Author's Note
Thanks for all the follows and favorites! It's been cool seeing your reviews, I appreciate them. I also wanted to address a couple of things:
1. I hope all of you haven't been bored by the lack of action. Don't worry, the action is coming, and it will be insane (hopefully). I've been working on fight scene skills and choreography.
2. I don't know if a Sukuna-type character will be in this story; his abilities are too vague and not close to anything we've seen in the Naruto universe. There will be characters who are fundamentally evil, but I don't know if someone with Sukuna's powers will be in this story. If I find a way, I'll try to include him (if you have suggestions let me know).
3. If you want to be a Beta Reviewer or proofreader/editor, let me know and send a private message so we can set that up. I do spend A LOT of time revising but I still miss a couple of things here and there when going through the story.
Sorry for the long message and the longer wait for this chapter. These next two chapters took way longer than expected but it will be well worth it. Anyway, here's the next chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter 7: Land of Grass, Part 2 – Departure
KONOHA SOUTH VILLAGE GATE
Team 7 gathered at the village gate, prepared for their mission. The sun cast a warm glow as travelers bustled around them. Despite the promising start, their sensei was notably absent.
Sasuke leaned casually against the gate, absorbed in a book. Kiyomi paced nervously, her anxiety palpable. Meanwhile, Naruto lounged on the ground, sipping a soda.
"Where is Kakashi-sensei?" Kiyomi fretted, her nerves fraying. "He should have been here by now."
"Relax, Kiyomi-san," Sasuke replied, not looking up from his book. "He'll show up soon enough."
"You two are too calm," Kiyomi snapped, her frustration mounting. "This is an A-rank mission, not some ordinary task."
Naruto, facing away from them, took a leisurely sip. "Chill, Kiyomi-chan," he teased. "You're gonna blow a fuse."
"Easy for you to say!" Kiyomi shot back, her agitation clear. "This is serious!"
"Now that I think about it, I may have to take this mission seriously."Naruto's grin widened mischievously as he turned around facing her. "We might encounter a bijū," he said, faking seriousness.
"A b-bijū?" Kiyomi's voice quivered.
Naruto got up and gestured wildly at her. "Oh yeah, a big, hungry chakra monsters who just love snacking on humans."
Kiyomi's eyes widened in horror. "They eat people?"
Naruto's grin widened even more. "Of course and to make it better their favorite humans happen to be young women."
Kiyomi's expression turned to one of pure horror and she started shaking at this revelation.
Sasuke, seeing that Kiyomi had fallen for Naruto's trap, approached the two. He swiftly struck the top of Naruto's head. "You're not helping, Naruto," Sasuke reprimanded, his patience waning.
"You're no fun," Naruto pouted, rubbing his head where Sasuke had smacked him.
Kiyomi, realizing she'd been pranked, simmered with anger. "Naruto, you jerk!"
Before she could retaliate, Kakashi materialized in a puff of smoke, finally arriving.
"Sorry for the delay, everyone," Kakashi apologized sheepishly. "Lost track of time."
Kiyomi rolled her eyes, skepticism evident. Naruto, however, noticed something amiss.
"Sensei, your fly," Naruto pointed out with a smirk.
Kakashi blushed, hastily adjusting himself. "Ahem, family goodbyes… you know how it is," he muttered awkwardly.
Naruto and Kiyomi exchanged amused glances, understanding the situation perfectly.
"Sure, sensei," Naruto replied, stifling a laugh.
"Right, because family farewells take ages," Kiyomi added sarcastically.
Sasuke sighed, closing his book. "Can we focus on the mission now?"
"Ah, yes," Kakashi cleared his throat, eager to move past the embarrassment. "Let's get started."
And with that, Team 7 departed the village, their mission awaiting.
KUSAGAKURE, 4 DAYS LATER
The path ahead stretched endlessly, winding its way through dense forests and rolling hills, as Team 7 ventured forth towards Kusagakure. Despite the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife, their journey remained uneventful, the only interruptions coming from their own conversations and occasional breaks. With each passing day, the landscape gradually transformed, the towering trees giving way to sprawling plains dotted with wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. The sun beat down relentlessly upon them, its warmth a constant companion as they pressed onward. Team 7 made good time, their pace steady and determined. Four days had passed since they left their village, and as the sun descended toward the horizon once more, Kakashi called for a halt.
"Alright, team," Kakashi announced, his voice carrying across the vast expanse of the plains. "Let's call it for today. We'll journey to her last known location tomorrow morning". Kakashi looked around for a place to set up camp. He spotted a collection of trees in the clearing. "There, that spot looks good. We'll sleep in the treetops."
Team 7 leaped to the trees and sat on their branches. They sat quietly as they consumed their food pills.
Mid-chew, Naruto spoke up, "These taste like shit." Despite his disgust that didn't stop him from throwing two more into his mouth.
Kakashi smiled from underneath his mask. "My old teammate used to say the same thing, but you'll get used to it… eventually."
Silence returned to the group as they sat there for a few minutes until Kiyomi spoke up. "Sensei," she began tentatively, her voice soft yet filled with genuine interest, "why do you cover your face?"
"To hide it, of course." Kakashi replied, messing with his student.
Kiyomi deadpanned at her sensei. "Um,ok. But why do you cover your left eye?"
Sasuke and Naruto leaned in to hear better. Sasuke more than Naruto as he was 95% sure what was underneath their sensei's hitai-ate, he just wanted to hear the story.
Kakashi's visible eye softened at the question and a faint smile appeared on his lips from underneath the mask. He had assumed he would eventually get asked this question by these three, but it still didn't make answering the question any easier.
"It's a long story," Kakashi replied, his gaze drifting off into the distance as the memories flooded in. "But, when I was about two years younger than you three. I was on a 4-man team with my sensei being the Fourth Hokage."
Kiyomi's eyes widened. "Your sensei was the Fourth Hokage. That's amazing. How was he?" she asked.
"He was a wise, strong, and loving teacher. He considered his students to be a part of his family," Kakashi said somberly. "He was an amazing man that I looked up to and still look up to this day."
Sasuke nodded his head. He thought the Fourth Hokage was incredibly strong and powerful as well. He had immense respect for him and was impressed that their sensei had been trained by him.
