INSERT DISCLAIMER HERE. You all know what I mean.
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Run Baby Run
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Sakura and Hinata stood by the bulletin board with a map of the race course, surrounded by the lively atmosphere of the Hot Springs race. The buzz of excitement filled the air, mingling with the cheers of the crowd as the runners prepared for the grueling challenge ahead.
Hinata glanced at the race posters, that had in bold letters across the top, "No Shinobi Allowed", her brows furrowed. "Look at this Sakura. Running 26 miles through treacherous terrain with no shinobi training. It's like they're asking for trouble."
Reading the map, the race course stretched out before them, a challenging and diverse landscape that demanded both physical strength and mental agility. To the left, a majestic river flowed, its waters sparkling under the sunlight, the first leg of the race followed the river into the mountains. The sound of rushing water added a soothing backdrop to the scene. Across the river, they could see the second leg of towering mountains, their peaks hidden in wisps of clouds. The mountains stood as formidable obstacles, promising steep ascents and treacherous descents. As their eyes followed the race course, they noticed the winding path that led up the mountains, disappearing into dense forests.
Scanning the map they could see the next leg was a valley spread out, with a breathtaking vista of lush greenery and colorful wildflowers. The valley seemed deceptively serene, hiding the dangers that lurked within its depths. Hidden trails, rocky terrains, and unforeseen obstacles would test the racers' agility and endurance. The beauty of the scenery was contrasted by the unpredictable terrain, filled with uneven ground, hidden potholes, and unpredictable obstacles. Running across the open fields would demand focus and adaptability. Markings on the map warned of snakes and other predatory animals.
The final leg of the race presented the racers with a daunting downhill descent. The valley narrowed, revealing steep cliffs and rocky edges. The descent would test their agility and courage as they raced against gravity, relying on their nimble footwork and quick reflexes to navigate the treacherous path safely. The race ended back where it started but the last few hundred yards would require the racers to swim across before the final mad dash.
"I just don't understand," Hinata murmured, her gaze fixed on the bustling crowd. "Why would anyone willingly participate in such a dangerous race? What could possibly make it worth it?"
Sakura studied the race map, her finger tracing the intricate course. "Look here," she said, pointing to a corner of the map. "The winner is awarded ten million Yen and a year's stay at the penthouse in the Casino of their choice."
Hinata's eyes widened in surprise. "So it's all about the money and luxury? It still seems incredibly risky."
Sakura sighed, a tinge of frustration in her voice. "It's not just about the prizes, Hinata. There's something more to it. These sponsors wouldn't invest so much without expecting a significant return."
Hinata furrowed her brow, deep in thought. "You think there's a hidden motive behind all of this?"
Sakura nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "Absolutely. Offering such extravagant rewards is a smokescreen. They want the winner to become entangled in their web, spending their fortune at the casino. It's a win-win situation for the sponsors."
"I don't get it," Hinata mused, her eyes scanning the crowd of spectators. "Why are we even bothering with this race? Our mission is to find Jiraiya, not to save these thrill-seeking participants."
Sakura sighed, her gaze shifting from the race map to Hinata. "You're right, Hinata. Our main objective is to locate Jiraiya, but we can't ignore the potential leads that might arise from this event. It's possible that he's involved in some way, considering his reputation."
Hinata furrowed her brow, still skeptical. "But what if we're wasting our time? What if he's not here at all?"
Sakura nodded, understanding Hinata's concerns. "I know it's a long shot, but we have to exhaust all possibilities. Besides, gathering information about the race and its participants might lead us closer to Jiraiya."
Hinata's eyes narrowed as she continued to scan the crowd, her Byakugan allowing her to perceive the hidden chakra signatures of the participants. The civilians around them seemed to blur into the background as her focus honed in on those with trained shinobi chakra networks. It was as if they were shining brightly amidst the ordinary.
"There are four shinobi in the race," Hinata informed Sakura, her voice filled with intrigue. "It seems they didn't screen the participants thoroughly. There is no way for any of the civilians to win.."
Sakura, consumed by the urgency of their mission, barely spared a glance at the racers. Her attention was solely on finding Jiraiya and safeguarding the village. "Only four? I expected more, considering the way they bragged about the race at the beach party Ino and I attended last night," she remarked, her tone focused as she pushed her way into the crowd looking for any sign of Jiraiya.
Hinata's gaze flickered from face to face, searching for any sign of Jiraiya among the crowd. "Do you think Jiraiya has anything to do with this race?."
Sakura nodded, her expression reflecting her determination. "It is one of only two great events going on this week, Jiraiya could be hiding in plain sight, and we can't afford to miss any clues."
As the race was about to begin, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Hinata and Sakura focused their attention on their surroundings, their senses heightened. Hinata spotted a flash of white hair and focused her Byakugan on that area.
"I see him, or someone that sure looked like him.", said Hinata turning to her left and marching through the crowd, many jumping to the side as she poked them with a gentle fist strike. With Sakura in her wake, they walked right up to the security gate before getting stopped by the race officials.
"Sorry, no one is allowed beyond this point without a participant pass," the older lady with the clipboard reiterated firmly, her gaze fixed on Hinata and Sakura. She had dealt with determined individuals before, but these two waifs seemed particularly persistent.
Hinata's eyes narrowed, a steely determination shining through. "We don't have time for this. We need to find Jiraiya," she insisted, her voice tinged with frustration.
Sakura, standing by Hinata's side, took a step forward, her expression resolute. "We won't cause any trouble. We just need some information. Please, it's urgent."
The old woman hesitated, her stern demeanor faltering slightly under their unwavering gazes. After a moment of contemplation, she sighed and looked around cautiously before leaning in closer to Hinata and Sakura.
"I'm not supposed to say anything, but I overheard some rumors about Lord Jiraiya. He is going to be the one starting the race," whispered the old woman. "It's such a great honor to have him here, and we didn't want the crowd to go too crazy. It will be the greatest surprise in the last ten years."
Hinata and Sakura exchanged a glance, a glimmer of hope crossing their eyes. "Thank you," Hinata said with a nod, her voice filled with gratitude.
