Authors Note: Hello everyone, I am happy to present the incredibly large chapter two for you all to enjoy. Please feel free to leave a reply or a critique. Both are always greatly appreciated. This chapter has been a little difficult...Primarily due to a poem and change in one scene, But I plowed through it. Either way, I hope you all enjoy.
Side Note: If you like my work, feel free to check out my comic Antichton: Remnants on Comixology.
Zombiemann55: I won't fully answer your question, but he's not as important as in the original series. At least in the sense that you are referring to. It will be explained with time.
Konoha Combat Academy, School Auditorium:
A chorus of voices echoed around the large room, the noise deafening to a degree. Among the crowd of students, a young teen couldn't keep the jitters from affecting her mannerisms. Her companion glanced to the girls bouncing leg and twiddling fingers. Grabbing hold of her knee, the teen held the offending limb in place. "Izumi, you need to relax."
Fiercely turning to her roommate, she spoke in a loud whisper. "Relax, How am I supposed to relax? I'm the one that fucked up, not you." Sighing at her companions plight, Hana rubbed her leg with her thumb. "But, you recovered. The last fireball you did was impressive." Shaking her head, Izumi cradled her head between her hands. "I should've listened to you. I. I'm sorry."
Noticing a few tears drip from her cheeks, Hana transferred her hand to her shoulder. "It'll be alright Izu." Shaking her head, the girl refused to look at the Inuzuka. "N. No. It won't be." Hana sighed at the situation the pair found themselves in, not entirely sure as to what could be said. Hearing the auditorium's door open, the duo spotted their two instructors and a few other adults file into the room. Each individual bore their service uniforms, a few displaying hints of flare.
"Goodmorning everyone, I hope you all had a great weekend." Pausing to allow himself a breath, he continued. "Before we start, I just want to say congratulations to everyone here for reaching this juncture." A few reciprocated his greeting with a wave or with words. The excitement and nerves were palpable to the gathered seniors. "I'm not going to hold you all here longer than is necessary, so how about we get on to the grades and team placements." Motioning for his assistant to get on with his duties, said individual went about passing around wax sealed documents.
"You all will be receiving three documents in your letter. The first will either be an acceptance or denial for your recruitment." His words brought about cries in pleasure and despair. A Nin looked over to his colleague, speaking from the side of his mouth. "You find your squad yet Anko?" Staring out at the group of Genin, her eye's roamed as they inspected the group. "Hmm. No. Well maybe." Pulling out a folder from her coat, the violet-haired woman glanced at a photo contained within. "Yep. I found one of the squirts."
"Which one?" Showing him the child's photo, the man nodded in recognition. "The hairs what gave it away. "Nodding at her reasoning, the nin looked through his dossier. "You have any genin with any flare in yours Genma? The man shrugged at her inquiry, shrugging in response. "Can't really tell. One of them seems to like the color red." Chuckling a the absurd amount of color, Anko gave off an intrigued smirk.
"On to the next paper, you will find the scores of your Graduate Exams. As many of you should already know, the Standard Exams only comprise of seventy-five percent of your grade. Many of you that didn't pass this attempt was due to a poor Standard Grade, and inadequate Specialized Grade." Gazing around at the mixed expressions of his students, the instructor continued forward. "To those that have failed, the severity of the point difference will dictate as to whether you will be granted another attempt next year."
Sighing, Hana eased her tense muscles at the eighty-eight point seven- five. Staring over her arm, Izumi's lips split into a massive grin at their results. "We're in the same bracket!" Feeling her partner embrace her arm, Hana glanced over to the Uchiha's paper to see eighty-five point six-three. Relishing in the small victory, the two overheard their teacher speak out. "For everyone that passed, your final sheet will inform you of your squad number, superior, and your squad mates." Ignoring the man, Izumi quickly pulled out the final document to scan over.
Noticing the loss of movement from her friend, Hana shifted her worry over to the last sheet. Despite her attempt to read the paper, Izumi bounded off of her seat. "We did it!" Looking over to the excited teen did little to prepare her for the tackle that followed the shout. "Hana! We're on the same team!" The Inuzuka only laughed as she hugged her squadmate in return. The pair remained on the cedar boards, rejoicing at their fortune.
Izumi's shout only evoked the rest of the class to devolve into a cacophony of elation and disappointment. A pair of chocolate eyes zeroed in on Izumi, a small smirk displayed on her lips. "Looks like I've found the other two." Turning his gaze to match Anko's, Genma gave the duo a good glance over. Chewing on his senbon, he spoke his thoughts. "Seems like a balanced squad." Shrugging her shoulder, she closed the folder in her hands. "Maybe. At least they seem entertaining."
Konoha Perimeter Wall, Main Gate:
Hearing a tumultuous chorus of voices, Shinko moved her gaze up from cobblestone road. Around the trio passed a few wagons, squads, and citizens meandering through Konoha's Primary Gate. Her grip tightened its hold upon the small scroll between her fingers, the sight of Konoha's looming walls dampening her cheeks. "W. We're. H. Home. Tenma." Feeling a hand rest upon her shoulders, Shinko turned her gaze up to her captain.
The hollow pain within his pupils spoke volumes of their shared grief.
"Come. We need to check in." Gently leading her towards the designated station, the teen's eye's roamed over to the youngest member of their group. Having yet to see any reaction from the boy, brought forth a scowl and furrowed brows. Coming up to a stop before the Gatehouse, Yuki pulled out his identification. "Captain Yuki Minazuki, returning with Squad 154, B Rank Retrieval was a success. However, we received a casualty. Chunin Tenma Izumo"
Logging the data onto a set of documents, the woman behind the counter glanced over the squad. "Hm... I'm sorry to hear that." Pulling out a clipboard, she handed it to Yuki. "Be that as it may, the three of you will still be required to undergo a full debriefing at Fort Rikona." Glimpsing over to the scroll within Shinko's hands, she proceeded. "Once you arrive, a team of morticians will admit and prepare the deceased for burial." Noticing a the teen wince at the statement, the woman sighed in resignation. Motioning them through, she watched as the group headed into the bustling city.
Arriving at the imposing stone construct, the trio of Nin checked in once more at the entrance. Within its walls, the squad sat within the lobbies waiting area. Not having to abide there time for long, a clerk stepped through a staff door. "Squad 154, you will be seen now." Rising in unison, they trickled past the secretary. Stopping at a desk, she motioned for Yuki to proceed. "Captain Minazuki, We have been informed that your squad had suffered a casualty. I presume that you are in possession of the body?"
"Oh, yes. Shinko, can you hand her the scroll." Despite the order, she shook and held the role of paper to her bosom. "Shinko?" The teen only trembled at his voice. Revolving around her foot, she made for the door. However, before she could make it past a meter, a vice grip secured her in place. "L. Let me go!" Turning around to face her transgressor, she froze at a pair of inert obsidian eyes. "Give her the scroll; it is of no use to us." Flinching at his tone, fury ebbed its way through her veins. "H. How. Could you! T. Tenma was our friend!"
"Shinko, hand her the scroll." The clerk pursed her lips at the boy's disposition, Shinko wincing at his hardened grip. "Itachi, let go of her." Yuki stated as he placed a hand onto his shoulder. Itachi ignored the call, meeting the girls gaze. Shinko tensed momentarily before unwinding. Shakily she handed the clerk the scroll; her eyes dilated a fraction. "Thank you." Turning to the receptionist desk. "Please deliver Chunin Tenma Izumo to the morgue for processing." The woman behind the desk took the scroll and placed it on a shelf for transport. "Of course mam."
Shifting her gaze back to the squad, the clerk leveled a stern expression to captain Yuki. "Captain Minazuki. Do you plan to notify his next of kin, or would you favor another officer fulfilling the duty?" Shaking his head, the man straightened ever so slightly. "No mam, he's my responsibility." Nodding in approval, she motioned for the group to follow. "Understood, once you have completed your debriefing you will have till 1300 to initiate contact. Are we clear?" Dipping his head in the affirmative, he replied. "Of course mam."
Walking further into the corridor, the clerk rounded a corner. The rest of the squad following in her wake. However, Shinko remained in place. "Miss, your teams leaving." Shaking her head, the teen's eye's refocused on to the hallway surrounding her. "W. What?" Shifting her gaze to the receptionist, she noticed her scroll tucked away amongst a few others. "Miss, your team's waiting for you." Shedding a tear, she bit her lip to silence herself. Bowing her head, she followed suit. As Shinko caught up with the ensemble, they walked off to another wing of the facility.
