Okay, I'm a little nervous about this chapter, since it's my first go at an entire fight sequence. I tried to stay true to the anime and manga's style of combat; a lot of trap-laying, plenty of tension between bouts and always second-guessing everyone's plans. I hope you'll enjoy, it anyways!
Kishimoto is the lucky bugger for having the brain-wave of a young, ADHD ninja fighting evil, and thus I admit he owns the right to the series :(
A rule of thumb when handling Genjutsu was to simply question the logic of the reality one had been thrust into. Fortunately, only a minute had transpired in Kisame's short assault. Therefore the extent of the Genjutsu could not have been in effect for anymore than fifty-nine seconds – that is, assuming; Sarutobi's bitch became aware of him during the initial attack. Rational thought was required here.
This Kunoichi was never elected for special services; based on intelligence on ANBU, she never qualified for their level of expertises; thus her level of combat was limited. She was pregnant and has lost her lover in a previous mission. Her mastery of Genjutsu states she isn't fortified for Taijutsu, therefore reaction time would be more akin to Chunin than Jonin like Hatake. Taking these facts into account told Kisame a lot about Kurenai. Each fact complimented the theory that her casting of the Genjutsu wasn't in the first five, nay, ten seconds. Chakra needed for it would be difficult to accumulate when she harbours a baby – too much pressure could kill it, and all evidence in her speech and movements support the theory she is sentimental and protective of it – what mother wouldn't be?
The father of her child was slain by his accomplice; and he noted these Leaf Ninja weren't the most composed and clear minded – that had to be effecting her better judgement, thus slowing her initiative. All facts pointed to Kurenai's lack of speed. He decided the Genjutsu took place in over thirty seconds. This is where he knew he had at least secured her death. Her assessment and actions against him took over thirty seconds. The realisation of this all occurred to him within three seconds.
Looking down he saw the wretched, petite figure of the Hyuga girl, and then to the two Kunai she hit him with. Laughing, he thought it unusual that these two toys would have hit him, in a nerve no less, and yet there was nowhere near enough blood to signal the wound was real. She hadn't enough knowledge of anatomy – thus confirming her lack of ANBU training.
"Hehe, I hope the lack of blood is simply a mistake on your part; a vain or artery located here," He pointed to the Kunai on his arm, "would excrete far more blood than what I'm pouring. Or, perhaps I've stumbled upon an innate fear…"
In the distance, Kurenai unconsciously gripped a branch she was sitting on tight at this, fear? What of?
"I heard your Hokage had hemophobia, a lot of irrational women suffer from it – trauma from war and what not. Tell me; looking at the lack of blood you've employed, do you really want that child? It'll be a lot gorier than this!" He wrenched out the Kunai and it faded away, along with his wound.
Kurenai growled, because the bastard had hit a nerve. Just then, as she was about to lunge forwards, they both heard a voice.
"You're…wrong…" Came a timid retort from Hinata, struggling to her feet.
Kurenai turned to Hinata for a moment, as Kisame spat onto the floor in disgust; he heard the footsteps of the reinforcements draw closer. Perhaps this girl would be more useful than he thought.
"Kurenai-Sensei…isn't afraid of having…her baby…she only fears it may…meet monsters like…you -" another sucker punch to her stomach and Hinata was floored again. Kurenai's grip on the branch tightened further. There. He heard it. Genjutsu or none, the hysterical bitch had just revealed her position. He didn't fear that she was luring him into a trap; he knew she was the one making the mistakes here.
Weaving between the trees, Kurenai was slow to react when she saw the colossal figure bear down from above her. Leaping backwards, strands of her hair were diced as his blade swung low. And then, that was all the motion he made. Kisame stood there growling, but did nothing more.
Kurenai contemplated whether this guy's time with Itachi had meant he learnt Genjutsu too, was this a part of his?
"Gotchya." A victoriously calm voice sniggered from behind Kisame. Kurenai's shock turned into a smile. He really was good.
