Otsutsuki (Rebooted)

by greymatter1098

This is a reboot of my story Otsutsuki. This is an alternate universe story where Naruto is an Otsutsuki that is sent to Earth and found by Minato & taken him by him & Kushina. This universe variant of Asura will be Mito Uzumaki (Minato & Kushina's biological daughter) & Indra will be Sayuri Uchiha (Fugaku & Mikoto's daughter & Itachi's younger sister). Mostly NarutoxSayuri centric

12. The Curse Mark

Chapter 11: The Curse Mark

Naruto gently wrung out a damp cloth, his hands trembling slightly as he wiped the sweat from Sayuri's pale face. Her breathing was shallow and ragged, and her skin burned under his touch. Each time he soaked the cloth in a nearby stream, it dried almost instantly on her feverish skin, as if the heat radiating from her was devouring the water itself.

He clenched his teeth, frustration and guilt gnawing at him. "Damn it... If only I'd been faster back then." His thoughts spiraled as he glanced at Sayuri, her body motionless and vulnerable. He couldn't shake the image of Sakura's lifeless form, sealed away in a scroll on his belt. The weight of her loss pressed on him like a vice, a constant reminder of his failure to protect her—and now, the same guilt threatened to consume him as he looked at Sayuri.

Suddenly, Sayuri let out a weak groan, her head shifting slightly as if trying to escape the pain. Naruto's attention snapped back to her. He sighed, realizing the cloth had dried again, and dipped it back into the water. His fingers brushed her forehead as he placed the damp cloth over it, her pained whimpers cutting through the suffocating silence.

"Naruto," Ichiro's calm, commanding voice echoed in his mind. Naruto froze, momentarily startled.

"She's burning up," Naruto muttered aloud, his voice heavy with worry. "What the hell did that bastard Orochimaru do to her?"

Hikari's voice was soft but resolute. "It's not just physical exhaustion, Naruto. That mark on her neck—it's no ordinary seal. There's a sinister purpose behind it."

Naruto swallowed hard, the memory of Orochimaru's taunting smirk flashing through his mind. He gritted his teeth and gently lifted Sayuri's head, letting it rest against his shoulder as he brushed aside her hair to examine her neck. What he saw made his heart sink.

A black, three-tomoe mark stood out starkly against her pale skin, radiating an ominous energy that made his stomach churn. He could feel it pulsing, almost alive, like it was feeding on her very essence.

"That mark…" Naruto's voice shook. "What is it?"

Ichiro's tone turned grave. "It's a Cursed Seal, Naruto. A technique not unlike the Otsutsuki's Karma mark."

Naruto stiffened, the comparison sending a chill down his spine. "Karma mark?" he repeated, his mind flashing to Jigen and the excruciating battle they'd endured. "You mean… Orochimaru wants to use her as a vessel, like Isshiki tried to do with me?"

Hikari's sorrowful sigh filled the void of his mind. "Yes. The mark serves to corrupt the host, feeding off their chakra and eventually replacing it with the giver's chakra. It strengthens the body while eroding the mind, making them easier to control. The ultimate goal is to prepare the host to become a vessel."

Naruto's knuckles turned white as he clenched his fist. His eyes burned with fury, his Kessetsugan flaring to life. "That snake bastard…" His voice was a low growl. "He's trying to turn her into another puppet, just like Isshiki tried with me!"

Ichiro's voice cut through his rage, firm but calm. "Naruto, focus. If you lose yourself to anger, you won't be able to help her. Right now, the seal is dormant, but if it activates, it will cause her immense pain and potentially…" His voice faltered, but Naruto understood the implication.

Naruto looked down at Sayuri, her face contorted in unconscious agony. The idea of her enduring the same torment he had felt when Isshiki's Karma began taking over filled him with dread. "There has to be a way to get rid of it," he said, desperation creeping into his voice. "Ichiro, Hikari—tell me there's something I can do!"

Hikari hesitated. "Removing the seal is possible, but it's dangerous. The seal is embedded deeply into her chakra network, intertwining with her very life force. To extract it would require immense precision and power. Even then, the process could…" She trailed off, unable to finish.

"Could kill her," Ichiro finished bluntly. "Naruto, this isn't a decision to be made lightly. Even with your strength and training, this is a delicate procedure. A single mistake could cost her life."

Naruto's heart sank, the weight of their words pressing down on him. He looked at Sayuri again, her usually fierce expression replaced by one of vulnerability. "There has to be another way," he said, his voice trembling. "I can't just sit here and do nothing!"

Ichiro's voice softened, but his tone remained resolute. "For now, the best course of action is to contain it. You need to find someone that can use a temporary seal to suppress its effects, but it won't last forever. She will need to confront this mark eventually—just as you had to confront the truth about the Karma."

Hikari interjected gently. "Naruto, you're not alone in this. You've overcome impossible odds before, and you'll do it again. For now, focus on keeping her safe. Trust that she'll find the strength to fight this when the time comes."

Naruto closed his eyes, his mind racing. He felt torn between his frustration at his own limitations and his desperate need to protect Sayuri. Finally, he took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. "Alright," he said quietly, his gaze hardening as he looked at Sayuri. "I won't let her go through this alone," he said firmly. "Whatever it takes, I'll protect her."

He sat beside her, his resolve unshaken despite the fear and uncertainty gnawing at him. The memories of Sakura's death still haunted him, and the thought of losing Sayuri was unbearable. But as long as he had the strength to fight, he wouldn't let that happen. "Danzo would throw a fit if he saw me now" he chuckled humourlessly.

"Normally, I'd suggest we forget about this exam and take Sayuri straight to the Hokage," Naruto said, his voice heavy with frustration as he glanced at her unconscious form. "But knowing her, she'd never forgive us for quitting. Not to mention, we don't have the luxury to fail here." He paused, his expression hardening. "I'll stay here and take care of her, but I'm not leaving her unprotected to search for a scroll. I'll send a Shadow Clone to handle it."

Naruto formed the hand seal, and with a puff of smoke, a clone materialized beside him, its determined expression mirroring his own. "Find a team with an Earth Scroll and get it," he ordered the clone. "Avoid fights if you can, but don't let them know where we are. And whatever happens, don't bring anyone back here unless you're sure it's safe."

The clone nodded sharply and disappeared into the forest in a blur of motion, leaving the real Naruto to turn his attention back to Sayuri. "And one more thing," he muttered to himself, his gaze softening as he adjusted the cloth on her forehead, "we're not telling her about that cursed seal. Not until we've gotten her to the Hokage and figured out a way to deal with it."

---

Sayuri's Mindscape

Sayuri awoke with a jolt, her breath hitching as she scanned her surroundings. She stood in the dimly lit halls of her childhood home, the Uchiha compound. The air was heavy, suffused with an eerie stillness that pressed down on her chest. Her stomach turned as she looked down and saw fresh blood pooling on the floor. Her heart dropped. That night. She was reliving it again.

Her body trembled as the sound of soft crying reached her ears. Slowly, she turned and saw a small, fragile figure: a younger version of herself, no older than seven, kneeling on the floor. The child wiped her teary eyes with the sleeve of her small kimono, her voice choked with sobs.

"Why? Why did they all have to die? Mother, Father, everyone in the clan… why?" the younger Sayuri whimpered, her voice filled with raw pain.

Sayuri felt her throat tighten as she dropped to her knees, reaching out a tentative hand to comfort her younger self. Her fingers trembled, hovering just inches away from the girl's small frame. But just as she was about to touch her, the younger Sayuri paused, lowering her hands from her face.

Sayuri gasped. The child was no longer the innocent, grieving girl she remembered. The younger Sayuri began to shift, her small frame elongating and her features maturing until she mirrored Sayuri's current self. The transition was seamless, yet horrifying, as the child became a reflection of Sayuri now, tears streaming down her face, her body trembling with grief.