Arriving at an office door, the clerk paused before it and struck out curtly. "You may enter." Stepping in she spoke to the official within. "Squad 154 are here for their debriefing sir." Nodding, the man rose to his feet. "Thank you Officer Nyoko, can you send in Captain Minazuki on your way out." Dipping her head, she exited the room. "Master Sergeant Kaori will see you now Captain Minazuki. I wish you all the best." With her part spoken, she walked off to the receptionist desk. The duo watched as Yuki did as instructed, the door shutting in his tracks.
Sitting down a seat away from her teammate, Shinko gave her comrade a wavering glance. Pulling her knees up to her chest, the teen once more gave in to her grief. "Shinko you mustn't weep, it is unbecoming of a ninja." Said young woman squeezed down on to her fists, the knuckles turning white from the tension. "J. Just what the fuck is wrong with you? Don't you care about Tenma?" The boy only blinked, unfazed by her tone. "Yes, and he served Konoha Admirably. There is no place for sorrow when one's purpose is fulfilled." Astounded by the response, she merely directed her gaze to the closed door before them.
Benjiro Orphanage, Girls Dormitory:
An arm darted back and forth, searching for something hidden beneath the veiled bed frame. A grunt of frustration signaled the entry of a head. Seeing what she was in search of, Tenten pulled a pack out from underneath her bunk. "There you are." Opening the burlap sack, she went through its contents. "Hm. Where's the Jacket?" Grumbling to herself, the brunette checked under the rations to see if she could feel it. Coming up empty, the girl searched throughout her corner of the dormitory.
"You looking for something?" Wide jade iris's stared out to the hall, her body lurching at the sudden noise. "K. Kie? Don't do. That." Her voice died once she spotted the jacket and a few other items tucked under one of her arms. Walking over to her bunkmate, she dropped the articles atop her bed. "Is this what you're looking for?" The eight-year-old simply nodded at the request, her eyes fixated on to the floor. "Why?" Rubbing her foot into the ground, she hesitated for a moment. " I. I. Um. T. There for a friend."
"So, your stealing for a friend?" Shaking her head in denial, Tenten turned her head to the side. "N. No. H. He just. He needs it." Walking over to the younger child, Kie grabbed either side of her arms. "Tenten, tell me what's going on." Biting her lip, the brunette hesitated. "I. I helped a boy run away." Kie's eyes swelled at the admission, her grip on Tenten's shoulders tightening marginally. "You what! Are you crazy?" Swiveling on the balls of her feet, the strawberry blond marched her way for the door. "K. Kie! W. Where are you going?" Not taking a moment to stop, she spoke with a slight tilt of her head. "I'm going to tell Mrs. Himari. What do you think I'm doing?"
"What! No! You can't." Running up to the preteen, Tenten nearly tackled the unsuspecting child to the ground. "Tenten! What's gotten into you?" Pulling her back into the room, she forcibly shut the door. "Y. You can't." Forcibly releasing herself from the child's grasp, Kie confronted the girl barring her exit. "And. Why, not?" Poking her in the chest for emphases, Kie towered over her. "S. She. She'll hurt him." Tenten set her gaze down to her feet, a few droplets descending to the timber floorboards. Relaxing her posture, Kie benevolently inquired further. "W. What are you talking about? Who'll hurt him?"
"H. Himari." Not quite understanding her hushed whisper, she pressed on. "Who?" Looking up, her misty chestnut eyes were in full view. "Himari. Sh. She hurts him!" Furrowing her brows at the information, she straightened up. Grabbing hold of Tenten's hand, she gently pulled her back towards their bunk. "Kie?" Taking a seat on the bottom bunk, the preteen motioned for Tenten to accompany her. "Explain." Taken aback by the sudden request, the youth paused in thought. "What?"
Rolling her eyes at the girl's question, Kie expounded on her request. "You said that Himari hurts him, I want you to tell me how you know that." Bowing her head, Tenten closed her eyes. "D. Do. Do you." She paused momentarily to even out her breathing. "Do you remember the stories of the monster?" Kie creased her brows, not entirely seeing how it would relate. "The monster in the basement?" Seeing her nod, she continued. "What about it? It's just the boiler making the scary noises. There's no monster."
Shaking her head at the explanation, Tenten spoke up. "H. Himari. A. A boy was in there. H. He was so skinny, Kie." Tears began to flow freely as she choked on the words. "Af. After I. I cleaned. Him." Leaning into the older female, the child wept on her shoulder. "The. There. So many." The blonde wrapped her arms around the child, rubbing her back in an attempt to soothe her distress. " So many what Tenten?" After a few sniffles, she proceeded. "Br. Bruises. She's gonna kill him." Running her fingers through the girl's chestnut hair, the preteen thought over the dilemma.
"W. We have to tell someone. Maiya or Lady Kudo can help." Wiping her eyes, Tenten straightened herself. "They already know." Surprise etched itself onto Kie's face, taken aback by the accusation. "H. Himari was telling them. W. With a smile." Having never been presented with a predicament such as this, Kie simply sat atop the bed. "K. Kie. What do I do?" Rubbing her legs in discomfort, she laid against the bed frame. "I. I don't know." Tenten jerked her head up at the admission. "W. What? But. Y. You always do." Despite her claim, the twelve-year-old's expression displayed her uncertainty.
Clenching her fists, Tenten abruptly rose from the bed. "W. What are you doing?" Grabbing the jacket, her emerald eyes shown with purpose. "I'm gonna go help him. He needs me." Stepping away from Kie, the young girl placed the bag onto her shoulders. "I'll be back later." Kie looked up to her bunkmate, curling her lip at the issue at hand. Grunting in annoyance, she stood up to meet her. "Tenten. Stay safe." The youth merely smiled before giving Kie a warm hug. "I will." Separating from her friend, Tenten ventured off through the dormitory door.
As she left, Kie leaned against the frame of her bunk. After minutes of inactivity, she drifted into the corridor. Trudging down the steps, the orphan stopped by the end of the stairs. Voices from an adjoining room pierced through her psyche. Gazing through the corridor, she peered into the dining hall. Catching a glimpse of a burgundy braid, Kie narrowed her eye's. The orphan crossed her arms, observing as the woman tended to a few of the children consuming their breakfast. A frown marred her face as she observed Himari.
Konoha Western District, Primary Road:
"Anko, weren't we going to talk or something." Izumi stated as she skipped alongside the rest of the group. "We will, once we get to where we're going." The Jounin observed the teen from the corner of her eye as she spoke, a small grin forming on her lip at her mannerisms. "Jeez, what's with her?" Raising a brow at the sole male of their group, Hana turned to him. "What are you talking about?" Saisu glanced over to the Inuzuka walking by his side. "We're officially Ninja today, its time we started acting like it." His comment brought forth a soft glare from the Inuzuka. "Well, keep that to yourself. I won't let you take this away from her. She deserves every sliver she can get."
The comment silenced his rebuttal, not prepared for such a remark. Despite his attempt to further their dialog, another voice captured their attention. "Is that where we're going?" The energy that laced Izumi's voice molded Anko's smirk into a full smile. "Yep, she's a beauty ain't she?" Hana and Saisu merely stared at the monstrosity of the stone and mortar construct that laid before them. "You didn't say we were going to a castle!" Sweat dropped at her exuberance and misidentification, Anko simply shook her head. "Izumi. It's not a castle. That is a heavily reinforced fort. Now come on, let's get you all registered in."
Passing through the perimeter wall, the group of teens looked on at the number of personnel and armaments littering the fortress. "This is Fort Hiroshi and your new home among Konoha's ranks." Arriving at the main entrance, Anko directed her subordinates to the gatehouse. "Morning Sergeant, I've brought in some green recruits for registration." Smiling at seeing the fresh blood, he searched for the designated forms. "Oh, good morning to you as well Jounin Miterashi. If you could have them fill in the following forms, we can get them some proper identification." Nodding, she offered them each a clipboard.
"Alright, fill these out real quick, so we get this show on the road." Doing as they were told, the group fulfilled their task. "Good, let's hope that the academy sent over your photo's and testing results." Finding said documents, the officer placed the items into a small scanner of sorts. "Huh, what's that?" Instead of receiving an answer, the man simply applied chakra to the contraption. The device lit up with multiple seals and whirred to life. A few seconds passed before the light died to reveal a card ejecting from the side. "Here you go Genin Uchiha." Receiving the card with a slight frown, Izumi and her comrades looked at the piece of plastic in fascination. Chuckling at their surprise, Anko simply watched with a sense of nostalgia.
After Saisu received the last card, the new Genin were ushered in through the gate. "Now that you all are registered. Y'all will be expected to arrive, check in, and report to me on the days we are scheduled for active duty or training. Is that understood children?" Noticing a bristle at the comment from Saisu elicited a chuckle from the woman. "Relax kid, don't let me or anyone else push your buttons. A decent Nin stays level-headed in any circumstance, that includes friendly turf." Noticing him blanch at the slip, she offered him an approving nod. "Good, how about we get onto business." Coming up to a large opening in the granite hall, they exited into a massive expanse of grassland, a few trees, and equipment.
