Author's Note:
FINALLY! I thought I'd never finish this chapter. Aside from the terrible writer's block I've been diagnosed with, our teachers decided to give us projects during Christmas vacation. It was such a pain in the ass. T_T Anyway, I'm done ranting now, so, ENJOY!
Destiny of the Cursed
Chapter 28: Strength to Protect
Shinobi rule number 4: A shinobi must always put the mission first…
"…No matter what happens." Ended the kunoichi in a hoarse voice, sprinting through the endless ocean of debris, scanning the area for any trace of danger. An inaudible sigh escaped her blistered lips. Whether it was the shinobi laws or her willpower that kept her running, she didn't know. All she knew was that she couldn't hang around crying all day while the whole village was in chaos. "Stay focused, girl. I can't have you dying because of an undetected kunai flying through your brain." The statement was followed by a cruel snicker, a scowl readily forming in her face. "Thanks for your concern." She remarked dryly, pushing the heels of her sandaled-feet against broken rocks to boost her speed. "Just trying to help, that's all", she heard the voice inside her say in a sing-song voice. It irked her to no end. "Well stop trying to, because it doesn't help at all."
"If you would only allow me to take cont—"
"No." answered Katana in a hard tone before the latter can even finish. "I won't let you take control of my body. I've said it before and I'll repeat it again: No." An exasperated groan responded to her from inside. "It was just a suggestion. There's no need to get all riled up. You've been extra bitchy since Kakashi died, you know that?" There was a sudden hitch of breath that lodged on her throat. Distracted, she stumbled on a shard of glass. She winced at the newly earned wound on her ankle; the stinging sensation did nothing to calm her irate mood. Forcing herself to take a deep breath, she set her gaze straight, her mouth clamped shut in a thin line. There was silence on the latter's side. "…I know losing that old man is a big deal for you—"
Katana didn't bother to stop the explosive groan that had been itching to get out. "Can't you just shut up? I'm tired. I'm wounded. I don't want to talk about it. I don't want to talk about anything. And most of all, I don't want to hear you speak about the matter, especially when you don't have the slightest clue about what I feel." She can't help but snap, once again cutting off her look alike. "Fine. If that's how you want it", spat the curse, "then that's how it will be…But I thought you said I felt the same way? Because, you are me…as I am you. Isn't that right?" At this, the girl fell utterly quiet, casting her eyes down to her feet. After minutes of waiting, the curse didn't pry anymore, knowing it wouldn't get a satisfying answer anyway. It sank to the depths of her mind again, leaving Katana to contemplate on what it said.
Buildings and barely standing structures entered her vision, a good sign that meant she was nearing to the Hokage's Tower. Releasing another breath, she reached out and applied a bit of chakra on her shoulder to ease the tight knots. "I am you, huh? Honestly…I don't know who I am anymore…" she muttered, ash-dull eyes facing staring forward.
"Konohamaru!"
The sudden yell caused her to screech into a halt in alarm. "Konohamaru…" she mumbled and ran east, hoping that she wouldn't be too late.
"Run, Konohamaru!" shouted Ebisu, stepping in front to defend the boy. The orange-haired man charged. Kunais and shurikens bared, the man braised himself for his death. A single kick sent him crashing against a mountain of rocks, the piles of rubble burying him. Groaning and coughing, he failed to notice the enemy approach and Pain grabbed him by the neck. "Sensei!" Konohamaru yelled in panic, gawking helplessly as his mentor writhed stubbornly from under the tight grip. "Where is Uzumaki Naruto? Tell me." Ebisu swallowed thickly and his gaze darted towards Konohamaru, sending a silent order, Run. He looked back at his captor, glaring at him weakly from behind the dark glasses.
"I…I don't know." Pain's eyes narrowed. "Then you will die." Before the threat was completely delivered, violet eyes shot open, blood spraying out of his mouth and on Ebisu's horrified face. The hold on his neck loosened until the man's hand fell down, along with the rest of his limp body collapsing before the jounin. Dark crimson liquid surrounded him. His insides coiled at the reek of the corpse.
"Are you alright, Ebisu-sensei?"
Startled, the teacher jerked his head up at his savior, squinting to in disbelief. "K-Katana-chan?" It took a couple of stunned seconds before a second reaction ignited, starting with Konohamaru choking a gasp and running to hug her. "Katana-nee-chan!" he sobbed, tears of relief soaking the brunette's torn clothes. A hand reached down to gently pat his head. "I'm sorry you had to see that…" She pulled back and kneeled, examining his face for any injuries. "Konohamaru", she said, wiping the boy's tear-stained cheeks, "I want you to go help your sensei find a medic. Then, head to a safe place, alright?" He nodded and walked off, still looking a bit shaken. "What about you, Katana-chan?"
Without glancing at the older man, Katana curtly answered, "I'll be fine." Ebisu frowned. "Are you sure? You look sort of pale." She faced him and the jounin suppressed a shudder. Her face was drained of color, blemished by droplets of blood. The sleeves of her shirt were torn and ripped, her arms bruised purple. Lips were split. Knuckles were broken. She was a wreck but it wasn't her appearance that troubled him most. The girl's eyes were hollow and blank, like two endless voids without hope or spark. She witnessed death for the first time, he realized. Even with the collected demeanor she showed, she was just another newbie on the killing field.
