DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO (OWN)
Ch.45 - Mix and Match
- Inside A Dark Room -
(A Few Hours After the Incident at the 44th Training Grounds)
The room lay enveloped in shadows, a sanctuary of quietude disturbed only by the occasional delicate plop of water beads meeting the metallic basin's cool surface. A gentle zephyr choreographed an elegant dance with the curtains, casting fleeting shadows upon the room. Amidst this serene symphony, Naruto slumbered soundly, his rhythmic breaths orchestrating a tranquil cadence.
Nestled in his bed, Naruto was lost in dreams, a realm entirely his own. A borrowed book on fuinjutsu from the archives found its place beside him, a silent testament to his voracious thirst for knowledge. The night's reading had gently slipped him into slumber's embrace. His attire consisted of soft, sky-blue pajamas, a stark contrast to the vibrant spirit he so often exuded during waking hours. Atop his head perched a whimsical sleeping cap, a creature-like visage rendered in black fabric.
A companion shared his repose - a dakimakura, a body pillow embraced as tenderly as a cherished loved one. Evidently lost in the deepest reaches of sleep, Naruto's repose was so profound that even the tendrils of slumber itself couldn't contain his drool, which trickled onto his pillow like the first hint of rain. What dreams wove their tapestries behind his closed eyelids were a mystery, a realm accessible only to him.
- In Naruto's Dream -
Under the sun's cheerful radiance in Konoha, a soft breeze playfully countered the warmth, creating a tender balance. Naruto discovered himself within his beloved haven, Ichiraku Ramen.
"Huh?... W-Where am I?..." he uttered; his confusion evident.
"What do you mean?.. We're at Ichiraku's, silly." a voice chimed in, instantly recognizable to Naruto. He turned and found Sakura seated beside him, a warm smile lighting up her features.
"S-S-Sakura-chan?!... W-What are you doing here?!..." he questioned; his puzzlement palpable.
"You asked me to join you for a meal, remember?..." she replied, a hint of amusement in her voice.
"I did?..." he mumbled, realization dawning upon him. The situation remained a puzzle, and Naruto's mind raced. Then, as though scripted by fate, Ayame approached, bearing two bowls of Miso Char Siu ramen, steam curling upwards like savory tendrils.
"Here you go, Naruto! Two bowls of piping hot Miso Char Siu ramen, on the house, for you and your date!" Ayame beamed at him, her joy infectious.
"R-Really?! It's free, Ayame-neechan?!" Naruto's disbelief echoed.
"Of course! This one's on the house, considering this is your first date," Ayame's cheerfulness was as heartwarming as her ramen.
"And if you want more, just say the word!" Teuchi's voice rang out from the kitchen, a chorus of support.
"YES! CAN'T WAIT TO DIG IN—" his enthusiasm was cut short, Ayame's words finally registering, "D-D-DATE?!..." his surprise reverberated.
Ayame and Teuchi exchanged a bemused glance, while Sakura, ever gracious, stepped in, explaining Naruto's jitters as first-date nerves. Assurances given; the culinary duo retreated to their kitchen haven.
Sakura turned her attention back to Naruto, his flustered state still evident. "I can't believe you forgot already. You're such a dummy, Naruto," Sakura teased, her words as affectionate as a gentle touch. Naruto instinctively shut his eyes and put his arms in front of him, half-expecting a customary smack, but instead felt Sakura's fingers playfully pinching his cheeks. Opening his eyes, he met Sakura's endearing gaze.
Naruto's exclamation carried a blend of surprise and disbelief, "EHHHHH?!..."
"What's the matter?" she asked.
"You're not going to hit me?..." he quizzed, genuinely curious.
"Why would I? To be honest... I find your antics cute, actually," she giggled, giving his cheek an affectionate squeeze that temporarily sent his heart aflutter. Naruto stared at Sakura, a mixture of disbelief and subtle joy painting his expression. It was a moment he had long dreamed of – after countless attempts, Sakura had finally agreed to be by his side, and it felt like a fantasy turned reality.
"Say 'ahhh', Naruto!" Sakura's enthusiasm was infectious as she suddenly appeared with a bowl of ramen, ready to feed him. Naruto found himself taken aback momentarily, but his adeptness at ramen consumption allowed him to swiftly regain his composure. He gulped down the mouthful he had, ready to converse, but Sakura seemed to have other plans, stuffing more ramen into his mouth. He swallowed once more, attempting to interject, only to find himself silenced by another mouthful of ramen.
