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Note: Thanks to all those that reviewed, you are the reason I wrote this chapter so fast so keep it up.
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Hinata Awakens
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Time, it was a river with endless branches, each a what-if, a chance encounter, or a friendly hello all having the same weight of change in the stream of time. Hinata knew this but was willing to take the chance, no the hope that she would be able to not only change the flow of time but to remove one of its darkest branches. The evil that destroyed her world, her life had to be removed from its roots before it had a chance to grow into the monster she almost married.
Hinata's heart pounded in her chest as she stood at the precipice of time itself. The weight of her past, the pain that gnawed at her soul, fueled her determination. Time, the ever-flowing river, was the solution to the answers she sought. It was a river of regrets, missed opportunities, and shattered dreams. But now, Hinata was ready to alter its course.
With every fiber of her being, Hinata vowed to confront the darkness that had consumed her world. The evil that had razed her life to ruins. The monster she had come dangerously close to marrying. She couldn't let it escape the clutches of time, couldn't let it infect all other branches of existence with its vile presence. It needed to die, die at the root so its branch would never grow.
As Hinata stepped into the turbulent currents of time, she spread her arms wide, welcoming the rush of energy that surged through her veins. It was a bittersweet sensation, knowing that she was about to embark on a treacherous journey to hunt down the malevolence that had tormented her existence. This was no ordinary mission; it was her personal vendetta against the very forces that had stripped away her happiness.
With every step forward, her resolve grew stronger, fueled by the flames of vengeance that burned within her. No one and nothing would stand in her way, not even the love of her life that had betrayed her, leaving her heart shattered and consumed by an abyss of hate. The once timid and shy girl had shed her old skin, now reborn as a fierce and unyielding warrior, driven solely by the pursuit of justice.
Her path was fraught with peril, but Hinata was undeterred. She vowed to leave no stone unturned, to meticulously sift through the fragments of time until she found her target. Every moment, every memory would be scrutinized and unraveled to expose the darkness that had tainted her world.
No longer bound by the constraints of her former self, Hinata embraced her darker instincts. The tenderness and compassion she once possessed were overshadowed by an unwavering determination, an unyielding resolve to exact retribution. She had become the embodiment of her deepest desires, a force to be reckoned with.
Time itself trembled as Hinata embarked on her crusade. The currents swirled around her, whispering secrets of forgotten moments, times of hope, of love, of dreams fulfilled, and the laughter of children that would now never be but she remained resolute. Her heart, once filled with love and warmth, was now consumed by a burning fire of vengeance. There would be no mercy, no hesitation. The very fabric of time would bear witness to her unwavering pursuit, as Hinata tore through the tapestry of existence, determined to bring justice to the one that had wronged her.
Hinata opened her eyes and looked at the plain white ceiling of her childhood room. Sitting up she looked to her lap as she clucked the black and red Scroll of Time she used to travel so far. It sizzled and burned in her hands until in a flash of black smoke it turned to dust to cover her once white sheets with its stain of finality.
'It is done', she thought kicking the blacken-stained sheets away and almost falling onto the floor as she found her younger self's body was not how she remembered it.
'Short, I am so short,', she thought as she moved around the room looking at all the plainness of it all. Where are the toys, the girly makeup, and the pictures she remembered? Moving to open the wardrobe she was shocked to see a dozen copies of the same outfit, an oversized cream-colored hooded jacket with a fire symbol on the upper sleeves and fur around the cuffs and hem. She could only find loose-fitting navy blue pants neatly folded on the shelves. She moved things around looking for her fingerless gloves, and silver wristbands. There was no way she was going out in the heat wearing that fur-lined coat, where is her mesh halter-top and a light jacket, what hell hole in time did she fall into she thought as she pulled everything out of the wardrobe dropping things on the floor in a pile.
"Hinata, are you ready, we must meet our teams at The Forest of Death gates in 30 minutes.", said Neji through the door as he waited for her to join him. It was his duty to ensure she joined her team.
"Fucking hell!" Hinata seethed in her mind as she hastily threw on whatever clothes she could find. Grateful for the meager protection of a mesh-armored undershirt, she grabbed her weapon pouch and swiftly pulled out a kunai, slicing the legs of her pants to turn them into shorts that wouldn't suffocate her.
Ripping open the door, she came face to face with Neji, his normally composed expression replaced with a look of shock. There stood Hinata, no longer the shy little girl he once knew, her coat hanging open to reveal her womanly figure. Her legs were practically bare, with those unacceptable shorts that screamed defiance, and her hair, usually so prim and proper, cascaded down her back in a wild ponytail.
"What?" she snapped at Neji's stunned silence. "You said we had to fucking go. So let's fucking go!" Pushing him aside, she stormed out of the house, taking in the familiar surroundings. Everything seemed the same, except for the flower garden missing outside the main hall. As Neji hurried to catch up, Hinata broke into a full-on sprint, her determination burning bright. She remembered all too well that the Forest of Death was the time when that bastard revealed his true power, and now it was her chance to strike before he grew even stronger. If she had to leave his lifeless body behind, she'd pin the blame on one of those foreign teams once they stumbled upon the gruesome scene.
Entering the field in front of the gates, Hinata was taken aback by the large number of teams and onlookers casually milling about, as if this were a casual Sunday picnic. Didn't they realize that half of them would end up wounded or worse by the end of the second portion of the exam? The debriefing had been crystal clear in the first exam, after all.
"Hinata! Over here!" Kiba's voice boomed, cutting through the crowd. Hinata made her way toward him, noticing the surprise in his eyes as he took in her new look.
"Wow, I'm digging the new look," he exclaimed, flashing her a wide grin as he shamelessly checked her out from head to toe.
Hinata rolled her eyes, not in the mood for Kiba's antics. "Keep it in check, dog boy," she retorted, brushing off his comment as she scanned the area, searching for her target.
Just then, Shino stepped forward, his composed presence drawing her attention. He had always been perceptive and now was no exception.
