Me: I don't own Naruto!
Chapter 6 – Flash to the Past
Weakly opening his eyes, Gray slightly flinched from the beaming sunlight when he found himself lying against the tree. A fruit suddenly dropped unto his head when he found Sasuke sitting atop of a tree with an apple in hand. The coffee blonde Hyuuga ninja stared at him, bewildered and slightly puzzled.
"How long was I out," Gray looked around cautiously, seeing Sakura and Naruto getting coached by Kakashi on one end.
"Three hours," Sasuke smirked, crunching the apple. "You didn't even bat an eyelash no matter how loud Naruto's yelling became."
Gray frowned slightly at the cynical tone before clambering up to his feet, loosening up his shoulders. Sasuke then jumped off the tree, landing in front of Gray. The coffee blonde hybrid Genin brushed past Sasuke, walking over to Kakashi to get a clearer view.
"Hey, Hyuuga," Sasuke suddenly pulled out a kunai from his shooter. "Think fast!"
Gray quickly spun around for the Hakkesho Kaiten while freezing water from his jug, throwing the shards like shurikens. Sasuke darted to his left side as Gray launched himself towards the male Uchiha, bringing up his arms to deflect any of Sasuke's kicks. Gray ducked and went for a sweep kick, easily throwing his fellow Genin off guard to land his bicycle kick. Sasuke stumbled back before performing the KatonGoukkakyounoJutsu [Grand Fireball Technique] while his opponent leapt out of the way before releasing the Hyouton; Shimo Senfui [Ice Element: Frost Driver] to wrap around Sasuke's leg. Unable to break it, the male Uchiha found himself victim to the Hakke RokujyonSho as he flew towards the tree. He waited for the impact until something soft cushioned the impact, revealing piles of snow.
There's snow?At this time of the year,Sasuke crushed the snow in his hand until a kick came in contact with his gut.
Gray balanced on one leg, lightening the weight a little bit. "Not bad although, your abilities must match the arrogance in your words."
Sakura swivelled her head towards Sasuke and Gray, screaming in horror. "Sasuke-kun, are you alright?"
Sasuke gripped Gray's leg tightly, trying to lift him off until Gray spun in the air for a somersault kick which he reinforced with some of his chakra. The male Uchiha crashed through the tree trunk as the bark splintered behind him, causing the boy to tumble out on the ground. Gray stood there pensively, waiting for Sasuke's next offensive pattern. Without any warning, Sasuke pounced on him with murderous intent while brandishing his kunai while Gray managed to throw him off using the momentum. The two threw fists at one another as one landed against Gray's gut whereas the Hyuuga managed to pop one of Sasuke's chakra points, sending the black haired male to the ground.
"Damn it," Sasuke spat venomously before launching himself at Gray again who sidestepped to simply stick out his foot and trip the boy. "How…?"
Gray retained his defensive stance, watching Sasuke get up. "How…?"
"It was impossible to beat someone like Kakashi and let alone a Jounin," Sasuke roared angrily before throwing his leg to kick Gray in the face who redirected it with a circular block. "It's taken me years yet you don't have the history that I have and you could do the same!"
Gray narrowed his eyes at the persistent Uchiha, biting his lower lip while evading his attacks. The Hyuuga Ninja threw his legs back for his signature bicycle kick, forcing Sasuke to stagger back. However, Sasuke slid past Gray's defence and kicked Gray's knee. Having no other choice, Gray landed on his palm for better stability until a rain of kunai shot towards him. He plucked open his water jug and whirled a water slicer towards it, deflecting the kunai easily until Sasuke seized the opportunity and pinned both his arms to the ground.
"I think we've seen enough," Kakashi grabbed Sasuke by the collar while Gray helped himself up. "Sasuke, it's quite obvious that Gray would win this fight. You're thinking with your fists while Gray has a cool head on his shoulders. Secondly, you obviously didn't warm up and third – you're lucky Gray's not using Byakuggan or your chakra will be in a screwed up network. In due time, don't worry. You'll get stronger."
Sasuke begrudgingly shoved his hands in his pockets while Kakashi sighed. He never knew Sasuke to be the type to pick fights just like that; that would be more on Naruto's aisle. Sakura nursed Sasuke's wounds while Gray started dressing his own until he noticed his scarf was missing.
"Where's my scarf," Gray searched frantically until he found Sasuke dangling it in front of him. "Please return it, Uchiha-san."
Gray bit his lower lip, trying to use the most polite tone he could with the male Uchiha. He knew that the Hyuuga and Uchiha family were competitive rivals but he didn't know it was this bad. Sasuke smirked, taunting him as he whipped it around.
"Come and get it," Sasuke sneered darkly, whirling it around his finger.
