Disclaimer: PandoraBoxx777 Does NOT in anyway own the series Naruto or any of its other name rights. Happy Reading!
The courtyard of the temple was beautiful. There were many trees and fountains and small gazebos thoughtfully placed around.
Team Eight couldn't help but gaze over the traditional, yet beautiful structures surrounding them. Statues of gods and monks faced each other with honor and reverence.
Kurenai walked through, bowing her head in respect as they passed someone, nudging her team to do the same. She was more than excited to be back at the temple where she had first discovered her genjutsu ability, and seeing the familiar faces as she led the way to the main temple strengthened the nostalgia. She was equally excited to relive the experience with her team as well. She glanced back and smiled at their awe-stricken faces.
As they approached the main stairs of the temple, the Sohei, Asuka, came to greet them. He was tall and wore his age proudly. Each wrinkle of his face and his hands spoke stories that the children would learn of someday. His eyes were gentle and his smile warm. He was a man of heart and strength.
"Greetings, Konoha nin." His voice was smooth and comforting, "It is nice to see you once more, Kurenai. I see you've brought guests this time." He looked over each of them, his knowing eyes twinkling at the energy of their auras. He approved. "Yes, I see much potential in your students. Do you happen to have the scroll with you?"
Kurenai nudged Shino to step forward, which he did hesitantly.
Shino had never met someone so powerful yet openly warm and kind. He felt a strange sense of peace in the temple grounds and he knew that it came from this man, this Sohei.
He bowed in respect, holding the scroll out to Asuka who took it. He smiled at Shino as he stood and patted his head, stunning the young boy. "Thank you very much, Shino." He said kindly, surprising the young ninja more.
He opened the scroll and quickly looked it over, frowning in thought and humming to himself somewhat as he read. After a few minutes he smiled and rolled it back up, "I see," He commented sagely, "It seems some training is in order.
"You will live among us for twenty-one days and depart, hopefully, knowledgeable and cleansed. As you live among us, you will also eat, train and meditate along our side. We rise very early, taking thirty minutes to awaken, clean our beds and dress. We then worship in our temple to the gods Tengu and Yamabushi to lead us in our journey of life and thereafter. After worship, we meditate one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset, to clear our minds, to bind our bodies to the world around us, free our spirits from carnal pleasure, and to cleanse our energies from negativity and bad influence.
"Meal times come after meditation and at noon. We eat a strictly vegan diet, as all life, even those to animals, are precious to us. We train all day, save for lunch, and prepare for bed for one hour after dinner; that includes bathing and grooming.
"We will teach you and we will guide you. As long as you keep an open mind and an open heart, you too, will reach peace and serenity as we have."
He took his time looking to each student and finally their teacher, who were all looking forward to the experience. He smiled then, looking equally forward to teaching them, "You all have had a long journey." He remarked, "Come, and join us for dinner. Your rooms have been prepared and we have saved your room at the tables."
"I think this place is nice." Kiba said as he climbed into bed, holding Akamaru close to his chest.
He felt surprisingly full from their meal, even if it was just plants. He wasn't too sure about going without meat for the mission, but after tasting the greens, sweet beans and tofu, he figured he would live. Vegan food was better than no food.
Shino nodded, partially to himself, as he pulled the covers over his body up to his chin. Shino liked being bundled up tightly in his covers, feeling a sense of security and warmth from the blankets.
He was still shy about taking off his jacket, regardless of having been shirtless to acquire his seal, as opposed to Kiba who was more than happy to shrug off his clothes from the waist up. He knew it was because he wasn't nearly as fit as he would like, as well as the insecurity of his insects occasionally crawling around at all times, even as he slept. He hoped it wouldn't bother Kiba to see so many bugs at once.
His eyes wandered back to Kiba who was absentmindedly petting Akamaru, trying to wind the puppy down for sleep. He noticed a faded bruise on his arm, one that looked like a hand. He thought back to the fight and realized that neither he nor Hinata had grabbed him by his arm during their fight.
Remembering Kurenai's brief lesson on the mystical palm, he recalled her saying that it was for external damage, to heal basic wounds like shallow cuts or a twisted ankle. If one were to heal a wound quickly enough, there would be no bruising or swelling. Using these pieces of evidence, Shino quickly deduced that the bruise was from something else.
He wanted to know. He felt the question on the tip of his tongue but couldn't find the courage to ask Kiba what had happened. He wasn't even sure what to say about it in the first place. What if it was nothing? He could be worried over nothing… right?
Eventually he had to turn away. He couldn't look at Kiba anymore, not with that haunted look on his face.
Kiba woke with a start, sweating and panting. Someone was in his room!
He grabbed Akamaru tightly and reached for the kunai under his pillow, ready to attack whoever decided to sneak in.
It was probably Hana again. She often came into his room in the middle of the night to set something loose inside or to steal his things. Once she even tried to smother Akamaru!
He whined when he couldn't find his knife and immediately covered his best friend with his body, who was now rousing from sleep.
When the noise stopped, he stilled, waiting for something to attack him. Nothing happened.
Oh right. He wasn't home.
With a sigh of shaken relief, he sat up, rubbing his face and wiping the sweat from his forehead. He looked around, eyes now adjusted to the dark, and noticed Shino tossing and turning in his sleep. His eyes were shut tightly and his face set into a frown. Was he having a nightmare?