"Hinata-san," Shino began, his voice steady and thoughtful, "I have a question. I can't help but notice that you don't seem well. Is everything alright?"
Hinata's focus remained divided, her mind on the mission ahead. She responded without paying much attention to her teammate's concerns.
"I'm doing fine," she replied, her gaze darting across the crowd. "And you? How are you holding up?"
Shino's response reflected his unwavering dedication.
"My own well-being is inconsequential right now," he replied calmly. "But I couldn't help but notice the changes in your appearance. Are there any specific difficulties or concerns you're facing?"
Hinata, still scanning the area, replied absentmindedly.
"I have my own reasons for this change," she said, her voice cold and calculating. "But right now, I'm focused on something." or someone she thought as she continued to scan the area not wanting to use her Byakugan and draw more attention to herself.
Shino observed her with his customary analytical gaze, knowing that Hinata had her own way of dealing with things. The change was way outside her normal patents and he was beginning to think someone was taking her place. Sending out his kikaichu they quickly returned to inform him that it was Hinata standing before him.
"I understand," he acknowledged. "Just remember, if you ever need support or someone to talk to, I'm here for you."
Hinata nodded, appreciating Shino's concern and support.
"I appreciate that, Shino. Let's focus on the task at hand. We have an exam to finish," she said, her gaze finally settling on her target in the distance after all who could miss all that orange?
….
"Did you see the look on his face when you stood up to him.", said Ino as she hovered over Naruto.
"Back up Ino-pig, go stand with your team.", said Sakura getting between Ino and Naruto.
"The loser didn't even answer one question.", said Sasuke as he checked each blade in his arsenal, even with his eyes he knew that a dull blade was useless much like his teammates.
"Shut up Sasuke.", both girls yelled at him as they went back glaring lighting bolts at each other.
Naruto for his part tried to stay out of their way. He remembered what Iruka sensei told him when they went to Ichiraku Ramen once he was out of the hospital.
…..
"Iruka-sensei, can I ask you something?" Naruto blurted out, his ramen bowl now empty and eagerly awaiting his next serving. Meanwhile, Iruka was still working on his first bowl, secretly hoping he had enough money on him to cover the upcoming meal.
"Sure, Naruto, what's on your mind?" Iruka responded, hoping that Naruto's question would keep him occupied and away from emptying his wallet further.
"Ino and Sakura have been acting really weird lately. What should I do?" Naruto asked, seeing Iruka as the older brother he never had. To Naruto, Iruka was a well of wisdom, and he believed that Iruka was always right.
Recalling his own failed relationships, Iruka put down his chopsticks and turned to Naruto with a serious expression.
"Women, Naruto... They're crazy," Iruka said, his voice filled with solemnity. "They change their minds as quickly as the wind and teenage girls are even worse."
"Really?" Naruto's eyes widened with fascination. He hung onto Iruka's every word. "So, what should I do?"
Iruka, a proud member of the eternal confirmed bachelor club, looked at Naruto and said with unwavering conviction, "You're too young for girls, Naruto. If you want to become Hokage, my recommendation is to ignore them completely."
"What?" Naruto exclaimed, bouncing in his seat. "But I like Sakura! I want to go on a date with her!"
Iruka sighed, knowing full well that Naruto had never received 'The Talk'.
"Naruto, do you know what a date really is?" Iruka asked, bracing himself for Naruto's response.
"Yeah! It's when you go places with someone and have fun doing stuff," Naruto replied, beaming at the idea of having someone to enjoy fun activities with.
Anticipating Naruto's answer, Iruka shook his head and continued, "That's called hanging out with a friend, Naruto. You can have Ino and Sakura as friends at the same time. But a date is more of a boy-girl thing. You can only have one girl at a time, and by the end of the date, your wallet will be empty."
"What?!" Naruto exclaimed, clutching his toad wallet in shock. "But why?"
"That's just how dates work," Iruka explained. "Now, my advice is to tell them that you can be friends. It'll save you a lot of heartache and money."
Naruto's face fell, disappointment evident in his eyes. He realized that the path to becoming Hokage might not be as straightforward as he thought, especially when it came to matters of the heart.
"Friendship... huh?" Naruto muttered, contemplating Iruka's advice. "Alright, Iruka-sensei, I'll take your word for it. But I still think it would be cool to go on a date someday."
Iruka smiled, patting Naruto on the back.
"Just focus on being the best shinobi you can be, Naruto. Once your Hokage the rest will fall into place," he said, hoping that his well-intentioned guidance would help Naruto navigate the tricky world of romance, one ramen bowl at a time.
…
Now, looking up at the platform, Naruto noticed that the mysterious woman was about to speak. "Hey, you crazy snake lady! Are we going to do something or what?" Naruto yelled out, his eagerness to prove himself as the future Hokage radiating through his words.
Without seeming to look, the snake lady, known as Anko, swiftly threw a kunai at Naruto. However, Ino, who had anticipated the attack, quickly intercepted it with her own kunai, deflecting it into the nearby forest.
"Nice move there, blonde," Anko commented, acknowledging Ino's quick reflexes. "Now listen up, all you aspiring ninjas. This is the Forest of Death, and your mission is to survive and collect one of each of these scrolls," she declared, holding up a scroll in each hand.
"Each team will start with one scroll. Your task is to obtain the other scroll by any means necessary and bring both scrolls to the tower located in the middle of the Forest of Death," Anko continued, her voice echoing through the area as chūnin distributed the scrolls among the teams.
"After five days, any team that is not inside the tower with the two scrolls will be disqualified. Any team missing members will be disqualified. And any team with a deceased member will also be disqualified! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!" Anko shouted, emphasizing the consequences of failure, not wanting to witness another team dragging in a lifeless body just to qualify.
"Yes!" the Genin responded in unison, their voices filled with determination, though some of them bickered over who would carry the scroll.
"See you in the tower," Ino said, giving Naruto a wink before heading off to find her team.
