Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or any other works that I use for inspiration.
"Speaking"- Speech
"Thinking" - Thoughts
"Speaking" - Non-Mortal Speech
"Thinking" - Non-Mortal Thoughts
Please read the Author's notes at the end.
Chapter Twelve: Crazy
"Look what we got here, boys!"
Lead to a dead end, by unrelenting pursuers breathing down her neck.
"Ain't that the bitch that clone asshole was talking to earlier?"
The three teens creepily closed the distance; cladded in their strange, grimy yellow jumpsuits with stitching up the middle.
"Yea. Weirdo even kissed her hand."
Their voices were distorted by their mouthpieces. Some of their eyes were hidden by blind fold with different holes cut out among them.
"Are you serious?! I'm gonna be killed and it's all because of someone I don't even know!"
All she could do was brandish a kunai as her back hit the wall.
It had seemed that Karin's life was one bad situation after another.
For as long as she could remember it had been the redhead and her mother, traveling to find a new home after they were displaced from their own. They had made their way to Kusagakure, where it was discovered that both women had a unique ability to heal those who had bitten them by transferring their chakra and promoting the healing process. Thanks to a deal with a high ranking official, Karin's mother was able to secure them a home as long as she healed the many casualties they had suffered following a surprise attack.
Her mother upheld her duties and healed many of those hurt. Sadly, she was lost to her beloved daughter; passing due to transferring too much chakra to the wounded.
Immediately afterwards, the duty was passed onto Karin, much to her disapproval.
She didn't know much about her own origins or what she was cursed with this ability, but it seemed the rest of the world had the answers. She was simply a tool that others would assess and would only secure if she had value. Karin figured that's why her teammates were so eager to leave her to go and secure a ticket. She was there to keep them in shape, nothing more nothing less.
"Don't worry girlie. We'll just rough you up a bit. I don't think your boyfriend will mind much."
"Let me get the first one. Bastard really pissed me off. So you'll have to-Ugh!"
Karin recognized the teen from his earlier dismissal of the blonde's threat. What was unrecognizable, was the blade suddenly sticking out the side of his abdomen.
It was a strangely-shaped knife they seemed to let off a sizzling sound while it remained in the teen. Behind the teen holding the peculiar blade was a black clad figure with a breathing device of her own covering her mouth.
"Lu! Our grace's orders were not to kill anyone."
A new voice spoke out from above, on the wall Karin leaned against. Sitting atop was an identical looking woman, except her color palette seemed to be reversed.
"But I didn't. This was the most efficient way of dealing with them. Now they'll have to flee to get their friend treated."
The woman ripped the blade out mercilessly earring a gut wrenching screech from its victim as he dropped to the ground.
"I even made it so the wound wouldn't bleed out. Although the internal damage. . ."
"Then maybe that wasn't the most effective method?"
"Whatever. . . If they feel like avenging their pathetic teammate all they need do is strike. I'll gladly grant their wish to leave this realm."
Her sister's somewhat pensive stare caused Lu rethink her actions, but then she thought about the manner in which her majesty would handle the situation.
"Bitch! Who the fuck do you think you-"
Such vulgar language landed the boy with his eyes completely covered a swift and powerful kick to the chest. He took a short flight, soaring until slamming against the nearby wall.
"Boys and their little insults. . . Whether you have strength or not this is how you've chosen to use it. Against a defenseless maiden simply because you were too cowardly to face the true target of your aggression."
The sharp and stinging pain was a clear indication that he had broken a few ribs. Breathing alone went from a natural process to a painful endeavor.
"If it wasn't for our lord's orders you'd already be dead. He is most benevolent! Though I do wish we could watch you be devoured by the creatures of the deep."
"Oboro. . . Kaguri. . ."
Their teammate remained standing despite the strength to do so slowly leaving his body.
Their team leader had stopped his painful flopping about, starting to look worse for wear. His skin had already paled quite a bit, a clear sign that he was indeed bleeding internally.
"Whether you are smarter or luckier than your friends, I do not know, but I would suggest that you take them to be treated. Especially the one with a mouth filthy enough to insult my sister."
Tui jumped down and approached the one her sister had kicked, to deliver a strike of her own.
Yet again the boy was airborne. Her kick was powerful enough to lift him up and slam him into the wall, leaving an indentation and a pool of blood spewing from his breather.
"That certainly doesn't sound good, sister."
Lu referring to the choking sound the teen was making. Most likely due to the copious amounts of blood he was spewing being blocked by the mouthpiece.
"Indeed, I believe you're right, sister. The other one doesn't seem much better either. It's a mystery why they're still here."
What was going on here!?
That was all Karin could think about as events unfolded. She was at the mercy of these boys mere moments ago, and now they seemed to be on death's door thanks to her strange looking saviors. All she could do was watch as the remaining teen slowly approached his downed teammates.
"Good boy. . . Guess it was the former with this one sister."
"Yes sister, I believe you're right. If he behaves, they'll be able to leave without issue."
Their eerily bright eyes struck cords of panic fear within the young shinobi.
Of course as a ninja, they were prepared for the possibility of death, but what is one to do when it's standing in front of you? How do you act when the afterlife actually sends messengers?
"A-Alright. W-we don't want a-any trouble. . ."
"Mubi. . . You coward. . ."
Kagari managed to cough out the insult through the pain.
"S-shut up-p-p!"
The boy could hardly get the words out. He was trembling that badly.
"Hurry up. . . I'm getting sick of seeing you all take breath."
Mubi grabbed his teammates and moved like lightning out of the alley way they had been in.
He knew his teammates would be upset, but he wanted nothing more to do with this exam, not if his very existence was what was going to be tested.
"Finally! We are very sorry that the encounter took so long, princess."
"Yes, very sorry, princess."
All Karin could do was stare. She was no match for the team that was able to harm her and they were no match for these two. Regardless of what they were calling her she would be insane to overstep.
"Lu! Put the blades away. They are scaring her."
"Oh! Sorry! Sorry!"
The level of insanity continued to climb as the one identified as Lu had her curious carvers meld into her palms.
"You must have many questions, but please know that we are here to protect you."
Tui approached her, though as expected, the maiden was too frightened to allow it.
"We are Tui and Lu, vessels of our lord, his grace, the emperor of the Uzumaki and soon the world!"
It was their way to add a bit of whimsy to all that they did, so they danced their dance in hopes it would make the young maiden less tense.
"How are you guys doing that?"
"Doing what?"
"Speaking and moving like that? At the same time?"
Karin didn't know how much more she could take.
Bad enough she was almost murdered for the guy; now she was dealing with his crazy friends. They weren't at the exam briefing so who were they?
"We are sisters!"
"We do everything together."
Their mouths were covered, but their smiles were conveyed easy enough. Still though, the question was weighing on her mind.
"What does your emperor want with me?"
"You've met him haven't you?"
"You've felt him haven't you?"
They each occupied one of Karin's shoulders as if for support.
The questions sounded less as if they were trying to confirm something with her and more so as if they were reassuring her. Confirming for her that she had an experience unlike any other.
"Yea, I met him. . ."
"Then you know there's a special bond between you two."
"You are family."
"I have no family. . ."
No matter how many weirdos popped out of the woodworks, none of them could replace her beloved mother.
"I'm sure that was the case for a long time, much like our lord."
"His mother and father gave their lives to ensure some semblance of safety for their child."
"What. . ?"
It was hard for something of that nature not to catch her attention.
