DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO (NARUTO)
Ch.46 - Animal Control I
- At the Southern Gate of Konoha -
At the village's southern gate, under the bright sun that painted the sky with shades of orange and pink, Kurenai and Asuma found themselves engaged in an earnest conversation. The gentle breeze carried their words as they awaited the imminent arrival of their respective students. The seasoned Jounins (High/Elite Ninja) had already imparted clear instructions to their teams, emphasizing the need for swift procurement of necessary supplies ahead of their upcoming mission. The air buzzed with anticipation.
"Have you made up your mind yet?" Asuma's voice was laced with curiosity.
"No, not yet. What about you?" Kurenai's response held a hint of intrigue.
"I've thought about it," Asuma replied, his tone contemplative.
"And?..." Kurenai's question hung in the air, expectant.
"I mean... The mission is not a problem for me; it's just that I don't want to leave them on their own before the Chunin Exams start; by that time, I should be squeezing in as much training as I can to prepare them..." Asuma explained, his concern evident.
"Relax; the mission is four months from now. You have plenty of time to decide, Asuma. And besides, Hokage-sama wouldn't just get some random shmuck to train them. I'm certain that he'll get someone competent," Kurenai reassured him, a comforting smile gracing her lips.
"Yeah... I suppose you're right," Asuma conceded, a small grin forming as he looked at Kurenai.
"What if I joined this mission? Would you come with me?... Hokage-sama did say that any jounin could go on this mission." Asuma posed, his eyes locking onto hers.
"S-Sure, I don't see why not... But tell me, is it because you think I'd be an asset on this mission, or is there something else on your mind?..." Kurenai's playful inquiry danced between them.
Asuma's cheeks tinged with a hint of embarrassment, his response slightly faltering. "O-Of course you'd be helpful!..." he admitted, a soft chuckle escaping him as Kurenai's laughter rang out, melodious and light.
Kurenai playfully pinched his cheek before leaning closer to him. "You're adorable when you're flustered," she teased, her eyes glinting mischievously.
Asuma chuckled, the warmth of their camaraderie a comforting presence between them. Just as Kurenai was about to turn and check if their students were finally approaching, her lips left a fleeting peck on Asuma's cheek, a wordless gesture that spoke volumes.
As she turned back to scanning the horizon, a rustling sound caught her attention. In the corner of her eye, she spotted Asuma with a cigarette poised between his lips, ready to be lit. Swiftly, she reached out and plucked it from his mouth, her brows furrowing in mock sternness.
"Didn't we agree that you're only allowed to smoke three cigarettes per week?..." Kurenai reminded him, her tone gentle yet firm.
"Oh, come on! It's just one... Tell you what, if I smoke this now, I promise not to touch another one for the entire upcoming week. Deal?..." Asuma negotiated, his eyes dancing with a mixture of mischief and sincerity.
Kurenai's laughter flowed freely. "You? Going cold turkey for a week?... Good one,"
"What's so funny about it?..." Asuma playfully protested, a lopsided grin on his face.
"I really doubt you'd be able to fight off the urge to smoke for a couple of days, let alone an entire week..." Kurenai countered, her amusement evident.
"Think I can't do it? Watch me," Asuma declared with mock confidence, a playful challenge lighting up his eyes.
"Prove me wrong then, but I'm betting that you'd probably give up in a few days. And ALSO! You thought you could hide it from me, didn't you?..." Kurenai shot back, their banter as comfortable as an old, cherished melody.
In Asuma's mind: "Crap... She's onto me..."
"W-What're you talking about?" Asuma's voice carried a sheepish note.
"Cut the crap, Asuma. I know you've got a secret stash of cigarettes in my apartment," Kurenai's tone was unyielding, a knowing glint in her eyes.
"S-Secret stash?... I don't know what you're talking about, I swear!" Asuma's defense was quick, his words laced with feigned innocence.
"Oh, really? Then what's this?" Kurenai's voice held a mix of triumph and accusation. With a swift motion, she produced a pack of cigarettes from her pouch, presenting it to him. Asuma's expression shifted from surprise to stunned realization.
"Yeah, that's right—a pack of cigarettes I found in my apartment. Care to explain, Asuma?..." Kurenai's tone was incisive, her gaze unyielding.
"H-How'd you find my secret stash, Kurenai?" Asuma's question betrayed a mix of curiosity and anxiety.