"Bitch," Sakura muttered under her breath as she handed the scroll to Sasuke. If someone was going to be a target, she thought, it should be him.
"Do you have a plan?" Naruto asked as they gathered in front of their assigned gate, eager to strategize.
"Yes, stay out of my way this time, loser," Sasuke retorted, recalling how Naruto had saved him during the Wave mission, just before he had a chance to unleash his new eyes on the ice bitch turned dude.
"I think you should create multiple clones and send them out around us as a screen to locate the other teams," Sakura suggested, her mind filled with reflections on the mistakes they had made during their first encounter with the Forest of Death. Avoiding Orochimaru would be their greatest challenge this time around.
As the resounding horn pierced the air, the gates spun open and the team dashed into the dense forest, leaving the safety of the tree line behind. Naruto wasted no time, summoning a small army of clones to aid in their mission. Clones of vibrant orange hues multiplied, filling the forest with their energetic presence.
Naruto's clones dispersed in all directions, their footsteps blending with the rustling of leaves. With each clone's departure, Naruto's focus intensified. Having absorbed Sakura's and Ino's guidance on clone management, he understood the importance of paying attention to their memories. He had learned that he could retain the memories of individual clones before they dissipated, but too many at once overwhelmed his senses.
"Alright, guys, go out and locate any other teams!" Naruto commanded his small army, his voice echoing through the forest. The clones saluted in unison, their identical voices filled with unwavering loyalty, and scattered into the thick foliage.
"One... two... five clones focus on those," Naruto muttered to himself, mentally preparing to navigate the flood of memories. He had learned he could clearly remember up to five clones at once before he had to just push all the others aside.
With a surge of determination, Naruto pushed aside any doubts and distractions, immersing himself in the moment. Each clone that dispersed became a beacon of information, a fragment of his presence scattered throughout the forest. As the clones scoured the area, Naruto absorbed their experiences, focusing on the crucial details that would aid them to find friends or foes.
Amidst the whirlwind of activity, as memories of being eaten to being stabbed by foreign shinobi flooded in one by one, Naruto couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. This was his chance to prove himself, to showcase the growth he had achieved. With Sakura's teachings and Ino's training etched in his mind, he was ready to seize this challenge and show all those that doubted him that he would be Hokage one day.
…...
"I don't get it, why are we tracking our own team?" Kiba questioned, brushing himself off as he stood up after sniffing the ground for any signs. They had been searching all day with little success, and it was time for the pack to find a spot to rest.
Hinata, positioned in a tree above Kiba, activated her Byakugan, scanning their surroundings. The abundance of wild animals and dense chakra-filled forest made it difficult for her to see clearly. The lingering chakra residue from the forest's creation hindered her abilities, nullifying the advantage of her family's bloodline. Now she understood why this place was chosen as a training ground.
"I told you they have the other scroll and are an easy target," Hinata said, deceiving her teammates.
Shino, his cloud of kikaichu returning from their hunt, responded with a logical perspective. "Based on logic, you're mistaken. Sasuke has defeated both Kiba and me multiple times, and Naruto was able to defeat Sasuke. They are far from being an easy target."
Hinata landed gracefully between her teammates, frustration was evident on her face. She couldn't help but compare them to her old team, who would simply follow her lead. "Okay, I understand that, but they haven't faced someone who uses the Gentle Fist like me. I can disrupt their chakra network within seconds, allowing you two to seize the scroll. Unless, of course, you're scared of Sakura?" she challenged, underestimating Sakura's abilities and hoping to motivate her teammates, even dog boy should be able to take on Sakura.
"I don't know about you guys, but I think it's time we make camp and rest," Kiba suggested, voicing his growing unease about continuing to navigate through the dark forest. The treacherous predators they had encountered during daylight hours were already enough to give them pause, and the thought of stumbling upon them in the cover of darkness sent shivers down his spine.
Hinata, who had been diligently observing their surroundings with her Byakugan, understood the practicality of Kiba's suggestion. However, her determination to press forward and complete her personal mission conflicted with her concern for their safety. She felt torn between her desire to find her target and the potential risks they faced in the darkness.
Shino, ever the pragmatic strategist, carefully considered both sides. He acknowledged the validity of Kiba's fear and the need for rest but also recognized Hinata's unwavering determination. "Kiba, your concern for our well-being is justified, and Hinata, I understand your eagerness to continue. Perhaps we can find a middle ground."
Hinata, her brows furrowed, spoke softly, "I-I don't want to waste time, but I also don't want to put us in unnecessary danger. It's just... I want us to succeed, and I believe we can." Words, if only she could believe them. Her hate, her anger was still clouding her judgment and she knew it. The quicker they found him, the sooner it would be done and then she could spend the rest of her life knowing she saved the future even as she rotted away in some cell.
Kiba, sensing Hinata's internal struggle, approached her gently. "Hinata, we all want to become Chunin, but pushing ourselves too hard without rest might do more harm than good. It's about finding the right balance. We can still prove ourselves, but we need to prioritize our safety too."
Shino interjected, "Kiba is correct. Taking a moment to rest and plan will enhance our chances of success. It's not a sign of weakness but a wise decision in the face of the challenges ahead."
Hinata sighed, knowing if she pushed too hard it would make them suspicious and that would cause even more trouble for her. After all the importance of teamwork was forever drilled into their heads. "You're right. We need to think long-term. Resting now will allow us to move faster in the morning with renewed energy. Let's find a safe spot to set up camp and take a break before total darkness makes it even harder."
"I will take the first watch,", said Kiba as they found a hollowed-out tree larger than most houses, Shino started a small fire and lay out some bedrolls.
"I will take second watch, wake me in a few hours,", said Shino as ate a quick meal of dried meats and curled up next to the small warmth of the fire.
