Naruto: Tenth Dragon's Poison
Chapter 31
Assembled to the Dark
There was little to be heard, and nothing to be seen from the dark room he found himself standing in. But regardless there was something to be felt, something that streamed to the conscious of his entire body. Whatever it was approached from far below.
"Is it him.. has he finally returned?"
There was no move made from where he stood, simply staying tuned onto what could be felt. Its presence neared with each passing moment, there was no mistaking it, whoever it was in pursuit was heading directly to his position. There was no denying it. With a fact so clear they shifted in stance to the right, looking just in time to see the floor door press open.
"It's about time, I was beginning to wonder if I should go out and find you."
"I had an unexpected dance, something that kept me on my heels longer than expected Kon-El." Bruce replied upon stepping out from the depths below.
"Elkon." Conner reminded.
"I didn't forget," Bruce said before kicking the floor door shut. "It's dark in here, are there still any candles remaining that we came across in this place the other night?"
"You bet," Conner said facing him. "I'll go ahead and grab two."
"Just one," Bruce replied. "We need to preserve what we have for as long as we can."
He complied with what was asked of him, making his way through the dark to where they had been placed. The stash was reached in a matter of seconds. He grabbed two candles as instructed before walking over to where the table was further right of where he stood. Once there he placed the candles atop the center of the table before lighting the single candle with the use of his heat vision. This brought instant light to the room.
"We're all set." Conner said.
"You didn't seem in the least bit startled when I returned." Bruce said switching subject.
He looked his way as he responded.
"That's because I could already feel you coming, an alert delivered to me through my TK."
"That would explain, though I must say I was even more surprised you didn't come looking for me," Bruce admitted. "I imagine I was gone a lot longer than I said I would be, due to some obstacles that weren't fully in my control."
"Is that right?"
"Nothing I couldn't handle."
"So, did your journey through the land below bring to you what you were hoping to find?"
"Yes, and even more," Bruce passed. "But we'll go over the details of that tomorrow."
"I'm certainly interested to hear."
"What did you do in after my departure, surely you didn't stand in here the majority of the time while I was away?"
"You asked for me to remain here remember?"
"Doesn't mean I expected you would." Bruce replied.
He smiled in response to this.
"Then you know me too well."
"So tell me, where did you go on my time away?"
"Not far, I stuck to familiar territory," Conner replied. "I returned to the city, I imagine I was there for at least an hour before returning."
"I'm curious as to why." Bruce admitted as he crossed his arms.
"I was doing some thinking about what you said when we first arrived here, about understanding not only environment but the people of any unfamiliar territory."
"And?"
"I took more time to observe."
"And did you gain anything from these observation's?"
".. I honestly can't say that I did," Conner admitted. "Maybe because I wasn't looking for the right thing?"
"Never mind it, why don't you rest up for the night," Bruce suggested. "Besides tomorrow will have big implications for us both."
"Huh, what's happening tomorrow?"
"Thus far since arriving we've merely gathered visual information about our whereabouts, it's time we expanded on that." Bruce replied uncrossing his arms.
"I'm not quite sure I follow," Conner said voicing his confusion. "Mind elaborating?"
"Stay grounded, we'll get into the details tomorrow." Bruce said before making a move for the door.
"Where are you going?"
"On a walk," Bruce replied still looking forward. "I'll be back shortly."
He walked out after a couple steps more, closing the door on his way out. It felt as a revolving routine by this point, one which left him alone once more.
"This guy is so hard to figure, you'd think after walking all day he'd want to rest up," Conner thought to himself. "I wonder what happened down in the sewer anyway, why wait until tomorrow to tell me?"
…..
The more time that passed the more exhausting things became. He pushed himself not to fall under, but no matter how hard he tried it was inevitable. Everything was nothing more than a blank slate. His mind had tailed off, for how long was unknown. Before he could fall any deeper the touch of a soft breeze pressed from the outside, leveling him back to all that surrounded him.
His eyes peered open after becoming self-aware, coming to find himself staring into the face of the moon itself. The wavy surface beneath only reinforced what his first thought was.
"Where am I?"
He shot up from where he laid to find he was in a dark open field. The only light came from the stars and moon above. But this brought the obvious question.
"I was in my room last time I can recall.. so how in the world did I end up here?"
Wanting nothing more than to make light of the situation he looked from left to right before hearing someone speak from behind.
"Naruto.."
His eyes raised at the mention, instantly jumping to his feet before turning around to face the one who stood a short distance away. There eyes were now entwined with one another, both clearly waiting for the other to speak the next line of words.
"Sasuke," Naruto said with a pause. "Were you the one who brought me here?"
".. Hmm."
