Alright chapter 1 came out pretty well. I'd like to thank those of you who Favorited/Followed it. I am a little annoyed at the lack of comments on my WWE references but whatever I'll get one eventually. Anyway on to a few matters before I present chapter 2.
First expect coming chapters to be slow during March, for those who don't know that's the release date of Bioshock Infinite and a new DLC for DmC: Devil May Cry. I've pre-ordered Infinite and I very much intend to play the every loving hell out of said game. So I will be busy playing that, as for DmC the release date for its DLC is earlier in the month so I'll be playing that before I get Bioshock later in the month. So I'll try to do some typing but you most likely won't see chapter 3 till April, sorry in advance.
Now one last thing before the disclaimer: Shout-Outs...I will pick my favorite 2 out of the reviews I get per-chapter.
Undrneath: I'd like to personally thank you for not only following my simple request and writing a nice and literate review, but for also being my first reviewer. I will say your opinions are taken into consideration, and honestly I can understand your thoughts on Naru being with older women. Rest assure he isn't getting with any above Anko's age. Now mind you I'm not saying Anko is a pre-chosen one. And I will neither confirm or deny Tenten being in it. Though smart guess on your part. Also I can understand your thoughts on Naruto getting with practically any women in those kinds of stories (which I do personally like and read, mind you I embrace my own insanity so that's part of my liking for them). It helps that those authors a lot of the time bring out Naruto's very incredible (in most cases) positive points and attitude, something Kishi seems to be against, to busy being Pro-Uchiha (asshole).
dracohalo117: Now to make this clear first I wanna say, that to me you reviewing (even though I asked for it personally) is a bit of an honor to me. You being an author I've followed for quite sometime since I first came to this site reading Naruto fanfiction, so thank you. Now on to your concerns/inquires, which is of my humor spots. Don't worry too much on them, while they seem to be quite a number of them allow me to inform you and those reading, I am a HUGE fan of the following genres: Adventure, Action, Romance, and Comedy. This fic as its my first will be incorporating ALL of those genres. The main reason is so I can make it easier for me to stay constant on my updates, if I feel I'm bogging myself down with too much action or romance I'll switch it up to some comedy to keep my focus and keep things interesting. And trust me come the Finals there will be a HEAVY increase of Action and Romance...mostly action. Thanks again. Also ALL my humor is fully intended, unless I say otherwise.
Also so my dear friend haye2 doesn't start crying again I'd like to give him a mention for being a good friend and being another driving force for me doing this. Feeling better buddy, if not I got you a present to make it up.*Opens door to reveal Suzume from Sengoku Rance, wearing a maid outfit and holding a cyber cake* Before you ask there BOTH yours...and don't worry about Rance, he's a little shall we say tied up at the moment.
Anyway thanks for the reviews though I hope to get more soon. After all, input from your fanbase can only help one get better, in my mind (unless you're a flaming troll, then I have these for you: t(*^*(t)...enjoy.
Know for the damn disclaimer:...brought to you by my 2nd favorite Gundam Protagonist and reigning Gundam Fight Champion...Domon Kasshu!
Domon Kasshu: Kamen Rider Arashi doesn't own Naruto or anything affiliated with his personal ideas, or me for that matter.
Arashi: Thank you Domon now...
Domon: Hold on what about the fight you promised me for doing this?!
Arashi: Oh right, after this okay?
Domon: Fine.
Arashi: Thank you know hurry up Rain's waiting in the corelander she knows where to go.
*Domon exits stage left*
Arashi: Enjoy!
*Hops into Shadow Gundam and flies off*
PLEASE READ THIS: ALL CHAPTERS HAVE BEEN REVAMPED MINORLY OR MAJORLY!
Speech Key:
"Naruto's Nindo says: I just whooped your ASS!"-Human Speech
"Oh dear"'-Human Thoughts
"And that's the bottom line cause the Nine-Tailed Fox said so!"-Bijuu & Summon Speech
"Oh..."-Bijuu & Summon Thought
"Read Between the Lines no Jutsu"-Jutsu Spoken
"Stunner no Jutsu"-Jutsu Thought
Sword of Asskicking and Armor of Badassness-Weapon or Unique Tool Names
The Bijuu Armors
Chapter 2: Plans and Surprises
-Konoha Training Grounds-
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" once again we find the relatively calm and quiet (as quiet as a morning city can be) broken by the high-pitched screams of Konoha's Self-Proclaimed Super Pervert. Said pervert currently hold his package while crying on the ground. Reason being well his newest apprentice not liking the early idea of being thrown over a seemingly bottomless canyon would make sense. At least to everyone but Jiraiya.