Katana didn't bother to reply to his question. Leaving Konohamaru to support the limping jounin, she ran through the wreckage, jumping on fallen buildings to hasten her pace. Not long after, she dashed on the walls of the Hokage tower and reached the roof top. "Tsunade-sama! Tsunade-sama, I—" Words were suddenly stuck in her throat as she stared straight bumps appeared on her arms. The Hokage turned back, eyes widening at the sight of her. "Katana, what are you doing here?" The question went unrecognized. All she took in was the image of the orange-haired man floating in the air, declaring about pain, hatred and war.
Scenes of their previous battle replayed over and over on her brain, reminding her of blood, dirt and screams, along with the image of a dead someone… She banished the thought. "Hokage-sama, I'm here to report about two of Pain's identity. One has five piercings on his face and six on top of his head. His head and arms can multiply into three and has a saw-like tail. He has the ability to shoot missiles from his back. The second one had seven piercings on his face, three on each ear. Both are dead." Tsunade gave a nod. "Good work. But I fear we have been a little too late." Grimly, she looked up at Pain's airborne form. Eyes following her gaze, Katana instinctively wrapped a hand on the hilt of her sword. The sides of her mouth tugged downward.
"I want you to feel pain, to know pain and accept pain." Stated the orange-haired Akatsuki from above. The ANBU guards took a step forward, muscles tense in alarm. "Katana, get out of here." Ordered the master medic before dashing forward. "Pain!" Tsunade yelled, head thrust upwards as she tried to get his attention. Katana's eyes narrowed in suspicion, mouth set on a thin line. What is he planning?
There was something in the way he raised his arms, looking down on Konoha like a god delivering judgment. It brought a nauseating feeling of danger, a strong urge to run and hide. "I will give the world more pain…" A sheer whisper, promising much agony and tears.
"Shinra—"Eyes flew open, gears in her head turning in comprehension. He was going to destroy Konoha.
"—Tensei."
"NO!"
A blinding light flashed in every direction, the rumbling sound of destruction reaching their ears. Buildings collapsed, walls caved in. The shattering of glass combined with terrified screams all at once were almost too much to bear. Violent gusts of wind carried off broken chunks of bricks and the earth trembled under their feet, its surface cracking and breaking apart in sharp jagged rocks. Dust mixed with the air, fogging over the place as the shaking of the ground ceased.
Katana pushed off the heavy boulder that lay on top of her, coughing harshly as dust irritated her lungs. As the hacking ended, she dropped down stock-still on the ground, breathing erratically in quiet wheezes. Her eyelids were shut close, feeling too heavy and tired to lift them up. A headache found its way to her brain, mercilessly pounding in her head. The impact of the jutsu left her body with a tingling ache. Have to…get up…
A wisp of cold air blew across her face, sharp and rushed. Her eyes flew open and she rolled reflexively just as a metal rod was brought down to where she was before. She jumped away to a safe distance, her breath heavy and ragged. Pain had his eyes on her, staring coldly. "You just keep avoiding death, don't you?" he asked, charging towards her. Quickly wrenching out her sword, Katana blocked and sidestepped, staggering as she tried to fend him off. As feeble as she felt right now, Katana knew he had the upper hand.
Distance…I need to get away from him.
With a hasty punch throw to his direction, Pain broke their locked weapons and took a step back. The girl took the opportunity to move farther from him, soothing her tense muscles with the momentary break. The man straightened, opening his mouth to speak, "The sooner you surrender, the sooner your pain will end."
"No", answered Katana, out of breath and heaving, "you'll never make me give up. I will fight with everything I have…for Konoha."
"For Konoha?" echoed Pain in question, looking at her blankly. "Look around." Though doubtful about the order, she scanned the dim area. A chill ran down her spine and she shuddered involuntarily, her gaze glued to the gaping crater…one that was previously known as Konoha. If the village had been at its worst when she had been conscious, then its current status should be equivalent to nothing at the moment. Once lively structures were reduced to rubble. No buildings were in vicinity, no houses or stores left standing. She could literally see the other side of the village from where she currently stood.
Even with her mouth slightly parted, no sound came out. Grey orbs were wide as they took in everything, from the mountains of ruin to the cracks in the ground. Her form shook, face horror-stricken; Tears prickled her orbs as they stared out at the empty clearing, agonizing anguish squeezing her chest. She felt as if she'd been stabbed a hundred times and then was thrown out in the open, left alone to bleed to death and for the birds to eat. Everything…was gone. "N-No…T-This c-can't be…"
"That's right. Your little village is gone. Painful, isn't it? To have something so important to you…" he glanced down at a crumbling rock, crushing it with his foot. "…be taken away for good."
Katana's moist eyes narrowed, her face turning tight. Losing the temporarily acquired muteness, the crease in her forehead deepened, rage taking over her. "You." She said, fisting her broken knuckles shakily. It was one word, but it held more emotion than one could express. Hatred churned restlessly in the pit of her stomach. "You…did this." Murky darkness clouded around her form like a veil as her irises became a darker shade of grey. "This—this is all your fault…" Pain lunged for her.
"You bastard!"
Powerful chakra exploded throughout the expanse, blowing away everything near her. The orange-haired Akatsuki member stopped short, digging his feet onto the ground to not get carried off. Black flames engulfed Katana, golden patterns marring any exposed flesh. She rushed towards him, canines bared and hands balled in steel fists. She punched and clawed, screaming incoherent words. "My home! My friends and comrades! Kakashi-sensei…You took them all away!"
Tears as dark as ink left a broken trail down her gold-veined cheeks. Katana could feel her control, or what was left of it, slipping away as she rained down attacks on Pain, not once dodging the stabs or blows he gave back. Consumed by the loathing in her heart, the patterns and markings became more apparent against her skin. It scarred her face beyond recognizable and what remained was a monster in the likeness of her original appearance. There was nothing more she wanted than to fight Pain, defeat Pain…kill Pain for all the agony he gave her.
