DISCLAIMER: I DON'T OWN NARUTO (BUT IF KISHIMOTO PLANS ON MAKING A WHAT-IF SPIN-OFF OF NARUTO? I'LL BE SURE TO CONTACT HIM HAHA)
Ch.26 - An Explosive Idea
Asuma and his team sought refuge in the depths of the forest, taking a moment to recover and devise a new strategy to face their formidable adversaries. Although Asuma wasn't particularly struggling with Kushimaru, the encounter had exposed him to a unique fighting style. Kushimaru's ability to manipulate his own bones intrigued Asuma, who carefully studied his opponent's techniques during the battle. The limited repertoire of moves Asuma showcased included Katon: Ryuka no Jutsu (Fire Release: Dragon Fire Technique), Katon: Karyudan no Jutsu (Fire Release: Fire Dragon Bullet), and Shuriken Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique).
During the skirmish, Asuma observed that Kushimaru favored using ninja wire, demonstrating its destructive potential by effortlessly felling numerous trees. Additionally, Kushimaru utilized senbons as his projectile of choice, some of which were cleverly laced with ninja wire. These observations formed the foundation of Asuma's plan to counter Kushimaru's tactics.
Asuma knew that a potent fire jutsu could dissipate the Kirigakure no Jutsu (Hiding in Mist Technique) by elevating the ambient temperature and causing condensation. He also discovered that employing Doton: Doryuheki (Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall) effectively blocked incoming projectiles, while an even more robust defense could be achieved with Doton: Chikyū no Kinko (Earth Release: Earth Dome), safeguarding him from all angles. Asuma made sure to keep in mind that Kushimaru was proficient in Silent Killing, regardless of whether or not mist shrouded the battlefield.
After a while, Asuma abruptly halted their march, causing Naruto, Shino, and Ino to stop as well. Curiosity piqued, Naruto queried the reason for the sudden pause. "Why did we stop, Asuma-sensei?" he asked.
"I believe this is a far enough spot to rest for a while. While we're here, let's discuss our situation," Asuma addressed his students.
The trio nodded, setting down their packs and joining Asuma on the forest floor, forming a circle. Asuma initiated the discussion.
"I suppose we should talk about the elephant in the room, we got our asses handed to us back there" Asuma acknowledged. Naruto and Ino sighed, while Shino maintained his silence, albeit with a somber expression. Asuma recognized the disappointment shared by his team.
"But remember, it's okay to encounter setbacks. We pretty much got jumoped by them from the get go, so we weren't really expecting any company by then. Nonetheless, we must always be prepared. Here's the important part: Don't let defeats discourage you. Surviving a battle you were likely to lose can be considered a victory. We emerged with valuable insights about our opponents, and that's what matters. So, tell me, what did you learn about your respective enemies?" Asuma inquired.
Naruto eagerly jumped in to share his experience with Kimimaro. "You wouldn't believe it, Asuma-sensei! This guy, Kimimaro, fights using his own bones. He can sprout bones from anywhere on his body and use them as weapons. I couldn't land a hit on him without sustaining injuries, and he even launches bone projectiles! It's insane!" Naruto exclaimed.
Asuma found himself fascinated by the unconventional fighting style, sensing a familiarity that eluded his memory. He proceeded to share his own discoveries about Kushimaru.
"My opponent is a member of the Kiri no Shinobigatana Shichinin Shu (Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist). They must have covered this during your time at the academy if you were paying attention," Asuma directed his comment toward Naruto, who sheepishly scratched the back of his head in response. Ino rolled her eyes at Naruto's lack of attentiveness.
"In any case, they're a formidable group known for their exceptional swords, each possessing unique abilities. The man I faced, Kushimaru Kuriarare, is quite crafty. He set up traps during our encounter, relying heavily on ninja wire and senbons. Kushimaru also employed the Kirigakure no Jutsu (Hiding in Mist Technique) and Silent Killing," Asuma explained.
Intrigued, Ino questioned why Asuma shared this information with them. Asuma had a clear answer. "I'm sharing this with all of you, not because I expect you to aid me in dealing with Kushimaru. I understand that each of you is already grappling with your own challenges. I'm sharing this information as a precaution, in case Kushimaru succeeds in killing me. I hope it doesn't come to that though, but it's better to be prepared. If he does come after you three, I want you to be ready for the worst. Do you all recall what I told you back at the ranch?" Asuma reminded his students.