"That was for yesterday Pervy-Sage," said are blonde hero currently standing over said sage. After resting for a little while said sage, with some difficulty, climbed to his feet and moved to sit down for a moment to heal his sore groin. "Okay, I might have deserved that" was the first words from Jiraiya. "Damn right you did," muttered Naruto feeling much better after delivering said divine punishment.
"Alright, okay now since you proved yourself worthy to Gamabunta and were able to summon him I guess we can move on to something else to train in while every so often going back to summoning, hows that sound gaki?" asked Jiraiya. "Fine I was going to ask you for some training in Fuinjutsu anyway actually." stated Naruto. Hearing his apprentices request he looked at him with a touch of surprise, "Really, huh figured you be asking for Ninjutsu or Taijutsu," remarked Jiraiya. "Any particular reasons why?" asked the Toad Sage. "Well I figured I got this giant ass seal on my stomach I'd kinda like to learn more on the field since sealing is kinda a major factor in my life since birth" Naruto retorted with a noticeable amount of annoyance in his voice.
Noted his tone Jiraiya was quick to agree, saying he'd start on that in a bit only to be cut off by Naruto. "You think you could instead train me in Fuinjutsu while I head over to the hospital instead?" questioned Naruto. Jiraiya hearing his idea was of course confused, "Ummm, Naruto you do realize I'd have to train you so you can't go to the hospital at the same time." said Jiraiya with an expression that could be read as 'are you an idiot?'.
Seeing the expression Naruto quickly made a Kage Bunshin and while pointing at it said "No your train this Naruto in Fuinjutsu, while I head to the hospital to go see a friend." Realizing Naruto meant to use the memory ability from his Kage Bunshin's he asked for him to make a few more while stated he'd see him back here around lunch time. Nodding his head and making four more Bunshins, both sensei and student parted ways. One to the hospital to see about his newest project and one to train some clones in Fuinjutsu.
-10 Minutes later, Konoha Hospital-
Walking up to the entrance Naruto headed up to the reception desk only to spot one of the people Naruto needed to see already walking off. "Gai-sensei, hey wait!" called Naruto seeing the spandex wearing Jounin about to walk off. Hearing his named called, Gai turned to see Naruto walking up to him. "YOSH! Hello Naruto-kun, might I ask why you are looking for me on this Youthful Day!" shouted Gai, only to be given the stink eye from the receptionist for his loud voice. Quickly lowering his volume so as not to be thrown out Gai said, "Um sorry, yes Naruto is there something I can do for you?".
Seeing he had Gai's attention Naruto brought up the question Kyuubi mentioned to him the other day. "Hey umm, Gai-sensei I was wondering does your student Tenten happen to work at a ninja weapon shop or smithy?" questioned Naruto. Guessing where this was going Gai said, "Yes she does, I can assume you're asking so as to get some new equipment before the Finals, yes?" he said with a questioning look. "Yeah, I'm gonna need some really high-grade stuff for some things I'm working on, and I figured with all the weapons she used during her match in the prelims she might either know or work at a shop" said Naruto with a curious look on his face.
"I see well if that's the case I would have no problem taking you there after I stop in to see Lee, if that's not a problem?" asked Konoha's Green Beast. "No that's fine, I was going to see Lee while I was here anyway." said Naruto while giving a sad smile, remembering the damage Lee suffered at the hands of Gaara. "Yosh! Your Flames of Youth indeed burn brightly to come and see an injured comrade Naruto-kun!" yelled Maito Gai while giving his patented Good Guy pose (sparkling teeth included).
Twitching a little at the poses Naruto quickly suggested seeing Lee before the nurses kicked Gai out for shouting again while hearing Kyuubi in his mind shouting, "AHHHHH! My eyes, what is that thing kit?!", 'Its just Gai-sensei and where have you been you haven't said a thing since breakfast?' questioned Naruto, while trying to keep from giving any hints to his inner conversation. "I've been going over some more ideas for the armor, mostly finalizing anything we went over last night" Kyuubi stated, who was currently looking over a massive blueprint of the armor in Naruto's mind.
Thinking back on last nights events Naruto recalled his and Kyuubi's design ideas for the armor as Naruto slept. The came across several ideas, most concerning the process of how to match each armor piece for one of Kyuubi's tails. After many hours the basic designs were done. They currently mapped out that a set amount of Kyuubi's chakra would be focused on a single piece of armor. The equivalent of Naruto drawing forth a tail of chakra would be one piece of armor per chakra tail, thereby making it nine pieces of armor, with one tail per piece.