A sudden explosion caused the two of them to break apart. A sliver of reality hit her fuzzy mind through the fury that confused it and she shook her head. She took in a sharp intake of breath, letting it out as a ragged gasp. The golden streaks across her face disappeared. Although the obsidian fog around her diminished, her wide eyes still burned with intensity and bloodlust. Katana stared at the three gigantic toads that came out of nowhere, eyes trailing upward and to the person standing on the head of the red frog. She squinted, disbelieving.
"Naruto?" Her voice was scratchy, coming out of a parched throat, but hopeful, as if any minute now he'd vanish and all of it will be just another mirage. The blonde atop spun at the mention of his name, searching pointlessly until he looked down. His red-ringed eyes widened at the sight of her. "Katana-chan…"
"Well, this certainly saves us the time we need to look for you."
Hearing the voice, Katana's enraged expression returned again. She ran around the frogs, stood her ground in front of them and glowered at Pain. He was battered and bruised, long scratches covering him as a result of their fight. He wiped blood off the side of his mouth with his shredded sleeve. The five other Pain appeared by his side, each one possessing the same pair of violet orbs.
"Hokage-sama!"
Tsunade descended down in front of Katana, her feet landing smoothly on the dirt. The two teens turned to her in surprise. "Hokage-sama!" called out an ANBU guard that ran after her, jumping down to pull her away from the battlefield. The blonde Sannin ignored him, gaze fixed angrily at the middle Pain. "I am the fifth Hokage", she declared, chest rising up and down in heavy pants, "and I will never forgive you for crushing the dreams and hopes of those who ruled before me! As Hokage, I will put a stop to you right now!"
"It's good to see that you finally understand a little of my pain. But I have no use for you. The one I want…" Katana barely caught a flicker of movement from the side as he trailed off. Without hesitation, she took hold of Tsunade's wrist and yanked her back, switching their positions as one of the Pain dove for her. There was a loud crash as Naruto smashed the Akatsuki member flat on the ground with one hit. "…Is me, right?" He finished for Pain, glancing up, challenging him. His audience stared at him, eyes wide and incredulous. For him to finish off that guy in one hit…He must have gotten insanely strong…
"Don't bother with these guys, Tsunade-obaa-chan." Naruto offered as he rose, studying his enemies before him. "Why don't you go and drink tea or something close to it?" With a snap of his fingers, he called," Gamakichi!" A large toad, slightly smaller than the previous three, jumped down behind them. "Take obaa-chan to a safe place." The frog gave a croaky 'gotcha' at the request. "Baa-chan, let me handle this. Tell the others not to interfere. It'll be hard to fight while protecting them at the same time." Though reluctant, the older woman nodded. "Alright. But take Katsuyu with you", she said, holding out a small slug, "she knows a bit about the enemy."
Katana accepted the assistance from Tsunade's outstretched hand, placing the white and blue creature on Naruto's shoulder. When Naruto spoke up for the second time, his voice held uncertainty. "This…may not be the best time to ask but I can feel everyone's chakra here—my senses are sharp due to the natural chakra flowing inside me." Again, he paused and the hesitant edge increased. He took a deep breath before talking again, "Is Kakashi-sensei away on a mission?" As soon as the words rolled off his tongue, Katana stiffened reflexively. The shadow around her grew dark once more, moisture stinging her eyes as she fought down a grimace.
Tsunade made no answer. All she could do was glance at the young kunoichi apologetically before looking down. "Do you know where he is, Katana-chan?" asked Naruto. Refusing to acknowledge the Sannin, Katana swallowed hard and forced the obscuring darkness behind a calm facade. Fisted hands flexed and dropped by her sides. "He's dead, Naruto." The statement hit her hard, like a blow in the gut. No matter how much effort she put in, she failed to hide the desperation in her tone. "He got into a fight with Pain." And I couldn't even save him… Naruto's shoulders tensed visibly. "I see." His voice was hollow this time, losing its peacefulness. Katana cursed inwardly. She just had to discourage him even more so. "I'm sorry", She said quickly, "I didn't mean to be harsh. I thought I—"
"It's okay." He craned his head slightly, looking at her from the corner of his eye. The brunette withdrew, taken aback. There was no anger with the way he looked at her, no regret or disappointment. All she saw was worry and a silent question of 'how are you feeling?'. Just like Kakashi-sensei's eyes…Unable to bear the resemblance, she averted her gaze, holding back the emotions. I will not cry. Not this time.
"I'm sorry." Katana's eyes snapped up in surprise, startled by the arms that pulled her into an embrace. Her body tensed reflexively. The blonde boy rested his head on her shoulder, heaving a deep breath. "I'm sorry that you had to go through this…I didn't mean to cause this much trouble." His voice was sincere, erasing any doubtful thoughts in her mind. Naruto gave her a gentle squeeze. "It's okay, Katana-chan. Just let it go." Slowly, she relaxed under his touch, bringing her hands up hug him back. Katana could feel her anger melting away, the flames of hate inside her dying out, leaving only ashes of grief. "It's not your fault, Naruto…I was the one who couldn't do anything."
"That's not true. You did everything you can." And it seems that even my everything is not enough…She released a sigh. Naruto pulled back and fixed his yellow amphibian-like eyes on her. "Now it's my turn. You should rest." A crease in her forehead deepened and she stared at him blankly, contemplating. "Please, Katana-chan." Katana shook her head with a snort, eyes returning to their silver-gray shade. "You always did hog the spotlight, didn't you, Naruto?" Amusement flashed the blonde's face before he turned his back against her.