Gray inhaled deeply as he narrowed his eyes at the fluttering scarf, curling his fingers and ignoring the blood slightly trickling out of his palm. Sakura tensed up a bit as silence wedged itself in between them, causing the Hyuuga ninja to prepare a battle stance. His emerald green eyes followed the billowing movement of his scarf, analyzing Sasuke's emotions and movements. With a single twitch, Gray splashed the water against Sasuke's face before dashing past him to steal back his scarf while tying it tightly around his forehead all in one whole motion.
Kakashi sighed, scratching his head in frustration while watching the two suddenly ignite a sense of rivalry. "Alright, let's have a little game."
Sasuke and the others swivelled their heads towards Kakashi who brought out a bell. "Similar to the bell test but this time – you'll be working in pairs. However, the mechanics are different; the game does not end even if I lose it. You have the chance to either steal it from me or to take it from your opponent. Your time limit is thirty minutes. So, you'll be pairing up – Sasuke and Sakura while Naruto and Gray go together. The two nodded while Gray and Naruto exchanged glances with one another as he pressed the alarm.
"Your time starts NOW."
Sasuke and Sakura immediately sprinted away while Gray and Naruto remained steeled into their positions. Kakashi raised an eyebrow at the both of them, watching for either movement. Glancing at the trees, the Hyuuga ninja found Sasuke watching their movements as well while Sakura disguised herself under the bush. Gray stuck his tongue out into the air but activated his Byakuggan and stood silently in front of Kakashi. Leaves rustled as the wind blew lightly against their bodies, heightening the tension between them.
"Naruto, start your attack," Gray motioned to Naruto, earning himself a flabbergast expression from the hyperactive coffee blonde.
"What, are you serious," Naruto waved his arms in the air, shaking his head defiantly. "No way – Sasuke, Sakura and I couldn't even take him all at once! What makes you think I can alone?"
"You know Kage Bunshin don't you," Gray explained to the coffee blonde carefully, making sure his gaze didn't leave Kakashi. "Use it to your advantage. Swarm him."
Naruto, seeing Gray's determined face, shrugged reluctantly. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you."
"Trust me on this one," Gray narrowed his eyes as his Byakugganconcentrated harder until the flow of chakra became more definite.
Naruto rushed in head-on, placing his hands for his signature move. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" [Shadow Clone Technique]
An army of Naruto clones rained on Kakashi as he took them out one by one. Naruto's clones slowly started poofing away as the hyperactive coffee blonde ninja continued to rush in with insane adrenaline and speed.
"Naruto flank on the left," Gray commanded. "He'll be dodging in that direction in three seconds!"
Naruto's eyes widened before shrugging as he leapt there and landed his first blow on Kakashi, sending the Jounin away. The silver haired senior stared in awe as he exchanged glances with Gray and Naruto, pondering how the Hyuuga managed to develop his Byakuggan that far. After watching the Hyuuga family and their exhibitions, none of them exhibited that ability let alone the capability to predict movement by simply watching the flow of chakra. A small smirk formed on his lips as he darted forward, causing Gray to exert more effort onto his Byakuggan.
"Now here's your problem," –Gray swivelled around only to find Kakashi locking him in a full-nelson. "Because you're busy analyzing, you leave yourself open for attack. It's either you know how to switch instantly or you do it at the same time. Otherwise, your offensive power will drastically weaken."
Gray however smirked before using his finger to send a whiplash of water towards Kakashi and slap him, allowing him to snatch the bell. However, a kunai shot past him and pierced it against the tree as Sasuke managed to snatch it from the coffee blonde teenager.
"Sakura," Sasuke shouted as he tossed the bell to her. "Run for it!"
The pink haired kunoichi frantically darted for it until Gray unleashed a set of strings to snatch it back, running with Naruto to hide. Kakashi vanished as he hid amongst the trees, searching for his pupil and his temporary member whereas Sasuke and Sakura decided to go for the hard way. The two blondes hid in one of the taller trees as Gray eased himself on one of the branches, watching them scatter and search for them.
"Wow, how did you do that," Naruto exclaimed excitedly, only to be shushed by Gray. "No really," –he exclaimed in a softer tone. "How did you do that?"
"Taichi was the main reason why I developed that technique," Gray explained while watching them search around the vicinity, carefully analyzing their movements. "His seal sometimes breaks so Takagi-sensei makes me check it every now and then so it doesn't cause any mischief or misfortune."
As Sasuke and Sakura continued to scout the area for any of them, Naruto plucked an apple from the tree before munching on it. "Wow, they're taking awhile."
"You're lucky I know good chakra control to get us up here," Gray narrowed his eyes calculatingly at the other two. "To tell you the truth, Sasuke's a pain in the butt."