Stepping out of the trees, Shikamaru stood coolly before both of them, his shadow extended all the way to Kisame's.
Kurenai released her Genjutsu, and moved to Hinata, lifting her gently to her feet.
"Shadow Possession Jutsu, Complete, huh?" She laughed.
"Hey! There's one thing I don't let anyone do, and that's complete my catchphrase, it's so…"
"Troublesome…" Hinata sighed, also laughing.
Shikamaru produced a sweat drop and scratched the back of his head in embarrassment, was he so predictable?
Several other Jonin and Chunin also emerged, weapons brandished and pointed towards the captured Kisame.
"You may be predictable, Shikamaru, but this guy here, he's just too damn easy to read." One mocked, as the growling beast cursed at them.
Pacing forwards, Shikamaru maintained his cool disposition up until he walked through another puddle.
Groaning as the water splashed up his leg, Shikamaru shivered, much to Hinata's and Kurenai's amusement.
"Damn rain, (and I was looking so cool as well)", he walked further forwards, his prisoner mimicking it.
The two became so close together, mere centimetres separated them, yet Shikamaru was content with the fact his opponent couldn't do a thing.
"You think you're pretty smart, eh? You don't know how much shit you've walked into." Kisame growled.
"Oh?" Shikamaru looked up into the cloud-covered sky and sighed, "You know, I met two other guys wearing your colours. Yeah, some money-hungry freak and his sick son-of-a-bitch friend with the scythe."
"So you were a part of that squad huh? I can smell Sarutobi's smoke on you too, his pupil huh?" Kisame showed no emotion.
"Yeah, I'm the one who blew that death-preacher to pieces. Trust me, I've seen it first-hand now; you guys are nothing special."
Kisame still remained composed.
"Now tell me, why are you here?" Shikamaru asked.
"To kill." Was the plain yet twisted reply.
Shikamaru glanced at two medical nin whom were treating the wounded and dead in Kurenai's border team, "…I can see that. Why are you killing our men?" He turned back to the prisoner.
"Because you're out to kill me. Personally I think you guys are a tad high and mighty; the hit squad told me enough, but I'd recommend doing more homework on your target before striking like that."
Shikamaru leaned in close so they were practically touching.
"You, I and the Hokage know you didn't try anything in the Land of Greens, so don't try and feed me some crap about who struck first. We've sent no hit squad, so either you're lying or there is a third party involved. I'm guessing it's the latter, why chase after us?"
Kisame remained silent.
"In encountering your other allies, I'm aware you move in two-man cells. Where's Itachi Uchiha?"
At this the other Chunin tensed and immediately began to look around, in fear of being struck down at any second.
"Hehe, I dunno. I left him for dead a day ago. I'm working solo now." Upon hearing this, Shikamaru noticed his attire lacked the trademark black cloak.
"Now…it's my turn for questions, but these are directed to you all. This shadow doesn't stop my sense of awareness; I can tell there are no more ninja for a few miles. So I've got all of you in this one clearing – well, minus the three ANBU above us to the west, watching from the trees."
At this everyone turned, as a few leaves scattered. Kurenai turned to Shikamaru.
"Did you know?" She asked.
"Grrr, Root…" He spat. Kisame gave a laugh.
"I'm guessing there is friction in the ranks. I can relate to that! Now on to my question, whom do you value the most here?"
Silence followed as Shikamaru stared on in perplexity.
"I'll ask again, whom do you value the most here?" When no one responded he laughed again.
"Okay, okay. I'll take it you don't follow. Before me; is an ingenious tactician and true Konoha Shinobi. He's even managed to ensnare me and I do accept his claims that he killed Hidan. Surely the village must value such a prestigious ninja."
Everyone stared at Shikamaru who didn't move, yet felt foreboding stirring in his gut.