"Gamakichi, take Katana-chan with you and get going." A large, specked hand grabbed her torso, lifting her up easily. With an enormous leap, they escaped the battlefield just in time before Pain launched a head-on assault. The frog collided neatly with a mountain of rubble, clutching Katana securely in one hand, Tsunade in the other. He set them down on the pile of broken rocks. "Tsunade-sama!" Turning to the direction of the voice, Katana saw her friend run towards them. She glanced at the blonde woman by her side. Tsunade looked weary, her young face becoming wrinkled. Strands of gray hair mixed with her yellow locks.
Sakura kneeled in front of her mentor and held her hand. "It's alright now, Sakura…" murmured the old woman weakly, beads of sweat running down her face. "Yes, Tsunade-sama. Everything's going to be fine." Agreed the girl, holding Tsunade. The older woman closed her eyelids, hand dropping down. Sakura sighed, adjusting her master's form on the ground. She looked up at the brunette, smiling sadly. "It's good to see you alive." Snapping out of a daze, Katana's look on Sakura softened. "I'm glad you are, too." Glancing around, Katana stood up, wincing as she started to feel the after-effects of her curse. Arms and legs feeling like lead, she wobbled with the first few steps. "Come on, Sakura. The others need help."
The cherry-haired girl nodded. "Hai."
Three forms huddled close together in a small ground, large debris surrounding them. A large explosion sounded from a distance and Shikamaru's head snapped up. "What's happening over there?" he asked in alarm, clutching his injured leg. "It's Naruto." Gurgled Katsuyu from behind him. "Naruto?" he turned to the summon with an incredulous look, "He's back?"
"Hai. He mastered the sage techniques and is fighting Pain alone. No one is to interfere." The boy clicked his tongue against his teeth in frustration. "Why's he trying to act cool? The village is already a mess! If he fights alone—"
"No." Shikamaru gave his father a confused glance. "If it's true that he mastered the sage techniques, then he's strong enough to fight someone like Pain. The best thing we can do now is lay low and wait."
"Not entirely, Commander."
Both males turned to see a pair of kunoichi heading their way. Shikaku's grim face lit up. "Why, if it isn't Sakura-chan and Katana-chan!" he said with a relieved smile. Sakura bowed to him in respect before approaching Shikamaru. Katana bowed as well and followed suit. She crouched down beside the medic and another woman, who were busy examining Shikamaru's leg. "What happened?" she asked, turning to him. The younger Nara had a frown on his face. "Broke my leg when Pain destroyed the village." He huffed irritably. Katana feigned a horrified expression. "Really? That sounds painful." Shikamaru grunted, rolling his eyes as he hid a smirk. "Oh please. This is nothing compared to yours."
"Not going to deny it." she said and shrugged.
Turning serious again, he glimpsed at her from the corner of his eye. "I didn't know you were in Konoha."
"I wasn't." answered Katana, "I was in Kumogakure when I received Konoha's letter for help. I ran here as fast as I could." Shikamaru used the back of his hand to wipe off the dirt on his cheek. "It was awful." He muttered. Katana made no comment about it. Silence stretched on the group for a minute, until Sakura raised her head to face them. "It seems like a minor fracture." She told them. "Unfortunately, I don't think I have enough chakra left to mend it, Shikamaru. With my chakra level right now, the best I can do is heal a few cuts and bruises." The boy sighed, hands shooting up to cover his face. Sakura managed a weak 'sorry' and placed her hands on top of him. Her palms emitted a pale glow of green and immediately small wounds on his exposed skin vanished one-by-one.
Katana watched with concern as her friend concentrated. Droplets of sweat ran down her face, eyes narrowing in determination. She struggled with her breathing, strained exhales escaping her mouth. Finally, the light from her hands gave out. Sakura flinched. "Damn it!" she hissed lowly, brushing away pink strands of hair that clung to her sweaty forehead. She inhaled deeply and made an effort to make the glow return. It sparked dimly for a few times before dying out again. The girl's scowl became prominent and was about to try for a third time when a hand clamped down on her shoulder. She whipped her head back.
"That's enough, Sakura." Said Katana firmly, stopping her. She replied with a disgruntled sigh. "I just can't do anything right!" Hearing the pink-haired girl berate herself, Shikamaru lowered his arms, somewhat guilty. "I'm feeling better now, really. Thank you." Sakura shook her head in defeat, unconvinced. Shifting uncomfortably in her place, Katana's expression suddenly livened up when an idea came to mind. She cleared her throat reluctantly, "Say, Sakura…"
"Hm?" The somber kunoichi inquired slightly gazing up at her. "Do you know how to do a chakra transfer?" Sakura straightened up at the question, blinking twice. "Yes", she answered, and then added curiously, "why?" A tentative smile illuminated the brunette's face. "Then, can you use my chakra to heal Shikamaru?" The medic-nin stared at her in surprise. "I-I've never actually thought of that before…" She glanced at Katana, nodding, "Let's give it a shot." Shikamaru looked back and forth between the two girls, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "Even though being your guinea pig is a little troublesome…" he mumbled, a little uncertain, "…I guess it wouldn't hurt to try."
Sakura positioned her hands above his injured limb, instructing Katana to put hers over her own. "Ready?" she asked and Katana nodded once. "Here it goes." The minute Sakura did the jutsu, Katana felt her chakra leave her body. She resisted the urge to retract her hand back and instead focused in giving the cherry-haired girl the amount of chakra she needed. Though foreign and unpleasant, the feeling was not absolutely painful. Closing her eyes, she evened her breathing, drawing chakra to her center. "W-We did it."