"I didn't," Kurenai's response was casual, injecting confusion into the conversation.
"Wait, what?... What do you mean 'you didn't'?..." Asuma's confusion was palpable, his brow furrowing.
"I didn't find your secret stash, you dummy. This pack doesn't even have cigarettes in it, you fool!" Kurenai's declaration was accompanied by a flick of her wrist, sending the pack of cigarettes sailing towards Asuma. He caught it, his expression shifting from bewilderment to realization. The pack was surprisingly light. It dawned on him that Kurenai had craftily maneuvered him into acknowledging the truth—he indeed had a secret stash of cigarettes in her apartment.
"Well played, Kurenai, well played..." Asuma's acknowledgment was laced with a mixture of admiration and mild embarrassment. Kurenai's triumphant smile was met with his wry one. She grasped his collar, drawing him slightly closer, her words a whisper meant for him alone.
"Once this mission is done, I want you to get rid of that secret stash. Otherwise, I won't do that thing you like ever again," Kurenai's smirking challenge painted a faint blush across Asuma's cheeks.
Their moment was abruptly interrupted by Ino's voice. "We're here! —what's going on over here?..." Her sudden appearance caught them off guard, prompting Asuma and Kurenai to swiftly distance themselves, their expressions returning to neutrality.
As their students arrived, Asuma and Kurenai subtly distanced themselves, adopting a nonchalant demeanor as if nothing had transpired. "N-Nothing... It's just that your Asuma-sensei over here told a joke that was in poor taste, that's all. Right, Asuma?..." Kurenai's voice wavered, nerves dancing beneath her words, emphasized by a gentle nudge of her elbow.
"E-Exactly! Which was why she pulled my collar, you see?..." Asuma chimed in, his laughter a cover for their previous interaction.
"Right... Anyway, we're ready to go now. We also met Kakashi-sensei and the others along the way." Ino reported.
"That's great! I guess we can now head out now that everyone's here, shall we?..." Kurenai's suggestion held an air of readiness, met with unanimous nods from their students. Asuma motioned for them to move ahead, promising to catch up shortly.
Kakashi's unexpected commentary cut through the moment. "You guys should work on your acting skills; both of you are too obvious." he calmly remarked. The declaration sent shockwaves through both Asuma and Kurenai, dawning on them that perhaps Kakashi had seen through their façade, glimpsing the deeper connection between them.
"W-What do you mean by that, Kakashi?..." Kurenai's voice trembled with apprehension.
Kakashi's gaze shifted between the two with an air of knowing. "Clearly both of you are dating; if you don't want others to find out, then the two of you should do better than that."
Kurenai's initial instinct was to deny, but Asuma's suggestion to be forthright intervened. "How long have you known?..." Asuma's voice held a mix of curiosity and resignation.
Kakashi's reply was candid. "Does it even matter how long I knew that the two of you were dating?..."
"Fair enough... What gave us away then?..." Asuma's curiosity couldn't be contained.
Kakashi's tone turned contemplative. "I'm not sure... Maybe it's because I keep seeing the both of you always together and instances of what just happened earlier."
Acknowledging the truth, Asuma pressed on. "I see... But in any case, don't ever speak a word about this, you hear me?..."
Kakashi's agreement was swift and pragmatic. "Relax, I'll probably forget all about it in a couple of days,".
Affirming Kakashi's words with a nod, Asuma indicated his understanding. The trio of Jounin (High/Elite Ninja) then quickened their pace, moving to rejoin their waiting students.
Time marched on, and the village's landscape gradually shifted around them. With shared purpose, the three groups finally reached a point where their paths diverged. Like threads pulled in different directions, they split up, each group venturing toward its designated destination, their individual objectives calling them forth.
- With Team 8 -
In the heart of the forest, amidst the quiet rustling of leaves, a purposeful journey unfolded. Kurenai and her team moved with determination; their destination set on Kisaragi Village. Yet, this was more than a journey – it was a strategic plan, meticulously crafted to capture the elusive Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo).
As they progressed, Kurenai's words cut through the tranquility, her voice carrying the weight of authority. "Here's the plan, so listen closely," she beckoned, her instructions unfolding like a map before them. The plan was straightforward yet layered, designed to maximize their chances of success. The Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), once a shadow, now left a clear trail for them to follow, its unwitting breadcrumbs guiding the way.