"Exactly, I understand that this may sound grim, and I'm fully aware of it. However, this is the harsh reality of the shinobi world—cruel and unforgiving. To survive in it and avoid meeting an untimely demise, you must possess the necessary fortitude. I won't sugarcoat things because I to open your eyes to the harsh truths we face. Yet, I believe in your ability to overcome this obstacle, just as you have with previous missions," Asuma expressed gravely, rising from his seat and leaving his three students to their own devices.
"So, any ideas on how we'll deal with Kimimaro?" Ino inquired, seeking input from her comrades.
Shino remained silent, lacking any suggestions, while Naruto furrowed his brow, scratching his head as he delved into his thoughts. After a few minutes, a spark of excitement illuminated Naruto's face, indicating that he had conceived an idea. Ino noticed this and was about to speak up when Naruto muttered that it was a foolish notion. He continued to ponder alternative strategies, and after some time, Naruto's countenance brightened once more. Ino witnessed this for the second time, but Naruto dismissed his idea once again. This cycle repeated for a few minutes, gradually frustrating Ino. "Could you please stop that, Naruto?!" she protested in exasperation.
"Oh... Sorry, hehe. But seriously, I don't have any ideas to suggest," Naruto replied apologetically.
Ino sighed. They were at a complete impasse, their productivity dwindling. Suddenly, her stomach let out an audible growl, causing embarrassment to wash over Ino. Both Naruto and Shino heard it, drawing their attention.
"Why don't we all eat first? After all, good ideas can't be made with an empty stomach," Naruto suggested, and both Ino and Shino agreed that nourishment was a good idea. They hadn't eaten for quite some time. Naruto rummaged through his pack, searching for his cup ramen, as it was the only sustenance he had brought along. Fortunately, Naruto had packed more than one, just in case.
Naruto also retrieved his water bottle, intending to boil water for his ramen. However, he needed one more thing before he could begin. Fire. Naruto stood up and set about collecting firewood for a campfire. Once he had gathered enough, he constructed a wooden teepee and ignited it using the fire-jutsu Asuma had taught them the previous day.
"Katon: Hoteri Ougigata no Jutsu (Fire Release: Flash Fan Technique)," Naruto uttered as the flames danced before him. It had been wise for Naruto to bring along a cooking pot, as boiling water was otherwise impossible. He fashioned a wooden tripod and suspended the pot from it, pouring in the necessary amount of water and waiting for it to come to a boil.
"Damn it..." Naruto muttered, his face falling with disappointment.
"What's wrong?" Ino inquired, concern etching her features. Shino, too, turned his attention towards Naruto, sensing his distress.
"I think I left my kunai back at the inn," Naruto confessed, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head.
"So?..." Ino questioned, failing to grasp the significance of the situation.
"That was the only kunai I brought with me," Naruto admitted, his tone reflecting a mix of frustration and embarrassment.
Ino sighed in exasperation, realizing Naruto's carelessness. "Fine, you can borrow my spare kunai," she offered, extending her hand with the weapon.
"Well... Gee, thanks, Ino!" Naruto exclaimed, his foxy grin returning momentarily.
"Don't you dare lose that one too," Ino warned him, her voice tinged with a mixture of annoyance and concern.
"Okay, okay... I, Uzumaki Naruto, solemnly swear to take great care of Yamanaka Ino's kunai," Naruto vowed playfully, causing Ino to roll her eyes in response to his usual antics.
While Naruto prepared his food, Ino enjoyed a meal lovingly prepared by her mother. She relished the taste of onigiri, while Shino partook in the dorayaki he had packed.
After a few minutes, the water finally reached its boiling point, and Naruto carefully poured it into his cup ramen. Naruto begrudgingly accepted the additional two to three minutes of wait time before he could devour his meal. Once the noodles were cooked to his satisfaction, Naruto began to eat, savoring each bite with delight. Contentment escaped him in an exhale as he finished. With his meal concluded, he promptly packed his belongings, prepared for any possible hasty departure his team might require. However, his attention was captured by the sealing scroll that contained all his books. It sparked an idea in his mind. Could he employ fuinjutsu to deal with Kimimaro? The possibility lingered, but the true question remained—could Naruto pull it off? He acknowledged his status as a novice, still grasping the fundamentals. Although he had read about sealing individuals, such a feat seemed beyond the capabilities of a beginner like him. Naruto needed to contemplate simpler approaches. Currently, he could only seal inanimate objects. But how could he employ this particular skill?