Kiba wasn't sure what to do in this case. He had never had to comfort a human with a nightmare, but he was sure he could do it… maybe?
He slid out of bed and crept closer, taking care to be silent as he tiptoed. He hesitantly reached over and carefully laid his hand on Shino's head, stroking his hair as slowly and gently as possible. It was something that calmed him and Akamaru down, why not people too?
He smiled when he noticed that Shino finally started to relax. His breathing had evened out and he was no longer frowning. Kiba decided to take it a step further and ran his fingers through the messy tangled locks that was Shino's hair and noticed that he settled down for good.
After a few minutes, he pulled away and turned to go back to sleep; a hand stopped him from leaving.
Kiba looked down in surprise to see Shino reach for his glasses with his other hand before turning to look at him. They both seemed surprised at the sudden contact and Shino dropped Kiba's arm as if he were made of fire.
He looked around in a drowsy, yet hesitant state, before clearing his throat, "Why are you on my side of the room, Kiba?"
Kiba almost flinched at the demanding tone but complied nonetheless, "You were having a nightmare," He whispered, "I thought I could help. I didn't mean to wake you up. Sorry man." He quickly retreated to his bed before he was questioned further.
Shino stared after his teammate who had crawled into bed with his back turned to him. He hesitantly touched his hair and thought back to the strange interaction. The gentle and careful affectionate pet he had received was… nice. It was something unknown, yet he felt that it was also something familiar. Torune's young face briefly flashed through his mind and he suddenly felt empty again.
He looked over to Kiba once more and moved to get comfortable in his bed. As he shut his eyes he couldn't help a smile at the thought of Kiba's warm hand on his head.
The sun had yet to rise as gentle gongs rang throughout the courtyard. Team Eight were sluggish getting out of bed, frequently yawning and rubbing the sleep out of their eyes. Kurenai was bright eyed and excited, looking forward to the training.
As they walked through the temple grounds, Team Eight were still in wonder of the statues and beauty that seemed to last well into the night and morning. The largest building was in fact where the Monks would meet to worship and then meditate. It was old but very well taken care of, as the wood was still kempt and the paint fresh.
The inside was just as traditional and clean as the outside. There were mats equally separated on the floors and scrolls hung all over with proverbs and names of old monks past. Large statues of the gods Tengu and Yamabushi stood side by side, staring down and passing wise judgement upon those who found themselves under their stone gazes.
A small gong was rung and everyone quickly found themselves a mat to kneel on. Hinata found herself between Kiba and Shino with Kurenai to the left. The young teacher smiled at them and motioned for them to be quiet, gesturing to Asuka who gracefully knelt upon the mat in the center front.
Everyone waited, anticipating his signal to begin. He took a deep breath and bowed his head in reverence, thus beginning the hour long prayer.
Shino found it hard to participate; being a person of science and logic, he found it almost impractical to have to pray every morning. He wasn't sure what to pray about other than the guidance he craved and the power he sought. He prayed for the happiness and well being of those he cared for and that maybe one day, he will receive love.
After that, what else was there to pray for? Surely he could achieve those things himself? To receive love and assist those who need it. He wasn't sure what praying to gods and deities would accomplish. Regardless, he continued to pray, if only to pay respects to these generous people.
"You know," A soft whisper beside him made him startle. He looked to see Asuka kneeling beside him, his gaze steady and eyes knowing. "It's ok if you don't find belief in gods." He looked at the statues sagely, "Not many people find peace in the other worldly that is worship and prayer; not many even believe in the first place." He then placed a hand on Shino's head, "Nevertheless, we must find belief in something, and I believe in you just as much as Tengu and Yamabushi." He left then, back to his own mat to continue praying.
Shino sat there, stumped. Was this monk saying his disbelief in gods was ok? That he should believe in himself instead? Not even his own father, a man who also discouraged prayer and religion, had ever admitted belief in his own son. The warmth and gentleness of this Monk, this man, was overwhelming and went against everything that his parents had instilled in him. Shino then decided that maybe he should believe things in his own way.
He bowed his head and continued praying.
As they meditated, Kiba found himself squirming. He was itching to move and stretch his body and to see. He couldn't stand not being able to look around and see what was going on around him, it was so unnerving. What if someone tried to attack him? What if they tried to attack Akamaru?
He suddenly felt a hot breath down his neck and jumped up, getting ready to run and defend himself. Asuka took a step back, staring at Kiba as he calmed down. He didn't look the least bit troubled or surprised at Kiba's sudden movement, just a bit concerned and even curious.
Kiba realized what he had done and sat down with a quiet apology and closed his eyes again, embarrassed that he had been disruptive.
"Meditation," Asuka said, "Is to bring peace to your mind, tranquility to your heart and stability to your soul. We meditate not only to connect with the world around us, but for the sake of ourselves.
"Let the thoughts flow. Let your emotions rise. Take a deep breath and then let them go. You never truly find peace, unless you allow it to find you in return."
Kiba looked up into Asuka's old eyes, eyes that have seen so much in the world and still continued to watch, even inside this old temple.
Kiba knew then, what Asuka was saying. He needed to allow himself to release the pent up aggression and feelings and calm himself so that he may be able to live more peacefully. If Kiba lived in fear, he would always be fearful.