There was little to make of the given response.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I thought it was clear we were agreed to meet come nightfall, so why is it then when I arrived at your place I found you fast asleep, did you forget about our arrangement?"
His fist clutched upon hearing this.
"It's been a long day, what would you expect," Naruto said directly pointing at him. "And besides you never even told me a time or place for when or where we'd be meeting, so as far as I was concerned how did I know you didn't forget?"
"Never mind that, let us not waste any further time with such negligible detail," Sasuke said looking to get back to what brought them here in the first place. "So tell me, what more were you able to learn about what was discovered in that underground tunnel?"
"Not much to be honest, at least nothing that gives us any real insight on who might of attacked or why."
"…."
"However as little as it may be we did learn something, the location of where one of the victims was originally from," Naruto informed. "Kumogakure."
He spoke his surprise immediately after learning this.
"Kumogakure, are you certain?"
"Yes, I'm sure," Naruto replied. "One of the bodies found in the tunnel was that of a boy who was identified as being from Kumogakure due to the worn headband, but predominantly because of the dirt particles that were found attached to his clothing."
"That seems to be foreshadowing something deeper."
"A shared feeling by most everyone involved," Naruto said as he brought a hand to his chin. "The biggest question now, did the attacks happen here in the land of fire or elsewhere?"
"What about the other findings you mentioned," Sasuke inquired. "Is everything that has been collected to this point affiliated with Kumogakure?"
"That much we don't know," Naruto replied. "That is still yet to be determined."
His hand leveled down from his chin as he looked to another subject.
"Earlier today you said you had to be somewhere, where was that exactly," Naruto asked out of curiosity. "I only ask because I had a feeling it was related to what's been going on."
"Quite possibly."
His interest only rose after having his thoughts confirmed.
"How so?" Naruto asked taking a step toward him.
"Before even reaching the tunnel I came across something."
Wasting no time Sasuke reached for a small brown bag that hung from the side of his belt, untying it before opening it to pull out what lied inside. It was three small items, all which resembled miniature telescopes. All three were slightly different in length by about three inches. This was not something he was expecting to be revealed, but what were they, and why were they being presented to him?
"What are those?" Naruto asked.
"I too wasn't sure when I first came across them, but after a couple hours of analyzing each I've come to find that all three are nothing more than your standard ordinary camera," Sasuke replied. "But it's the positioning in where they were found that speaks a story."
"Where did you find them?"
"I had only found one at the time we met earlier, it was after having our conversation that I returned to the surrounding area and discovered an additional two," Sasuke conveyed. "Each of them was lined out roughly four hundred meters from the site itself in different directions."
"Now I see why you were in such a hurry to leave," Naruto acknowledged. "By site, do you mean where the underground tunnel was discovered?"
"Yes," Sasuke replied. "Why or whom strapped them to the trees I found them linked to is another question altogether."
"Do you think the killer might have done it?"
"As I said, I do not know," Sasuke stated. "If it was indeed the killer to have planted them, one has to wonder about the intent.. what is there to be gained by such a move?"
"And you're sure these cameras were locked onto the tunnel site and not something else right?"
"I checked all angles myself, there's no doubt about it," Sasuke replied self-assured of it. "But that's not it."
"I can't wait to hear this."
With nothing as little as a warning one of the camera devices was tossed toward him. He caught it into his grasp before looking him in the eye once more.
"What is it?" Naruto asked of him.
"Why don't you have a look at the bottom of it?"
He had no idea for what he was getting at but complied none the less. With a move in hand he turned it to its bottom side to make an alarming discovery.
"The mark of Kumogakure."
"Yes."
"But what does it mean?"
"If I had to make a guess I'd say the planted cameras were manufactured in Kumogakure, the embedded labels more than indicate this." Sasuke said.
"First the bodies and limbs, and now this," Naruto said beginning to make light of it. "It seems we have a location where everything originated."
"Kumogakure."
"Exactly."
"When you mentioned the origin of one of the bodies it was clear there was a connection to be made."
"Looks like we might know the location of where these supposed Shadow Revenants reside, if it is true they're the ones responsible." Naruto said keeping an open mind.
"Maybe.."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Naruto asked.
"It all seems too convenient."
"I don't understand?"
"While all that we've gathered thus far points to Kumogakure one has to wonder if this is all intentional."
"Are you thinking this could be a set up?"
"Possibly, but even with the likelihood of that it's clear this latest line of given fact must be looked into," Sasuke said. "This means embarking on a journey to Kumogakure."
"Something we both can agree on," Naruto said. "In light of all this I think the sooner we let everyone in on this the better."
Silence came in the wake of this, something he was not expecting.