…
Hinata woke with a start, a hand over her mouth, she almost sent her attacker flying when she realized it was Shino. Once he noticed she was awake he moved his hand away, "There is another team near.", he said as he moved away to awaken Kiba. Hinata rolled to her feet and scanned the area. Among the chaos of chakra, she spotted one male high in a tree but his teammates she couldn't find.
"How many?", she whispered as Kiba and Shino moved to the entrance of their small hideout.
"My kikaichu reported three,", said Shino as he pointed out the locations where he thought the enemy was located. The one in the tree had moved closer Hinata could see them more clearly but the other two were still camouflaged but the chakra around them.
"Kiba, move to the side so you will have room for your attack, Shino we need to better our odds, can you drain the chakra from one of them without them noticing.", said Hinata taking charge of the team.
As Shino moved off with a cloud of kikaichu flying off to do his bedding Hinata moved out of the hideout and into a small clearing, she needed room and hoped she was fast enough to avoid any attaches.
Hinata's voice rang out, her words laced with conviction and drawing the enemy team towards her. "Kiba, flank them from the right and unleash your fang over fang technique! Shino, create a diversion with your kikaichu. I'll take the lead and engage them head-on." her team could see what she was doing by loudly talking, and commanding them even, she was drawing the other team into the clearing. Kiba knew better than to go where she had ordered and moved into the underbrush as Shino sent a wave of kikaichu high into the trees as he too slipped out of sight.
Hinata with her Byakugan blazing waited knowing that whatever team this was she would need to move fast to give her team a chance to counter what was coming.
"You are lucky little girl, we only want your scroll today maybe when you get a little older we can have a little more fun.", said Oboro as he came out of the ground with dozens of clones of himself making it hard to determine who was speaking.
Hinata looked at her apposition discounting what he said as the trash talk it was, she could see he had spiky brown hair and dark eyes, wearing a yellow jumpsuit which was stitched up the middle along with a pair of sandals. His forehead protector covered his whole head, a rebreather, and a sash around his face with eye holes cut out. Each clone looking the same as they moved around her.
"Team Oboro, what are you looser doing here.", said Hinata trying to draw out the other members of his team. His genjutsu and clone techniques were using the Sly Mind Affect Technique which was confusing her sense of direction. She found that if she focused only on the center clone she was able to determine who the real Oboro was right before they all attached. She quickly found that they were earth clones that could do some damage as they swarmed her effectively wearing her out.
In the middle of the fight, Mubi dropped from the tree above them drained of chakra as he did his best to stand Kiba, a feral grin spreading across his face as he dashed towards his target, his canine partner Akamaru right beside him. With a surge of chakra, they spun rapidly, their bodies transforming into a blur of teeth and claws. Whirling through the air, their fangs tore through the Mubi's defenses, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Dust and debris filled the air as their powerful attack clashed with the opposing team's desperate attempts to evade. When Kiba cast off the jutsu and turned to face the enemy with another attack he could see he wouldn't be getting back up any time soon.
Meanwhile, Shino silently maneuvered through the shadows, his kikaichu dispersing into the darkness like an army of black death. With their subtle bites, they discreetly drained the next enemy's chakra reserves, gradually sapping their strength and leaving them vulnerable. Shino's strategic mind orchestrated this calculated assault, exploiting the chaos of battle. He target Kagari as he tried to use the Sly Mind Affect Technique but the kikaichu bugs were unaffected.
Hinata, stepped forward with her Byakugan blazed with intensity, allowing her to perceive the enemy's every move. She weaved hand seals with precise accuracy, channeling her chakra into a devastating offensive maneuver. A wave of gentle fist strikes erupted from her palms, each strike aimed at disrupting the enemy's chakra flow and incapacitating their jutsu.
Her movements were a mesmerizing dance, fluid and precise. She evaded incoming attacks of the clones with graceful agility, her body swaying like a leaf in the wind. When the opportune moment presented itself, she struck back with lightning speed, exploiting Oboro's openings and delivering powerful blows to his chest. Her gentle fist strikes landed with pinpoint accuracy, sending shockwaves of pain through his body.
The clash of jutsu reverberated through the forest, echoing with the intensity of their battle, every time she attached an earth clone it exploded in a cloud of earth and rocks blinding Oboro more than her as she moved to the next opponent. She pressed forward, her attacks relentless and precise. She seized every opportunity, using her agility to dodge incoming projectiles while exploiting her opponents' weaknesses. Her gentle fist strikes connected with bone-crushing force, leaving a trail of broken clones in her wake.
Kiba, not one to be outdone, fought with a ferocity that matched his wild spirit. He utilized his formidable speed and agility, bounding across the battlefield like a blur. Fangs bared and claws unsheathed, he tore through the enemy clones' ranks, his attacks striking with lightning speed and relentless power. His howls of triumph mingled with the clash of steel.
Shino, silent but deadly, orchestrated his moves with precision. He strategically manipulated his kikaichu, their tiny forms swarming the enemy, draining their chakra reserves unnoticed. In the midst of the chaos, he exploited the confusion and panic, leaving the enemy disoriented and weakened. His stoic expression masked the calculating mind beneath, a strategist always several steps ahead.
The forest of death was shrouded in a dense atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. Team Oboro had cunningly unleashed their arsenal of clones and genjutsu, turning the battleground into a chaotic spectacle. Illusory duplicates of varying compositions, ranging from ethereal mirages to solid constructs of rock and mud, filled the surroundings, further adding to the disarray.
In a strategic move, Kagari emerged from beneath the ground, utilizing the element of surprise to his advantage. With a swift motion, he cast the Sly Mind Affect Technique upon Team 8, plunging them into a state of confusion. The jutsu's influence caused Kiba to lose his bearings, spiraling off into the trees and unintentionally colliding with Shino, who had been stealthily operating from the shadows.
As the dust settled, Hinata stood resolute, her Byakugan eyes piercing through the chaos with unwavering focus. She remained on high alert, fully aware of the imminent danger that lurked within the forest. The advantage of her bloodline limit granted her unparalleled vision, ensuring that no assailant could approach from any direction unseen.
