Naruto : The ultimate Troublemaker

When the guards regained their mobility, they saw only a thin trail of black smoke with a burnt smell dissipating into the air. The body of the daimyo, along with the most important advisors of the country, lay on the ground, with clean and deadly wounds on their chests or a fine line across their necks.

Murmurs spread like wildfire:

"It was *DarkRai*."

And according to the rumors, "if even the daimyo couldn't protect himself, no one can escape this demon."

The terror inspired by Shikai spread throughout the Fire Country. The assassination was simple and efficient.

Night fell over Konoha, enveloping the village in a relative calm disturbed only by the gleam of the Moon. Shikai Nara, masked and dressed in his black ANBU attire, walked with measured steps through the corridors leading to the Hokage's office. He had just returned from a challenging mission. The few shinobi he crossed paths with on his way stepped aside, whispering his codename: *DarkRai*. A feared and respected ninja, whose true identity remained a secret.

Upon reaching the office, he knelt before Hiruzen Sarutobi, who observed him calmly, holding his pipe.

"Mission accomplished, Hokage-sama," Shikai said, his voice devoid of emotion.

"Well," Hiruzen replied, blowing a puff of smoke. "Come, Shikai. Join me."

Hiruzen stood up and headed towards the door leading to the roof. Shikai followed him in silence, intrigued.

On the roof, the cool breeze gently swept through the Hokage's graying hair. Below, the lights of Konoha shone faintly, projecting a peaceful image. Hiruzen leaned on the balustrade, gazing at the village in silence before speaking.

"Look, Shikai. This is Konoha. A village built on the sacrifices of generations of ninjas. What do you see when you look at this village?"

Shikai remained silent for a moment, reflecting on the question. Then he replied, in a measured tone:

"I see a chessboard, Hokage-sama. A place where each piece has a role to play. The clans, the ninjas without families, the civilians... All are necessary elements to maintain balance. But like on a chessboard, some pieces are expendable."

Hiruzen nodded slowly.

"A logical answer, but tinged with coldness. You see this village as an ANBU who has undertaken many missions should see it... without emotion."

"Isn't that what we should be?" Shikai replied calmly. "Weapons to protect what must be protected."

Hiruzen observed the young man for a moment before continuing.

"And what do you think of Konoha? Not as a ninja, but as a man."

Shikai released a discreet sigh.

"It's a strong village, but... imperfect."

Hiruzen raised an eyebrow, inviting him to elaborate.

"There are tensions, Hokage-sama. Between the clans and the ninjas without clans. The latter often feel a sense of injustice, as if they are less important. And the Hyūga system, with their main branch reducing the secondary branch to a form of slavery... it creates divisions that weaken unity."

The Hokage crossed his arms, his expression becoming more serious.

"Continue."

"I've also noticed that little Naruto is ostracized for reasons they don't even understand, while he should be treated as a hero. As for the Uchiha clan, it's clear that they are being closely watched. Which fuels a well-founded mistrust."

Hiruzen took a breath, nodding slowly.

"You are perceptive, Shikai. And your love for this village shines through despite your criticisms."

Shikai inclined his head slightly.

"Peace requires sacrifices. I will never hesitate to dirty my hands for Konoha, Hokage-sama."

Hiruzen looked at him with satisfaction. The young man seemed like a perfect pawn: loyal, talented, and yet pragmatic enough to be manipulable.

"Regarding Naruto," Hiruzen resumed, "I agree with you. But revealing the truth to him now could break him. He is still too young and fragile to bear that weight."

"I understand," Shikai replied. "And I agree. But one day, he will have to know."

Hiruzen sketched a smile and placed a paternal hand on Shikai's shoulder.

"We've done everything we could for him."

Shikai raised his eyes toward the sculpted face of Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage. His gaze was filled with sadness and respect. Hiruzen noticed this expression but made no comment.

After a long silence, Hiruzen changed the subject.

"And Orochimaru? How do you feel about him?"

Shikai turned his gaze away from Minato's face to fix the Hokage.

"I don't feel anything particular, except sadness for Tsunade-sama. He was her friend, and he betrayed her. And what he did to me... I have no intention of seeking vengeance. It's not my role. The Sannin must settle their differences themselves."

Hiruzen nodded, satisfied with this measured response.

"You are a remarkable young man, Shikai. Intelligent, patient, and loyal. But I wonder... Is there a young lady occupying your thoughts?"

Shikai remained silent for a moment before replying:

"It's... complicated, Hokage-sama."

Hiruzen laughed softly.

"Complicated, huh? Minato survived Kushina despite her temperament. You should be able to handle it. Maybe it's Izumi?"

Shikai turned his head abruptly toward the Hokage, visibly surprised. Hiruzen laughed even more.

"I know a lot of things, Shikai. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me."

Shikai averted his gaze, embarrassed.

"It's nothing like that. Izumi is just a friend..."

Hiruzen fixed him with a skeptical look.

"Really?"

After a pause, Shikai took a deep breath.

"Hokage-sama, may I confide a secret to you? You are the only person to whom I could say this. I could tell my uncle, but I'm sure he would dissuade me."

Hiruzen, curious, nodded.

"I'm listening."

Shikai lowered his voice slightly.

"I have... a liaison with Mikoto-san."

"Mikoto? Who is that? I know a Mikoto, but... Wait! It can't be!"

A silence settled, heavy and almost unreal. Hiruzen narrowed his eyes.

Shikai nodded, impassive.

"Yes, Hokage-sama."