"Yeah, someone agrees with me," Naruto grinned cheekily, punching the air until the branch suddenly started to snap. "Uh-oh."
Shit, Gray berated himself silently before swinging himself over to catch Naruto by the legs. "Naruto, whatever you do – do not wail and beg for your life!"
Naruto snapped his mouth instantly as he swung to and fro, looking downward. "Uh Gray, I don't think this is good for my stomach!"
"Yeah, it isn't good for my head either," Gray struggled to maintain the flow of his chakra and his grip on Naruto's leg. These are one of the times I wish I was physically strong like Taichi.
Suddenly, his feet loosened as they both started falling. Naruto screamed for his life while Gray inhaled deeply as he performed a set of seals.
"Hyouton: Aisu Kaze no Jutsu," Gray sprayed out a freezing wind as it sculpted into a slide, allowing them to land safely onto the ground. [Ice Element: Icy Wind]
Kakashi, Sasuke and Sakura darted towards location as Gray scrambled for the bell only to have Kakashi snatch it back from him.
"Not a bad tactic although," Kakashi looked up, seeing the tree branch nearly snapping off. "You forgot to take into consideration Naruto's lack of body control and chakra control."
Gray nodded weakly while Naruto folded his arms with a disgusted snort while Sasuke and Sakura hated to accept the fact that they showed no success or progress either in trying to steal the bell. Glancing at the sky, Kakashi led them out of the dense forest as they all eased themselves comfortably onto a pad of grass. Gray however found himself leaning against the tree in his usual position.
"Alright, seeing that you four now have been well acquainted with one another," Kakashi sighed in relief, crossing his legs together. "So, I think we can somewhat argue with the Hokage for a higher ranked mission for you kids seeing that we're a bigger group. Secondly, Gray and Sasuke are both tensai in their own right so – the chances of getting a mission of higher rank and pay will be much more probable."
"So sensei," Naruto jumped up and down excitedly, inching closer to Kakashi. "What mission are we going to get?"
"We'll start small first to check if you guys can work together," Kakashi glanced at the other three, earning three approving nods from them. "We'll begin with C-class."
All their eyes widened while Gray remained completely stoic as to the news.
"I'm sure Gray already has experience fighting in C-class and above. You guys only experienced your first A-class mission but that was with his team," Kakashi pointed out firmly, causing Naruto's shoulders to drop slightly. "Unlike before, we won't have Taichi and Mimi as powerhouses when it comes to bringing down the rain but this is where your brain learns how to strategize."
They all exchanged glances with one another as Kakashi noticed the sun slowly set. "Well, it's getting late. You all should get some rest. As for me, I'm going to see if I can argue for a C-class mission tomorrow. By the way, Sasuke and Gray stay put for a moment."
As Sakura and Naruto went off to depart for their homes, Kakashi glanced at the two. "I expect you two to learn how to work together instead of goading one another. Sasuke, instead of taunting Gray, try focusing on increasing your own skills and inventing your own. Gray, I'm going to give you a regimen that will kick up your stamina a little."
Then two nodded slowly but not without passing a threatening and menacing gaze towards one another until Kakashi pinched their ear lobes, causing them to squint and flinch in pain.
"So, we're going to train a bit longer until you two get along," Kakashi pulled out a kunai, watching their movements. "First, let's work on your coordination."
Sasuke and Gray slowly unsheathed their kunai as well as they watched Kakashi analyze their movement and circle around them. The two of them suddenly sprinted away as Sasuke tried to land a kick to which Kakashi somersaulted away with Gray coming up from behind with a bicycle kick. Kakashi narrowly dodged the Hyuuga ninja's attack before grabbing Sasuke's leg and throwing him towards Gray as they both crashed on one another.
"Damn it," Sasuke roughly shoved Gray off as they both tumbled on the ground. "For starters, stop getting in my way."
"Look who's talking," Gray coldly reiterated until a hand grabbed both of their legs.
"Doton; Shinju Zanshu," Kakashi suddenly dragged them into the ground, allowing their heads to peep out of the small hole. [Earth Element; Inner Decapitation Skill]
Sasuke struggled underneath while Gray focused his chakra all over his body only to realize later that his limbs were completely immobilized. Kakashi loomed above them with his kunai still drawn, sighing in defeat.
"Maybe asking you two to work together was a horrible idea," Kakashi scratched his head before walking away. "Oh well, until you two can settle your differences – I'm leaving you two here."
Gray paled considerably whereas Sasuke struggled violently under the earth while Kakashi leaned against the trunk of the tree comfortably reading his IchiIchi Paradise. Letting out a disgruntled snort, Sasuke threw a glance at the Hyuuga ninja who closed his eyes deep in meditation.
"If you're gonna sleep and do nothing then, might as well try to help me," Sasuke rolled his eyes sarcastically at Gray, inhaling deeply.
