Naruto: Tenth Dragon's Poison

Chapter 30

Awaiting the Beginning

Darkness overshadowed every side, from front to back. No matter the direction they faced there was nothing to make out. Where were they exactly? There was no way of telling, they were blind to all else outside of the darkness they found themselves drowned in. They were so deep within yet so awake. There was no physical force to be felt, only an inner energy. What started off as uncertainty was quickly turning into a burning urge to break free. With a strong push of what could consciously be felt they forced their way out of the abyss of dark.

Their eyes sprung open in that very moment, feeling the uproar of the speed in which their heart moved. The surface beneath them was soft in fabric, easing them even if just a little. But where were they? It wasn't until her eyes peered left of where she laid that she came to find someone standing over her. It took only moments for them to notice they had finally come around.

"I see you're finally awake."

They looked up into the soothing blue eyes of the one who looked down upon them as they had everything come back to them in one soaring rush.

"Ino-chan.."

"The one and only," The blonde haired girl confirmed. "However I must say I'm flattered to know you remembered my name, but that is of little concern, how do you feel Inoue-chan?"

Her response was to ease up from where she laid before surveying the room she found herself in. Across the room set aside the opposite wall were a line of four other beds roughly two yards from one another. She then shifted her focus left to find a window a short distance away. She gazed out to see that the sun was preparing to set itself for the days end.

"Where are we exactly?" Orihime asked as she looked back toward the girl who stood right of her.

"We're in the infirmary." Ino informatively replied.

"The infirmary," Orihime questioned. "Why are we here?"

"You obviously don't remember," Ino noted. "But earlier in the day you fainted, and whether it was because of stress or due to something else we decided to bring you here."

"Where is everyone else?"

"We're the only one's here right now."

"I see.."

"I analyzed you myself, and have been watching over you for the duration of the day since then," Ino smilingly conveyed. "And I can confidently say nothing drastic appears to be wrong with you."

A brief pause ensued before she reacted with her own response.

".. Thank you."

Her eyes then drifted to the sheets that covered her, staring down at them for seconds to come. This was a move that provoked the question to ask.

"Hey, is everything ok?" Ino inquired of her.

The two would soon come to be interrupted, one launched by the arrival of someone who walked into the room. The both of them immediately looked that way to find a familiar faces.

"It appears our guest has finally awoken."

"Kakashi-sensei, you're back already," Ino said pleased to see. "I had heard you were called out for an important mission, I wasn't expecting your return so soon."

"The mission in question while brief, is far from over." Kakashi conveyed in response.

Her peak of interest flourished upon hearing this.

"What do you mean?"

"We can go over the details later," Kakashi said before focusing matters elsewhere. "How has our guest been in my absence?"

"She just woke up just a short time before your arrival," Ino informed. "So I'm not entirely sure."

"I'm doing just fine." Orihime replied with an answer to provide.

He bowed his head in response to the encouraging news.

"Good."

It was after speaking this that the group was joined by yet another who entered the infirmary past the open door.

"Naruto," Kakashi said looking toward the young shinobi. "You've come as well, I assume we're set to begin?"

"They're ready for us alright," Naruto confirmed. "I just swung by there a minute ago, they were starting the initial procedure just as I left."

"What procedure," Ino asked voicing her confusion. "What are you guys talking about?"

"We are going to the forensics lab." Naruto informed.

"For what?"

"Evidence collected from our latest mission is about to be analyzed," Naruto replied. "That's why we've been asked to stand in."

"I don't understand, what exactly is being analyzed.. and for what?" Ino asked pressing for more information.

"To try and explain would be selling the whole ordeal short," Kakashi replied. "That being because we don't have all the answers ourselves."

"In that case, would it be alright if I tagged along with the two of you?" Ino asked.

"No, for now I'd like for you to look after Inoue-san for the time being," Kakashi replied. "Given her current state it would be wise for someone to keep an eye on her."

"If anything once the test results are finalized maybe we'll get some much needed light shed on this all." Naruto spoke aloud.

"We can only hope," Kakashi said as he turned back for the other side. "Come Naruto, let us not waste not another moment."

"Already ahead of you." Naruto replied being the first to make a move for the door.

