Author's note: And he finally gets the chapter done! I honestly had no idea just how annoying exam periods could be even though I've been going through this old song and dance for years now. Guess I just never paid much attention all that time - talented and attentive pupil my ass! Yet somehow I've managed to watch pretty much all of the english dub of Fairy Tail recently and I've gotta say: it is awesome!
With Naruto and Bleach in their twilight years (by that I mean they're getting old and nearing the end, not those piece of crap books) watching Fairy Tail has given me something to read long term after they're both gone. Now don't get me wrong here, I think Naruto and Bleach are both great shows that have (along with One Piece) become giants among men in the anime world but you have to admit that at the beginning they were both fairly shaky, well Naruto much more so than Bleach.
The main issue I find with the original series of Naruto is the fact that the main character is just so goddamn annoying! I mean really, it's a good thing that he provides such a good starting point for fanfic writers to develop from and manipulate in so many diverse ways otherwise he would be on my top ten least likable characters list. Natsu on the other hand, even from episode one, shows that yeah, he can be funny and a bit childish at times, but he's a badass. Don't believe me? Just go watch the first episode!
Sakura...? Fuck Sakura. She's pretty much a useless character up until Shippuden from my point of view, serving only to provide exposition about the world in which the show is set. Lucy on the other hand is a character who I feel I can relate to as a fellow writer (not her personal situation). Both she and Gray are much more likable and interesting characters than either Sakura or Sasuke, Gray being a much more social and amusing version of Sasuke. Also I'd say that Erza is much more badass than Kakashi any day of the week... oh yeah, you heard me... please don't kill me. Hahaha!
Also I can't forget to mention side characters. Now whilst in Naruto they gave you brief glimps into the various side recurring side characters in the first few episodes it was done in a way that was so short that you didn't really pay much attention to them. As opposed to Fairy Tail in which in episode two they introduce each character and give a quick overview of their personality which doesn't drag on but is enough to keep them in your mind.
Just to clarify: I don't hate Naruto and Shippuden as a whole, just some of the characters. The original series provided such a perfect template as to what a great anime should be like and I see that in Fairy Tail, which has learnt from the past shows and created something truly wonderful. Well anyway, that's my two cents worth.
Rant over, now to buisiness. With this chapter we finally get the final round of the Chuunin Exams underway. If all goes to plan I'll have this done in three chapters (this one included) and the majority of it will be fighting. Let's hope my writing of battle scenes isn't too bad else these will turn out pretty crappy won't they? *Nervous laugh* Hopefully that won't be the case and these will turn out okay. Now I have some other stuff that I want to talk about in regards to the story but I think I've written enough up here so I'll save that for the next chapter.
So I hope you enjoy this chapter and I'd love to hear your thoughts on it! Ciao!
Outcasts – Arc 1 – The Knight of Konoha
Chapter 9 – Sword And Song
''The first match will be between Hayami Tsuwatari of Konoha,'' the proctor said, gesturing to Hayami, ''and Kushina Uzumaki of Uzu!'' The crowd cheers wildly for the two girls, this was what they had been waiting the last month for.
Kushina shifted slightly, getting ready to close in on Hayami. 'Time to show what Makito's done for me.'
''Ladies... you may begin!''
Kushina, despite taking off just as she had intended, was frozen to the spot.
Hayami was...
She was singing.
The cheering of the crowd died out quickly and was replaced with an uncomfortable silence, or at least uncomfortable from Kushina's point of view. Every pair of eyes were locked on the singer who paid no mind to her situation, in fact it looked like she enjoyed the audience.
Although it wasn't what they had anticipated, the performance was enchanting, bringing smiles to the faces of those who listened, including the genin sat in the viewing box.
''What's up with her Kazuki? Should we put in those earplugs?'' All of those who had been in the academy with her knew that Hayami had quite the voice on her but nothing like this.
''This is just how she does things. There's no reason to worry.'' he responded.
''Yeah,'' Makito added, ''just sit back and enjoy.''
Once her song came to a close, clapping from the viewing box set off a round of applause around the stadium, much to Hayami's delight. When the clapping had finally subsided Kushina, who had admittedly enjoyed the song, spoke. ''As cool as that was can we start our fight already?''