"Sakura…" the now-older Sayuri whispered, her voice filled with agony. Her hands clutched at her chest as though trying to hold her heart together. "Why did it have to be her? Why did she die?"

Sayuri stared in shock at the vision of herself, her pain mirrored so clearly in the weeping figure before her. Her hand twitched, wanting to reach out, to do something to ease this unbearable grief. But then, something changed. The grieving Sayuri straightened, her sobs fading into silence. Slowly, she raised her face, revealing an unsettlingly dark smile, her crimson eyes gleaming with a malicious light.

Sayuri recoiled as black, flame-like markings began to creep across the other her's face, spreading like wildfire. The twisted reflection's lips curled further into a deranged grin as she stood, her voice low and venomous. "If only I had more power. Power enough to kill Itachi… to protect Sakura… to destroy anything and anyone who gets in my way."

The scene around her shifted abruptly, as though someone had ripped the fabric of reality. Sayuri found herself in the blood-soaked alley of the Uchiha compound, standing over the lifeless body of Itachi Uchiha. His blank, unseeing eyes stared into the void as blood pooled beneath him, painting the ground in dark crimson.

Sayuri looked down at her hands, her breath hitching. They were drenched in blood—his blood. Itachi's. She had finally done it. She had achieved the goal she had sworn her life to. But something was wrong.

The same black markings now covered her hands, her arms, her entire body. And the power she felt—it was intoxicating. Her strength far surpassed anything she had ever dreamed of, dwarfing even her brother's genius. This… this was everything she had wanted.

A small, unsettling chuckle escaped her lips, unbidden and uncontrollable. It grew louder, darker, until it transformed into a maniacal laugh that echoed through the empty compound. "Hahahahaha! Hahahahahahahahaha!" she cackled, the sound dripping with malice and unhinged glee.

Her eyes gleamed with a sick satisfaction as she stared down at Itachi's corpse. Blood dripped from her hands, her body thrumming with unrestrained power. She felt invincible, untouchable.

In the deepest recesses of Sayuri's mind, a malevolent presence stirred. The parasite that had only recently embedded itself within her observed with glee, its sinister influence spreading through her psyche.

"Oh, you show such promise, my dear little Sayuri," the voice hissed, its tone slithering like a snake's. The markings on her body pulsed as the presence dug deeper, rooting itself in her very soul. "Power. Hatred. Ambition. You will be my greatest masterpiece."

Sayuri's laughter echoed louder, her bloodied hands trembling with exhilaration. She felt the presence in the back of her mind but made no effort to resist it. The power it offered was too great, too alluring.

The parasite chuckled darkly, satisfied as it burrowed further into her consciousness. Its influence grew stronger with every passing moment, feeding on her pain, her anger, her desperate desire for power. It whispered promises of strength, of vengeance, of freedom from all weakness.

Sayuri, lost in the haze of her twisted vision, didn't notice how far the parasite had sunk its claws into her mind. And in that moment, the girl she once was—the one who grieved for her parents, her clan, her friend—was left teetering on the edge of a precipice, staring into an abyss that threatened to consume her whole.

---

Real World

The makeshift hideout was dim, quiet except for Sayuri's soft, labored breathing as she lay unconscious. Naruto's heightened senses flared suddenly, pulling him from his thoughts. Three presences. Close. Too close. His hand instinctively went to the Raijin no Ken—a weapon he hadn't yet unsealed. For now, he stilled himself, listening.

Footsteps. They were deliberate, purposeful. Naruto eased himself into a defensive position near Sayuri, his expression grim as he waited.

Moments later, the trio stepped into the clearing, their appearances matching their chakra signatures. Dosu, the leader, stepped forward, his bandaged visage tilting slightly as if to assess the situation. Behind him, Zaku sneered, his modified arms resting casually by his sides, while Kin tossed her hair back with an air of superiority, twirling a senbon between her fingers.

"You've been cornered, Uzumaki," Dosu stated, his voice distorted by his sound amplifier. "Hand over the Uchiha, and we might let you walk away."

Naruto's eyes narrowed, his grip tightening slightly. "Sayuri's not going anywhere with you," he said, his tone cold. "If you're looking for a fight, you've found one."

Zaku laughed harshly. "Tough words for someone who's about to be shredded!"

Kin rolled her eyes. "Can we just finish this already? I hate dragging things out."

Naruto exhaled slowly, his Kyuubi-enhanced sight sharpening. He could see the subtle shifts in their stances, the way Dosu's fingers twitched near his arm amplifier, the faint chakra buildup in Zaku's hands, and the predatory gleam in Kin's eyes as she evaluated her target.

"Last chance," Dosu said, raising his arm. "Hand her over, or we take her by force."

Naruto smirked, releasing the Raijin no Ken from its seal. The blade shimmered into existence, humming faintly with electricity. His chakra chains unfurled behind him like serpents, their golden glow illuminating the dark clearing.

"Come and try," he challenged.

Dosu moved first, his speed impressive but not beyond Naruto's enhanced perception. Naruto's senses, honed from years of rigorous training and sharpened further by his Otsutsuki heritage, caught every subtle shift in Dosu's movements. The forest seemed to hold its breath as the Sound ninja closed the distance, his bandaged arm raised, the metallic device gleaming ominously.

He's aiming for a quick strike, Naruto thought, noting the way Dosu's arm angled toward him. That arm of his—it must be his primary weapon. Better keep my distance until I figure out what it does.

Naruto tightened his grip on the Raijin no Ken, the legendary blade humming softly with stored lightning chakra. He sidestepped Dosu's initial attack, feeling a slight disturbance in the air as a sound wave sliced past him, obliterating a tree trunk behind him.

Sound-based attacks, Naruto realized, his eyes narrowing. He can manipulate sound waves to cause physical damage. If I get hit directly, it won't be pretty.

Zaku wasted no time joining the fray. "Think you can dodge forever?" he sneered, raising his modified arms. The air around his palms distorted, and Naruto's instincts screamed a warning.

"Take this!" Zaku shouted, unleashing a powerful blast of compressed air and sound. The force tore through the forest, leaves and branches scattering like shrapnel.

Naruto leaped into the air, flipping gracefully as the blast decimated the spot where he'd stood moments before. These guys don't mess around, he acknowledged, landing lightly on a tree branch. But neither do I.

From his elevated position, Naruto caught sight of Kin lurking at the edge of the clearing, her fingers deftly preparing senbon needles attached to nearly invisible threads. He knew better than to underestimate any opponent.

Three against one, he mused. They think they have the advantage. Time to even the odds.

With a swift motion, he formed a series of hand seals. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" he called out, and two identical copies of himself appeared in puffs of smoke beside him.

"Get him!" Dosu commanded, frustration evident in his distorted voice. The trio coordinated their attack, Dosu charging head-on while Zaku and Kin flanked from the sides.

Naruto's clones sprang into action. One clone met Dosu's charge, engaging him in close combat. The other clone darted toward Kin, weaving through the underbrush to avoid her projectiles. The real Naruto focused on Zaku, who was already preparing another blast.

"You're mine!" Zaku yelled, firing twin jets of air from his palms. The sheer force uprooted small trees and sent rocks tumbling.

Naruto dashed forward, chakra flooding his legs to enhance his speed. He slid under the blast, feeling the shockwave ruffle his hair as it passed overhead. Closing the gap between them, he swung the Raijin no Ken in a wide arc.

Zaku barely had time to react. He stumbled back, crossing his arms defensively. The blade's electric edge grazed his modified arms, sparks flying as metal met chakra-infused steel.

"Argh!" Zaku grimaced, feeling the jolt run up his arms. "You little—"

Before he could finish, Naruto spun on his heel, delivering a swift kick to Zaku's midsection. The Sound ninja was propelled backward, crashing into a thicket.