A determined swallow followed by a hasty attempt to speak: "Wai—" but yet again, his words were smothered by Sakura's culinary assault. Another gulp, his urgency palpable: "Wait, let me—" he managed to voice, yet found his sentence curtailed by another ramen-laden bite. This merry cycle continued until Sakura's bowl was emptied, and Naruto was finally spared from further ramen-infused interruptions.
Naruto wrestled with words trapped within as his inability to swallow left him speechless. His cheeks ballooned, his mouth a makeshift storage full to its brim. A trickle of ramen broth navigated an escape route down his nose. "Don't talk when your mouth's full, Naruto. It's bad manners," Sakura chided gently, dabbing away the stray broth from his lips.
"This is nice," Sakura revealed, her words laden with the weight of unspoken sentiments, "I just wish I agreed to go out with you sooner rather than later." Naruto's attention was snagged by her confession. He made a valiant effort to respond, yet his mouth was an unwitting barricade, ramen held captive and swallowing a distant ambition.
"Though be honest with me," Sakura probed, her inquiry slicing through the air, "is there something between you and Ino?..." The question caught Naruto off guard. It triggered a sudden bout of coughing, the ramen's rebellion in his mouth evident as he choked. Broth staged a daring escape through his nose, and a solitary noodle danced precariously. Swallowing swiftly, he managed to mutter, "W-Wait, what?... What do you mean 'something between me and Ino,' Sakura?"
"Don't act like you don't know, Naruto" Sakura's voice brimmed with a mixture of frustration and vulnerability. "I always see both of you spending time together!"
Naruto was taken aback, uncertain about his reply. "You're upset because of that?!... Of course, I still like you!" Naruto retorted.
"BUT DO YOU THOUGH?..." Sakura's response left Naruto wordless. Suddenly, ramen broth began flowing out of Sakura's bowl. It seemed like an endless supply of ramen broth, pouring ceaselessly. Naruto observed this, his astonishment mingling with confusion. He glanced around, hoping for others to witness this unusual occurrence, yet he and Sakura were alone at Ichiraku Ramen. He attempted to call out to Ayame and Teuchi for help, but his calls echoed unanswered. Sakura's voice drew his attention once more.
"Naruto!" she called, and Naruto refocused on her. He noticed that Sakura's feet were now immersed in ramen broth, but she appeared oblivious.
"S-Sakura-chan! Your feet are drenched in ramen!" Naruto exclaimed; his concern evident.
"Don't change the subject, Naruto. Tell me, do you still like me?..." she asked again, but Naruto's attention was divided between their situation and her question. The ramen broth continued to overflow, now reaching his thighs. Quickly, he hopped onto a nearby chair to avoid getting soaked.
"Something's not right here... We seriously got to go, Sakura-chan..." Naruto stated urgently, but Sakura seemed unyielding. Once more, she repeated her question about his feelings, disregarding Naruto's attempts to divert their focus. This repetition irked Naruto: he extended his hand to assist her in getting up from her seat, aiming to find higher ground.
"I'm not leaving until you answer me, Naruto. Do you still like me?..." Sakura persisted, unmoved.
"FINE! Yes, I still like you, Sakura-chan! Now let's go!" His hand reached out toward her, but Sakura simply gazed at Naruto and his outstretched hand. "No," she responded.
"Wha- What do you mean 'no'?!..." Naruto asked, his confusion mounting.
"I don't believe you're telling the truth, Naruto..." Sakura's reply frustrated him. Meanwhile, the ramen broth had risen to Sakura's chest.
"*sigh* I don't have time for this..." Naruto muttered, preparing to reach out to Sakura for them to escape. But before he could, something tugged at his right foot with force. Losing his balance, he tumbled off the chair and into the warm, aromatic broth. Its fragrance overwhelmed his senses as he was pulled deeper, noodles winding around his leg. Below him loomed darkness, an abyss where the unknown lurks. Not wanting to be dragged down to the depths, Naruto tried his best to resurface. Kicking upwards, he swam upwards and quickly grabbed onto his chair. Once his head resurfaced, Naruto quickly tried his best to catch his breath. Amidst it all, Sakura sat still.
"A little help here, Sakura-chan!" Naruto begged.
"Answer me, Naruto," she replied, undeterred.
"WHA- ARE YOU SERIOUS RIGHT NOW?! HELP ME, SAKURA!" he implored, his desperation evident, yet she remained oblivious to his plight. Suddenly, the noodles yanked his leg again, harder. The pull became too much, his grip on the chair slipping. Naruto reached for a kunai in his pouch, only to realize it wasn't there.