Oboro emerged from amidst his rock clones, his voice laced with deceptive confidence. "Enough of this, hand over your scroll, and we might spare your lives," he demanded, attempting to exploit any perceived weakness in Hinata's resolve.
A steely determination gleamed in Hinata's eyes as she firmly held her ground, her stance unwavering. She would not be underestimated nor succumb to their manipulative tactics. "Do you believe me to be weak or foolish?" she retorted, her voice strong and laced with conviction. She knew better than to lower her guard, anticipating an imminent attack at any given moment. The open field before her, coupled with the power of her Byakugan, ensured that no adversary could approach from her blind spots.
"We will not spare you, girl," Oboro declared with a malevolent smirk as he skillfully retreated into the earth, his clones advancing relentlessly.
Meanwhile, Kagari unleashed a formidable technique, bellowing, "Water Release: Black Rain Technique!" A dense mist, dark and suffocating, materialized, creating a cloud that loomed ominously above Hinata. Unbeknownst to her, the mist contained a volatile concoction, a flammable oil that clung to everything it touched.
Seizing the opportunity, Oboro emerged from the earth beside Hinata with malicious intent. His eyes glinted with sadistic delight as he uttered, "Fire jutsu: Tongue of Flame!" In an instant, searing tongues of fire engulfed Hinata, their intensity increasing with every movement she made. The scorching flames threatened to consume her, testing her resolve to its limits.
Amidst the searing pain and frustration, Hinata refused to yield. With a surge of determination, she swiftly discarded her oversized coat, ripping it off her body. A primal scream of anguish and defiance escaped her lips, echoing through the battleground. Acting instinctively, she hurled the coat towards Kagari, employing it as a makeshift weapon. The fabric unfurled, smothering the lingering flames that still clung to her, granting her a momentary respite.
Hinata, now partially freed from the inferno that had engulfed her, swiftly rolled across the ground, extinguishing the remnants of the fire. Her body trembled from the pain, yet her spirit remained unyielding. She rose to her feet, her gaze fixed upon her adversaries, a fierce determination etched upon her face. The ordeal only fueled her to protect her team and win this perilous battle.
"That hurt, you bastard," Hinata spat with venomous determination, her disheveled appearance showcasing her resilience. Clad in her black shorts and mesh top, her long hair still damp with oil, its scorched ends curling inwards, she stood as a solitary figure amidst the aftermath of their fierce clash. Exhaustion weighed heavy upon them all, evidenced by the fallen clones littering the ground, their depleted chakra dissipating into the air.
Oboro and Kagari glanced towards their fallen comrade, Mubi, who struggled to rise but could only manage to prop himself up on his hands and knees. Seizing the opportunity, Oboro dismissed Mubi's condition with callous indifference, his voice dripping with arrogance. "Give up before we have to get serious," he taunted, his focus fixed on Hinata.
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Hinata's lips, her resolve unshaken. "Your logic is flawed, for you failed to consider the entirety of Team 8," said Shino his words laced with quiet confidence. At that moment, the dense underbrush rustled, and Shino emerged, his enigmatic presence felt as he stepped forward. With calculated precision, he commanded a cloud of his kikaichu bugs to swarm around Kagari, their collective buzzing serving as a harbinger of impending danger.
Caught off guard, Kagari flailed and screamed, his attempts to conceal himself futile against the relentless onslaught of Shino's insect companions. It was at this moment that Kiba, seizing the perfect opportunity, burst forth from the shadows, a fierce determination gleaming in his eyes. "Fang over Fang!" he bellowed, launching himself towards Kagari with blinding speed. The powerful technique sent Kagari spiraling through the air, a helpless pawn in the canine-like assault. The devastating impact culminated in a resounding crash as Kagari collided with his teammate, Mubi, effectively taking them both out of the fight as they lay on the ground unmoving.
The battlefield fell into a tense silence as the dust settled, revealing Oboro trapped within the midst of Team 8. The team moved in unison, strategically positioning themselves to block any possible escape routes for their defeated opponent.
"Now it's time for you to surrender your scroll," Hinata stated calmly, her voice carrying an air of determination as she brushed a few loose strands of hair away from her face.
Oboro's defiance shone through as he mustered his remaining strength to protest, "Never! I will fight until the-"
Before he could finish his sentence, Kiba swiftly closed in from behind, holding a kunai with the blunt end. With a precise strike, he delivered a firm blow to Oboro's head, rendering him unconscious and effectively ending the battle. The sound of the impact echoed through the clearing, punctuating the team's victory.
The tension eased slightly as Team 8 stood together, observing the fallen enemy and catching their breath. Hinata's gaze shifted towards her teammates, a small smile of satisfaction forming on her lips. Their teamwork had paid off, securing them a decisive victory.
"We did well," Hinata praised, her voice filled with genuine appreciation for her team's win. "Let's make sure to retrieve the scroll and regroup. We still have more to do."
With their objective in sight, Team 8 advanced toward the unconscious Oboro, preparing to claim the scroll hidden in Oboro's pocket. Eagerly, they thought they had finally obtained the valuable prize they had been seeking. However, their hopes were dashed—it was not the one they needed.
Hinata's disappointment was evident, but she quickly composed herself. She knew they couldn't afford to dwell on setbacks "Let's not waste any more time here. Tie them up and let's get out of here."
Team 8 swiftly bound Oboro and his teammates with sturdy ninja wire, before dragging them into the tree cave they had used as a camp, they ensuring they wouldn't pose a threat or hinder their progress. As they finished securing the captives, Hinata took one last glance at them, her gaze filled with a mix of empathy and resolve.
"If they are lucky one of their teams will find them if not, they will be bear food by morning.", said Kiba as the thought of what was going to become of team Oboro became clear.
"You can cut their throats now or we leave, it's up to you.", said Hinata shocking her team with her bluntness.
