Deep within Root Headquarters, Shimura Danzo remained as secretive as ever. Even under Tsunade's rule, his schemes never ceased.
He had orchestrated Sai's placement on Kakashi's Team 7 to fill the gaps left by recent losses. Now, as he reviewed the reports in his hands, a grim smile crossed his face.
"Sarutobi… your youngest son is dead too," Danzo muttered, voice low but sharp. "Only one grandson remains in your bloodline. How ironic."
He tapped his right eye, activating the Sharingan he had modified with the powers of the Mangekyō of the Other God. "Always monitor the Nine-Tailed Jinchuriki's movements closely," he instructed a Root operative.
"Yes, Lord Danzo," the shinobi responded and vanished into the shadows.
Danzo's mind lingered on Naruto—the Jinchuriki who now wielded Sage Mode, his power unstable and unpredictable.
Meanwhile, Konoha Village had mobilized. Tsunade, acting as Hokage, had dispatched her ANBU to track Hidan and Kakuzu after the massacre at the Fire Temple. She called upon Team 7 and members of Team 10 to eliminate the threat in one decisive strike.
Inside the Hokage's office, Kakashi stood at attention, flanked by Naruto, Sakura, Sai, Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji.
"I've summoned you for an S-rank mission," Tsunade began, her expression grave. "Your targets: two Akatsuki operatives and the murderers of Asuma-sensei."
Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji clenched their fists at the mention of Asuma. Revenge burned in their hearts.
"Kakashi, you will lead the team," Tsunade continued.
"Understood," Kakashi replied solemnly.
An hour later, the team assembled at Konoha's gates, ready for deployment. Shikamaru took a moment to visit Kurenai Yuhi.
"Red-senpai, Class 10 and Class 7 are going to avenge Asuma," he explained quickly.
Kurenai's face softened with concern. "Be careful… don't show off, and stay alert."
"Understood," Shikamaru nodded, then hurried to join the team.
The seven shinobi sped toward the Land of Fire's border, while Hidan and Kakuzu moved cautiously along the road.
"We should leave the Fire Country's borders quickly," Kakuzu said, frowning. "Otherwise, Konoha ninjas will inevitably find us."
Hidan laughed carelessly. "Konoha ninjas? Don't worry—what have they ever done that could stop us?"
But the seven appeared before them suddenly, ready for battle. Kakuzu scowled. "I knew staying in Fire Country too long would be trouble."
Hidan's grin widened, his eyes scanning the team like a predator assessing prey. "More mouths to feed… and three little ghosts who escaped last time. Looks like we get them all now."
Shikamaru quickly outlined the strategy to Naruto and Sakura.
"I'll handle Hidan," Naruto said confidently. "Kakashi-sensei, you deal with Kakuzu."
Kakashi hesitated, then nodded. From an intelligence perspective, Hidan's physical strength was manageable; Kakuzu's abilities were far more dangerous.
Sakura added quickly, "I'll help Naruto—just in case Hidan hides something."
"Good," Kakashi replied, dividing the team. "Sai, Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji, stick with me against Kakuzu."
Naruto sprinted toward Hidan, Sakura close behind. Hidan's eyes narrowed.
"You move fast," he remarked. "If I'm not mistaken, you're Konoha's Nine-Tailed Jinchuriki… interesting."
Sakura fell in step beside Naruto. "We fight together. No more solo battles."
Naruto nodded. "Keep the flank. Watch carefully—Hidan is dangerous, but only if he gets blood. Without it, his cursed technique doesn't work."
Hidan licked his lips, twirling his scythe. He was indeed strong, but as long as Naruto avoided the trap, victory would depend on strategy, not sheer power.
Naruto's eyes glinted with determination. The battle ahead would not only avenge Asuma but also test everything he had learned in Sage Mode.
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