Her eyes flickered open. "What?"
"We did it…" repeated Sakura, a wide, awed grin plastered in her face. "I can't believe we did it!" It was over that fast? Skeptical, she turned her attention to the Nara, who returned the same disbelieving stare. "Try to walking, Shikamaru." Insisted Sakura, standing up and helping him to his feet. "O-Oi!" The genius tensed when she let go of him but took slow, hesitant steps. When he didn't crumple down on the ground like he expected, he walked a few more steps, exerting more weight on his feet. "It's like I wasn't even injured." He murmured in amazement and smiled at the two. "Thanks."
"Tsunade-sama taught you well, Sakura-chan." Praised Shikaku, walking near. The apprentice flushed proudly at the comment but interjected, "If it weren't for Katana's chakra, I wouldn't have been able to perform the jutsu anyway."
"Of course", agreed the jounin commander completely, "you too, Katana-chan. I thank you both for helping my son."
"It's no problem, sir." Katana said, picking herself up from the ground. "Speaking of chakra, I've still got half of it left. We have to help the others, Sakura." The other girl shook her head in agreement and proceeded to follow Katana down the gravel road. She inclined her head back. "Are you going to be alright, sir?" The older man waved off the inquiry with his hand. "Don't worry about us. We'll be fine. And also, we'll try to search for other medics to help you!" Shikaku called out as they went out of sight.
A series of loud explosions echoed throughout the ruins as Naruto's battle with Pain intensified. Shinobi surrounded the battlefield, anxiously watching and praying for Naruto's victory. Every clash or clatter, every bang that was heard ignited a reaction from the onlookers. The tension in the air was thick; fear radiated from almost everyone. Katana paid no attention to the deafening sounds of destruction and meditated silently instead, pushing out chakra from her palms.
"All good."
Lifting her hands off the medic's, she nodded her head to the weak 'thank you' and stalked to sit away from the rest. Katana skimmed the crowd thoroughly. Majority of them were badly hurt and chakra depleted, worn-out from the previous fight. Others lay unconscious on the ground, still recovering from the deep cuts that Sakura and the rest of the medical team healed recently. Still, there were a few people who, unfortunately, failed to survive at all. Lightly massaging her throbbing temple, she closed her eyes.
She and Sakura have been running back and forth for quite a while now, tending injured shinobi and guiding civilians to the underground passage. She was almost out of chakra, just like the others, from continuously supplying medic-nins with it. Katana exhaled a silent breath, calming her stressed nerves. This isn't going to work, she thought glumly with eyebrows knotted together, lost in thought. If Naruto doesn't end the fight soon, Konoha won't be able to hold much longer.
"Katana?" The voice cut through her grave contemplation, distracting her from her earlier musings. She looked up into worried jade green eyes. "You okay there?" Sakura asked, sitting beside her. Shaking her head, she mustered up a temporary smile. "Yeah. Just tired, that's all."
Sakura rubbed a comforting hand on her back. "You must be. After all those people that needed healing, I'm surprised you hadn't passed out from chakra exhaustion too. Good thing you have a large chakra reserve." Katana hummed in response, glad that her friend was there, making an effort to cheer her up. She always had been the one to remain upbeat and optimistic when everyone wasn't… when all things go wrong.
"We've taken care of most of them", continued Sakura, swinging her legs back and forth, "so a little break won't hurt us, right?" She turned to her, a teasing smile present in her dirt-stained face when she asked the question so casually, as if they weren't currently in a battlefield, surrounded by many wounded shinobi. Katana stared at her in disbelief. "What?" she asked innocently, but her expression clearly said she was joking. Sakura…Gaze softening, Katana found herself smiling back gratefully despite the situation at hand and slightly bumped Sakura's shoulder. Thank you.
Her grin widening, the pink-haired kunoichi let out an easy chuckle. She pursed her lips together. "I'm serious though. Rest." The sword mistress pondered on the order, feeling the ache of her body and the blunt stinging of old wounds. Maybe the idea of rest isn't bad after all, she thought, sparing her sore and bruised hands a downward glimpse.
"What are you doing? Get out of here!"
Both kunoichi snapped their heads up in alarm at the panicked yell. Sakura's fists clenched as she glanced at the other one nervously. "Was that…Naruto?" Fear bubbled from inside Katana again. It was the same feeling she got before Konoha was smashed to bits by Pain. She rose stiffly, turning to Sakura with another one of her forced smiles. "Looks like rest has to wait a little longer. Stay here with the patients and send back-up. I'll check it out." She said, jogging away.
Katana climbed up the rocky hill, grabbing on to piled up rocks to pull herself up. When the girl was perched safely on top, Katana swung her attention towards the fight, gaze immediately falling down on her immobilized friend, Pain and another figure that lay unmoving between them. She squinted. Catching sight of a purple sweater and long indigo-blue hair strands, her eyes widened. "That's—!"
"No! STOP!"
Before anyone could react, Pain brought the metal rod down on Hyuuga Hinata. Air rushed out of Katana's lungs in shock, but the girl was too distracted to care. Time seemed to stop, for at that moment, nobody moved. Nobody said anything, felt anything. The two teammates just stared, petrified, at the sight of their comrade helplessly sprawled on the ground, blood readily staining her jacket red. The orange-haired Akatsuki pulled the weapon out, wiping the blood away on a nearby rock. "This is like how my parents were killed." He droned out slowly, calmly, a serene plastered on his face. "Right before my very eyes. Love…breeds sacrifice...which breeds hatred and leads to war."