One down, at least for a moment, Naruto noted, turning his attention to the others.

Meanwhile, the clone facing Dosu was holding its own, but just barely. Dosu's sound attacks were tricky—each punch sent out invisible shockwaves that distorted the air and wreaked havoc on the senses.

The clone feigned left, dodging another strike. Gotta find a way to neutralize that arm of his, it thought. But how?

Dosu smirked beneath his bandages. "Your clones are just as foolish as you are," he taunted. He slammed his palm into the ground. "Sound Release: Resonating Echo Drill!"

A pulse emanated from his hand, the ground vibrating violently. The clone stumbled, disoriented as the frequencies disrupted its chakra flow.

Dosu seized the opportunity, lunging forward. But before he could land a finishing blow, the clone erupted in a cloud of smoke, leaving behind a set of exploding tags.

"What—!" Dosu managed before the tags detonated, engulfing him in a fiery blast.

On the other side of the clearing, the second clone was maneuvering through a maze of nearly invisible wires. Kin's senbon needles whizzed past, some narrowly missing, others grazing the clone's arms and legs.

"You're trapped," Kin said coolly, tugging on the threads. The wires tightened, forming a web intended to ensnare the clone.

The clone smirked. "Am I?" It formed a single hand seal. "Release!"

In an instant, the clone dispelled itself, leaving Kin blinking in surprise. "What?"

From above, the real Naruto descended, having used the distraction to position himself. "Gotcha!" he declared, swinging the Raijin no Ken downward.

Kin reacted swiftly, raising her kunai to block. The force of Naruto's strike knocked her weapon aside, the electric blade slicing through her wires and rendering her techniques useless.

She leaped back, but not before Naruto's foot connected with her shoulder, sending her sprawling. She rolled to her feet, clutching her arm.

"You're better than I expected," she admitted through gritted teeth.

"Likewise," Naruto replied, his expression unreadable. But I can't drag this out. Sayuri needs me.

The smoke cleared where Dosu had been caught in the explosion. Naruto glanced over to see the Sound ninja kneeling, his clothes singed but otherwise unharmed.

He used his sound waves to cushion the blast, Naruto realized. Clever.

Dosu stood slowly, his gaze murderous. "You'll pay for that," he rasped.

Zaku rejoined his teammates, his eyes filled with rage. "I'm gonna blow you to pieces!"

Kin regrouped, the three forming a tight formation.

Naruto assessed the situation. They're persistent, I'll give them that. But if they want to fight seriously, then so will I.

He sheathed the Raijin no Ken, freeing his hands for ninjutsu. Forming a series of rapid hand seals, he focused his chakra.

"Wind Style: Gale Palm!" he shouted, thrusting his palms forward. A powerful gust surged toward the trio, kicking up debris and forcing them to brace themselves.

Zaku countered instinctively. "Too bad for you, wind is my specialty!" He unleashed his own air blasts, the opposing forces clashing violently.

But Naruto had anticipated this. Using the cover of the swirling winds, he dashed to the side, coming at them from an unexpected angle.

"Lightning Style: Thunderclap Arrow!" He directed a concentrated bolt of lightning toward Dosu.

Dosu's eyes widened as the lightning struck his metallic arm, the conductive material amplifying the shock. He convulsed, muscles seizing as electricity coursed through him.

"Dosu!" Kin cried out.

Zaku snarled, turning his full fury on Naruto. "You're dead!"

He unleashed a barrage of air bullets, the high-speed projectiles tearing through the air. Naruto weaved between them, but one clipped his shoulder, the force spinning him around.

That was close, he thought, wincing at the sting. I can't let him keep the pressure on.

Naruto formed more hand seals. "Earth Style: Mud Wall!" A solid barrier rose from the ground, absorbing the next wave of attacks.

Taking a deep breath, Naruto decided it was time to end this. He channeled chakra into his hands, the air around him crackling.

"Let's see how you handle this," he muttered.

Emerging from behind the mud wall, Naruto sprinted toward Zaku. The Sound ninja prepared to fire again, but Naruto was faster.

"Wind Style: Rasengan!" Naruto yelled, his palm glowing with a swirling sphere of wind chakra.

"Impossible!" Zaku gasped, trying to bring his arms up. But before he could react, Naruto was upon him.

The Rasengan connected with Zaku's abdomen, the wind chakra drilling into him and launching him backward. He crashed through several trees before skidding to a halt, unconscious.

Kin hesitated, fear flickering in her eyes. Dosu, still recovering from the lightning strike, struggled to stand.

Naruto fixed them with a steely gaze. "It's over," he stated flatly. "You won't lay a finger on Sayuri."

Kin weighed her options. Her mission was clear, but facing an opponent like this alone was suicide.

Dosu coughed, his voice strained. "We... can't return empty-handed," he rasped.

Naruto sighed inwardly. They're not going to give up. But I can't waste any more time.

He formed another set of hand seals, his chakra flaring visibly. "Fire Style: Dragon Flame Bomb!"

A torrent of fire erupted from his mouth, taking the shape of a roaring dragon. The flames illuminated the forest, casting long shadows as they raced toward the remaining Sound ninja.

Kin and Dosu leaped apart to avoid the attack, but the dragon split mid-air, each head homing in on them individually.

Kin screamed as the flames engulfed her position, the heat searing. Dosu tried to deflect the flames with a sound blast, but his damaged arm failed him. The fire consumed him, and both were thrown back by the force of the explosion.

When the smoke cleared, both Sound ninja lay on the ground, defeated but alive. Naruto had controlled the intensity to avoid fatal injuries.

He approached them cautiously. Dosu looked up at him, one eye visible through his bandages.

"Why... spare us?" Dosu managed to ask.

Naruto met his gaze. "I'm not interested in killing you," he said simply. "But if you come after my friends again, I won't hold back."

Dosu closed his eye, accepting defeat. "Our mission... was doomed from the start."

"No shit Sherlock." The blonde spat mockingly.

As Dosu carried his injured teammates away, their figures disappearing into the shadows of the forest, Naruto exhaled, momentarily relieved the immediate threat was gone. But the reprieve was short-lived.

The air shifted, heavy with malice and a suffocating pressure that made even the resilient Naruto pause. He stiffened, his enhanced senses alerting him to the foul chakra erupting nearby.

"What now?" Naruto muttered bitterly, his grip tightening on the Raijin no Ken. Can I not catch a break?

His question was answered as Sayuri, still unconscious, stirred faintly. Then, from behind him, he felt it—the source.

Turning slowly, Naruto's eyes widened as he saw Sayuri begin to rise unsteadily to her feet. Her head hung low, and a dark, flame-like tattoo spread across her body, its sinister pattern radiating a chakra so vile it made his skin crawl.

When she finally looked up, her Sharingan spun wildly, red eyes gleaming with malevolence. She scanned her surroundings briefly before her gaze locked on Naruto, her expression twisting into something unfamiliar and dangerous.

Sayuri's lips curled into a dark grin, her voice low and chilling. "Naruto…"

Naruto gritted his teeth, feeling the oppressive weight of her chakra pressing down on him. "Sayuri… What the hell did Orochimaru do to you?"

Her grin widened, the curse mark flaring brighter. This wasn't the Sayuri he knew.

---

The dense forest canopy muted the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls, casting an eerie calm over Team Kurenai's makeshift camp. Kiba Inuzuka leaned back against a tree trunk, his arms crossed and his ever-faithful companion Akamaru perched on his lap. The normally rowdy pair were uncharacteristically quiet, their ears twitching every so often toward the horizon where a distant explosion had rocked the forest minutes earlier.

"That was no ordinary battle," Shino Aburame said evenly, breaking the silence. His voice carried an edge of unease, his usually concealed eyes fixed in the direction of the disturbance. "The chakra that flared moments before the explosion was… overwhelming."