"Do any of you know where we are and why." Recognition flashed before Hana's eyes as she stepped further into the area. "We're in the Inner Bailey." Dipping her head in approval, Miterashi motioned for the teens to trail her. "Correct. And when we aren't in an active engagement, or on duty, we will use this courtyard for training. Now that we're here, we can get on to the assessment and squad training." Seeing the Uchiha raise her hand with a little wave, she called on the teen. "What is it, Izumi?"
"Oh. Well, didn't we already take a test?" Shrugging off the question, Anko provided her reasoning. "A report is never as good as a live demonstration." The older woman's predatory smirk brought about an inkling of tension to the teen's muscles. "Let's see if the three of you are worth your marks." Stomping on to the ground, a pulse of chakra revealed runic symbols engraved onto a marble cube embedded within the earth. Energy within the structure exploded out and fused to form a translucent barrier around the team. Hana's eye's widened at the implications of Miterashi's maneuver. "Shit! Move!" Springing away from their initial position, she retrieved her combat bow from her back. "Good! Now let's begin!"
Her fellow teammates followed in her actions. Hana observed as Anko pulled Kunai's out as she ran to meet them. "Saisu, engage! Izumi, support him!" Adrenaline pumped through the boy's veins, his body moving to the command. Smirking at the attempt, Anko went in for a slash. Sliding beneath the strike, Kamano brought in his fist for a hook to her kidney. The elder Nin blocked with a knee. Preparing to lash out with her fist, Anko was forced to duck beneath the blade of Izumi's swift Katana. Sensing an incoming threat, she spun horizontally and cut an arrow out of the air.
Landing gracefully onto her foot, Anko spun in the midst kicking out Saisu's legs. Placing a palm thrust into his abdomen, Miterashi launched the boy into the dirt. Hana trembled as her teammate's body flew past her. Affixing another arrow onto her bow, she aimed for another shot. Despite her best efforts, her superior closed in the distance and knocked her bow to the side. The action sent the arrow to strike against the erected barrier harmlessly. Before she could recognize the danger, a knife found itself pressed against her neck. "Not bad, but you three are as green as they can get." Stepping away from Hana, Anko pocketed her kunai.
"Alright, everyone up. Let's have a quick chat." Rubbing her neck, the Inuzuka glanced around the field until she spotted Izumi laying on the ground. A small groan preceded the teen before she rose up to meet them. "Hana your initiative to direct your teammates and strike when my footing was compromised is commendable." Hana produced a small smile at the modicum of praise. "But, you left yourself vulnerable staying in the same spot. Remember, don't become a one trick pony." Hana shakily nodded at her words. Moving on to the sole male of the group, she critiqued his effort. "As for you Saisu, your powerful and precise with your taijutsu. But, you telegraph your moves. You should incorporate feints and increase your speed." Frowning at the criticism, he gave a rigid dip.
"Finally, Izumi you did an okay job in covering for Saisu. The two of you complement each other quite well. But, you need to stop overextending your swings." Receiving a dip in recognition, Anko inquired further on their short match. "So. Did any of you learn anything?" Looking around at their pensive faces, she moved to speak. However, Hana's voice interjected before she could open her mouth. "Um. I. It was a lot shorter than I thought it would be." Miterashi responded in affirmation. "It was, wasn't it? A real fight doesn't last more than a minute. But, most don't even last more than a few seconds."
Her words sunk into their psyche, the mere thought startling. "Well, we didn't come here to sit around, now up." Motioning the teens onto their feet, she pulled out another kunai. "W. Wait. We're going again?" Her answer came in her familiar predatory smirk and snickered. Raising their defenses, the squad gave each other a quick glance. Deciding to provide the group with a goal, Anko elaborated on her thoughts. "This leg of your training ends when one of you land a solid hit on me. Sounds like a good deal, right?" Not allowing them a moment to consider the proposition, she sprung off towards the nearest genin.
Benjiro Orphanage, Perimeter Woodlands:
A twitch of an ear responded to the plethora of birds chirping their songs in the fresh morning air. Cracking an eye open, a small whiskered child winced away from a ray of light. Its band permeated through the intertwined branches above him. Blinking away his exhaustion, the petite blonde yawned. He looked around at the green field that surrounded its little stick fort, gently rising to his feet. Exiting the conical encampment, the boy looked up to a vibrant bluebird gliding through a Maple. Turning his head in curiosity, the child observed the chirping fowl. In an attempt to imitate the sound, a guttural noise emanated from his throat.
The offending sound startled the creature from its perch. Its cerulean feathers fluttered through the spring air. Pouting at the departure, his eyes roamed around the foliage. Plopping onto the soft grass, the orphan observed the few creatures it could find. Minutes drew by the boy, his little fingers picking at an Anemone. The flowers delicate and velvety white petals yielded to his touch. Wistfully observing the bloom, a light snap alerted his senses to another presence. Glancing toward the sound, the boy's eye's searched the surrounding foliage.
A brief moment drew by till motion drew his pupils to a spotted brown pelt. Freezing at the sight of the new creature, his thin frame tensed in preparation. Its amber iris's gazed on to the child in curiosity, its short tail twitching in anticipation. The seconds ticked by the pair, a fresh breeze lifting strands of the beast fur. Without warning, the feline turned its head and plodded further into the undergrowth. Easing at the cat's departure, the boy released a shaky breath. Standing for a better view, he searched for any sign of the creature's body. Curious about the new species, the blond ventured toward the treeline.
Looking around the forest floor, an ebony blotch caught his eye. In the midst of the rays, that pierced their way through the canopy, resided a linx. Its limber frame springing up and onto a fallen oak. Prouncing off further into the woodland, the boy displayed an intrigued smile onto his lips. His whisker-like markings quirking at the action. Easing himself onto all fours, the child attempted to emulate the creatures gate. The difficulty of the task became apparent when presented with the uneven terrain. Having stumbled about for a minute, the blond came across the same log the feline had vaulted atop of.
Bending down and pressing his chest against the turf, he shook his rump before he lept. Splaying out his arms, the child wildly grasped at the corrugated bark. His fingers found purchase, effectively halting his descent. With a sigh and a grunt, the boy shakily drew himself atop the tree. Panting, the boy looked about the wooded landscape. Blue eyes lost their glimmer at having missed the large cat. Dismounting off the trunk, he trudged forward in search. However, in his wake, a shadowy figure sprung up atop his previous spot. The creatures amber eye's focused entirely on the young human.
Sniffing in an attempt to locate the elusive beast, a hiss startled the child into whirling around. Staring up to the origin of the sound, it came face to face with another whiskered being. The cat lowered itself, hissing once more. Backing away from the noise, the child looked on warily. Noting his caution, the feline backed off. After a few long seconds, it sat on its haunches. Recognizing the relax in posture, the blond replicated the action. For a few moments, nothing occurred between the pair. Then the creature tilted its head curiously. Without warning, it dropped down to the ground before the boy.
Yelping in surprise, he backed up and fell onto his rear. Quickly nearing the startled child, the beast came within inches of his person. It sniffed at his face, its nose crinkling at the lingering scent of kerosene. Holding his breath, the boy remained frozen. After a few moments, the cat rubbed its head against his cheek. Having claimed the child, it brushed its back against his chest. Hesitating for a moment, a burst of nerve coursed through his body. Ever so slowly, the boy rose a hand to the beast. With its back against him, the child gently felt its soft fur between his fingers.
Not receiving a lashing for the action, the child proceeded to rub along the back of his neck. A deep purr emanated from the felines chest, and it rounded back to rub itself against his person. Smiling at the action, the boy giggled when its rough tongue lapped at his cheek. Separating from the human, the large feline stepped toward the log situated in front of the pair. Setting its body into a crouch, it sprung atop the timber. Taking a seat, it watched the boy in question. Staring out in awe, a flash of determination emblazoned within his pupils.
Mimicking the feline, the blond crouched a the base of the fallen tree. With an exertion of force, he made it slightly higher than his previous attempt. Clawing at the rough exterior, the child pulled himself over the hurdle. Seeing as the boy had mad its way to his position, the feline trecked over to a gap. Following in example, the eyes of the orphan widened. The beast trotted and sprung onto an adjacent log. Seeing the cat wait on the other end, the boy audibly gulped at the rift. Closing his eyes in preparation, he ran on all fours. Leaping over the divide, a rush of adrenaline and exhilaration brought a jubilant cry from his parted lips.