"Is something wrong?" Naruto asked.
"I'd rather we kept all that we've discussed just between us."
"What, why," Naruto questioned. "How does that benefit us in any way?"
"Look at the bigger picture," Sasuke began ready to put things into perspective. "If whoever is responsible learns we're catching onto them it will be harder for us to lock onto who they really are."
"Bit late for that don't you think," Naruto said in response. "With the discovery of the underground tunnel it will only be a matter of time before they're aware their activities have been discovered, if not already."
"Doesn't also mean they're aware we've made the inner connections," Sasuke reminded. "The ones pointing directly to Kumogakure, without the knowledge of both the camera's and the bodies that conclusion can't be as firmly drawn."
"Hmm.. you actually make a good point," Naruto said bringing both hands to the back of his head. "But with that said we cannot completely ignore what we know."
"Yes, this is why I will travel to Kumogakure myself." Sasuke announced.
"What," Naruto said dropping his hands back to his side. "By yourself?"
"Yes, that is my intent."
"Neither of us have any real idea as to what we could be dealing with," Naruto reminded. "Let me come with you."
"I'm aware of the uncertain circumstances surrounding the decided, but I am also certain I can take care of myself," Sasuke replied. "And besides your position in all of this should be to remain here."
"And do what?" Naruto questioned while crossing his arms.
"Stay attentive, we still don't know who these attackers are or.. where they are now," Sasuke detailed. "They could be anywhere."
As much as he hated to admit it, there was no denying the spoken.
"You're right," Naruto said making sense of the conveyed. "For all we know the killers could very well still be here in the Land of Fire, possibly even Konohagakure."
This brought yet another pause between them, leaving him to contemplate the several other possibilities throughout his mind. He uncrossed his arms as he looked to the night sky with one last level of ground to cover.
"So you get to Kumogakure, what then," Naruto asked. "How do you know what to look for once you arrive?"
"Discovering just that is part of the mission."
"On the flipped side of things, what am I supposed to say if anyone comes looking for you," Naruto asked. "After all if we're going to keep this whole thing under the desk for now it's not like I can tell them where you've gone."
"I'm sure you'll come up with something conservative." Sasuke replied.
His eyes twitched at his given answer.
"Hey, what's that supposed to mean." Naruto asked as he leveled his sights back down.
By the time his eyes graced back into place there was no one to be seen. He turned in position to cover all sides to come to the obvious conclusion.. he was now alone.
".. Sasuke."
Just as he was to make a move he felt something next to his left foot. He looked down to find the brown bag that had been presented to him before. He reached down and grabbed it, opening it to find the other two camera devices inside. With one deep breath to take he turned back for Konohagakure. It was strange, even with so much gained there was an emptiness to be felt.
…
They had walked for a significant time. There was no doubt in the pleased looks that came to be expressed after finally reaching the bottom of the mountain after stepping out past a barricade of towering trees.
"We're here, the endless travel is finally over." Metallo released.
"I was wondering how much longer it'd be before we reached this place," Mirror Master said walking up to his right side. "That was clearly over a mile and a quarter we just walked, no matter how you look at it."
"Perhaps so," Killer Frost spoke from the left of the two. "But the important thing is, we've now arrived."
It was at that second that something could be seen from the corner of his eye, something slashed into the ground itself.
"What is that?" Mirror Master pointed.
All immediately looked into the direction pointed out to find what had grabbed his attention. There drilled into the ground was what appeared to be a long piece of steel.
"What is that?" Metallo questioned.
"It's a sword," Lady Shiva said sure of this after taking a look for herself. "What a strange place to leave one astray."
"But why?" Metallo wondered.
"That does not concern us," Medusa stated. "We didn't come all this way just to inquire about an insignificant piece of steel."
After speaking her mind on the matter she then turned for the lead navigator who stood a few feet away.
"Killer Frost we've followed just as you asked, now.. where are they," Medusa asked. "Where is the one who orchestrated this entire gathering?"
She turned with the wave of her snow long hair, flashing a telling smirk as she answered the asked.
"They're a lot closer than you realize," Killer Frost replied placing both hands on her waist. "But before you may have the privilege of the welcome you must all first pass the test."
"Test," Mirror Master questioned. "What test?"
With one devious laugh none of them would soon forget, Killer Frost created a large ice wall between herself and them.
"Oh no you don't." Metallo said launching forward.
With a striking fist of fury the ten foot ice wall came tumbling down into several shards. To their dismay there was no one to be found on the other side.
"She's gone."
"We should have never trusted her." Medusa voiced.
"I don't understand, if she planned on abandoning us from the beginning then why bring us here," Mirror Master questioned. "Surely there's more to this?"