A grin spread across Naruto's face. "Ironic, isn't it?"
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, "what do you mean?" he asked confused. Kiyomi had a puzzled look as well.
"Never mind me, continue your story Kakashi-sensei," Naruto replied, waving off their glances.
Kakashi looked at Naruto wondering if he knew of his heritage. He'll have to ask him privately at another time. "Our team was quite similar to this one, but regardless, during the Third Great Shinobi War, we were sent out on a mission to destroy Kannabi Bridge. During that mission, one of our teammates, Rin Nohara, was captured by Iwa Shinobi. I elected to abandon her and complete our mission while my other teammate, Obito Uchiha, disagreed and went to save her."
The three genin nodded attentively, listening closely to their sensei's story.
"During the rescue mission, I lost my left eye and Obito got crushed by a falling boulder, intended for me. As a final gift, he gave me his Sharingan to watch over Rin and protect the village."
Naruto leaned back against the tree, nodding his head in understanding. "So that's why you emphasize teamwork."
"What happened to Rin, your other teammate? Kiyomi asked. "Is she still around?"
Kakashi paused for a moment. "No, she died on a mission towards the end of the war…" he trailed off with a pained expression. "I'm the only one left."
The genin stayed silent, reflecting on their sensei's story, the mood turning somber.
Kakashi sensing this dreariness, tried to lighten up the mood before it got too depressing. "So… you've got any dark secrets Kiyomi-chan? Since you're so interested in mine," he said, giving her an eye smile. "Or maybe you would like to tell us about the boy you like?"
"Huh!?" Kiyomi said, her eyes bulging as she turned bright red. "Wha-? I-I-I…" Kiyomi stuttered.
Kakashi got closer to her. "So, who is it?" he asked again, knowing full well who it was.
"Ha! ~Kiyomi-chan's got a crush~" Naruto teased, "I wonder who it is?"
Sasuke and Kakashi almost fell off their tree branches. Was Naruto really this dense?
"Anyway…" Kakashi said, regaining his composure. "Don't worry Kiyomi-chan, your secret is safe with me." He said, giving her a thumbs up.
"Ahh, come on Kakashi-sensei." Naruto begged. "Who is it?"
"Let's say it's someone you know," Kakashi replied, letting out a small laugh.
Kiyomi mumbled something unintelligible under her breath as she regained her previous composure.
"But since you're so interested in her secrets. What's up with the shades, four eyes?" Kakashi asked. "I just assumed you were trying to copy my look but failed miserably."
A tick mark formed on Naruto's face. Kiyomi let out a laugh while a small smirk formed on the corners of Sasuke's lips.
"As if," Naruto scoffed, "I could say the same for you."
Mid laugh, Kiyomi asked, "Are you two related?"
"No," they replied in unison.
"Oh, uh, sorry for asking," she responded, turning her away in embarrassment.
Kakashi turned back to Naruto. "Now Naruto, don't try to dodge the question. What's with the glasses? Are you blind or trying to hide your ugly eyes?"
"I'll have you know my eyes are beautiful," Naruto said, "and no, I'm not blind." He removed his shades, revealing his blue eyes. "As I've said my eyes are special."
"Are they a dōjutsu? Like the Sharingan or Byakugan," Kiyomi asked.
Naruto smiled. "My eyes are stronger than both… they are called the Rikugan (Six Eyes)."
"R-rikugan?" Kiyomi said, "But wait, why do you wear the glasses if your eyes are stronger than the Sharingan and Byakugan?"
"Well, you see, unlike the Sharingan and Byakugan, I cannot deactivate my eyes. They are always on." Naruto responded.
Kakashi raised an eyebrow. "How come you don't burn through your chakra reserves from having them always on?"
Naruto touched his temple. "My eyes don't require chakra to use, but they can cause fatigue from overstrain. When my eyes are not covered, I can see everything. Think of them as high-definition cameras. While the normal person has 20/20 vision, I have 70/20 vision." Naruto closed his eyes. "But this does have a drawback as due to my extrasensory perception, my brain is constantly fed information. So, to prevent my brain from frying I wear blacked-out shades to limit the information I take in." He said, opening them.
Kakashi, Sasuke, and Kiyomi nodded in understanding of what he told them.
"So how do you see with the shades on?" Kiyomi asked. "You said the shades limit the amount of information you receive but how can you see through them?"
"Good question. I can see by examining chakra flow. All living things have chakra within them so that's no problem. The hard part was trying to differentiate the non-living from the living." Naruto smiled. "It was a pain but eventually I got the hang of it."
"Wait," Kiyomi said, "so when you have your glasses on you can't see people, like physically?"
"Yes, glasses on – chakra flow, glasses off – everything. This is actually my first time getting a good look at you three since we became Team 7."
"Oh…" Kiyomi said. "Well, if that's the case, um, then… h-how do you think I look?"
Naruto rubbed the back of his head before answering. "Uh, I t-think you look, uh, quite good. Your physical features are, um, appealing," he said, awkwardly.
Kiyomi looked down with a smile on her face while Kakashi gave a thumbs-up to Naruto. Sasuke rolled his eyes and flipped to the next page of his book.
"What's with the thumbs-up?" Naruto asked.
"~Oh, nothing~," Kakashi replied. He rubbed his hands together "As much as I enjoy seeing this awkwardness, it's time to get some shut eye. We need to be ready for any threats tomorrow. We will rotate shifts every 2 hours; I'll take the first watch."
And with that the three genin got as comfortable as they could on their tree branches and drifted off to sleep.
KUSAGAKURE VILLAGE ENTRANCE
After an hour of traveling, they reached what should be just outside the village gates, instead they were greeted with a black barrier expanding far and wide.
As Team 7 approached the black barrier looming before them, a sense of foreboding settled over the group like a heavy shroud. The barrier, pulsating with an ominous energy, cast a shadowy veil over the landscape, obscuring any hint of what lay beyond. Waves of dark, crackling electricity danced along its surface, emitting an eerie hum that sent shivers down Kiyomi's spine.
"What is this?" Kiyomi asked, she had never seen anything like it.
Naruto walked to the black barrier, looking it up and down. "It seems to be an advanced barrier. I believe it's S-rank fūinjutsu."
S-rank? This barrier is serious business, Sasuke thought.