The old woman nodded in understanding, her expression softening. "Just be careful, girls. Lord Jiraiya is not an easy man to find. If you're set on locating him, keep your wits about you and be prepared for the unexpected."
Hinata and Sakura thanked the old woman again and swiftly moved away, their minds focused on their mission. The race had taken on new significance for them now, as it became their opportunity to get closer to locating Jiraiya.
They navigated through the bustling crowd, their senses heightened as now they knew their target was near. The atmosphere crackled with excitement, filled with the cheers and applause of the spectators. They could see the podium in the distance, it stood high above the crowd, and they could see a steady stream of racers walking up the stair to stand in rows as if waiting for something to happen.
Hinata grabbed a man waving a flag that matched one of the racers and turned him around to look at her. "What are they doing up there.", she yelled at him over the noise of cheering. He thought she was just too short to see what was going on and was more than happy to talk to such a beauty.
"Each runner gets to shake the hand of the grand marshal before the race starts. You can sit on my shoulders if you want to see.", said the man grinning from ear to ear at the idea of Hinata's legs around his neck.
"That is not what I require,", she said coldly as she went back to tell Sakura what she learned.
As soon as Sakura heard the news, her eyes widened in surprise. She glanced over at the podium on the other side of the track when she turned back to ask if Hinata had any ideas she spotted Hinata already making her way through the crowd. Hinata's expression was one of controlled rage, and Sakura couldn't help but feel a mix of panic and apprehension.
"What is Hinata doing?" Sakura muttered to herself, quickening her pace to catch up with her. As she approached, Sakura noticed how effortlessly Hinata moved through the crowd. People instinctively cleared a path for her, reacting to something Hinata was doing.
Hinata, her eyes focused on the prize ahead, was utilizing her ninja skills with a touch of mean-girl flair. Instead of overtly pushing or shoving, she employed her gentle fist techniques to deliver subtle stings to unsuspecting onlookers. A quick flick of her fingers here, a precise jab there—it was as if invisible bees were attacking those in her way.
The crowd around Hinata reacted, jumping and yelping in surprise as they tried to figure out what had just bitten them. Bewildered, they looked around, expecting to see a swarm of insects or some unseen hornet. All they saw was Hinata, her face masked in a mischievous smirk, leaving them none the wiser as she walked by.
Sakura watched the scene unfold with a mix of shock and begrudged admiration. She couldn't help but admit that Hinata's approach, even if it was a little unconventional was working. With a shrug of her shoulders, Sakura pushed forward, doing her best to keep up with Hinata before the crowd closed the gap she was making.
When there were within a hundred feet of the stage the crowd irrupted in pandemonium as they all heard over the loudspeaker the announcement they all had been waiting for.
"Ladies! and you lowly gentlemen,", laughed the announcer as he yelled over the crowd.
The announcer's voice reverberated through the air, his words shaking the very foundations of the stadium. His enthusiasm reached a fever pitch as he proclaimed in a booming voice, "I wish to welcome to the stage the man of the hour, the greatest author of our time, maybe of all time, the Master of the Shinobi Arts, the wooer of women, the slayer of men, The Great and Powerful Sage of Mount Myōboku, the One, the Only Jiraiya!"
The crowd erupted into an ecstatic frenzy, their cheers echoing through the expansive arena. Hinata found herself swept up in the tidal wave of enthusiasm, her heart pounding in her chest. People around her were jumping, screaming, and even shedding tears of sheer joy at the sight of their idol.
Caught in the midst of the exuberant crowd, Hinata instinctively prepared to employ her formidable skills to clear a path. With her eyes scanning the vicinity for her next target, ready to disable anyone obstructing their way, Sakura's voice cut through the chaos, reaching her ear amidst the deafening cheers.
"Stop it, Hinata! That won't get us any closer at this point," Sakura yelled, her voice piercing through the cacophony. Hinata paused, her gaze locking with Sakura's determined eyes, and she reluctantly lowered her arm, releasing the tension from her tightly coiled muscles.
Meanwhile, behind the stage, a spectacle of epic proportions unfolded. Jiraiya, seated atop the mighty Gamabunta, had made his grand entrance. The Chief Toad transformed into a billowing cloud of smoke, enveloping the stage with an air of mystique. In a perfectly timed maneuver, Jiraiya emerged from the dissipating smoke, seemingly soaring through the air, before gracefully landing at the center of the stage.
With a flourish, Jiraiya snatched the microphone from the stunned announcer's hand, his presence electrifying the atmosphere. The crowd erupted in rapturous applause, screams of adoration, and shouts of devotion. Jiraiya basked in the thunderous acclaim, his charisma shining like a supernova in the night sky.
"People of Hot Springs! Are you ready?" Jiraiya's voice boomed through the speakers, his words penetrating the very souls of his fans. The intensity of his gaze swept across the audience, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes that hinted at the countless tales of adventure and romance he had penned.
The stadium reverberated with the collective excitement of thousands of fans, their anticipation reaching a crescendo. They were ready to be captivated by the enthralling presence of the legendary Jiraiya, eager to be transported into a world of extraordinary shinobi prowess, heart-wrenching love stories, and awe-inspiring adventures.
Jiraiya, the embodiment of charisma, basked in the adulation of his fervent fans. With a flourish of his hand, he acknowledged their undying devotion, his smile captivating hearts, and souls in equal measure. It was a sight to behold as if the very essence of charm had taken physical form. Women began to throw their panties at him and to Sakura's shock a few men.
Hinata and Sakura, hidden among the crowd, exchanged a knowing glance. Despite their own reservations, they couldn't deny the magnetism that surrounded Jiraiya. His presence was larger than life, casting a shadow that seemed to engulf everything in its wake.
"Looks like we've got our work cut out for us," Hinata said looking around to find a way past the fences.
"The race of the year, NO! The race of the decade is about to begin. Who will be the winner and who will be the loser?!" Jiraiya's booming voice reverberated through the stadium, infused with a burst of infectious laughter that had the crowd roaring in merriment.