"The bigger question is what happens now?" Lady Shiva said.
That moment brought a subtle sound from behind, one which startled each of them.
"What was that?" Lady Shiva said being the first to turn around.
What they now came to face was something not one of them could have ever predicted. Ascending from the ground beneath was a hoard of skeletons. They forced their way to the surface with strong effort. Each of them held a different weapon of choice in hand, a visual which told a story in itself.
"Would I be clear in my analysis in saying we've been lead to this location through a level falsification?" Mirror Master stated.
It was after speaking this that they came to realize that this ascension of darkness was unfolding on all sides of them.
"Hmmm.. looks like we're surrounded." Metallo said stating the obvious.
"And it doesn't look like they're here for a friendly greeting." Mirror Master added.
There was no stop to this rising arrival. Their eyes glowed a sinister purple in color, all locked onto the group of four they not only surrounded but toppled in numbers. With another few moments to pass the army of the undead began slowly inching their way in on the group, each holding their weapons firmly in hand as they did.
"There has to be at least a hundred of them," Lady Shiva noted after glancing in all directions. "And it doesn't appear they'll be leaving anytime soon."
"At least not until seeing their task through." Metallo said in response.
"Which in this case appears to be eliminating each of us from the fray of things." Mirror Master noted.
"I highly doubt they'll be successful in doing so," Medusa said stepping forward. "I can handle these dotard walking fraudulent's myself."
"Perhaps, but I believe you've been pushed past the point here." Lady Shiva said.
"What do you mean?" Mirror Master asked.
"Observe and learn," Lady Shiva said before stepping away from the three. "I'll have this taken care of in small time."
She moved confidently forward, heading straight for the army of skeletons that locked in from all sides.
"She's crazy, no way she can handle this all on her own," Mirror Master voiced. "Last time I checked she was the only one of us four with no real abilities."
This didn't stop her from marching forward. She didn't stop until coming within feet of one of the walking skeletons, staring into their mysterious eyes which gave nothing in response. The odor of decay was strong, tacked on was the mixed in smell of rusted iron that came from the machete in hand. It was all so real; her given senses couldn't deny this. There was a slight hesitance on the choice she was about to make, but only for a moment. There was no way she could be wrong, her mind was sure of it no matter what was presented before her.
The next move to make was one none of them could have foreseen. She dropped to her knees before speaking her stance.
"I surrender."
"What is she doing?" Metallo stamped in complete disagreement of the announced.
"If she's seeking death, then allow her to see her wish through," Medusa remarked. "I could care less."
"You really don't think we should step in?"
"Hold on," Mirror Master said holding up a hand. "I'd like to see where this goes, perhaps there's more to the perceived."
The warrior skeleton that stood over her held up the blade in hand as she bowed her head as a way of showcasing that she had in fact conceded. She looked up into the beings eyes that towered, watching as it readied itself for the slash to be made. She braced herself for the impact of the truth. Without warning the swing was taken. She didn't flinch, feeling the up-race in her heart rate as the blade passed through her as if it was some kind of hologram.
No sooner after this occurred the skeleton that stood over her disappeared in the blink of an eye, as did all the others that had pressed forward from the grounds that surrounded them. The seconds that followed brought a silence of uncertainty. She slowly found her way back to her feet with a small sense of accomplishment.
"Ok, anyone want to explain exactly what the hell just happened?" Metallo asked.
Without warning a soft and timid voice spoke, one which echoed from overhead as if someone was talking down at them from the sky above.
"Excellent, the first test has been completed in definitely, now prove yourselves worthy of joining my ranks by making your way up to the top of the mountain within twenty four hours," The voice of someone they had never heard before detailed. "Your time starts now… oh and I should let you know there might be a few surprises on the way up so be on the lookout, hope to see you all soon… until then."
The moments that passed brought a long pause, one with an added whisper of the shallow wind that blew past. Each of them looked up toward the mountainside. There was no doubt what was to come next. There was no denying the task, if they did, where would that leave them? That was the very thought that carted on each of their minds.
But above all who was the one behind the voice who had spoken, and more importantly what did he hope to achieve with them at his side?
…
The day had just blinked its awakening. The sun just barely peaked out from the west, bringing along a relatively cool dawn. The chirping of the early birds brought life to the surrounding area as they glided from the area above.
Since making the move to follow after the ones they had unemotionally crossed they had yet to reach the spoken location of interest. They kept a safe distance from behind, not wanting to be spotted by the ones they were now in pursuit of. There was a derailing tiredness to be felt by both, but no matter what they were determined to persevere.
The path of the two that traveled a short distance ahead began to slow in speed, a move that was immediately noted by the two of them.