Kiba scoffed, though his usual bravado felt forced. "Yeah, no kidding. Felt like the entire forest shook. Whoever's fighting over there isn't messing around."

Hinata Hyuga sat nearby, her hands clasped tightly in her lap as she stared at the ground, her pale lavender eyes clouded with worry. "Do you… do you think it could be Naruto-kun?" she asked hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Kiba's ears twitched, and he gave her a sidelong glance. "Naruto? Why would he be involved in something that crazy? I mean, yeah, the guy's a loudmouth, but he's not exactly the type to blow up half the forest."

Hinata shook her head, her grip tightening. "Naruto-kun… He's strong. But that chakra… It was so… angry. I've never felt anything like it."

Shino adjusted his glasses, his tone measured. "The possibility cannot be dismissed. Naruto has a tendency to attract trouble. If he was involved in whatever that was, we should be prepared for the consequences."

Kiba frowned, scratching Akamaru behind the ears. "I'm telling you, there's no way. That kind of power isn't something Naruto has… right?"

Hinata glanced up, her cheeks tinged with faint color. "He's… he's stronger than he seems. And he always finds a way to protect the people he cares about."

Kiba raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. Instead, he glanced toward the horizon again, his expression grim. "Well, whoever it is, I hope they're okay. That kind of fight isn't normal, even for this place."

Shino nodded slowly. "We should remain vigilant. If the intensity of that battle attracted attention, we could find ourselves in danger."

Hinata bit her lip, her heart sinking at the thought of Naruto being caught up in something so perilous. She wanted to activate her Byakugan, to search for him, but the distance was too great. "Naruto-kun," she whispered, her voice trembling with worry. "Please be safe."

The trio fell into a contemplative silence, the distant echoes of the explosion still lingering in their minds. Unbeknownst to them, the forces at play in the forest were far greater than any of them could imagine.

---

Naruto stirred from his position on the ground, his senses still dulled by the aftermath of his earlier battle with the Sound Team. The forest around him seemed eerily quiet, the tension thick enough to strangle. His body ached, but his enhanced senses flared to life as a sinister chakra rolled through the clearing, suffocating the air with its intensity. His head snapped toward the source, his cerulean eyes narrowing as they landed on Sayuri.

She was awake, but something was wrong—terribly wrong.

Dark, flame-like markings crawled across her pale skin, pulsating with an unnatural, malevolent energy. Her Sharingan spun wildly in her crimson eyes, their usual sharp clarity replaced by something feral, something... unhinged. The chakra pouring off her felt warped, like a grotesque mockery of natural energy. Naruto had felt oppressive power before—the Nine-Tails' chakra was a constant reminder of that—but this? This felt entirely different. It was malevolent and intoxicating, a potent mixture designed to consume its wielder.

Sayuri stood slowly, her movements deliberate and almost predatory. Her expression was one of euphoria as her hands flexed, testing the strength coursing through her veins. She barely acknowledged Naruto's presence, her gaze focused inward, as if marveling at her newfound power. When she finally spoke, her voice was low and laced with a chilling satisfaction.

"So this is the power he promised," she muttered, her lips curling into a smile that made Naruto's stomach churn. "It feels… incredible. I could destroy this entire forest without breaking a sweat."

Naruto pushed himself to his feet, his eyes never leaving her. "Sayuri," he called cautiously, his voice steady but firm. "Whatever Orochimaru did to you, you need to fight it. This isn't you."

Her gaze snapped to him, the grin widening as she took a step closer. "Not me?" she echoed, a dark laugh escaping her lips. "Maybe this is the real me, Naruto. Maybe this is who I've always been meant to be."

Naruto's fists clenched at his sides. "You don't believe that," he said firmly, taking a step forward. "This power… it's poison, Sayuri. It's not going to help you—it's going to destroy you."

She tilted her head, her Sharingan blazing as she regarded him with an unsettling mix of curiosity and disdain. "You don't understand, Naruto," she said, her voice dripping with condescension. "For so long, I've been weak. Helpless. But now?" She extended her hand, letting the dark chakra swirl around her fingers. "Now I can make him pay. I can make Itachi pay for everything he's done."

Naruto's heart twisted at the mention of her brother. He knew how deeply that wound cut, how much Sayuri's life had been shaped by her desire for vengeance. But this—this wasn't the way. "This isn't power, Sayuri," he said, his voice rising. "This is Orochimaru's leash! He's using you!"

Her eyes darkened, and in a blur of motion, she closed the distance between them, her hand lashing out. Naruto barely managed to dodge, the wind from her strike whipping past his face. Her strength had increased exponentially; the sheer force of her missed blow cracked the earth beneath them.

"Don't you dare lecture me!" she snarled, her voice venomous. "You have no idea what I've been through! What I've lost!"

Naruto slid back, his feet digging into the ground to steady himself. "I know more than you think," he replied, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through him. "But this isn't about me, Sayuri. This is about you. And I'm not going to let you throw your life away for some cursed power!"

Sayuri's laugh was hollow and biting. "Throw my life away?" she repeated mockingly. "You really don't get it, do you, Naruto? My life was already ruined the day he slaughtered our clan. This power is the only thing that matters now."

She lunged at him again, her movements a blur of speed and precision. Naruto ducked under her first strike, sidestepping the next, but her relentless assault kept him on the defensive. Each blow was faster and stronger than the last, and the ground around them bore the brunt of her attacks, shattering under the force of her chakra-enhanced strikes.

Naruto gritted his teeth, his mind racing. He couldn't risk hurting her, but she wasn't giving him much of a choice. "Sayuri!" he shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Snap out of it! This isn't you!"

She didn't respond, her Sharingan glowing as she aimed a vicious kick at his midsection. Naruto blocked it with his forearm, the impact sending a shockwave through his body. Before he could recover, she spun around, her fist connecting with his jaw and sending him skidding across the ground.

He groaned, wiping blood from his lip as he pushed himself up. "Fine," he muttered to himself. "If you're not going to stop, then I'll just have to stop you."

He channeled his chakra, golden chains bursting forth from his back and snaking toward Sayuri. They moved with precision, wrapping around her arms and legs in an attempt to restrain her. She struggled against them, the dark markings on her skin flaring brighter as she poured more of her tainted chakra into breaking free.

"You think this can hold me?" she spat, her voice dripping with contempt. With a burst of raw power, she shattered the chains, the backlash forcing Naruto to stumble. "You'll have to do better than that, Naruto."

Her grin widened as she darted toward him again, her movements almost animalistic in their ferocity. Naruto braced himself, meeting her strikes with his own. Their blows collided, the force of their clash shaking the ground beneath them. Sayuri's attacks were wild but devastating, each one meant to incapacitate—or worse.

Naruto's mind raced as he dodged and countered, searching for a way to end the fight without hurting her. "You're stronger than this, Sayuri," he said, his voice strained as he blocked another strike. "You don't need this power to prove yourself!"

"Shut up!" she screamed, her voice raw with emotion. "You don't know anything about me!"

Her Sharingan flared, and Naruto barely had time to react as she unleashed a blast of dark chakra at point-blank range. He crossed his arms in front of him, the force of the attack sending him flying into a nearby tree. The impact knocked the wind out of him, but he pushed himself up, his resolve unshaken.

"Maybe I don't know everything about you," he admitted, his voice softer now. "But I do know this: you're my friend. And I'm not going to let you lose yourself to this curse."

Sayuri hesitated for a fraction of a second, her crimson eyes flickering with something unspoken. But then the dark markings on her skin flared again, and she lunged at him with renewed fury. Naruto met her charge head-on, his determination unwavering.

This wasn't just a fight for survival—it was a fight for her soul. And Naruto wasn't about to give up.