Benjiro Orphanage, Perimeter Woodlands:
Trudging through the mossy turf, a brunette gazed at the many trees surrounding her. Grunting in frustration, Tenten inspected the foliage for any sign of the familiar grassy clearing. "Come on. Where are you?" Brushing past another limb, she caught sight of a brighter area behind an assortment of trees. Quickly weaving her way through the hardwoods, Tenten abruptly arrived into a field. Looking around, a grouping of tree limbs garnered her attention. "Finally! That took forever." Glancing up to the sun at the peak of its ascent, she rushed off to the little stick hut.
"Hey! I'm here!" Peering into the shelter, the girl's eyes failed to spot her charge. "Oh, no!" Moving through the field, Tenten frantically searched for any sign of the boy. Cupping her hands over her mouth, she called out to the missing child. "Hey!" About to shout out a name she paused. "Crap, what was his name?" Scratching her head, the orphan once again shouted out into the woods. "Hey! It's Tenten! Where are you?" Seconds drew by without a single sign of the child. Biting her lip, she debated over what to do. "Hm. He can't be far." Going over to her deposited pack, she lifted it onto her back.
Turning back around, she blinked owlishly at spotting a figure sitting at the edge of the clearing. "That was easy." Smiling at her luck, she waved the boy over. "Hey, come here." Making her way over to the child, Tenten stopped in response to his actions. Walking on all fours, the boy trecked his way over. Bewildered by his gate, the girl grew flustered as the boy rubbed his head against her thigh. "W. What are you doing? Stop that." Pulling him up to his feet, a look of uncertainty expressed itself on to the blonds face. "Forget it; I bet you're hungry."
Leading him over to the semifunctional hut, she motioned him inside. Looking over the construct, she frowned. "Rain's gonna get in." Tenten stated as she examined all of the gaps in the thin branch walls. She felt the bark of one limb, a glimmer of concern on her lips. Pushing the issue aside, the orphan took a seat by the boy. "I. I know it's not much, but I brought you some snacks." Pulling out a burlap sack, Tenten untied the cord securing its contents. The child cooed at the scent that lingered to his nose, his wide and wavering eyes pressing for permission. "Here, take some." Rifling through the assortment of provisions, the whiskered child retrieved a handful of dried fruit, nuts, and strips of jerky.
Smiling at his enthusiasm, Tenten drew out a leather flask. "Here, you need to drink." The girl offered the canteen of soft ale. Her charge greedily drank the earthy golden broth as she helped herself to her rations. Minutes drew by the pair, lost in the midst of their lunch. Feeling a weight rest on her shoulder, Tenten brought a hand up to caress his scalp. Seeing him slow in his consumption, an idea came forth with a smile. "Hey, you wanna play a game?" Her question received a blank stare. "Right. You don't talk. Um. Come here." Rising, she helped the blonde to his feet. Dragging him into the warm sunlight, an eager grin formed on her lips.
"Okay. Hm. I'm. Going. To. Hide." The orphan elaborated on her words through the use of her hands. Pointing to herself and then to the surrounding foliage, she proceeded undiscouraged by his perplexed look. "Then. You. Will. Find. Me." Scratching her head at his confusion, Tenten considered another option. "Alright, stay here." Walking off into the trees, the brunette felt the boys presence at her rear. Turning around, a small sigh escaped her. "No. Stay over there." She directed the boy back to his original spot. "Now. Stay." Leaving her hands up in a placating manner, she went for the treeline.
His pout almost made her reconsider the game, but she held firm. Climbing up and over a fallen tree, she cupped her hands around her mouth. "Alright. Come and find me!" Waiting patiently for a few moments, she grumbled when she couldn't hear anything. Peaking out from her cover, she spotted her companion till sitting in the grassy field. "Hey! Come!" Seeing him stir at her call, she crept back once more. "Good, now come and find me!" Retaking her spot, she hid within a crook in the branch. The boy hesitantly wandered further into the trees, crouching warily at the edge. Sniffing the air, he frowned.
Noting a low hanging mossy branch, he slowly approached it. The orphan shifted his stance mid treck, converting his gate from a bipedal to that of a quadrupedal creature. Pouncing up to the top of the limb, he quickly ascended it to its origin. Now with a higher vantage point, he scanned the surrounding olive turf. "Where is he?" Tenten whispered to herself, adjusting ever so slightly. Spotting a hint of movement in his periphery, the boy focused on a log a few meters to his right. Nothing happened for a few minutes, then without preamble, a familiar pair of emerald iris's appeared out from behind the toppled timber.
Gradually creeping forward, the child quietly sprung on to a neighboring piece of lumber. Crawling to the ground, the blond silently snaked his way through the underbrush. The boy purposefully avoided any stick or leaf on his path. Arriving at the base of the trunk, the blond pounced to the top. Tenten grunted after some time, rising from her position. Turning around, she froze when her eyes came within inches of a pair of azure eyes. "Gyah!" Collapsing back onto her rear, she stared over to the boy squatting above her.
"Geeze. D. Don't do that!" Taking in a deep breath, Tenten watched as the child dropped down to meet her. Sighing at his concerned expression, the girl righted her posture. "Come here." Waving the boy closer, she put on a strained smile. As he came closer, she pulled the child into her lap. "It. It's alright. You. You just scared me." Ridding herself of such thoughts, Tenten nuzzled the boy's cheek. "But, you did really good!" Smiling at the praise, the child giggled at the attention.
Lifting off of the ground, the brunette placed the boy down onto his two feet. "Okay, it's your turn to hide." Poking him on the nose to accentuate her statement, his nostrils crinkling at her touch. "Now, go." Gently pushing him away, Tenten motioned for the child to hide with her hands. Hesitating for a brief moment, the whiskered boy heeded her order. Wondering off, he paused to glance back. Vanishing into the woods, Tenten waited a minute before following after him. "Hm. He's like Oki."
Uchiha Clan Compound, Chief's Dwelling:
An ebony eye came into view as it squinted at a red marble. Placing a fist around a circular mat, a boy pressed against a white marble in his hand. With an explosive release, his thumb launched the sphere. Rolling over the cloth, it collided with the crimson marble. The impact resulted in the scarlet object to run past the boundary line. "I. I did it! I won!" The black-haired child jumped onto his feet, both of his arms lifted into the air in celebration. A mirthful chuckle emanated from an older male sat on the opposite end of the playing rug. "That you did Sasuke. Did you see that Miko?
"I did! Good job honey." Beaming at her praise, the child reclaimed his seat atop the floor. "Hey, mama. You wanna play too?" Drying off the moisture from her last set of plates, she nodded. "Oh, that would be fun. Sure, just give me one-moment hun." Taking a moment to register her words, he smiled and reached to pull out another set of marbles from a cedar box. "S. Sasuke. What have you done?" Blinking in mild surprise, the Uchiha looked up to his father. It was at that moment the boy flinched back from his fathers wide and weary eyes. "W. What's wrong papa?"
Bowing his head in despair, he shook it to and frow. "Y. You've brought about our destruction." Bewildered by the response, he leaned in curiously. "I. I don't get it." Slumping his shoulders, the older Uchiha lifted his head to meet his son's gaze. "For all of the years that I've been with your mother, I have only ever beaten her once at marbles!" His whisper escalated with every word, his iris' wavering at his tone. A small gasp arose from the child's lips, his pupils darting off to the side to look at his mother. "Really?" Seeing his son display a sense of awe and worry brought an amused smile to the older Uchiha.
"Yes, when I was your age. She was the queen of marbles! She'd beat everyone on the playground." Chuckling at the stories affects, he smiled as his wife's eye twinkled at his declaration. "Oh hush, you've beaten me more than once." Finishing with her duties, she wiped her hands against a towel. "That one on our honeymoon doesn't count; I know you let me win it!" Pointing at the woman in accusation, she smirked and placed her hands on her hips. "Well, if that the case. Then you've never beat me!" Eyes widening in surprise the man sputtered out a response. "W. What! Tha. That's absurd." Rolling her eyes, she went back into the kitchen to put away the rag. "Well, I always thought of it as in early birthday present."
Freezing mid-sentence, Fugaku deflated in despair. "Mama, what happened to papa?" Glancing back, Mikoto simply chuckled at the man's antics. "Oh quit your moping Fugaku." Before the man could respond, the sound of the front door opening stole the trio's attention. "Itachi!" Sasuke quickly sprung off the ground and charged at the older boy. Colliding with the older teen, the child securely wrapped his small arms around the Itachi's waste. "Hello, Sasuke. I see that you are doing well." Patting his sibling atop his head, a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "I am! Oh. Oh! How's the mission? You fight bad guys?" Forcefully separating from Sasuke's grasp, he walked over to a wall rack to hang up his pack. "It went well."