…
Hinata's words hung heavy in the air, her words slicing through the tension. Kiba and Shino exchanged glances, uncertainty etched across their faces. The decision was not an easy one, as they grappled with their own moral compasses. The forest seemed to hold its breath, waiting for their choice.
After a long moment, Kiba shook his head, his voice resolute but tinged with compassion. "No, Hinata. We won't resort to that. We're shinobi, but we're not heartless killers."
Shino nodded in agreement, his typically stoic expression softening ever so slightly. "Killing them goes against our principles. They have been defeated, and leaving them here is punishment enough."
Hinata's eyes flickered with a mix of disappointment and understanding. She had momentarily let her knowledge of the future cloud her judgment, forgetting the importance of compassion amidst the chaos of battle. Taking a deep breath, she nodded, acknowledging her teammates' perspectives. They would meet team Oboro again but next time only one team would leave that battle alive.
"You're right," she admitted, her voice laced with a newfound sense of finality. "We will leave them here and trust that fate or the gods will spare them."
With their decision made, Team 8 left the bound captives in the relative safety of the tree cave.
…..
'God how can Naruto be so stupid,', thought Sakura as she searched for Naruto after he didn't come back from a simple bathroom break. This was not how she remembers the second day of the chunin exams beginning.
Sasuke, leaning against a nearby tree with his arms crossed, voiced his impatience. "Leave that loser behind. Let's keep moving."
Sakura's eyes flashed with determination as she retorted, not comprehending her younger self's infatuation with the insane raven-haired shinobi. "We can't become Chunin without our full team, remember?"
Sasuke kicked away from the tree and leaped into the branches, clearly displeased with the task of searching for his lost teammate, while Sakura continued on the ground. Neither of them wanted to shout out Naruto's name, fearing it might draw the attention of other teams. Minutes stretched into an hour, and eventually, Sasuke returned to the ground, landing next to Sakura.
"He's nowhere to be found. How can Naruto be so utterly clueless?" Sasuke muttered, his frustration evident in his voice.
"You don't think one of the other teams took him or that he encountered a wild animal?" Sakura's voice trembled with genuine concern as the thought of Naruto falling victim to such dangers crossed her mind. Her dreams of a return to the future she remembers could be shattered in an instant.
"Even Naruto can fend off a bear, and we would have heard him if he were in a fight with another team. No, that idiot is simply lost," Sasuke remarked, surprising Sakura with the length of his response. It was a rare sign that even Sasuke was worried about their teammate.
"I've got a bad feeling about this," Sakura uttered, her voice laced with unease as fragments of a haunting past resurfaced in her mind, reaching back almost 25 years. Suddenly, a burst of evil laughter pierced the air, causing both Sasuke and Sakura to whirl around. Before they stood Shiore, a Grass ninja whom they had encountered during the first round of the exams. However, there was a stark difference in him now. Even before the battle commenced, an icy grip of fear took hold of Sasuke and Sakura, freezing them in their tracks.
Locked in Shiore's penetrating gaze, harrowing visions of their own demise flashed before their eyes, sending a surge of terror through their bodies. They found themselves paralyzed, unable to muster the strength to move. Yet, with an incredible exertion of will, Sasuke managed to break free from the grip of paralyzing fear, reclaiming control of his body in the face of imminent danger. Realizing the danger that awaited them, he seized Sakura's arm firmly, almost pulling her off her feet as he ran with her in tow.
As they sprint away from Shiore's malevolent presence. Their hearts pounded in their chests, adrenaline surging through their veins as they fled. Sakura's mind raced, a mixture of fear and self-recrimination consuming her thoughts. How could she have been so foolish as to forget about Orochimaru, the sinister force lurking behind Shiore? Running as fast as her legs could carry her, Sakura was acutely aware that escape was a fleeting hope. After all, how could they outrun a Class S shinobi, once a member of the legendary Sannin?
Taking a deep breath, Sakura unleashed a piercing scream, pouring every ounce of her desperation into the one name that held the power to rescue her, "NARUTO!" Her cry reverberated through the dense forest, slicing through the chaos of battle and drawing the attention of numerous teams vying for the precious scrolls. The sound reached far and wide, resonating with a sense of urgency that touched the hearts of those who heard it.
Among the combatants, even Gaara, his hands still stained with the blood of his fallen opponent, froze in his tracks. The haunting scream pierced through his stoic demeanor, capturing his attention like nothing before. It was a sound he had never encountered—a cry not born of fear or despair, but rather of unwavering hope and the promise of salvation.
At that moment, time seemed to stand still as the forest held its breath. The echoing resonance of Sakura's plea pierced the hearts of both friend and foe, weaving a thread of connection amidst the chaos. The world seemed to collectively hold its breath, waiting for the arrival of the one who had inspired such an unwavering belief in salvation.
Deep within the recesses of the forest, Naruto dropped the body of the now-dead bear that had almost eaten his newest friend, giving the red-headed girl a smile he leaps off driven by a keen sense of intuition, felt a stirring in his soul. A surge of determination surged through his veins as he recognized the voice that called out to him, echoing with trust and the unwavering belief in his ability to bring about a brighter future. With unwavering resolve, Naruto set off, his steps guided by the unbreakable bond of friendship and the unwritten promise to protect those he held dear.
The path ahead might be treacherous, fraught with formidable adversaries and unforeseen challenges, but Naruto's heart burned with the fire of unwavering will. As he raced towards Sakura's desperate plea, he knew that he carried within him the strength to overcome any obstacle. The echo of her scream continued to reverberate in his mind, fueling his resolve to become the beacon of hope she needed.
Through the dense undergrowth, Naruto pressed forward, his eyes fixed on the horizon where the cries of his friend beckoned him. In that singular moment, the forest itself seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the arrival of the one who embodied the indomitable spirit of never giving up. And as Naruto's form emerged from the shadows, a surge of hope ignited in the hearts of all as he leaped onto the back of their attacker.