Inside Naruto's mind: "Crap..."
Abruptly, he was pulled beneath the surface of the ramen broth. Through the murkiness, he faintly heard Sakura's voice above, her calls of "Naruto!" muffled as if through water, echoing persistently. He struggled to free his foot, ensnared by the stubborn noodles, but his attempts were futile. Soon, oxygen became scarce, his desperate gasp met with a mouthful of ramen broth. It crept into him, inexorably filling his lungs, a drowning sensation taking hold. Amid the suffocating deluge, he could still discern Sakura's distant cries above, a stark contrast to the depths engulfing him.
"Naruto!"
"Naruto!"
"NARUTO!"
"NARUTO!"
"NARUTO!" he heard, the sound echoing until, gradually and inevitably, his vision dimmed to blackness, and he could perceive nothing more.
- Outside Naruto's Dream -
Naruto jolted awake from his slumber; his body drenched in cold sweat. His heart hammered wildly within his chest, leaving him gasping for breath. Amid the racing rhythm of his heart, a muffled voice called out his name, "NARUTO!" The urgent knocks on his front door were impossible to ignore. Groggily, he squinted at the wall clock – 4 AM. Who could be at his door at such an ungodly hour?
Shaking off the remnants of the unsettling dream and simply chalking it up as a weird dream, Naruto climbed out of bed. He straightened his rumpled pajamas as he moved, making his way to the door. With a yawn, he swung it open to find Ino standing there, her annoyance evident.
"I-Ino? What're you doing out so early?..." Naruto asked, his voice laced with sleepiness.
A tinge of exasperation colored Ino's tone as she retorted, "What took you so long?! I've been calling you for the past 20 minutes, Naruto..."
Naruto's drowsy mind slowly registered her words, and a flicker of memory sparked in his consciousness. He remembered the vivid dream he had just experienced. He scratched the back of his head nervously, offering a sheepish apology for keeping Ino waiting.
With an audible sigh, Ino waved off his tardiness, her impatience palpable. "*sigh* It's fine. Just go get dressed," she instructed.
Perplexed, Naruto raised an eyebrow, "Wait, why?..."
Ino's reply was swift and to the point, "Apparently, we have a mission to do."
Naruto's brows furrowed in surprise, "A mission?... I thought we were supposed to train with Asuma-sensei today?..."
A frustrated sigh escaped Ino's lips, mirroring Naruto's confusion. "That's what I thought too, but there's no time to explain now. Just get dressed, and I'll fill you in along the way," she urged.
Nodding, Naruto stepped back into his apartment. He hurriedly freshened up and changed into his attire, his mind a whirlwind of questions about the mission that had unexpectedly disrupted his sleep and the lingering traces of the dream that had stirred his emotions earlier.
- On The Way to the Hokage Tower -
"Wait... So, you mean some wild animals broke out of the 44th Training Grounds (Daiyonjūyon Enshūjō)?!..." Naruto's voice carried a mixture of disbelief and astonishment.
Ino's reply was straightforward, "That's pretty much the gist of it, Naruto."
As they continued on their way, the two blondes engaged in a conversation, the rhythm of their exchange comfortable and familiar. Amid their chatter, they spotted Shino, who was also making his way toward the Hokage's office. In unison, Ino and Naruto greeted him, wishing him a good morning. Shino's response was composed and to the point, his customary calm demeanor on display.
The trio found themselves walking together, a camaraderie formed by shared experiences and an unexpected mission. Conversation flowed naturally as they discussed the abruptness of this assignment. It turned out that all three of them were somewhat vexed by the intrusion on their sleep, compounded by the early hour of the mission. Yet, as the reality of their duty settled in, they acknowledged that there was little to be done. Such missions were a part and parcel of their responsibilities as ninjas. All that remained was their curiosity about how this mission would unfold.
- In The Hokage Tower -
Ascending the building's interior, Naruto, Shino, and Ino climbed towards the uppermost floor where the Hokage's office held its position. Their steps echoed on the stairs, and as they ascended, they noted that several shinobi were already up and about, commencing their day's work. Upon reaching the final landing, they traversed the corridor until they arrived at the door that led to the Hokage's inner sanctum. Ino rapped her knuckles against the door before pushing it open with care. Before them, the Hokage, Hiruzen, was settled at his desk, his presence commanding. Seated in front of him were not only their team but also Shikamaru, Hinata, Sasuke, and their mentor, Kakashi. The unexpected gathering of so many familiar faces sparked surprise within the trio. They had been led to believe that their team alone was assigned this mission. Neither Ino's mother nor Shino's father, Shibi, had mentioned this development. As for Naruto, he had been informed solely by Ino.