Having realized this, He nodded and sat back in lotus position, Akamaru laying in his lap. He took a deep breath and let go.
Hinata felt herself hesitate when the female monk beckoned her to spar. She knew that the all day training was taken seriously and she didn't want to disappoint anyone with her lack of skill or prowess. She felt herself spiral into a new level of self loathing and felt no need to try if she was doomed to fail.
She bowed to her opponent and attempted a hit, although it was weak and lacked the power she normally had. Her opponent frowned but continued to lightly spar, though not merciful with her blows. Hinata was defeated in no time and she shrugged off the dirt as she stood back up for another pointless round.
"Do you know the definition of insanity, young one?" Asuka was sitting on the balcony steps with a cup of hot tea in his hands. Hinata dropped her stance to answer him, "Insanity is the state of being seriously mentally ill or to be extremely foolish."
Asuka nodded and sipped his tea quietly. Hinata waited, knowing he had more to say.
"There has been a saying that the definition of insanity is repeating the same action over and over and expecting a different outcome. What you're doing may not be insanity, but it is insane." Hinata deflated at his words, "The beauty of life is never knowing what to expect, to live in a constant state of change. There will rarely be a time where you repeat yourself so often that you know what to expect, and so you must change to accommodate the rest.
"In battle, you will never repeat yourself the same exact way, not ever. You must change because your opponent changed. You must win or allow yourself to die. Do not think that you can truly anticipate the future, for there will always be a change and it has to start with yourself."
As he finished his spare wisdom, he stood and walked away, wind billowing his robes ominously.
Hinata stared after him, thinking. If she continues to think about her failures and allow it to continue, she will always be a failure. She could see the future, yes, but that didn't mean she couldn't change it either. With that in mind, Hinata looked to her opponent and slid into her battle stance. The female monk smiled and Hinata found herself doing the same.
The first day was tough but Team Eight found themselves feeling a little more relaxed as well as confident with themselves.
Soon another day passed and then another. They began to conquer tree walking, and then water walking and Kurenai even taught the basics of genjutsu and gave them a few to practice. Double Illusion, Demonic Illusion: Tree Binding Death, Demonic Mist, to name a few. All of them worked tirelessly to perform each flawlessly.
After 10 days of training, Asuka finally decided to aid them in honing their more powerful abilities. He started with Kiba.
"What you want to do is try to find a balance within yourself and understand that you are more than just a man or a wolf, you are something deeper." Yoshiro Natsu was born within the Inuzuka bloodline many years ago, around the time that Kiba's father met his mother, but was banished for speaking against the unfair hierarchy between the males and the females.
He was similar, although not the same to the Inuzuka heir. Whereas Kiba was more powerful, more beastly; Natsu himself was able to shift into an actual wolf, but nothing more than that.
Kiba was listening with rapt attention, "You don't want to allow your emotions to control you. If you become angry, you become a danger to others and yourself. Inuzuka's are wild, but not feral.
"In time, it will become easier to control yourself, to control your wolf, but it is important now that you do it as you are young." He had a teasing twinkle in his eyes, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks."
Kiba smiled and took a deep breath, allowing himself a bit of release. He felt his nails claw and his teeth sharpen.
"Good job." Natsu praised, "Now, slowly allow more, but keep calm."
Kiba did as he was told. It was slow and a bit uncomfortable but he was progressing. His eyes turned a dark red and his hair spiked wildly, he leaned forward unintentionally due to the sudden shift of balance in his spine. He surely was more muscular and could feel his jacket straining against his new muscles.
"Any further and your clothes may rip," Natsu laughed, "Your wolf form may be bigger than I had anticipated, even for as young as you are. I want you to shift back, but go slow so you don't hurt yourself."
Kiba found that shifting back was harder than the first shift. Having to force a return to a certain state put pressure on his body and he felt himself grow increasingly uncomfortable which slowed the process even more.
"Don't think about the pain, pressure or how difficult it is," Natsu advised, "Just feel. Remember how your body felt before and keep changing until it feels that way again."
Eventually, Kiba was able to switch back. Natsu had him practice a few times, if only to familiarize him with the process. He had a lot of hope for him, and found the hidden power within his bloodline.
"Let's take a run together," Natsu said, "We'll stretch our legs and maybe even hunt something."
Kiba hesitated, "I thought you were on a vegan diet?" He asked quietly. He was a bit confused already with having a family member he knew nothing about, and now he was being told to hunt regardless of the diet requirement.
"I, as Natsu the Human, choose to eat a vegan diet, but every so often, my wolf, my spirit, will demand I eat meat. I have to hunt and eat as a wild animal to stay sane and to keep myself strong. It will be the same for you. Your wolf is more powerful than mine, so you will need to hunt and eat more often.
"You give a poor man a fish and you feed him for a day. If you teach him to fish and you give him an occupation that will feed him for a lifetime. I will teach you to hunt so that you may feed yourself. Come now, before the sun sets."
Kiba followed Natsu into the woods behind the temple and watched as he fully shifted into an old grey wolf with bright blue eyes. He was small, but certainly larger than a normal wolf. Kiba followed suit, turning into a white wolf with bright red eyes. Despite his young age, he was nearly twice the size of Natsu and far more powerful.