Hinata and Sakura, determined to get closer to the action, found themselves resorting to unconventional tactics, their desperation bordering on outright mayhem. They skillfully maneuvered through the sea of bodies, narrowly avoiding causing bodily harm to some unsuspecting bystanders. Each step brought them closer to the edge of the stage, where they could catch a glimpse of the enigmatic Jiraiya.
With bated breath, they watched as Jiraiya strolled down the row of eager runners, his presence commanding attention and adoration. The crowd erupted in applause, their cheers merging with Jiraiya's infectious laughter. Hinata and Sakura strained their necks, their hearts racing, until they finally reached the base of the stage. Looking up, they locked eyes with Jiraiya, their gazes filled with a mix of awe and anticipation.
"And now, my dear competitors, I wish you all the luck you deserve!" Jiraiya announced, his voice brimming with mischief. With a dramatic flair, he dropped the microphone on the stage, an audible thud resonating through the air. The crowd exploded with excitement as the racers hurriedly made their way to the starting line, their determination palpable.
Seizing the opportune moment amidst the chaos, Sakura's swift kick shattered a section of the fence, creating an opening large enough for her and Hinata to slip through. With a shared glance, they dashed under the stage, slipping into the backstage area where Jiraiya had retreated.
As they cautiously made their way through the labyrinth under the stage, guided by the distant sounds of revelry and laughter, they eventually stumbled upon a private alcove. And there, in all his flamboyant glory, sat Jiraiya, surrounded by tall, busty blondes, each vying for his attention.
Hinata and Sakura exchanged bemused glances, their eyes widening in disbelief at the sight before them. Jiraiya seemed oblivious to their presence, consumed by the company of his voluptuous companions and a copious amount of alcohol.
To their surprise, Jiraiya turned his head and locked his gaze on them. With a wave of his hand, as if invoking some unseen jutsu, the crowd scattered like frightened animals, leaving Hinata and Sakura standing alone before the legendary figure. The smile on Jiraiya's face faded, replaced by a serious and scrutinizing expression. He gestured for them to come closer, his demeanor shifting from the flamboyant showman to the astute master of espionage.
"Not sure what the old man wants, but why would he send a couple of green genin? He must be getting senile," Jiraiya remarked, his voice dripping with a hint of skepticism. In an instant, he had transformed into the shrewd and perceptive spymaster, leaving no room for frivolity.
Closing the distance, Sakura spoke with conviction, her voice laced with urgency. "Master Jiraiya, the village is under attack by a mysterious chakra fog. It has ensnared everyone in a genjutsu that drains their willpower."
Jiraiya's eyebrow arched as he took a swig from his whiskey bottle, though Sakura suspected it held nothing more than tea. His gaze remained shrewd, his words tinged with skepticism. "And you two happen to be the only ones unaffected by it? I find that hard to believe. Did the old man concoct this as some sort of joke to lure me back?"
Sakura's resolve hardened as she looked Jiraiya straight in the eye. "It's a long and complicated story, but Naruto managed to break free from the genjutsu. We came looking for you, hoping you would help us."
"Naruto is here?" Jiraiya's tone turned grave, a touch of concern seeping through his façade. "That's not good. Whose idiotic idea was it to let him venture out of the village without proper training?"
"Naruto is a formidable shinobi, and he is fighting for our village unlike you, you pervert!" Hinata interjected, surprising Sakura with her fierce defense of Naruto. Her usually snide remarks were replaced by something more caring that seemed to emanate from the very core of her being.
Jiraiya's eyes narrowed as he regarded Hinata, a mix of surprise and curiosity in his gaze. He seemed to see a reflection of someone familiar in her fiery spirit. For a moment, a glimmer of pride and nostalgia flickered across his features, hidden beneath the layers of his hardened exterior.
"You dare to call me a pervert!" Jiraiya's voice thundered with a mix of anger and defiance. His face contorted into a stern expression, his eyes drilling into Hinata with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. "I have dedicated my entire life to serving our village, sacrificing everything and enduring unimaginable hardships. I have witnessed the horrors of war and lost countless comrades, all so that you and future generations could have the luxury of standing here, safe and sound. But let me make one thing clear—I am not just any pervert. I am a super pervert, and proud of it! Don't you ever forget it!"
Hinata stood frozen, her eyes widening in shock at the sheer intensity of Jiraiya's outburst. The weight of his words, the raw emotion behind them, seemed to hang heavy in the air. She had never expected such a vehement response. For a moment, her usual composure wavered, a hint of uncertainty creeping into her expression.
But then, to her surprise, Jiraiya's stern face softened, and a hearty laughter erupted from his lips. The anger dissipated as quickly as it had arisen, replaced by an amused chuckle that filled the space between them. Hinata couldn't help but feel a mixture of relief and confusion at the sudden shift in Jiraiya's demeanor.
"Ah, you've got some fire in you, young lady!" Jiraiya exclaimed, still chuckling. "I guess you're not just another fan girl looking for a husband. I like that spirit. We're going to need it if we're going to complete this mission."
"Mission? What mission?", said Sakura breaking the cold silence.
"My mission. The mayor of the city hired me to find out why the Daimyo's son is placing large bets at every casino that some local nobody will win this race. You can spot him as he is the only one wearing a purple shirt.", said Jiraiya
"That's easy," Sakura replied, her grin widening as she felt a sense of accomplishment in unraveling the mystery. "There are four shinobi in the race, and they were bragging about having a secret plan to win the race."
Jiraiya leaned forward, his curiosity piqued by Sakura's revelation. His eyes narrowed as he processed the information, realizing that his own spies had failed to report anything of the sort.
Sakura proceeded to recount the events of their beachside adventure the previous night, sharing every detail that led them to uncover the presence of these rogue shinobi. Jiraiya, ever the avid writer, couldn't help but jot down a few notes on his pad, already envisioning an exciting new adventure story inspired by their escapades.
"Good work, girls," Jiraiya commended, his tone laced with a hint of approval. "I'm counting on you to put an end to those shinobi's interference. As for me, I have some important business to attend to this afternoon."