"I'd be more inclined to do so if you didn't demand all the time," Gray nonchalantly shrugged while closing his eyes once again. "I'm going to try breaking us out but..."
"But," Sasuke raised an eyebrow. "What's the side-effect?"
"I may accidentally freeze us in the process," Gray opened his eyes while explaining to Sasuke, checking around if Kakashi was still within an earshot. "My idea was to erode the rocks and weather them down so we can dig ourselves out."
"It's worth the risk," Sasuke nodded as he felt the air suddenly drop several degrees, shivering slightly from the cold. "How are you doing that?"
"It's only applicable to a small range though," Gray unleashed his Byakuggan as snow crystals started to form all around them, feeling the earth slightly loosen. "On three..."
"One."
"Two."
"Three!"
Both kicked the earth hard as they both escaped the Jutsu, shocking Kakashi while Sasuke went on for the attack. Gray, feeling the chill in the air, performed a set of hand seals and started freezing the ground with the Hyouton: Shimo Senfui. Kakashi, left with no other choice, leapt out of the way while Sasuke waited for him the air and attempted to land a kick on his shoulder. He sailed through the air, avoiding any other aerial attacks until a set of strings weaved themselves through and wrapped all over Kakashi's body.
"Sasuke, take the hit," Gray yanked the strings tightly to restrain Kakashi whilst cutting him in the process.
Sasuke zoomed towards him and punched him straight into the ground, creating a small crack on the ground in the process. As Kakashi rolled away from the flying projectiles, he found himself blocking both Sasuke's and Gray's punches and kicks as they came raining down on him. With a simultaneous arrow kick, the two sent Kakashi staggering back as they charged in again for another assault. The Jounin performed another set of hand seals as he unleashed a fireball flying towards both of them. Having no choice, Gray and Sasuke separated from one another as the ball blazed past them.
"Subconsciously, you both can work together," Kakashi gestured them to stop, beckoning them to come over. "However, you guys still need a little work but I guess that's something only experience in the field can contribute. So, I guess this ends today's session. You two go join up with Naruto and Sakura. I'm going to have a little chat with the Hokage."
As Kakashi vanished, Sasuke and Gray walked towards the Ramen House silently without exchanging any heated arguments of whatsoever. As they walked in silence, Sasuke ignored the girls who batted their eyelashes flirtily at him. Gray on the other hand ignored the dark and spiteful stares as he continued heading towards the ramen restaurant.
"So, how did you get here," Sasuke asked slowly, glancing at Gray. "I don't remember seeing you around here."
"I was never born here," Gray responded curtly, shoving his hands into his pocket. "All I remember was being surrounded by four walls… and then, Takagi-sensei took me in."
Sasuke raised an eyebrow at the coffee blonde boy. "You were taken in by your own master?"
"Not just me but Mimi as well," Gray smiled bitterly before chuckling good-naturedly. "Although, I completely understand your hatred towards one another. Mimi blames you for not being able to stop your brother from murdering the entire clan and I don't know where your hatred is coming from. All I know is – ninja clans tend to have a funny set of politics."
Sasuke, nodding slowly, found himself in front of the Ramen Store. "I'm guessing Naruto and Sakura already headed home?"
"I guess so," Gray shrugged as he turned away to head back to his apartment. "Well, I'm heading back. I think I'm in charge of cooking dinner tonight again."
"I'm guessing Mimi can't cook to save her life," Sasuke chuckled at the mere idea of his cousin cooking, wondering if the house would burn down.
"She can," Gray shrugged nonchalantly before waving goodbye. "That's if you're a fan of grilled vegetables. She's quite the vegetarian."
"I thought you were," Sasuke raised an eyebrow as Gray rolled his eyes.
"Nah, Pescetarian suits my lifestyle better. At least I don't need to wait for vegetables to ripen all the time."
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
As the next day marked his first teamwork with Team Kakashi, Gray stretched his arms as he glanced at the sun beaming through his window. He suited up immediately before running through the dining room and stuffing a piece of toast into his mouth.
"I gotta go," Gray bid a muffled goodbye as he dashed out the door while Mimi came out with a towel wrapped around her head and Takagi toasting some bread and frying eggs.
Mimi raised an eyebrow at him. "You're really teaming him up with Sasu-Gay?"
"It will be good for his leadership training," Takagi reasoned out with the female Uchiha, shaking his head. "Secondly, if I let you go with them – Sasuke's not going to be the only one dead."
Mimi let out a hollow chuckle, seating herself at the table. "Yeah, I guess. Although, Neji's gonna try and murder Gray if you placed him in Team Guy for training."