They decided on the unlocking feature to be the following: 1st Tail=Right Gauntlet, 2nd Tail=Left Gauntlet, 3rd Tail=Armored Boots and Greaves(Both Legs), 4th Tail=Chausses(Both Upper Thighs connects to Boots), 5th Tail=Pauldrons(Both Arms, connects to Gauntlets), 6th Tail=Armored Belt, 7th Tail=Chest Armor(Connects with belt to connect arms and leg armor together), 8th Tail=Helmet(Covers entire head and neck), 9th Tail=Unique Attachment(Cloak, cape, mantel, etc). The last part was inconclusive at the moment so Naruto and Kyuubi decided to let that one be left up for a later attachment.
"Naruto!" yelled on Rock Lee, looking around Naruto quickly sweat dropped. "I really need to pay more attention to my surroundings," thought Naruto. It seemed during his recollection of his armor design plans with Kyuubi, he and Gai made it to Lee's hospital room. "Oh sorry Lee, I was a bit pre-occupied with my thoughts at the moment" said Naruto while scratching the back of his head and smiling.
-Sometime Later-
We find Naruto following Maito Gai outside the hospital and heading towards, what Naruto assumed, was Tenten's shop. After walking for a good couple of minutes we find our hero and his guide outside a plain and non-descriptive shop between the Ninja District and Civilian District. Naruto was about to mention it before Gai cut him off, "I know the place seems pretty plain Naruto-kun but I can assure you that this shop is the go-to for any decent and acknowledged ninja," said a surprisingly serious Gai. Only to ruin it by following up with, "Yosh, know let us stroke the Flames of Youth in you Naruto-kun with some new equipment!" shouted an excited Gai.
Sweatdropping at the overly excited Jounin Naruto followed him inside...only for his jaw to drop through the floor at the amount of armor, weapons, and standard ninja equipment lining the walls and in racks around the floor. Hell even the ceiling had ninja stuff of all kinds hanging from it and on high-rise displays. Hearing the sound of people chuckling he turned to see Gai, Tenten, and an as of yet unknown man ('Probably the owner' Naruto thought) looking in his direction. Walking over to the trio he got a good look at the man. He wore a dirty tan long-sleeved shirt covered by an even dirtier brown smock, a pair of loose black pants, and on his feet heavy-duty boots. Regardless of his rather plain outfit the man was all but plain-looking, he had a rather angular face with a well-kept beard and sharp brown eyes ('The same shade as Tenten's, must be related' thought Naruto). To top it off he had a very muscular build and short straight black hair.(1)
"So Gai is there a reason for you stopping by with the kid? I already re-supplied you with your usual gear last week, so I know you can't have run out yet." questioned the large man. "No, I'm still quite alright Dustin. I actually came to help Naruto-kun here get some new supplies." answered Gai with his signature pose. Sweatdropping at her sensei's actions Tenten turned to Naruto who was checking out several pieces of armor on the wall. "Interested in armor? You know that stuff won't protect you from Neji-kun right?" said Tenten with a bit of an arrogant tone and smirk on her face.
"Well you never know besides it doesn't say anything good for you if you can stand there and belittle me yet not only am I in the Finals, something you aren't, but I'm also fighting for Hinata. Someone your teammate almost killed who happens to be his own family." stated Naruto with a bit of venom in his voice while looking at Tenten with an angry expression on his face. Hearing his Dustin looked at his daughter with no amount of disappointment on his face and in his words, "Tenten you never told me that part of the prelims, why," Dustin questioned with a little bit of anger.
Realizing she was put on the spot and how her words came out Tenten quickly said, "Sorry, I guess that came out kinda mean. I didn't mean to offend you I guess I'm just not use to Neji-kun acting so terrible is all." Seeing she did seem apologetic Naruto said, "Its fine," though if one listened close enough they could tell Naruto was by no means truly accepting of Tenten's apology. Trying to break the uncomfortable silence in his shop Dustin turned to Naruto and decided to ask what he was looking for. "Well I actually wanted to ask if you had any high-grade chakra metal, I need quite a bit for a project I'm working on." asked Naruto.
"We have quite a bit of the stuff, but its really expensive. I don't think you would have the funds to buy enough to make even a single gauntlet made of the metal." said Dustin in an apologetic tone. Realizing he forgot he most likely didn't have the money to pay for the armor Naruto was quick to start panicking only for Kyuubi to cut in on this thoughts, "KIT! Calm down I realized you might not have the necessary money already." Hearing this Naruto was of course not happy, "What do you mean you already knew this, why didn't you tell me before?!" thought Naruto, who started to get a bit angry at the lack of forethought on the Kyuubi's part. "Like I said, CALM DOWN! There's an easy way around this now repeat what I'm about to tell you to this Dustin" stated Kyuubi.