With the clarity of a seasoned leader, Kurenai outlined the plan's two main phases. The initial phase involved careful maneuvering – a calculated dance to draw the creature far from the village while depleting its energy in the process. Choji and Kiba, possessing unique skills, would excel here. Their mastery of their clans' techniques would allow them to divert the creature's path and uncover its concealed movements below the surface.
Meanwhile, Kurenai and Sakura, a steadfast duo, would take on the vital task of safeguarding the villagers. Their focus was to orchestrate the evacuation of the villagers to a much safer location.
But the plan's elegance didn't stop there. The second phase was all about precision. Assuming the creature's exhaustion, Choji would play another vital role, using another one of his techniques, he would immobilize the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) by pinning it down, setting the stage for the Hokage's specialized senbons to come into play. These delicate instruments held the power to sedate the creature, sealing its fate in a tranquil slumber.
With her strategy outlined, Kurenai's next move was one of meticulous preparation. She turned her attention to her students, ensuring that their concerns and questions were addressed. This was essential to guarantee that the upcoming execution would flow seamlessly, each element interlocking like the gears of a well-oiled clock. Through patient discussions, she ironed out any potential wrinkles, shaping their collective understanding into a unified force.
Minutes passed, and patience became their ally as they ventured deeper into the forest. Finally, the moment arrived – their quarry materialized before them. There it stood, engrossed in its task of unearthing its meal from the earth. Serenity cloaked the scene, an aura of tranquility that belied the creature's formidable nature. The Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) existed in a world of its own, unaffected by the concerns of the outside world.
As the hulking figure moved, its massive form seemed to blend with the landscape, a harmonious coexistence that spoke of the creature's raw power and instinctual grace. The quietude was almost poetic, a pause in the grand tapestry of life. Yet, beneath this calm exterior, a story unfolded. The creature's focus remained fixed on its sustenance, the result of a prior meal disrupted by two fierce predators – the Kageneko (Umbral Lynx) and the Kurokama (Obsidian Bear).
At the heart of their meticulously crafted plan, an unexpected juncture emerged – an opportunity to sidestep the intricacies that had been so meticulously laid out. Could their goal be attained with a simpler approach? This new perspective sparked adaptability within Kurenai, a readiness to navigate uncharted waters.
With the distinct senbon poised in her grip, a tool that held the power to redefine their narrative, Kurenai's bearing shifted. Purpose emanated from her as she surveyed her surroundings with meticulous care. Obstacles were methodically cleared, ensuring an unobstructed path for the projectile's trajectory. The senbons were a finite resource, emphasizing the need for measured precision.
Advancing gracefully, Kurenai moved like a hunter, cautious not to disturb the forest's tranquil equilibrium. Before her lay the creature, engrossed in its foraging, unaware of the impending twist of fate. Anticipation hung in the air, shared by the team and seemingly absorbed by the very trees around them.
In a moment of profound focus, Kurenai's breath steadied, aligning with her purpose. The senbon felt like an extension of her will, a conduit for her intent. With a deep inhale, Kurenai launched the senbon with force, propelling it forth as an embodiment of determination. The projectile surged through the air, its trajectory leaving no room for the creature's response. Momentum carried it with an urgency, breaching the creature's resilient hide to deliver the sedative into its circulatory system.
Yet, the creature's reaction defied their expectations. Swiftly, it altered its demeanor, transforming into a defensive ball and hastening away from the sedative's reach. Kurenai's attempt had faltered, an unforeseen outcome that reverberated through the forest.
Regrouping her team, Kurenai relayed the unexpected twist in their plan's execution. Urgency surged as the proximity of the village to the creature's trajectory demanded swift action. The forest, once a passive observer, became the stage for an unpredictable pursuit, echoing with the rhythm of their relentless determination.
The chase was on, a tempest of pursuit that swept through the heart of the forest. Team 8, a relentless force of hunters, tracked the elusive Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), a dance of predator and prey that left its mark on the landscape. Both creature and hunters surged forward, propelling themselves through the forest's wild embrace.
In the throes of the chase, the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) plowed through the foliage, leaving devastation in its wake. The once-serene forest bore the scars of its bulldozing path, a testament to the creature's unrelenting momentum. Trees swayed and toppled, boulders shattered, and the earth seemed to bow before the sheer force of nature.