Natsu gestured with his muzzle for Kiba to follow, which he did with no uncertainty or doubt.
They ran. Kiba's fur flew with the wind and his lungs expanded with the cool clean air. All of his senses were on overdrive and suddenly, it was almost too surreal.
He had never felt more alive.
Shino watched the old woman move forward, her cane kicking up dust and her eyes warm. She was hunched, but even if she was able to stand straight, Shino knew she would still only reach his shoulder. He wondered briefly what stories she had behind those scars on her hands.
"Hello, young Aburame," She greeted, nodding her head, "I hear you have something special?"
Shino bowed low to show his respect, "Yes ma'am." He replied.
The old woman laughed and shook her head, "I'm not that old yet," She teased, "Call me Rui."
Shino nodded, waiting for her to begin their lesson.
"You and I have a lot in common, Shino," She began, "We come from a clan where we make many sacrifices; even our bodies are not our own. Unfortunately, I was attacked as a young shinobi and my insects died within me. After many procedures, I was empty of them and no other hive could survive inside of me. I was very sad indeed, until I was brought here. Now I live out my days teaching and so, you will be my first pupil."
"I am honored, Rui." Shino bowed once more. He was surprised to have never heard of Rui before. Here was a family member who had gone through something so terrible and yet her name was never uttered within his clan's walls. He wondered why that was?
Rui stood a bit straighter and nodded, "The first thing is to activate your seal and release the insect inside of you." She suddenly sprouted legs similar to that of a praying mantis, as well as two large claw-looking forearms. She lifted herself into the air and stood at an intimidating height. Shino was in awe.
"Now you try." She encouraged.
Shino took a deep breath and released the seal on his back, the spider's legs stretching and twitching. It had been a while since he was able to fully utilize his ability and it felt like such a relief to finally free himself.
"A spider, eh?" Rui grinned, "I wonder what that means. It has been a very long time since a spider was born to the Aburame. Now, lift yourself as I have."
Shino hesitated before lifting himself slowly. The legs shook, not used to the weight of his body and he slipped a few times.
"Slowly now," Rui guided, "Feel the weight of your body and evenly distribute it. You've done it before on two legs, four should prove to be easier."
After a few errors, Shino was finally able to lift and set himself down with no problem at all. Rui praised him with each accomplishment and smiled brightly as Shino towered over her with his longer legs.
"You're making excellent progress!" Rui exclaimed, "Now that we mastered standing, we must work on walking. Come, take a stroll with me."
She easily turned and walked slowly, waiting for Shino to catch up. Slowly, he extended his leg and then another and then another. Using his senses and his memory of watching spiders, he began to set a rhythm and walked.
He began to walk faster, catching up with Rui who beamed proudly at his progress. He walked a bit faster, fully stretching his legs. The walk then became a run and he sped forward, feeling so alive and free and happy.
He jumped as high as he could, feeling the air beneath him and overlooking the temple tops into the forest surrounding them. It was too soon that he landed, although sloppily; he stumbled back and fell on his rear, laughing for the second time since his battle with Kiba and Hinata.
Rui walked up, chuckling along, "Rise, my spiderling," She commanded, "Let's walk about and show everyone your beauty."
Shino hastily stood and followed behind her, feeling lighter than ever.
Hinata gasped at the ancient-looking man wearing bandages around his eyes, gracefully walking towards her without a cane or a seeing eye to guide him. A familiar green seal was shining proudly on his forehead.
Confidently, he strode forward, standing before Hinata and bowing respectfully, "Lady Hinata," He greeted, "My name is Sora. I was once of the Hyuga clan many years before even your father was born, serving as a branch member. I was banished, but not before my eyes were damaged beyond sight.
I, too, had advanced my doujutsu, though not as greatly as yours. I could only see briefly into the future, only hours or minutes before any event, but even then, I was able to mostly control what little power I had.
I managed to instill fear within the elders, who thought I would overrule their authority. Now I am blind, and I live among these monks as a worshiper and as a man. I understand you and I are very alike?"
Hinata almost nodded before she realized he wouldn't see it, "Yes," She spoke, "My Byakugan can see far more than normal."
Hinata wasn't the very least surprised that she had never heard of him before. If the elders were afraid of this branch member becoming too powerful, their hold over the rest would surely loosen and then the so-called-balance between the two houses would shift, leaving them with less power. It was only common sense that they would destroy him before he had a chance to grow; that's all they were good at anyways.
Sora nodded and sat in lotus position, prompting Hinata to do the same. She wondered, as she sat, what he had planned for her to do.
"Close your eyes and relax." He commanded, "You can control this if you will it, but your soul must be at peace and your mind must be calm. Meditation is helpful, as seeing beyond this time and into another is a spiritual journey before it becomes a physical one. Soon, once we've mastered that, we can talk about alternate futures and dimensions."
That last one piqued Hinata's interest, but she did as she was told and willed herself to be calm. As she meditated she felt Sora's warm chakra mingle with her own, further soothing and aiding her in her first attempt. Slowly, her body melted away, her surroundings were clear and she could feel the earth as it moved. It was scary, but tranquil, almost somber.
"Activate your bloodline and try to look past the world. Tell me what you see." Sora's voice was far away, quietly echoing into her head.