Back on the outside Naruto seeing the looks he was getting quickly repeated Kyuubi's words, "Look I know I don't have the money but is there a way I could work out some kinda plan with you like...say working for you to pay off the ryou I'll need to pay you for the metal?" asked Naruto in a humbled tone, while lowering his head. Hearing Naruto's proposition Dustin gave it a bit of thought, 'Hmmmmmm, well I could always use another pair of hands around here, and if what Iruka and Gai have told me of the boy is true he's a very hard worker, I guess it could hurt to give it a try.' Coming to a decision Dustin looked at Naruto with a stern look upon his face, "Alright here's the deal I'll agree to letting you work here if you pass a test. If you pass it I'll hire you and we can work out you paying through your work here on the metal. If you fail we'll instead work out a payment plan that has you paying me back over an extended period of time with the money you make through missions. Hows that sound to you?" asked Dustin.
Tenten looked at her dad in surprise, "You're not really thinking of having him work here dad?" asked Tenten. Looking over at his daughter he said, "Of course I am, with you being an active kunoichi for over a year know I've been slowly falling behind on my jobs, with an extra hand I'd hopefully get back on track without having to hire a worker and pay at the same time. Working this deal with Naruto gives me a chance to hire an extra hand without technically paying him." stated a straight-faced Dustin. Looking back at Naruto he saw a determined face looking right back at him, "Challenged accepted!" where the next words from our orange dressed hero.(2)
Hearing the words and seeing the determined Jinchuuriki pointing at him put an amused smile on Dustin's face, "Well then lets see what you're made of Gaki. Follow me to the back."
-2 Hours Later-
We know find ourselves standing in Dustin's smithing room. Currently going over a small group of Kunai and Shuriken is said Blacksmith while both Naruto and Tenten wait to the side (Gai having left having to go check on Neji's training at the Hyuuga Compound). The expression 'looking over with a fine toothed comb' did no justice to how much detail and inspection Dustin was giving to the small weapons he had Naruto forge as his test (I think I speak for most of use when I say there is no doubt that blacksmithing in the Naruto 'verse is different so, I'm just guessing here). After what felt like hours for the young Genin, but really only a few minutes, Dustin stepped back and turned to look Naruto right in the eyes.
Noting his nervous expression, though well hidden, Dustin spoke, "While they probably won't be put up for sale", at these words Naruto looked a little down trodden, "I will say for your first time its be better to put them up on a display, your hired." Hearing these words Naruto and Tenten had different responses, "Really, ALRIGHT!" shouted our blonde hero, while our favorite weapon's mistress had this to say, "WHAT, not even MY first weapons got that much praise?! How could his be any better?!" yelled an irate Tenten. Seeing the anger on his daughter's face Dustin quickly reminded her that her first attempt was at the age of 10, and she was his daughter he expected her to be far more better from being around them since birth.
"Musume your first try compared to Naruto's is a totally different story by way of background. While you have my training from your academy days, his was only from his own instincts and the instructions I gave him. The boy has a natural talent for smithing in the same regard your teammate Rock Lee has a natural talent for Taijutsu." Said Dustin with an up most serious expression on his face. Seeing he had their undivided attention he continued, "When Gai preaches his belief on Natural Talent and Hardwork Talent he's very much right. Every person is born with a natural skill or talent at birth in my mind. Some have an interest and work hard at it, while others have a natural attunement to a specific field."
"In your case Tenten while you have a natural-born gift for forging, Naruto has a natural gift of the Hardworker, when he sets his mind to something he gives it over 100% effort regardless of what it is or how hard it maybe. At least that's what Iruka and the Sandaime have told me." stated Dustin. Starting to understand her father's words, Tenten turned to Naruto. "Look, I'm sorry for my earlier words. It was wrong of me and I hope if it isn't too much trouble if we could try again?" asked Tenten with a bit of hope in her eyes. Thinking it over in his mind for a bit Naruto looked back at Tenten, "Sure, apology accepted. However I suggest you not make the same mistake twice, the last thing I wanna deal with while working here is a female Neji, okay," Naruto stated more so then asked of Tenten.