"You're one of the very few who know it Mimi," Takagi narrowed his eyes at the tri-streak haired girl, passing her a plate of spinach and eggs Benedict. "Just don't go announcing it to the world. Gray's not very fond of that fact either."
Meanwhile, Gray met up with Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke at the Hokage's office. He slung over his small duffel bag while standing alongside the seven as Naruto began heatedly bashing the Hokage.
"WHAT? WHAT DO YOU MEAN WE CAN'T GO ON HIGHER RANKED MISSIONS," Naruto stamped his foot on the ground angrily, pouting impishly.
Sandaime sighed deeply, watching Naruto's bright blue eyes flicker angrily with frustration. "You see Naruto, missions are not easily attainable. After all, it all depends on your rank whether or not you can handle it. For example, as Genin you are only allowed to accept D-rank missions. It's very rare that they are even allowed C-rank missions."
Naruto slammed his hands on the desk, curling his fingers into a fist. "How come Gray and his team are allowed to pick higher ranked missions huh?"
"That's because they are a six man team," the Hokage argued back. "Secondly, Takagi is a special ANBU in terms of being the captain of the 1st Root Division! Gray and Mimi clearly exceed their ranks in terms of skill and combat level alone!"
"But we have Gray with us," Naruto whined, jumping up and down.
Seeing how desperate and anxious the hyperactive blonde boy was, the Hokage decided to give in to Naruto's desire.
"Fine, I'll give you a C-class mission then," the Hokage smirked, causing Naruto's face to instantly beam up proudly. "Tazuna-san, you can come in now."
Kakashi and his team waited for their client to open the sliding door as an old muscular man walked in while holding his sakebottle. He wiped the sweat off his brow as he sauntered in with his big heavy backpack. Glancing at the team that stood before him, he chortled mockingly before throwing a glance to Sandaime.
"YOU'RE SAYING THAT THESE BRATS ARE CAPABLE OF PROTECTING ME," He jeered at the four of them. "They look like they'd rather play with their little fake toy weapons!"
Naruto, feeling his blood boil, spat out venomously. "Who are you calling brat, old man!'
Tazuna shook his head distastefully. "Who else is a brat here huh? Besides, Shorty – you don't look like you have what it takes!"
Naruto shouted before folding his arms with an annoyed grunt. "I sure do! Besides, I'm not that short!"
When Kakashi looked between them however, Sasuke stood over with 4'10 and Sakura needed only one more inch to equalize with Sasuke. Gray however towered over the rest at the height of 5'2. Naruto, upon seeing the height difference, hung his head shamefacedly as the Hokage explained to them the details of the mission.
"Your mission is to escort Tazuna safely to Wave Country," Sandaime ordered but suddenly noticed Gray's face drain itself considerably. "Gray, is there anything wrong?'
Gray snapped himself out the daze, responding politely. "No, nothing at all, Hokage-sama."
Slightly quizzical with Gray's answer, the Hokage then decided to dismiss the idea. "Anyhow, you are to escort him and make sure he arrives there safely. He is a very important person in the Wave Country."
Naruto folded his arms with a snort. "Humph, he doesn't look like anything but a bridge builder! I mean – we already did one with a princess and we got good reviews!"
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
Much to Naruto's chagrin however, the mission still pushed through as he trailed behind Sasuke and Sakura. Gray remained behind Kakashi with his hand near his kunai, watching the bushes slightly rustle along with the wind. The coffee blonde male ninja cautiously advanced forward until Kakashi lightly dropped his hand on his shoulder.
"You should relax a little; getting tense over nothing chews up your energy too," Kakashi glanced at the other three in front. "I know you're more used to the powerhouse bashing of both Taichi and Mimi but we're definitely not small fry either."
"Kakashi-san, it's not that," Gray averted his eyes from the silver haired Jounin before glancing back at the other team. "It's..."
"The destination I presume," Kakashi raised an eyebrow at the coffee blonde boy, earning himself a surprised gaze. "Takagi gave me a little information on that."
Gray hung his head lightly while Kakashi shook his head. "It's alright to feel anxiety and nervousness but letting it screw up your combat quality and prowess is a big no-no."
Tazuna raised an eyebrow at him, noticing his non-interaction with the other ninjas. "Don't you try talking to these kids?'
Gray shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly.
Mr. Tazuna stared at him strangely, musing mentally to himself. "So, there's the short one, the poker-faced boy, pinky and the mute kid. What a strange bunch."
Seeing his concern, Gray nodded lightly with a rueful smile before continuing his pathway towards the Wave Country. Birds flew into the air as the sky glowed kindly on him, causing him to ease himself a little into the mission until he stepped onto a puddle.
"What's a puddle doing in the middle of nowhere," Gray examined it closely as he found multiple water puddles in front of Tazuna realization smacked into him hard. "Tazuna-san, look out!"