Naruto stood his ground, his breathing heavy but his gaze unyielding. Sayuri's power surged around her, the dark flame-like markings spreading across her skin like wildfire. Her Sharingan spun wildly, her movements becoming more erratic, more savage, as if the curse mark's power was eroding her control. She launched forward, her speed blurring her form into an afterimage.

Naruto raised his arms to block, barely catching the incoming blow. The sheer force of it reverberated through his body, sending him sliding back. His boots dug into the dirt as he struggled to maintain his footing. Sayuri didn't let up, her relentless onslaught giving him no room to recover. Her fist connected with his ribs, a sharp crack echoing in the clearing as pain shot through him.

"Sayuri!" Naruto grunted, dodging her follow-up strike by a hair's breadth. "You need to stop this!"

Her only response was a chilling laugh, her voice dripping with malice. "Stop? Why would I stop now? This power… it's exhilarating!" She aimed a high kick at his head, forcing Naruto to duck before she spun around, delivering a devastating elbow to his shoulder.

The impact nearly buckled him, but he forced himself to stay upright. He could see the glint of sadistic delight in her eyes, the curse mark's influence warping her once-determined focus into something far more dangerous.

Another strike came, and another. Naruto barely had time to react, his body moving on instinct to parry and evade. Sayuri's attacks were wild but precise, each one designed to inflict maximum damage. A chakra-enhanced punch connected with his gut, and Naruto doubled over, blood spurting from his mouth as he staggered back.

She's not holding back. She's completely lost herself to that damn mark, he thought, gritting his teeth as he wiped the blood from his lips. He straightened up, his body aching from the relentless barrage. But I can't fight her seriously. If I do… I might lose her for good.

Sayuri's grin widened as she saw his hesitation, taking it as weakness. She closed the distance again, her fists flying with brutal precision. Naruto raised his arms in a guard, but her blows broke through, each strike sending shockwaves through his body. She grabbed him by the collar and slammed him into the ground with enough force to crater the earth beneath them.

Naruto coughed, his vision blurring as he tried to push himself up. But Sayuri was already on him, her foot crashing down on his chest and pinning him in place. "Is this all you've got, Naruto?" she taunted, her voice dripping with venom. "The great Naruto Uzumaki, protector of the weak? Pathetic."

Her heel dug into his ribs, and Naruto winced as he felt another crack. His breathing came in ragged gasps, but he refused to look away. "I… won't… fight you," he managed to say, his voice strained but resolute.

Sayuri's expression darkened, her Sharingan glowing menacingly. "Then you'll die." She pulled him to his feet with one hand, her other fist crashing into his jaw with enough force to send him flying into a nearby tree. The trunk splintered on impact, and Naruto slumped to the ground, his body screaming in protest.

Despite the pain, he forced himself to rise. His healing factor was already kicking in, mending the fractures in his ribs and the gash on his forehead. He could feel the Kyuubi's chakra stirring within him, its raw power offering him an escape from this beating. But he shoved it down. No. I'm not using that. Not against her.

Sayuri's grin turned feral as she approached him, her chakra flaring with each step. "Still standing? You're tougher than you look, but even you have limits."

She darted forward, her hand glowing with dark energy as she aimed it at his chest. Naruto didn't move. He didn't even try to block. The blow connected, and he felt the air rush from his lungs as he was sent sprawling across the clearing. His body skidded to a halt, dirt and debris clinging to his clothes as he lay motionless for a moment.

I deserve this, he thought, his mind flashing to Sakura's lifeless body. I couldn't save her. I let her die. And now… now I'm losing Sayuri too. He pushed himself up on trembling arms, his vision swimming as he locked eyes with her. But I won't fight her. I won't hurt her. If taking this beating is what it takes to bring her back… so be it.

Sayuri's eyes narrowed as she approached him again, her movements predatory. She grabbed him by the collar, lifting him off the ground with ease. "What's the matter, Naruto?" she sneered. "Too scared to fight back?"

Her fist collided with his face, snapping his head to the side. Blood dripped from his mouth, but he didn't react. Another punch followed, then another, each one more brutal than the last. Sayuri's laughter echoed in the clearing as she unleashed her fury, her fists raining down on him like a storm.

Naruto's body was battered and bruised, his face swollen and bloodied. But he refused to raise a hand against her. His arms hung limp at his sides, his legs barely supporting him as he stood there, enduring her rage. She'll burn herself out eventually, he thought, his jaw tightening as another blow connected. And when she does, I'll be here to pick up the pieces.

"Fight me!" Sayuri screamed, her voice cracking with frustration. She slammed him into the ground again, the impact sending shockwaves through the earth. "Fight back, damn it!"

Naruto coughed, his vision darkening as he looked up at her. "I… won't," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're my teammate… my friend. I'll never fight you."

Her fists trembled as she raised them, her expression twisting into one of fury and confusion. "You're an idiot," she spat, her voice breaking. She brought her fists down again, but this time they didn't connect. They hovered above him, shaking as the dark markings on her skin began to recede.

Naruto's body ached, his muscles screaming in protest as he forced himself to stand. His vision was blurred, his breath coming in shallow gasps, but he remained upright, his legs unyielding despite the punishment. He stared at Sayuri, her body still radiating the ominous, dark chakra of the curse mark. The markings on her skin had begun to pulse, fading and returning as if caught in a war between her will and the mark's influence.

"You're still in there," Naruto muttered to himself, his voice hoarse but steady. "I know you are, Sayuri. I won't stop until you take back control."

Sayuri's eyes flickered, her Sharingan glowing with an intense, almost feral light. Her lips curled into a snarl, and in a flash, she was upon him again. Her fists came down in a relentless barrage, each strike landing with bone-jarring force. Naruto gritted his teeth, his body absorbing each blow as he stood his ground.

"Why won't you fight back?!" she roared, her voice raw with frustration and anger. She grabbed him by the collar and hurled him into the air, leaping after him with a chakra-enhanced kick that sent him crashing into the ground below.

The earth cracked and splintered beneath Naruto as he landed, but he pushed himself up almost immediately, his hands trembling but resolute. He spat blood onto the ground and met her gaze with unwavering determination. "Because I refuse to hurt you," he said simply.

Sayuri's rage only grew at his defiance. She clenched her fists, the dark energy swirling around her intensifying. "You're pathetic!" she screamed, her voice echoing through the clearing. "Always holding back, always protecting people who don't deserve it! You can't save everyone, Naruto!"

"I know," he admitted, his voice calm despite the situation. "I couldn't save Sakura. I couldn't save… so many people. But I'll be damned if I let you destroy yourself."

Her Sharingan spun wildly as she launched another attack, her movements fueled by the curse mark's sinister power. Naruto dodged and blocked where he could, but her strikes were relentless, each one landing with a ferocity that made his bones creak under the pressure. Despite his regenerative abilities, the pain was real, a constant reminder of the damage he was taking.

But Naruto didn't retaliate. He didn't even try.

As her punches and kicks rained down, Naruto's thoughts remained steady. She's hurting. She's angry, scared, and confused. This isn't her. This is that damn mark twisting her mind, feeding her hatred. Another blow struck his ribs, and he stumbled but stayed upright. If I can just endure it, if I can show her I'm not giving up on her, maybe she'll find her way back.

Sayuri's attacks grew more brutal, her strikes aimed to maim rather than subdue. She slashed at him with a kunai, the blade tearing through his shirt and drawing blood. Yet Naruto remained steadfast, his eyes never leaving hers. "I'm not going anywhere," he said through gritted teeth, his voice firm despite the pain.

"Shut up!" she screamed, her voice cracking as she drove her fist into his stomach. He doubled over, gasping for air, but he didn't fall. He looked up at her, his eyes blazing with a mixture of pain and determination.

"You're stronger than this," he said, his voice low but resolute. "You don't need that mark. You don't need its power."

Sayuri froze for a fraction of a second, her expression flickering with something unrecognizable—doubt, perhaps. But the curse mark's influence quickly reasserted itself, and she snarled, raising her fist to strike again.

