Night of the Nine-Tails

As time went by, Taiichi was initially quite nervous, but as time passed, he gradually got used to it.

As a soon -Minato to-be father, Minato was all smiles and showed no signs of nervousness whatsoever.

As expected of a man who could become Hokage, Taichi should learn from this mentality for Taiichi years.

However, because of Taichi Matsushita's existence, the timeline of this world has skewed to an unknown extent, and Taiichi can only grasp the general outline at present.

Just like Kushina's delivery date, and whether Obito will attack again, these have all become unknown.

The only thing Taiichi can do is to make thorough preparations and be ready to deal with any unforeseen circumstances.

Fortunately, this situation did not last long.

July 14th.

Early that morning, Taiichi, who was still doing his morning lessons, received a message from the Anbu saying that the Hokage-sama had summoned him urgently.

Taiichi knew that Kushina's delivery date must be today.

Without wasting any time, he quickly packed up, abandoned the Anbu, and rushed towards the Hokage Building in Body Flicker.

Stepping into the Hokage's Office, I found that everyone inside was present.

The Third Kazekage Hiruzen Sarutobi, along with two Advisor Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura, Jiraiya, and the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze —everyone who could come was there.

If you want to know why Tsunade, who should be here the most, hasn't arrived yet, then you have to ask that soft, fluffy bed, which is holding Tsunade's body so tightly.

When Taiichi entered, everyone's expressions turned serious.

It was Minato, the soon-to-be father, who took the initiative to greet them. However, from his tone, Taiichi could tell that he was no longer as calm as usual.

"Taiichi, I guess you've already guessed it, Kushina is showing signs of labor, and the baby will be born tonight at the latest."

Upon hearing this, Taiichi looked at everyone and saw that no one looked relaxed at all. Even Jiraiya, who was usually jovial, was now serious.

"Everyone, why are you all so serious? Today is a day to celebrate. You have to trust Kushina; she's a powerful female ninja and won't let you down."

As he spoke, he glanced at Minato and asked casually, "What, Hokage-sama, don't you even trust Kushina?"

Minato was also taken aback upon hearing this, then the image of Kushina's strong-willed face flashed in his mind, and a smile unconsciously appeared on his lips.

"You're right, Taiichi. We need to trust Kushina. She's a powerful ninja herself, and she has her own pride. She certainly wouldn't want all of us to worry about her."

"Cough cough."

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly twice, drawing everyone's attention. He then composed himself, his expression no longer heavy.

"That being said, we still need to take precautions. After all, it's the Nine-Tails. You may not have seen its true form, but it truly deserves to be called a calamity."

Hiruzen Sarutobi's reminder made the atmosphere, which had been somewhat relaxed, serious again, although everyone felt a little better than before.

Look at the experts here: both Hokage are present, as well as Jiraiya, one of the Sannin, and Taichi Matsushita, the White Reaper.

This place has the strength, the medical support, and the Sealing Jutsu experts; no one can think of any reason to fail.

"The Third Kazekage Lord is right. We cannot let our guard down. Now that Taiichi has arrived and everyone is here, let's discuss defense matters."

Minato the conversation back on track, refocusing on today's topic.

"Elder Yan, all Root ninjas in the village should mobilize and cooperate with the Anbu to monitor the entire village and prevent any troublemakers from causing trouble today."

Mitokado Homura adjusted his glasses and nodded solemnly, "Don't worry, I will fully cooperate with the Anbu operation and not give anyone an opportunity to take advantage."

Minato gave an encouraging smile, then looked at Jiraiya, "Sensei, I'll trouble you to stay by my side tonight and help me protect Kushina."

Jiraiya then stepped forward and patted Minato on the shoulder, but said nothing. Everything that needed to be said was left unsaid.

"Taiichi, you have the best mobility and experience fighting Tailed Beast, so I'll trouble you to stay at my home and provide support for all sides' actions at any time."

Upon hearing this, Taiichi frowned slightly. This arrangement, it seemed, was primarily for internal use, not external, especially with Taiichi stationed at Minato's residence. It felt like a deliberate attempt to create confusion. Could it be that Kushina wasn't giving birth at home?

Taiichi would ask questions whenever he had doubts.

"Minato, did you place the production site outside the village?"

Minato nodded solemnly, "I am Kushina's husband, but I am also the Hokage. Although I trust Kushina, I cannot allow this potential crisis to arise in the village, so—"

Okay, Taiichi understands. This is a compromise between the responsibilities of being a husband and the responsibilities of being Hokage.

Taiichi couldn't say much about it, but he still had to offer the necessary reminders.

"Senior Disciple Brother Minato, every defense has its weaknesses, especially since you're still outside the village. The defenses there are definitely not as tight as those inside. Don't forget the Space-Time Ninjutsu I reported last time; we're not the only ones in the Ninja World who know it."

Minato's smile vanished, and he nodded emphatically, understanding that Taiichi was doing this for his own good.

I will be extra careful.