Hayami's expression was one of feigned confusion. ''What are you talking about Kushina? We started a while ago.''
''No we didn't, you've been singing for the past few minutes!''
''Oh, let's get started then.'' Hayami said this in a confident tone, almost victorious. It was like she had already won.
In her mind she had, and Kushina didn't even know it yet.
''Well come on then!''
Wordlessly Hayami raised a hand, pointing at Kushina. ''I'm sorry Kushina.'' Before she could question the meaning behind the words Hayami began to sing again. No, this time it was less singing and more like chanting, as though conducting some kind of ritual.
''From within the darkest depths
a shadow comes, attack.
Nowhere to run or hide
and your world will fade to black.''
''It's over.''
No one could see how a few words could win a match but Kazuki said it with a fair amount of conviction. ''Right, sensei?'' Sakumo refrained from answering.
Instead Mikoto took his place. ''What are you talking about Kazuki? Nothing happened.''
''Guess again. Just listen to Kushina.''
Down in the arena she was whipping her head left and right, a look of panic on her face.
''Hayami? Hayami, what just happened? Where did you go?'' The audience was uneasy at the words for the two girls hadn't moved at all. ''Where are you Hayami? Why is it so dark? I can't see a thing!''
''Hayami disperses her chakra into the air using the vibrations created by her singing as a carrier. Once it infiltrates a person's head from the ears it is easy for her to activate it, creating various illusions at her whim using chants. If Kushina had stopped her at any time before the activation code was spoken, the illusion would have been unable to take hold. Right now she's stuck in a world where she can neither see nor hear anything, hence the name 'Fade to Black'.'' Kazuki shivered at the memory of it; for the past month he had acted as test subject for whatever illusions Hayami's surprisingly creative mind could conjure up.
''The only way Kushina's getting out of that genjutsu is if Hayami dispels it. She's already won.''
Echoing Kazuki's final statement Kushina ceased her frantic movements and instead began slowly moving forward, making a futile effort to reach Hayami.
Kushina's P.O.V...
''and your world will fade to black.''
The instant that line ended Kushina's world disappeared. A curtain of darkness consumed the surrounding view leaving not a trace of light to be seen. As a matter of fact she couldn't hear anything either. It frightened her, her eyes were wide open and yet... nothing.
''Hayami?'' she called out, looking for any trace of life. ''Hayami, what just happened? Where did you go?''
''Foolish girl!''
The booming voice came from behind and as she turned, the abyss was replaced in an instant with a gigantic room divided in two by the bars of a cage which reached from the floor to the roof. Kushina's footsteps resonated through her mindscape as she approached the bars.
''What do you want fox? If you haven't noticed, I'm a little busy right now.''
The Kyuubi bore it's fangs at the girl, growling, its crimson eyes trying to pierce into her. ''One day I'm going to eat you girl, just you watch.''
''Good for you, now if that's all I've got something to do.'' She had been taught not to fear the fox demon, which so long as it was sealed within her, she was in control of. This gave her the confidence to brush off the creature as though it were just an insect buzzing about her head.
''Wait girl...''
''What now? If you'd like I could nail your mouth shut!''
''There's no way you're going to win at the rate you're going. Just this one time I'm doing something to help you.'' The beast was not known for its benevolence which was what made Kushina so uneasy. ''This isn't kindness. I still despise you with all my being; it's just that someone like that can't be allowed to win. I refuse to allow someone like her to triumph.''
''What are you talking about? You mean Hayami?''
''Yes. She and that Onigami brat; one day, they too will come to fear me, make no mistake about it.''
In an instant the room disappeared and the real world returned to her. The stadium was buzzing with the murmurs of speculation from the audience as to what had just happened. Standing across from her was Hayami, who had not moved.
''Don't make any sudden moves, slowly make your way toward her.''
Pretending she was still blind she inched forward, arms outstretched as though she were feeling her way. As she did this, Hayami called for the proctor and began to explain what she had done. Distracted by explanation, Kushina saw her opportunity, dashing forward and blindsiding Hayami and sending her flying.