Shelving their astonishment, the three entered the office and offered polite morning greetings to the Hokage, who nodded genially in response. He apprised them of the situation – they were to await the arrival of Team 8. Hiruzen had dispatched Asuma to summon Kurenai's squad, recognizing that the combined efforts of all three teams were required for this mission's success.
Hearing this revelation caused Naruto to remember the dream he just had a while ago once more knowing that Sakura was in Team 8, Ino noticed this and sighed and nudged Naruto in an attempt to make him snap out of it.
Meanwhile, Sasuke fixed a pointed glare on Naruto, who was currently caught in a distant reverie. Naruto's peculiar behavior hadn't gone unnoticed by the others, especially not by Sasuke.
Inside Sasuke's mind: "Tchhh... There goes that loser again, annoying as ever..."
Under the watchful gaze of the Hokage, Naruto's odd behavior became the topic of concern. "Is Naruto alright?" questioned Hiruzen, the village's leader.
"*sigh* At this point, I'm not even sure anymore, Hokage-sama," Ino responded wearily. She went on to explain that this wasn't the first time this had happened, recounting a recent similar incident. Hiruzen nodded understandingly, expressing hope that Naruto would snap out of it upon Team 8's arrival. Shino and Ino both acknowledged the Hokage's words, and Ino continued her efforts to rouse Naruto from his introspection.
Meanwhile, from a distance, Hinata quietly observed Ino's interaction with Naruto. She noticed the playful exchange between Ino and Naruto. Hinata, no stranger to her own social insecurities, felt a pang of self-awareness. She recognized her own limitations and resolved to overcome them. Shifting her focus to her teammates, Sasuke and Shikamaru, she formulated a plan. Gathering her courage, she steeled herself against her natural stutter and initiated a conversation.
The responses from her teammates arrived after a brief pause. Shikamaru's demeanor remained characteristically laid-back. "Mendokuse... (What a drag)," he muttered, expressing his discontent and annoyance at being disturbed from his sleep. Sasuke's response was curt and indifferent, stating his eagerness to wrap up the mission and return home.
Hinata exhaled softly, a mix of relief and satisfaction washing over her. The mere act of initiating dialogue was a victory, a step towards personal growth. While she had predicted their reactions to the abrupt mission, her aim was broader – she aspired to develop her social skills and this interaction marked a promising start.
Shortly after, the door swung open, revealing Asuma, Kurenai, Kiba, Choji, and Sakura. Kurenai then offered an apology for their team's delay. Hiruzen's response was forgiving as he gathered the assembly closer.
"As it has come to your attention, a trio of wild animals has, indeed, made their escape from the confines of the 44th Training Grounds (Daiyonjūyon Enshūjō) earlier today. Fortunately, we were promptly alerted by a nearby patrol group, which explains our position in addressing this matter with due urgency," began Hiruzen, capturing everyone's attention. "The wild animals that have escaped are the following: the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armodillo), the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx), and the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear) – each posing a considerable threat in their own right. The presence of all three teams is necessary; the task of apprehending these creatures is too much for just one team to handle. As your teams focus on the task of tracking these wild creatures, additional groups will be responsible for repairing the damaged segment of the chain-link fence. Simultaneously, they will stand guard to prevent any other wild animals from escaping. And now, allow me to proceed to what I'm about to say next," Hiruzen continued, producing a box from his desk. Its contents contained specially prepared senbons infused with potent sedatives, a means to subdue the creatures. He also acknowledged the possibility of using lethal force if the option of incapacitating said beasts proved futile. "Any questions?" Hiruzen concluded, his gaze encompassing the assembled teams.
Kakashi's query reached the Hokage's ears, leading Hiruzen to prompt Kakashi to express his concerns. "I'm going out on a limb here and guessing that most of us here don't know much about these creatures. By any chance, could you provide our teams with information regarding these beasts, Hokage-sama?" Kakashi inquired.
"I see... Very well," Hiruzen responded, producing three separate folders from his desk and placing them atop the wooden surface. Hiruzen elucidated that the trio of folders contained valuable information about the escaped creatures, knowledge that would prove to be beneficial in ensuring the success of this mission. Kakashi expressed his gratitude for the assistance.