"They're slowing down, why?"
No sooner after having this come to mind did it take for the two that they followed to come to a complete stop. This left the two of them to seek hiding spots behind two separate trees, ones which were just a couple feet.
"They've stopped," Bart said peeking out to where they stood several feet away. "Do you think we've reached the place they were talking about?"
"I'm not sure," Uryuu replied. "At least I don't think so, only way to find out is too listen in on what they might say next."
Discussions between the two of them were immediately dropped. He looked forward, keeping his eyes decisively locked on the two dressed in the full body silk outfits.
"Why have they stopped," Uryuu thought to himself. "Could it be that they've finally caught onto us?"
The two masked individuals stood in silence for several more moments to come, giving not the slightest of clues as to why they had come to a stop. His nerves began to rise, wondering if he should make a move before the opportunity was no longer open. Before he could act on anything the woman spoke.
"We're only a couple miles away, it won't be long before we reach Kumogakure."
"Yes I know," The man replied. "And we're even ahead of schedule by almost an hour, we could take a break if necessary."
"Rest can wait, I'd rather we got to the point of agreement."
"I am in full agreement, however if you did not stop because of strain, I am curious as to what provoked the move?"
She simply looked to the surrounding area, a move which lasted for a couple gathering seconds. After doing so her eyes fell back to the path that awaited them.
"It's nothing, we need not concern ourselves with baseless hunches," She replied before stepping forward. "Come, let us continue."
With that the two of them took off once again. Her words couldn't have been any clearer, she was onto the possibility of some tailing them.. but had she in fact spotted them? And if so how come she didn't confront them? This was something he couldn't hinder for too long, after all they didn't want to fall too far behind on their pursuit.
"Alright Bart-Kun," Uryuu said pressing away from the tree he was leaned upon. "You heard what they said, we're almost there so let's not lose track of them now when we're this close."
He however did not receive a response. This opted for him to look toward the tree opposite of where he stood, the sight he came to find was borderline dumbfounding. He looked toward the ground to see him seated upon the ground with his head leaned to the comfort of the tree with his eyes notably closed. He brought a palm to his face before speaking out on the matter.
"What the hell are you doing?!" Uryuu posed loud enough for him to hear.
His eyes instantly flashed wide as he popped back to his feet all in one move.
"Woh, what's with the yelling?" Bart asked.
"What were you doing sleeping just now," Uryuu questioned. "Have you already forgotten about what's brought us here in the first place?"
"Wasn't sleepin dude, just resting."
"It makes no difference, we don't have time for small talk, they're only pressing more ground between us as we speak," Uryuu said stepping out from behind where he had hidden. "Come, the last thing we want is to lose them completely."
"Aye Captain." Bart remarked giving him the salute.
The two fell in pursuit once more. It was true the destined location was now within arms reaches, but what would the paths end bring?
…..
The call was made, one which required her immediate attention. The day had barely begun for her and already she was being called to action. But for what? There were very few others to be seen walking the halls at this hour besides herself. She looked ahead to see the office door, taking all but a couple steps for it to be reached. Once there she held out a hand to knock, making contact only to have the door fall open.
"It's open."
With an entry point already wide she stepped in while voicing her arrival.
"Is anyone here?"
It was only after speaking this that she came to discover that someone was indeed inside the room besides herself, just not the person who she was expecting to see.
"Shikamaru-kun?"
"Sakura-chan," Shikamaru replied turning to face her. "What are you doing here?"
"I was summoned by Tsunade-sama," Sakura informed taking another step into the room. "Is she not here?"
"No, at least not yet," Shikamaru replied. "I too was called to make an appearance here, it's strange that she'd call us in at the same time to talk, unless it is something that has barring on us both?"
"Any ideas what that could be?"
"Not a clue, I wasn't given any insight as to why I was asked to come here, only that it was something of moderate importance."
"Guess that makes the both of us," Sakura said as she took a step further into the room. "I'm certain she'll show up soon."
The two stood a couple feet apart as they waited for the arrival of the one who had called for their presence. It was during this time that she found herself contemplating on what this was all about. Did this have something to do with the task that had led her to Tanigakure, was there something they had missed. Or did this gathering have to do with something else entirely?
This coursed through her mind for moments to come. Her thoughts were only broken by the sound of someone entering the room from behind.
"Excellent you're both already here, which means we can get started."
"Tsunade-sama, what is this all about?" Shikamaru said being the first to ask.
She didn't give an immediate response, continuing past the two toward the chair on the other side of the desk where she then took a seat.
"This won't take long, but either way you both are welcome to pull up a chair if you'd like." Tsunade offered.