As the creature surged ahead, its speed increasing in its compact form, Team 8 matched its pace with unwavering determination. Urgency hung in the air, a palpable reminder of the village's vulnerability. Whilst chasing their target, Kurenai signalled for Choji and Kiba to begin the first phase of their plan. Both students nodded and separated from their group to start their two-pronged plan. With resolve etched on their faces, Kiba and Choji diverged from the group, ready to execute their roles. Kiba's bond with his companion was evident as he rallied Akamaru to their shared purpose. "Let's go, Akamaru!" His words were met with Akamaru's exuberant yip, a testament to their unbreakable connection.
"Choji, try to keep up!" Kiba's challenge was met with enthusiasm, Choji primed for the task ahead. "You're on!" he said.
Kiba's clan techniques unfolded seamlessly – the Hijutsu: Jujin Bunshin (Hidden Jutsu: Man Beast Clone), followed by the Hijutsu: Shikyaku no Jutsu (Hidden Jutsu: All-Fours Technique). As Kiba and Akamaru moved in unison, their agility and speed intensified, a testament to their profound partnership.
Yet it was Choji's jutsu that added a distinctive dimension. His contribution unfolded in two variations of the Hijutsu: Baika no Jutsu (Hidden Jutsu: Multi-size Technique) – one causing him to expand tremendously like what he did in Yugakure (Village Hidden in Hot Water), and the other inflating his form into a robust sphere. With his physical transformation complete, he unleashed the Hijutsu: Nikudan Sensha (Hidden Jutsu: Human Bullet Tank). As his spherical form took shape, Choji surged forward with unwavering determination, a force impossible to ignore.
As one, the trio pressed on, a seamless blend of skill and determination. The chase became their anthem, a complex dance of purpose and movement. With the village's safety as their guiding light, they navigated the forest's labyrinth.
"Sakura, you're coming with me. We'll be heading to village to evacuate everyone to a safer location" Kurenai instructed and Sakura nodded acknowledging what she needed to do to help.
- With Kiba and Choji -
"Oi, Choji! You take the right side, Akamaru and I will handle the left!" Kiba's voice carried across the intensity of the moment, his plan clear and focused. Choji's agreement rang through, a shared understanding of their roles.
"Alright, Akamaru. Let's show this shellhead how we roll!" Kiba's voice was brimming with enthusiasm, matched by Akamaru's spirited response.
Unified in purpose, the trio pressed on, skill and determination intertwined. Their movements wove an intricate dance of intent and motion. Now in position, Kiba initiated another jutsu to set their plan in motion. "Hijutsu: Gatsuga! (Hidden Jutsu: Fang Passing Fang)," Kiba's voice resounded with determination, heralding the burst of motion that followed. Spinning at remarkable speed, Kiba and Akamaru hurtled toward their target. In a matter of heartbeats, the distance between them and the Yoroi Urokemono diminished significantly. A combined strike landed, a testament to their prowess. However, the creature's sturdy exterior withstood the assault, leaving the desired course correction incomplete.
Kiba and Akamaru ceased their jutsu, their focus shifting to the outcome of their efforts. Their intervention had indeed changed the Yoroi Urokemono's (Ironscale Armadillo) trajectory, yet the village's safety still hung in the balance, requiring further effort.
"Oi, Choji! You're up!" Kiba's voice carried the directive, coinciding with Choji's passage by his side. In his spherical form, Choji harnessed his momentum, bridging the remaining gap with a resounding impact against the creature's right side. The culmination of Kiba and Choji's actions worked in tandem, a testament to their unwavering resolve.
Kiba's eyes scanned the situation, and the evidence of Choji's intervention became apparent – the Yoroi Urokemono's (Ironscale Armadillo) path now veered away from the village, a success that resonated with their dedication. With the village spared, their task shifted to the final phase – to exhaust the creature to a point where Kurenai and Sakura could administer the sedation.
- With Kurenai and Sakura -
Time flowed onward, bringing them closer to the village's embrace. Before them lay the village, nestled within the heart of the forest. A fortress of wood stood as its sentinel, offering protection against the world beyond. The village was a haven, its tranquil existence surrounded by the guardian walls.