All chatter ceased as Hayami landed. ''But... how did you...?''
''Full marks for effort but genjutsu isn't gonna work on me! Now it's my turn; Sealing Art: Five Piercing Rods!'' Hayami rolled just in the nick of time to avoid being pinned down by the five pillars of light. What looked to be a clear cut victory for Hayami had now turned into a game of cat and mouse.
The unexpected turn of events was riling up the crowd. ''Now that's what I'm talking about!'' Makito was also revelling in the excitement.
''You know Makito, if I didn't know any better I'd say you're rooting for Kushina here,'' Mikoto teased.
''Hmph, think what you want.''
''Guys, be ready to block your ears.'' They looked at Kazuki quizzically. ''Hayami's backed into a corner, it's about time she used the other technique.'' Rather than asking this time, they just did as they were told.
Hayami knew that she had no other choice; as much as she didn't want to do it, she had no choice. Kushina was better than her in pretty much every aspect: faster, stronger, greater stamina. There was no way that she was going to win in a head on assault. Starting quiet and deep, her voice increased in both pitch and volume rapidly.
''That's not going to work, didn't I already tell you?''
She continued until her voice emitted a loud, high pitched noise. 'Now!' Focusing her chakra into her throat and the melodic note became a horrific, ear-crushing screech, turning the sweet girl into a banshee. Those in the crowd covered their ears in a vain effort to block out the noise; even the earplugs didn't manage to block the sound completely.
Kushina was forced to her knees due to the pain in her head, and was on the verge of unconsciousness when it all came to a spluttering stop.
Hayami doubled over coughing heavily, clutching at her throat. 'Maybe I overdid it,' she thought.
Kushina's blurred vision saw this, as did the Kyuubi.
''Now girl! Do it!''
Stumbling to her feet she closed the distance, slamming her hands on the ground in front of her target. Hayami had but a moment to be shocked before numerous chains erupted from the ground, wrapping themselves around her.
With her arms and legs bound she had no way to stop Kushina from slapping a seal over her mouth; once activated, she was left unable to move as well as speak.
Kushina, rubbing her temple to ease the pain (the action was mimicked by a good number of the crowd), grinned weakly at her defeated friend. ''Game over.'' With soft, slightly watery eyes, Hayami silently nodded in agreement.
''Ladies and gentlemen, the winner is Kushina Uzumaki!'' From out of nowhere the proctor reappeared, seemingly unaffected by what had just happened.
As the crowd applauded, Kushina released the seals and the two shook hands. ''Girls, head inside and get yourselves checked out by the medics.''
''Oh bloody hell, my head is killing me!'' Kushina cried out as soon as they were out of sight.
''Well at least you are able to talk properly still,'' Hayami responded, considerably quieter than her counterpart.
''Ugh, that was seriously cool though. I didn't know you had stuff like that in you.''
''Yeah well,'' she whispered, ''I thought I'd surprise you. How did you break my genjutsu anyway?''
''Family secret,'' was all she said as Hayami opened the door.
''SUPER CLIPBOARD STRIKE!''
Hayami was lucky that she wasn't alone because if she were she'd have been knocked out by the high speed clipboard flying at her head. In this case though, Kushina just picked it out of the air, having had enough practise over the last month.
''You're never gonna surprise me kid.''
''WHAT HAVE I TOLD YOU ABOUT ATTACKING PATIENTS?!''
With a whack around the head from Tsunade, Shizuka clutched her head in pain as a young man with the same hair colour as her looked on, shaking his head.
''You two just can't stop can you?''
''You really need to learn how to control your sister.''
''No way! I'm fine as I am, right Bro?'' Shizuka protested.
The trio continued talking amongst themselves, forgetting that they even had a job to be doing. That is until Kushina reminded them.
''Can we get on with this please?''
''Oh sorry,'' the man said with an apologetic smile, ''let's get started Kushina. Come on you.'' He pinched Shizuka by the ear and dragged her across the room much to her chagrin as Kushina followed, taking a seat on one of the four empty beds in the room.
Hayami sat down on another, Tsunade perching next to her.