Before leaving he glanced back at the two of them for a final time.

"I'll be back as soon as I can." Kakashi stated.

With that he too made way for the door, finding his way out in no time.. thus leaving it just the two of them yet again.

"Now what?"

…

All else seized to exist for that one moment, it felt as if all had frozen after hearing the spoken. Several possibilities went through his mind as to what exactly the spoken was. Not wanting to be kept in the dark any further on the matter he stepped forward with the obvious question to ask.

"Alright then," Bruce began with everything falling back into play. "What is Huenatar?"

The woman who stood before him simply smiled, reverting all attention back to the stage itself before choosing to reply.

"To try and explain to you what the Huenatar is, is something none can provide a full explanation for."

"What do you mean?"

"We know of its power and its capabilities, but we still have no understanding of what drives it or how it originally came to be."

With every little bit detailed he found himself with more questions to ask rather than feeling enlightened on the matter, a fact which he let be known.

"None of what you're saying makes any sense," Bruce stated. "Tell me, what is so special about this Huenatar that you and everyone else have chosen to gather here?"

The chants of all else only rose in volume in the coming seconds. This alone was enough to let him know things were about to get underway. He looked to the stage in that instance, feeling it was only a matter of time something made an appearance. But what?

"I don't have a good feeling about this."

Even with that thought bearing in mind he didn't stress an inch. If there was ever a time answers would come it was now. It was just as expected, after seconds of directing his attention forward someone appeared upon the stage.

It was a man who was strongly built in definition with short dark red hair who wore long black pants and black boots. He was shirtless but wore a scruffy tan body length jacket that stretched down to just above his ankles, strapped upon his neck was a necklace of some kind, something he couldn't clearly make out from afar. The last distinctive detail to make out was the black headband that was tied over his eyes. He took the time to look over the newcomer for seconds more.

"Who the hell is this guy?" Bruce questioned.

"Our host." Myiou took the liberty of answering.

"I didn't realize you were still listening." Bruce admitted.

"I choose to hear what I wish to."

Just as he was to respond he opted not to before looking back to the stage.

"You said this guy is the host," Bruce stated. "May I ask for what?"

"Explaining to you now would be pointless, look," Myiou directed with the nod of her head. "We're about to begin."

All discussion fell close in response to her words. The man on stage stood there for several moments without speaking a single word. All chants had come to a halt, leaving the entire room virtually silent. The man sported a long piece of cloth that was tied over his eyes began walking from one end of the stage to the other, twitching his head from side to side as if to look the crowd who stood before him.

After crossing past center point a number of four times he finally stopped. Both hands fell behind his back as he leveled his chest outward. With not even a single word to escape his lips Bruce was already drawing up a inner profile for this man of 'authority'. His stance not only voiced an image of someone with a strong position but also a boast of pride that couldn't be denied.

The time finally came, after waiting many seconds the one to have appeared finally spoke to all in attendance.

"Welcome back followers of the Huenatar Guild," The man spoke. "I have gathered you all here to inform to you the next step in reaching our ultimate goal."

His first words to speak gave out information which he strongly welcomed.

"So, everyone gathered here is part of some guild.. interesting."

He silenced his thoughts, ready to listen on for what more would be detailed.

"But before I get into that I would like to stress my happiness with the growth in our numbers over the past couple weeks, it will ensure that the vision of the Huenatar is reached," He continued on. "It will take each and every one of you to see this all the way through."

With his arms still shelved behind his back he began walking once more as he continued speaking.

"As I mentioned in my opening statements we have yet another step to take in our mission, as of this afternoon I was given word that our operatives that journeyed out three months ago under my command have all gained refuge in their assigned regions," He informed. "With that accomplished we can now focus on building foundation, starting with construction of the Rhogoha."

This bit certainly interested him.

"Rhogoha, what is that?"

He kept his eyes on the one who continued to speak, hoping to hear more about this 'Rhogoha'.

"And once it stands tall in form we'll have the means to see our mission through, within arm's length if you will," He stated proudly. "World peace will be ours, and with that said I will leave you all to return to your daily routines, expect another gathering sometime in the next day or so."