Realizing her earlier remarks where within that territory she quickly nodded her head while agreeing. Seeing the two finished Dustin quickly called back Naruto's attention, "Alright now then with all this out-of-the-way, I've been meaning to ask Naruto what exactly do you need all the metal for and how much as well?" asked Dustin with a curious look on his face. "Well I actually want to keep that a secret but I guess since I'll both being working on it here and using your supplies I can say this much. I'm going to create a unique full body armor that crosses between Ninja and Samurai, while using my special chakra with it." said Naruto, Dustin realizing what he meant by 'special' chakra looked at Naruto with both interest and a little fear. Seeing the fear in his eyes Naruto quickly stated, "But don't worry I'll be having Jiraiya-sensei helping me with that part so you don't have to worry."
Nodding at that since Jiraiya is Konoha's premiere and most acknowledged seal expert, Dustin sighs a little in relief. Before anymore can be said all three hear the doorbell chime, realizing he never fully closed up the shop Dustin heads up front while being followed by the two Genin.
All three come out to see one Jiraiya walking in the shop with a slightly annoyed expression on his face. Seeing the Sannin in the shop Naruto realizes its past 12 and forgot to meet up for lunch with the Sannin.
Seeing his wayward apprentice in Dustin's shop like Maito Gai said he'd be Jiraiya says, "There you are gaki, I've been looking all over for you. If it wasn't for Gai I'd still be searching for you right know." "Sorry Ero-sannin but I was busy with a test of sorts with Tenten's dad here." said Naruto while pointing at said blacksmith. Looking at Dustin Jiraiya quickly smiles, "Good to see your still doing well Dustin. And I'm guessing the young lady here is your daughter Tenten you told me about some time ago." Smiling back at the Toad Sage Dustin replies, "Indeed, its good to see you again to Jiraiya-sama. And yes this is my Tenten-chan." said blacksmith placing a hand on his daughter. Then realizing what Naruto called Jiraiya a second ago, he starts laughing out loud, "HAHAHAHAHA, Ero-sannin, that's a new one. HAHAHAHA!" Remembering what his apprentice called him he quick bops him on the head.
"Ow, what was that for ero-sannin?" yelled Naruto with a look of annoyance, only to get the same look in return. "How many time do I have to tell you not to call me that?!" yelled said angry Perverted Sage. Calming down for a moment Jiraiya decided to ask what Naruto was doing at Dustin's to begin with. "I came to get some new gear and to learn blacksmithing from him," said Naruto. A little surprised at Naruto's newest interest Jiraiya asked, "Not to common a field for an active ninja to be taking, what exactly do you wanna learn it for?" "It's a bit of a secret project that I'll explain later," Naruto stated with a bit of a excited look on his face.
Figuring he won't hear more till later Jiraiya decided to bring up a thought that had come to mind during his search for Naruto earlier. "Hey gaki, I've meant to ask besides Neji and your teammate the Uchiha who else is in the Finals? I ask cause you might need to plan a few things for your later opponents if you beat Neji." stated Jiriaya with a serious look on his face. Realizing the benefit of being prepared for his other future matches Naruto quickly listed off the other matches and his future opponents. "Well first off regardless of what anyone says or believes I am beating Neji. But the other people in the tournament are: my teammate Sasuke, my former classmate Aburame Shino, the team from Suna: Gaara and his siblings Temari and Kankuro, a girl from Kumo named Yugito (3), and an Oto kunoichi named Kin(4)." replied Naruto.
"Hmmmmm, well I'm sure you saw all their matches in the Prelims right?" asked Jiraiya. Receiving a nod from Naruto he continued, "Alright then what's the styles that they all used?" Thinking for a few seconds Naruto replied, "Well I already know how Sasuke fights, and since he's being trained by Kakashi he most likely will focus mostly on Ninjutsu." Getting a nod from Jiraiya Naruto then said, "And Gaara uses his sand for attack and defense while not moving at all, his sister use Wind Jutsu through her fan and his brother uses a puppet. Neji is all Juuken and his Bloodline the Byakugan. Shino relies almost solely on his bugs for combat, and that girl Yugito uses fast Taijutsu and a mix of Fire and Lightning jutsu. The last one Kin uses Genjutsu and her flexibility while relying on senbon more so than kunai or shuriken."
Taking on a thoughtful expression Jiraiya then asked, "This Kin girl who did she beat in the prelims?" Remembering that particular match Naruto said, "My old classmate Shikamaru. Why?" Trying to remember the name Jiraiya's eye widened, "Wait you don't mean Shikamaru Nara, right?" Hearing the surprise in Jiraiya's voice Naruto raised an eyebrow (Naruto obviously doesn't smell what Jiraiya's cooking...I know bad so sue me). "Alright Naruto tell me exactly what happened in that match okay?"
Hearing the shock in his voice and seeing it on his face Naruto began to recount the match from the prelims.