Veiled in mystery, the village held its secrets close. Its history whispered through the rustling leaves; a tapestry woven with enigmatic threads. Amidst the fragments of knowledge, one truth stood out – the village had been home to the Shirogane Clan. This clan, though not renowned for their combat prowess, possessed a unique ingenuity. Their answer to their limitations was innovation – the creation of primitive puppet walkers, an early iteration of the puppet technique that would later become refined.
Both sensei and student made their way to the village and made their presence known, Kurenai then broke the silence by introducing themselves to the citizens that lived in the village using an authorative tone. All villagers then noticed Kurenai and Sakura at the entrance of their humble village. She began to explain why there were there and what they needed to do, Kurenai also explained that a wild beast was on the loose and could potentially head towards the village and wreak havoc and could cause destruction and injuries to the people that lived there. Luckily for them, the villagers were cooperative and listened to what Kurenai said not too long ago. Kurenai then asked if there was a place they could evacuate to which was safe to which one of the villagers suggested that the village's town hall could work as it was nestled up a hill which would provide a good vantage point and a way to distance themselves from the ground below. Kurenai nodded and told them that each and every one of them should quickly head there.
- With Kiba and Choji -
After altering the Yoroi Urokemono's (Ironscale Armadillo) trajectory, Kiba and Choji pressed on, determined to keep their target within their sights. Their strategy involved subtle jutsu strikes, guiding the beast's movements like a conductor guiding a symphony. The dance of their jutsu was delicate, precise timing essential because failing would become the difference between chaos and order.
Choji executed another skillful maneuver, landing a solid hit on the creature's left side this time around. This signaled Kiba, who readied himself with a nod, and he and his faithful companion, Akamaru, launched their jutsu anew. This time, however, their aim faltered; their jutsu missed the mark. The Yoroi Urokemono's (Ironscale Armadillo) survival instincts kicked in as exhaustion set in from maintaining its ball form. Its once-impenetrable exterior began to weaken, leaving it susceptible to damage.
With a whoosh, Kiba and Akamaru sailed past the evasive creature. They halted their jutsu, watching as the Yoroi Urokemono's (Ironscale Armadillo) retreated. "What the?! How the heck did we miss it?!..." Kiba wondered aloud. Choji approached, concern evident in his eyes, and asked for an explanation. Kiba admitted his confusion, affirming that their calculated trajectory should have hit dead-on. Choji offered the notion that perhaps the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) had managed to dodge their attack.
"I guess so... But we don't have time wondering what the heck just happened; we have to move," he said to which Choji agreed, and as a trio, they resumed their pursuit. Amid the chase, they noticed a shift in the landscape – no longer a trench indicating the creature's path. Instead, footprints marked the way, a sign that the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) had reverted to its natural form. Following the tracks led them to a familiar sight – the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), restored and awaiting their next move.
The hulking beast stood firm; its unwavering gaze locked onto all three of them. Hunter and prey engaged in a silent showdown, a battle of wills as they awaited the first move. As Kiba's impulsive nature surged, urging him to spring forward alongside Akamaru, Choji's steady hand intervened, halting him in his tracks. With wisdom born of experience, Choji understood the importance of avoiding sudden alarms.
"Wait, Kiba..." Choji's voice resonated with caution.
"What?..." Kiba's response was swift, his readiness palpable.
"Startling Sekka might not be a good idea, Kiba..." Choji reasoned. He expounded on the need for a thoughtful strategy, suggesting that, for now, observing their target's stationary stance was wiser. This paradoxical choice diverged from their original plan of wearing down the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), yet it held more promise than hasty actions that might squander their energy. They engaged in deliberation, mulling over the optimal course of action. Eventually, Choji recollected a nugget from Sekka's dossier—a vital piece of information.
With this revelation, Choji shared his insight that their quarry would likely seek refuge underground, a respite from its recent exhaustive sprint. The notion sparked an idea in Kiba's mind.
"I've got something... But you might want to step back, unless you're a fan of smelling like piss," Kiba quipped, introducing an element of perplexity.
Choji, puzzled yet intrigued, inquired further. Kiba suggested that Akamaru take the lead in demonstrating the technique. However, proper preparation was essential for success. Kiba detailed the necessity of distracting Sekka to ensure Akamaru's maneuver went unnoticed. Choji accepted his role in this endeavor, recognizing the need for teamwork. Kiba then offered to contribute, underscoring that Akamaru can perform the technique alone. After that, he instructed his canine companion on what he wanted him to do. Akamaru responded with joyful yips. With the plan set, Kiba joined Choji to initiate the diversion.