The gears in his mind began to turn as he formulated a strategy to confront Kimimaro, all the while tidying his belongings. Once Naruto finished tidying up, he dedicated his focus to devising a plan to share with his teammates. An idea sprung forth, prompting him to empty his pouch onto the ground, much to the confusion of Shino and Ino. Ino took it upon herself to inquire.
"What are you doing, Naruto?" Ino asked, puzzled by Naruto's actions. However, Naruto remained silent, deeply engrossed in his current task. Suddenly, his attention snapped back to Ino, and he leaned in closer to her face, posing a question. "Ino! Do you have explosive tags in your pouch?" Naruto asked with enthusiasm, his mind brimming with possibilities.
"Hello?... Naruto?" Ino said, taken aback as Naruto suddenly snapped his attention towards her, his face coming uncomfortably close to hers. She could feel his warm breath, tinged with the aroma of ramen, against her skin. Ino's cheeks flushed slightly in response. "Y-Yeah... I do. But why do you need them?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Give them to me," Naruto eagerly requested, his excitement apparent.
"But why?" she questioned, still unsure.
"You'll see. Shino, do you have any explosive tags in your pouch?" Naruto inquired, turning to his other teammate. Shino nodded and handed him a pad of explosive tags, similar to what Ino had given him.
"Great, just give me a second," Naruto replied, retrieving his sealing materials. Ino observed with intrigue, wondering what Naruto had in mind.
Naruto proceeded to replicate the same process he had used for his books, meticulously copying the sealing formula onto the scroll. In the center, he inscribed baku (kanji for "explode") right at the middle. Naruto then infused the scroll with his chakra, ensuring it could contain the explosive tags securely. This time, he decided to infuse it with a considerable amount of chakra, or at least what he deemed "enough." With everything in place, all that remained was to arrange the explosive tags on top of the scroll. "Funyu no Jutsu! (Enclosing Technique)," Naruto declared, and in an instant, the tags vanished in a puff of smoke.
"There! Now, here's the plan. If he manages to survive after being bombarded with thirty-six explosive tags to the face, I don't know what will kill him," Naruto stated confidently.
"That's it?" Ino questioned, seeking clarification.
"What do you mean?" Naruto retorted.
"That's the entire plan? Sealing a bunch of explosive tags inside a scroll is impressive, but is that all?" Ino pressed, wanting to understand the full extent of Naruto's strategy.
"What? No, of course not. Let me explain," Naruto responded, eager to elaborate.
"Alright then, I was just curious," Ino replied, accepting his response.
"Okay... This is how it's gonna go," Naruto began, thoroughly explaining the plan to his teammates. He hoped that his strategy would prove successful. Their discussion carried on for a few minutes, as they wanted to ensure the plan was foolproof. Finally, they wrapped up their conversation just as Asuma rejoined them.
"Asuma-sensei, you're back. So, what did you find? Were we followed?" Naruto inquired, eager for an update.
"It seems we weren't followed, but we should be cautious and avoid staying in one place. Pack your belongings and make sure to leave no trace," Asuma replied, noticing the campfire that Naruto had created. Disassembling it wasn't sufficient—they needed to eliminate any evidence. Fortunately, Asuma possessed a jutsu for that purpose.
Performing a series of hand seals—Ram, Hare, Snake, Ram, Dog, Ram, Monkey—Asuma said, "Doton: Wareme Souzou (Earth Release: Chasm Creation)." The ground trembled, and a portion of it split apart, creating a chasm. Asuma exerted less chakra, resulting in a shallower and smaller fissure. The burnt wood and soot from the campfire cascaded into the chasm, vanishing from sight. Asuma released the jutsu, and the ground sealed up as if nothing had happened.
After Asuma took care of the campfire, he instructed his students to double-check their belongings before leaving. Once they felt they had fully recuperated, they would proceed to another location within the forest. Only then would they attempt to confront Kushimaru and Kimimaro again, this time fully prepared for the battle ahead.