"I'd rather stand." Shikamaru politely declined.
"Rest can wait until later." Sakura noted on her behalf.
"Cutting right the point I see," Tsunade said not surprised in the least. "Which only makes sense since I'm certain neither of you have the slightest clue as to why you two were called here in particular."
"That would be a fair assessment." Shikamaru commented in response.
"Well let us not rehash what is known and get straight to the point of why I asked to see you both," Tsunade began with the move of placing both of her hands to the top of desk. "By now we're all fully aware of the recent deaths and the mystery surrounding each, it is an uproar in activity that has not only taken place in the Land of Fire but in other regions as well."
The two nodded their heads in acknowledgement.
"The title given to this person or group responsible for the attacks is the 'Shadow Revenants', and though we haven't put much emphasis or time into this matter up until now all of that is about to change, yes," Tsunade continued with the rest of her chin atop her knuckles. "I'm going to branch together a division strictly for handling this task, titled S.S. standing for 'Squad Shadow'."
"Squad Shadow.." Sakura stamped in mind at the introduction of its name.
"That doesn't sound like a bad idea." Shikamaru said backing her completely.
"That's good to know, because I've decided that you and Haruna Sakura will be the ones to lead this division."
The two immediately looked to one another, both clearly surprised at what had just been announced.
"What.. are you serious about this?" Sakura asked unsure of how to respond to the given news.
"Yes, and I couldn't be any more certain in my decision."
"I don't understand," Shikamaru expressed inching in a step closer to the desk. "Of all people to choose from to handle such a task, why us?"
"For starters you two are already linked to what has been unfolding in some capacity or another, secondly and most importantly I trust that the two of you will press the matter until some questions surrounding these mystery killings are answered," Tsunade went on. "I've already handpicked a small bunch who will help assist in your mission, however if there's anyone else you'd like to join you in your journey's that is perfectly fine, just make sure you run any additions by me."
"Understood." Shikamaru verbally noted.
Sakura nodded as her way of giving acknowledgement. There was no doubt, even after hearing the reasoning behind the decision she still found it hard to believe she was one of two to be handed this mission of importance which was surrounded by so much uncertainty.
"Now that we've gotten that much out of the way I think now would be a good time to go over what we already know." Tsunade set.
"That's just the thing, how do we know what does and doesn't relate to these.. Shadow Revenants," Shikamaru posed. "I mean it isn't like we've found a defiant denominator that clearly links all these killings together."
"A very true statement, determining the who, why, and how will be your main objective," Tsunade detailed. "As it stands now the only incidents that can be linked to this group of killers is what occurred at one of Konohagakure's largest trading sites, the reported attack in Iwagakure that left several dead, last and most recently the deceased that were discovered here in the Land of Fire just two nights ago."
"While the possibly is debatable for the first two mentioned incidents I have to disagree with the third," Sakura said voicing her opinion. "As I'm sure you've learned by now the killer of the ones found in the forest two nights ago by, Choji-kun, Hinata-chan, and myself was discovered once we arrived in Tanigakure, it is unfortunate his death could not be prevented, I wouldn't be the only to say I had a lot of questions I'd have liked to ask."
"Yes, I am fully aware of the details surrounding the matter, as they were given to me first thing this morning," Tsunade informed. "However I was also given an update on the situation as well, one that leads me to believe there's more to what occurred in Tanigakure than the surface would imply."
The interest she had only peaked upon hearing this bit of information.
"There's an update, what is it?" Sakura asked stepping directly up to the desk with an undeniable anticipation.
The Hokage peered up into her awaiting eyes, delivering a set of news that only added more weight to what was already known.
"Terua Demoar and Ceila Demoar.. they're both dead."
The look to fall upon her face was one that could only be described as confusion, something that was immediately noticed.
"Perhaps you'll know who I'm talking about if I refer to the names they were traveling under at the time," Tsunade said. "Those names being, Shuen and Kelsho."
Her eyes widened at the given, there was no doubt this news came as a surprise.
"What?"
"Yes, the both of them are now dead," Tsunade restated. "According to report they passed sometime last night, the cause of death given to us was described as some kind of heart failure."
"Both of them," Sakura inquired. "That can't be."
"A coincidence I'm not buying, the medical records pulled on the two of them showed no kind of heart problems prior to their deaths," Tsunade conveyed. "I believe someone caused their deaths."
"Or something," Shikamaru said keeping an open mind. "The fact you've brought this to our attention means you believe there's a possibility that their deaths has something to do with the Shadow Revenants?"
"That will be for the both of you to determine, this whole matter is in your hands now." Tsunade declared before standing up from where she sat.
"What's wrong, are you going somewhere?"