However, before the Hokage could adjourn the gathering, Asuma raised a question of his own. He sought knowledge of the creatures' current locations. The Hokage proceeded to explain that the patrol group's report indicated that the three creatures had each taken distinct paths. The Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armodillo), for instance, was last spotted heading directly toward Kisaragi Village, situated southeast from Konoha (Hidden Leaf). On another path, the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx) was observed heading towards the ruins of the old Kumamoto Manor, located south of Konoha (Hidden Leaf) and north of Crater Town. Lastly, the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear) was seen heading southwest towards Shukuba Town. Hiruzen further emphasized that only a mere couple of hours had transpired since the escape of the wild beasts. This temporal advantage meant that the teams possessed ample opportunity to close the gap and intercept their designated targets.
After receiving this information, Asuma conveyed his thanks to Hiruzen. The Hokage then inquired once more if there were any further questions to be addressed. Met with silence, Hiruzen interpreted this as an indication that the three teams had no additional inquiries. Consequently, he dismissed them, reminding them that the distribution of the creatures among their respective teams was at their discretion. With nods of understanding and further expressions of gratitude, the teams left the office, thanking the Hokage as they exited.
Exiting the Hokage's office, Kurenai initiated discussions on how to distribute the three creatures among their teams. Kakashi proposed a method: begin by randomly dividing the folders among the three groups. Reading the contents of their assigned folders, they could then jointly assess which team was best suited to track down a specific creature. Asuma and Kurenai acknowledged this strategy with nods of agreement. Following this, Kakashi distributed folders to both of them, signaling the start of the process, which left one folder for him and his team.
Although Kakashi could have independently examined the folder's contents, he chose instead to delegate this task to his students. His aim was to observe their decision-making and critical thinking skills. He recognized that the information in each folder might steer a team toward the creature they were best equipped to handle. Deliberately, he handed the folder to Hinata. He was aware that Sasuke and Shikamaru held their individual perspectives on planning and strategy. This dynamic was familiar to Kakashi – a delicate balance between Sasuke's assertive ideas and Shikamaru's astute analysis.
Through past observations, Kakashi had witnessed this interplay unfold a couple of times. Sasuke would present his plan, often advocating for their team to adopt his approach. In response, Shikamaru's systematic nature would methodically dismantle Sasuke's strategy, highlighting its deficiencies and suggesting alternative paths. Outcomes varied; occasionally, Sasuke's plan prevailed due to its merit or Shikamaru's choice to relinquish the debate due to laziness and a lack of motivation. In other instances, Sasuke would concede the shortcomings of his plan and, albeit grudgingly, accept Shikamaru's suggested course.
With this notion in mind, Kakashi entrusted the folder to Hinata. He envisioned her as a possible bridge between Sasuke and Shikamaru, an equilibrium of sorts. Her role entailed harmonizing their divergent viewpoints and guiding the team toward a collective agreement. Now, all he needed to do was observe his students' responses.
Hinata, driven by curiosity, questioned their sensei's choice. Kakashi offered a simple explanation: each team member should personally delve into the folder's contents and arrive at a decision collectively. He assured them that he would stand by their choice, offering his support and assistance throughout the process. Nervously, Hinata nodded, taking the folder from Kakashi's outstretched hand. She carefully opened it, revealing the information pertaining to the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armodillo).
- The 44th Training Grounds Biodiversity Catalog -
(Yoroi Urokemono)
Creature Report: "Sekka" The Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armodillo)
Creature ID: HD-05AJ1
Compiled by: Koji Sato (Tokubestsu Jounin)
Overview:
In the heart of Shi no Mori (Forest of Death), we've got a real standout – Sekka (the name I gave him, or maybe her... I'm not sure), or the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) as I'd like to call it. This creature's got some impressive tricks up its sleeve that make it a true survivor in this unforgiving forest.
Abilities:
Tetsu no Bogyo (Iron Defense): Sekka's defense game is on point! When it feels threatened, it rolls up into a ball, becoming almost invincible with its tough shell. Talk about natural armor! I even threw a kunai at full force just to see how tough it is, let's just say it only tickled Sekka. Damn projectile just bounced off of it, though the only downside I can see is that Sekka's soft underbelly isn't covered with tough plating.
Tetsu-kyu (Iron Sphere): Related to the ability mentioned above, once Sekka's in ball form, it can move by rolling itself in varying speeds! Move out the way lest you want to be squashed!
Saisei suru Uroko (Regenerating Plates): Sekka seems to possess a unique ability in which it can regenerate its armor whenever it gets harmed, honestly it sounds like Sekka is unstoppable, but I did notice that whenever Sekka is tired, its ability to regrow damaged plating seems to slow down as well. Perhaps there's a correlation? I'll have to investigate further.