"Yes, while defending this village's people they had lost their lives. Despite this sacrifice, their heir is subjugated to prejudice and persecution by the very people they had protected. To make matters worse, they use him. . . Our lord performs a service in this village that only he can, yet they treat him like an abomination. "
She might not have had the strength, but Karin was as insightful as any veteran she had come across.
That look conveyed with just their eyes was enough to tell her a few things. Tui and Lu weren't just loyal, they were devoted to their lord. His enemies were theirs and any wrong done to him was one they could not and would not tolerate. Not if they could help it.
Secondly was that this Naruto character was more than just a weird arrogant loudmouth. The respect these two had for him, the way he carried himself, all of it. Karin hadn't experienced much of the world, but if there was anyone who gave off the impression of a ruler, well that boy was the closest.
None of this confirmed their connection for her, but what did was Tui's words.
Naruto was being used and mistreated for something only he could do. Karin knew nothing of her blood or what clan they hailed from, but she knew others did and they wanted it for themselves.
Karin and her mother were taken advantage of because of their abilities, yet they were used and abused. Karin only began reviving better treatment when the powers that be realized she was the last of her kind. If she perished so would her healing ability.
The girl knew the sisters' words were true for that burning look in their eyes matched her own. That hatred and disgust for another, for everyone who's done her and her precious person wrong, there was no faking that look.
"We are not too sure of the familial connection, but you are an Uzumaki. Same as our lord. All he would like is a chance to prove his intentions are pure."
Karin couldn't deny what she felt in her presence.
A sense of comfort and safety she hadn't felt since her mother had passed. A feeling only one's family could provide.
"You two. . . You'll protect me until I'm able to talk with Naruto?"
"Of course, lady Karin. Those are our orders after all. As well as providing you with what you'll need to pass this phase."
It was then that Lu pulled out several maps while Tui had a bunch of tickets in hand.
"Alright. It couldn't hurt. . . Plus, it would be nice to have some family."
"There is no better family for you than the Uzumaki empire. We guarantee you that!"
Akagahara
"Damn! Never expected all of you to make it through the first part. There weren't even any bodies to collect."
Surprised or disappointed?
Anko truly couldn't decide how to feel as she looked to see just over half the teams had passed from the first portion. She was more than happy it wasn't some boring bland written test, but she definitely expected to see something more. The most interesting thing was some shinobis from the rain coming into a medical tent with some pretty severe wounds.
"Before the second part begins, you all will have 30 minutes. In that time, as a team you'll have to put a teammate up for nomination. Once all the nominees have been chosen, you'll be informed on what the second part entails. For now, you kiddies can do whatever you'd like, but the rules from part one still stand. Also, you can't leave this clearing. If you violate any rules then you're out. You can scrap all you'd like but no killing. Otherwise I don't give two shits what you do."
She spoke with her back to a somewhat large mountain range with a small man-made path leading into its peak, high enough for it to vanish along the horizon line.
There wasn't much known about this place other than its old lore. It was an extravagant joint effort of the first and second Hokages. The younger brother wanted to have a way to train their shinobi of the different harsh conditions that they might face while having a controlled variable to ensure their safety.
Once you made it over the ridge, the truth of this baffling territory was revealed. An expansive desert canyon with winding dunes of sand. A majestic natural hourglass with the sky as a clear blue ceiling.
It was a beautiful sight to behold, a miniature wonder of the world right in their backyard, yet that beauty held ugliness deep in its bowels. The cankerous heat and the cantankerous cold left all wicked, warped, blasted or burned. The fauna included vultures circling over you by day and vampire bats dive-bombing you at night. Every sun-seared abomination has poison, paw, claw, stinger, etc. Every sun-scoured scrap of fauna had barbs, hooks or thorns. They want to rip and rend you, snag and splinter you. Akagahara was just a vast, sorrowful saucepan of emptiness where anything sentient resents anything else living.
Many in the clearing couldn't tell what was more brutal, the searing rays the sun casted down from overhead or the calamity they had to endure to reach this point.
As the young lord looked at the flock of potential foes, Naruto was elated to see that all those he wanted to pass had done so. Hinata and the rest of her team had arrived before them, as well as the sand siblings and team Guy.
"Karin!"
While looking over the teams that had made it, he had noticed his fellow Uzumaki had been delivered to the clearing safe and sound.
"Where the hell were you? And how the fuck did you get a ticket?"
Her teammates were rather plain in appearance. Some brown haired stocky looking boys wearing similar beige clothing to hers.
"I got it when you guys straight up abandoned me!"
"Who the hell do you think you're talking to you dumb-"
If it wasn't for the emblems they wore, no one would've thought they were a team.
One of the boys thought himself tough and was about to strike her when a familiar onyx chain caught his wrist.
"If I were you, I'd stop before you agitate me. . ."
All could see an onyx chain coming out from Naruto's haori. It was truly impressive, both it's look and the fact that he was restraining someone else yet his hand wasn't touching the chain.
The finish of the links resembled the blackest night sky, littered with stars shimmering with a burning intensity. Such a wondrous sight for all lucky enough to witness it.
"The Uzumaki kid. . ."
"So you know me? Good. That should make this an easy conversation then. Leave her alone for I'm sure you know who she is."
"She's our teammate and you should-"
The boy dropped to the ground in an instance, and with his consciousness went all the chitter chatter.
"Finally. All this noise was making it difficult to rest."
Sasuke chimed in from the spot he was standing in, which severely confused his female teammate.
He stood absolutely still like most times. Sakura swore most of the time he didn't even blink. After everything, he'd start scratching his head and yawning as if to drive home how bored or uninterested he was.
"Wait! Wait! Wait! No fucking way! No fucking way he's asleep all the damned time! Is that why he's always ignoring me and sensei even if we're right in front of him!? He's fucking napping!?"
What the absolute hell was going on?
"What the hell did you do to him?!"
The other boy did a decent enough job hiding his fear. The sweat that had overtaken his brow was a dead giveaway unfortunately.
"To think that such a weakling would to raise their hand at the crown. The audacity."
"ANSWER ME!"
Naruto's disconcerting demeanor did an excellent job on the hearts of the crowd.
It was the his opponent's chance to impress, but the boy's faintheartedness stopped both the rise of his reputation and steps as fast as they started.
The young lord wasn't concerned at all with anyone or anything other than the boys and their rude behavior.
What could possibly instill the kind of confidence, or arrogance, that would allow someone to conduct themselves in such a way?
"I wouldn't come any closer if I were you. I recently decided to stop holding back and well. . . It would be a shame if the first serious blow I land on someone is a fatal one."
That was the only clue he provided as Naruto retracted his chain back to his person.
"Shut your damn mouth, Konoha scum!"
Pride's influence crept deep, for it was the driving force behind the boy's actions. With Kunai in hand, the genin launched forward.
"Hehehe. You fool. . . You won't even see this one coming."
Naruto simply straightened out his posture and spread his hands out wide, inviting all that would dare approach.
The devilish look he adopted did an excellent job with disturbing everyone in sight, but none were affected by it to the degree of Kankuro and Temari.
They could've sworn they were looking into the future. A reality in which their brother evolved and devolved at the same time. A world where he would wreck chaos with absolute control and efficiency.
"This is insane!"
"This is psychotic!"
All the words in all the realms couldn't accurately establish their plight. If this boy had his way, if he could get his hooks into their brother, all hope would be lost.
"Hehehe. . ."
It sounded so similar.
The small chuckle that escaped Gaara's lips. Turning their attention to him, Kankuro and Temari could feel his focus. He was solely interested in the young lord, and that interest was mounting quickly.