"Yes, I'm scheduled to be somewhere concerning another matter," Tsunade replied. "We will resume discussion later today."
"Well if you're leaving we'll follow you out," Shikamaru said removing his hands from his pockets. "There'd be no point to either of us sticking around here in your absence."
"Very well," Tsunade replied with the nod of her head. "Then let us all leave together."
"That's perfectly fine with me."
She took the first steps for the exit with the two of them following. The thoughts of possibilities that now ran through her mind were uncharted. Was there really more to the deaths of shinobi who had been lifelessly discovered? Could it be that someone else was involved? Or was there even something more deceptive in play. That was the top thought that traced through the tunnels of her mind.
"Could it be that I was right… was there something I missed, could it of been something to do with that man of the iron?"
…
The night had come and gone. Not once had they stopped traveling through the countless hours that passed. It was strange in a way, he didn't feel all that tired. Did this have something to do with his current state? It was something questioning regardless. He looked to the one who continued to pave the way, not noting a single sign of wear in his form.
They had barely spoken since their last conversation, leaving him to weigh on if he should in fact come forward with the truth. There was still much to be considered with such a move. Would he be believed, and more importantly would there be any advantages to speaking the truth? After a solid time of contemplating the in's and out's he finally came to a decision, one which he hoped would bring a positive impact.
"Hey, I've finally grasped my mind on a decision." Ichigo announced.
A few moments passed with nothing as little as a nod of acknowledgement which prompted him to speak once more.
"Hey, are you even listening?" Ichigo inquired.
"Quite clearly," Tez alerted. "Please do commence."
The tone in his remark while well noted was quickly pushed aside before doing just that.
"My full name is Kurosaki Ichigo, the names of my two friends you witnessed me arrive along with are Inoue Orihime and Ishida Uyruu," Ichigo began. "You were right when you said we weren't from around here, but it's more complex than you may think.. believe it or not we're not even from this world, you can take that for what you want."
Several moments more passed as the two walked, one backed with a certain level of tension.
"So let's say this story of yours is true, what has brought you here, and for what purpose?" Tez asked considering the given.
"To explain that would be for me to go further into who I am." Ichigo explained.
"I'm listening."
"I'm from a place called Earth, my occupation… if you can even call it that is, while not fully of my choice is that of a substitute Shinigami."
This batch of information was enough to stop him in his tracks, leaving Ichigo to do the same.
"Shinigami… you mean like a death god?"
"You're familiar with the term, how," Ichigo asked clearly surprised by this. "Is that something people are aware of around here?"
"That's of little importance," Tez replied now positioning his body in proportion with his own. "You've claimed you're a substitute shinigami, what is that exactly?"
"Well.. umm," Ichigo said rubbing the back of his head at a loss for words. "How do I put it into simple terms.."
"Never mind, we'll get back to that later" Tez stated. "What about cause, were you sent here or did you come here on your own accordance?"
"We were sent by a shinigami by the name of Hitsugaya Tōshirō." Ichigo answered.
"Why?"
"Well what was explained to us was that someone from our world found a means of traveling here, for what reason I do not know," Ichigo informed. "Our mission is simple, to locate and take them back to our world."
"And how do you plan on going about finding this individual?"
"By tracking them through their Reiatsu," Ichigo replied. "According to Captain Hitsugaya their Reiatsu is unusual in comparison to the residents of this world."
"Reiatsu," Tez questioned. "What is that?"
"Oh, that's right there's a different term for it here," Ichigo remembered upon having this asked. "Reiatsu is pretty much like Chakara in some form or another."
"Ok, that makes sense," Tez said. "And I take it you have the ability to sense this irregular energy within the individual you speak of?"
"If all goes according to what was explained to me, then yes." Ichigo replied giving him confirmation with the nod of his head.
".. I see."
He stared him down for seconds, playing back what he analyzed of him.
"There was no hesitation in his voice or words, his eyes remained tuned on me throughout, his sights never strayed diagonally left of point which would have been an indication of falsification," Tez thought to himself. "Either Kurosaki is solid in mounting together a well-constructed and performed lie or he's telling the truth… which is it?"
He looked him in the eyes, what he saw was not deceiver but rather an individual who wanted nothing more than resolution which would lead to the truth. It was in that moment that his mind was made.
"Alright, I'll help you find not only your comrades but also this person you speak of." Tez announced.
Being that the hat worn atop his head covered the upper half of his face he was unable to read his expression, leaving him to ask the obvious.
"Does that mean you believe me?"
"As bizarre as your story rings, I'm willing to take a chance," Tez replied. "To this point you've given me no reason not to trust your words."
"That wasn't a yes or a no, but I guess I can settle for that."