Sakura's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and disbelief etching across her face. She stepped forward, standing in Jiraiya's path, determined to stop him. She had always been a strong-willed individual, unwilling to back down even when facing insurmountable odds.
"Wait just a minute," Sakura demanded, her voice filled with a hint of anger. "What exactly do you expect us to do? We need more than vague instructions."
Jiraiya's eyes gleamed with a mischievous twinkle as he towered over Sakura, his imposing figure emphasizing his authority. He gently picked her up by the shoulders, moving her aside like a toy, as he made his way towards the exit.
"I expect you as, loyal Genin of the Leaf Village, to do as you're told," Jiraiya replied, his voice carrying a mix of confidence and expectation. "Stop those shinobi from interfering in the race, and I'll meet you tonight at the Adventurer's Club."
With that, Jiraiya walked out of the room, leaving Sakura momentarily stunned, while the cheers of his fervent fangirls filled the air. Sakura glanced at Hinata, her expression a mixture of shock and resolve, as they prepared to take on this unexpected mission and prove themselves worthy of Jiraiya's trust.
"Come on! What are you waiting for?", said Sakura as she noticed Hinata hadn't moved for the door.
"I can't believe the noble Jiraiya called himself a Super Pervert.", said Hinata
"I don't know what type of man he was in your timeline but he is a super pervert so let's get moving before they get too far ahead of us.", said Sakura pulling Hinata from her frozen stance and out of the back.
Sakura and Hinata ventured deep into the forest, running alone on the tree tops keeping one eye on the racers and their other senses on the surroundings looking for any sign of interference. They knew that they were facing skilled opponents, and the element of surprise was crucial in overcoming them.
Suddenly, a voice echoed through the trees, sending chills down their spines. It was Kenta, a formidable Jonin-ranked shinobi from Kumogakure whom Sakura had had a drink with the other night. His cold, confident demeanor filled the air as he emerged from the shadows above them.
"I heard that Jiraiya was involved but I didn't think he would send his fangirls on a mission to die in his place." Kenta sneered, a sly grin curling on his lips. "But I'm afraid your search ends here. I will make quick work of you both."
Sakura and Hinata exchanged anxious glances, they has assume it would be four Genin in the race, not a Jonin. They knew they had to combine their skills and utilize their unique abilities to defeat Kenta if they expected to survive.
Kenta swiftly unleashed a barrage of lightning-based jutsu, crackling with raw power forcing their father and father from the race. Sakura utilized her expert chakra control to create a protective barrier on her skin to shield herself from the electrifying attacks. Meanwhile, Hinata activated her Byakugan, honing her vision to anticipate Kenta's movements and with uncanny precision avoid most of his attacks and land a few strikes of her own.
Having the river at their back Sakura charged forward with her enhanced strength, delivering powerful blows that shook the tree until they all fell to the ground below. Kenta, impressed but unfazed, deflected her follow-on attacks with swift dodges and counterattacks. He possessed remarkable agility and skill, making it difficult for Sakura to land a solid hit.
Hinata taking a step back observed the battle carefully and analyzed Kenta's fighting style. She recognized his reliance on speed and evasion, and she knew she had to exploit his weaknesses. With her Gentle Fist technique, she struck with surgical precision, targeting Kenta's vital chakra network to disrupt his chakra flow.
As the battle intensified, Kenta unleashed a series of wind-based jutsu, creating turbulent gusts that threatened to knock Sakura and Hinata back into the river. However, they stood their ground holding themselves in place with their chakra, it had been a long time since anyone had pushed them this hard, and Kenta was proving to be a true adversity.
As the battle raged on, Sakura had to utilize her Medical Ninjutsu to bolster her stamina and heal minor injuries. She could see Hinata was doing no better but there was no time or chakra to waste healing her. Hinata's agility and grace were all that she had to evade Kenta's attacks all the while retaliating with precise strikes.
Kenta, growing frustrated with their resilience, decided to unleash his ultimate technique. He summoned a swirling vortex of lightning, intending to engulf Sakura and Hinata in it. But the two kunoichi, driven back to the edge of the river combined their efforts.
Sakura channeled her chakra into a powerful punch, imbuing it with the force of all her remaining chakra. At the same time, Hinata ran to the side to attack with her Gentle Fist technique to disrupt Kenta's chakra network once again, creating an opening for Sakura's attack.
When the lightning vortex broke apart the impact from the blowback was immense. Sakura rushed forward her punch aimed squarely at Kenta's chest, he had a split second to cross his arms over his chest to block the blow but the force of her punch sent shockwaves through his body. He was momentarily incapacitated, his lightning dissipating into thin air.
Breathing heavily, Sakura and Hinata stood before Kenta, their bodies battered and their spirits unyielding. Despite his shattered arms hanging limply at his sides, Kenta's defiance burned in his eyes.
"Very well," Kenta admitted, begrudgingly impressed by their strength. "You two have proven yourselves worthy opponents. But, there are still more of us out there waiting for you. With this amount of money at stake, we cannot afford to lose."
Sakura's mind raced, seeking a decisive move to prevent Kenta from warning the others. Acting on her instincts, she lunged forward, grabbing Kenta by the front of his shirt and hurling him into the rushing river behind her. With a splash, he disappeared beneath the current, destined to reach the ocean in minutes and become fish food if he was lucky.
As the ripples settled and Sakura turned her gaze to Hinata, their shared weariness spoke volumes. Hinata shook her head, her voice strained. "If the other three are as skilled as him, we are facing an uphill battle. I barely have the strength to move."
Sakura's eyes gleamed, she didn't give up this easy. "I know, Hinata. We're outclassed here, and it won't be easy. But we can't back down now. We'll need to rely on our wits and resourcefulness to overcome them."
Their exhaustion momentarily forgotten, Sakura and Hinata retreated to a concealed spot high in the trees, seeking a moment's respite and an opportunity to devise a plan. They knew little about their remaining adversaries, heightening the uncertainty of their mission. But instead of succumbing to doubt, they worked on a plan to take a strategic approach.
