A black flash streaked past. Fugaku drew his long blade and carved a huge chunk of flesh from the Seven-Tails. He released Susanoo, then sealed the Tailed Beast and its flesh once more.
Carrying the Jar, he headed back to Konoha. At dusk, he returned it to the Secret Chamber and went home.
He had not seen Mikoto or Itachi in some time. In the Living Room, Mikoto watched as Itachi toddled unsteadily across the floor.
After a few steps, Itachi fell. He pulled himself up against the wall and kept going.
Smiling, Fugaku scooped Itachi into his arms. "I haven't been home in a while. Let's eat out tonight."
"Okay."
That evening, the couple took Itachi to a newly opened Hotel in Konoha for a Seafood Feast.
After a satisfying meal, they strolled at an easy pace through Konoha's bustling streets.
Mikoto held Fugaku's arm and leaned against his shoulder, smiling at the child in his arms.
"It feels so good to have peace like this."
Fugaku nodded. "It does. Countless Ninja gave their lives on the battlefield, one after another, so the people of Konoha could live in peace."
The days passed in a whirl of work. Before long, it was time for the Sunagakure Wind Shadow Election. Takigawa and Kenichi gathered in the Security Force's Office.
One possessed Kamui Space; the other could travel short distances through Space-Time. Both abilities were difficult to contend with.
Fugaku entered, and the two stood to greet him.
"Clan Head."
Fugaku nodded. "Konoha has already informed Sunagakure that I'll attend the ceremony for the new Wind Shadow. You two are coming with me."
They nodded. "All right."
"But Sunagakure isn't the main purpose of this trip. I've had another plan in place for some time."
Fugaku then explained how he intended