"Now, you also have a Jonin, with a splendid mastery of Genjutsu; as beautiful as she is fiery. Calm on most occasions, her only current fault is her nurturing of her unborn babe, whom I am guessing is son to a Ninja Guardian and Honourable Grandchild to the Third."
Kurenai did react; with a small swear word, only making her opponent laugh louder.
"And finally, a delicate heir to the Hyuga Clan. Her Kekkei Genkai alone should be of enough worth for you all to throw down your lives."
Hinata gasped, as everyone continued to stare at Kisame, until one Chunin finally spoke.
"Oh No! He's talking about Itachi! Everyone! Watch yourselves!" All but Shikamaru created a perimeter.
"You idiot! Itachi isn't here. This is all me. Now I'll ask you all one last time, whom do you value the most here?"
When he received no response, he sighed.
"Very well then." He grinned as Shikamaru gave a cry and his shadow broke. Everyone jumped in disbelief as Shikamaru stood struggling to stay conscious as the horrific figure of Kisame wrapped his arm around the young ninja's neck, snapping Shikamaru's left arm in the process.
Hinata and Kurenai couldn't contemplate what happened, how did he break free from the shadow?
"I guess I'll start with this little punk."
Weapons brandished again, the ninja ordered Kisame to release him, lest he suffer the sharp consequences.
"H-how did you…" Hinata began.
"What? Broke free? I'll let you figure that out." Kisame hissed. Two Jonin stepped closer to the right, drawing attention to themselves as they stepped onto another puddle.
"I wouldn't do that…" Kisame warned.
Shikamaru's vision was fading but he saw this too. He fought to say the words, but couldn't gather any air. It was the puddles.
At that moment, he realised it was too late. He heard the screams from the two Jonin as they fell to their deaths. Not even a second was spent on Kisame's water clone emerging from the puddle. Kurenai took this opportunity to attack Shikamaru's hostage, whom vanished upon impact, leaving the Chunin unconscious.
"Of course, the puddle Shikamaru stepped on…he planned this all along, but when?" She asked.
"Hahahaha! When you looked at your pathetic little student after she managed to stand back up. I took the time to make a few reinforcements with the water, you've captured nothing but a water clone, clever little Konoha rats!" Kisame's voice carried through the clearing from outside it; the real one never reached her.
"If you count the jumped-up little shit there, I've managed to remove three from my list of opponents, I'm counting six of you left. Who will I get next?"
Everyone tensed, as fear spread across each of them. The wait was unbearable.
"Oh, and by the way, I wouldn't wait too long before making a move; I've got more than two water clones in this forest, a lot more…watch your step."
Despite his warnings, no action was taken against his hostages. Kurenai had noted that at least half an hour had elapsed since Kisame had provoked them to leave the clearing. Having said this, none of the ninja dared to make any movement to their fallen comrades –except Hinata, whom was nurturing the unconscious Shikamaru. Shaking slightly, Kurenai felt that the helplessness of the situation must be getting to her, she was always more delicate than a ninja should be.
"…Hinata…" She whispered softly. The response Hinata gave wasn't directed at her, it was aimed at the villain within the forest.
"Tell me; what happened to Hanabi!" She cried. Everyone was taken aback. Kurenai then recalled Kisame mentioning a Hyuga he'd previously met, though she chalked it up to a branch family member – Neji perhaps.
"…hehe…perhaps I don't want to tell you…" His voice echoed through the ears of each ninja, every syllable inducing traumatic fear. Hinata stifled a cry.
"T-tell me she's alright. How did y-you find her?" Through the hysteria, Hinata couldn't find a possible reason for Kisame coming across her sister.
"She was with her little Romeo, eating pickles as I recall." Kisame felt compelled to amuse himself by torturing Hinata.
"R-Romeo? who?" She asked, glancing through her memories; Hanabi never mentioned any boys.