Hinata activated her Byakugan and attempted to look far away, past everything in her area. It was difficult, as she had only done so a few times on command, but it was definitely easier than before, especially now that she was so calm.
Hinata took a breath and searched, watching as the world moved forward. The sun slowly shifted from its position further west and people walked around them, slowly as to not disturb them.
"Everything looks the same." She sighed, "I'm really trying."
Sora was pleased, "That's all I ask. It will take time but soon you will see what I have and even more beyond. Take a moment; concentrate."
Hinata furrowed her brow and focused as best as she could, pushing herself more. She willed for time to speed in her mind's eye so that it may do so for her Byakugan. If only she could just focus. If only she pushed herself just a bit more...
Suddenly, it was as if a paper bomb exploded. The sun rushed to hide behind the trees with the moon chasing it in a never ending game of tag. Monks rushed by in blurs, going about their day as if nothing were out of the ordinary. Hinata watched as the weather changed and trees aged appropriately with the seasons. Everything sped by so fast and yet so slow.
Hinata began to cry as she gawked in amazement. It was beautiful.
She jumped with a start as she opened her eyes to Sora's all knowing and patient smile. "How was it?" He asked almost teasingly.
Hinata cried some more, laughing and wiping her face with her sleeve, "Beautiful." She sighed, "Can we try again?"
Sora's laugh was deep and hearty, so unlike a Hyuga; but then again, he was free, and in this moment, they both were. "Of course, Lady Hinata," He obliged, listening as she straightened herself in her seat, "Once more, from the beginning."
Hinata closed her eyes, if only to see the beauty of her gift again.
Dinner that night was merrier than it had been the whole trip. Even Shino was talking and laughing and telling his own fair share of stories.
Kurenai almost faltered at the thought of them having to go back home where all of them were so miserable. She knew that this feeling of relaxed joy and comfort could only last so long.
If she was going to be successful with her mission, with turning her team around and helping them, she was going to have to push them; she was going to have to break them. It was as if she were rebreaking a bone so that it may form correctly. Under her watch and careful guidance, she will have them regrow. They will be stronger, wiser, and able to handle everything life threw at them. She owed it to them.
She looked as Hinata laughed at Shino's joke, unconsciously leaning against Kiba for stability who was gasping for breath. Shino had a large smile on his face, visible for all to see as he had unbuttoned the top of his coat. They were so happy.
Kurenai felt her heart twist at the joyful scene before her and she couldn't help the sting behind her eyes and the shaking smile breaking through. For the first time since she took them as her students, everything felt right. She wanted nothing more than for the moment to last forever.
Kiba was finally in control of his anger, thanks to the many hours of meditation and practice. He put a lot of thought into his words and was often philosophical in strange, hidden ways that his teammates somehow understood. He was always encouraging his team when they were tired or failing. He was their friend and greatest inspiration to work harder.
Shino was more relaxed, more open than before and found his balance in his team. He definitely was kinder and more careful with his way of speaking. He and Kiba bonded over sarcastic and snarky teasing with each other, saying things that sounded awful to anyone outside of their group but was intended with affection and friendship. He was definitely the leader, seeing as how his team looked to him for plans.
Hinata was definitely more outspoken and forceful but somehow retained her innocent and gentle nature. Kurenai noticed that Kiba and Shino naturally doted on her and listened as she spoke. Whether it was because she was a girl or because of her unconditional devotion and kindness towards them, she noticed that Hinata would always be the one to calm either boy down or to uplift them when they failed. She protected them, mentally and emotionally.
Kurenai was obviously the real leader, but she somehow made the status of "The Mother" within her group. She noticed when Kiba would look at her from the corner of his eye whenever he was unsure, how Shino would unconsciously seek her out for counsel and company, or how Hinata would seek her approval and hugged her tightly at any moment's notice. They looked up to her for guidance, acceptance and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of love.
And in many years, after she retired and watched her former team chatting over drinks, leaning against each other unreserved and laughing together, she would look back to this scene and confirm that she did, indeed and unknowingly, love her team.
That's why she was going to save them.
But that part of the story comes later; for now, she allowed herself to forget what was to come, she only focused on the present. She casually leaned onto the table as Hinata started her own story and watched as her students came alive for the first time.
Training was going splendid, Team Eight was sad that it was coming to an end. They were hoping to come back to visit one day when they had the chance. Asuka smiled and told them he would love to have them return one day, he would even throw a feast in their honor.
They were to leave in three days time.
Kurenai had asked for a secluded room in which she could privately train her students without interruption. Asuka, still smiling, though noticeably pensive, agreed and led the four to the back of the temple grounds.
The buildings were noticeably older but still well kept. The designs engraved within the walls were well ancient and carefully handcrafted. The accents were marvelous and pleasing to the eye. A large temple, though smaller than the main temple, sat in the back, accompanied by large willow trees and a small koi pond. The students of Team Eight looked to each other with hesitation as they walked up the steps to the door.
With a grand sweep Asuka opened the door to reveal a large room with thick columns and a spiral engraving on the floor. It was dark, lit by torches and whatever sun that managed to shine through cracks in the walls or ceilings.