Tazuna stopped right in front of one as a ninja jumped out of the puddle, swinging his chain scythe.
"Gehehehe, it's about time you showed up," he unleashed his chain scythe towards Tazuna until a kunaiforced it to fly awry. "What the hell...!"
Sasuke leapt up for a sky kick whereas Gray immediately grabbed the scythe and whirled it around the ninja to keep him bound. The assailant met Sasuke's kick before plummeting into the ground as more ninjas sprouted from the puddles. Naruto launched himself at one until the scythe embedded itself into his hand and flung him aside while the other ninjas lashed out at Kakashi, constricting him with their chained weapons. Before Kakashi could say anything, the chains tightened until it tore him apart. Sakura staggered back, restraining her urge to scream in horror. Naruto punched one guy as another chain flew after him until Gray grabbed it and froze it instantly.
"What the," the ninja tugged only to have his weapon shatter into pieces. "There's only one clan born with the Freezing Touch!"
Gray narrowed his eyes angrily despite maintaining a stoic expression. "Unfortunately for you, I'm one of its survivors!"
The ninja fell backwards as Gray pounded him with several punches and blowing up several of his chakra points. As the ninjas scampered away, Kakashi appeared before them before wrapping them up with their own chain sickles and tearing them apart. As they fell to the ground motionless, Kakashi walked over to the other ninjas.
"Yo," he waved casually, causing Sakura and Naruto gape at him.
"YOU'RE STILL ALIVE," they sputtered in unison, jabbing their fingers in all directions. "But how!"
Sasuke shook his head with a 'duh' stare. "Obviously, Kawirimi no Jutsu." [Substitution Technique]
Kakashi noticed Naruto nursing his bloody hand, squeezing all the blood out. "Naruto, remember what happened to Taichi the last time?"
Naruto nodded fearfully and slowly.
"You'll have to do the same thing," Kakashi noted with finality, examining his hand. "Knowing them, assailants always put poison to make sure they don't go down unfulfilled."
Naruto wailed, glancing at his hand. "But I don't want to!"
Seeing the sudden commotion, Sasuke walked towards Naruto. "Are you okay, coward?"
Upon hearing this, Naruto suddenly grabbed his kunai and impale his hand right through.
As the whole crowd was stunned with silence, Naruto narrowed his eyes. "I don't want to be held down like this! I want to be Hokage no matter what! That was my promise!"
Kakashi analyzed the wound again and withheld his snicker. "Well, okay. I lied. You didn't need to stab your hand."
"Eh," Naruto exchanged glances with Kakashi and then his hand. "AAAH! MY HAND IS BLEEDING! MY HAND IS BLEEDING! I'M GOING TO DIE!"
Sakura scolded, "Naruto! Stop inflicting damage on yourself and quit wailing!"
Gray exhaled deeply, face-palming as he shook his head disdainfully, "Man… he's the exact copy of Taichi. He just did that on our recent mission! Hasn't he learned anything?"
Sasuke shoved his hands into his pocket with his usual scowl. "Naruto is still explicably stupid."
As the blonde hyperactive ninja continued to wave his hands in the air, Kakashi quickly slapped it down before examining his wound as the excess chakra rapidly sealed up Naruto's wound.
I guess that's the result of the Kyuubi.
As they began walking again, this time, Naruto tried to look cooler than Sasuke by acting alert and all. He continuously threw kunai into the bushes as animals and other critters escaped from his meaningless assault. Gray glanced around, feeling the breeze gently brush past him while glancing into the dense clumps of trees. His nerves tingled slightly but he chose to ignore it for now.
Sakura resisted her urge to grab and strange Naruto. "Stop acting like an idiot, Naruto!"
Kakashi dropped his hand on Gray's shoulder. "Gray, I think I better rely on you for this."
Gray activated his Byakuggan and he began looking around. Everything seemed clear until he began to notice a light tint of blue in his vision. Squinting a little for better concentration, Gray finally discovered the outline of a human being hidden in the bush.
Tazuna slapped the upside of Naruto's head. "You snot-nosed brat! You could stop pretending now!"
Suddenly, Gray walked over to the bush and Tazuna asked, "What are you looking for? There's nothing there."
His nerves began tingling as Gray felt some vibrations on the floor and he threw a kunai towards the epicentre of the vibration. As the projectile landed, the shadow revealed itself as a bandaged man landed on the top of a branch while balancing himself on his sword.
"Nice to meet you again, Hatake Kakashi."
The four ninjas threw a glance at Kakashi who narrowed his eyes for a moment until realization hit him.
Kakashi glowered darkly. "Long time no see, Momochi Zabuza."
Zabuza smirked when he noticed the team of Kakashi composed of children. "These kids? I thought you were better than that, Copy Ninja Kakashi."