Naruto reached out to touch the barrier but was shocked by black electricity as he placed his hand on the surface. "Oww," he said, recoiling from the shock.
"Naruto, are you alright?" Kakashi asked.
"Yeah, I will be." Naruto responded, shaking his hand. "But I believe I can't go inside this barrier."
"What do you mean?" Kakashi asked. He wasn't terrible at fūinjutsu, it just wasn't one of his strong suits; this was one of the reasons he never learned Hiraishin. Regardless, this barrier was beyond him.
"When I outreached my hand, the barrier recognized my chakra signature and reacted negatively. Whoever put this does not want me in; I must be a threat to their plans." Naruto smiled. "Which can only mean one thing."
"There's a traitor in Konoha." Sasuke finished. "They must've fed whoever put this up information regarding your abilities. They may have orchestrated or watched the attack on the Uchiha compound."
"Bingo!" Naruto put a hand on his forehead. "This mission keeps on getting better and better. I wonder if anyone else is labeled as a threat."
Kiyomi, Sasuke, and Kakashi put their hands to see if they could pass through. They were granted entry.
Naruto chuckled. "Wow, Kakashi-sensei. Whoever put this barrier up, must really hate you. The disrespect is real."
Kakashi ignored Naruto's comment and faced Sasuke and Kiyomi. "It looks like it's going to just be us three."
"Shouldn't we turn back? This mission has already thrown in so many unknown parameters," Sasuke asked, caution in his voice. He didn't like this.
"When going on missions, shinobi must have the ability to adapt regardless of the circumstances. In this case we'll have to continue without Naruto." Kakashi spoke. However, he did share Sasuke's skepticism; first a genin squad is assigned an A-rank mission and now encounters an S-rank barrier. Something was amiss. "We have a mission to complete. All we can do is rely on our skills and communication to maneuver through these changes."
"Just when I thought this was going to be one boring rescue mission," Naruto sighed. "Well, I guess this is where we go our separate ways. Good luck," he said to his team.
"Sensei, is this a good idea?" Kiyomi asked.
"It's the only option we've got," Kakashi said. He turned towards Naruto. "Make sure your earpiece is in, I'll contact you in case things go south."
Naruto nodded as he sat down on the ground. "I'll be here, waiting."
Kakashi turned towards Sasuke and Kiyomi, "Are you two ready? We may not be able to leave once we enter. If you don't think you can handle this, you can wait here with Naruto."
The twins looked at each other before looking back at their sensei with a determined face.
Kakashi smiled at the determination and heart of his genin. "Let's go." The three walked through the barrier as darkness enshrouded them, cutting off all traces of the outside world.
When they reached the other side, they were greeted by a forest with tall grassy plains as far as the eye could see. The sky was filled with turbulent clouds as it turned gray with wind picking. Before them stood the village gate, however, there were no guards. Even stranger, beyond the village gates, the village seemed to be too quiet; you couldn't hear or see any commotion in the distance. Huts and homes were sprawled about but no sight of any civilians or shinobi.
"The comms aren't working. It doesn't look like we can contact Naruto, nor can he contact us." There's also something throwing off my sense of smell as well. I wonder if it's the effects of the barrier. Kakashi weaved hand signs before saying, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu (Summoning Jutsu)!", slamming his palm on the ground. A 'poof' of smoke appeared then gave way to a miniature pug wearing a blue shinobi outfit. "Pakkun, I need your help for a rescue mission." Kakashi pulled out a strand of red hair from his pack. "I need to find Karin Uzumaki; something is throwing off her trail inside this barrier."
Pakkun went up to the hair and sniffed it. "I've got her scent," he said. "It's in this direction," the pug said, pointing southwest.
"Wait, the dog can talk?" Kiyomi asked.
Pakkun looked in her direction. "You've got a problem with that," he responded.
"Uh, no," she said, not making eye contact.
"Lead the way." Kakashi said to Pakkun. "We've got no time to waste."
Pakkun nodded and Team 7 carried onward.
After journeying across the grassy plains, they came across a tower in the middle of the village with barred doors, cracked pavement, and broken windows. There were dead bodies littered around the front of the tower; Kusagakure civilians and shinobi lay on the ground torn apart.
Kiyomi around with horror, "What happened here?" she croaked. The surrounding area was devastated with burnt homes, blood trails, and broken pavement.
Sasuke looked around taking in the sight. This wasn't new to him – he had seen his clan destroyed when he was child – this was nothing.
A bloodied hitai-ate buried in the ground caught Kakashi's attention, he walked over to it and bent down, grabbing the forehead protector, wiping off the dirt. "This explains it," he said sternly.
"What is it sensei?" Kiyomi asked as she and Sasuke moved closer to their sensei.
Kakashi lifted up the headband, revealing the symbol of Kirigakure (Hidden Mist Village). "Kirigakure shinobi have been through here." Kakashi stood up, "this explains the dead bodies but doesn't explain the devastation. They've always been ruthless but attacking this far from their borders… it doesn't make sense." he trailed off.
As Kakashi was thinking about this revelation, Pakkun alerted him, interrupting his contemplation. "Kakashi, we've got a group approaching us! Four, no five shinobi coming at rapid speed," he barked.
"Damn, this barrier is really messing with my senses." Kakashi looked at his genin. "Quick, conceal your presence and hide in the bushes," he ordered before disappearing.
As the twins went to hide, a grotesque hand grabbed Kiyomi's leg. "H-h-elp m-m-ee," the voice cried out.
Kiyomi's eyes widened in horror as she looked down at a middle-aged man, his body ravaged by cuts and bruises, his legs severed at the knees leaving raw, bloodied stumps, and his right eye gouged out, leaving behind a gaping hole.
"I-I-I…" Kiyomi froze from the sight she beheld. Sasuke seeing his sister in this state of terror, summoned Gama and acted quickly.
The frog shikigami arose from the shadows and pulled the twins into its mouth before hopping off in the brushes nearby. As soon as Gama made it to the bushes five shinobi arrived; katanas on their backs and hunter masks with the symbol of Kiri on them, indicating that these were ANBU members.
This isn't good… ANBU out this far. Kakashi looked at Gama's position. If it was just me, I could dispatch them quickly and continue on with the mission but I've got to watch out for these two.