Jishin no Fumitsuke (Earthquake Stomp): Sekka's got a move that shakes things up quite literally! It can stomp the ground hard, making shockwaves that throw off other critters. It's like its own jutsu, so thread carefully.
Mizo Hori (Trench Digging): Sekka's claws are like mini shovels. It can quickly dig trenches for itself, excavating dirt like its nothing! Sekka does this so that it can hide from danger as well as dig up food that's buried below the surface.
Behavior, Habitat, and Eating Habits:
Sekka's a burrower – it loves to find cozy spots in the Forest of Death. And that armor isn't just for show. It helps keep Sekka safe from the other predators lurking around. Its menu includes insects, grubs, and roots, which it digs up using its strong claws.
Conclusion:
Sekka's the real deal when it comes to defense! Its armor, tactics, and survival skills make it a top player in Shi no Mori (Forest of Death). No wonder this bugger can hold its own in there!
- End of Report -
Once each of them had absorbed the folder's contents, Kakashi prompted a discussion about the creature described within. Sasuke was the first to offer his thoughts, asserting that their team could handle the creature due to their newfound knowledge of its vulnerability – its soft underbelly. He suggested, however, that they should hold judgment until the other teams' assignments were revealed.
Shikamaru weighed in, proposing that Team 8 might be more adept at capturing this creature, citing Sekka's resilient nature as a robust tank. He went on to highlight the utility of both Kiba and Choji, who could employ their respective clan techniques to dislodge Sekka from underground hiding spots. Kakashi was both impressed and taken aback. He admired their astute critical thinking and found himself surprised that Sasuke and Shikamaru's viewpoints were aligned this time. He acknowledged their responses with a nod before Hinata's voice captured his attention.
Turning his focus to her, Kakashi awaited Hinata's perspective. She shared her insight that, should Sekka become their target, they could utilize her Byakugan (All Seeing White Eye) and their Sharingan (Copy/Mirror Wheel Eye) to locate him even when he was concealed underground. Kakashi acknowledged her contribution and praised the notion as a great idea.
Although they had completed their examination of the folder's contents, Hinata couldn't shake a lingering curiosity. The mysterious creatures dwelling within Shi no Mori (The Forest of Death) left her wondering what other enigmatic entities awaited discovery.
- With Team 8 -
With the folder in her hand, Kurenai beckoned for her students to gather around her so that they could read the contents of the folder together. She opened the folder and held it in a way that all three of her students could get a clear look of its contents, once all of her students were in place, she began reading the information held within the folder.
- The 44th Training Grounds Biodiversity Catalog -
(Kageneko)
Creature Report: "Yami" The Kageneko (Umbral Lynx)
Creature ID: AI-02I8
Compiled by: Koji Sato (Tokubestsu Jounin)
Overview:
Allow me to introduce to you the night stalker of Shi no Mori (The Forest of Death), Yami, the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx). This rascal is pretty crafty and devious, damn bastard almost got me a couple of times but I'm lucky enough to escape in one piece and write this report about him. If I were you, I'd avoid dark places because that's where he usually lurks, so watch your backs!
Abilities:
Eibin na Kankaku (Enhanced Senses): Yami's senses are top notch I tell you! With ears fine-tuned and eyes razor-sharp, he easily picks up on the whispers of the forest, detecting even the faintest stirrings. Gathering thiss information regarding Yami took a helluva long time, it was brutal!
Yukyo no Hoko (Phantom Roar): Now, imagine a roar that's more than just a sound. Yami's got one which causes its prey to freeze in a moment of confusion. I heard Yami do this twice though the first one was from a distance, all my ears could were hear high pitched ringing and I'm pretty sure my hearing is just fine. I honestly don't know how or why a wild animal has this sort of thing, it just simply exists, I guess?
Hakanai Genei (Ephemeral Illusion): This trick of Yami is closely related to the one mentioned above, once he does his roar, it'll freeze his prey in place and the prey would then see illusions. This based on my experience, the second time he roared was when he found me sneaking up on him. I swear I saw like a dozen copies of him! I'm also unsure whether or not he can perform other illusions, further investigation must be done.
Kage tobi (Shadow Step): The sound of Yami's paws are extremely silent. Bastard moves without leaving a trace, an envoy of whispers and secrets, an apex predator that approaches like a phantom. If you want to sneak up on him, you have to be quieter than him!
Maboroshi no Choyaku (Phantom Leap): Yami's jumps from shadows are like nightmares coming to life. Swift, sudden, and fucking scary. But I'll give Yami some credit, it's a masterclass in ambush tactics!