The moment Pain raised his head with his violet orbs glinting, Naruto's aura changed instantly. He let out a piercing ear-splitting shriek, red chakra bursting from within him. As the crimson shield around him crumbled down, Naruto's true form was revealed. The nine-tail's chakra clung to his body, ears elongating and canines appearing. Four tails were already visible when another one sprouted.
Shaken out of her stupor, dread crept up Katana's spine. "This is bad!" Bellowing another deafening growl, the partially transformed jinchuuriki pounced on Pain. The solid ground under them cracked from the tremendous force. "Hinata!" shouted Katana, remembering so suddenly where the Hyuuga was situated. Dashing towards the clearing, she scooped up the dark-haired heiress and jumped off just in time before the collapsing floor could catch up to them. Landing on her feet, Katana gently laid the girl down. "Hinata…" she breathed out, unable to tear her gaze away from the bloody mess of her coat. Trembling fingers fumbled with the zipper, tugging it down and open. Gaping wounds stared back at her, blood flowing out alarmingly fast.
"Shit!" The glow of chakra sparked from her palms, slowly treating the deep cuts. A hurt whimper came out from the kunoichi below her. "Hinata?" she asked, the panic in her voice distinct. Even with her face chalk-white and hooded eyes barely staying open, the meek girl managed to look regretful. "K-Katana-chan…" she whispered hoarsely as crimson liquid trickled down from her lips while she spoke, "I-I'm…so s-sorry." She choked out, beads of tears forming on the corners of her lavender white orbs. If possible, Katana's heart sank lower. "I…t-tried to s-save him, I-I really d-did."
"Shh. Y-You don't have apologize, Hinata-chan. What you did was enough. Please…just rest now." She urged, increasing the chakra in her hands. She looked down. Blood still oozed out in a hasty pace and the wounds looked no better than they were before. Eyebrows tensed, she swallowed thickly, stubbornly forcing out her chakra when Hinata elicited another pained gasp. The brunette cringed. The girl's eyes were merely fluttering now, her sickly pale face drenched in cold sweat. With a frustrated click of tongue against teeth, Katana shook the chakra off and brought her hands together. "Kage Bunshin no jutsu!" The clone appeared with a 'poof' and ran back to fetch the medical team without having to be told. She turned back to Hinata, brushing away dark locks that clung to the girl's cold face.
"K-Katana-c-chan?" the Hyuga questioned feebly, growing more colorless by every passing minute. Katana gazed at her through agitated eyes. She reached down, clasping Hinata's hand tightly. "Sakura's going to be here soon, Hinata-chan." She whispered encouragingly. "I just need you to hang on for a few more seconds." White byakugan orbs stared back hopefully. Hinata gave a faint smile. "Hai." No sooner than when she said it, the sound of rushed footsteps reached their ears. "Katana! Hinata!" yelled the medic as she ran. Behind her, the other medic-nin strained to keep up. Sakura slowed to a jog as she neared and knelt down. The rest of the team took their positions and formed a circle around Hinata. They all locked hands, including Sakura, and glanced at Katana. "Katana", said Sakura, extending a hand out to her, "we need your help. Please." She nodded in understanding.
Taking a deep breath, Katana grabbed on to Sakura. At once, the girl felt the excruciating sensation of her chakra being sucked out forcibly, draining her body of every last bit of energy she has. She drew a shuddering breath, eyebrows furrowing in concentration. Sweat poured down the sides of her grimacing face. The dull throbbing of her head turned into violent pounding.
Supplying Sakura didn't seem too demanding. But supplying chakra to four other medics at the same time took a toll on her. "Just a little bit more, Katana!" Sakura's voice sounded weak to her ears, almost inaudible. Images before her eyes seemed to get dimmer and dimmer, until she could no longer make out anything except for the bleary light. Her muscles were turning stiff from the pressure but Katana held on, ignoring the pain that she felt. This is nothing compared to what Hinata is suffering, she thought, teeth clenched tightly, so I can't…give up.
"She's alright now!" Came the relieved declaration from one of the medics. "We've successfully stopped the bleeding." They released the jutsu and broke free of the hold. Katana collapsed on the dust with a desperate gasp, greedily inhaling air she'd been deprived of. Worried whispers were exchanged between medics, trained fingers checking her pulse and temperature. In front of her, Hinata laid unconscious, chest rising up and down in even breathing. Thank goodness, the brunette heaved a tired sigh, relaxing little by little. The pain she felt moments earlier was already beginning to ease away.
Hands gripped her shoulders firmly and pulled her up in a sitting position. "You did great." Said Sakura softly, gentle hands soothing Katana's stiff arms. Katana's lips curved upwards. "Thanks." She replied, leaning against Sakura.
"GGRRRAAAAAAAH!"
The thunderous roar made everyone turned their heads to the open clearing. One medic let out a horrified yelp. "I can see s-six tails! At this rate, he might fully transform! What are we going to do?" The others began to panic, nervously fidgeting in their place. Katana creased her eyebrows, smile fading. "Sakura-chan!" The kunoichi whirled around, eyes widening at the newcomers. "Ah, Shikaku-san! Shikamaru!" The jounin commander and his son stopped in front of them, expressions grim. "A good thing we found you." Muttered the head Nara and informed them, "There has been a change in plan. Everyone must head to the underground passage immediately. If Naruto continues to lose control, no one will be able to stop him."
Sakura bit her lip in hesitation, turning to look back at the jinchuuriki on the battlefield. Reluctantly, she nodded once. "Alright." They all stood, Sakura helping Katana up. Shikamaru carried Hinata in his arms securely. "Come", said Shikaku, "we must hurry."