Finally, Minato turned his gaze to Hiruzen Sarutobi, "Third Kazekage Hokage, tonight, I'll trouble you to oversee things from the center and coordinate the overall situation. In case anything goes wrong, I might not be able to handle it all."

Hiruzen Sarutobi of his cigarette and smiled. "My health is still pretty good. I'll keep an eye on things back-end tonight and make sure there's no trouble in the village."

After some explanation, everyone's tasks were finally assigned, and the meeting was able to conclude.

Leaving the Hokage Building, the Sun Barrier was already high in the sky, its rays casting a scorching heat across the somewhat bustling streets of Konoha. The sounds of children playing and vendors shouting mingled together, creating a scene of ordinary peace.

However, to Taiichi, this calm was like a false tranquility before a storm.

His steps appeared ordinary, but his speed was extremely fast. With a few clever turns in the crowd, he left the main road and disappeared in the Body Flicker towards his home.

Pushing open the front door, the courtyard was quieter than usual in the morning. Tsunade must have already gone out by now, either at an izakaya or a casino; she certainly wasn't at Konoha Hospital.

The maids who were sent to help have not yet returned; only Mizuki is staying home on duty today.

When Taiichi returned, she was squatting under the eaves, carefully pruning the branches and leaves of several honeysuckle plants, the sunlight outlining her serene profile.

"Mizuki." Taiichi's voice wasn't loud, but it carried a hint of solemnity.

Upon hearing the sound, Mizuki immediately put down her tools, stood up, and bowed respectfully. "Taiichi, you're back."

She keenly sensed an unusual aura emanating from Taiichi; it was a calm before the storm.

"Um."

Taiichi, and Zi Guang swept across the empty courtyard, getting straight to the point, "Tell everyone in the house that after work today, don't go anywhere else, go straight home."

Mizuki's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly replied, "Yes, Taiichi."

"Furthermore," Taiichi's voice lowered, tinged with seriousness, "If—I mean if—any major disturbance, explosion, or other unusual activity occurs in the village tonight, remember, do not try to Scout what happened, and even more so, do not join in the fun."

Your primary task is to immediately organize the villagers in the surrounding area to evacuate to the nearest shelter as quickly as possible, understand?

"Major unrest? Refugees?"

Mizuki's calm eyes were instantly filled with shock and disbelief.

A crisis requiring the activation of a shelter-level emergency? This was almost unthinkable in Konoha! She instinctively pressed, "Taiichi, what kind of danger is it that necessitates this level of escalation?"

Countless possibilities flashed through her mind: a large-scale invasion by an enemy country? A surprise attack by S-rank Rogue Ninja? A natural disaster? But each one made her heart pound with fear.

Taiichi looked at the surprise and doubt in her eyes and remained silent for a moment.

He knew that Mizuki's worries and confusion were normal, but given her status, it was better for her not to know the core secrets about the Nine-Tails and the Jinchuriki.

He shook his head slightly, his tone leaving no room for further questioning. "I can't go into the specifics right now. Just remember my words and treat them as the highest priority. Protect yourself, and protect those you can protect."

Looking into Taiichi's deep and unwavering eyes, Mizuki felt the unquestionable gaze suppress the turmoil in her heart.

She took a deep breath, swallowed all her questions, straightened her back, nodded firmly, and her eyes regained their composure and determination. "I understand, Taiichi! Please rest assured, I know what to do."

She didn't ask another question. This self-awareness and insight were precisely what Taiichi valued most about her.

"Very good." Taiichi nodded, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes. "Go and prepare."

After Mizuki turned to carry out the order, Taiichi quickly Hand Seals.

With a soft "bang," a Shadow Clone identical to his original body appeared beside him.

The two exchanged a glance, and without a word, the Shadow Clone nodded slightly, then vanished instantly as if merging into the air, heading straight for the Konoha Orphanage.

Taiichi himself went to the equipment room to prepare for the battle that might come today.

The Orphanage's courtyard was filled with the joyful laughter of children. Sunlight streamed onto the slides and swings, and Director Nonō was gently playing with a group of younger children, her face bearing a soothing smile that could comfort all pain.

Taiichi's Shadow Clone appeared silently by the courtyard gate without disturbing the children playing.

Nonō seemed to sense something, raised her head, and when she saw Taiichi, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes, followed by a knowing seriousness.

She calmly handed the building blocks to the child beside her, gave him a few words of advice, then stood up and walked lightly Earth Flow her Shadow Clone.

"Taiichi? Is there something important that you've come at this time?"

Nonō's voice was as gentle as ever, but her sharp eyes caught the seriousness on the Shadow Clone's face.

The Shadow Clone Taiichi didn't stand on ceremony and whispered, "Sister Nonō, the situation is urgent. Kushina- neechan is due to give birth tonight."

Nonō's pupils suddenly contracted, and her brows furrowed. As a former "Wandering Miko," she clearly knew the meaning behind those words.

The Nine-Tails Jinchuriki giving birth! This is practically Konoha's top secret and carries the highest level of risk!