Behavior, Habitat, and Eating Habits:
Yami's playground is the dance of light and dark in Shi no Mori (The Forest of Death). It is a creature of the night for it flourishes when moonlight bathes its surroundings. Yami is no ordinary hunter – his prey varies in sizes; he may go for small critters which are easy game for him or larger ones compared to him if he's up for a challenge. Suffice it to say, the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx) is a virtuoso in the art of stealthy strikes.
Conclusion:
Shi no Mori's (The Forest of Death) tale wouldn't be complete without Yami, the shadow's whisper and the night's secret. It's not just about survival; it's about thriving, about mastering the subtleties of nature's rhythm. Yami, with its elusive presence and refined skills, is a story told through silence, a tale painted with moonlight, and a glimpse into the wild side of things.
- End of Report -
"I see..." Kurenai contemplated inwardly, diverting her attention toward her students to gauge their sentiments about the creature detailed in their assigned folder. Their responses formed an intriguing blend. Kiba exhibited confidence in his honed sensory skills, which had improved considerably since their mission in Yugakure (Village Hidden in Hot Water). Engaging Akamaru, Kiba sought his canine companion's opinion on the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx), and the dog's affirmative yip garnered a smile and affectionate pat from his partner.
Choji and Sakura's perspective on the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx) appeared balanced. While they believed their team could effectively manage the creature if it turned out to be their designated target, they also considered Team 7 better suited for pursuing this particular entity. Kurenai's response was a nod of understanding, an acknowledgement of her students' viewpoints concerning the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx).
With this, the deliberations regarding the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx) concluded, leaving Team 10's folder and its enigmatic contents as the next item to uncover and dissect.
- With Team 10 -
Asuma held the folder in his hand but before he opened it, he saw Kakashi handing the folder to his students, he immediately knew what his colleague was thinking, he knew that Kakashi wanted to see his students' skills in both decision making and analysis when it comes to understanding and absorbing new information. He also wanted to see how his students stood in that regard as well, which is why he decided to hand over the folder to one of his students as well, and not just any one of the, he specifically handed the folder to Shino due to the fact that he knew Naruto and Ino would simply squabble at who gets to hold the folder, and that among the three of them he observed the Shino was the most logical among them.
"Here," Asuma said to Shino which surprised him.
"May I ask why you're handing it to me, Asuma-sensei?..." Shino asked.
"No reason in particular" he replied.
"I see..." Shino responded as he opened the folder to reveal its contents to him and his other teammates.
- The 44th Training Grounds Biodiversity Catalog -
(Kurokama)
Creature Report: "Gouzan" The Kurokama (Obsidian Bear)
Creature ID: N-1SH26
Compiled by: Koji Sato (Tokubestsu Jounin)
Overview:
Alright y'all, this entry is about the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear) (just a name I came up with so deal with it punk). Anyway, I call this one 'Gouzan' because this fella is one thick boy if you ask me. If were to describe him in one word, 'kingpin' comes to mind. Not saying he's the biggest or the baddest, I'm just saying that you don't want to mess with this guy.
Abilities:
Kokuyouishi no Kawa (Obsidian Hide): Gouzan's hide is pretty tough as it is, but like the very stone it's named after, it can transform into an impenetrable barrier. I've tried throwing sharp projectiles at it like shurikens and kunais alike only for them to simply glance off its obsidian-like surface, leaving it unscathed. Mind you, all those projectiles were freshly stoned! This remarkable ability gives him an air of invincibility, as if it's hewn from the very heart of the earth it roams.
Kyouka-sareta Tosshin (Hardened Charge): In moments of confrontation, Gouzan harnesses its incredible strength for an assault that's both relentless and awe-inspiring. Its charge is like an unstoppable force, its hardened exterior plowing through obstacles with unwavering determination. It's a sight that leaves an indelible mark on the landscape.
Surudoi Ha (Razor's Edge): Get this, Gouzan's got claws that might as well be forged from toughest metal there is! I've seen 'em in action, and trust me, they cut through stuff like a hot knife through butter. When those claws come out to play, it's a whole new level of "not messing around".
Yasei no Gekijou (Primal Rage): You ever see a charging bear? Well, picture that, but amped up to 11. Gouzan's charge is like a force of nature itself, all brute strength and determination. And keep in mind, Gouzan's pretty relentless! Once that fucker lays his eyes on you, you better move right away! The ground shakes, and you better believe every critter in the vicinity's booking it. It's like being on the business end of an avalanche.