*Arashi hops into the Delorean "Time for a Flashback", shoots off into the past*
-Flashback, Forest of Death Tower, Chuunin Exam Prelims-
Nara Shikamaru vs Tsuchi Kin, *up to the finish*
For all intents and purposes Tsuchi Kin was screwed not only was she completely at the mercy of her opponent's Kage Mane no Jutsu but her main strategy and specialty failed her...at least that's what it looked like to the unassuming viewer, which was actually everybody in the room. You see during their brief fight in the forest Kin noticed two subtle but noteworthy weaknesses to the Nara's jutsu, first he must stay completely focused on his target and secondly he can be overpowered if done correctly.
Now you're probably wondering how one overpowers the jutsu "correctly", well its quite simple really. If one has more strength in a muscle area that trump's another's it's easy to believe that they can overpower the other. A good example would be if one person shows noticeable muscular strength in their arm while another doesn't its right to assume the one that has said muscularity can beat the one without any in an arm wrestling match. Now in the case with Kin she decided, with what little knowledge she had on the Nara, was that because he is in nearly every way the definition of a slacker he most likely doesn't train nearly that much on his physical ability and more on his family jutsu.
Taking that into consideration she uses the natural flexibility she has from being not only female, seeing as female's biologically have more flexibility than males, her kunoichi training, and then the extra training she took in making her body far more flexible than any other kunoichi around her age could have at this point in time. She stretched her back farther than Shikamaru did to not only miss giving herself a very nasty concussion, but also the kunai meant to distract her.
After not hearing a loud thump from his opponent hitting the wall Shikamaru, while looking from between his legs, noticed Kin perfectly fine and still conscious. It was at this point everyone realized that Kin somehow was able to keep herself from going head first into the wall. Quickly getting over his shock the Nara couldn't help but question, "How did you do that?" Deciding to be a bit smug of here clever tactic Kin spoke up, "While you may have control on my body you neglected the fact that since I'm a girl my physical makeup is different from yours. Because of that I wa able to with some difficulty contort my back a bit more to miss the wall." Hearing her explanation and realizing his minor mistake Shikamaru, and those still in the room, stood with widened eyes and some having unhinged jaws (mostly those of the Konoha Jounins and Team 10).
"The best part is if my guess is right, since you certainly seem for all intents to be a total slacker, I highly doubt you'll be able to hold this position much longer while I could probably hold it all day." stated a confident Kin. Coming to the same conclusion Kin had Shikamaru was faced with a dilemma, 'If I realise the jutsu she will be on the attack again and most definitely not fall for the same trick twice. On the other hand I can't hold this position for much longer not to mention I'll use up all my chakra and she will still most definitely still have plenty of her own left...troublesome.' thought our what seemed to be screwed Nara.
Deciding that letting her free and conserving chakra was better than having none, Shikamaru released his jutsu and pulled himself back upwards. Only to notice Kin charging straight at him far quicker than before and in such a way that he wouldn't be able to recapture her, i.e. in a zigzagging pattern.
Once she closed in on him Kin began a fast and interesting Taijutsu assault, in fact it looked like she was dancing and fighting at the same time(5). During this assault Shikamaru was forced completely on the defensive, which is to be expected since as a Clan that's unique jutsu is for support and capture Taijutsu ain't really high on their skill list, However that's when something odd began to happen as there Taijutsu battle continued Shikamaru started, for almost no noticeable reason, to slowdown.
-Stands-
"What's Shika doing, is he tired or something," said a worried Choji. Giving a more focused look at the fight Asuma started to notice something really wrong with the fight, "No, it's not him being tired it's like he's slowing down on purpose." said a shocked Asuma.
-Back to the 'Fight'-
And Asuma was right as they watched on as Shikamaru's reaction time and dodging speed grew slower and slower, almost unnoticeable but by those with more experience. Shikamaru himself noticing his declining speed looked on as Kin continued her assault and scored a heavy spin kick to his cranium. Seeing her opponent down but not out Kin quickly grabbed his left leg and with a quick spin to build momentum dropped her knee hard on the side of Shikamaru's own. What followed as a very loud and pain filled scream as Kin broke Shikamaru's left knee.
With a quick flourish and pounce on her opponents prone body she places a senbon at just behind his ear so that if she wanted could pierce it straight to his brain's bottom lobe. Hayate seeing the situation that the match was in quickly called the match, "Shousa, Tsuchi Kin of Oto!" Hearing her name called and seeing no point in continuing Kin removed herself from Shikamaru's back and walked slowly away. Before she walked up the steps to the ring side walkways she heard her downed opponent call out to her.