Kiba withdrew shurikens from his pouch, launching a flurry of them toward the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo). Sekka effortlessly deflected them by shifting his posture, facing away from the duo. Capitalizing on the opportunity to flee, Sekka bolted once more. But Kiba and Choji weren't about to allow an easy escape.
Choji triggered his transformation, rolling into his spherical form using the familiar jutsu. Momentum propelled him forward, rapidly closing the gap and positioning himself ahead of Sekka. As the creature approached, Choji obstructed its path, forcing it to halt abruptly. A quick pivot left Sekka facing Kiba, who had anticipated the move and positioned himself effectively. Trapped between the two, the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) faced an intricate web of hunters.
Sensing the opportune moment, Akamaru took action. From a nearby tree branch, he sprang into the air, executing his technique, Senkai Nyojutsu (Dynamic Marking). In mid-flight, Akamaru twirled while releasing a spray of urine, marking the area below. A portion of this pungent mist reached Sekka, enveloping it in a distinct scent. This olfactory signature became a tracking beacon for Kiba and Akamaru, ensuring that Sekka's movements could be monitored regardless of its attempts to hide. However, this technique's effectiveness could be diminished when detecting targets concealed by barriers, as scent diffusion was hindered.
"Ewww..." Choji's reaction earned a defensive retort from Kiba on Akamaru's behalf. "Oi, if it works, it works," Kiba shot back.
Caught in a strategic pincer movement, Sekka faced limited options. The creature's choice was clear - a swift retreat beneath the earth's embrace, seeking refuge in the safety of tunnels.
With determination burning in its eyes, Sekka delved into the earth, its burrowing a testament to its will to survive. Its form disappeared into the subterranean world, leaving a trail of swift-dug earth in its wake. Kiba observed, marveling at the swiftness with which the creature vanished into its makeshift haven.
Not to be outdone, Kiba and Akamaru sprang into action, driven by a potent blend of instinct and training. Their practiced synchronization was evident, and once more, they executed the technique that had served them well before. Following the scent of Akamaru's strategic marking on Sekka, the pair gnashed and tore at the ground, employing the "Hijutsu: Gatsuga! (Hidden Jutsu: Fang Passing Fang)" to chase down their quarry.
Aboveground, Choji maintained his vigilant watch. He could sense the subtle vibrations, growing stronger with each passing minute. Soon enough, the ground trembled with fervor, and Sekka emerged from its earthen refuge, trailing Kiba and Akamaru in its wake. In an instant, Choji's compacted body collided with the swaying grace of Sekka's tail. A swift dance of impact unfolded, Sekka's tail whipping and striking with uncanny precision. The force of this interaction flung Choji through the air, a burst of motion in reverse, while the echoing shockwaves resonated through his form. In the aftermath, his dazed state hung like mist, a temporary fog obscuring his focus.
Seizing this fleeting advantage, Sekka surged forth, its determination etched into its every movement. Despite exhaustion's claim, its indomitable will propelled it onward, cocooned within its protective sphere. The journey was arduous, yet its endurance remained unyielding.
The temptation of a restful sanctuary below the earth's surface tantalized Sekka's thoughts, a refuge where spent energies could be reclaimed. But Kiba and Akamaru, unflagging in their pursuit, denied respite. A subterranean odyssey ensued, Sekka's path deviating beneath the earth's skin, a desperate bid to elude its relentless trackers.
Choji's journey through the air culminated in a slide across several meters of the forest floor. His body skidded to a halt, a trail of displaced leaves in his wake. Concern in Kiba's voice cut through the aftermath, "Choji! You alright?..."
Rubbing his head with a wince, Choji aimed to soothe the lingering discomfort. The collision's toll was evident, a reminder that strategy could sometimes stand stronger than sheer force.
The brief exchange revealed the limitations of their approach; Sekka's panicked state had turned the tables on them. Yet, with resilience as their guide, they recommenced their pursuit. The unwavering duo pressed forward, a relentless force that refused to yield to adversity.
Their chase was a ceaseless whirl, a dance that circled back to where they had begun, the contours of the landscape retraced by Sekka's desperate flight. Alarm bells rang in Kiba's head as Sekka's trajectory seemed to point perilously towards the village's main entrance.
