Naruto: Escape From Konoha

"This is enough for today."

In a karst cave, built inside was an extensive training site, Rin absorbed the released Tailed Beast Chakra back into her body, then wiped the sweat off her face.

"As expected of Rin. With the rate of your progress, it may not take long to master controlling the tailed beast power perfectly."

Seeing that Rin had almost mastered becoming a perfect jinchuriki, Obito felt honored to witness the growth.

"This is also thanks to your help, Obito. I wouldn't be able to do it alone."

Rin smiled slightly, not taking the credit for it. Controlling a tailed beast was by no means an easy task, the grueling hard work woud be unbearable for even ordinary ninjas. If she couldn't perfectly control the tailed beast, the power would go berserk sooner or later due to various reasons.

Rin, however, harbored a different dream. She longed for a friendship with the Seven Tails, not just control. Currently, the goal's almost completed.

"Next..."

Before Rin could finish speaking, someone was approaching them. It was Uzumaki Kiriko.

"Obito, there's a mission for you."

Kiriko walked in, holding a scroll recording the content of the mission.

"Mission?"

Obito tilted his head. In the past two years, he had carried out missions a handful of times, mostly accompanying Rin to complete her training skills. Among the Uchiha ninjas within the Land of Demons, his pupil power was one of the few powerful ones, using his Sharingan to suppress the Tailed Beast outbreaks briefly when alone.

Kiriko didn't speak but threw the mission scroll at Obito, to let him read the mission himself. Obito caught the scroll, opened it, Rin also came over curiously from the side.

After seeing the content, both Obito and Rin opened their mouths in surprise. This was a top-secret mission. It requested Obito to act as one of Chiba Kazuhime's guard member who would be safely escorting her to Konoha.

Its an A-rank mission with reward of 500,000 ryo. If they encountered any high level danger during the mission, it could be turned into an S-rank difficult mission at any time.

"Why would Kazuhime be sent to Konoha? What exactly is Shiraishi-sensei thinking?" Rin wondered with confusion.

As Shiraishi's student, Rin had learned all of Shiraishi's true teachings, ranging from medical ninjutsu to the advanced jutsus. He had shared his knowledge with her without reservation. Based on this trust, Rin has visited his family more than once, and she has formed a relatively strong friendship with his children.

She couldn't understand Shiraishi's decision to send Kazuhime to Konoha. It seemed perplexing from every angle. It appeared improbable to send Kazuhime to Konoha due to insufficient educational advantages.

The education system in the Land of Demons was based on the Konoha's system but has undergone significant reforms, making it more comprehensive in several aspects. The education process was even more humane and diverse than Konoha's, providing a well-rounded learning experience in both ninja knowledge and other knowledge.

Theoretically, going to Konoha would hinder learning advanced knowledge, as Konoha wouldn't reveal their advanced knowledge to an outsider. If the purpose was to infiltrate Konoha with a spy, it seemed unnecessary.

Rin knew that Shiraishi was training Kazuhime as the future commander of the Land of Demons's military. But sending such a talent to Konoha as a spy, or even as his daughter would be a waste of her talent and not worth the effort.

"I heard the decision was made by Kazuhime-sama herself. She successfully passed all the special exams given by Shiraishi-sama, so they agreed to this rather unusual request. In simple terms, she wanted to expand her knowledge,"

Kiriko shared some news she had received.

"I still can't feel relieved, but if it's that child, she will perform incredibly well,"

Among Shiraishi's three children, Rin always felt that Kazuhime was the most abnormal one. Since she was a child, she displayed an extraordinary mind, mastering all the knowledge in the academy in a very short time.

What she lacked was practical experience. So, her wanting to transfer to Konoha's ninja academy should be some kind of test she had placed on herself. The thoughts of geniuses were always strange.

"But if I have to escort her there, what of Rin's training here?" Obito suddenly questioned with apparent concern. 

"Don't worry about Rin. Her training has come to an end. Even if there is an accident, I'll be able to fully deal with it here. Moreover, Konoha is your hometown too, don't you wish to visit again after so long?."

Obito choked for a moment, realizing he did have unfinished business in Konoha. His grandma was still buried there.

"I see, but what about her identity?"

Obito worried about this aspect. Although Kazuhime's surname wasn't her mother's surname, the Chiba surname was somewhat a name which irritated Konoha due to Shiraishi's past actions. Shiraishi's actions had lead to Konoha's senior management to harboring resentment towards the Chiba surname.

"Don't worry, Kazuhime-sama will be going to Konoha as the adopted daughter of the Miko-sama, entering the academy as a visiting princess there to study. Her name is tentatively set to be Mahiru Kazuhime, Konoha won't be able to find out anything," Kiriko reassured.

"And who will be guarding her inside the village?" 

Obito himself was only responsible for escorting, he won't stay in Konoha for an extended period. After escorting Kazuhime to Konoha, he will be returning back here.

"Two trained Miko will accompany her, and the military will dispatch a few disgusted elite ninjas to go with them."

In addition, Konoha's top level officials wouldn not be indifferent, as it involves the princess of a country. Since it seems to have become a diplomatic issue between the Land of Demons and the Land of Fire, the Anbu will be sent to protect her safety.