One of the ANBU saw the bloodied man begging for life and unsheathed his katana. "P-p-lease I-I-I beg you…" the man gasped out. His cry was deafened by the sound of metal plunging into his neck.
The ANBU wiped the blood from his blade, looking to his comrades. "Our priority is the girl. Find her and kill anyone who stands in the way." The remaining ANBU nodded before disappearing at high speeds.
After a few moments of their departure, Team 7 emerged from their hiding spots. Gama released Sasuke and Kiyomi from its mouth and Kakashi moved to their location.
"This must be an invasion. We've got to find Karin quickly." Kakashi stated.
Kiyomi, still shaken up, spoke, "W-wait sensei. What about the people in this village? We can't abandon them."
Kakashi looked at her silence, contemplating the best way to respond to her. Kiyomi was full of hope and naive, however, sometimes you can't save everyone. Innocents died every day and many more would die; this was the way of the shinobi world. Before Kakashi responded to her, Sasuke interjected.
"Our mission is to locate and rescue Karin Uzumaki." Sasuke spoke coldly, "What happens to this village is not our responsibility."
"What?" Kiyomi looked at her brother. "How can you say that?! We have to save people. That's what shinobi do."
Sasuke closed his eyes. "Shinobi do not save people, we complete missions and that's it." He opened his eyes, staring into his sister's. "I have no intention of risking my own life to save people I had no intention to save in the first place."
Kiyomi grabbed her twin's shirt collar. "What do you mean? These people are innocent."
Sasuke looked at his sister calmly. "Do you know why we were sent on this mission in the first place? This village has been abusing Karin. Taking advantage of her medical ninjutsu and using her as a tool for their own personal and twisted gains." Kiyomi's grip softened a bit. "I know you want to save them, but these people are not good."
Kiyomi re-tightened her grip. "It doesn't matter if they aren't good people. Everyone's made mistakes in their life but we all can do good. To be forgiven for our crimes. If I turned evil, you would try to save me, right?!" she shouted back.
The twins looked at each other intensely.
"That's enough," Kakashi commanded, feeling the tension between the two. "We need to stay together as a team. We've already encountered things that were not a part of the original mission parameters. We need to stay vigilant for anything else unexpected―." Kakashi's lone eye widened.
At that moment, Team 7 felt a sinister presence. The killing intent, the bloodlust, and the pure evil they felt was immense.
"W-w-what is this?" Kiyomi asked, her legs shaking as if they were made out of jello.
Sasuke looked around. "What the hell?" he hadn't felt a presence like this since the night of his clan's destruction.
Kakashi narrowed his visible eye as he stared intensely at the new figure that arrived a distance in front of Team 7.
"~Ahh, you're sensei's right, you know~?" A slithery voice spoke.
The twins turned their heads in the voice's direction.
They saw a malevolent figure before them. "~You never know who you'll come across~" the voice spoke, extending its tongue out and licking blood off his face. "As long as darkness thrives, I will always be lurking in the shadows, waiting to claim what is rightfully mine," he said with a chilling smile, his snake-like eyes staring into their souls. "~And right now… you two… are MINE."
Naruto impatiently kicked at rocks as he waited outside the barrier. The dense forest behind him pulsated with life. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting shifting patterns on the forest floor, while the rustling leaves and distant stream murmurs filled the air. His team had been gone for over 30 minutes, and his attempts to break the barrier proved futile. The seals were too complex for him; whoever put this up was better than him at fūinjutsu.
"ARGH!" Naruto shouted, causing nearby birds to fly out of the trees. "This is so boring!" He said, sinking back onto the ground with a pout. But just as hopelessness loomed, a subtle disturbance in the air caught his attention. His lips curled into a confident smile. "Finally…"
Without warning, dozens of deadly projectiles hurled towards Naruto from all directions. Reacting swiftly, he formed a hand sign. "Mukagen no Jutsu: Mugen (Limitless Technique: Infinity)," he exclaimed, halting the projectiles mere inches from his exposed back.
Suspended in mid-air, the lethal array of weapons formed a field between him and his unseen assailants. Rising to his feet, Naruto turned to face his attackers, getting ready for the fight.
Three Kirigakure ANBU materialized in the treetops before him. "So you're Naruto Uzumaki?" one spoke. "We've heard you're strong. Let's test that, shall we?" they said, drawing their katanas.
A grin spread across Naruto's face as he confidently strode through the suspended field of kunai and shuriken. "I'm down for that," he called out, excitement in his voice, "but let's set a rule." With a casual flick of his wrist, he brushed aside stray kunai.
The ANBU exchanged puzzled glances. "A rule?"
"I don't want to get yelled at by my sensei for making a ruckus. This is an infiltration mission after all." Naruto explained, his grin widening. "If you cry and apologize for your pathetic attempt, I won't kill you," he said, sinisterly. "That's our rule."
"Tch, this damn brat!" The ANBU jumped down and without hesitation charged at Naruto, who chuckled, cracking his knuckles.
"Now this'll be fun," he responded giddily.
KUSAGAKURE HOSPITAL
"Hurry up and heal him you brat!" A tall Kusagakure shinobi yelled to a red-haired kunoichi not before sending a furious backhand.
A loud thud was heard as brown glasses went flying and a body hit the floor hard. The girl looked up at the man with hate in her eyes as she reclaimed her glasses. She had long red hair that extended past her shoulders. She wore a brown jacket with a chainmail shirt underneath, black shorts, long black thigh-high stockings, and black shinobi sandals.
The Kusagakure shinobi looked at her with disgust. "You should be grateful, Karin. We took in an outsider like you and gave you home."
Karin looked around the hospital. There were many injured; the village had been attacked by Kirigakure without warning. No one knew where they came in from or how they got in unnoticed, it was if they were transported here by someone or something.
She had secretly hoped the attackers were the Konohagakure shinobi that had been promised to rescue her, but much to her dismay it wasn't. It had been many days since she contacted their spies… she was starting to lose hope that she would be rescued and freed from this hell. Anywhere was better than here.
"Now heal him or your glasses will be the last thing you'll have to worry about," he spat.
