Naruto: Lightning's Destiny

Chunin Exams: Beginning of the Finales

The Third Hokage's office was quiet, save for the soft rustling of papers as Hiruzen glanced over a few documents. I stood in front of his desk, crossing my arms as I pushed down the frustration brewing inside.

"Look," I began, keeping my voice steady but firm, "you need to up your defenses, old man. This isn't some hunch, Orochimaru's planning something big."

The Third gave a slight frown, meeting my eyes with that unreadable expression he always wore. "Lightning, I understand your concern, but I can't just act on a... projection. Raising our defenses so publicly would stir suspicion with the other nations."

I bit back a sharp response, forcing myself to keep calm. "Orochimaru might be 'one guy with a small village,' but if someone as small as the Sound can catch you off guard, what makes you think the bigger nations wouldn't try you too?"

The Third sighed, his voice even and measured. "Perhaps you're overestimating him. Orochimaru is clever, I'll give him that, but even he can't pull off a large-scale invasion unnoticed. He's ambitious, yes, but not invincible and definitely shouldn't have the man power to be capable of such actions."

A spark of irritation flared, and I found myself snapping, "Fine. But when you drop dead, don't act shocked."

Without warning, the old man pulled me into a quick hug, his tone softening as he said, "I know you care more about this village than you let on."

I squirmed, rolling my eyes. "It's not about the Leaf. Honestly, I couldn't care any less about half the people here. But... there are still some that I care about, and if they die because you're too soft hearted and scared to look weak, then yeah, I'm gonna be pissed."

Hiruzen pulled back, giving me a nod. "If such a threat truly does present itself, I'll be prepared. I'll let the Jonin and ANBU know to be vigilant. But I can't make a full announcement, especially with foreign eyes watching." He paused, the faintest smile pulling at his lips. "And I look forward to meeting the girl you've been hiding."

I scoffed, crossing my arms. "Yeah, well... whatever."

After leaving the Hokage's office, I headed home, the weight of the conversation lingering with me. Inside, Keyshia was waiting, her gaze lighting up as soon as she saw me.

"Any luck with the president?" she asked, her tone hopeful.

"They call them Kages in this world." I chuckled then I let out a sigh, sinking onto the couch beside her. "I warned him, but he's cautious about acting too openly." I shrugged, "Not that I blame him, he doesn't want to draw attention from other nations, but he doesn't realize Orochimaru's planning something no one's ready for."

She nodded, taking it in, though her expression stayed thoughtful. "So what are your plans?"

"Nothing, I have a vague idea of what's going to happen but not sure how or when it's going to be executed, I did my part in warning the old man. So my mission during whatever Orochimaru plans is to protect those I cherish." I replied.

"Always like you, that's what you were like back in our clan." She replied.

I blinked, realizing I'd forgotten. "I was with Orochimaru earlier and forgot to ask him, too." I hesitated before adding, "I was tryna figure out how to go home, found out Orochimaru might know. Though it wouldn't hurt to know, I guess. Just in case."

Her face lit up, excitement dancing in her eyes. "So... you've decided to go back?"

I scratched the back of my neck. "No. Not really, I just thought you should have the choice, at least." I looked away, adding. "I know how much going home means to you. I don't want you to feel forced to stay here."