Stepping into the family room, he confronted Fugaku gingerly rising from his perch. "Good afternoon father." Smiling at the boy, he pulled him into a one arm embrace. "Oh, its good to have you back. We were getting a little worried there." Leading the teen to the kitchen, the patriarch brought him to meet his mother. "I'm so glad your home." Mikoto enveloped the teen in a warm hug. Stiffly patting her on the back, Itachi haphazardly separated from the woman. "What took you so long? You were supposed to be back days ago."
"Hm. We ran into some, complications." Joining the family in the decently sized kitchen, Sasuke stared up curiously. "Something Happen?" Itachi felt a large hand grip his shoulder, his father looking on to him with concern. "I can't say much. But, we came across Iwa data smugglers on our patrol. Our retrieval operation was a success but at the cost of Tenma's life." Covering a gasp with a hand, Mikoto pulled the boy into her arms once more. "O. Oh, Itachi. I. I'm so sorry." Hesitating for a moment, the teen reciprocated the action — his mother shedding the tears for both of them.
Noting his son's stoic appearance, he looked down to find Sasuke's perplexed face. Scrunching up his lips, the Fugaku placed a hand behind his boy's back. "Hey, Sasuke. Why don't you go set up your marbles?" Gazing up at his father, a waiver in his eyes displayed his concern. "Papa. W. What's wrong?" Sighing, he gently pulled the young child along with him. "It. It'll be alright Sasuke. It. Itachi just has some stuff to get through, alright." Receiving a reserved nod, the older male turned at the sound of feet crossing the hall. Finding his eldest walking to his room, the patriarch shifted his gaze towards the kitchen.
Seeing Mikoto left in his wake, he walked over and took the woman into his arms. She shuddered at the situation they found themselves in. "O. Oh, Fugaku. Ch. Chiyo must be devastated." Her haggard whisper ruffling his shirt. Rubbing her back, Mikoto's hands tightened into fists. "F. Fugaku, go and talk with him. He may not show it, but I know he's hurting." Sighing in reply, he rubbed his head in thought. "Alright." Looking back to the family room, he spotted his youngest son fidgeting with a marble. "While I go check on Itachi, why don't you spend some time with Sasuke.
Nodding in agreement, the two separated. Seeing her wipe her eye's, Mikoto took a seat by Sasuke's side. Her strained smile, eliciting him to take the first steps down the hall. Coming across the door, he gave a solid knock. "Hey, Itachi. You mind if I come in for a moment?" Not hearing a sound for a few moments, he tried once more. "Itachi?" A few seconds drew by without a word. Then before he could inquire further, a soft voice pierced through the silence. "Come in." Stepping inside the room, the patriarch took in the sight of his son writing at his desk.
Not entirely sure as to how to approach, he stood there without uttering a word. Releasing an inaudible sigh, Itachi yielded in his activity. "What is it father, I am busy." Keeping his pupils focused on his work, he paid little mind to his fathers shifting stance. "Look. I. I just wanted to tell you that I am here if you need me. Whether it's to talk or." Interrupting the man's train of thought, a slight frown formed at the corner of his lips at the thought. "I know, father. There's no need to worry; I'll be alright. Thank you for the sentiment." Shuffling on the balls of his feet, Fugaku gave a hesitant nod.
"I see. Well, then I'm glad to hear that." Grabbing the door handle, he paused in an attempt to say more. Not finding the words, he bowed his head and closed the door. For a moment, nothing occurred in the placid room. Retaking his pen, he continued to write in his journal. Tensing his grip on to the instrument, a meager smirk crawled its way across his lips. "Bemoaning your sacrifice will help no one." Itachi's hunched over frame reflected off of the dimmed window as blood trickled down from cheeks. A faint scarlet glow steadily grew from the sockets of his skull. "No, your passing will serve a greater purpose then fruitless sorrow."
Benjiro Orphanage, Perimeter Woodlands:
Panting amidst the field of flowers and grass, Tenten stared out absently to the clouds drifting overhead. Amidst her peaceful rest, another breath disturbed the moment. Angling her head, the brunette focused in on the limp form of her companion. Wincing at his labored breaths, she lightly tussled his hair. "We should've stopped sooner. I." Shaking her head at her oversight, Tenten eased herself onto her side. Laying beside him, she gazed at the boys sleeping face not even a foot from her own. "H. How are you a monster?"
Drifting her fingers past his locks, the orphan gently cupped his cheek. Lifting her palm, Tenten traced the whiskers that marred his face. The sole feature she found that differentiated him from everyone else. "T. This can't be it. Right?" Frowning at the train of thought, Tenten resorted to closing her own eyes. Minutes drew by without any movement from either child, both fastened to the tranquility of the field. A faint breeze caressed the girls exposed arms, the stimulus eliciting her eyes to open. Sighing, she forced herself to greet the evening sun. Noting that the shadows have grown significantly since her last bout of consciousness, Tenten eased herself upright.
Allowing for a moment to stretch, the eight-year-olds mind wandered back over to their little camp. "He needs to eat." A light rumble of her stomach brought her thoughts back onto herself. "We both do." Rising from her position, Tenten kneeled before the boy. Gently shaking his shoulder, she attempted to stir him. "Come on, wake up. It's time for dinner." Hearing the child make a soft mewl in the negative at her calls brought about an amused smile. "You're getting up. One way or another." Inserting her arms under his back and knees, Tenten grunted as she lifted him into her arms. The action evoking a soft cry. "Oh, calm down. I'm not gonna drop you."
With moderate ease, Tenten made her way through the lush field. Ducking under the low hanging roof of the abode, she took a seat against the tree at the rear. Feeling a shift from the child in her arms, the orphan glanced to her chest to find the boy curling up against her. A small scowl formed on Tenten's lips at the situation she found herself in. "You're supposed to eat your dinner, not to go back to sleep." The irked whisper did little to rouse the boy. Not having the will to force the child off, she succumbed to the circumstance. Reaching around a root, she retrieved a familiar sack of provisions.
Sticking her hand into the bag, the youth acquired a handful of grains and dehydrated fruit. Placing them in front of his nose received a stark lack of acknowledgment. "Hey, here's some food. You need to eat." Shaking him gently, the only response that met Tenten's shake was his seemingly perpetual labored breaths. "Hey. You okay?" Lightly slapping his cheek, she bit her lip in worry. His eyes slowly cracked open, his head lying limply against her. "Hey, wake up! Come on, stay awake!" Shaking him, she tried to keep him alert. Rubbing her thumb across his lips, she scrunched her brows at their dry and crisp texture.
Lifting a flask from its place against a root, the brunette plucked the cork out with her canines. "Come here; I got you." Holding his head, Tenten gently eased his mouth apart with her fingers. Her forefinger accidentally slipping past his lips and hooking his cheek. "What the?" Blinking at her incidental intrusion, the girl blanched at the parched and viscous surface of his inner cheek. "Here, come on. Drink!" Placing the leather spout against his lips, Tenten slowly rotated the container. Allowing for a moderate trickle of the amber ale to seep into his mouth, the child waited for any reaction.
Seconds drew by without a blink. However, a light gag jolted the boy to move his lower jaw. "There you go, come on." Hearing a gulp, Tenten sighed. A modicum her stiffened shoulders eased at the noise. "Good boy." Cooing at his efforts, she eased more fluid into his awaiting gullet. As the minutes passed, Tenten paused in her actions. "Give me a second." Towing her bag over by the straps, she rifled through its pockets. "Found it." Her hand retrieved a small burlap sack stuffed to its brim. Placing it atop of his lap, her digits fiddled with its cord. "Here, you'll like it." Retrieving a vibrant red bulb, she set the object against the boy's lips.
"Come on, try it. Oki loves it; you will too." Nibbling at the berry, a lopsided smile formed on her lips. "There, it tastes good. Right?" Her thumb caressed his cheek as he slowly enjoyed the morsel. "I. I was gonna give them after dinner. I thought you might like them." Finishing it off, Tenten secured the bottle once more to the blonde's lips. "You know, that was a strawberry. Well, a candy one." No longer tense, her green eyes took a moment to scrutinize his protruding ribs and fragile build. "I. I did this. W. We played too much. I. I'm sorry." Lowering her head, Tenten placed her crown against his own.
Lifting her head, she gazed down into his half-lidded blue eyes: an unreadable sentiment present as they wavered, a single tear traversing to the cotton of her shirt. "I. I can't leave you. Not like this." Adjusting her gaze to the horizon, the descent of the sun was clear. The hour trickled by as she helped him finish his provisions. Hoisting him up, Tenten laid the boy to rest against a root. "Just, wait a second." Scrounging through the other items, she had lugged with her; a thick roll was pulled from behind another root. Unfurling the canvas mat, the girl set it over a mat of straw. "Let's get you in bed." Gently retaking him into her arms, the child relocated the boy on to the cot.