This time, Naruto didn't even flinch. He stood tall, his arms at his sides, and let the blow land squarely on his face. His head snapped to the side, blood spraying from his mouth, but he stayed rooted in place. "If this is what it takes," he said, spitting blood onto the ground, "then I'll take it. I'll take all of it."

Sayuri hesitated again, her fist trembling as she prepared to strike once more. The markings on her skin flickered, as though her body was struggling to maintain the curse mark's power. Her breathing grew heavier, her movements slower, but her rage hadn't yet subsided.

"You're so stubborn," she growled, her voice laced with frustration. "You think you can fix everything by taking the pain? You think that's enough?"

"It's not about fixing everything," Naruto replied, his voice soft but unwavering. "It's about not giving up. Not on you, not on us. No matter how hard it gets."

Sayuri's next punch came slower, her strength waning as the dark chakra around her began to recede. The flame-like markings on her skin flickered and dimmed, retreating inch by inch. Her fist connected with Naruto's chest, but the impact was far weaker than before. She stumbled back, her breathing ragged, as the curse mark's power began to lose its grip on her.

Naruto reached out, his hand brushing against her shoulder. "It's okay," he said gently. "You're not alone in this. I'm here."

Her Sharingan dimmed, the crimson glow fading as her eyes returned to their natural color. Sayuri's body sagged, her strength leaving her as she dropped to her knees. Naruto knelt beside her, his body battered and bruised but his gaze steady. He placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch firm but comforting.

"You're still you," he said quietly. "No mark, no power, no curse can take that away from you."

Sayuri didn't respond, her breaths coming in shallow gasps as she fought to steady herself. The markings on her skin disappeared entirely, leaving only the faint scar of the curse mark on her neck. Naruto stayed by her side, his presence a silent promise that he wasn't going anywhere.

The forest had fallen unnaturally silent after the chaos. The eerie stillness amplified the tension as Naruto crouched by Sayuri's side, her trembling form wrapped tightly in his jacket. The black markings had receded, leaving her pale, clammy skin exposed. Her breathing was shallow, and her body felt like ice in his arms. He gazed down at her with a grim determination, silently vowing to protect her no matter what.

"Sayuri," he whispered, brushing damp strands of raven-black hair away from her face. Her eyes fluttered open briefly, her crimson Sharingan fading back to its natural onyx.

"Naruto…" she murmured weakly, her voice barely audible. "I… I'm sorry…"

"Don't talk," Naruto said gently. "Save your strength. We'll figure this out, I promise."

As he adjusted her to make her more comfortable, Naruto's senses prickled. He felt them before they made a sound—multiple presences lingering in the canopy above. His sharp instincts, honed through years of training, told him that these weren't predators but familiar observers. He turned his head slightly toward the trees without moving his body, his eyes narrowing. "You can come out now," he called calmly. "I know you've been watching."

For a moment, there was silence, save for the wind weaving through the forest. Then, with a rustle of leaves, two teams descended from the canopy. From one side came Team 10—Shikamaru, Choji, and Ino—each wearing expressions that ranged from concern to outright shock. From the other side emerged Team 9, led by Neji with his Byakugan activated. Lee followed close behind, his hands clenched into fists, while Tenten scanned the area with cautious eyes, one hand resting on her weapon pouch.

Shikamaru was the first to speak, his sharp gaze taking in the destruction around them—the splintered trees, scorched earth, and faint traces of malevolent chakra still clinging to the air. "What the hell happened here?" he asked, his tone calm but laced with suspicion.

"Naruto…" Ino's voice wavered as she looked around the clearing, her eyes landing on Sayuri's limp form before darting back to Naruto. "Where's Sakura? She's not… she's not…"

Naruto's heart tightened at her question. He glanced down at Sayuri, brushing a strand of damp hair from her face before meeting Ino's tearful gaze. His voice, when he finally spoke, was low and heavy with restrained emotion. "She's gone."

Ino's knees buckled, and she stumbled forward, her hands covering her mouth as she gasped in disbelief. "No… no, that's not true," she whispered, shaking her head violently. "It can't be true. She can't be…"

"She's gone, Ino," Naruto said firmly, his voice steady despite the weight in his chest. "Orochimaru killed her."

The name sent a ripple of shock through the gathered teams. Neji's usually calm demeanor faltered, and Tenten's eyes widened as she instinctively gripped her pouch tighter. Lee's face contorted with anger, his fists trembling as he struggled to contain his emotions.

"Orochimaru?!" Lee exclaimed, stepping forward. "You mean the Sannin? He attacked you?!"

Naruto nodded, his gaze hardening. "It wasn't a fight. It was a massacre. We didn't stand a chance." He gestured to Sayuri. "He killed Sakura, and he… did something to Sayuri. Gave her this curse mark."

Neji's Byakugan focused on Sayuri's neck, where the black, flame-like pattern of the mark was barely visible beneath Naruto's jacket. His expression darkened. "That mark… it's radiating malevolent chakra. It's similar to something I've seen in forbidden texts. A cursed seal designed to amplify power… at a cost."

"A cost?" Ino asked, her voice shaky. She had fallen to her knees, her hands trembling as tears streamed down her face. "What kind of cost?"

"Control," Neji said bluntly. "The seal doesn't just give power; it binds the user to its creator. Orochimaru intends to use her as a pawn."

Naruto's jaw tightened as he clenched his fists. "I know," he said, his voice low. "And I'm not going to let that happen."

Ino looked up, her tear-filled eyes burning with a mix of grief and anger. "How could this happen? How could Sakura… how could she be gone? She was so strong, so determined… I don't understand!"

Choji placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, his usual lightheartedness replaced by a rare seriousness. "I'm sorry, Ino," he said quietly. "I know how much she meant to you."

"She was my best friend," Ino whispered, her voice breaking. "Even when we were rivals, even when we fought over the dumbest things… she was always there. And now she's just… gone."

Shikamaru knelt beside her, his expression thoughtful but somber. "It's not your fault, Ino," he said. "And it's not hers, either. She fought as hard as she could. That's all any of us can do."

Lee, meanwhile, had turned his attention to Naruto. "Naruto, you said Orochimaru attacked you. How did you survive? The Sannin are… they're on another level entirely. How did you manage to escape?"

Naruto hesitated, the question hitting closer to home than he liked. He couldn't tell them the truth—that he had defeated Orochimaru through sheer willpower and the abilities inherited from his Otsutsuki heritage. Revealing that would raise too many questions, questions he wasn't ready to answer. Instead, he settled for a partial truth.

"He spared us," Naruto said flatly. "Said he had what he wanted and left."

Neji's eyes narrowed, his Byakugan scrutinizing Naruto with unsettling intensity. "That doesn't make sense," he said. "Orochimaru wouldn't leave survivors unless… unless there was a reason. What aren't you telling us, Naruto?"

Naruto met Neji's gaze head-on, his blue eyes unwavering. "Believe what you want, Neji," he said coolly. "But right now, my priority is keeping Sayuri alive and getting us through this exam."

Neji's expression hardened, but before he could respond, Lee stepped forward, holding up a hand. "Neji, enough," he said firmly. "We're all Konoha shinobi. We need to support each other, not tear each other down."

Tenten, sensing the rising tension, quickly changed the subject. "Naruto," she said, gesturing to a scroll lying on the ground. "Is that an extra Heaven Scroll?"

Naruto glanced at the scroll and nodded. "Yeah," he said. "The Sound Team left it behind when I beat them."

Neji's eyes flicked to the scroll, and he stepped forward. "We'll take it," he said. "Our team needs it."

Naruto's body shifted slightly, instinctively positioning himself between Neji and the scroll. "No," he said firmly. "That's ours. We still need to make it to the tower."