"We'll rest here for awhile," Tez said looking over the shaded area surrounded by several trees. "We've traveled a substantial as it already is."
"I can't argue with that."
"Before we get too eased back there's one last thing we need to touch base on, as I said before there's something I'd like from you in return for my added services on your journey." Tez reminded.
"Yes, of course," Ichigo nodded. "Just speak the word."
"It's time you learned what truly brought about my travels away from the Land of Iron to this region," Tez began. "I want you to help me to hunt someone as well… a killer, or possibly killers."
"What," Ichigo spoke becoming attentive as ever to what was being relayed. "Does this.. group of killers have a name?"
"Yes, one handed to them due to public perception of their acts till this point," Tez replied pleased to report. "Their given name, the 'Shadow Revenants'."
"A revenant… as in a ghost," Ichigo questioned. "If that is true, how are we supposed to find what we might not be able to even see."
"The given name to the killers is symbolic based from circumstances," Tez explained. "No living witness got a glimpse of their attacker, even after analyzing evidence no one has been able to determine who or what orchestrated each attack, thus a resulting belief of a ghost."
This information alone was enough to get him listening.
"Any insight to who is being targeted in particular?"
"None whatsoever, these attacks as far as anyone can tell are at random," Tez answered as he turned away and looked to the sky above. "There seems to be no honest barring as to why or who will be death listed, but make no mistake I will find them."
"You seem so sure of this."
"As I declared at the scene in Tanigakure before the truth was ultimately revealed," Tez rehashed with a brief pause. "Every Mystery has an expiration."
He said nothing more. There was nothing he could think to say in response to this, bringing about another period of silence between the two.
….
A strong effort was made by all who made their way up the mountainside. It wasn't just another typical trail to walk, there was a level of pride that became evident early on. What they came to be forewarned of came into fruition in full. Through their journey in reaching the top they encountered several obstacles, ranging from falling boulders to igniting explosives that had clearly been set beforehand.
No matter the obstacle that presented itself they found a way to persevere. Before they knew it they had finally reached the top, leaving them all with a feeling which had not quite reached fulfillment. There was nothing to find but a large empty space.
"So much for that twenty four hour pitch," Metallo remarked being the first to look off the side of the mountain. "We topped this thing in just over nine hours."
"Paving the way here was child's play," Mirror Master chose to add. "If this was supposed to be some major test then consider me less than impressed."
"An inept attempt at a challenge," Medusa stated. "My patience is now dwindling into being tested."
"You're not the only one."
"So we were called to gather at the top of this mountain, so where is our handy host?" Metallo said voicing a level of sarcasm.
No sooner after speaking this did it take for a whisper to be heard, one which carried in tune with the wind.
"I'm over here."
The three of them turned around to find not a single person.
"What is this, some kind of game?" Medusa hissed in growing disgust.
"No, I'm over here." The voice pitched from where they had been looking before.
They turned back to look and in the blink of an eye the surrounding area altered completely. Instead of being on the top of a mountain they were now in a darkened, a change which startled most. The only thing providing light was the few torches that hung aside the walls.
"What the hell just happened?" Mirror Master questioned.
"It appears we've changed scenery," Lady Shiva said exploring the area that now clothed them. "To some kind of cave from what I'm able to make out."
"But how did we end up here?"
"Isn't it simple, you arrived here by logical means," A voice spoke right of them all. "Through natural travel."
All eyes immediately shifted that way to find the shadow of a figure standing in a dark corner.
"It's you, your voice is the one we heard at the bottom of the mountainside." Lady Shiva pointed directly at him.
"Correction, forest," The hidden individual said in response. "The mountain side perceived falsely through all of your eyes was nothing more than illusion."
"What?"
"Yes, the move was intentional, you followed a path which you believed required you to ascend up a mountain when in fact you've been traveling on ground level toward this cave for the past several hours," He informed. "I did this only because of the uncertainty of all of your willingness to agree to my terms, I couldn't have you knowing of the location of this place without you all fully falling in compliance with what I have to offer."
"You manipulating son of a." Metallo began only to be cut off.
"Ahem, language please," The man within the shadows kindly gestured with the snap of his finger. "If we are to build a healthy working relationship that is something that must remain on a clean slate."
"Just who the hell are you," Metallo shouted in a commanding tone. "Step forward mystery clown!"
Even through the darkness the grin could be seen upon his face. He complied with what was asked of him, taking two large steps forward which brought him into visibility of them all.
"Don't mistake me with one of jokes for I am no clown, and from here on out you will all refer to me as Captain," He smilingly announced with his devilish grin only widening. "Captain Aizen."
To Be Continued