- Inside Gato's Office -
Gato sat brooding behind his desk, downing another saucer of sake in one gulp. From his appearance, it was evident that he was more than just unhappy. Unhappy seemed too mild a word to describe the rage that coursed through him at that moment. He seethed with frustration for multiple reasons. First, he was infuriated that someone in town had leaked information, leading Konoha shinobi to meddle in his affairs. Second, he was seething that his lackeys had failed to track down the troublesome intruders. And lastly, he was livid at the fact that Kushimaru and Kimimaro had missed their opportunity to eliminate them. Seeking solace, Gato poured another serving of sake into his saucer and downed it swiftly.
Just then, the door to his office swung open, revealing one of his henchmen.
"Um... Gato-sama, is now a good time to—" the man began, only to be cut off by Gato's thunderous yell. "GO AWAY!" Gato exclaimed, flinging his empty saucer towards the door. Thankfully, the henchman managed to close the door in time, narrowly avoiding the shattering saucer. The shards of glass littered the floor, a testament to Gato's fury.
Muttering to himself about the incompetence of his subordinates, including Kushimaru and Kimimaro, Gato found no respite. The door opened once again, and Gato, unwilling to entertain any interruption, grabbed the empty sake bottle this time. However, as the door swung open, Kimimaro entered the room. Swift and agile, he effortlessly caught the flying bottle with one hand, leaving Gato stunned but still seething with anger.
Kimimaro had managed to survive Shino's insect tornado, albeit not unscathed, with bandages adorning parts of his body. Shino's jutsu had taken its toll, but it hadn't been enough to bring him down.
"What do you want?! Can't you see I'm not in the mood to talk?" Gato snapped, his irritation palpable.
"Kushimaru-sama has sent me to inform you that it is that time of the month," Kimimaro calmly stated.
Gato scoffed, his frustration only mounting. "REALLY?! Kushimaru expects me to pay him even though you two failed to get rid of our 'pests' here in Mori no Kuni (Land of Forests)? Tell your master that I won't be paying him a single cent until he does his job properly. That damn bastard is all talk—I'm just wasting money by hiring him," Gato muttered, retrieving another bottle of sake from his drawer.
Kimimaro knew that his master would not take kindly to Gato's disrespectful words. He prepared to leave Gato's office, but before he could do so, the door swung wide open once again, revealing Zori and Waraji.
"Boss! Boss! Boss!" Zori exclaimed with enthusiasm. This sudden interruption caught both Kimimaro's and Gato's attention, with one surprised and the other furious—easily distinguishable.
"What is the meaning of this?!" Gato bellowed.
"Good news, boss! Waraji and I managed to find a lead on the whereabouts of the Konoha shinobi," Zori explained, his excitement evident.
The news managed to alleviate some of Gato's frustration. Intrigued, he urged Zori to provide more details. "Tell me about this lead," Gato demanded.
"There's an old man and his granddaughter. They own an inn where the Konoha shinobi stayed for a while," Zori revealed.
"Where are they now?" Gato asked eagerly.
"They're currently in our holding cell, Gato-sama," Zori informed him.
"I see... Very well. You're dismissed," Gato replied, gesturing for Zori to leave his office.
With Zori bowing and exiting the room, the gears in Gato's mind began to turn. After a while, a plan took shape, centering around their newfound hostages. "Kimimaro, inform Kushimaru to prepare himself. Find those Konoha shinobi, and when you do, let them know that we have their little friends," Gato ordered, determination gleaming in his eyes.
Kimimaro acknowledged Gato's command with a bow, leaving the room without uttering a word.
(A/N: So that's the end of this chapter, haha and I hope y'all liked it. I also received some questions, this is the replacement for the Wave Arc. I decided not to put that one in this fic since it has been done a lot so I'm guessing most of you probably know it by heart now and I wanted to go with another route by using a different member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen and swapping out Haku with Kimimaro. Second, I was planning with Gato kidnapping Kunio and his granddaughter but... I already wrote it that Gato was in town but not really terrorizing it but the people were still afraid of him since he has armed henchmen and shit. Most of the townsfolk were docile enough to not stand up against him though there was still someone who asked for Konoha shinobi to come to their town (you could probably figure out who did it). I plan on Team Kurenai to deal with a different type of mission. It's also nice hearing from you AtomsK and Ogremen haha. Anyway, that's all I have to say, thanks for the continued support. Show me some love and RnR, cheers!")
(A/N#2: Changed the title haha, oops my bad. It should have been An Explosive Idea and not The Art of Fire and you'll get it soon enough)
(A/N#3: I rewrote this story with the hostage route I mentioned in the first A/N of this chapter)