The world began to creep slower and slower with each step the grass genin took. All watched in anticipation, eagerly awaiting the next show of force the blonde had up his sleeve. Most of the teams had witnessed the effectiveness of his first threat, so whatever advantage could be gained was vital. Let the blonde get in as many scraps as he'd like and once his bag of tricks was depleted, the other participants would tear him apart.
"It's time to die kono-!"
As he neared, about to slash through his opponent's jugular, disarray erupted forth along with some unseen force.
Dust and debris dominated the air within a matter of moments, and dissipated with whips of rapid winds.
"Hmmm. . . I wonder what just happened? Did one of you decide to interfere?"
No one dared to answer once they saw what had become of the foolish child that dared step to the self-proclaimed king.
Laying in a pile of rubble quite a ways away was the grass genin.
Covered in blood from the various cuts and bruises all over his person, most likely sustained when he collided with the massive Boulder on the other side of the clearing. What was most alarming was the strange wound carved into the boy's chest. It resembled a claw or talon of a devastating beast like a dragon.
"Man oh man! Whatever happened, I'm glad I'm not him. Look like it fucking hurt. . . Pfftt HAHAHAHA!"
Gaara's focus never faltered, for his prey continued to grow further tantalizing.
"What was that. . ? And what's that?"
Karin approached Naruto hesitantly.
She had never seen anything remotely close to what she was witnessing now. Swaying back to back, shifting side to side. It was a mad macabre of malicious magnitude but she could see it somewhat clearly.
"Wait. . ? Are you saying that you can see it, lady Karin?"
"What kind of question is that?! Of course I can!"
"Then ask yourself why everyone else is staring like we're out of our minds?"
That's when Karin noticed what the young lord was referring to.
The crowd that ensembled looked on as if they were infants. Fascination, confusion, terror, all born from the unknown.
"They. . . They can't see it?"
"Of course not. . . What could any of these fools perceive. Try as they might they can't see past what they've already seen. They can't comprehend what they haven't already learned. Or is it more accurate to say they've learned all they are allowed to?"
Words spoken with weight and wisdom. It came of as an educated assessment, not a biased judgement.
"This is my strength, Karin. Everyone is blessed with it in some shape or form, but it's up to that individual to nurture said strength to new heights. I can show you how. . . You can gain the strength you rightfully deserve along with everything else, all you need do is join me and the Uzumaki empire!"
"I appreciate the help of you and your vassals, but I still don't know if I can trust you. Or if you're even my family. . ."
"Then please take a look at this picture and tell me what you think?"
He took a polaroid out of his inner hoari pocket and handed it to her.
"I'm not too sure what a picture is gonna-"
Karin couldn't get over the familiarity of the female in the picture.
"She looks just like my mother! She looks like Mama!"
The maiden did her best but she couldn't hold back the tears.
She didn't even have a picture of her mother but if this woman's hair was a bit shorter she would've easily mistaken the two for each other.
"This woman is my mother. . . Unfortunately, I can't remember ever seeing this beautiful face for myself. She was taken from me before I had the strength to do anything about it. . . That has been the fate of our clan for too long, but I want to make sure that we and those we cherish will never go through this kind of pain and anguish again. I don't want to fix the world's problems or make it a peaceful land for everyone. I want to make a world for me and mine to do as we please, and whatever comes our way we will handle, together. It's a simple dream really."
These words resonated with Karin in a way she had never felt before.
A life of freedom.
One where all could live a life of their own volition rather than to satiate someone else's needs. A life where one could form bonds instead of having their spirits constantly broken. A life where she didn't have to be alone anymore.
It wasn't until it was before her that Karin realized how much she yearned for it.
"Let's do it then."
"Really? You were quite hesitant a moment ago."
"Well. . . I still don't know if this is the right choice, but its better then my life right now. I don't want to live like this anymore!"
Slavery.
There was hardly another descriptor for what Karin had been suffering through the past several years.
"This isn't what mama wanted for me. . . She was strong and resilient. She would've done anything to have made a better life for me, but she isn't here to make those sacrifices for me anymore. . ."
Though, instead of plunging her deeper into her grief, Karin's thoughts fueled her with inspiration.
"I'll grow. . . Into a woman like her. Someone who can always see an answer no matter what obstacles are in front of them! Besides, having a family member capable of what you are, how could I say no to that?"
Despite how crazy it all was; putting her faith in this complete stranger, Karin felt no worry.
For the first time in her life, the choice was hers to make.
"First things first. I doubt your team will be able to continue and there's no way in hell I'm letting you go back to that village."
"How do you expect me to abandon my village without them catching on?"
"Trust me the empire isn't just some nonsense I've been spouting. You are about to have your mind blown, my lady. Now please give me your hand."
Naruto bit his finger and used blood to form an Uzumaki swirl on Karin's palm.
"As far as escape it will be quite easy. You just need to find a puddle, about the size of yourself, and place your hand in. Your escorts will handle everything from there."
"Do you mean the two from before?"
Karin was excited to see the twins again. Having friends that stabbed foul mouth boys for fun was a daydream come to life for the young maiden.
"Yes, it was always the plan to have them act as your protectors until I could better assess your abilities. They will take you to my most trusted knights who I know will treat you as the princess you are. They will also begin your instruction. Once we have a chance, Sasuke and I will meet up with you."
"Ok. . . But you never answer my question. What the hell is that?"
"My lord refers to it as Void Talon. . . It's one of the many techniques he's developed through the use of his Hatsu. You'll come to understand it in time. An explanation right now might do more harm than good."
"Ah! Lady Karin, it is my absolute honor and pleasure to introduce you to my most trusted knight, Lord Sasuke Uchiha."
Time stopped and for a moment, so did her heart.
In this one moment in time, an anchor formed in her soul, creating a tether to this plane of reality, it was the moment she was entranced.
"H-h-hello! I'm K-Karin. . . Karin Uzumaki!"
"Lady Uzumaki, It is truly an honor to see my lord united with a member of his clan. It is also my pleasure to make your acquaintance."
The bow, the touch of his hand, the gentle feel of his lips on her skin.
How could she not love all that he was?
"Please! The pleasure is mine, Lord Uchiha."
Her reaction came from the deepest part of her being.
A redness quickly enveloped her face, a sort of compliment to the eyes and the delicate sweetness within. Karin's smile and shyness came from some deep emotion. Something more real than she had felt in a long time.
"Look at that. . . It's only been a few minutes and she's already talking like a royal. I guess the right influence works wonders, wouldn't you say Karin?"
"What!?"
"No need to worry. You and Sasuke would make a slew of stellar heirs! I'm sure they would prove themselves through character alone. Also, we would be brothers in arms as well as by marriage!"
"If her resolve is as strong as her eyes, I'm sure our marriage would be quite the adventure."
It was far too much.
She had just met him but talks of marriage led to dreams of the future.
Dreams of young ones running around the castle halls while they would watch over them. She would see all his dreams and ambitions come true. Karin could see all they could accomplish, all they would conquer! Beside her king, and his knight, she could see everything.
But only for a moment had she seen all the craziness in store before it all turned black.
"It seems that overwhelmed her."
Before she completely drifted off, she could feel her fall, but Karin didn't fear.
Her white knight had begun fulfilling his role, protecting her from a painful plummet to the ground.
"That burst in chakra might have been the cause. It seems that the Uzumaki blood running through her might have blessed her as it has me. Karin has quite a powerful ability that will serve us immensely well."
The young lord's gaze did not go unnoticed.