Rotating on the balls of her feet, she moved toward the opening in the structure. However, her movements were hindered by a hand weakly clasping her own. Glancing back, she spotted the boy gaze out pleadingly. "Don't worry; I'm not going anywhere." Tenten tenderly forced her hand out of his grasp. Maneuvering towards the hole in the branches, she picked up a few limbs piled in a corner. Weaving them together, she formed a barrier to the world. Nodding to herself, Tenten returned to the child's side. The boy's half-lidded eyes remained firmly on her darkening silhouette. "I'm here. Rest now." Laying down by his side, she drew a wool cover over the pair.
Fort Hiroshi, Primary Bailey:
"Get up; we're not done here." Balling her fists, Hana shuddered as she shifted on to her side. "H. How. Heh. H. How are we? Heh. N. Not done?" Her legs remained limp as she shakingly propped her torso up with her arms. A little groan reverberated from the Uchiha at her side. "F. Fuck, my back." Sweat and grime coated her figure along with the rest of her team. "I. I don't. Th. Think I can. D. Do anymore." Panting a few feet away, a low growl reverberated in Saisu's throat. "Well, ain't that tragic. Now up!" Anko's order brought the boy to claw at the ground, his hand curled into a spasming fist. "Argh, g. Get. Get up." Punching the ground, the teen deliberately forced his legs under him.
Wobbling on his spread feet, he put up a defense as sweat dripped into his eyes. "Y. You wanna go. T. Then let's go." Giving him a once over, she glanced to his compatriots. Not seeing the girls make a move, Anko disregarded them. "Alright, show me everything you've got!" Gulping in deep and haggard breaths, Saisu fell forwards. Catching himself, the teen charged at Miterashi. "Heh." Springing away from the telegraphed punch, Kamano planted his foot and spun. "Aaargh!" Dispensing what residual chakra he held within his coils, a blinding and volatile discharge of electrical current enveloped his open palm. "Ah, shit!"
Swinging his hand around in an arc, Sasisu released the erratic and potent bolt to streak across the sunset lit courtyard. The lively cerulean hues consolidated with the golden values on the ground. Grunting in the effort, Miterashi swiftly unsealed a steel bo staff from her vambrace. Stabbing the object into the earth, Anko dove and rolled into a crouch. In milliseconds the lance of current struck the grounded rod. The object quickly diverted the electricity harmlessly into the clay, its essence dissipating into nothing. Saisu's eyes slowly rolled into the back of his skull, the remaining inkling of consciousness vanishing. Anko's pupils fixed onto the fallen genin, her breath releasing at the loss of the threat.
Relaxing her stance, she stepped evenly towards the embedded pole. "Well, that was a disappointment." Hana grit her teeth at the statement. "W. What the fuck. Heh. I. Is wrong with you? H. He. He just put his all into that, and you're disappointed! How dare you!" Anko's head jerked toward the Inuzuka. "How dare I? What makes you think I was referring to him?" Quickly stepping over toward the still downed teen, Mitarashi leveled a sneer. "No, I'm not disappointed in Saisu. If anything I'm pleased with his effort. It's you two that I'm disappointed in." Staggering onto her haunches, Izumi looked on at the two with her mouth agape. "W. What?"
"Zip it Uchiha; I don't want to hear it." Izumi's hair stood on end at the woman's words, yet the teen kept silent as her instructor paced over to the fields epicenter. The stone plate glowed at the influx of chakra, the hidden barrier shimmering as it dissolved into the atmosphere. "Get up girls; we're done here." Arriving at the downed male, she hefted him atop her shoulders. "I expect to see you both here tomorrow, is that understood?" Seeing a single nod, Miterashi brought forth a small scowl. "I said. Is. That. Understood?" Blanching back at her tone, Hana dipped her head to the side. "Y. Yes, mam."
Regarding the Uchiha, as she followed the Inuzuka's example, Anko approached the pair. "Now, go home, eat, and get some rest. We'll begin training at eight." Lightly ruffling Hana's chestnut locks, Anko's eyes providing Izumi with a modicum of warmth. Venturing off to the edge of the bailey, Izumi's pupils lingered on their teammate's limp figure. "H. Hey, A. Anko. Wait." Halting in her advance, Miterashi turned glimpsed back. "What is it, kid?" Releasing a light growl, she retorted. "Wha. What're you gonna do? With Saisu?" Raising a lavender brow, the instructor placed a hand onto her hip? "I'm taking him home, or do you guys wanna carry him?"
Not receiving a peep from the two, the instructor continued out through the primary hall. "T. That, sucked!" Collapsing onto the soil, Izumi expelled a lengthy breath. "Well, it was eye-opening." The Uchiha rolled her head to the side, her flint eyes drooping in their moment of inactivity. "Hey, Izu? What are you doing?" Hana simply received an incomprehensible grumble. "Oh no, you don't! Get your butt up." With a light kick to her companion's hip, Izumi bucked at the force. "W. What. The fuck. Hana! Why'd you do that for?" The Inuzuka crossed her arms, her furrowed brow aimed directly at the Uchiha.
"I am not carrying you back home. So get up." Planting her hand between the blades of grass, Hana drove herself onto her to feet. "There goes that idea." Grunting in the exertion, the ebony haired teen pushed herself onto her bottom. "Here, let's get going." Accepting the offered hand, Izumi was pulled into a partial embrace. "T. Thanks, Hana." Securing her partners hand around her neck, the duo trecked out through the establishment. As the sun descended past the horizon, the pair were treated to the evening shades. Their vibrant orange hues embodied the encircling clouds and mountains.
"Y. You know. I. I don't think we can keep doing this." Shifting her head to better view her partner, Hana found her eyes affixed to the cobblestone path. "What are you talking about? We've just started." Nodding in acceptance to that fact, the Uchiha bit her lower lip in thought. "But. C. Can we keep doing this every day? For fuck sake, all we did is get our asses beat all day! H. How are we supposed to keep up?" Sighing at her downcast expression, Hana fondly rubbed her lower back. "Well, I don't think we'll be doing this again anytime soon. But if we do; we'll endure it together, like we always do."
Not responding outright to the declaration, Izumi gave her roommate a small squeeze. "H. How can you be so sure." Her shaky tone drew out an even response. "We've handled worse, and this will be no different." Minutes flew by as the two took in the suns departure, the obsidian sky illuminating from the thousands of visible stars. Ripping her eyes from the spectacular view, Hana spotted a familiar complex. "Hey, Izu." Tilting her head, said Uchiha focused on her. "Hm?" Rolling her eyes at the nonverbal response, she pressed on. "You want anything special for dinner?"
Benjiro Orphanage, Perimeter Woodlands:
Ethereal bands of sterling light filtered in between a web of branches. Cracking an eye open at a particularly luminous beam, a surreal and gelatinous emerald glistened in the radiance. "W. What the?" Tenten whispered to the crisp air, wisps of vapor expelling at her words. Squinting at the unwelcome intrusion, she waited for her pupils to contract. "W. Where am I?" The child shifted in an effort acquire a better look around, yet a figure draped across her torso forced a pause. "Huh, Oki?" Not sensing a response, Tenten gently pulled the cover from over the lump. "W. Wait. It. It's you. Huh. D. Did I stay over?"
Shutting the lids of her eyes, the orphan moved her pupils in tune with the memories she dug through. "O. Oh, yea. That happened." Turning over and onto her side, the girl pulled the petite boy up to the crook in her neck. "There you go." His sickly complexion only shone further in the alabaster light. Chewing on the side of her cheek, Tenten tenderly pressed her finger passed the corner of his lips. "C. Crap." Pulling the offending appendage away, she retrieved the nearly barren flask by her hip. "Come on. You gotta be thirsty." The child sat up exhaustedly, her arms dragging her ward up against her chest.
Lightly tapping the boy's cheek, she elicited a soft groan. "Hey, wake up." Her murmur only brought a faint whimper, the boy, in turn, buried his face into her neck. "Oh no you don't, come here." Lightly snickering at his pout, she brought the container into view. Once his pupils landed on the object, all objection dissolved into that of desire. "There you go. See I'm not that bad." Allowing the boy to hold the leather bladder, Tenten gently brushed a tuft of hair away. Tilting his head, the boy propped himself against her shoulder. With a sigh, the young brunette peered up into the brilliant moon.
Another pair of chocolate eye's stared warily at the vibrant disk in the night sky. The raucous racket of feet and voices reverberated off of the orphanage halls. "K. Kie? W. Where Tenten?" Running her fingers through the girls chestnut locks, Kie shifted her gaze back to the dormitories entrance. "I. I don't know Oki?" Biting her lip in thought, she rose from her bunk. "Hey, Ito. Can you watch Oki for a second?" A teen from an adjoining bunk rose her head from atop her arms, a sluggish expression displayed onto her face. "Sure, I guess." Rolling her eyes at the youths dismissive tone, she led Oki over to the preteen.