With so many layers of protection, plus the Land of Demons has no rivalry with the world, they belonged to the neutral group, no one will try to provoke Kazuhime blindly.

"I see,"

Obito acknowledged, understanding the extensive measures taken to protect Kazuhime. The ninjas accompanying them must be military elites, and the two accompanying Miko were likely powerful. In the Land of Demons, Miko held a unique position, having a power system completely different from ninjas.

Sending these Miko ensured that Kazuhime's identity was meticulously forged and flawless. Konoha might even regard her as the next Miko.

"Do you have any other questions?"

"No more. When are we leaving?"

This mission wasn't difficult. Although designated as A-rank, it sas due to the particularity of Kazuhime's identity, not the mission's inherent difficulty. For missions involving escorting princesses, state officials, and daimyo, the starting rank was at least B-rank due to the special status of the target.

"Tomorrow morning."

"It's really quick."

Just the thought of not seeing Rin for a few days made Obito's expression a little sad. However, the prospect of seeing Bakashi made Obito look forward to it.

...

The journey from the Land of Demons to the Land of fire took a total of five days.

Kazuhime finally saw the renowned Konoha. Standing not far from it, she observed the tall surrounding wall, the wide gate, and the distant ancient Hokage Rock on the cliff.

Although the Hokage rock appeared small to Kazuhime, it was still distinguishable due to its immense scale. These were iconic structures in Konoha, both familiar and unfamiliar to Kazuhime.

The Land of Demons extensively studied Konoha, perhaps understanding its essence better than Konoha itself.

The people, geography, customs, thoughts, and well-known figures were vividly presented in the textbooks of the academy in the Land of Demons.

This also included Konoha's experiences in the three ninja world wars, with the various policies adopted externally and internally discussed in their history classes.

And these histories all happened within a few decades, they were all real historical events. Therefore, Kazuhime was no stranger to Konoha's human history, potentially more informed than most of Konoha's internal personnel.

Now, she was just moving from textbooks into reality, making practical aspect valuable. Another reason for her interest in Konoha was that it used to be her parents' hometown, despite the unpleasant history between them and Konoha.

Kazuhime had no intention of intervening in the previous generation's grievances. Her purpose was to investigate and verify the knowledge she learned, without any extraneous actions.

Moreover, her time in Konoha wouldn't be long; Shiraishi gave her only two years. This didn't mean she would stay in Konoha for the entire duration. She had to return to the Land of Demons quarterly during these two years.

Thinking about the short two-year span for her practical knowledge in Konoha, Kazuhime felt the burden on her shoulders suddenly grow heavier. This was the only path to the throne of the overlord of the Land of Demons.

.....

"Then, for Kazuhime-sama various activities in Konoha, I will leave them in Hokage-sama's hands. I'll be taking my leave now."

Bowing slightly to the Third Hokage, the envoy of Land of Demons respectfully exited the office where the Hokage was located.

After the envoy left the office, Hiruzen received a letter from their side. The general content was that, as Hokage, he would attend to some of the impolite demands of the Princess.

For instance, her living environment, maintaining her identity as a princess during academy, etc. Although the envoy spoke impolitely, Hiruzen considered these requests normal, and they weren't embarrassing to him as Hokage.

Shortly, he had arranged a relatively secluded residence for the princess. Additionally, a four-member Anbu team was selected as her guards.

Hiruzen became a bit hesitant upon noticing that the guards accompanying the princess, including two Miko. Could the princess be the next Miko?

After all, being the adopted daughter of the current Miko, if canonized as the Princess, she must possess a special talent in suppressing the so-called demons.

The Land of Demons differs from many countries; its princesses are not ordinary individuals lacking special abilities. In short, Hirizhan felt the need to take this matter seriously.

Although he knew that the princess of a neutral country wouldn't provoke enemies, accidents were still possible in Konoha. He couldn't let his guard down. Fortunately, the princess would only study in Konoha for two years, easing the difficulty of Hirazan's task.

Even though external aggression against Konoha had subsided, internal challenges loomed. Hiruzen didn't have much energy to spare on this issue.

....

Today was a rare day off.

As one of the most powerful combatants in the Anbu, Kakashi had assumed the role of an Anbu captain. Previously, he was merely the team leader of a four-man team.

The Anbu comprises of four Captains, with Kakashi currently one of them. He held the distinction of being the youngest captain, at only seventeen or eighteen years old. Compared to his seniors who became captains in their thirties and forties. He was simply a different existence.

His status in Anbu was second only to the minister and deputy minister. However, those positions were held by people from the Sarutobi clan.

Kakashi knew that he might not hold the position of deputy minister or minister of Anbu for the rest of his life. Those positions weren't solely attained through the Hokage's trust, and even then the Hokage places more trust in his eldest son and daughter-in-law.

The blood bond has always been overwhelming for Kakashi. However, he didn't feel disappointed; he never expected such outcomes in the first place.

His current focus was performing his missions exceptionally, regularly conveying information to the Land of Demons, Root, and Orochimaru. However, Root and Orochimaru placed greater importance on the information he provided than the Land of Demons side.