"Her hair is truly beautiful my lord. I'm sure you appreciate the color more than I."
"You might grow more of a fondness for it, my friend. . . You'll be seeing a lot more of it in due time."
"What's going on here?"
Anko landed near them and began surveying the downed girl.
"Well it seems that this team was overwhelmed by the pressures of this arduous test. It would be best if we get them looked at immediately."
"I'm sure you and pretty boy had nothing to do with it, right?"
"I'm sure everyone here will give you the same summary of what they saw. . . Though our main concern should be bringing these three to receive medical attention."
"We'll take care of them. You kids can go back with your team, you've only got 15 minutes left."
"Can I offer my assistance?"
Even with the sun's brilliance and the warm aromatic air, this presence inspired chills.
Frigid sensation, enough to solidify one's blood, ran all along Anko's being. She felt the freezing breath on her neck and a looming feeling of dread waft over her, as if she were about to be swallowed whole.
The figure standing over her had long smooth black hair and black eyes. He wore a straw hat on his head with his forehead protector underneath and plain beige attire with a thick purple rope belt tied in a large knot behind his back.
Anko's instincts took over, screaming at her to do whatever necessary to survive whatever had come for her. The Tokubetsu Jōnin was on autopilot at this point with kunai in hand, swinging to cut down the threat.
However, something halted her haste.
"That won't be necessary. Lady Mitarashi is more than capable of assisting these genin. And in the future, please mind the personal space of others."
Between the her and the newcomer, stood the king.
A pensive stare accompanied by a sinister smirk delivered his words, while his current position did the rest of the talking.
"This is nuts! The kid was able to move faster than I turned!? He was right in front of me. . . What's crazier is he caught my arm!"
"Allow me to apologize then. I only meant to offer my help. That girl and I are from the same village and while I've only seen her a few times, I'm confident I could be of service."
"How curious. He's fast and strong. . . But what pushed me back?"
The shady shinobi surveyed for a suggestion, finding none as to what forced the gap.
"Regardless of your intentions, you were quite forward. My Okaasan always says, 'One's space is sacred, and one should do everything to protect it.' You could've gotten hurt."
An invisible hand tightened its grip on the figure's throat before its words hissed out.
"I suppose I'm lucky then. If you hadn't intervened, who knows what would have happened?"
"Indeed, you are lucky. Now, please move along, this girl is under my watch. There's no need to worry about her."
His words were clear. His intent even more so.
"I see, I'll be on my way then. Pardon me. . ."
With that, the fellow scurried off.
"Please see to it that Karin is treated with the utmost care, Lady Mitarashi. . . I have a great deal of respect for you, so please do everything in your power not to disappoint me."
"Watch it! I don't know who you think you are and I don't give a fuck if you think you're a king, I'm your superior!"
Luckily, a few medical-nin arrived.
"I'm aware. . . I'd say it's best we get out of the way and let the medics do their job. Come Sasuke." Once Karin was handed off to one of the medics, the two walked off to regroup with Sakura.
"Fucking little prick."
Anko sneered as they walked on, relieving the ache she felt in her wrist, though she was comforted by the similar look on Sakura's face.
"Are you guys done now? You wasted more than half our time with all this stupidity."
"I apologize, Haruno. It was a matter of great importance."
She couldn't see it. To Sakura, it was just the blonde beast bullying more undeserving innocents.
"*Sigh* It's fine, but to get right to it, I think we should put me up for nomination."
"I don't believe that would be a good idea."
Sasuke responded, sounding almost disappointed.
"Why not? You're both more skilled than me so you should bang this out in no time."
"Thank you for the compliment, but we don't know what the nominee will have to do. It's best to have someone with high versatility take the role, so I'll volunteer."
That cheeky smile of his inspired both confidence and inadequacy within Sakura.
She couldn't argue with the logic and having one of them as back-up did sound like a better idea then her going in alone. That did mean she might have to work more closely with one of them banes of her existence.
The field was bristling with chatter and glances as the teams brainstormed on what the second part would be, yet it turned out to be much more difficult then any would've guessed.
Should a team nominate their strongest?
Their fastest?
Or would it be better for them to send their slowest, or weakest?
"TIME'S UP! NOMINEES, STEP OVER TO MY RIGHT!"
Static filled shrieks permeated through the air as Anko spoke into an effective megaphone.
Monstrous aura enveloped all in its oppressive force as the titans stomped forward.
"Subjugate yourselves before the King!"
Gravity's grip tightened, pushing those unable to resist it's might to a heel.
The crimson haired prince with his large gourd, the heiress and her lavender tresses, along with the golden maned monarch strode forward with rows of eyes staring up at them.
Gaara paid no mind to the fact that his siblings had been affected, blaming it on their weakness. Hinata instead revelled in the fact that her cousin was stuck gazing at her glory, letting a giggle escape her lips.
"Doesn't this feel right, Gaara? You by my side with others bowing before us?"
Gaara chose silence as the best course of action. His prey was cocky and bold, all seasoning for a more delectable meal when the time came.
"Will you freaks cut it out so we can start?"
As the three made it to their location, the crowd, minus the rest of team 7 and team 8 were able to rise to their feet.
"You know you're just making more enemies right? I don't know what the fuck that was and it's not my test, but you idiots are out of your minds."
"It's a lot more fun this way, wouldn't you agree?"
Rather than entertaining the genin further, Anko ushered for the remainder of the nominees to make their way over to the designated area with Rock Lee, Ino, Kabuto and Sai being the ones chosen from their teams.
"Nominees, you will make your way up the path where there will be other shinobi who will explain to you your roles in this part."
The nominees departed quickly, allowing Anko to move right along with the briefing.
"For the second part of the exam, you've been put in a special situation. Your teammate holds vital information and thus are unexpendable assets to your nation. Your mission is to venture into an enemy filled, treacherous terrain and rescue the asset."
The purple haired maiden found pleasure in looking at all the dismal faces. The teams most likely dreaded their nominee choice.
"Your teammates have been restrained and reversed summoned to a random location where they are being guarded and briefed. Hopefully you guys made a good choice because a complaisant hostage only makes your job harder, but I'll help you out with a few pieces of advice." A sadistic gleam twinkled in Anko's eye.
"First, its really hot in the day and really fucking cold at night, so you better figure out how your gonna deal with that fast. Second, the flora and fauna of the region can be dangerous, meaning you should approach with caution. Lastly, you'll have 48 hours before the asset is considered lost. I suggest you use your time wisely instead of running to your deaths full speed. You're allowed to use whatever method you feel necessary to retrieve the asset and protect yourselves, including killing if it comes down to it."
Now that they had the information, it was time to throw them in the lion's den.
"There are other paths leading into the depths of Akagahara. Take whichever one you want. Get captured, get incapacitated or die and that's the end of the road...Any questions? No? THEN GET FUCKING GOING!" T
hey were off at the blaring of the proctor's megaphone, running straight into the unknown.
Akagahara Canyons
"Keep going, Shino! Those bastards are right on our tails!"
The shoes on their feet felt as if they provided little protection as they scurried across the sweltering sands of this literal hell hole.
The heat as if it stemmed from lava in this ludicrous labyrinth. A vast system of caves opening out either into wide or narrow sand filled canyons. The suffocating dry air was draining, and whether it was the vicious vermin or enraged enemies, something was waiting around every chancy corner to rob any and all rest. Many of the participants opted for the speedy route, racing off to complete the exam to escape the evil elements of the canyons. Team 8 was among those who hit the ground running, searching for the hidden Hyuuga in the massive molten maze.