"Aha! I believe the boy was a Sarutobi – the irony is poetic, don't you think?" At this statement, Kurenai growled. She had taken a shine to Asuma's nephew since his youth. He had the same eyes as his uncle, the same passion. After his death, Kurenai noted Konohamaru's admiration to the Third increase ten-fold. She and Asuma would often come across him and his friends chasing Naruto. But she too had no idea he had an eye for Hanabi.
"That's a load of crap! You broke through our border today; attacked us and declared you left Akatsuki! Are you trying to tell us that before all that, you'd infiltrated the country and attacked our village? Give me a break!" Kurenai spat, the statement instilling a little more confidence in Hinata. Armed with this truth, she began to doubt Kisame's story, though his response undid all that.
"Didn't you know? They were outside the border. I don't know what you're doing sending Genin out during a time like this, but their amateur attempt of concealing themselves from us was so pathetic, I felt like weeping."
Who authorised that? On one hand, Kurenai could have just reinforced the argument that Kisame was just messing with their heads; he purposely preyed on her – a pregnant woman – by mentioning a loved one, whilst doing the same thing to the weakest minded of us. But how did he know Hinata had a sister? How did he know there was a young Sarutobi? Was it mere guesswork? Could he have been so lucky?
Hinata maintained a strained silence, but everyone could see tears begin to trickle down her pale cheeks; her usually pearl-esque eyes were bloodshot as she simply stared into the distance. Kurenai thought it best not to provoke Kisame much further. She could feel the unrest from the rest of the company. If he chose to strike, there was too much evidence that none of them would survive.
Minutes crawled along, and it became painfully obvious to the Chunin and Jonin that there would be no backup. The thought of the Root ANBU gathering further reinforcements was ludicrous. No doubt they would still be watching. No doubt they would still be waiting. No doubt they'd let them all die. The reality of this fate was becoming more apparent on the faces of her comrades. She glanced at Shikamaru, praying the boy would awaken. Now, more than ever, would they need some tactical support.
Meer metres away, Kisame didn't wish to reveal it, but felt just as trapped as his hostages. For he was aware of one more ANBU 150 metres to the right of him. The ninja – a male by his anatomy – hadn't come with any backup. He was alone, yet his heartbeats trickled through the ground, microscopic ripples through the puddles told him the man was calm, very calm. He'd observed Kisame's attack on the group, and had used that time to gain a crucial advantage. Kisame was far more suited at close-combat, but at 150 metres, this ninja was well out of his range, plus his movements between the trees, and his speed suggested he could keep that distance for a while.
The fact this ninja hadn't fled for backup meant he was confident enough to take him on at a distance. More than once Kisame felt the hairs on the back of his neck stick up as if he was being read at every moment. The ANBU's movements were symmetrical to his as the crept through the trees, all the while keeping the same distance and angle. How was he doing this? He felt like this before…it was then that it struck him!
Three, possibly four men could do this to him. One, he ruled out due to his age and lack of military training. The second could very well do this, but had no motive nor style to watch him from a distance – he knew that much from working underneath said ninja. The third and fourth option were the most likely; both were surely in the border facility, both possessed the ability, both were ANBU, both would opt to face him alone. The question was; which one was it?
Itachi would still need to recover, thus the activation of the second stage wouldn't be practical in this forest; he may be scoping him from a distance and using his regular Sharingan to find a golden moment. If this was so, he questioned the value of keeping his hostages alive – they'd be of little worth to his former ally, but he wondered at how fast Itachi could have kept up with him. That left Kakashi. If it were him, then why was he not a part of the reinforcements before? Kakashi was a professional, true, but he wouldn't risk too many casualties. What if Kisame was unhinged? What if this was a suicide mission? He would have subsequently cost the village many lives. Would he really sit this one out?