Karin stood up from the ground, her gaze flickering briefly to the injured man lying in the hospital bed. With a deep breath, she repressed her tears, steeling herself for what she was about to do. She extended her arm towards him, offering herself for him to bite, a grim acceptance of her role as a healer in this brutal village.
But before the man could make contact, the door to their wing exploded inward with a deafening crash. Karin's heart leaped into her throat as the chaotic sounds of battle flooded the room. Screams pierced the air as the Kirigakure ANBU mercilessly cut down anyone in their path, their cold efficiency sending a shiver down Karin's spine. In the midst of the chaos, the tall Kusagakure shinobi was nailed with a kunai and dropped dead.
Seizing the opportunity amidst the turmoil, Karin scrambled underneath a nearby bed, her mind racing with desperation. She wasn't a fighter, but she knew she had to find a way to survive this carnage; if she did she would be free. The stench of blood filled the air and lifeless bodies littered the floor, as she hunkered down, seeking refuge in the shadows.
But her brief respite was shattered in an instant as the bed she was hiding under was violently thrown aside. Karin shrieked and her heart pounded louder as she protected her ears from the sound of the metal frame hitting the wall. She looked up, her breath catching in her throat at the sight of the bloodied mask of a Kirigakure ANBU looming over her.
A blood-stained hand reached out to grab her. No, not again….. The hand inched ever so close to her face. Please… someone save me! Karin thought. She closed her eyes and tensed her body preparing for the worse. But nothing happened…. After a few moments, she opened her eyes to see a white-haired with black glasses staring at her.
"Oh you're alive? Thought I'd lost you there." The boy said, smiling at her. He slightly lowered his glasses, revealing his blue eyes.
Karin's eyes widened. Her mind flashed back to a distant memory, a time when a kind soul had helped her. It was when she had been sent to the North Fortress during the bloody war with the Kaguya Clan. On her way to heal Kusagakure troops she had been captured by members of the Clan who planned to have their way with her, but she was saved by a boy, two years older, with similar white hair. She couldn't shake the feeling of déjà vu as she stared into the boy's blue eyes. There was a familiarity in his gentle gaze, a flicker of warmth that stirred a long-buried memory within her.
Karin was taken out of her thoughts as a hand waved across her face.
"Hello? Anyone home," the boy said.
Karin returned to reality before speaking. "Sorry… you just looked like someone I knew." she responded somberly, not before standing up and dusting herself off. "I'm assuming you're from Konoha?"
"Of course, I'm Naruto Uzumaki." Naruto stated, "but there's no time for introductions as more ANBU are on their way."
"U-u-z-umaki?" Karin mouthed; she was shocked to know there were other members of her clan still alive.
Heavy footsteps could be heard as five more Kirigakure ANBU barged through the open hospital wing. "There she is!" one shouted. "Get her!"
"Yep, it looks like it's time to leave," Naruto said, placing his palm on Karin's back.
Karin felt her body become weightless as she was lifted up by Naruto. "Huh? I'm floating."
"Bye losers!" Naruto's taunt echoed through the room as he leaped gracefully out of the gaping hole in the ceiling he had created. With Karin securely in tow, he landed on the rooftop and swiftly traversed the terrain.
"Where are we going?" Karin's voice cut through the rush of wind as they sprinted across the rooftop, her expression a mixture of fear and curiosity.
Naruto spared her a quick glance, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "To meet my team," he replied, his tone brimming with confidence. Without hesitation, he vaulted over the edge, descending graciously to another section of the hospital rooftop.
As they touched down, Naruto's senses sharpened, alert to the presence of their pursuers. Five ANBU materialized atop the surrounding rooftops, their stark black-clad figures contrasting against the bright sky. One positioned near Naruto's location, two flanking them further back, and two more directly in front, forming a barrier of opposition.
"Jeez… You guys don't know when to give up, do you?" Naruto's voice cut through the air, laced with a hint of amusement despite the gravity of the situation.
The ANBU Captain stepped forward; his demeanor unwavering. "Hand over the girl. If you don't, we will have no choice but to kill you," the ANBU Captain said. The other ANBU braced themselves, their weapons at the ready, eyes fixed on their target.
Naruto's smile widened a glint of defiance in his eyes. "Like hell, I'll hand her over," he declared, his tone laced with determination. With a swift motion, he raised his hand, channeling his chakra into his technique.
In an instant, the ANBU positioned north and south of Naruto were ensnared by an unseen force, hurtling towards each other with alarming speed. The sickening sound of their necks snapping echoed through the air as their bodies collided and crumpled to the rooftop, lifeless and unmoving.
What was that? Karin thought in awe of the power displayed by Naruto. She had never seen anything like this.
The ANBU Captain tensed up. "What did you just do?" he asked, panic spreading through his body, but not shortly after he calmed himself. "Hmph, we don't need an explanation to kill you." He spoke, signaling to the two other ANBU to attack.
They jumped down from the positions, landing viciously, before moving at high speeds at Naruto with the intent to kill.
"Don't be so sure of yourself now," Naruto responded, maneuvering Karin out of harm's way as she let out a cry of discomfort.
The ANBU reached the boy's position, targeting his neck, however, their attacks stopped before they could deliver a crushing blow.
"What the hell is this?" One of the ANBU asked as he tried to move his weapon closer but was unable to.
"It's Infinity. Achilles and the Tortoise to be exact." Naruto peered at them, confusion etched on their faces, "It's important to study, ya know?"
Two swift and precise punches connected with their faces, rendering them unconscious, as their bodies fell to the ground with a thud. With a graceful motion, Naruto brought Karin down from her elevated position, her eyes wide with astonishment at the speed and efficiency of Naruto's technique.
Wow, that was so fast… I could barely see those attacks, Karin thought.
Naruto peered at the ANBU Captain. "It's a shame really. I can see that you possess a powerful kekkei genkai, Futton (Boil Release), but you're still weak."
The ANBU Captain gritted his teeth. "How do you know what my kekkei genkai is?" he asked, perplexed by this boy's abilities. This was beyond what information they had been given.
Naruto removed his glasses, "Unfortunately for you. I have good eyes," applying his technique to suspend his glasses above his palm. "You see, my kekkei genkai is like a convergent series of infinite numbers. Anything that approaches me grows slower and slower, and ultimately, it fails to ever reach me. When I amplify my Mugaken no Jutsu (Limitless Technique), I get what you might call a natural negative number. It creates a single imaginary apple. Though it is surprisingly inconvenient," he added. "I can't create a reaction too large near myself, and if I start worrying about the vectors it becomes a mess."