''How are you feeling then?''
''Pretty good I think, bit sore in the throat though.''
''I can tell.'' She said, examining Hayami. ''You did well out there girl, I even thought you had won for a while.''
''Thanks. Say, Tsunade, who are those two over there?''
''Oh, the guy is a... colleague of mine. His name's Dan Katō and the annoying little brat is his sister, Shizuka.''
''I heard that!''
''Concentrate!''
''Sure thing bro!''
Tsunade continued, much quieter this time, ''It's true she's young but she's up there with the best of civilian practitioners.''
''You mean she's not a ninja?''
''Oh no no. As she was growing up, Dan was studying how to become a medic and let's just say he's not the neatest of people, leaving books all over the place. One day she picked one up and sat there just reading, page after page and it snowballed from there. I'm amazed she managed to make sense of them at all to be honest... sometimes I wish she hadn't. Babysitting her around the hospital all day isn't easy.'' She chuckled cheerfully at the thought.
Hayami smiled warmly at the woman. ''You know, this is the first time I've heard you talk about your life.''
''Huh? What do you mean?''
''To Kazuki and I you're the incredible women who got us where we are today and yet we don't know the first thing about you. You're one of the Sannin and a med-nin but other than that, nothing.''
''Oh come on, you're exaggerating.''
''No she isn't. Here, catch.'' Kazuki tossed a bottle of water to Hayami, who gratefully gulped it down.
''Thanks,'' her voice was clearer as a result of the drink. 'Who knew water could have such magical healing powers?' she thought.
''No problem, it was good to see that my sacrifices weren't a waste.''
''Sorry, but who else was I going to experiment on?''
''Experiment? Hayami, what have you been doing to your boyfriend this time?'' Tsunade had managed to turn a friendly chat into an awkward situation, for Hayami at least, who choked on her remaining water.
''Don't say stupid things. Anyway, I'm off. There's a match for me to win.''
The door slammed behind Kazuki, stopping Hayami's spluttered protests from reaching him and within seconds he had stepped out into the arena where Mikoto was waiting. The anticipation for this match was great as the famed female prodigy of the Uchiha clan was fighting. Based on the various bets made and odds drawn up, Kazuki didn't have a very good chance of victory; seeing Mikoto stood, arms crossed and with a confident smirk on her face it was hard to dispute this.
''So you're finally here. I thought you had run off or something.''
''Big words Uchiha. Think you can back them up?''
''Just wait and see.''
They faced off, waiting to be let loose. ''The next match is between Mikoto Uchiha from Konoha and Kazuki Onigami, also from Konoha.''
Up in the Kage box, sat alongside the leaders of the two participating villages on a rather extravagant looking black throne was the blond girl whom Makito had had a close encounter with during his little sneaking mission a few weeks ago. She was sat with lidded eyes one leg folded over the other, her head resting on her hand. This changed when she heard Kazuki's name; she leaned forward slightly, her attention caught.
The Hokage saw this minor change. ''Something interests you my lady?''
''One could say that monkey.''
''You may begin!''
''Fire Style: Phoenix Flower Jutsu!''
The call came from both simultaneously and the two jutsu clashed; Mikoto was one step ahead as shuriken hidden within the flames shot out. Kazuki wasn't concerned and he drew his blade, intercepting each one with a series of slashes which connected with each target, knocking them to the floor. Threat dealt with, he stood calm as a cucumber, blade in hand. Mikoto looked happily at this picture. ''That's it. That's the look of the person I want to beat!''
Hayami and Kushina had just returned to the contender's box, having been cleared by Tsunade and the others. They arrived in time to see them charge at one another, engaging in a dance between Kazuki's sword and Mikoto's kunai held, one in each hand.
Kouta, who was thoroughly uninterested by the fight, turned to the newcomers. ''Hey sis, not bad down there. It'll stop the old man from bursting a blood vessel.''
''Thanks Kou.'' Not saying anything further Kushina sat next to Makito, engaging in quiet conversation. Kouta glared at the two, most likely annoyed at being brushed off.