The pros and cons were equal. It could be either. But the result was the same; if he struck the group, he'd have to suffer the wrath of his watcher. Conversely, striking out at the ANBU would raise the attention of the hostages – afraid or not, they were all trained enough to scatter efficiently should the situation arise. Kisame mused. He supposed no matter who was watching him, they wouldn't have been there for long; were they aware of the water clones in the puddles? If he navigated his predator far enough, would he activate his 'traps'? With little choice in the matter, he decided to do this. At the very least, it could reveal who he was.
Step by step, he lured the man closer to several puddles across the ground. He kept his movements precise, he imitated the movements of one circling his prey. The plan seemed to be working; every moment brought him closer to his death. But then;
"There's a man!" Shouted Hinata. Her eyes were strained, her bloodline limit was activated. Sure enough in the distance was the outline Kisame's stalker, whom froze at the mention of his presence. Kisame sighed. The game had changed. All three would now be aware of one another; hostages, captor, and stalker. This left both men outside with a choice. If the stalker kept secret, he could be assumed as an enemy – indeed, if it was Itachi, then he would most definitely be targeted. Yet if he goes to help the others so soon, he'd lose any advantage he had. Only four minutes had transpired since Kisame began to lure him to the puddles, perhaps there was still time-
"Watch out! The puddles are water clones!" Hinata cried.
"Little Bitch!" Kisame roared. He went for broke, what did he care? If the ANBU wanted to try it, then let him. He'd be done with these fools soon enough and move along the border. He'd wasted enough time here already. As he dashed into the clearing, the consequential actions happened in a blur. He opted to attack the Hyuga girl first; she'd die for her annoyance. His strike was going to kill, but he never anticipated the young girl was adept in lighting elements. He felt frightful pain course through his stomach as he was thrown backwards into the forest. Looking down, his stomach was sliced open as the forest sprang alive with cries of birds.
Hinata Hyuga did not stand before him – Kakashi Hatake did.
"H-how!" He gasped.
"…the guy watching you was Shikamaru. I knew you'd question the use of Sharingan, since you've had to live with its influence for some time - Despite you're notoriety you're movements are predictable. I transformed into him before you entered the clearing. When you began to watch your stalker, Hinata and I then switched places – didn't you question why she stopped asking about her sister?"
Kisame struggled to stand until Kakashi's foot pressed into the wound, resulting in a piercing scream.
"That reminds me Hinata. What he said about your sister is true enough." Shikamaru spoke, approaching.
"The Hokage sent them to investigate the Land of Greens, but I doubt Kisame killed them. He would have said as much by now, he knows it would do maximum emotional damage. Have faith in her." He said, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder.
Kisame lay beneath Kakashi's foot, groaning in pain and anger. Kakashi then turned in shock when he noticed his opponent make a single hand-sign. The ground around them thundered as it awoke with Water Clones – Kisame had unleashed them all.
"I-insurance policy, y'know?" He laughed, as one clone launched at Kakashi. Pandemonium engulfed the forest, as each ninja fought off the clones. Traps had now been fully revealed, no more secrets or hidden tricks. The brawl was large and loud.
The only fact unbeknownst to most of the fighters was the observing slug that was accompanying Kakashi before the fight. On Kakashi's orders, she was to remain there whilst he had the upper hand in the conflict. With the resulting fight, she decided now was the time to inform the Hokage. She appeared again on the desk of her master, catching the tail end of another heated discussion between Tsunade and Danzo.
"I can assure you I have no connection to this scandal -" Danzo was cut off by the appearance of Katsuyu.
"Milady! Milady!" She cried.
"What!" Tsunade roared, she didn't need to be interrupted with Danzo on the ropes.
"We've an emergency Milady. Our borders have been attack!"
Both Shinobi froze; Tsunade could have sworn Danzo even flicked a small grin.
"Attacked? By who?" Tsunade asked.
"Unconfirmed reports state it is Kisame Hoshigaki!"
Well? The fight is going to spill over deep into the next chapter, as any manga fan will tell you Kisame doesn't lose that easily, and neither does Kakashi! Review if you think this needs tweaking, or if you like what you saw!