"Get off me," Shiore scoffed, his grip tightening around Naruto's struggling form before effortlessly flinging him high into the air. As Naruto soared through the sky, his heart pounding with fear, Shiore's hands moved with a speed beyond mortal comprehension, forming intricate hand signs that blurred in the air.
In an instant, the ominous sound of slithering filled the space, and a monstrous serpent, its immense size dwarfing even the tallest trees, materialized before their eyes. The snake's scales shimmered with a deadly combination of vibrant orange, red, and white, warning all who beheld it of the imminent danger it possessed. Its gaping maw, lined with rows of razor-sharp teeth, opened wide, ready to consume its helpless prey.
Naruto's scream pierced the air as gravity pulled him back down towards the serpent's awaiting jaws. The terror and desperation in his voice resonated with the onlookers, a haunting reminder of the brutality and ruthlessness they faced. With a sickening gulp, the massive snake devoured Naruto in one swift motion, swallowing him whole before disappearing into the depths of the forest, leaving no trace behind.
The forest fell silent, the weight of despair settling upon the hearts of those who witnessed the cruel fate that befell their comrade. A mixture of shock, anger, and helplessness welled up within them, their faces etched with a combination of grief and determination.
Sakura's eyes widened in horror as she watched her love vanish within the serpent's jaws. The realization of Naruto's fate struck her like a thunderbolt, tearing at the very core of her being. Anguish filled her heart, intermingled with a renewed determination to avenge her one-time husband once again, she wanted nothing more than to put an end to the malevolence that threatened their existence.
The forest echoed with the silence of despair, broken only by Sakura's anguished cry, reverberating with a resolve forged in the crucible of loss. With every fiber of her being, she vowed to unleash her fury upon Shiore and ensure that Naruto's sacrifice would not be in vain.
With trembling hands and tear-stained cheeks, Sakura turned her gaze towards Shiore, her eyes ablaze with a mixture of grief and steely resolve. She clenched her fists tightly, feeling the weight of her emotions fueling an indomitable fire within her. The loss of Naruto had ignited a flame within her heart, one that burned with an unyielding desire for vengeance. She would not allow him to be swallowed by darkness without a fight.
Her voice, laced with hate, cut through the heavy silence. "I will avenge Naruto, or I will die fighting by his side," she declared, her words carrying the weight of her unwavering resolve. Sakura refused to be left behind ever again, to witness the one she cherished being consumed by the cruelty of their world. No, this time she would join him in the afterlife.
Her sorrow transformed into a driving force, propelling her forward. She charged towards Shiore with a ferocity born from loss, her steps guided by a newfound purpose. Every ounce of her being was dedicated to ensuring that her love's sacrifice would not be in vain. She cast aside all pretexts of being a Genin and called on all her knowledge to end this monster now and forever.
As she closed the distance between them, Sakura's fists swung with focused precision, aiming to strike down the enemy who had dared to snatch Naruto away. Each blow carried the weight of her grief, fueled by her unwavering determination to protect and avenge. Her movements were fueled by a mix of raw emotion and honed skill, combining her sorrow with her years of training to create a force to be reckoned with.
The battlefield became a tempest of fury and determination as Sakura unleashed her pent-up emotions. Every strike, every jutsu she unleashed, was an embodiment of her will to overcome despair and claim victory. The echoes of her battle cry reverberated through the forest, a rallying call to all who fought alongside her.
At that moment, Sakura vowed to herself that she would not falter. She would push past her limits, harnessing her grief as a source of strength. Naruto's absence only served to fuel her resolve further, as she fought not only for her fallen love but for all that they could have shared, and for a future where they would be together again.
With each punch, kick, and jutsu, Sakura fought with all her might, channeling her emotions into a force that could not be ignored. The battle raged on, and Sakura's determination burned brighter than ever, propelling her forward in a relentless pursuit of justice and retribution.
Amidst the chaos, Shiore's laughter resonated through the battlefield, mocking their efforts. With a single swift kick, he sent Sakura sprawling, her body crashing against the unforgiving ground. As she struggled to regain her composure, a mix of pain and determination etched across her face.
"I haven't felt hits like that since my Genin days," Shiore taunted, a twisted sense of nostalgia coloring his words. With a swift motion, he ripped off his face mask, revealing the familiar visage of Orochimaru himself. Sakura's heart skipped a beat, her gaze locking onto the face of their long-standing nemesis.
"I know Tsunade didn't have a daughter, who are you girl?", said the evil in human form.
Before Orochimaru could inquire further any further, a sudden eruption came flying out of the forest. Naruto partly transformed, his chakra ablaze, hurtled towards Orochimaru, his claws tearing into the enemy's flesh with unyielding ferocity. The impact sent Orochimaru hurtling through the air, his body bearing the deep wounds inflicted by Naruto's relentless assault.
Seizing the moment, Sasuke unleashed his formidable technique, the Dragon Flame. Chakra surged through his veins as he channeled his power into a torrent of scorching flames. The intensity of the attack engulfed Orochimaru, leaving him to grapple with the searing heat and destructive force.
The battlefield crackled with tension as Naruto's fiery chakra joined with Sasuke's engulfing flames. Their coordinated assault symbolized their unwavering willpower to protect their comrades and destroy the malevolent Orochimaru.
As the flames dissipated, an expectant hush settled over the battleground. The fate of Orochimaru remained uncertain, concealed within the dissipating smoke. The air grew heavy, charged with anticipation, as Sakura stood, then ran over to stand by Naruto's side unable to touch him in his current form, her gaze fixed on the dissipating haze.
It was a pivotal moment, teetering between hope and apprehension. Sakura's heart pounded in her chest, a mixture of longing and anxiety fueling her resolve. Hope—a glimmer that illuminated the possibility of a future free from the grip of darkness and despair was in her eyes.
From the billowing flames emerged a grotesque figure, it's once human form reduced to a nightmarish spectacle of burnt flesh and smoldering remnants. Every step it took left a trail of disintegrating body parts, littering the ground with grotesque remnants. Yet, it was not the horrifying sight that pierced their souls and rendered them immobile—it was the haunting laughter that resonated through the air, a chilling symphony of madness and triumph.