"This room is soundproof," Asuka suddenly said, "We have had many training sessions, council meetings, and even ceremonies here. No one from the outside can listen in, and it is accessible from only the inside once you begin. Is this more than enough for your training?"
Kurenai nodded grimly and thanked the monk as he left the room with nothing more to say. Team Eight watched and looked at each other again, wondering what kind of training they would have to endure to receive such a response.
Kurenai sat on the spiral in lotus and gestured for her students to do the same, which they did so quickly. "As you know," She began, "My specialty is genjutsu. I have had many years of training in this specific area to know nearly everything about it. I have even trained with a Yamanaka, who allowed me the use of lesser, more well known jutsus to add to my arsenal. That means, I can still cast a genjutsu on you, Shino and Hinata, but nothing too strong, only enough to catch you and hold you for a small time.
"Today, we will go through mental training, I will cast a genjutsu that will help you deal with the core fundamental shinobi duty, which will be taking a life." She watched as they shifted nervously but continued, "I realize that none of you have had the opportunity to deal with something that serious. Even in the academy, they explain the act of killing; they even go as far to tell you how to do it, but learning it from words is different than learning from experience. I will help you experience that now.
"Later on, we will deal with harder things; the death of fellow shinobi, rape, torture, and even war, but for now, I need you to learn how to do this and to be able to live with it. If you can pass this, I promise, it will get easier over time."
She took a moment to look at each of them. All of them, even Shino, looked nervous for such a task, but she had no doubt in them. They would have to pass if they wanted to be stronger.
"Let us begin." She announced. She performed the proper hand signs and focused hard to divide her attention to three different minds. Shino was a bit harder, as he had Kikaichu beetles keeping him impervious to genjutsu. She added more chakra and finally felt a breakthrough in entering their delusions. With a focused breath, she dived in and began her training.
Team Eight waved goodbye from the temple, promising to visit again. The monks all cheerfully waved back before casting their protection jutsu that hid them from plain sight.
"Did you all enjoy yourselves?" Kurenai asked as she led the team through the dense forest.
Kiba started to go on about how amazing everything was, Akamaru barking on his head, while Shino and Hinata smiled happily from the back, showing their appreciation.
Kurenai smiled and nodded, turning around again to face the front.
They traveled pretty far before taking their first break. Kiba kept watch this time as his teammates sat against the tree and ate their packed foods. He casually paced around, looking in all directions and sniffing for danger. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Everything was peaceful and quiet save for the small chatter of his team in the background. Kiba smiled to himself, reaching up to scratch Akamaru's ear who yipped happily.
Then, suddenly, it happened. Something was wrong, he could feel it. There was an overwhelming sense of dread hanging in the air, followed by killer intent.
Kurenai stood up and looked around, silencing the small talk immediately.
All too soon, they were surrounded by rogue ninja and bandits. All of these large, threatening people carried sharp weapons and moved closer.
"Give us all of your possessions or we'll kill you!" The leader of the group was a man with a large shuriken on his back and a patch on his right eye.
Kurenai looked around slowly, surveying the area for a means of escape. She realized they had none, and they would need to fight. She hoped her team was ready.
Time had apparently run out, because all at once, three ninja ran to attack her, brandishing their weapons and yelling their war cries. Kurenai grabbed her own kunai and clashed with them, sparks flying and blades singing as they met.
Soon, it was a battle to win and the rest of the bandits went in to attack. While Hinata and Shino had two other lackeys to fight, Kiba had the leader himself, who wore a smug grin on his face. "You're just a little kid," He mocked, "Defeating you will be no problem." He shrugged off his shuriken and threw it, aiming for Kiba's neck.
Kiba ducked and ran at the leader, performing hand signs, "Ninja Art of Beast Mimicry: All Four Jutsu!" He got down on his hands and feet, chakra leaking from his body. He was ready.
Still running, he swiped his hand aiming for the man's face who took a step back and kicked. Unfortunately, he caught Kiba in the gut and sent him flying back.
He ran after him, picking up the stray shuriken and throwing it once more, "You'll have to do better than that, kid!" He taunted.
Kiba ducked under the shuriken, bearly skimming the blade and aimed a kick, which, thankfully, landed. The man, however, didn't move very far, not even grunting in pain from the powerful attack.
He threw a punch which landed on Kiba's left cheek and kicked once more, sending him to the ground. The man grabbed Kiba by the throat and held him in the air, pinning him to a tree nearby. "Once I finish you off," He cackled, "I'm going to kill your team, all of them."
Akamaru suddenly jumped into the air and sunk his teeth into the man's arm, growling and pulling as hard as he could. The man yelled in surprise and pried the young pup from his arm before throwing him as hard as he could into another tree. Akamaru yelped in pain, causing Kiba's heart to twist painfully in his chest.
"Akamaru!" He cried.
The man laughed at the heartbreaking scene and began to choke Kiba once more, "What a filthy little animal," He hissed, "I hope for your sake he isn't alive, because I'll be sure to skin him and make a new hat."
Kiba felt rage bloom in his chest at the man's words. Akamaru was all that Kiba had from his father. No way was he going to let him hurt his best friend.
"Kiba!" Kurenai yelled, beaten and bloody. Hinata wasn't moving and Shino was on his knees, nose gushing blood. Kiba couldn't stand the sight; he had to do something but he couldn't while this man was still holding onto him.