"We have to use our surroundings to our advantage," Sakura mused, her voice laced with a spark of creativity. "We'll have to find and exploit any weaknesses we can find and catch them off-guard."
Standing and shielding her eyes with her hand having lost her hat in the battle Sakura looked around recalling the map of the race she had studied.
"if I was going to attack any of the racers and make it look like a natural accident I would do it where the track leaves the forest and begins the climb into the mountains at the base of those cliffs.", she said pointing into the distance.
"OK, sound like as good a plan as any.", said Hinata moving to stand next to Sakura getting ready to leap to the next tree and begin the long run over to the mountains. On any other day, this would take minutes but in their current state, Hinata wondered if she could make it at all.
"Hold on,", said Sakura as she dug around in one of her pant pockets. "You know, I used to tell my students that using these is cheating and you need to learn to use your natural resources.", said Sakura reminding Hinata that she was much older than the young teenage girl standing next to her.
Holding out her hand Sakura dropped two chakra pills in Hinata's palm before taking one herself. "They will last the day but we are going to pay for it in the morning.", she added watching Hinata force one down.
The effect of the pills took only a few minutes and as the rush of chakra made their heads spin they started the run to the cliff face hoping to find and stop any shinobi from attacking the racers as they entered the mountain.
You know," Hinata said, her voice tinged with tension as they leaped from tree to tree, "I didn't spot that Jonin among the racers. Looks like there are still four shinobi in the race."
Sakura landed on a branch, her expression guarded. "And what kind of shinobi are we dealing with? Did you get a sense of their strength?"
Hinata's gaze narrowed, her tone wary. "Their chakra was kept low, making it difficult to assess their true power. But unless they're masters of chakra suppression, I'd say they're likely Genin."
"Good," Sakura replied, a touch of apprehension in her voice. Facing off against Genin would be challenging enough, let alone going up against Jonin during a marathon. She only had four chakra pills left, and it wouldn't be enough for a prolonged battle.
Sakura took a deep breath, mustering the courage to bring up the topic that had been gnawing at her. "Thanks for defending Naruto back there," she said, her voice laced with underlying tension. She watched Hinata closely, hoping for some kind of reaction.
Hinata's gaze shifted away, her expression guarded. "It was nothing," she replied coolly, barely masking the confusion in her voice.
Sakura pressed on, her voice revealing her inner turmoil. "So, what happened between you two last night? I heard you went out with Naruto, and things got... intense?"
Hinata's face flushed, a mix of embarrassment and uncertainty crossing her features. "We... went bar hopping, looking for Jiraiya. I might have had a few too many drinks, and... we ended up kissing. A lot. But honestly, I can't remember much. It's all a blur."
Sakura's eyes narrowed, a flicker of jealousy and frustration shining through. "A blur, huh? And Naruto... Did he seem different?"
Hinata nodded, her voice tinged with confusion. "Yes, it felt like he was preoccupied with someone else at first, but... I don't know. It was good, I guess, but to be honest, he wasn't a skilled kisser."
Sakura's jaw clenched, her voice laced with bitterness. "I see... so you have a lot of experience with kissing, then."
Hinata glanced at Sakura, her eyes widening in surprise. Shaking her head, she let out a chuckle. "Oh, Sakura, what's gotten into you? I was almost 28 years old in my timeline. I've had more than a few lovers if you must know."
Sakura's cheeks flushed crimson, her gaze averted. "I... I didn't mean to assume. It's just... Naruto... I thought he was special to you."
Seeing Sakura turning bright red and looking away, Hinata couldn't help but notice her discomfort. "Wait, don't tell me that Naruto was the only one you've been with? I can't believe that."
Sakura sighed, her voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and longing. "No, he's not. In the future... in my timeline, Naruto and I were together. We were even married."
Hinata's eyes widened, her confusion growing. "Married? But you and Naruto... I never would have imagined..."
Sakura interrupted a hint of sadness in her voice. "I know, it's complicated. I went back in time, and everything changed. Naruto and I... we were never together in this timeline. It's as if our entire relationship was erased."
Hinata tried to comprehend the situation, with a mixture of empathy and uncertainty in her expression. "So, how do you feel about Naruto now? If you were married in your timeline, it must be difficult for you."
Sakura turned her gaze away, her voice barely audible as she spoke. "I'm not quite sure... It's all a bit confusing. I do still have strong feelings for Naruto, but I can't determine how he feels about me in this timeline. It feels like we're starting from square one, and I don't want to risk damaging our friendship by introducing complications." Sakura skillfully masked her true intentions, attempting to hide her overwhelming desire to win Naruto back.
"Don't think I haven't noticed how you stare at him with those dreamy eyes of yours, just go for it if that is what you want.", said Hinata in a flare of anger, Hinata didn't know why but the idea of Sakura with Naruto was making her boil.
Sakura's eyes narrowed, her voice tinged with a hint of defiance. "You think it's that easy, Hinata? Just go after Naruto without considering the consequences?"
Hinata's gaze hardened, her words laced with anger. "I never said it would be easy, Sakura. But if I want Naruto, I won't back down either. I won't let anyone stand in my way, not even you."
Sakura's fists clenched, her voice dripping with frustration. "You've always been the quiet one, Hinata. But don't think for a second that I won't fight tooth and nail for what I want. Naruto means everything to me, and I won't give up."
Hinata's eyes flashed with a glimmer of challenge. "Quiet? You have me confused with your timeline's Hinata, if I want something I go for it and I always get what I want."
Their words hung in the air, thick with tension and unspoken rivalry. Each is determined to stake their claim on Naruto's heart, but unwilling to tell the other their true feelings. The battle for love had begun but was it too late, has Ino staked her claim already?
…..
At the cliffside, Sakura moved a branch out of the way, allowing her to get a clear view of the race track below, which soon led up to a rocky trail toward the mountaintop. "Do you see anything?" she asked Hinata, who activated her Byakugan to scan the area.