Three kunai sliced through the air aimed at Naruto. The ANBU Captain had hoped to catch Naruto off-guard but they did not breach his Mugen. "Tch," he said, retreating in the opposite direction. He's revealed how his technique works. It'd be best to withdraw and report this to the Mizukage.
Naruto let the kunai drop as he placed his glasses back on, watching the Captain disappear behind the adjacent building. "But that's all just the proper operation of the technique."
"Uh, Naruto. He's getting away." Karin asked, perplexed by his actions. "Why did you explain your technique?"
Naruto smiled down at her. "You'll soon see," he said, turning towards the direction where Captain had retreated to and extending his right arm. "Cover your head."
Karin hesitated but obeyed, placing her hands over her head. Suddenly, they were propelled through the building in an instant. The sound of shattering glass filled the air as they glided amidst broken window frames and splintered furniture.
The unsuspecting ANBU Captain found himself ensnared in the suspended field of debris. He looked bewildered, taking in the sight of a cowering Karin and a wide-eyed Naruto, his grin carrying a hint of mischief, his right palm still extended.
"This next move is the divergence of infinity," Naruto announced, shaping his hand into a toy gun. "My reversed chakra technique... Gyakuten Mugaken no Jutsu: Aka (Reversed Limitless Technique: Red)!"
A crimson radiance filled the space as a concentrated red sphere materialized on Naruto's fingertips. The glow intensified, casting its hue across the faces of those nearby. Its luminosity increased until the entire room was red.
The ANBU Captain closed his eyes, bracing for the worst. Still, as swiftly as the red glow appeared, it began to dissipate until it vanished entirely, leaving Naruto, Karin, and the Captain suspended in mid-air.
After a short moment, the Captain slowly opened his eyes, realizing that he was still alive. He breathed a sigh of relief, "I thought it was over," he muttered.
"Ah, well, it was worth a shot," Naruto said, sounding disappointed. "But this isn't over!" With that, he delivered a swift, powerful punch to the Captain's face, sending him crashing to the ground along with the glass and debris that had been suspended moments before.
Naruto grinned. "With that settled, let's track down my team."
Karin glanced at Naruto, her eyelid twitching. He was one interesting individual. "Could you, um, set me down? Floating like this is making me queasy."
"Can't do that, sorry," Naruto replied. "We need to head to my team. They stumbled into a barrier, probably baited with your scent to ensnare them while keeping me out."
As Karin absorbed his words, realization dawned on her. "So that's why they had me set it up. I must've been exposed when trying to contact your spies, and they sprung a trap to draw your team in..."
Naruto furrowed his brow. "What are you going on about?"
"Sorry, it's just..." Karin trailed off, gathering her thoughts. "I was ordered to raise the barrier by my—their village leader. But we need to act fast. They're in grave danger."
"Why? What's waiting for them inside? Traps? Explosives?" Naruto asked, growing more concerned.
Karin shook her head solemnly. "No, something far worse. A monster that's plagued this village for years."
"A monster?" Naruto's interest was piqued. "What is it?"
"Not what, whom. One of the Densetsu no Sannin (Legendary Sannin)," Karin revealed. "Arguably the strongest among them. This individual is..."
Sasuke and Kiyomi stood in fear from the presence of the man in front of them. Kakashi stood firm in a defensive position, on guard as he moved in front and shielded his genin from the waves of pure evil crushing them.
Before them stood a man with pale skin, golden eyes with slitted pupils, purple markings around his eyes and fang-like teeth resembling that of a snake. He had pronounced cheekbones and straight waist-length black hair with some locks covering and framing his face, reaching beyond his shoulders. He wore plain gray garbs with a black polo and pants underneath, a dark-gray flak jacket, blue tomoe-shaped earrings, shinobi sandals with bandages around his calves, and a hitai-ate with an unknown symbol brandished on the metal.
"Now it's starting to make sense. The mission, the barriers, and the dead bodies… It was you all along. Wasn't it Orochimaru?" Kakashi spoke.
"O-O-rochimaru?" Kiyomi stuttered. She didn't know who this was but saying that name sent shivers down her spine.
Sweat dropped from Sasuke's face as he looked anxiously at the looming figure before them. There's no way… if it's really him we're in big trouble, he thought. He prepared himself despite his body's protest.
"Of course, it's me. You've made my job so much easier that I thought I'd show myself and reward you." Orochimaru spoke, his voice cold and menacing. "And now that I've found them, I'm afraid your little life is forfeit." He chuckled darkly, taking a step closer to the trio. "But before I end you, Kakashi, I have one thing to ask." He paused, letting the weight of his words seep. "How is my dear Anko? I've known you two have grown closer over the years." His golden eyes bored into Kakashi's soul, reading his thoughts.
Kakashi furrowed his eyes at Orochimaru and felt his heart skip a beat. He looked at the man before him with a fierce intensity.
"It's a shame, really. That she would choose to be with a man such as yourself" Orochimaru taunted, trying to provoke Kakashi. He could see his frustration and hate rising. "I guess I'll have to pay her a visit," he said with a wicked smile.
Kakashi violently clenched his fist, his nail breaking as blood trickled down his hand. He looked to his genin and saw fear and panic in their eyes. Their frightened sight and the way this bastard talked about Anko brought about an unprecedented anger. The fear he had was being replaced with rage. He would protect his family and his students… no matter the cost.
Kakashi lifted up his headband as his Sharingan whirled to life, it's three tomoe spinning. He widened his stance, his arm falling downward as electricity started to converge in his palm; the ground beneath torn apart from the violent and unruly currents. The Sharingan stared deep into Orochimaru, burning with a crimson glow.
Orochimaru raised an eyebrow, seemingly amused by Kakashi's bravado. "Oh, really? You're going to fight me? My, my, you have grown since our last battle" he sneered. "Hmph, at least this time you've got the guts to stand up and fight!" he said, releasing more of his bloodlust.
The wave of killing intent almost brought the Uchiha twins to their knees. It felt as if there were hands squeezing around their throats. They saw visions of themselves being killed.