That would indeed prove to be his closing statement. After speaking the man wearing the tan the trench coat made a move for the far right side of the stage where he stepped behind a curtain that hung in place. This completely put him out of sight, and left a certain someone with more questions to contemplate.

"So that was it huh, I was expecting this little gathering of yours to last quite a bit longer." Bruce stated.

"It typically does."

"Is that right?"

"So, I take it you received the answers that you sought?" Myiou said looking to where he stood to make an alarming discovery.

There was not a person to be found.

"He was just there, how… where did he go?"

By this time all who had gathered were now in the process of making their way toward the exit. The majority had hoodies that hung high over their heads, making it that much more difficult for her to try and locate the man who had just been at her side.

"Clever, he must be attempting to blend in with the others."

She gazed over all who walked for seconds more, hoping she would lay eye to the one who had followed her this far. Her efforts would amount to nothing, finally giving in after looking back and forth many times over. It was now clear, there would be no finding him. This moment of realization brought only one thought to mind.

"Why did he follow me, what was his intent?"

She had to wonder if this was something she'd ever gain the truth of, standing there stone still as the river of people continued to flow outward which left her in a state of daze.

…..

The two of them stood by patiently as they observant area of the lab as the ongoing look over of one of the bodies that had been brought in to be analyzed continued. The room to the lab area opened from behind during the process of this, prompting him to look that way immediately.

"Shikamaru, what are you doing here?" Naruto asked clearly surprised to see him.

"I came as soon as I heard about the unground tunnel," Shikamaru replied. "What exactly was discovered?"

"They're continuing the search as we speak," Kakashi informed. "What else they'll find at the site is anyone's guess, as of now the only thing brought to the lab is the few bodies and limbs discovered in the tunnel, all which tell a dark story."

"Would it be premature for me to ask if we have an answer for the why and whom?"

"At this time there's no telling on both accounts, unfortunately."

"That doesn't mean we won't find out." Naruto said quick to note.

After that the attention of all three fell to the examination table which was on the other side of the glass wall between them. There were two people inside, both who were squarely focused on one body in particular. It wasn't until the passing of those next moments that he really got a clear look at the body in question, one which brought a new level of disgust.

"He was only a kid." Shikamaru said clutching his left in growing anger.

Unexpectedly one of the men working in the lab made his way toward them, walking past the automatic doors which lead him into the hallway they stood in. The containment helmet that was worn atop his head was immediately removed upon reaching the group.

"I have some news to share with you all." He reported as he lowered the helmet down to his side.

"That's why we're here." Kakashi said in response.

"It's just as expected, the deceased boy was indeed from Kumogakure," He informed. "Besides the headband he wore suggesting this, the dirt samples pulled from his hair only backed this fact further."

"What about a cause of death," Shikamaru asked. "Are we any closer to determining that?"

"No cause yet, though I can say there's a big possibility that his death didn't occur in the tunnel itself, but rather elsewhere."

"Something we suspected from the beginning." Kakashi stated.

"The same could be said about all other evidence that brought in for us to examine."

"Is there anything else you can tell us at this time," Naruto asked. "What about the other bodies, are they from Kumogakure as well?"

"We won't know for another couple hours I'm afraid," He replied. "Once the results come back on the tested we'll have an assured answer, until then there's nothing more I have to add."

"We understand." Kakashi relayed nodding his head.

That final gesture closed out all discussion. The forensics specialist made his way back to the lab in that instance, leaving just the three of them to stand.

"Now what?" Naruto inquired as he looked toward the body on the other side of the glass.

"Well there's certainly not much we can do here." Shikamaru said noting the obvious.

"I suggest that we all get out of here and call it a day, as you said there's not much more we can do as of now other than wait." Kakashi said in agreement.

"Shouldn't we return to the tunnel," Naruto questioned. "I'm sure by now progress has been made since our earlier visit."

"Something that cannot be doubted, but our days' work has been enough," Kakashi stated. "We'll put a cap on it for the time being and resume first thing tomorrow, rest is just as important as anything else when seeing a mission through, never forget that."

Even with this being the case he felt the need to do more. With nothing more to stand by for the trio made their way out of the lab area. That capped off the first page in this new investigation, but with the day crawling towards its end he knew his activities were long from over. All thoughts shifted back to the encounter that had happened earlier in the day.