"Wait!"
He stopped, eyeing the younger girl in question. "Katana. Is something wrong?" Said girl pulled away from Sakura's support, standing shakily on her two feet. "Commander", she began, breath coming out in short pants, "what about the rest? Many of them are wounded and unconscious. They can't possibly reach the shelter in time!"
"The ANBU, my fellow jounin and I, would hold back Naruto while everyone escapes." Answered Shikaku. Katana's face fell. The older man sighed. "I understand that you worry, Katana-chan, but this is part of our job. In order to achieve the greater good, sacrifices must be made." Shikaku offered a small beam before turning his back on them, leading the way. The medical team followed him shortly. The jounin's words echoed inside Katana's mind as she walked, thoughts circulating in her head. In order to achieve the greater good, sacrifices must be made… She looked back at the clearing. Loud crashes and earsplitting screeches erupted in the midst of their battle. She halted, balling her fists. "Katana?" came the confused inquiry from Sakura.
"I…I-I'll do it."
"What?" asked Shikamaru incredulously, hearing the murmured statement. "I said I'll do it." repeated Katana, louder and clearer. "Commander!" she called out to Shikaku, "With your permission, I can prevent Naruto from coming near the village and buy enough time." Ushering his son to lead the group and proceed without them, Shikaku stalked towards the two kunoichi. "Katana-chan, do you understand what you're asking me?" he asked doubtfully, studying her. Katana stared back unwavering, face set in determination. "Hai."
"You must know, Katana, that I am one of the people who fought during the Kyuubi's attack on Konoha. Even with the shinobi and Hokage's powers combined, defeating it was certainly not an easy task. So tell me", Shikaku asked again, "how can you hold back Naruto on your own?"
"I—"
"You can't!" Intervened Sakura angrily, joining the conversation. "Katana, look at yourself!" she exclaimed, "You're tired. You're injured and out of chakra, just like the others. Stop pushing yourself further!" The pink-haired kunoichi ended her scolding with a weary huff, eyes glued on Katana's unmoving form.
"Perhaps", said Katana after a while, facing her with a blank expression, "you're right that I'm tired and chakra exhausted. But" she continued, "…I'm not like the others, Sakura." She sighed. "You, of all people, should know better."
Sakura opened her mouth to protest, but Katana gave her no chance. "This curse implanted in me gives me the strength and power that normal shinobi don't possess. It's a shame that I have to be the one to carry this burden for the rest of my life. But if I have to be burdened with it, then I might as well use it to protect the ones that I love." The Hokage's apprentice fell silent, dropping her gaze to her feet. Katana's tone softened. "I'm sorry Sakura, but I won't rest until I know everyone's safe. I already—" she stopped, swallowing back the lump in her throat, "a-already lost a precious person. I don't intend to lose another." She turned to Shikaku. "Commander?" The jounin closed his eyes wearily. "Permission granted."
That was all she needed to hear. With a grateful nod, she turned her heels and ran back to where Naruto and Pain were fighting. She stood in front of the battlefield, watching as the two exchanged blows. Another tail emerged from Naruto. Her anxiety growing, Katana wove seals quickly and slammed her hands down on the ground. "Kuroi Kago no Jutsu!" Black metal bars sprung up from below, towering over her and surrounding the area. She did another sequence of seals. "Kuroi Kaki!" Only a small spark came out. Katana grimaced.
Placing her hands together, she redid the jutsu. "Kuroi Kaki!" The black flames that she waited for never set off. From afar, she could see eight tails lashing back and forth from Naruto's figure. "Damn it." She hissed in frustration and panic, running a hand through her hair. I've reached my limit. I have to use that method. Unsheathing the weapon tied to her hips, Katana raised the slender sword. She took a deep breath and braised herself, before swiping its sharp edge across her arm. Face contorted in pain, Katana glanced down to see blood gushing out of the long wound. Not enough! She thought and slid the weapon to add another cut. Katana inhaled sharply, mouth snapped shut to prevent any pained groans from coming out.
Crimson liquid ran down from her wounds. She tossed the bloodstained weapon to the side, teeth clenched. Katana reached out for one of the poles, smearing it with blood. She tried the jutsu for a third time. "Kuroi Kaki!" A scream of agony escaped her as a blistering pain clawed the length of her arm, blood hissing nauseatingly as it reacted with the jutsu. The metal bar she held was engulfed by black flames. She fought to breath properly, still choking on short gasps. "What are you doing, girl?"
Shuddering in pain, she answered, "I-I'm trying to p-protect them."
"In that condition? Stupid girl, are you trying to get yourself killed?"
"I…" Katana began, "I can't just do nothing!" She protested furiously, gripping the black bar hard. She received an irritated snort from the other side. "Then why didn't you just call for my help? Isn't that what you always do?" Surprised at the latter's response, her anger vanished quickly. She looked down, murmuring faintly, "I didn't think you'd help me. After all, I did turn down your offer previously. I thought I offended you." Stunned silence answered her. After a pregnant pause, she heard her twin sigh. "I'd rather help you unwillingly than die unwillingly because of your idiotic ideas." It said. "But it'll be painful, especially now that you've used up most of your energy. Do you still want my help?" Katana looked up from beyond the cage. Nine tails all present, Naruto wrecked havoc around the unguarded area.