Hayami didn't like letting such perfect opportunities to tease someone go by. ''Is someone jealous?''
''Hmph, as if.''
Back in the fight, Mikoto had gained some distance as close combat was never going to work against Kazuki, forcing her to resort to long-range attacks; this was equally ineffective as Kazuki's swordsmanship was at such a level that everything she sent at him was as difficult to deflect as swatting a fly.
''You don't disappoint, do you Kazuki. You're just as good as I expected,'' she said, admitting her admiration.
''Good, after years of training I'd be ashamed if I wasn't.''
''It's about time I kicked it up a notch then. Summoning Jutsu!'' Smoke billowed around from the spot where her hands connected with the ground. Hissing emanated from the fast-dissipating smokescreen and a black cat large enough to be ridden was revealed.
''You called Mistress?''
''Yes Ruri, I've gotten you a new toy to play with.'' Kazuki didn't particularly take to being referred to as a 'toy'.
''You're too kind Mistress. I may be a little rough if that is acceptable?'' Rough didn't sound very appealing either.
Mikoto grinned darkly. ''Go ahead, sink your claws in, just don't kill him.'' With a mighty cry the cat bounded towards Kazuki who... well he didn't react as expected. A few moments ago he was engaging Mikoto on the arena floor and now he was stood high on the arena wall with a giant cat raised on its hind legs scratching its claws below him.
''Come down little boy.''
''… Do I look stupid to you?!''
Makito and Hayami face palmed at the sight of the quite literal game of cat and mouse. ''Uhh guys... what the hell's going on?'' Minato asked.
With a deep sigh, Makito responded, ''when I first met him I never even suspected that was the one thing he was afraid of… But after that incident…''
''That was an awkward mission... right in front of the client too,'' Hayami added.
Kouta's snickering erupted into all out laughter at Kazuki's cry. ''I HATE CATS! Go on! Get lost! Shoo! Shoo!'' There were many others who shared in Kouta's schadenfreude. Embarrassed by this, Kazuki shot a small fireball at Ruri's face. It didn't do anything except to annoy the female cat who hissed angrily at him; at this point poor Kazuki was so high up that he was pretty much in the stands.
This spectacle, although highly amusing, had to be stopped. The proctor reappeared, shouting ''Onigami, if you don't get down from there in the next ten seconds you will be disqualified!''
Even with this ultimatum in place Kazuki was paralysed. 'I can't do this...'
'There's no reason to be afraid boy.' Kazuki's eyes widened. There was a voice inside his head... that wasn't his. 'Yes that is correct now cease your pointless procrastination!'
'Who are you?'
'That is unimportant, I came here to be amused, something you are failing horrendously at I must say.'
He was getting annoyed now, who was this person to be talking to him like that? 'Well I'm sorry that-'
'Such a poor, hapless child. Perhaps it would have been better if you had just died three years ago with your village.'
That had done it. He could take the laughter. He could stand to be underestimated. He would take it all without saying a word. But talking about his home in such a way crossed the line! As his emotions were brought to a boil, his grip on the rubber hilt only tightened.
Enraged he leapt from the wall, roaring and catching Ruri off guard. ''I'LL SHOW YOU!'' A scissor kick sent the cat flying, much to Mikoto's surprise. Not wanting to be shown up by a human, Ruri recovered quickly and pounced, claws extended. Instead of moving he just raised his sword, blocking both sets, shocking everybody with the ease at which he did so with only one hand gripping the blade.
''How... did you...?''
''Time to put this kitty down!'' he yelled.
With his free arm he layed into the cat's exposed underside repeatedly, sending her flying back the way she came. Defenceless in the air, Ruri could do nothing to stop Kazuki who was about to slice her in half. ''Ruri, go back!'' In a puff of smoke the cat disappeared, leaving Kazuki to land cleanly. His fierce eyes met Mikoto's which were glistening in a fearful attraction. His sudden change was frightening, yet she couldn't look away, the storm of emotion before her was oddly alluring.
''Remind me never to buy you a cat for your birthday.''
The joke diffused his rage as swiftly as it had formed. He blinked a few times and looked around, remembering just where he was. ''Well that was something...''