"Sasuke.."

….

Hours had passed since finding their way to this very location. She had found herself seating atop a large rock, looking toward the distance to see the sun finally settling out for the night to come. At long last the time had finally come, something she took very little time in announcing as she stood tall.

"It is now time."

All who stood in range of her immediately looked toward.

"Bout time," Mirror Master voiced with a stress of impatience while uncrossing his arms. "I was wondering how much longer you would choose to keep us waiting."

"You act as if you are surprised," Killer Frost said taking a step forward. "I told you before we'd wait until nights beginning before a move was to be made, and now that it is at doorsteps length we shall now proceed."

"How far is this place?" Lady Shiva asked.

"A mile and a quarter from here." Metallo reminded.

"Yes," Killer Frost said before looking into the direction of where a strand of mountains could be seen. "We will be there soon enough."

"And who is it that will be there to greet us?" Medusa asked voicing an inner distrust.

"You shall see when we arrive," Killer Frost smirked. "Come now, let us not keep our correspondent waiting."

With that said she made the first move onward. The others followed, not a single person weary of who or what they'd come to find at paths end.

…

By the time the sight of the entry point came into view the sun had already completely fallen off the edge of sight. They looked to the short distance ahead as they walked, almost surprised to see who was standing out in the clear.

"Welcome back."

"Iruka-sensei, what are you doing out here," Choji inquired upon approaching him. "And out here alone for that matter, did you happen to be waiting for someone?"

"Yes, the return of you three," Iruka replied. "Word spread here about your adventure in Tanigakure, and we could only assume the three of you would head back as soon as the mission was completed."

"How long have you been waiting out here?" Sakura asked.

"A little over twenty minutes, which isn't bad considering."

"Do you know where Tsunade-sama is?" Hinata asked.

"Yes," Sakura said in agreement. "I'd like to share with her what we learned in Tanigakure as soon as possible."

"That'll have to wait." Iruka stated.

"Why is that?" Choji asked.

"She's out for the night on business."

"What kind of business?"

"Let's just say it has to do with a connection of interest."

The three looked to one another, not a single one of them having the slightest clue for what it is he could possibly be speaking of.

"But enough about that," Iruka smilingly said. "What do you say we head in, you all look exhausted."

"Exhausted and hungry." Choji replied.

"Come then," Iruka said with the sway of his head. "Let us go and eat, dinners on me."

"I can't say no to that." Choji replied with a smile flashing bright.

"You guys go on ahead." Sakura said.

"What's that supposed to mean," Hinata asked. "Are you not coming as well?"

"It's been a long trip, I'd rather go home and get some rest," Sakura said before marching onward. "I'm sure you'll all manage just fine."

Not once did she look back. The detachment in tone was something that couldn't be missed, one which brought about a concern.

"She seems a little down," Iruka noted. "Is she alright?"

"As you said it was an exhausting trip," Hinata said. "I'm certain she'll be just fine after a good night's rest."

"Yes.. you're probably right," Iruka said looking back at the two of them. "I'm sure she'll be a full go by tomorrow."

"No doubt about it," Choji said in agreement. "There's not much that can keep her down for long."

With that said he looked to get back to the proposed.

"So what do you say we hurry in and fetch something appetizing huh, does that sound good?"

"No need to coax me any further." Choji replied.

"You can count me in as well." Hinata accepted as well.

He simply smiled, turning back for the path ahead as he lead the way. They followed, wanting nothing more than to move past the last days deception of events.

….

Night brought its full wake in the coming hour. There were clouds that hung over the entire terrain, making it one of the darker nights seen in recent days. The faint whisper of the wind blowing through the cracks in the wall was the only sound that blew in to the vicinity of where they stood.

Even with there being very little to be heard there was much to be felt. The dark intent of that preceded them couldn't be any closer. It was energizing, invigorating even. Their stone shut eyes stripped open at the realization of it all.

"Yes, they have finally arrived.. now let us see if they are worthy of the test," They spoke out an inner pride. "If they live to witness dawn's arrival, only then can the mission itself will truly commence."

To Be Continued