Sasuke looked at this sensei and Orochimaru locked in their standoff. So this was what it feels like when two powerful shinobi are standing off. Their killing intent is off the charts. Can Kakashi-sensei win? Should I… Sasuke thought.
He didn't want to stand by and let his sensei fight alone, but he knew joining in would only slow Kakashi down. Additionally, if he summoned him it would make the situation worse. He looked over to his sister.
Kiyomi's legs were trembling, and her breathing was ragged and uncontrollably as she felt the killing intent. This pressure… This bloodlust it's enormous. I can't breathe, if I make one misstep I'll die. She began to sweat profusely as her body began to move on its own. It believed the only way to escape this intensity was to kill herself. She unconsciously pulled out a kunai and raised it to her neck.
"Kiyomi," Kakashi called out, his voice breaking Kiyomi out of her trance.
She looked in horror to see a kunai in her hands, inches from her throat. She went numb as the kunai fell to the ground with a metallic clang.
"Don't worry, I will protect you two. I refuse to let my comrades die!" Kakashi stated defiantly. "Pakkun, get them out here," he turned to his team. "Sasuke, I'm assigning you as Team Leader. It's up to you to complete the mission and protect your teammates."
Sasuke's eyes widened at his sensei's words. He clenched his fists in anger; he hated how weak he was. He thought he'd gotten stronger, but it still wasn't enough. Was Naruto, right? Could he simply not envision a stronger version of himself?
Shaking these thoughts off, he looked at his sensei and nodded. "Kiyomi, we need to leave."
Kiyomi tried to protest but the look in Sasuke's eye told her everything. She looked at Kakashi, with worry in her eyes, but her sensei gave her a comforting smile. With this, Kiyomi joined Pakkun and Sasuke as the three departed leaving behind Kakashi and Orochimaru in the field near the tower.
"Aww, you're going to make my heart melt." Orochimaru mocked with a sinister laugh. "This is pointless. Hmmm… you know what I'm feeling generous today. If you step aside, I'll let you live," he stated with a smile. "I'm giving you the chance to return to your family, unharmed."
Orochimaru did not fear fighting Kakashi, he just rather not at this moment. It would be more tiresome for them to fight. He had other business to attend to and wanted to speed this process along and get what he came for. He knew Kakashi was an intelligent and cunning man, who knew of his strength. Orochimaru concluded that this offer would be impossible for Kakashi to resist.
For a split second, Kakashi considered the possibility. The crackle of lightning ceased, but then, he felt the words of his former teammates flood into his brain. Those who abandon their comrades are worse than scum… Minato-sensei, Kushina-sensei, Rin, and Obito please… lend me your strength.
"No. I don't know what you want from those two, but I would rather die than allow that," he responded, his resolve solidified. "I am Kakashi Hatake, the Copycat Ninja, and I know more than 1000 jutsu! And now… I'm mad!" he reignited his Raikiri as it blazed with greater intensity.
Orochimaru's smile dropped as he looked upon Kakashi who brimmed with an unwavering spirit. He got into a fighting stance, readying himself for Kakashi's attack. "Well then, show me your jutsu!"
Kakashi charged forward, his Raikiri crackling with raw power. "Raiton: Raijū Tsuiga (Lightning Release: Lightning Hound)!" he shouted. The electricity took shape, forming a hound that surged forward at high speeds, its red eyes growling at Orochimaru.
Orochimaru met this advance with eerie calmness, effortlessly sidestepping the beast. In a blur of movement, he countered with a swift kick aimed at Kakashi's ribs, but the Copy Ninja dodged, flipping over the kick and landing a distance away.
Orochimaru heard the crackle of lightning as he turned to see the hound charging at him with more ferocity. He smiled, amused at Kakashi's attempt. "Fūton: Daitoppa (Wind Release: Great Breakthrough)!"
A powerful gust of wind was sent towards the hound, blowing it apart, as well as catching Kakashi in its path of destruction as well.
Kakashi ripped through the forest as the nearby trees were obliterated and ravaged. The sound of bones breaking could be heard as he flew through many bushes until slamming against a tree trunk.
Upon impact, a snake appeared from behind, coiling itself around Kakashi, immobilizing him. A whistle was heard through the air as two kunai flew, colliding with his shoulders, and impaling him onto the wood.
Orochimaru emerged to see if his aim had been true, discovering the pinned Kakashi. "Tsk, tsk. I expected more out of you." He widened his mouth; a regurgitated sword rose from the depths. He lunged forward to deliver the final blow.
The ground underneath erupted as Kakashi ascended, kunai in hand, in front of Orochimaru.
Orochimaru, expecting this, swiftly slashed him in twain. The severed body gasped for air, but soon dissolved into mud.
From above, Orochimaru heard a roar as he turned to see a dragon with glowing yellow eyes, barring down at him. "Doton: Deiryūshō (Earth Release: Mud Dragon Surge)!"
He used his sword to block the dragon's advance as it fell upon him, with great speed, as it propelled him through the grassy plains. The dragon then ascended to the treetops, sending him through branches and foliage.
Orochimaru laughed hysterically as the dragon continued to pressure him. "You're putting on quite a show!" He said, redirecting the path of the dragon. Flipping over the beast and tearing through it like butter.
Lighting crackled, as Orochimaru effortlessly sidestepped a deadly stealth attack. In a blur of movement, he countered with a swift kick aimed at Kakashi's ribs, but the Copy Ninja deftly dodged, retaliating with a kunai slash in which Orochimaru parried.
The sound of metal could be heard as their battle raged on throughout the submerged heavens. Sparks flew, the branches fell, the birds scattered in fear, and destruction was left in their wake.
Moving too fast for the average shinobi, striking with extreme precision and skill. This battle was truly a tumultuous clash.
The two shinobi emerged from the heavens in different conditions landing on tree branches a distance apart.
Orochimaru stood tall, proud and unscathed, he was starting to get bored as he glared at the pitiful man before him. Despite Kakashi's best efforts, he failed to land a single blow.
Across the gap, Kakashi breaths came in ragged gasps, as if he were sucking air through a straw. His legs trembled, threatening to give way beneath him. The hilt of his kunai was slick with sweat, and his vision blurred at the edges.