"We're getting closer, but we can't get her with these rain ninjas in toe."
They were relentless in their pursuit, for revenge was what Team Shigure desired. Vengeance for what that bright haired leaf bastard did to Team Oboro, their fellow Amegakure shinobi.
They wore pinstripe light grey jumpsuits with a dark black side going down in the centre and oxygen tanks carried on their alternate sides. Their outfits finished off with altered kasa hats with the Amegakure symbol on the front of it, and on their backs, dark black sheaths carrying four umbrellas.
"I'm going to skewer you and let your corpses fry out here!"
This one had some sort of dark black glasses or markings with separate dark blue lenses and no eyebrows. Bolts from his crossbow zipped through the air, nearly striking the pup on top of Kiba's head.
"You leaf sickos think you can gang up and ambush us!? Pick us off one by one!?"
The other was smaller in stature with tiny black beady eye irides, also sharing in the eyebrow-less trait.
Shino felt the sand's abrasive heat after somersaulting away from a frantically flung flurry of senbon, courtesy the short one.
Hinata had devised a plan to have Shino tag her, Kiba and Akumaru with pheromone emitting insects in case they were divided at some point, but the target kept moving whenever they honed in on it. It seemed that Hinata's movement had finally ceased when fate crossed their paths.
"Shit. . . Shino, we got more enemies up ahead!"
Standing downwind from them, in a narrow canyon passage, another kasa hat wearing shinobi with the Kusagakure emblem sewn in.
"There's a couple of flies floating around."
The genin was bald with a disturbing looking face, wearing black clothing with black arm and leg mesh. His wicked mouth opened, and with his jagged teeth the kusa ninja shed the blood, and formed the seals necessary for a summoning.
"Just be sure not to get caught in my web, cause I'll eat you piece by piece."
Sand and smoke scattered around and once cleared the strange lad was standing on top of a gigantic arachnid.
From its backside, multiple threads of webbing created a wall blocking the path forward.
"Don't you think this is overkill, Kidōmaru? Our orders were to make sure he wasn't interrupted, not to cause a scene."
A scrawny individual with a wooden mask and identical clothing down to the kasa hat, emerged behind the large spider and its summonder.
"Don't ruin my fun, Tayuya! Master said to deal with any non-targets any way we see fit, and I feel it fit to kill em'!"
The creepy cackle from the spider summoner drove home the danger of this situation.
Team 8 found themselves between a rock and a hard place. One side was trying to skewer them while the other seemed hell bent on devouring the flesh off their bones using the 8 legged monstrosity to help.
"Midare, let's turn back. . . We still gotta find Shigure."
"Right when we're about to kill them!? Don't be such a pussy, Baiu!"
The taller of the two rain ninja berated his teammate for his cowardice behavior, but who would blame him?
The spider and its rider began a slow, daunting approach, with each of its legs embedding in the burning sand. The beast seemed to purr in delight.
"Any bright ideas, Shino?"
The beast seemed to purr in delight, be it from the feel of the environment or the fear filling it.
"None really. It's not like I'm equipped to fight spiders of all things."
The cocking of a crossbow behind them might've been concerning if not for the incessant ticks of the approaching beast.
"Aren't they bugs!? Can't you command it!?"
"That's not how it works. Also, they aren't bugs."
The Ame teens recklessly charged forward, causing Shino to take action.
"Earth Style: Sudden Pit."
Once another bolt took to the air, Shino used an aptly named technique. Reintroduced to the burning sand, the Aburame slammed his hands down, instantly creating a hole which swallowed him and his companions.
*SCRRRRREEEEEEEEE*
The hole dropped them further down then Shino predicted, into another system of underground passages. but it got them out of the way of the encroaching danger.
"Damn man, a little warning next time would be nice."
"Next time, you can do something."
Shino thanked the powers that be for the cool breeze that flowed through the underground passageways.
He desperately needed it.
"Asshole. . . You alright, boy?"
Kiba checked up on his companion to see Akumaru a bit shaken but he was brave for his master, letting out a reassuring yap.
"HELP! MIDARE, HELP!"
They couldn't see all of what was going on, but from the bottom of that hole Shino, Kiba and Akumaru could hear the screeching and screams.
They caught glimpses of white strings jutting around. They saw the face of the short Ame ninja as he grabbed and clawed away at the entrance of their escape. Each tear drop filled with terror and distress, falling to the floor below before he was ripped away.
*CRRRUUUUUNNNCHCHCHCHCH*
All the pleading and crying ended with that horrible sound, one that would haunt them for years to come. Disturbed from the images their minds had conjured up and frozen from the fear that flooded their systems.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! YOU MOTHERFUCKER! YOU KILLED BAIU!"
Screams and laughter muddled in with the sick sounds they had heard moments ago. Soon after, another screeching roar shook the interior of the tunnel the boys were in.
"We gotta go, otherwise that thing might come for us next."
Moving was the best course of action, lest they suffer whatever fate befell the Baiu character.
"Then let's move forward. I think Hinata is being held down here. My insects are reacting more to the pheromones."
"Great, let's get out of here then."
The boys were about to head further down the dark hallway in pursuit of their teammate, until the spider's clicks echoed throughout the passageways.
They turned their gaze to see the creature poking its head through the entrance.
In its maw were the gorish remains of its victims. The hunters, now morsels in some predators' muzzle, unless one would consider the pool of viscous crimson that had pooled on the ground as part of the remains.
*SCRRRRREEEEEEEEE*
The hole collapsed, bringing the desert climate and the danger of the spider and its summoner. They didn't wait to become another meal, taking off as soon as the dust cleared.
"You think you can run away!? I told you, you're gonna get eaten piece by piece!"
It was one problem after another.
The heat might not have been a problem down here, but being hunted down in darkness wasn't what Shino and Kiba thought they were signing up for.
"You're a pair of squirmy little insects, aren't you!?"
The steady pounding of footsteps echoed into their ears. Their instincts were in control with signals firing off in their heads to duck and dodge when needed, just like a training session with the Hyuuga.
Running further and further, all the boys could do was rely on their senses and skills to get them to their goal, but what would they do once they found their teammate?
"We got to do something about this thing, Shino."
Kiba began rummaging through his pouch, pulling several explosive tags.
"You could end up trapping us all down here, or worse."
They continued as the clicking drew closer but luckily, torches began to appear in the section of the tunnels they were in.
"Turn right!"
Shouted Shino as his insects went into a frenzy. They were nearing their destination.
"What the hell is with all this noise?"
From one of the openings, a black robbed ninja with a white bull mask emerged.
"KEEP RUNNING! IT'S NO FUN IF YOU DON'T TRY TO LIVE! HAHAHAHAHAHA!"
"Kiba, off the ground!"
With haste, hand signs were weaved and knees bent.
The sight of them were familiar to Shino as this technique was next on the list he was tasked to learn by their team leader. The raising of the guard's foot was the signal to spring forth as the boys clung to the walls
"It seems I underestimated her teammates, but I don't plan on losing my hostage that easily. Earth Style: Bottomless Swamp."
A drop of his foot was the catalyst for the jutsu, changing the earth under them from solid sediment to sloshing sludge.
The spider struggled, frustratingly flailing in the mire, but it proved fruitless. It sank more and more into the mud.
"What the hell? What's this shit!?"
"You might as well surrender, weirdo. Same with you two. I'm sure if I capture enough of you I'll be relieved early."
"Idiot. . . You're underestimating the wrong guy."