Mikoto found herself laughing at the situation they were in. ''How about we finish this?'' Kazuki nodded. ''Alright, let's make this something to remember,'' she said pulling out a scroll. From within she drew out a katana.
''Really? That's not a very good idea, just a heads up.''
Bowing her head, she closed her eyes. ''Normally that would be true but I have something that I think might just even the odds.'' Her head bolted up, eyes blazing a crimson red with two tomoe whirling in each.
''Nice Sharingan, does it actually do anything?''
''Let's see shall we?''
The pair clashed. Kazuki was clearly the better combatant in this fight with years of experience but Mikoto's eyes allowed her to read exactly what he was going to do; which enabled her to keep up with her opponent.
''You're not too bad Mikoto, give it some time and training and someday you might even be a challenge.''
''I'll give you a rematch any time you want Kazuki, this has been the best fight I've ever had.''
''Same here.'' Kazuki's blade proved to outmatch Mikoto's, slicing clean through. Hooking his foot behind hers he swept her legs from under her, eliciting a gasp from her, forcing her to the ground. With a blade pressed up against her throat she had no choice but to surrender.
''The winner is Kazuki Onigami!''
'That is what I wanted to see. Good show boy.' He felt the foreign presence leave his mind sooner than he could respond.
In comparison to the previous match this had been much more action packed and the upset of the no-name underdog beating the prodigy incited wild cheering around the stadium, although Hayami simply clenched her fists at what she was seeing.
Kouta saw this as a chance for payback. ''Jealous much?''
''Just shut up!'' she spat venomously.
''Uhh Kazuki, could you maybe...''
Realizing his blade was still against Mikoto's throat he put it away with a hasty apology.
''No that wasn't it... could you get off me?'' He was straddling her mid-section in front of all these people and that was fairly embarrassing to Mikoto, not so much to Kazuki.
''What's wrong?''
She saw this, not as ignorance, but as a challenge. ''Okay then, don't move. I don't have a problem,'' she winked.
''Alright you two, disengage.'' At the Proctor's behest they did so. After a quick swing by the med-bay, complete with Tsunade making mocking 'meow' noises, the two were greeted by congratulations and a few laughs over the match from most.
''Hayami, you okay?'' Kazuki inquired.
''I'm perfectly fine,'' she said.
''Are you su-''
''I just said didn't I?''
This was the first time she had ever been short with him so the confusion he was feeling was understandable. Just a little while ago she had been fine and now this? It appeared that her mood swings had finally made their triumphant return. ''I'd give up kid if I were you. You just beat one women, you might not survive another.'' Jiraiya quipped, lending his knowledge garnered from his various 'experiences' to the boy.
It didn't take too long for the mostly cheerful atmosphere to die as everyone remembered what was next. 'Remember' with the help of Kouta who silently climbed the railing, jumped off the edge and fell the distance to the arena; landing perfectly.
Makito stood up.
Kushina and Hayami wore concerned expressions.
Kazuki and Mikoto looked on passively.
''Good luck pal,'' Minato said, slapping him on the back. ''I know you'll do great!''
''Thanks...'' it was difficult to identify his mood as he stepped towards the railing.
''Makito...'' Kushina muttered, grasping the back of his shirt. ''I...''
He turned and playfully punched her arm. ''No worries Kushina, I'll go out there and show your brother just how good I really am!''
''Damn right,'' Kazuki spoke up. ''And when you're done we can have our match.''
''Sure thing.'' Leaning back, he fell into the air, spinning in a ball and landing in a crouched position.
Kouta was stood, arms crossed and cocky grin cemented in place. ''Nice of you to get down here Fluffy, I thought you had turned tail and ran. I wouldn't have blamed you, it's not every day you have to fight someone like me.''
Rather than responding, Makito just unstrapped thick material from around his arms and legs and tossed them aside. The product was four craters where each of them landed; he slammed his fists together and grinned. ''Just shut up and fight, I've got something to do after this, so let's make it quick!''
''Cocky prick.''
''Match three: Makito Nanaya of Konoha verses Kouta Uzumaki from Uzu. Begin!''