"Alright, Oki. Can you stay here with Ito for a bit?" The child's grip tightened around her palm, her turquoise eyes wavering in the dim light. "You come back, right?" Kneeling before the little girl, she pulled Oki into an embrace. "Of course, Oki. I'll be back soon. Okay?" Twiddling her thumbs in thought, the six-year-old provided a reserved nod. "O. Okay." Placing a light peck atop her forehead, Kie swiftly made for the exit. Breaching past the door, the blond detected a few soft voices rebounded off of the plaster walls. "I'm sorry Mrs. Kudo. But, we've checked everywhere." Peeking around the corner, Kie spotted a mess of long ivory curls.
"I. I see. Have you looked in the courtyard?" Nodding her head, the caretaker's burgundy braid swayed with the motion. "We, have." Scrunching her brow, the woman turned as something shifted in her periphery. "Hey, what do you think you're doing up?" Mrs. Kudo revolved around, spotting a child shrink back behind a wall. "Relax, Himari. Come here darling, are you alright?" Kie paused for a moment, unsure of what she should do. Remaining behind the wall, the preteen fought with herself. "I. I um. I know where Tenten went." Mrs. Kudo blinked in surprise at her words, her blouse crumpling as she knelt. "What? Hun, you need to tell me where she went. Now."
Trembling at the order, her lip quivered in response. "Sh. She. Uh. She went. In. Into the woods." Himari gasped at the response, her hand reaching her lips. "Shit, you're telling us this now!" Kudo rounded on the younger woman, her lips pursed. "Himari! Watch your tongue. This is not the time for accusations." Hearing a soft whimper, the older woman spotted the tear tracked cheeks of their ward. "It's not your fault hun, thank you for telling us? Now, how about I get you to bed." Ushering her up the flight of steps, Mrs. Kudo turned back to Himari. "What are you waiting for? Go call the authorities!" Her sharp whisper pierced through the caregiver's inaction.
"Yes, Mam." Rushing down the corridor, Himari made it into the main hall. Finding the object in question, maiden quickly tore open the box's hatch. Within the confines of the case, she retrieved a package of strontium pellets. Maneuvering past the main doors, Himari stopped mid-step. "Come on Himari. You can do this." Popping the pill into her mouth, she awkwardly performed a single hand seal. Applying a minute amount of chakra, she fired the capsule from her lips. The pill zipped through the crisp night air gradually slowing its ascent. "Come on, work." Reaching its apex, the capsule burst into flames. Spotting the burning crimson plum slowly make its descent, the woman allowed herself a moment to unwind.
Perched against the door, Himari awaited for their arrival. "How long has it been?" The maiden pondered on the inquiry, glancing to the moon seemingly for her answer. "Not to long, maybe a minute or two." The silhouette in the shadowed doorway exited the establishment; her alabaster tresses followed suit. "Hm. If no one arrives in the next minute, fire another flare." Nodding in affirmation, the pair remained rooted to their feet. The deafening silence of the two quickly succumbed to natures midnight uproar. A distant hoot prompted a flinch from the Himari's stiff stature.
"She must be terrified." Hearing Kudo's thoughts on the matter, the young woman added her sentiment. "I knew she could be a bit adventurous, but even this is a little much. Right?" A motion from to their right halted any rebuttal to her statement. "Their here." Reducing their pace, a crew of officers approached the orphanage. "Good evening Mam, what's the emergency." Addressing the head Nin, Mrs. Kudo spoke evenly. "We've lost a child in our care. She's run off into the woods." Frowning behind his mask, the captain motioned for a fellow officer to step forward. "Mam, can you show us to a few of the child's belongings. Our resident tracker should be able to pick up a trail."
Konoha National Park, Memorial Garden:
Taking measured steps, Shinko paused before a towering obsidian Tori Gate. The teen's shoulders tensed as a chilled breeze whispered past. Bowing her head, she allowed for the unbraided strands to sway in the wind. With droplets glazing her cheeks, Shinko brought her chocolate iris's towards the dim horizon. There she met the gargantuan silhouettes of three obelisks looming in the distance; she instead fastened her gaze on to the massive memorial framed by the brilliance of the moon. However, it was not the enormous obsidian leaf that overtook her being but the vibrant hearth situated at its base.
Shinko sustained a quiver that traversed her spine, yet her hands persisted in their duty. Their fingers clasping securely around a small urn, its brass exterior pressed firmly to her breast. For minutes on end, she stood there, incapable of pressing forward. Her moment of reverie shattered as an arm tenderly embraced the teen. "A. Are you ready, Shinko?" The teen only managed a humorous chuckle, her voice devolving into a choked sob. "N. N. No." Yuki merely bowed his head at the admission, a stray tear meeting his pursed lips. "I suppose we never are. Come, let's send him free." Moving forward, he paused as she resisted the advance. "Shi." Mouth agape, Shinko's resolve fractured. Catching the teen, Yuki gently brought the two of them to their knees.
"I. I ca. N. No! I. I Can't!" Sealing her eyes to the world, she wailed in wretched anguish. "I. It. It'll be alright." The captain stroked her back, holding her writhing form to his chest. "Shi. Shinko. I. I promise. Y. You'll get past this." No matter the assurances, she had grown deaf to his words. Relenting to her sorrow, Minazuki simply sat with Inari. Together, they lay under the drifting moon, holding each other in a desperate embrace. "Pathetic. You disgrace Tenma's passing." Jolting at the intrusion, Shinko swiveled her bloodshot eyes. "W. Wha. What?" Hiccuping she wiped a few droplets of spittle from the corner of her lips.
The shrouded figure stood above the pair, his lips in a blatant sneer. "You do a disservice to his memory wallowing in." Constricting his fist, Yuki straightened his back at his words. "Itachi, shut it!" Turning his head away from the teens, he slowly allowed for his muscles to decompress with his exhale. "Boy, I have half the mind to." Tensing his jaw, Minazuki gradually relieved himself from his sentiments. Sensing a rebuttal, he spoke from the corner of his mouth. "You say another word, and I'll demote you, are we clear chunin?" With a stiff neck, the Uchiha nodded. "Good."Nothing occurred for a few minutes, the silence deafening.
Allowing himself a moment to sigh, the captain went on to benevolently cup his subordinates cheek. "Shinko. D. Do you think you're ready." She leaned into the comforting touch, allowing his thumb to clear away the tears. "N. No. B. But I'll. T. Try." Nodding in appraisal, he gently lifted her up and onto her two feet. Releasing her, Yuki blinked as Shinko slid her arms around his own for support. Glancing down at the teen, he registered her silent plea displayed vividly within her cinnamon eyes. "C. Come, we shouldn't keep Tenma waiting." With reluctant steps, the two arose the stairs to meet looming Tori Gate. Observing the two, Itachi soon followed suit.
Minutes passed the group by as they traversed the expansive meadow dotted with cherry trees in late bloom. Together they crossed a vast crimson bridge, its length traversing a glistening pool filled with coy. At its cusp, a sizeable isle occupied its epicenter. With even steps, the trio ascended the three tiers to its crown. "T. Tha. That's." The group marveled at the colossal obsidian leaf, its peak reaching twenty-five meters. At its base lay a meter broad basin, a roaring flame contained within it. "The eternal flame." With his words, Shinko's fingers tightened their hold on his bicep.
All was silent for a few minutes, entranced by the vivid amber and scarlet tongues starved for nourishment. "W. When I was younger. I. I would dream about this fire. The glorious sendoff after a great battle. B. But. Now, I fear every meeting." Observing the man before her, Shinko beheld the sense of loss emblazoned on to his being. Leaning her head against his shoulder, the teen tried to provide her instructor with a modicum of comfort. Breaking out of his moment of reverie, Yuki pulled a kunai from his pouch. "A. Are you two ready?" Seeing the pair nod, he motioned for Shinko to open the urn.
In the midst of their silence, Yuki's voice rose above that of the crackling fire. "The season has come to pass dear leaf, Your toil through summer's storms is through." With his measured words, he enwrapped his fist around the blade. Its cold onyx exterior met with a bundle of scars marking his palm. "You've provided more than enough for this trunk, Leave the rest to those around you." With a swift jerk, Minazuki severed his flesh. Allotting himself a moment of reflection, he placed his fist over the urn.
Witnessing him shed a drop of blood into the jar, Itachi imitated the action. "Now as you drift into autumn's flurry, Do not fret at the height at which you soar." Raising her hand, Shinko allowed for Yuki to place the kunai within it. "For your brethren will be there to guide you, Their gentle sway leading you to the woodland floor." The sting abruptly set her mind ablaze, yet she didn't flinch. Squeezing her palm, the Shinko allowed for a stream of blood to fill the vessel.