As the abomination reached its zenith, the charred body collapsed to the ground, splitting apart with a sickening crack. Out of the smoldering ruins, a figure emerged, untainted by the flames that had consumed its previous form. It stood before them, a man seemingly untouched by the horrors that had befallen him.
The malevolent presence emanating from this figure engulfed the surroundings, suffusing the air with a suffocating darkness. Shadows danced upon its contorted features, mirroring the twisted depths of its malevolence. Eyes gleaming with an otherworldly light bore into the very essence of their beings, freezing them in a grip of unyielding terror.
This being, this embodiment of horror and defiance, reveled in its own resurrection. Its laughter, an unsettling blend of joy and sadism, pierced through their sanity, driving their minds to the brink of madness. Each step it took toward them was a deliberate act of provocation, an invitation to witness the depths of its power and depravity.
It was a sight that defied reason, a testament to the forces of darkness that lurked beyond the realm of comprehension. They stood helpless, their bodies paralyzed by fear, as this enigmatic being basked in its terrifying grandeur.
The battlefield transformed into a stage of nightmarish theater, a grotesque display of the triumph of malevolence. In the face of this abomination, hope wavered and flickered, threatened to be extinguished by the encroaching darkness. The path ahead seemed insurmountable, as their worst nightmares materialized before their very eyes.
"You don't scare me!" Naruto's defiant cry pierced through the air, his unwavering spirit propelling him to stand between the encroaching horror and Sakura. His bravado, a shield against the encircling darkness, fueled his resolve.
"Oh but you should be boy, you should be.", said Orochimaru, an embodiment of malevolence, regarded Naruto with a twisted smile. In an instant, he surged forward, his movements a blur of malevolent speed. Like a predator closing in on its prey, he snatched Naruto by the throat, lifting him high into the air. The grip tightened, constricting the very breath from Naruto's lungs.
A sickening thud echoed through the air as Orochimaru's other hand struck with ruthless precision, slamming into Naruto's vulnerable stomach. The radiant red chakra cloak that had enveloped him, a symbol of his indomitable will, flickered and faded into oblivion. A mere flick of Orochimaru's hand sent Naruto's limp body crashing to the ground, unconscious and defenseless.
Sakura's heart sank, her worst fears realized before her eyes. The weight of despair threatened to crush her spirit as she witnessed her love fall again, broken and defeated. The horrors that surrounded them seemed insurmountable, the path ahead obscured by shadows of doubt. Who was she to challenge this monster, even her old master had feared going against him.
Across the desolate battlefield, amidst the wreckage and chaos, a blazing inferno erupted, crashing against Orochimaru's back. Sasuke, fueled by a dwindling reserve of chakra, launched himself into another attack, driven by a desperate need to protect his team and prove his own strength.
But Orochimaru, a figure shrouded in darkness and malice, merely chuckled in amusement. In a blink of an eye, he whirled around to face Sasuke, his movements fluid and impossibly swift. Blow after blow rained down upon Sasuke, each strike further diminishing his strength. The once proud Uchiha was reduced to a battered and bloodied heap, his body barely clinging to life, leaning against a fallen log.
With sadistic satisfaction, Orochimaru loomed over the wounded Sasuke. A wicked grin spread across his face, relishing in the agony he had inflicted. In the depths of his eyes, a twisted desire for power burned like a malevolent flame. His senses alerted him to the approaching presence of others, their chakra drawing near.
"Come to me when you desire true power," Orochimaru hissed, his voice dripping with venomous seduction. "Power that will allow you to avenge the slayer of your clan." With a sudden, serpentine movement, Orochimaru's neck elongated like that of a snake, sinking his fangs deep into Sasuke's vulnerable neck. The venomous bite carried a chilling promise of transformation and twisted allure.
As swiftly as he had appeared, Orochimaru melted into the very earth beneath him, vanishing without a trace. The ominous laughter that lingered in the air served as a haunting reminder of the malevolent presence that had just wreaked havoc upon them.
In the aftermath of the merciless assault, the broken bodies of Naruto and Sasuke lay sprawled upon the scorched ground, their breaths shallow and labored. Sakura stood there, a witness to the devastation and brutality that had unfolded before her. The weight of loss and despair threatened to consume her, but deep within her heart, an unyielding flame flickered—an unshakable determination to rise, to protect, and to seek the strength needed to confront the darkness that had befallen them.
"Now this part I remember," Sakura whispered to herself, her voice tinged with a mix of determination and apprehension. She gently cradled Naruto in her arms, carefully carrying him away from the ravaged battlefield and seeking refuge at the base of a towering tree. With steady resolve, she returned to retrieve Sasuke, dragging him to join Naruto's unconscious form.
As she settled them in their temporary sanctuary, Sakura couldn't help but wonder what the next day would bring. She played with the two scrolls she had found on her trips back to the battlefield to look for supplies, had that bastard left them for her or was it chance she didn't know but in the morning they would head to the tower as fast as they could.
In the depths of the night, as Sakura ate her meager rations she took solace in the quietness that enveloped them. She kept a watchful eye over her fallen team, their breathing shallow and fragile as she tried to keep them warm with a small fire. Thoughts of their shared past, their dreams, and the trials that lay ahead swirled in her mind, it all happen so long ago.
Tomorrow would bring new tests, new battles to fight, and decisions that could shape their destinies. Sakura steeled herself, knowing that the strength she sought, both for herself and her beloved Naruto, lay not only in power but in unity and unwavering resolve.
With a heavy sigh, Sakura cast her gaze out into the night, her eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of impending danger. Would the same foolish team dare to challenge her again, driven by their misguided orders as last time? Or would the winds of fate carry them on separate paths, allowing her a chance to rest and heal before moving on.
….
Now that the stage is set we will now move forward.