Kidomaru's cheeks swelled and like a crossbow, golden bolts shot from his mouth toward his attempted captor.
"Earth Style: Mud Wall!"
The thud of the bolts embedding in the stone guard rippled through the cavern and rang in their ears.
"Maybe I am. . ."
Thread grabbed onto the ceiling of the cave, hoisting the beast out of the clutches of the merciless mud trap while its rider continued his assault.
"Jeez, Kid. I guess I'll have to take this-"
The guard abruptly stopped after those present heard a distinct thud.
"What happened? Why'd he stop?"
"I must say I'm quite grateful. If you hadn't come in making a ruckus, my guard would've been ogling me yet, but I suppose not all males can be the specimen my lord is."
It was new to Kidomaru, but to the rest, the feminine tone was all too familiar.
The air circulated through the caves, calm yet chaotic.
"Though, I am a bit disappointed. . . Why didn't you handle your pursuers before coming to my rescue."
"THAT THING FUCKING ATE PEOPLE! WHAT COULD WE DO AGAINST IT!?"
"Kiba, mind your manners. There's no need to lose your composure."
The mud wall crumbled as if under the oppressive weight of her words. She was now in full view.
Hat, broom, and all her other assets on display.
"Besides, the training I've put you through should have more than equipped you to deal with this threat. Or maybe, I've failed to prepare you properly?"
"No, Hinata. . . W-We just wanted to conserve as much energy as possible and hoped that these guys would take each other out! Right, Shino?"
"All of you, shut your damn mouths!"
The nervous looks from the boys were nothing new, but they had gone from terrified by his summon, to non-concerned. This girl was the source of their terror now.
"So crass. I suppose you handled the situation well enough. Let's deal with this vagabond and leave this drab place."
"Bitch, you watch your mouth. Just like the last guy you have no idea who you're dealing-"
The answer to a past question was answered, or atleast a clue was provided.
*BOOOOOM*
With a swift raise of her hand so too did the massive beast, right through the cave ceiling and back to the surface.
Shudders could be felt in a nearby cave.
"This year's bunch is lively! The exam started a couple of hours ago and they've been going crazy since!"
Rumbles rocked the torch-lit cave as a boar masked guard shared his opinion of the events taking place outside.
Along with the boar masked shinobi, four more guards in similar garb occupied the earth cavity, with their masks being the only identifying quality between them.
"Yet, we're stuck here guarding this kid."
"HAHAHAHA!"
A bear, chicken, turtle, and finally a cat sat in a circle cave with the opening opposite to them and located the center, was their mission.
These five were chosen to be the Uzumaki Monarch's captors, but they found this task far more taxing than initially thought.
"Seriously, is this guy off his meds or something. . ?"
"I could warn them. I doubt it'll do any good with these pathetic peons."
The blonde spent most of the time heckling, harping or horrifying the group with his behavior.
"Why don't we just shut him up? There are 5 of us and 1 of him."
"Remember. . . We were warned. Watch him at a distance."
"We brought him here and nothing happened, so I think it's safe to say he's not the threat the higher ups made him out to be."
Boar had enough of Naruto's antics and would have loved nothing more than to shut him up personally.
"I know, I know. They're ALL gonna die and they don't even know it. Pfft Hahaha!"
"Fuck did you say creep!?"
Especially when the genin would spout comments along those lines. Good thing cat and chicken were there to talk him down.
"My Haha says that there's a snake amongst you all and you don't even know it. . ."
"Ain't he an orphan?"
"Just a group of imposters. A bunch of chunins dressed up to be big bad ANBU."
Naruto looked at the bear directly while making his claim.
"Maybe he is a demon? How else would he have known that?"
The panicked voice of the chicken guard rang like a set of chimes.
The irony was far too much for both the boy and the vixen. In the confines of his mind, hearty snorts and chuckles could be heard while Naruto took care of the laughter in the cave, erupting into a fit yet again.
"Don't humor the little freak. . . Listen! Shut up and wait till your teammates get caught. Then we can-Ugh!"
" u. . ."
The sinister song left his lips filling the eated cave with an uninvited chill.
Before the other three, was one of their teammates skewering the other. A waterfall of vermillion ran down boar's mask, forming a river of blood that ran down to their feet.
"WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING, KENTO!?"
"H-He. . . He-He. . ."
"Kento? Oh, you must be referring to whoever this fodder was. I'm sorry to disappoint, but I'm not him."
The turtle weaved wicked words that filled the other three with much worse than worry.
Whoever this was, he was the biggest threat they had ever experienced. Scared? Terrified? No, none of these words did justice to the sensation stemming from the pit of their innards.
Desperation. They were desperate to escape, before they became part of the running red river.
"We have to get-"
Bear and chicken were splashed with blood, but whether it was the blood of their speared or freshly decapitated teammate they could not say.
"Rena! I'LL KILL-GLRGLRGLR!"
The fluid came like a flash flood before he could finish his treat.
While his instincts forced him to clutch the neck wound he had received with all his might, he met a similar end to his team.
They flopped before her, splashing blood in all directions. A red and ominous glow dominated the small cave, caused by the torch's light reflecting off the scattered ichor.
His footsteps were slow, but then again everything seemed to slow. Reality chopped and screwed before her with the deaths replaying in some instances, and them simply chatting in others. They came to a stop though, before a face suddenly appeared before hers and greeted her with a…
"Boo."
"AAAIIIIEEEEE!"
Chicken took off towards the exit, right past the savage responsible for butchering her fellow shinobi. Right past her helpless junior, restrained to a chair at the center of the room.
She ran so fast she felt she could see herself running, but it was the strangest feeling. She could see her body get further and further, yet it was as if she were falling. And why couldn't she keep her eyes open? Everything became so dark. She couldn't feel anything, but she was desperate to get away.
"The little hen was so desperate to run away, she kept going with her head cut off. Now that is truly humorous."
"If only they could sniff out the snake before it was too late."
"Yes, I am interested in how you were able to tell I wasn't one of them."
"That's easy. 1, It's hard to not to notice someone go from social to absolutely quiet after a bathroom break. 2, You stink. You've got death all over you and you don't even know how bad."
Sprawled out in various corners of their surroundings were the deceased. Youngsters cut down before their prime, yet the child was unfazed. Despite being restrained and at the mercy of this mysterious man, he was undeterred.
"You've got promise, dear Naruto. Would you like to join me?"
This earned a hearty outburst of laughter before the boy's composure abruptly returned.
"No."
"No? Why not?"
"You remind me of an old man from my village."
"Well, color me confused."
"The old man I'm referring to is dreadfully boring. Instead of wisdom, he spouts propaganda and paranoia. Causing grief for others while never having to face the consequences himself. You and that man have the same feel about you. Inspire the same sensation from me. One of pity. . ."
The assaliant's blade came down suddenly upon the young lord, but came to a hult against an unseen resistance.
"You didn't come to this village for me yet here you are, trying to kill me. Did I make that much of an impression with you earlier, grass-san? Or would you prefer turtle-chan?"
"You're a little monster, aren't you?"
"So many questions, Snake-oji, yet so little time. I'll give you one thing, I appreciate someone who'll get their own hands dirty for their aspiration. No matter how silly they may be."
The assailant was grateful to his mask for it hid his slightly startled expression. The source of which was the young man rising from his seat, massaging his wrist as the restraints fell to the ground. The man could hear sizzling and his nostrils were blasted with a coppey stench.
It even tickled his tongue.
"Don't be so surprised. We both know I could've gotten free the entire time. And please give me some space."