"Crap... Choji!" Kiba's voice sliced through the tension.
"I know!" Choji's response was swift, determination etched across his features as they surged forward, unyielding in their pursuit of the fleeing Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo).
- In The Village -
"Mommy?... Where are we heading?" The innocence in the child's voice cut through the tension.
"Somewhere safe, sweetie. It won't take long, I promise," her mother's words carried reassurance, a maternal armor against the encroaching fear.
"How long will it take?" The child's curiosity persisted.
"Mommy's not sure, my dear. Just be patient, can you do that for me?" Her response painted a soothing layer over the apprehension.
"Okay..." A resigned agreement emerged from the young girl's lips. In a quiet procession, mother and daughter joined the stream of villagers, their collective footfalls carrying them toward the refuge of the town hall nestled on the hill.
Time unfurled its cloth, and in a moment hurried by urgency, the young girl's doll slipped from her grasp, meeting the ground with a soft thud. The haste of their retreat had sown enough distance for a child's eager steps to bridge swiftly.
"My dolly!" A cry of distress punctuated the air.
"Leave it for now, sweetheart. We'll come back, I promise," the mother's gentle plea fell on determined ears.
"But we can't leave her!" The young girl's conviction held, her small voice a testament to the tenacity of attachment.
"She'll be fine, dear. We're all going to the town hall. No one will take your doll," the mother's attempt at reason hung in the air. Yet, its weight didn't appease the young heart yearning for its lost companion. The girl wriggled free from her mother's grasp, her tiny hand slipping from the protective clasp as she darted back toward the abandoned doll.
The mother's eyes widened in a moment of shock as the unexpected unfolded before her. "Erisu!" Her voice, laced with an edge of urgency, resonated through the chaos that now enveloped them. The call reached eager ears, attracting the attention of not just the villagers around, but also those who were intently focused on ensuring their safety, like Kurenai and Sakura.
The crowd rippled with murmurs and whispers, the tension spreading like wildfire as the perilous situation took center stage. Amidst this uproar, Kurenai's voice sliced through the tumult, a desperate plea to halt the impending disaster. But Eiri, her eyes locked onto her immobilized daughter, couldn't heed these entreaties.
A silent exchange transpired between Kurenai and Sakura. It was one of understanding, a shared comprehension of what needed to be done. Their roles as protectors shifted, their focus now united on the impending tragedy that demanded intervention.
Yet, just as the mother's desperate strides carried her closer to her daughter, her gaze fixed upon the horizon revealed the unmistakable approach of the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo). It advanced with an undeniable and primal force, an embodiment of nature's unyielding will.
Eiri's heart pounded in her chest, her terror battling her desire to rush towards her daughter. Yet, her body seemed to betray her, limbs as unyielding as stone, every motion delayed by the fog of fear. It was a struggle, a battle against the self-preservation instinct that urged her to stay put.
As seconds stretched like eternity, Eiri willed her body into motion, the primal need to shield her child overpowering the trepidation that held her in place. A surge of strength coursed through her veins, and she ran, her motherly instincts transforming into a lifeline that propelled her towards her daughter.
Meanwhile, the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) continued its inexorable advance, the village entrance looming before it. Unbeknownst to Eiri and Erisu, the danger drew nearer, heralded by Kiba and Choji, who were in frenzied pursuit of Sekka. The urgency of the situation bore down upon them, Kiba's voice cutting through the distance, a warning cry meant to shatter the paralysis that held Eiri and her daughter captive.
"GET AWAY!" Kiba's shout echoed, resonating like a plea of salvation. "CHOJI!" His command rang out, an urgent summons to their teammate. Choji, fueled by adrenaline, surged forward, his steps rapid and determined. The stakes were clear – they needed to stand against the force that threatened to steamroll over the lives trapped in its path. Eiri and Erisu's fate hung in the balance, as did the success of their united resolve against the encroaching peril.
Choji's determined roll carried him relentlessly forward, until at last, he managed to position himself ahead of Sekka. With unwavering resolve, he bellowed, "Hijutsu: Baika no Jutsu! (Hidden Jutsu: Multi-size Technique)," and his form began to expand at an astonishing rate. As he grew to an imposing size, he braced himself for the imminent collision with Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo). The impact resonated throughout the tranquil village, a resounding thud that seemed to echo for miles.