"How was it you slowed me down, and don't try lying, I was using my chakra to up my speed but I still was slowing down regardless what was it." questioned an injured Shikamaru. Deciding to be a little smug with her win Kin said nothing but pointed at the senbon with the bells she threw near the beginning of the match. Looking at them for a second he soon realized what it was, "You used the sound made from the bells to cast a second Genjutsu on me to make me slowly lower my reaction time didn't you?" Shikamaru stated more than questioned. Once again not answering Kin just turned around halfway to give a small smirk at him figuring out her subtle tactic.
It was at this point Naruto himself summed up all that just happened with one word, "DAMN!"
-Flashback End- *Arashi returns in the Delorian, "Well that was interesting...raise your hand if you saw that coming"*
Back to the present Naruto having just finished his recap of that match in the prelims to a stunned Jiraiya. "To think she not only out smarted a Nara but followed up with a simple yet effective attack to keep him from getting another chance to fight back. She's a clever one." stated the Sage. Hearing a quick cough from behind them teacher and student turn to realize that during their conversation they forgot about the Arai's(6).
"Well before we get any further off track Jiraiya-sama I still need to set up a work schedule with my newest apprentice." stated Dustin. Understanding this Jiraiya replied, "Well if that's the case let me give you a hand since if he's gonna be not only training with me for the Finals but working under you we'll need to come up with an easy to follow but effective schedule won't we." Nodding at that Dustin had Jiraiya follow him to the front desk to work out an effective schedule for Naruto to use during the rest of the month.
Before leaving with Jiraiya to the front desk Dustin quickly turns to Tenten, "Musume could you take Naruto to the storage room and see if there's any weapons he might have an interest in using outside of his standard kunai and shuriken?" Dustin asked. "Sure tou-san. *turning to Naruto* Follow me to the back Naruto will see if you have an interest in using something new for a change." stated Tenten while leading the young Uzumaki away from the front of the shop.
His curiosity peaked at the apparent insistence of Dustin and Tenten at him using a new weapon, Naruto decided to speak up on his thoughts. "Why is me using something else then my kunai or shuriken seem so important to you and your tou-san Tenten?" questioned Naruto. Quickly understanding his lack of knowledge on her families' trade Tenten stated, "Its usually customary and a sign of acceptance in both my family and in blacksmithing to bequeath to one thats going to learn under the master a weapon previously forged or owned by the master."
Starting to understand the importance Naruto continued following Tenten to the back of the building till they came to a sealed off metal door. Naruto watched as Tenten took a kunai that she had grabbed from the front and lightly cut her hand to spread some of her blood on the door only for a large and complex seal to appear then turn from a dull red color to a soft green before once again fading from sight. "What you just saw is a very strong blood seal a friend of my tou-san's placed on this door and around the whole room to keep people from trying to steal are more rare and treasured weapons." asked Tenten when noticing the confused expression on Naruto's face.
Pushing the door inwards she lead Naruto into a MASSIVE collection of weapons of all shapes and sizes. Tenten turned to Naruto and started talking again, "Alright here is my families prized armory we only allow those who are close to my family or those who are special in some way in here and allow them to have only ONE weapon. You can take your time in here but remember to only take ONE. Okay." she said with a very serious look on her face.
Nodding at her request Naruto slowly but surely looked around the massive collection seeing if any weapon felt right in his hands. After searching for almost half an hour Naruto came across an odd sword hanging in the back. What made it odd is that most he's seen had either a cord or cloth wrap on the hilt but this one was different. It was a simple in appearance katana around 42 inches long from hilt to blade. A circular golden guard in the shape of a coiling dragon. But the most unique feature was the handle. As mentioned above it wasn't either a cord or cloth wrap but instead an ivory dragon with its mouth closed at the end of the hilt(7).
Feeling an odd pull with the katana Naruto grabbed the handle and scabbard and drew the sword. The blade was amazing in its simple appearance being a simple but very well polished steel that looked like it could slice with no trouble through the toughest armor. As he examined the blade Tenten came to check and see if Naruto found anything, upon seeing him holding the katana she said, "Well I guess you did find something after all let me get a...look...at...it..." Hearing Tenten's speech slow, Naruto turned only to see her staring both shocked and amazed at him. Finally getting a little bit under control she quickly asked, "Naruto did you just draw that blade from its sheath."
Not fully understanding whats wrong Naruto said with a confused expression, "Yeah, I did, why?" What followed was a scream that made Naruto fell like it was Sakura he was talking to and not Tenten, "TOU-SAN, COME HERE NOW!" Only a second later did Dustin and Jiraiya come BURSTING into the armory, both looking around and acting as if they were about to be attacked. Seeing his daughter he quickly ran to her to ask what was wrong, only for Tenten to point at Naruto.