He quickly looked down to see molten cuffs, boiling the blood. The man was then thrown out of the cave, sailing down the entry tunnel before finding his footing again.
Naruto hadn't moved but something had picked up his attacker with his blade and tossed him with ease.
"I suppose I'll have to force the answers out of you."
Serpents covered the distance to Naruto from the man's sleeve. Their hissing abruptly ended as they were hacked to pieces.
"Some camouflage weapon it seems. One question answered, many more to go."
"Ah, you're referring to my Void Talon. Yes, it's one of my pride and joys."
The slayed snakes sprayed blood upon their demise, revealing the unique creation. It whipped around wildly, cleaning itself off and gaining the signature obsidian shade.
Its links resembled vertebrae, like that of a spine. At the end of its length, a skeletal draconic claw opened and clasp shut slowly. It moved as if it were the mythical beast itself, taking its breath before striking.
The room's temperature fell timid as its maw unfurled.
Naruto had created this form when experimenting on putting all the strength of his King's Guard into one chain.
All its length, all its speed, all its destructive power. He also found he was able to utilize In(Conceal), which was far too difficult to use on multiple chains at once, but a plausible feat with just one.
It was his Hatsu at it's deadliest. An ethereal enforcer, ready to snuff out all opposition to its lord.
The chilling chain hummed, now coiled around its master, flaunting its strength and beauty.
"Cute. You come up with names for your little tricks."
"I'm still young so I can't seem to help it."
Naruto answered, nonchalantly scratching the back of his head.
"Before we continue, let me correct you on something."
"Oh?"
From underneath the masked man's robe, a massive serpent slithered its way around his body as he neared the boy.
"I did come here for you. To kill you. That's the task I accepted."
The voice sounded more delicate, with hissing intertwined in his words.
"Fuck. . !"
As unfazed as the lad had remained after all that happened, this seemed to genuinely upset him.
"Is the situation you're in finally setting in for you?"
"Don't be ridiculous. It just means that Haha was right."
*BOOOOOM*
Dust rained down from above as the room rattled and both combatants grabbed onto their blades.
"Shall we begin, Snake-oji?"
"After you, boy."
The imposter fell to the ground so as to not be decapitated by an onyx sickle blade. He was forced to look up at the lad as he responded.
"I know. . . Royalty always goes first."
*BOOOOOOM*
Quakes reverberated through the cave from the outside, where Kidomaru and his super sized summon were being slammed against the exterior.
"BITCH, QUIT YOUR SHIT!"
"If you're going to continue being rude then I'll continue treating you in kind."
It made no sense.
One day, the Hinata they had come to know had just vanished.
The girl was a reflection in the water, not the bold sun in the sky. The fish in the cool shallow streams, never the hawk who hunts above. She was the wind-chimes in the breeze, never the storm to bring the wrathful winds of excitement. But, unbeknownst to everyone she had ever known, she was given a chance to change.
This was the result of her metamorphosis, of one who had suffered into ash, reborn in the flames of hot pain and commanded to sing out. Her confidence had been hard-won yet deep, anchored in the true self. That which grows within, purging that which was born of fear, clearing the way for love to grow, to take up every aspect of who she is. In this rawness, in this absolute vulnerability, Hinata became anew.
Now, they gazed at her!
She was the source of the light, instead of its offspring. The predator instead of the awaiting prey. The conductor of this brutal concerto, waving and crisscrossing her elegantly manicured hands to the creation she brought forth. The percussive bang of her unwilling mallet against the minerals and the orchestral accompaniment of their surroundings were her doing.
Regardless of how mad it all was, it was the reality all were faced with.
"I'd be happy to stop, if you're willing to behave."
Kidomaru found himself at Hinata's mercy. Flung around like a pinball bouncing all over the walls. He and the spider landed back to the ground, battered and bruised. Cracks and breaks ran wildly all over his skin.
"If you choose to continue, it won't be in your best interest."
"Trust me dude, she's not lying. . ."
"Her sincerity is actually frightening, so please be on your way and let us be on ours."
The trio approached with the boys behind their leader for obvious reasons, but they kept a respectable distance.
"Where the hell did Tayuya get off too?"
Kidomaru hoisted himself to the higher canyon wall with thread he seemingly placed while he was being bounced around.
"Whenever I need those assholes, they're never anywhere to be found. It's fine though. . . I'll take care of these guys and head back to Lord Orochimaru."
Chunks of his skin broke off as Kidomaru's cheeks puffed, revealing his true face.
The freakish face was now replaced with a rather mundane one. He was a dark skinned young man with black, shaggy hair tied into a ponytail and black steely eyes.
From his high perch, the summoner began rapidly expelling greyish globs.
"Persistent to say the least."
The projectiles rocketed towards the team, although it appeared to be for not.
With a raise of Hinata's hand, Kidomaru's attacks collided against an invisible bubble.
This didn't deter him as he continued to pelt the barrier with more attacks. The globs broke apart into wide and thick webs, caking the dome Hinata had erected.
"This is rather impressive. . . The threads are highly reinforced with his chakra, increasing its durability and effectiveness. If you boys had gone against him, you would've had your hands full."
Hinata could see the energy running through the threads with her Byakugan.
"Told ya. . ."
"That won't do us any good. If this keeps up, we'll be in no better position than flies caught in a web."
"*Sigh* Kiba, have you learned the jutsus I gave you?"
"Yea. You know, you still haven't told us where you got those scrolls from, or why we couldn't tell Kurenai sensei."
"That is of little importance right now. Just aim up and shoot off a fire jutsu."
"Got it. . . Fire Style: Dragon Flame Jutsu!"
The boy squashed his grievances and followed orders, utilizing one of the more efficient fire jutsu he was forced to learn.
The flames took to the threads in an instant, engulfing the barrier in a dazzling inferno.
"If you idiots are gonna go ahead and kill yourselves then feel free! That thread won't be burning through anytime soon. Kyodaigumo!"
The spider summon sprung back to life, firing off a thread and hoisting itself to its master.
"Guy's kinda got a point, Hinata. Now we're surrounded by fire!"
"Ye of little faith. . . I'm fully aware of the situation and I see no danger."
The buring web whipped around the air when the Wicked Witch began waving her hands.
The flames broke apart to form orbs big and small. The witch and her wisps danced a wondrous waltz as the burning bright bulbs began to meld. The lights glimmered in such a way that all were mesmerized, beast and men alike.
"What was once a weapon forged against me, is now the tool of my enemy's demise. Behold, my Fusion Lance!"
She proclaimed proudly, the amalgamation hovering between the spider summoner and his pet, and the team below.
Kidomaru began to once again spew a golden substance that covered the upper part of his body. In his hands, were 4 boomerang-like weapons, 2 in each hand, crafted out of the same stuff as his now hardened armor.
"I have no idea what that move is, but good luck hitting me with that. Meanwhile, I'll end you all here."
Mounting the beast once more, Kidomaru launched his attack though it would be for not.
"Perish. . ."
All that could be seen was a bright thin line originating from where the spear once was, then light that washed the opposition.
The attack had caused an explosion. One that seared the air and earth, further depleting the much needed moisture in the air. Dust and ash blacketed the area, but it was the scene up above that acted as the first testament to what their female companion was truly capable of.
The monstrosity, or what was left of it, mashed against the wall. Its legs remained on the canyon exterior, mangled and molten with a massive hole blown straight through the wall that it had repelled off the side of. It's summoner was nowhere to be seen.
"You can see straight through it…"
"Hinata, how strong are you?"