"You already have a Heaven Scroll," Neji pointed out. "You don't need two."

"And I said no," Naruto snapped, his voice cold. "You can't just take it."

The tension between the two was palpable, their gazes locked in a silent battle of wills. Before things could escalate further, Lee stepped between them again, his voice calm but insistent. "Naruto, please," he said. "I know how much you've been through today, but we need that scroll to advance. I promise you, if you help us now, we'll repay the favor in the future."

Naruto hesitated, his body tense as he weighed Lee's words. Finally, with a heavy sigh, he picked up the scroll and handed it to Lee. "Fine," he said. "Take it. But don't forget this."

Lee accepted the scroll with a solemn nod. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "You have my word."

As Team 9 prepared to leave, Neji glanced back at Naruto, his expression unreadable. "You're hiding something," he said quietly. "But that's your business. For now."

Naruto didn't respond, his focus already back on Sayuri as he adjusted the jacket covering her.

---

Kabuto didn't need to turn around to sense the arrival of his master. Orochimaru's presence, dark and oppressive, filled the small clearing on the edge of the Forest of Death. He glanced over his shoulder as the Sannin emerged from the shadows, crouching slightly as if he'd just landed from a Shunshin. Orochimaru's movements were eerily fluid, his golden eyes gleaming in the faint moonlight.

"Feeling any better, Orochimaru-sama?" Kabuto inquired, his tone polite but laced with a faint trace of amusement. "Your encounter with Naruto-kun was… intense. I can't imagine even you are used to nearly depleting your chakra reserves."

Orochimaru's lips curled into a thin smile, the edges of his mouth twitching as though he found the comment amusing. "It's been some time since I've had a battle of that caliber," he admitted, his voice smooth but tinged with annoyance. "Naruto-kun… He is far more formidable than I anticipated. Using the full power of the Kyuubi—it was unexpected, to say the least. Were it not for your intervention, Kabuto, I might not be here."

Kabuto adjusted his glasses with a slight nod. "I simply acted in your best interest, Orochimaru-sama. Holding Sayuri hostage was a calculated move. Though I must admit, I didn't expect Naruto to push you to such extremes."

Orochimaru's grin widened, but there was a sharpness to it now, a barely concealed edge of frustration. "Naruto-kun's rage over Sakura-chan's death and his protectiveness of Sayuri-chan gave him a level of focus I hadn't anticipated. He fought with the kind of fury only personal loss can provoke." He paused, his voice softening into something almost reverent. "Such raw power, such potential… It's intoxicating to witness."

The two stood on the outskirts of the forest, their voices muffled by the oppressive canopy of trees above. The darkness provided a natural shield against prying eyes, and Orochimaru preferred it that way. After his harrowing encounter with Naruto, he needed time to reassess his plans.

"My time here has been enlightening," Orochimaru continued, his tone shifting to one of oily amusement. "Initially, I only intended to mark Sayuri-chan and observe her progression, but Naruto-kun… He has surpassed all my expectations. And the fact that he is of Otsutsuki lineage?" Orochimaru's tongue flicked out briefly, a reptilian gesture that betrayed his excitement. "To have a live Otsutsuki to study… It's a treasure beyond imagining."

Kabuto tilted his head, feigning curiosity. "And yet, you refrained from marking him with your seal. Why?"

Orochimaru's gaze turned thoughtful, his voice lowering as if speaking to himself. "It would have been reckless. The Kyuubi's chakra is volatile enough without introducing my mark into the equation. There's no telling how Naruto-kun's Otsutsuki heritage would react. It might even compromise the very traits that make him so unique."

Kabuto nodded in understanding. "A wise decision. But Sayuri-chan, on the other hand…"

"Yes," Orochimaru interrupted, his grin returning. "Sayuri-chan has immense potential. Her Sharingan alone makes her a valuable asset, but it's her willpower, her connection to Naruto-kun, that intrigues me most. If Naruto proves too difficult to control or subdue, Sayuri would make an excellent alternative vessel. Her emotional vulnerability after Sakura-chan's death makes her ripe for manipulation."

Kabuto's lips twitched upward, his amusement clear. "She's certainly a strong candidate. And if her connection to Naruto-kun can be exploited…" He left the thought unfinished, the implication hanging in the air.

Orochimaru chuckled softly, his golden eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Naruto-kun's rage, his attachment to his teammates… These emotions are what drive him, but they also make him predictable. If I can find the right leverage, he will come to me willingly." He paused, his expression darkening. "But I must tread carefully. He is no ordinary child. His power rivals that of the strongest shinobi I've encountered."

Kabuto adjusted his glasses again, his tone turning analytical. "Naruto's abilities are extraordinary, but his unpredictability is both his greatest strength and his greatest weakness. He fought you to a standstill, Orochimaru-sama. That alone speaks volumes."

Orochimaru's grin faltered for a moment, replaced by a grimace. "Yes… His mastery of the Kyuubi's chakra was nearly my undoing. It's been a long time since I've faced an opponent who could truly challenge me. And yet, I cannot help but feel exhilarated. This is the kind of power I've always sought to possess."

The snake Sannin straightened, his composure returning. "But for now, we will proceed with caution. Sayuri-chan will serve as my backup plan, should Naruto-kun prove unattainable. And Naruto… I will continue to observe him. The boy is an enigma, and I intend to unravel every layer."

Kabuto inclined his head. "As you wish, Orochimaru-sama. Shall I continue monitoring their progress?"

"Yes," Orochimaru replied, his voice cold and commanding. "Keep a close eye on them. And Kabuto…" He turned, his golden eyes narrowing. "Do not underestimate Naruto-kun again. He is not a mere child. He is a storm waiting to be unleashed."

Kabuto smirked, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Understood."

---

The tension in the clearing was palpable as Ino gently placed a damp cloth on Sayuri's forehead. Her hands trembled slightly, the weight of the situation settling on her shoulders.

"She needs help, Naruto," Ino said softly, her voice barely audible over the sounds of the forest.

Naruto leaned against a nearby tree, arms crossed, his sharp senses catching every word. "You don't say," he muttered, his tone clipped, his exhaustion barely masked.

Ino shot him a glare but chose not to respond, instead focusing on Sayuri. She dipped the cloth into the bowl of water they'd scavenged earlier and wrung it out before placing it back on her forehead.

"I still can't believe you ran into Orochimaru of all people." Choji asked, his voice muffled as he munched on the last of his snacks. He and Shikamaru sat a short distance away, both watching the scene with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"Yeah," Naruto replied, getting irritated at having to reiterate his story. "What, is it supposed to be that big of a deal or something?"

Ino turned to him sharply, her blue eyes wide. "Big deal? Naruto, he's one of the Sannin! A literal legend! What the hell were you three thinking, going up against him?"

"Do you think we had a choice?" Naruto shot back, his frustration bubbling over. "That bastard came after us. We couldn't exactly run and leave each other behind." Naruto hesitated, his gaze dropping briefly to the ground. He couldn't exactly tell them the truth about how he'd managed to take on Orochimaru, nor could he reveal his Otsutsuki heritage. "He let us go," he finally said, keeping his tone even. "Said he got what he wanted and left."

Shikamaru's eyes narrowed as he studied Naruto. "That doesn't add up," he said. "Orochimaru isn't the type to just let his prey walk away, especially if they put up a fight."

Naruto shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "Well, that's what happened. Believe it or don't, I don't care."

The tension between them grew, but Ino's voice cut through it. "None of this matters if we can't get Sayuri help," she said firmly, wringing out the cloth again. "She's getting worse by the minute."

Naruto's gaze softened as he looked down at Sayuri. Her face was pale, her breathing shallow, and the faint black markings of the curse mark on her neck seemed to pulse ominously. He clenched his fists. "We need to get her to the tower," he said. "It's the only place nearby with medical facilities."