The clash between Choji and Sekka was fierce; Choji's unwavering determination stood like an unbreakable wall against the relentless force of the beast's instinctive onslaught. As they grappled, a fierce battle of wills ensued. But in the eyes of the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo), there was no understanding of the situation at hand, only the primal drive of the untamed creature.
Sekka's relentless spin kicked up a swirling haze of dust, casting an eerie veil over the scene. In the midst of the chaos, Choji's gaze briefly shifted towards a perilous reality – the mother and daughter in harm's way. Summoning his inner strength, he roared, his voice a declaration of defiance. With an empowered effort, he pushed back with unyielding vigor, a testament to his determination to protect those innocent lives.
Eiri's heart raced as she embraced her daughter, their fates hanging in the balance. In a heart-stopping moment, Choji's monumental efforts yielded a precarious victory – a mere breath away from Eiri and Erisu. His reassuring smile, a beacon of hope in the chaos, was met with Eiri's trembling affirmation that they were safe. But the beast's primal nature remained unquelled; Sekka reverted to its natural state, a semblance of calm masking the latent power within. With an ability drawn from its dossier, the Jishin no Fumitsuke (Earthquake Stomp), the earth itself trembled under the force of its footfall. The ground quivered, an echo of Sekka's potency. Choji, caught unawares, felt his balance waver as the ground yielded beneath him, and he tumbled onto his back, a dire turn of events that imperiled the lives of mother and daughter anew.
In the nick of time, like guardian spirits summoned by fate, Sakura and Kurenai arrived. With lightning-swift reactions, they whisked Erisu and Eiri to safety, out of harm's way. And yet, Choji's fall could not be halted – a final, earth-shaking thud reverberated, a testament to the battle's intensity. Dust billowed, obscuring the battlefield in a shroud of uncertainty.
As Choji lay sprawled on the ground, the unrestrained rampage of the Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) persisted. It was Kiba's turn to take action. With a commanding gesture, he signaled Akamaru to join him, and the loyal canine responded with an emphatic bark. As a team, they bounded onto the rooftops, traversing the landscape on all fours. Closing in on the tumultuous scene, their synchronized prowess came to life with the invocation of their jutsus. "Hijutsu: Gatsuga! (Hidden Jutsu: Fang Passing Fang)," Kiba's voice carried the determination as he and Akamaru whirled ferociously toward the still-rampaging Sekka. The primal beast, driven by its instincts, caught wind of their approach. Swiftly, it pivoted, presenting its hardened exterior to meet Kiba head-on, despite the fatigue that dulled its regenerative abilities.
A tempest of force collided as Kiba and Akamaru's onslaught struck Sekka's unyielding form. The initial impact, Sekka managed to endure, yet its ability to mend itself lagged behind Kiba's relentless assault. Gradually, Kiba's determination bore fruit, piercing through Sekka's defenses and inflicting a substantial blow. A sharp cry erupted from the creature's throat as it succumbed to momentary stillness. In that fleeting moment, Choji reentered the fray, pinning Sekka to the ground. The Yoroi Urokemono (Ironscale Armadillo) writhed and struggled, a testament to its unyielding spirit, yet Choji's resolve was unshaken – he clung on, determined to restrain the wild force.
"Sakura!... Kurenai-sensei!..." Choji's call echoed, and fortune favored him as both were poised to respond. Their combined efforts rained down a volley of senbons, each tipped with a sedative payload, landing on Sekka's soft underbelly. Sekka's resistance waned, consciousness slipping away as slumber claimed it. Choji's body returned to its natural state as the beast's struggles ceased, and he descended to the ground with a thud, his fatigue evident. Concern laced Sakura's voice as she inquired about his well-being. Choji's response was a reassurance, acknowledging a soreness that would fade in time. Kurenai's praise echoed through the air, recognizing the pivotal roles played by both Kiba and Choji in this arduous mission.
A swell of cheering erupted from the villagers, their jubilation a chorus of victory. The landscape bore scars from the clash, yet the triumph was undeniable. One formidable foe had been subdued, but amid the revelry, the looming reality remained – two more wild forces needed to be quelled.
(A/N: I'll be finishing the other two chapters first and maybe whipping up another TLASC chapter cause It's been a while lmao)