Removing her damaged limb, Shinko halted in her duty. "Though your vibrant blade may wither, The brilliant ember within will surely grow." Shutting her eyes and gritting her teeth, the Chunin placed her hand over the roaring flames. "Its warmth coursing through your veins, Igniting thy petal into a potent inferno." The teen pivoted the urn, allowing for the contents to fall down and into the basin. "Now seize your place amongst the heavens, Allow for thy ash to plunge to the forest's mire." Opening her eyes, she observed as the ash and blood where consumed. The scarlet liquid vaporized before the mist ignited into vivid amber specs. "Those that remain will not wallow in despair, For they will rejoice in your everlasting will of fire!"
The interwoven ash plumed into the awaiting atmosphere, its coalescing essence drawing all eyes. Collapsing to her knees once more, Shinko managed a muted sob. Kneeling by his subordinate, Yuki could detect Itachi's departure from his periphery. "Shinko, do you want me to take you home?" Wiping a tear with her sleeve, the chunin merely shook her head. "N. No. I. I'll. I'll be fine. I. I just need some time alone. W. With him." Turning her shrouded gaze over to the man, she offered a broken smile. "T. Thank you, Y. Yuki." Nodding in acceptance to her request, he proceeded to rise to his feet. "I. I see. If you need me, I'm here for you." Dipping her head in gratitude, she kept her gaze on to the ground.
Watching his feet disappear into the night, she reaffixed her gaze to the ever-changing flame. "I. I just. I. you can't be gone." Shinko tightened the grip around her wounded hand, bringing the pair to her lips. "N. No. Izanami! P. Please. H. He didn't deserve this. Don't take him away. Give him back. P. Please." Bowing her head, the teen crumpled onto the cool floor. "P. Please." Convulsing with every sob and hiccup, the chunin continued with her request. "P. Please. G. Give. B. Back." Shinko clawed at the marble beneath her, the blood of her palm tarnishing the ivory veins. "T. Tenma."
Benjiro Orphanage, Perimeter Woodlands:
"Ten." Waking with a start, a pair of emeralds looked through the forts gapped walls. For a few moments, nothing but the sounds of the forest met her ears. "W. Wait. Why's it so quiet?" Stiffening at the loss of the forest's ambiance, Tenten tightened her hold of the slumbering child. "Tenten! Where are you!" Jumping at the distant sound, a soft grumble garnered her attention. "Shh. Stay down." She whispered to the boy below, her eyes roamed the brush surrounding their camp. "Tenten! Captain, this way!" With little warning, she sprung up and placed her shoes on. "Crap, come on!" Forgetting about the laces, she crawled herself over to the thatch door.
Seeing a golden light permeate between the trees, Tenten bit her lip. Returning to their little bed, she pulled the perplexed child into an embrace. "I. I'll be back soon, okay." Placing a reassuring kiss on his cheek, she brushed his hair. "Now, stay. Seeing her make for the exit, the blond whimpered and caught hold of her hand. "It. It's going to be okay. Just stay." The tremble in her voice did little to ease the child's worry. Breaking his feeble grip, Tenten creeped out of the hut. "Tenten!" Swiveling her head over to the call, recognition brought about a sneer.
Suppressing her feelings, she charged off to the side of the sound. "H. Help!" Running away from the clearing, she proceeded to yell. "Tenten! Oh, Kami I hear her! Captain, she's off to our left." Running through the underbrush, she ran away from her caretaker. "Help! S. Someone, please!" The squad rushed after the child's voice, noting that it was growing distant. "Shit, where the hell's she going?" Looking back over her shoulder, Tenten yelped as she made contact with an enlarged sapling. "Tenten! Where are you?" Breaking past another set of trees, the group paused to analyze the forest floor.
A light groan, severed through the silence of the night. "Captain, over here!" Picking up the injured child, the Anbu wiped a trickle of blood from her forehead. "You're fine now sweetie; we're here to bring you home." The man brought the girl over to the other two members of his squad. Sighing at the successful search, the captain walked over to the girl. "How is she?" Readjusting the child within his arms, the soldier looked up to his chief. "Tenten! Oh my, is she alright?" Himari hastened into the fold, her accompanying Nin trotting off to the side. "H. Hima?" Gasping at the cut to her crown, she quickly took the child into her arms, "Oh, Kami. What happened to you? Hunny?"
"W. Wha. Happen?" Tenten slurred, her eyes blinking confusedly. Placing a soothing hand upon the guardian's shoulder, the neighboring Anbu spoke. "There's no need to worry Himari. She's maybe a little delirious, but the falls damage was minimal." Hugging the girl to her chest, she kissed her temple. "Oh thank kami, you had me so worried. Why did you run off into the woods?" Tenten pressed against the caretaker, blinking away her fogginess. "Nothin. I. I'm fine. Let me go." Rolling her eyes at the bravado, Himari turned to the captain. "Well, our little toughy's back. Mister, can you. Can you take us home?" Nodding, the officer motioned to his subordinates to travel off.
"Of course mam, let's head on out everyone. Hare, inform Fort Hiroshi that we've accomplished our task." Dipping his head to the order, the anbu sprung off. "Alright mam, let's get you two home." Smiling gratefully, Himari walked in tow with the man. Swiveling her head around, Tenten stared out to the field in the distance. "I. I'm sorry." Readjusting the eight-year-old within her arms, the caretaker brushed her hair. "Don't worry hun. I think you've learned your lesson. No more running off into the woods, alright." Merely offering the woman a sideways glance, Tenten refocused on the quickly vanishing view of the clearing.
Peeking through the mess of interwoven sticks, a pair of cerulean eyes gleamed in the moonlight. "Te-Ten?" Shedding a tear at the departure, the child sat back onto the mat. Pulling his legs back into himself, the boy propped his head onto his knees. The child shifted his eyes over to the pack at the base of the tree. Spotting Tenten's coat, he plucked it from its perch. Sniffling at the loss, he hugged the piece of apparel to his chest. Slowly, the child nestled under the covers. Breathing in the scent interwoven into the fabric, the boy shut his eyes at its fraction of comfort. He shuttered at the silence of the night. In time though, even the animals returned to their calls.
A sound pierced the girl's dormitory, its main entrance opening to reveal two shadows. Kie cracked an eye open to the pair. Rising from her bunk, she observed as the two separated at the door. "Tenten? H. Hey wait! Where were you?" The child didn't stop at her whisper, her lithe body running over to the windows embrasure. Rushing after the girl, she came up behind her. "Tenten, what's wrong?" Kie wrapped an arm around the girl as she spotted the tears. "I. I left him." Her gaze firmly fastened to the woods before them, a light shudder running through the child. "Y. You did that before." With a furrowed brow, Kie observed as her friend shook her head. "N. Not like this. H. He's sick, Kie."
Said preteen's eyes widened at the fact, her hands forcing the brunette around. "And, you left him out there?" Grabbing her arm, she looked into the brunette's eyes. "Tenten, are you crazy!" Her harsh whisper didn't faze her companions attitude. "I. I can't bring him back! They. They'll hurt him!" Gritting her teeth at her words, she grunted in frustration. "Well, we can't just leave him out there!" Pursing her lips, Tenten squeezed her bunkmate's hand. "H. He'll be fine for another night. H. He's strong." Kie sifted her fingers through her golden locks, her fingers digging into her scalp.
"There has to be something we can do." Tenten drew her over to their corner of the room. "W. We can sleep." Flabbergasted by the response, she ripped her hand from the child's grasp. "How're you okay?" Rotating on the rounds of her heel, Tenten Narrowed her eyes on the taller girl. "I never said I was! I know he's better there than here! I. I can go back. Tomorrow." Noting the conviction in her eyes, Kie relented to the younger child. "Fine. But you're taking me tomorrow." Taken aback by the statement, the eight-year-old stammered out a response. "W. What?" Kie stared down at the petite girl, poking at the center of her chest. "You heard me; I wanna meet him."
Poem of the Fallen Leaf
The season has come to pass dear leaf,
Your toil through summer's storms is through.
You've provided more than enough for this trunk,
Leave the rest to those around you.
Now as you drift into autumn's flurry,
Do not fret at the height at which you soar.
For your brethren will be there to guide you,
Their gentle sway leading you to the woodland floor.
Though your vibrant blade may wither,
The brilliant ember within will surely grow.
Its warmth coursing through your veins,
Igniting thy petal into a potent inferno.
Now seize your place amongst the heavens,
Allow for thy ash to plunge to the forests mire.
Those that remain will not wallow in despair,
Fore they will rejoice in your everlasting will of fire.
P.S. This thing took my THREE DAYS to write, poetry is not my forte. But, I hope y'all liked it, I seemed like a decent idea.