He'd lost his hitai-ate, his jōnin flak jacket, and parts of his blue long-sleeve were destroyed. He had a long cut across his torso, a result of being too slow. He touched the cut and felt the blood flow past his fingers.
"How's it going Kakashi?" Orochimaru mocked, "you don't seem to be doing well." He licked the blood from his sword, smiling wickedly at Copy Ninja.
Kakashi panted heavily, I'm particularly out of chakra… I thought I could buy them more time to get away. He examined his blood-stained hand. But this will be my final attack…, he thought.
Orochimaru readied himself, not out of fear, but out of instinct. Throughout his life he faced many strong shinobi but Kakashi was different. Those he faced and killed, died with fear itching across their body, but Kakashi had no such fear. The man before his very eyes brimmed with resilience and determination despite impending doom. Men staring down death in such a way were unpredictable and therefore extremely dangerous.
The wind howled as the two shinobi locked eyes; Kakashi's Sharingan swirling as Orochimaru slit eyes narrowed. The forest held its breath in anticipation as their feet grinded on top of the tree bark.
The air shattered with the sound of metal tearing through flesh, startling Kakashi as if a lightning bolt had struck him. A searing pain erupted in his chest, stealing his breath and freezing him in place. For a moment, he couldn't comprehend what had happened.
With a gasp, Kakashi looked down, he saw a gleaming sword sprouting from his chest. Blood welled around the wound, staining his clothes crimson.
A voice, dripping with malice, slithered into his ear like a serpent's hiss. "I've enjoyed our little game," it taunted, sending shivers down Kakashi's spine, "but I'm afraid playtime is over."
The figure in front of him seemed to warp and shift, dissolving into a writhing mass of snakes. Kakashi's mind reeled, struggling to process the betrayal unfolding before him.
"Any last words?" Orochimaru mocked, the metal of the sword twisting deeper into Kakashi's flesh with a sickening grind.
Blood trickled from Kakashi's lips, his breaths ragged and labored. The metallic taste filled his mouth, mingling with the stinging agony in his chest. With each cough, crimson droplets splattered against the ground, staining the tree branch beneath him.
Orochimaru savored Kakashi's suffering. "Oh? Would you mind speaking a little louder," he taunted, his voice dripping with contempt. "I'm having trouble hearing you."
"I-I-I… s-s-s-aid…" Kakashi managed to squeak out. He violently grabbed the sword sticking through him, his grip strong and true. "BUNSHIN DAIBAKUHA (Great Clone Explosion)!" he shouted.
For the first time, a flicker of uncertainty pierced Orochimaru's face. Instinctively, he recoiled, a surge of alarm coursing through his body. But before he could retreat, it was too late.
The clone's body expanded with explosive force, engulfing the surrounding area in a blinding flash of light. The shockwave rippled through the treetops, shaking the very foundations of the forest.
As the smoke cleared, Orochimaru found himself hurtling through the air, descending to the ground. "That was a good try," he mused, his voice tinged with a hint of begrudging respect.
However, his eyes widened in shock as the real Kakashi materialized in front, lightning coating his hand. I can't dodge, he's too close, he thought. However, the lightning vanished from Kakashi's hand.
"It looks like you're out of chakra," he mused. As soon as he hit the ground he would kill Kakashi. But something unexpected happened.
As Kakashi's hand cut through the air, space began to distort and bend. Orochimaru's eyes widened, What is this? he thought.
Kakashi's hand burst and crackled with black and red lightning as he plunged through Orochimaru's chest, puncturing his heart and exiting through the back.
Orochimaru's mouth burst open as blood sprayed over Kakashi as the two hurled to the ground, landing with a thunderous boom. They tumbled through the grass and dirt, rolling over each other, until Orochimaru laid on his back with Kakashi on top. His hand still lodged within his chest, crackling with red and black lighting.
Kakashi ripped his arm out of Orochimaru as he fell over on his back. He took deep and ragged breaths, feeling the fatigue and hurt on his body.
Two laid on the ground next to each as the sun peered through the foliage, shedding light on the devastation and destruction.
Orochimaru looked down to see the gaping hole in his chest. He gasped for air, but only blood came out. He hacked and spluttered, trying to clear his throat, but the blood kept flowing. He could hear the wet, gurgling sound of his own breathing, and he knew he was dying.
He couldn't believe it. How could he, one of the Sannin, be defeated by this mere copy ninja? He felt a surge of rage and tried to reach out and rip Kakashi's face off, but his fingers were weak and trembling. He opened his mouth to curse, but only blood came out.
Kakashi slowly arose, wiping away some of the dirt on his clothing. He looked down at Orochimaru, glaring down at the man before him. He could see the hate in his eyes as he stared furiously at Kakashi, but then his eyes softened.
"Y-y-ou baited me into that last attack," Orochimaru spoke, coughing up blood with each word. "You used your Sharingan to apply your remaining chakra within 0.000001 seconds of hitting me. It was a Kokusen (Black flash)."
Kakashi grabbed his left eye, feeling the throbbing pain intensify with each beat. He stumbled slightly, the exhaustion from using the Sharingan weighing heavily on his body. Thoughts of recuperation in Konoha flashed through his mind – he knew he'd be bedridden for at least a month upon his return. "Any last words…" Kakashi spoke as the leaves fell around him.
"I'll admit it… you are strong, Kakashi," Orochimaru's words came out slow and labored, each syllable heavy with effort. "For a non-Uchiha, you have mastered that eye to a superb degree. You are worthy of the title 'Kakashi of the Sharingan'... through all the battles I've had with lesser men, you're the only one who faced me without fear. Stand proud" he acknowledged, his tone almost congenial. "But…"
But then, without warning, a chilling interruption shattered the moment.
In an instant, Kakashi's eyes widened in shock as a katana burst through his chest, blood spraying across the ground. He staggered backward, his attempt to maintain balance futile against the sudden onslaught.
"This fight is over," Orochimaru's voice echoed from behind, cold and final.
/END OF CHAPTER/
This was by far the most difficult chapter to write (yet) as I had MANY ideas for how to take the story in an interesting direction but ultimately chose this one. If you are wondering where Kurama is, you'll have to wait. He will make an appearance 'soonish'. Please leave any suggestions or feedback. Until next time, take care.