It was as if his mind went into overdrive, he knew what he had to do. With whatever power he had left in his body, he grew his claws and aimed. Kurenai nearly smirked, seeing his plan, "Kiba," She called out once more, "Do it now!"
Team Eight waved goodbye from the temple, promising to visit again. The monks all cheerfully waved back before casting their protection jutsu that hid them from plain sight. "Did you all enjoy yourselves?" Kurenai asked as she led the team through the dense forest.
Kiba started to go on about how amazing everything was, Akamaru barking on his head, while Shino and Hinata smiled happily from the back, showing their appreciation.
Kurenai smiled and nodded, turning around again to face the front.
They traveled pretty far before taking their first break. Hinata kept watch this time as her teammates sat against the tree and ate their packed foods. She casually swayed in her spot, looking in all directions for any sign of danger. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Everything was peaceful and quiet save for the small chatter of her team in the background. Hinata smiled, allowing herself to hum cheerfully as she waited.
Then, suddenly, it happened. Something was wrong, she could feel it. There was an overwhelming sense of dread hanging in the air, followed by killer intent.
Kurenai stood up and looked around, silencing the small talk immediately.
All too soon, they were surrounded by rogue ninja and bandits. All of these large, threatening people carried sharp weapons and moved closer.
"Give us all of your possessions or we'll kill you!" The leader of the group was a man with a large shuriken on his back and a patch on his right eye.
Kurenai looked around slowly, surveying the area for a means of escape. She realized they had none, and they would need to fight. She hoped her team was ready.
Time had apparently run out, because all at once, three ninja ran to attack her, brandishing their weapons and yelling their war cries. Kurenai grabbed her own kunai and clashed with them, sparks flying and blades singing as they met.
Soon, it was a battle to win and the rest of the bandits went in to attack. While Kiba and Shino had two other lackeys to fight, Hinata had the leader himself, who wore a smug grin on his face. "You're just a little girl," He mocked, "Defeating you will be no problem." He shrugged off his shuriken and threw it, aiming for Hinata's neck.
Hinata ducked and ran at the leader, performing hand signs, "Byakugan! Gentle Fist!" She slid into proper form, chakra gathering to her hands. She was ready.
Still running, she thrust her hand out, aiming for the man's solar plexus who had taken a step back and kicked. Unfortunately, he caught Hinata in the gut and sent her flying back.
He ran after her, picking up the stray shuriken and throwing it once more, "You'll have to do better than that, little girl!" He taunted.
Hinata flipped over the shuriken, bearly skimming the blade and aimed a kick, which, thankfully, landed. The man, however, didn't move very far, not even grunting in pain from the powerful attack
He threw a punch which landed on Hinata's left cheek and kicked once more, sending her to the ground. The man grabbed Hinata by the throat and held her in the air, pinning her to a tree nearby. "Once I finish you off," He cackled, "I'm going to kill your team, all of them."
Hinata tried to fight back once more, kicking her chakra enhanced lags as hard as she could and jabbing her fingers into his arms; she even went as far as to scratch and attempted to bite him, but it was futile. She had no way out.
"Let go of me!" She cried. The man laughed at the pathetic scene and began to choke Hinata harder, "What a pathetic little Hyuga," He hissed, "I hope for your sake that you die rather quickly, I hear getting your eyes pulled out of your head really hurts. Maybe I'll even sell them to the cloud ninja."
Hinata felt rage bloom in her chest at the man's words. It was because of the Cloud that her dear uncle was dead, and now this man was going to sell her eyes to them and make his sacrifice worthless?
"Hinata!" Kurenai yelled, beaten and bloody. Shino wasn't moving and Kiba was on his knees, nose gushing blood. Hinata's heart broke at the sight; she had to do something but she couldn't while this man was still holding onto her.
It was as if a devil was whispering into her ear, she knew what she had to do. With whatever power she had left in his body, she activated her Byakugan and aimed. Kurenai nearly smirked, seeing her plan, "Hinata," She called out once more, "Do it now!"
Team Eight waved goodbye from the temple, promising to visit again. The monks all cheerfully waved back before casting their protection jutsu that hid them from plain sight. "Did you all enjoy yourselves?" Kurenai asked as she led the team through the dense forest.
Kiba started to go on about how amazing everything was, Akamaru barking on his head, while Shino and Hinata smiled happily from the back, showing their appreciation.
Kurenai smiled and nodded, turning around again to face the front.
They traveled pretty far before taking their first break. Shino kept watch this time as his teammates sat against the tree and ate their packed foods. He casually leaned against a tree, looking in all directions and sending his bugs to search for danger. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Everything was peaceful and quiet save for the small chatter of his team in the background. Shino almost smiled to himself and began to count the seconds as they passed.
Then, suddenly, it happened. Something was wrong, he could feel it. There was an overwhelming sense of dread hanging in the air, followed by killer intent.
Kurenai stood up and looked around, silencing the small talk immediately.
All too soon, they were surrounded by rogue ninja and bandits. All of these large, threatening people carried sharp weapons and moved closer.
"Give us all of your possessions or we'll kill you!" The leader of the group was a man with a large shuriken on his back and a patch on his right eye.