Dustin turning to Naruto only to gasp in shock at what he was seeing. Repeating the question Tenten asked earlier, "Naruto did you draw that sword?" Once again Naruto repeated with a yes. As Dustin and Tenten started getting over their shock, Jiraiya decided to ask the question on his and his apprentices mind, "What's the matter Dustin, whats so important about if Naruto drew the katana?" "Jiraiya that katana has been in my family for 5 generation, found by my Great Great Great Grandfather. In that time none in my family have EVER been able to unsheath that blade. We even had others try, and still no one. Heck I even had your former teammate Tsunade-sama give it a try. She used ALL her super strength and it didn't budge at all."
Hearing his explanation Jiraiya too looked at Naruto with a surprised look on his face. During all this Naruto still just stood there holding the katana in his right hand still drawn. Only to hear Kyuubi in his head say, "Kami damn kit you sure are full of surprises aren't you." Naruto could only look at the katana he held in his hands and just wondered what other new surprises awaited him with only one last thought coming to mind, 'This month isn't even over yet.'
CHAPTER END
AN: HAHAHAHAHAHA! Who saw any of that shit happening, pretty interesting no? As a quick heads up I do not hate Shikamaru, I DO however hate how uncreative many people are on this site when it concerns him. When the Chuunin Exam Prelims come around its nearly always the same: Naruto fights either Kiba or someone else (different always), Sakura and Ino (almost NEVER make it unless they are WAY stronger and more integral to the plot), Others are added: Haku, Yugito, The Oto no Go, Kurotsuchi, etc, BUT one thing almost ALWAYS stays the same Shikamaru wins and goes to the finals. Thats bullshit and what makes it worse is unless he gets some NEW power or skill he always wins the same way with his IQ pulling a Naruto win (namely an out of nowhere win). This is fiction folks and yet Shikamaru is almost never heavily needed in the plot yet you still have him win to get into the finals to not win there but still get promoted.
Its annoying to see the same crap over and over and over again. Its one thing if he's needed for the plot but most of the times its just cause no one can seem to think of a better idea compared to canon's, and that's kinda sad.
Anyway I hope everyone enjoys my take on Kin's clever win and appreciate my ingenuity with her plan. For those who still don't fully understand she used the minor rings her bells were making during her capture by Shikamaru to slowly place a minor and slow acting Genjutsu that targeted his mind's perception of speed and his reaction time. Thereby allowing her to make him lose ground slowly. He'd didn't notice it because it was a very slow process and with his lazy and lack of drive in physical training (at least before Shippuuden) he wouldn't notice before its to late.
Also as a quick note give me suggestions for names for the sword if I like it I'll pick it and give you credit for the name, but JUST the name I already have a unique ability for the sword itself.
Now then I'd like to play a quick game for you my readers: what series do you think I will being basing Naruto's 1st armor piece on? Know to explain in detail I would like the name of the weapon or armor and the character that uses it and finally the series they're in. Now I will state that the armors themselves will be each different per-container and only have a basic similar design. They will also while similar to existing ones be unique like having a few spikes here or there or having a change from having a simple samurai helmet to say one that looks like Shukaku's head or something like that.
Also I'd like to get around 10 to 20 reviews by the end of March and this doesn't include my existing reviews. Once again this is for my own knowledge of how I'm doing and to have more drive to update quicker.
Reference Sheet:
1-I'm basing him on Sid Curtis from Fullmetal Alchemist, which is basically what I usually always imagine Tenten's father to look like unless I'm either given another character to base him on mentally or far to different in his character aspect to see him, like the way Tenten's father is described in Eroninja.
2-I want to honestly believe I got some of you guys to laugh at that, personally speaking I felt it was a interesting line to add in.
3-Explanation in next chapter.
4-This is the next middle finger to canon. Since Kishimoto seems to either be a misogynist or not know how to create interesting and good female leads or even characters I'll show him how it's done!
5-I thought it be ver on my part for an Oto-nin to be skilled in the martial arts of Capoeira which is a style focused around music and dancing like movements.
6-I'm using the name of the guy who created Kenshin's two Sakabato's from Rurouni Kenshin.
7-If you can't guess its Duncan MacLeod's Dragon Katana from the Highlander TV series. Not only a good show but the way I discovered the awesomeness that is swords but most importantly (to me at least) katanas.
With that being said Kamen Rider Arashi riding off, well this case flying off. Thank you Schwartz for the Gundam, may you rest in peace. *Flies off in Shadow Gundam*