobirama whispered before their souls disappeared into the Reaper's stomach.
Izumi spat Konohamaru aside and sneered. "Forget it, how boring."
Meanwhile, Orochimaru transformed into a slippery snake, evading Enma's grasp.
With a sudden flick, he appeared before Hiruzen, thrusting the Kusanagi Sword deep into the Third Hokage's body.
"Ah!" Hiruzen gasped, grabbing Orochimaru with his remaining strength.
Izumi smirked, mocking. "Oh dear, Hokage-sama, how is it? I've delivered Orochimaru right to you!"
"To be killed by your own disciple... not bad. You two can reminisce slowly." She laughed darkly. "Next, I'm going to cause a ruckus in Konoha! Hahahahaha!"
Controlling Enma with her Sharingan, Izumi walked over and delivered a single stroke, cutting Enma down.
"Goodbye, Hokage-sama. I won't destroy Konoha myself. I want Danzo to become Hokage first — then I'll kill him after he takes the throne! Hahahahaha!"
With those chilling words, her figure vanished like smoke.
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked after her retreating form, sorrow flooding his heart.
The once-mighty Konoha Ninja Village was being toyed with by a ruthless little girl. How shameful.
Meanwhile, Orochimaru remained trapped within the Genjutsu, locked in a stalemate with Hiruzen, the battle dragging on endlessly.
Suddenly, the scene changed.
Hiruzen lay on the ground, his leg severed and chest pierced by the Kusanagi Sword. Enma, the steadfast Monkey King, lay dead at his side.
Orochimaru stared in disbelief. "What's going on? Enma is dead? Sensei's leg? What happened?"
A voice called from the shadows. "Old man, what happened?"
Hiruzen replied weakly, "You... fool... were controlled... by Genjutsu, cough cough…"
"What?!" Orochimaru's eyes widened. "You mean someone used Genjutsu on me?"
"Old man, let go of me!" Orochimaru struggled, but Hiruzen's weak grasp held firm.
The arm that emerged from Hiruzen's abdomen suddenly seized Orochimaru's arm soul.
"Hey! You old geezer! Let go!"
"Orochimaru! I'm dying, but I'm taking your ninjutsu with me!"
"Damn it! Hey! Let go!"
The Shinigami's blade sliced through Orochimaru's arm soul and vanished.
Hiruzen watched Orochimaru's curses fade, then slowly closed his eyes.
Orochimaru, utterly bewildered, could only watch helplessly. He had been ensnared by a Genjutsu, and upon awakening, found his ninjutsu stolen. Furious and confused, he was swiftly carried away by his subordinates, fleeing the battlefield.
---
The battle had turned in favor of the Third Hokage — but at great cost.
The echoes of revenge, betrayal, and bitter regrets hung heavy in the air as the fate of Konoha remained uncertain