Her fingers twitched involuntarily, but years of espionage allowed her to regain control of her emotions instantly, though her breathing became erratic for a fleeting moment.

"I see."

Nonō's voice remained steady, yet she asked in a casual, conversational tone, "What do you need me to do?"

She didn't ask any unnecessary questions and went straight to the point.

"I have the utmost confidence in your experience and abilities," the Shadow Clone said in Taiichi voice. "Tonight, please maintain the highest level of vigilance at the Orphanage. If any unusual activity occurs anywhere in the village, do not hesitate to immediately activate the Orphanage's emergency plan, protect all the children, and guide them to the sturdy basement for shelter."

"Unusual commotion—you mean, there might be other enemies taking advantage of the situation—" Nonō's brows furrowed tightly, a cold glint flashing in her eyes.

"Very likely." Shadow Clone Taiichi nodded, handing Nonō a specially made Flying Thunder God Kunai: "If there's anything you can't handle, don't hesitate, contact me immediately."

Nonō solemnly accepted the Kunai and held it tightly in her palm.

"I understand, Taiichi. I'll be careful."

Shadow Clone, gave her Taiichi deep look, nodded, and his figure vanished in a wisp of white smoke.

Almost simultaneously, on the outskirts of Konoha, near the edge of the Death Forest, deep in a dark alleyway of an abandoned Training Ground.

The air twisted and spun silently, like water with a pebble thrown in, forming a vortex-like hole from which a figure quietly stepped out.

An orange Spiral Mask concealed his face, revealing only a deep, cold, scarlet Sharingan. Obito Uchiha once again visited the village where he was born and raised.

"Ha, what a disgusting, fake peace."

He whispered, his voice hoarse and cold, his gaze sweeping over the towering Hokage Rock, faintly visible in the distance. The newly carved young face on it intensified the bloodlust in his eyes.

"Oh dear, you're complaining again?"

A teasing voice seeped from the ground near Obito's feet, and Zetsu, topped with a pitcher plant, slowly emerged from underground, "Lord Madara, you've certainly come with a heart full of 'love' in your lurking. How does it feel to 'return to your hometown'? Isn't it especially 'heartwarming'?"

Obito glanced coldly at White Zetsu, ignoring his teasing, and asked directly, "What's the situation? What's the exact location?"

Black Zetsu's calm voice silenced White Zetsu's chatter. "It's confirmed. Kushina Uzumaki was secretly moved out of the village this morning, heading towards the forest area Northern Front of the village, near the Valley of the End. Minato Namikaze, Jiraiya, and elite Anbu escorted her the entire way."

The Barrier Team has begun setting up multiple isolation and Defense Barrier at the designated location.

Her condition—signs of labor are obvious, her Chakra fluctuations are becoming unstable, and it's highly likely to happen within the next day or two, tonight.

Obito's breathing seemed to become slightly heavier beneath his mask, and his Sharingan suddenly blazed with a terrifying red light, like the eye of a ferocious beast ready to devour its prey.

"Tonight—the day has finally come." His voice suppressed a twisted excitement and a destructive desire.

"Yes, yes, tonight!"

White Zetsu reappeared, gesturing wildly and speaking with a mischievous anticipation.

"Lord Madara, you're about to reunite with your beloved teacher, the Yellow Flash! How about that? Are you excited? Aren't you looking forward to seeing his handsome face contorted in despair?"

"Tsk tsk, to destroy one's own former beliefs and teachers with one's own hands, that feeling must be very special, right?" He deliberately dragged out his words, full of nonsensical teasing.

"Shut up, White Zetsu!" Obito roared suddenly, his voice like the howl of a wounded beast, filled with the fury of someone whose deepest pain had been struck.

A strong killing intent instantly spread out, causing the temperature in the alley to drop sharply.

"What do you know?! This has nothing to do with personal grudges! This is for the Eye of the Moon! For the creation of a perfect world without falsehood, without suffering!"

Minato Namikaze —he's nothing but a stubborn rock blocking the path to peace! He must be removed! Stop with your pointless speculations!

White Zetsu exaggeratedly covered his mouth, feigning fear, but his tone remained flippant. "Wow, how scary, how scary! You're getting angry because your secret was exposed! Alright, alright, it's for the great Eye of the Moon Plan, for world peace!"

He spoke in a deliberately aria-like tone.

"You!" Obito's Three-Tomoe eyes transformed into Mangekyo, as if he were about to erupt at any moment.

"Enough, White Zetsu." Black Zetsu intervened promptly, his voice low and warning, "Obito, please focus on the mission. Konoha's defenses are being strengthened, and their Sensory Barrier are becoming more sensitive. We need to be extremely careful during our next infiltration."

17

He skillfully changed the subject, giving Obito a way out.

"I already told you, call me Uchiha Madara."

Obito's chest heaved violently as he forcefully suppressed his surging violent emotions and the sharp pain deep within his heart stirred by White Zetsu.

He glared at White Zetsu one last time, his icy gaze returning to the sky Northern Front of Konoha, as if it could pierce through the dense forest and see the heavily protected delivery room.