Kakashi looked seriously and lifted his forehead protector and revealed his Sharingan eye and looked into Zabuza's face and slowly, he noticed that the area was filling itself with mist. Sakura gulped as Kakashi instantly drew out his kunai and delivered orders.
"Everyone, defensive formation!"
Gray, Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke defended Tazuna as the mist started getting thicker.
As the mist slowly hindered their vision, Sasuke examined Kakashi's outline and found himself trembling as he gripped his kunaitightly. "What a murderous intention. I can't even keep my hand still…"
Sensing his student's fear, Kakashi swivelled his head towards the black haired Uchiha. "Don't worry I would never let the enemy hurt my friends."
Out of nowhere, clones rushed in on Kakashi as he was forced to fight them head on. Each and every one of them dissolved into nothing but water as Zabuza got in between them and Tazuna.
"The most sensitive parts to strike are," seeing the panic and horror clearly written on their faces, Zabuza tightened his grip on his sword. "The neck, back, knees, the gut, phalanx…"
Then, he swung his sword in attempt to slice Tazuna in half but Kakashi got in the way.
Sakura clasped her hands on her mouth, gasping with terror. "KAKASHI-SENSEI!"
But when Kakashi got sliced in half, blood didn't spill. It was water and Zabuza then realized that Kakashi replaced himself with a copy of himself.
Interested as he let out a bemused chuckle, Zabuza smirked. "Very cunning Kakashi. You managed to make the clone truly act like you."
Kakashi descended towards him with a kunai as Zabuza evaded out of the way. Their blades clashed with one another as steel ignited small sparks flying into the air. Zabuza staggered back a few times, receiving a few kicks from Kakashi. However, the silver haired Jounin dug his heels deeply into the ground as to create distance between him and Tazuna. Kakashi launched himself for a blow until Zabuza easily sealed him up in a water prison.
Zabuza chuckled maniacally with an evil grin. "You cannot break out from this prison. It'd be foolish if you did try!"
Zabuza's leftover clones unleashed their assault as Sakura remained behind with the other three boys taking beating. Gray landed a hit on one until it managed to replicate Zabuza's inhumane strength and lock his large hand around Gray's neck, depriving the Hyuuga ninja of any air. Sasuke kicked one away as two more ganged up on him with both giving him a roundhouse kick to the face. More clones that Zabuza created pounded the other three as Gray repeatedly revealed the Hakkesho Kaiten to prevent any behind attacks.
Without having any choice in the matter, Naruto immediately conjured clones. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" (Shadow Clone Technique)
The clones jumped on Zabuza and tried to hold him down but then, Zabuza out-powered them and sent them flying. Sasuke threw a flurry of punches and kicks only to have them all blocked and his last kick grabbed as he was thrown onto the ground and stepped on. Gray threw a few punches and went for a bicycle kick only to get punched in the stomach as Zabuza sent him keeling over.
Naruto immediately dug threw his bag, hurling a shuriken towards him. "Sasuke!"
Using the substitution technique, Sasuke released himself from Zabuza's hold as he took hold of it and noticed a highly different feel about the blade.
Combining two shuriken to create the Windmill Demon Shuriken technique, Sasuke hurled it forward while passing over a signal to Gray. "Gray, use that technique of yours!"
Immediately throwing bells into different patterns, Gray laced them all with his chakra. "Kawa no Ken!" (River of Swords)
The chakra infused nylon string whipped around Zabuza, immediately constricting him. Although the shuriken missed the real Zabuza, the other one beneath it smashed the clone holding Kakashi as a prisoner and forced the water sphere to dissolve. Zabuza forcibly pulled out his arm as the Jutsu collapsed instantly, earning himself a goofy grin on Naruto's face as he emerged from the water.
Naruto punched the air triumphantly with a foolhardy grin. "Hehehe! It worked!"
Kakashi blinked a few times before smiling in approval. "You've really matured, Naruto."
Naruto sheepishly scratched his head as he revealed his plan. "I didn't want to hit Zabuza directly because I knew I'd get my butt kicked so… I used the clones as a diversion and then, I transformed into a hand blade and I let the clone throw me towards Sasuke. Then, Sasuke combined his hand blade and both of the hand blades including the transformed hand blade went straight for you. I hid under Sasuke's that's why there were three. So, I aimed for your arms and it worked!"
Zabuza, snarling angrily, immediately drew his sword to behead Naruto. "You little-!"
Upon seeing the flying sword, Naruto could only yelp as he dove deep underwater. "Gleep!"
Then, when he looked at him again, Kakashi had blocked the blade and both steel materials were clashing and creating sparks.
Zabuza chuckled deviously, watching Kakashi's eyes glitter angrily. "So, we can continue our little fight?"