"The lead runner will be here in a minute, but I don't see anybody else," Hinata replied, her Byakugan providing her with enhanced vision.
As the lead runner came into view, a large rock suddenly started bouncing down the side of the mountain, gaining speed and appearing to be guided by an unseen force toward the runner. Reacting swiftly, Sakura dropped to the ground and ran over to the side of the trail, grabbing a fallen tree trunk as she went.
Just as the rock was about to leap off the cliff and pose a serious threat to the runner's life, Sakura hurled the log with all her strength, deflecting the boulder off to the side. The runner, startled by the sound, looked around but couldn't see anyone. Relieved, they continued on their way, determined to win the race and fulfill their dreams.
Hinata joined Sakura, both of them realizing that there was someone else involved, someone who had triggered the rock to target the runner. Sakura turned to Hinata, asking, "Did you see where that came from?"
Hinata nodded, her Byakugan still active. "Yes, there's somebody up on the ridge line."
"Let's go get them," Sakura said, her voice filled with determination. They knew they had to act quickly before the rest of the runners reached that part of the trail.
They swiftly began running up the side of the cliffs, using their ninja skills to scale the steep terrain. Hinata used her Byakugan to track the movements of the mysterious shinobi running along the ridge, constantly scanning for an opportunity to strike. Meanwhile, Sakura followed closely behind, ready to provide support and launch her attack from behind.
Hinata ran ahead and blocked the Kunoichi's path making them stop and take a defensive stance, seeing Hinata hesitate she yelled out. "Get out of my way you leaf loser, I am Kira of Kumogakure and I will be your death." Kira rushed headlong at Hinata her hands sparking with lightning.
The mysterious shinobi now revealed as Kira, exhibited impressive agility and quick reflexes. She utilized a combination of ninjutsu and taijutsu, seamlessly weaving through the air and striking with swift, calculated precision. A surge of electricity crackled through her fists as she delivered a powerful blow that sent Hinata staggering backward, perilously close to the edge of the cliff.
Hinata fought to regain her footing, her will to fight to shine through the pain. She activated her Byakugan, scanning Kira's movements with heightened clarity. With a surge of chakra, she launched a swift and precise assault, aiming to exploit any opening in Kira's defenses. However, Kira's agility and cunning allowed her to evade most of Hinata's attacks, swiftly countering with her formidable techniques. Causing Hinata to fall off the edge allowing Kira to focus all her energy on Sakura.
Kira unleashed a series of lightning-fast attacks, her body moving like a blur. She relied on her Lightning Style jutsu, generating electric currents that crackled around her fists, amplifying the impact of her strikes. Sakura adapted quickly, showcasing her keen observation skills and using her medical ninjutsu to heal some of her more painful cuts before moving to the attack. She identified an opening in Kira's defense and capitalized on it. With precise timing, Sakura utilized her Cherry Blossom Impact jutsu blinding Kira, and unleashing a flurry of powerful punches that sent shockwaves rippling through the air. The impact of Sakura's attack momentarily stunned Kira, creating an opportunity for Hinata to climb back up and launch a counterstrike.
As Hinata activated her Byakugan, her pale eyes radiated with intensity. With her heightened perception, she analyzed Kira's movements and pinpointed her weak points. Hinata swiftly maneuvered around Kira as she attacked Sakura, utilizing her Gentle Fist technique to strike at Kira's chakra points, disrupting her flow and sapping her energy.
The battle continued each move and countermove a testament to the skill of all three combatants. Kira, refusing to yield, launched a barrage of lightning-infused projectiles, the shurikens sparked flying at Hinata as she attempted to catch Hinata and Sakura off guard. The kunoichi, though momentarily overwhelmed, demonstrated their resilience and resourcefulness. They employed evasion techniques, narrowly dodging the lightning shurikens while seeking opportunities to counterattack.
Hinata and Sakura learned the hard way they are not invincible but relied on their strengths and the power of teamwork to overcome their opponent's relentless assault. Their coordination and synchronization, though not flawless, allowed them to anticipate each other's movements and create openings for decisive strikes.
Amidst the chaos of the battle, Sakura's voice rang out, her words echoing through the clash of combat. "Hinata, we can't falter now. We have to push through and bring an end to Kira. The safety of the runners and the success of the race depend on us."
Hinata, her breathing labored and her body battered, nodded in agreement. She met Sakura's gaze, her own eyes burning with a mix of pain and resolve. "You're right, Sakura. We can't let up. Let's show her the strength of the Hidden Leaf Village."
Hinata and Sakura pressed forward, their attacks growing more precise and calculated. The battle reached its climax as the kunoichi launched a synchronized assault, combining their respective techniques. Hinata's Gentle Fist strikes synchronized with Sakura's devastating punches, overwhelming Kira with a barrage of blows as the Kumogakure Kunoichi ran out of chakra.
Finally, unable to withstand the combined might of Hinata and Sakura, Kira's defenses crumbled. Exhausted and defeated, she fell to the ground, her body bruised and battered. Unable to stand on the broken leg she fell to the ground. The battle had come to an end
"I hate Kumo shinobi. ", said Sakura between deep breaths, his hands glowing as she closed a deep cut along her leg.
"You would have never defeated me alone, you leaf pig. I will never stop. This mission means too much to me and..." Kira's words were abruptly cut off as Hinata swiftly approached her from behind, delivering a powerful and precise strike to the back of her head. Kira's arrogant rant ended abruptly, her body collapsing to the ground.
Sakura grinned at Hinata's decisive action. "You sure know how to shut someone up. Ready to move on to the next one?"
Hinata's expression remained stoic, showing no signs of weakness or hesitation. She nodded, "I'm good. Let's go.", she agreed with Sakura that Kumo nins were the worst as they killed her uncle and it felt good to get a little more payback.
Looking down, Sakura and Hinata could see the pack of runners tightly grouped as they made their way up the mountain. The purple-shirted runner stood out among them, struggling to make any progress. The race had few rules, and the runners resorted to using elbows and any means necessary to keep others from passing.