This was due to Root being monitored by the Anbu and Orochimaru being targeted by Jiraiya and the Anbu for joining a mysterious organization.

Kakashi, as an Anbu captain, knew the movements of most the Anbu. If Orochimaru utilized the information cleverly, he could escape the Anbu's pursuit without arousing suspicion. However, if Orochimarus appeared too relaxed, the Anbu might suspect internal problems or collusion with Orochimaru. As Kakashi's status within the Anbu rises, Orochimaru appreciated him even more.

Recently, Kakashi received a large number of research materials on ninjutsu, many involving advanced knowledge of forbidden jutsu. Despite Orochimaru's unpleasant personality, his research achievements in ninjutsu were worthy of recognition, and the Land of Demons places great importance on them.

For Orochimaru's side, the knowledge inside his head was far more valuable than his strength.

After dealing with issues relating to work, Kakashi preferred not to dwell on these troublesome issues during his day off.

Over the years, he has developed a balanced schedule for training, work, and rest that suits him. Resting took various forms, and reading, in particular, was a habit he cultivated early on. He casually reached for a novel from his pouch.

The novel in question "Icha Icha Paradise." The author was Jiraiya. The official publication of this book had garnered a considerable fan base in the world, and Kakashi was among the hardcore followers.

In Konoha, Kakashi was aware of many like-minded people, even among the Anbu. The popularity of the novel was evident.

Rich love, delicate emotional lines, and occasional misfires in the plot always brought a youthful vibe to the narrative. Kakashi couldn't help but appreciate Jiraiya's storytelling ability; he truly deserved to be the legendary Sannin.

His encounter with "Icha Icha Paradise" wasn't recent. Jiraiya had sent him the first draft a few years ago. After several years of polishing, Jiraiya officially published the book.

For Kakashi, it was a long-awaited masterpiece. He got the July edition as the first edition had sold out. Despite reading it multiple times, he never grew tired of it. Reading the book became his preferred method of relaxation.

As he took off his uniform, Kakashi lay on the bed,, as he began reading with relish. No matter how many times he read it, it felt like experiencing Jiraiya's personal journey, and the skills of a Sannin were evident.

Whether Orochimaru, Tsunade, or Jiraiya, Kakashi believed they were geniuses in their respective fields.

While engrossed in the story, a sudden gust of wind from the window interrupted Kakashi's reading. The atmosphere shifted. it felt dangerous.

Kakashi closed the book calmly, turned his head to look towards the window. A black shadow swiftly sprang in, and a Kunai gleamed, stabbing towards him.

Kakashi swiftly evaded the Kunai's attack as he jumped off the bed. However, the attacker persisted, retrieving the Kunai and advancing at high speed.

Even with this level of speed few within the Anbu possessed, Kakashi considered the attacker's speed insufficient.

Landing gracefully, Kakashi bent down, striking the opponent's wrist swiftly.

The attacker let out a pain as the Kunai flew out of their hand, embedding deeply into the ceiling.

The opponent didn't intend to stop yet, they switched to Taijutsu, employing legs, feet, palms, and elbows as weapons. Kakashi found himself momentarily challenged, retreating quickly to avoid the ferocious attacks.

As Kakashi backed away, he grabbed the White Fang hanging nearby. After holding the sword, moon-white lightning emanated from the sword, radiating a sharp aura.

The attacker hesitated, seemingly wary of the sword. Seizing the opportunity, Kakashi swiftly approached, mercilessly swinging the White Fang dagger.

A surprising turn of events unfolded as Kakashi pierced through the attacker's body.

Not missing the chance, the attacer retaliated with a fierce punch to the back of Kakashi's head. Kakashi calmly turned sideways, kicking backward to force the opponent a few steps back.

"It seems you've grown in the past few years, Kakashi. Your skills are faster than before," The attacker remarked with a laugh, rubbing the injured wrist,

"I didn't expect the tail of the crane to have such skill," Kakashi responded indifferently, putting down his sword behind his back.

His attacker turned out to be Uchiha Obito.

"We should treat each other with respect from now on. Besides, I'm no longer the tail of the crane," Obito corrected Kakashi with a hint of dissatisfaction.

"Maybe," Kakashi shrugged, avoiding further discussion on the topic. Instead, he asked, "So, what brings you to Konoha at this time?"

Obito waved his hand, "No special purpose; I happened to be part of the escort team. But I'm operating secretly, Konoha isn't aware of my presence."

"I see,"

Kakashi nodded. As an Anbu captain, he understood the nature of Obito's "escort mission." Though he also couldn't comprehend why Shiraishi would send his daughter to Konoha, but it wasn't his concern.

Obito walked to the window, placing his hands on the sill, taking a deep breath. The warm summer wind flowed in, playing with Obito's hair, creating a comfortable sensation.

Obito looked at the familiar scenery of Konoha outside the window, and a trace of nostalgia flashed in his eyes. Several years ago, he lived in this village. He said emotionally:

"In addition to the mission, I also came to Konoha to pay my respect to Minato-sensei. The three of us are now separated from Konoha, I feel a little sorry for Minato-sensei."

-----

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