Kurenai looked around slowly, surveying the area for a means of escape. She realized they had none, and they would need to fight. She hoped her team was ready.
Time had apparently run out, because all at once, three ninja ran to attack her, brandishing their weapons and yelling their war cries. Kurenai grabbed her own kunai and clashed with them, sparks flying and blades singing as they met.
Soon, it was a battle to win and the rest of the bandits went in to attack. While Hinata and Kiba had two other lackeys to fight, Shino had the leader himself, who wore a smug grin on his face. "You're just a little kid," He mocked, "Defeating you will be no problem." He shrugged off his shuriken and threw it, aiming for Shino's neck.
Shino ducked and ran at the leader, spreading his arms and summoning his kikaichu, "Here I go." He already started to work out a plan, insects leaking from his body. He was ready.
Still running, he threw a strong right hook, aiming for the man's face, who took a step back and kicked. Unfortunately, he caught Shino in the gut and sent him flying back.
He ran after him, picking up the stray shuriken and throwing it once more, "You'll have to do better than that, kid!" he taunted.
Shino stepped to his left and dodged the shuriken, bearly skimming the blade before aiming a kick, which, thankfully, landed. The man, however, didn't move very far, not even grunting in pain from the powerful kick.
He threw a punch which landed on Shino's left cheek and kicked once more, sending him to the ground. The man grabbed Shino by the throat and held him in the air, pinning him to a tree nearby. "Once I finish you off," He cackled, "I'm going to kill your team, all of them."
Shino called out his bugs to attack. They bit the man all over but were unable to feed off of his chakra. Shino then tried to kick and punch as hard as he could, using his own chakra to enhance the force of every blow. He said nothing, but the effort was clear with every grunt he made.
The man laughed at the miserable scene and began to choke Shino harder, "What a sad, degenerate cockroach," He hissed, "I hope for your sake you don't live very long, because I'll be sure to cut you open and burn all those disgusting bugs inside of you."
Shino felt rage bloom in his chest at the man's words. He was tired of being called a cockroach as if he wasn't human. This man was going to pay.
"Shino!" Kurenai yelled, beaten and bloody. Hinata wasn't moving and Kiba was on his knees, nose gushing blood. Shino felt something twist inside of him at the sight, he had to do something but he couldn't while this man was still holding onto him.
It was as if his mind suddenly blanked with one thing being clear; he knew what he had to do. With whatever power he had left in his body, he summoned bugs into his hands and aimed. Kurenai nearly smirked, seeing his plan, "Shino," She called out once more, "Do it now!"
All at once, each genin through their last bit of power at this bandit who threatened not only their lives, but the lives of their comrades as well. It was as if all of their morals or higher thoughts suddenly vanished with basic survival and instinct ruling over with one last attempt at freedom and life; and that was to kill this man.
Kiba slashed his throat with sharpened claws. His throat opened and spewed blood from his artery, coating Kiba in the red mess.
Hinata struck his heart and lungs with precise chakra control. He began to choke on his blood, eventually coughing a large amount onto Hinata.
Shino punched his ear, infesting his brain with bugs. As they began to eat away, they grew bigger with all the chakra inside and his head exploded, sending blood everywhere.
Of course, they all screamed.
Kurenai rushed over to them and held each and every one of her genin in her arms, ignoring the blood. "You did what you had to do." She told them, "It was either you or him. If you choose to let yourself die, you have let your team die. We're alive because of you." She held them a little tighter, "One day, you'll see, it won't be as hard as this was. It's going to get easier and you're going to look back on this and wonder why it was like this in the beginning. You saved lives, including your own. That's what matters."
It clicked then, for all three of them, that this was what they were trained to do. They were made to be ninja, to be killers. They were to make these kinds of decisions at any moment if that meant accomplishing a mission, saving a life or surviving. This was what it meant to be a shinobi.
All too soon, they were back at the temple, dazed and confused. What happened to the forest? It felt so real.
Kurenai smiled as the look of relief spread across their faces. She was glad that they were able to handle it so.. Maturely. It was a proud moment but also worrisome. If death was something they became so easily desensitized to, would that mean they had all seen or experienced it somehow?
Her face fell again as she realized that all of this training and traveling was coming to an end. She had to do the one thing that would prepare them for the trip back home as well as many more days in the village until their freedom.
Kurenai cleared her throat, catching their attention. Once they noticed the serious aura, their bodies tensed up for whatever they were imagining was going to happen next.
"I'm sure you've all realized by now that this was no simple delivery mission." Her students nodded, prompting her to continue, "We came here to strengthen your abilities and help you gain a sense of control over your power, as well as yourself. I've come to notice, however, that something is bothering each and every one of you.
"Kiba, you're our most rambunctious of the group, but somehow, I don't think you get that many bruises from being a little too wild.
"Shino, I know that you are our most serious and no nonsense type, but you are clueless to healthy relationships and interactions.
"And Hinata, I know that whenever you are having a... really bad day, you show up smelling like roses, ginger and healing ointment.
"All of you are hiding something, something you are ashamed of and scared to talk about, but I know what that is. I know your secrets and as your teacher, I want you to come forward so that we as a team can help each other. This is something you cannot hide from, not from me or each other and certainly not yourselves. As shinobi, we're going to be fighting all of our lives, why not fight this together?"