"Looks like a chaotic battlefield down there," Sakura remarked, jogging along the cliff edge, keeping an eye out for an opportunity to descend.
Hinata focused her Byakugan, observing the leader who was a significant distance ahead of the pack. He seemed like an obvious target. She glanced back at Sakura, seeking her attention, and then accelerated, swiftly catching up to the leader before leaping off the cliff. Hinata landed just ahead of him, out of sight.
Sakura joined Hinata, their eyes fixed on the leader. "If we can match his pace, we'll be able to anticipate the next attack," Hinata explained.
Before Sakura could respond, screams echoed from behind them, beyond the leader. Hearing the commotion, the leader picked up his speed, fear serving as his motivator.
"Oh no, do you think they attacked the entire pack?" Sakura's yelled as she ran up the cliff face, heading back to investigate. Hinata, utilizing her Byakugan, could see that half of the runners were lying on the ground, while the others sprinted towards her. It looked like the side of the cliff had fallen just as they passed by cutting the legs out from under them.
In an instant, Hinata's sharp gaze caught sight of the purple-shirted runner amidst the fallen racers. It became apparent that he had swiftly maneuvered ahead, securing the fourth position while the leader maintained a significant lead. Assessing her surroundings, Hinata could see the signs of a meticulously laid trap, with the shinobi responsible now laying face down on the top of the mountain.
As Sakura tended to the injured, Hinata observed the determination of those who defiantly rose to their feet, some covered in blood, their own, and others as they were driven by the need to win the prize of a lifetime. Despite the wounds they bore, they persisted, pushing their limits.
Hinata made her decision. She would run forward, surpassing the current leader, and scout the path ahead for any hidden snares or unforeseen threats. She hoped Sakura would join her after she cared for the fallen.
Hinata pushed herself forward as she swiftly surpassed the current race leader, her keen eyes scouring the path ahead for any concealed dangers or hidden obstacles. She hoped Sakura would eventually join her once she tended to the fallen runners.
Bounding along the edge of the cliff, Hinata left the leader in her wake, gracefully leaping down into the thick underbrush as the tree line emerged at the end of the ravine. The winding trail through the dense conifer forest promised a challenging journey ahead, with countless twists and turns before the descent back to the ocean and the frenzied sprint along the river's edge.
Utilizing her Byakugan, Hinata diligently surveyed her surroundings, seeking out any lurking shinobi. Spotting a concealed figure along the race track, she stealthily closed in from behind.
A swift, well-placed strike rendered the shinobi unconscious, and Hinata discreetly dragged them out of sight. She swiftly disabled the trap they had set, ensuring the safety of the remaining runners. With two adversaries neutralized, she knew only two more threats remained. With calculated precision, she delivered precise kicks that shattered both of their legs, effectively incapacitating them. Unless they had a medical ninja on their team, they would be unable to interfere in the race any further.
Remaining low to the ground, Hinata utilized the natural cover of the trees as she cautiously moved alongside the track, meticulously scanning for additional traps or hidden foes. She was determined to clear the path for the remaining runners and shield them from any further harm. This mission had gone on too long and she was going to put an end to it as quickly and quietly as possible.
The next shinobi lay on the ground, holding a rope in their hands instead of the expected trip wire. It was an unusual choice, and even the most distracted runner would notice it in their path. As Hinata approached cautiously, ready to strike, the shinobi suddenly rolled over and unleashed a powerful lightning blast directly at her chest. The impact sent her flying up into the air and crashing hard into a nearby tree.
Gasping for breath and with her muscles twitching from the attack, Hinata's vision blurred as she struggled to regain her feet. The shinobi's mocking voice echoed through her ears as he taunted her, belittling her appearance.
"You think I didn't hear your fat footsteps behind me?" he sneered. "Look at you, with those udders. Are you a cow or something? I prefer a girl with a little meat on the bones, not a top-heavy bitch like you."
Hinata gritted her teeth, her anger pushing back the pains she still was not able to fight back. She knew she needed to buy herself some time, and if this shinobi was anything like the others, he was likely a talker.
"FAT?" she spat, launching a punch at him to create some distance. "I am more woman than you could ever handle. Or perhaps you prefer little boys, you Kumo pig."
As her vision cleared, Hinata could see the shinobi performing hand signs, indicating his prowess as a lightning user like the previous opponents. Seizing the opportunity, Hinata feigned fear, curling up into a defensive position to lure him in. Unbeknownst to him, she had cleverly attached a wire to a kunai, securing it deep into the ground and concealing the other end in her grip.
"I'm going to fry you, you cow!" he taunted with a malicious grin, confident in his abilities.
Hinata, fueled by a mix of fear and rage, shouted back at him. "You despicable pervert! You wouldn't dare."
Just as he finished the final hand sign for his jutsu, Hinata swiftly threw the kunai past him, causing the attached wire to wrap tightly around his body. The moment the lightning surged, she deftly rolled out of harm's way, allowing the electric current to travel down the wire and dissipate into the ground. With his arms trapped and unable to stop the drain of his chakra, the shinobi was rendered powerless and defeated.
Breathing heavily, Hinata swiftly spun on the ground, sweeping her leg to knock the shinobi's legs out from under him. Despite her unsteady legs, she stood tall, glaring down at him. Hatred emanated from his eyes, while the feedback from the lightning jutsu caused his body to convulse uncontrollably.
"Leaf Bitch, I'm going to kill you," he spat out, his voice filled with venomous rage. He believed that the seemingly weak-minded Leaf shinobi would leave him tied up and move on.
Hinata, fueled by newfound strength and determination, tightly gripped the wire in her hand and retrieved the kunai from the ground. She approached him with a cold determination, her voice low and menacing.
"Bitch? You have no idea," she responded with an edge in her voice. With a swift and merciless motion, Hinata dropped to her knees and drove the kunai deep into his chest. His eyes widened in surprise and disbelief as his life force extinguished in an instant.
Hinata drained from the intense battle, found herself unable to stand on her own. She leaned on the lifeless body of her fallen adversary, seeking support and trying to gather the strength to stand upright as she rolled to a sitting position. Fatigue coursed through her body, threatening to overwhelm her.