Kakashi smirked, pushing Zabuza away with his own force. "Yeah."
As they created a distance between one another, their actions slowly became synchronized as their Jutsu began to appear.
"Suiton; Suiryuudan no Jutsu." (Water element; Water Dragon Bullet technique)
Two water dragons rose and waters tossed and turned and even flipped Naruto over since he was still in the water. The dragons smashed into each other and beneath them, Kakashi and Zabuza launched themselves at one another for the initiative. Kakashi dashed forward as Zabuza menacingly lunged at him as their blades clashed loudly with sparks flying.
Bewildered, Zabuza increased the speed and pace of his attacks until he finally stopped as he leapt away. "How can Kakashi possibly follow my movement?"
He lifted his right arm up and Kakashi did too. Then, he did aJutsu sign and Kakashi did the same. Horrified and puzzled, Zabuza narrowed his eyes a little as Kakashi's Sharingan suddenly began to spin around. Staggering back, the Kirigakure ninja soon found himself staring back at himself.
Upon seeing Zabuza's distraction, Kakashi seized the chance as pressurized water formed an arch behind him. "Suiton; Daibaku no Jutsu!" (Water Element; Great Explosion Technique)
A powerful stream of water appeared and flushed down Zabuza to the other side of the forest. Waters tossed and turned as he slammed against the trunk of one of the trees, remaining in a complete daze.
Zabuza shook his head in denial, recalling the speed of Kakashi's casting. "I don't believe it. He did my next technique that would finish him off faster than me."
Suddenly, pain shot throughout his body as multiple kunai imbedded themselves into his body as Kakashi landed gracefully on the branches. The copy ninja stared down at the renegade ninja mercilessly, gripping his otherkunai.
Sighing darkly and defeated at his predicament, Zabuza let out a hollow chuckle. "Do you have the power to see the future?"
Kakashi brandished his kunai, preparing to bring it down. "Yes. And you are about to die."
When Kakashi was going to deal the final blow, needles went in and knocked Zabuza and temporarily stopped his heart. The four immediately reached Zabuza's carcass until a masked ninja appeared before them, standing in between them and the body. The symbol of Kirigakure engraved itself on the pure white mask as the young ninja bowed his head in apology.
"I'm sorry but I have been pursuing this man for awhile now," he hauled the body over to his shoulder. "I will do you guys a favour by disposing the body for you. Thank you for helping me pursue him."
Before anyone could ask a question, the chasing ninja vanished and Gray darted after him but noticed no trace of the ninja. "Did I see that guy somewhere? Oh well…"
The tension finally relaxed as the water resumed flowing in its calm and tranquil state. Suddenly, a loud thump reached their ears when they looked to their left and found Kakashi on the floor.
Staring in horror, Naruto immediately rushed to hissensei. "Kakashi-sensei!"
They picked up Kakashi but his left leg was paralyzed and he couldn't move a single nerve in his leg.
Sakura slung his arm over her shoulder. "Kakashi-sensei, are you okay?"
Kakashi groaned, wincing at his every attempt to move his limbs. "I can't move."
Easing off Sakura's burden, Gray and Sasuke slung his arms on their shoulders instead while Tazuna directed them exactly where to go. The Wave Country revealed many ports and villages walking through the market. The sunset reflected off the bright blue bodies of water as the orange tinted skies calmed their senses after their skirmish. Tazuna revealed to them also the small herbal gardens along with some of his friendly neighbours who greeted them meekly at the presence of seeing them. Gray's expression became more crestfallen as he noticed a rundown mansion at the very end of the village. Small bodies of water surrounded it with vines creeping all over it.
Sakura, seeing Gray ceased walking, grabbed his arm and dragged him along. "Gray, come on! What is wrong with you?"
As they all reached Tazuna's house, he made a brief introduction to his daughter-in-law and grandson – Tsunami and Yunari. The black haired woman smiled as she cooked them dinner, placing rice bowls on the table along with some small pieces of fish. As Tsunami placed another bowl, Gray had suddenly vanished without a trace.
"Hey, where did the mute kid go," Tazuna jerked his head towards the empty seat. "He could've at least said where he was going."
Casting a glance to the brightly lit home, Gray disappeared into the darkness before locating a bloody mansion at the edge of the Wave Country. Sword marks decorated the walls as the Tatami floors remained completely moist while dark red stains replaced the cream coloured walls. Gray emotionlessly sauntered into the house as he entered the kitchen. Turning the knob, he noticed no water came out as tears slowly slipped through his eyes. He fell unto his knees, covering his ears.
This is the Wave Country. A place I once called home...
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
That's it! Chapter 6 is done. I hope it isn't too bad. Reviews are welcome and I made sure this wasn't Mary-sue.
Buh-bye!