"You'll just have to wait and see…" Both the boys started with mixed emotions at the Hyuuga as she gave them a wink. Was she playing with them? Why? This display threw their minds into a tailspin, but Kiba and Shino were shocked back to reality by that all familiar sound.
*BOOM*
"Can't we get a break. . ."
The team looked up to see a freshly made opening in a higher canyon wall.
Soaring through the sky appeared to be two individuals, locked in aerial combat.
"There's no need to fear. That's isn't an enemy it's-"
"NARUTO!"
"It's a pleasure to see you, Lord Sasuke. And you, Haruno. I'm glad you were able to locate the king."
The two members of team 7 had landed near team 8. They made their way here following the massive explosion, thinking it might've been a Naruto play.
Only a short distance from the group, landed the young lord along with his deranged dance partner. The descent hadn't hindered their clash, as they raged on with violent vigor.
"Look boy, it seems some of your friends have gathered."
The man referring to the genin gawking as the battle unfolded. He noted that two of the genin look league more competent then the other three, but was torn away from his thoughts as he was forced to swiftly slithered out of the way of the kusarigama swipe.
"Please don't tell me you're about to sully what has been so far an impressive exchange, by involving outsiders."
"And if I do? I've had my eye on one in particular."
The skeletal claw shot from behind its master to tear apart his foe, yet it's assault was stopped by the turtle's blade. They pushed off, the claw retreating and disappearing and the man skidding a few feet back.
In Naruto's hand, his kusarigama began to emit a bright light though it quickly dissipated, revealing Fun'iki in his left hand.
"Unfortunately, I can't allow that."
The young lord's facial expression had made a complete 180. The light and playful nature of the boy was replaced with one befitting their scenery.
"Sasuke, please watch over the others."
"Understood, my lord. No harm shall come to them."
"Good. . . Now then, Air bubble: Pressure"
A crushing pressure fell around a small circumference with Naruto as the epicenter. It's might was so oppressive it slammed the man on his face. A circle indentation could be seen in the sand, and the air had a grainy distorted look around them.
"THAT WEAPON! THIS POWER! I MUST HAVE IT!"
The mask crumbled away to reveal the young man who had offered assistance dealing with Karin back at the field.
"Then come and try to take it from me, if you dare!"
They sprang forth, back to battle.
The clacks and clangs of the littered the ears of all present. Upon that searing sand, the two duelled in shining splendor. The sight was paradoxical with it being savagery, the two hacking away with reckless abandon, yet there was an elegance to it all. Every step was strategic, every counter calculated, every dodge deliberate.
"That's Naruto?"
Kiba watched in awe, unable to believe the sight before him.
"Yea. It's nuts. We thought that he was some failure, but it was all some act or game he wanted to play."
"I'm so tired. . ."
"This has indeed been an exhausting experience."
Even Shino found himself winded by all the endeavors they had faced thus far.
"You two should be watching instead of griping."
"I agree, to be able to watch his majesty in battle is a true honor."
They watched as Naruto gained a clear advantage over his opponent.
"Splendid, boy! You are truly splendid!"
"Let me show you something even more splendid. Cold Front."
The monarch marched towards his opponent, but when the cloaked teen tried to gain some distance he found himself immobile. Upon further inspection he found his legs frozen solid.
He was then gifted with a high-pitched whistle emanating from Naruto's hand.
"Wind Style: Rasengan!"
Unable to move, Naruto slammed his orb in his opponent's chest. A miniature sandstorm stirred up as the man was sent spiraling and careening into a canyon wall with a resounding crash.
"The snake is skilled as to be expected, but far more arrogant than even I could have estimated."
"You've met the other two, so it's safe to say that he must have some similarities to them. Obviously they think they know better than everyone else so let's entertain them."
The blade in Naruto's hand gave a faint glow.
"We should just kill him, my lord. He'll certainly become a problem in the future."
"Doing so right now might bring more issues. Hopefully we'll get another chance."
Naruto was taking out of his conversation when the ground quaked with a massive serpent rising from the ground behind the group. It loomed over the group menacingly, striking fear immediately and effectively in the heart's of a few of the genin.
*zzzZZZZ-PANG!*
Static discharged off the tip of the young lord's blade.
"Cry."
Lightning illuminated a brilliant pathway above, lifting their eyes skyward. It pierced like a blade, but struck like a mallet sending a pulse outwards.
One moment it was a threat, the next it was simply smoldering remains that slumped over on the ground.
"That was-"
"Shhhh. It's not over yet."
Hinata quickly interrupted the Inuzuka and as if on queue, the trembling started up once more. Several serpents sprang from the sand, surrounding all the genin.
"You've disappointed me twice so far. . . I wouldn't try for a third time."
"I'm sorry that I haven't met your expectations."
From the mouth of one of the snakes, the stranger emerged covered in slime and mucus.
"Actually you've met all of them. . . Like your old teammates. And your old teacher."
One burning was traded in for another.
The shift was instantaneous, from a bright burning day to the areathey inhabited being bombarded by a chilling yet howling squall. Sweat turned into crystalline beads and dry haggard breaths now become labored and razor sharp. Even the serpents were forced to slow their movements.
"I expect nothing from you. Any of you, because I hate you. . . I hate you all."
The smile on his face was colder than the weather he had brought.
A sick snake man, being surrounded by serpents and having a winter dropped upon them.
None of them stuck like that look on his face, the look of a truly crazed king.
Chapter Twelve End
Author's Notes: Hello everyone thanks for reading the 12th Chapter of Naruto: Paradox!
I once again apologize for how long this chapter took, but I appreciate all the support I got from fans of the story as always! Besides all the life stuff, I hit a hard bout of writer's block and felt that everything I was writing wasn't good enough, but I'm happy with how the chapter ended up and hopefully you'll all like it too.
If you enjoyed it, Please follow and or favorite the story. Please leave a review if you'd like and until next time, have a Paradoxical day!
For visuals:
Kidomaru and Tayuya's disguises are based on the appearances of the 2 ninja that were with Shiore(the ninja orochimaru killed).
I'm a huge fan of Kamen Rider and wanted to put a bit of that in my story and you'll see it a bit more here and there. Void Talon is from Kamen Rider Saber. If you would like to see what it looks like look up "Kamen Rider Saber Primitive Dragon first fight".
Hatsu List
Naruto Uzumaki- King's Guard: Seemingly sentient onyx chains that Naruto can control and will defend him automatically. They can meld and morph into different forms.
Sasuke Uchiha- Night's Shroud: Sasuke creates an indigo/violet mist he can manipulate and shift to form simple objects. Has a silencing effect.
Shizune- Authority's Assistant: By emitting her chakra through the vibrations in the atmosphere, Shizune forms a link with another person's brain and controls their actions.
Malice Rinha- Godmother: Taking the form of a large woman with puppet-like features, this ability allows malice to make "perfect" clones of those whose chakra she possesses.
Kagura-?
Bando- Arms Dealer: While dormant, it acts as Bando's left hand. It can transform into one of several forms to fit the needs of the situation.
Zabuza Momochi- Blood Demon:
Haku Momochi- Cold Killer:
Hinata Hyuga- Witch of the Realm:
Emperor's witch: The power of the ability depends on how close the user is to the "emperor".
Influence of understanding: The more Hinata "understands" something, such as its make-up and or its functions, the more she can influence it.
Koyuki Kazahana-?
Karin Uzumaki- All Seeing Eyes:
Tayuya Uzumaki-?
Nagare-?
Hokushin-?
Hōki-?
Hanare-?