Gazing at the lifeless eyes of her defeated foe, Hinata felt a surge of mixed emotions within her. There was no remorse in her heart for the life she had just taken, but a lingering sense of caution remained. She knew that in the world of shinobi, vengeance, and grudges could linger long after a battle had ended.
Leaning on the dead body for support, Hinata couldn't help but wonder if her actions would invite retaliation. In this unforgiving world, she had seen firsthand the cycle of violence that could consume even the strongest of shinobi. Her mind briefly flashed with images of enemies seeking revenge.
With a deep breath, Hinata summoned her inner strength. Despite her exhaustion, she knew she couldn't remain there, leaning on the lifeless body any longer. She had to press on, find her strength, and continue the fight.
Summoning every ounce of willpower within her, Hinata slowly pushed herself away from the fallen shinobi. Her legs quivered with exhaustion, and she struggled to maintain her balance. With sheer determination, she managed to stand upright, albeit with great difficulty.
She stumbled towards the nearby tree and leaned against it, her body ravaged by pain and fatigue. As the rush of adrenaline subsided, the harsh reality of her injuries crashed upon her like an unforgiving wave, flooding her with a deep sense of concern. She winced as she examined the tree branch protruding from her side, the wound oozing blood that stained her clothes and the ground beneath her.
"This... this is bad," she muttered through gritted teeth, fully aware of the gravity of her condition. Regret washed over her as she chastised herself for not being better prepared, for embarking on this mission without the essential supplies to tend to her wounds. It was meant to be a simple search for that old pervert, not a life-or-death battle against the Komo Nin.
As the pain intensified and weakness engulfed her, doubt and fear clawed at her. The shadow of defeat loomed, and uncertainty threatened to overpower her. Hinata's heart trembled, wondering if this nameless forest would be the place where her journey would end, alone and forgotten.
…..
Running along the race track, Sakura's heart pounded with anticipation as she scoured the area for any signs of their adversaries. It didn't take long for her to spot a fallen figure—a Komo Nin with two broken legs lying on the ground. Surprisingly, he was still alive, left to his fate by Hinata after their earlier encounter. Sakura made a mental note of his presence but decided to press on in search of her teammate.
As she continued, the distinct scent of blood permeated the air, guiding Sakura toward Hinata's location. There she found her, unconscious and leaning against a tree, her hand desperately trying to stem the bleeding from a deep wound. Reacting swiftly, Sakura approached Hinata, immediately removing the tree branch that had pierced her side. Blood flowed freely, signaling the severity of the injury.
Sakura's green eyes narrowed as she assessed the situation. She knew she needed to act quickly. With skilled hands and a surge of chakra, Sakura used her medical expertise to seal the wound temporarily, providing some respite from the bleeding. It was a temporary fix, but it would buy them time until they could fully address Hinata's internal injuries.
Gently supporting Hinata's weakened form, Sakura's voice trembled with concern as she whispered words of reassurance. She understood the gravity of the situation but determined to protect her teammate, Sakura carefully lifted Hinata into her arms, cradling her with a mixture of tenderness and strength. Now was not the time to think of Naruto and Hinata kissing, all of her medical training told her she had very little time to deal with Hinata's wound.
"Fuck this stupid mission," Sakura exclaimed, her voice filled with frustration and determination as she sprinted toward the end of the race. The well-being of Hinata meant more to her than any financial concerns of a Daimyo.
Hinata, her head resting on Sakura's shoulder, couldn't help but question her actions. Weak and still recovering, she wondered why Sakura was deviating from the mission objective.
"What are you doing?" Hinata managed to utter, her voice weak and filled with confusion.
Sakura's response was resolute and unwavering. "Starting line, medical tent," she replied, her words focused and purposeful. She knew they needed immediate medical attention for Hinata's sake.
Hinata tried to emphasize the importance of completing the mission, but Sakura was unyielding. "Fuck the mission. I am not letting you die," Sakura declared, determination burning in her eyes. She refused to entertain any notion that could put Hinata's life at risk.
"Sakura... The mission is to not let the Purple guy win," Hinata said, her voice carrying a newfound clarity as if an epiphany had struck her from beyond.
A wicked grin crept across Sakura's face as she adjusted her course, drawing nearer to the final segment of the race track. She spotted the purple-shirted leader, the previous frontrunner nowhere in sight, and a group of runners trailing just a body length behind.
They wanted to play dirty, and Sakura was ready to play dirty in return. Being married to the most unpredictable prankster had taught her a few lessons in cunning and strategy. With a mix of determination and mischief, Sakura prepared to unleash her brand of chaos upon the race.
Placing Hinata down out of sight, Sakura swiftly made her way to the edge of the race track. Standing tall, she positioned herself in clear view of all the approaching runners as they rounded a bend. Drawing inspiration from Naruto's teachings, she decided to employ a simple yet effective genjutsu - the "Sexy Jutsu."
With a mischievous grin, Sakura unleashed her transformation, morphing into a stunning naked blonde bombshell. She let out a seductive, playful yell, jumping up and down provocatively in front of the unsuspecting runners. Her alluring voice rang out, capturing their attention.
"Hey, boys! I can't wait to give you your first prize," she called out in the most enticing tone they had ever heard. The lead runner couldn't resist the distraction, turning his head to catch a glimpse. In that split second of distraction, he tripped on his own feet, setting off a domino effect as the entire pack stumbled and tumbled to the ground, tangled in a chaotic mess.
As they scrambled to untangle themselves and regain their footing, the next group of runners swiftly overtook them, speeding towards the final turn on their path to victory. Sakura stepped back, satisfied with the outcome of her playful interference, and watched the runners disappear into the distance.
"Come on, Hinata. Let's get you the medical attention you need," Sakura said, her voice filled with concern as she gently picked up her injured comrade. With Hinata in her arms, she swiftly crossed the river, following the clear markers that led to the designated medical tent.
….
Its to hot to say anything at this point ;-)