Gouon no Houkou (Thundering Roar): Alright, buckle up, 'cause Gouzan's got a roar that's no joke. It ain't just about intimidation — it's like the forest itself stops to listen. And let me tell you this, when that roar hits, everything else goes dead silent. It's like a pause button for the wild. Still not sure how something living can produce such a bone-rattling sound. I've even seen some of Gouzan's prey either get stunned in place or be sent flying away from him due to the sheer force of his roar. Note to self, bring earplugs next time.
Behavior, Habitat, and Eating Habits:
Gouzan's imposing figure and territorial instincts position it as an entity not to be messed with in Shi no Mori (The Forest of Death). The Kurokama (Obsidian Bear) predominantly resides in areas with dense vegetation and ample food sources. His diet is pretty much an all-meat one, Gouzan's choice in prey would vary depending on the energy he has. He would go for smaller and easier prey when he's not extremely hungry. There are cases in which Gouzan goes on for days without eating anything, and when he comes out to hunt again, he has a monstrous appetite that needs to be sated. And for that, I pity the creature that becomes his prey.
Conclusion:
Gouzan's abilities reflect its role as a force to be reckoned with in Shi no Mori (The Forest of Death). His dominance, territoriality, and formidable presence contribute to its status as a true embodiment of strength within its wild habitat.
- End of Report -
"So, what's your take on this?..." Asuma inquired of his students.
Shino and Ino exhibited a certain reservation, their reflections on their team's suitability for handling the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear) shrouded in contemplation. Unexpectedly, Naruto's voice rang out, offering his perspective, "Sounds simple enough..." The proclamation left both his teammates and their sensei taken aback. Shino and Ino regarded Naruto with a mixture of bewilderment, while Asuma watched, anticipating an elaboration on Naruto's unanticipated assertion.
Naruto seemed oblivious to the perplexity his statement had incited. "What?..." he queried in response to their collective stares.
Asuma, the ever-watchful mentor, seized the opportunity to probe further. "Not to rain on your parade, kid. But can you explain why you this would be 'simple enough'?..."
Naruto's enthusiasm remained undeterred as he embarked on an explanation. He navigated through his strategy with an assuredness that piqued Asuma's interest. Naruto believed that their team's potential to manage Gouzan was considerable. He outlined a multi-pronged approach wherein he and Asuma would divert the bear's attention, concurrently depleting its energy. He even added that he could use his Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shadow Clone Technique) to distract Gouzan. In this window, Shino and Ino would focus on immobilizing Gouzan, "Heck! Even Shino can help drain Gouzan's stamina using his insects! Once Gouzan is tired, that's when Ino comes in and uses her Shintenshin no Jutsu (Mind Body Switch Technique) to keep Gouzan in place. By then, landing the senbons Hokage-jiji gave us should be a piece of cake, dattebayo!" Naruto's conviction was palpable.
Following a brief moment of contemplation, Shino and Ino found themselves nodding in concurrence with Naruto's proposed strategy. It harmonized with both logical reasoning and their team's inherent capabilities. Meanwhile, Asuma observed with appreciation, not only taken by Naruto's strategic acumen but also by the depth of trust he exhibited in his team. Naruto's confidence resonated deeply, intertwined with a keen comprehension of each member's strengths and distinctive roles within the unit.
"I see... Not bad, kid," Asuma acknowledged, eliciting a foxy grin from Naruto – a symbol of satisfaction and accomplishment.
With every team afforded the opportunity to delve into the contents of their respective folders, the moment arrived to determine which group would undertake the pursuit of each specific creature. All three Jounins (High/Elite Ninja) shared the insights gleaned from their allocated folders, shedding light on the nature of the creatures in question. Subsequently, the teams collectively deliberated, delving into discussions about their respective suitability for the tasks at hand.
After a thoughtful exchange, a consensus was reached. Team 7 would be tasked with tracking down the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx), Team 8 would venture after the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), and Team 10 would maintain their assignment to pursue the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear). With the decisions solidified, the teams concluded their discussions and dispersed to ready themselves promptly. The imminent objective was to secure the wild creatures, ensuring they would not inflict further harm upon the external world.
(A/N: Sorry for not uploading in a while, had to handle some stuff and uhmmm... I guess not feeling like writing for a bit? Not sure but I did join a writing event though I kinda failed at the too (I didn't make the deadline by a couple of hours XD, oh well). Anyway, I have no clue why I keep taking so long to write chapters which included Team 8 lmao. I really apologize but I do hope y'all enjoyed this chapter, next is Team 7, and then Team 8! Love ya and take care! Cheers! ^^)