She forced back the hesitation she felt. "Help me." As the words left her mouth, a surge of agony hit her. Her shoulders had never felt so heavy, as if a thousand boulders weighed them down. Pain slithered coldly up her spine, coiling around her arms and body and down to her legs, then constricted slowly, squeezing the life out of her. A wall of black flames devoured the rows of metal bars, acting like a protective dome to prevent Naruto or Pain from getting to the other side. Eyes flashed black and gold. "Focus, girl." The curse said sternly as Katana's body shook in pain. Try as she might, Katana found it impossible to concentrate. The pain was just too much to handle. "I…c-can't." rasped out Katana, falling down to her knees. "Calm down. Don't fight it."
Every movement was painful; every breath seemed more labored than before. She felt like drowning and being burned alive at the same time. Meagerly she closed her eyes, trying hard to ignore the agony that was threatening to tear her apart in two. "That's it. Breathe in." Katana did as the curse said and inhaled, disregarding the way her lungs felt scorched by the sweltering air. "Breathe out." As the time passed by, the intense pain and blazing heat that she felt diminished. She could no longer hear the roar of flames around her, nor the chilling cries that the nine-tailed jinchuuriki let out.
Flashback
The constant smacking sound of feet against wood rang in her ears. Grey eyes were fixed at the tall figure, following the swift movements of his body. Seven-year old Katana absentmindedly plucked out tufts of grass as she watched the silver-haired man do his daily training. She didn't understand why other people thought he was lazy. He constantly worked out, did missions regularly and pushed to further improve himself. Lazy people didn't do all those. She tilted her head to the side.
"Ano…Tou-san?"
Kakashi stopped midway on another kick, his leg suspended in the air. He turned to her. "Hm?" The girl tugged at her hair. "Why do you do that?" The jounin delivered a last kick to the abused wooden post, successfully breaking it. "Do what, Katana-chan?" he asked, his full attention now on her.
"Train." Said the child simply.
"You're asking me why I train?" asked Kakashi again for clarification. Katana nodded. The man looked up, rubbing his jaw wistfully. "To get stronger, I guess." He answered with a shrug and sat down beside her. "Oh..." Hearing the disappointment in the girl's voice, he blinked twice at her, suddenly conscious. "Why did you ask anyway?" Katana bent her knees up and wrapped her arms around them. She looked down, frowning. "Iruka-sensei told us...that training isn't just about getting stronger or better. But, isn't that the real reason why we train?" She asked, glancing at the older man. Finally understanding what she meant, Kakashi chuckled. For some reason, this frustrated the young girl more. She straightened up and pouted, crossing her arms in front of her. "What's so funny?"
"Well, I think what Iruka-sensei meant was, there's another reason behind people wanting to get stronger. Perhaps the most common reason for people to seek strength is to gain fame or victory in return." Said Kakashi, letting his explanation sink in her mind. Katana dropped her arms. "Oh."
"What about you, Katana-chan?" asked Kakashi, "Why do you want to be stronger?" Katana blinked twice at him, uncertain. "W-Well I guess, I want to be strong enough so that I could…protect people I love."
"Is that so?"
"Hai." Katana let out a surprised squeak as a large hand ruffled her hair. "Tou-san!" she protested, batting his hand away. Kakashi smiled at her. "Don't worry; I'm sure you'll be able to get strong enough to do that."
End Flashback
Heavy eyelids lifted open, light temporarily blinding her. As her eyes adjusted, Katana found herself flat on the ground. She scanned her surroundings. The vast wasteland was quiet for a change. There were no explosions, no wails or screams. Her gaze lowered in regret. Have I…failed? Did Naruto or Pain destroy the village, after all?
"Look over there! It's Naruto!"
Her attention perked up at the excited cheer. Naruto… He's alright. The others are safe… Numerous shouts of 'Thank you!' and 'You saved us!' echoed all over the area. She let out a sigh of relief. Tou-san, she thought happily, I did it. I became strong enough to be able to protect the village. I just wish… she trailed off, the smile in her face disappearing, that I had been strong before so that I could've saved you. The happiness that she felt moments ago was now gone, replaced by sorrow and an empty feeling of loneliness. I saved the village. But I couldn't save you…all this is meaningless without you here with me.
"Ah, what do we have here?" She froze. The person looming over her chuckled lightly. "What's wrong, Katana-chan?" Katana opened her mouth to reply, but only a small gasp came out. The man bent down, sliding his arms under her back and legs, and picked her up easily. She finally caught a glimpse of his face. "Y-You…" she stammered in disbelief. "T-this can't be…H-How?" He was there. He was there with her. "It's kind of a long story." He explained while walking through the uneven road. "I know how you feel. I couldn't believe it at first, too." With trembling fingers, she reached out, gently touching his face.
Mismatched eyes stared down at her, telling her everything was going to be alright. "It's okay, Katana." He whispered in a hushed voice. "It's me." Mixed feelings and emotions rushed to her all at the same time, leaving her breathless and overwhelmed. Tears welled up from the corners of her eyes, spilling down her face. She fisted his flak jacket, burying her face on his chest. She choked on her sobs, unable to stop the tears from falling down. "Y-You're alive! You're alive…" she gasped out between sniffles, clutching to him desperately. "Yeah." Said Kakashi, smiling in relief as the hysterical girl relaxed against him, passing out from exhaustion. "I'm here, Katana. I'm here."
"Yo, Kakashi!"
The silver-haired jounin turned to meet the owner of the voice. "Ah, Gai-kun." He greeted, slowing down. The other man smiled brightly at him. "You want to meet up with the others?" He offered, pointing at the small group behind him. He faced his friend with a sheepish smile. "Sorry, but I'll think I'll pass." Looking down at the sleeping girl in his arms, he continued, "Besides...I think I owe my daughter some of my time."
End Chapter