Shikamaru sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You're not wrong, but that means you need the other scroll to even get in. Do you have it?"

Naruto's frown gave him the answer.

"What a drag," Shikamaru groaned, he hadn't signed up for this.

Naruto's jaw tightened, but before he could respond, Sayuri stirred weakly. Her eyes fluttered open, and she let out a faint groan. "N-Naruto…" she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I'm here," Naruto said immediately, kneeling beside her. "Don't worry. We're getting you out of here."

Sayuri's hand weakly grasped his arm. "I… I can keep going," she said, though her voice lacked conviction.

"No, you can't," Naruto said firmly. "You need rest. We'll get to the tower, and you'll be fine. Just hang in there."

Ino watched the exchange silently, a pang of sadness crossing her features. She turned to Shikamaru. "What do you think?" she asked. "Should we help them get to the tower?"

Shikamaru sighed again, his usual lazy demeanor masking the wheels turning in his head. "They've got the scrolls," he said finally. "They don't need our help."

"Shika!" Ino snapped, glaring at him. "Are you serious? She's in no condition to make it there on her own!"

"Then Naruto can carry her," Shikamaru replied, though his tone lacked its usual bite. "It's not like they have another choice."

Naruto glanced at Shikamaru, his gaze steely. "We don't need your help," he said. "But thanks for the concern."

The atmosphere in the clearing tensed as a twig snapped, its sharp echo cutting through the air. Five pairs of eyes whipped toward the source, each shinobi instinctively reaching for their weapons. Emerging from the shadows with his hands raised in a placating gesture was Kabuto Yakushi, his expression a blend of sheepishness and disarming charm.

"Ah… sorry about that," Kabuto began, adjusting his glasses as his tone dipped into mild embarrassment. "It seems I've stumbled into the wrong place. Don't mind me; I'll just—"

"False alarm," Ino announced, lowering her kunai with a relieved sigh.

"Oh, it's just Kabuto," Choji muttered through a mouthful of chips. "For a second there, I thought it was that freaky Suna team."

The others began to relax, but Naruto's muscles remained taut. His eyes narrowed, studying Kabuto like a hawk sizing up prey. Something about the older boy's demeanor rubbed him the wrong way, and that smile… it was too practiced, too perfect. It set his teeth on edge.

Naruto's nostrils flared as an unmistakable scent wafted toward him—faint but distinct. Snakes. His fingers twitched, instinctively curling into fists. "What are you doing here, Yakushi?" he asked coldly, his tone cutting through the casual atmosphere.

Kabuto raised his hands higher, feigning innocence. "I got separated from my team," he explained smoothly. "I heard voices and thought it might be them, but it seems I was mistaken."

"Convenient," Naruto remarked, his lips curling into a tight line. "Maybe you should keep looking elsewhere."

"Naruto!" Ino chastised, shooting him a disapproving glare. "He's from Konoha! We're supposed to help our own."

"Yeah, but this is the Chūnin Exams," Naruto countered, his tone unwavering. "For all we know, his teammates could be waiting to ambush us."

Shikamaru, ever the skeptic, stepped forward, his sharp gaze locking onto Kabuto. "Naruto's not wrong," he admitted. "It's not paranoia if you consider the stakes. Kabuto showing up here conveniently separated from his team doesn't sit right with me either."

Kabuto chuckled nervously, adjusting his glasses again. "I assure you, I'm not here to cause trouble."

"Yeah, and I'm supposed to believe that?" Naruto retorted. His attention didn't waver from Kabuto, his instincts screaming at him to stay on guard.

As the tension simmered, Ino suddenly squinted at Naruto, her head tilting curiously. "Hey… aren't your eyes usually blue?"

Naruto blinked, caught off guard by the abrupt change in topic. "What?" he muttered, feeling a pang of panic ripple through him.

"They're red now," Ino pointed out, stepping closer to examine him. "What's going on? Did you get hurt or something?"

Naruto instinctively looked away, realizing his goggles were missing. His stomach churned as he scrambled for an explanation. "Uh… it's probably just the lighting or something," he mumbled, trying to deflect.

"It's not the lighting," Shikamaru interjected, his tone laced with suspicion. "Eye color doesn't just change like that. You want to explain what's really going on, Naruto?"

Naruto's throat tightened as the group closed in, their curiosity quickly morphing into concern and scrutiny. Sayuri, feverish and barely conscious, stirred slightly beside him, drawing his gaze briefly before he focused back on the others.

"Guys, it's nothing, okay?" Naruto said, trying to sound dismissive. "Can we just focus on Sayuri right now?"

But Shikamaru wasn't so easily deterred. "Back in the academy, your eyes were definitely blue," he pressed. "What could've caused them to change?"

Naruto glanced at Ino, whose face was only inches from his own as she peered into his eyes with unrelenting curiosity. He shifted uncomfortably, his mind racing for a plausible excuse.

"Maybe it's chakra-related," Shikamaru mused aloud, his analytical mind running through possibilities. "Some kind of reaction to a high-intensity event?"

The words hit Naruto like a punch to the gut. His mind flashed back to Wave Country, to the bridge, to Sakura's terrified face as she described the strange chakra that had erupted from him. He gritted his teeth, trying to suppress the rising memories.

"Naruto," Shikamaru said, his voice quieter but no less probing. "Is there something you're not telling us?"

Naruto opened his mouth to respond, but Kabuto, who had been silent until now, stepped forward with a polite smile. "Perhaps I could take a look," he offered. "I have some medical training, and eye conditions are within my expertise."

Naruto stiffened. That scent of snakes felt stronger now, more oppressive. He hesitated, but under the weight of everyone's expectant gazes, he begrudgingly nodded.

Kabuto approached, pulling out a small flashlight. "Hold still, Naruto-kun. This won't take long." He shined the light into Naruto's eyes, his expression unreadable as he examined them.

"Well?" Ino asked impatiently, her nerves fraying. "What's wrong with him?"

Kabuto adjusted his glasses and stepped back, his voice calm and clinical. "It's likely a rare condition called Chakra Eye Syndrome," he said. "It's not harmful, but it can cause changes in iris pigmentation after exposure to high levels of chakra."

"Chakra Eye Syndrome?" Shikamaru repeated skeptically.

Kabuto nodded. "It's rare, but it happens. Usually in individuals who've experienced significant chakra-related trauma or strain."

Naruto exhaled quietly, relieved that Kabuto had provided a convenient cover. "See? Nothing to worry about," he said, trying to sound nonchalant.

Shikamaru didn't look entirely convinced but decided to let it drop. "Troublesome," he muttered, crossing his arms.

Before the conversation could continue, Sayuri let out a weak groan, drawing everyone's attention. Kabuto's gaze shifted to her, and his expression softened. "She's feverish," he noted. "What happened to her?"

Naruto hesitated for a moment, then replied, "She got bitten during the exam. There's some kind of mark on her neck. We don't know what it is, but it's making her worse."

Kabuto's smile returned, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I could take a closer look if you'd like," he offered, his tone even.

Naruto's instincts screamed at him to refuse, but Sayuri's worsening condition left him with little choice. Reluctantly, he nodded. "Fine. But no funny business."

"Of course," Kabuto said smoothly, crouching beside Sayuri. As he began his examination, Naruto kept his eyes locked on him, his body coiled like a spring. He didn't trust this guy, not one bit.

After what felt like an eternity of tense silence, Kabuto finally spoke, his tone far too serious for anyone's comfort. "This is… quite concerning."

Everyone froze, their breaths hitching.

Ino was the first to break the silence, her voice unsteady. "W-What's wrong?"

Kabuto tapped his chin thoughtfully before gesturing to the three curved markings on Sayuri's neck. "Her body is reacting badly to the chakra imbued within this seal. It's spreading, destabilizing her chakra network. Unfortunately, I can't offer the level of treatment she needs here."

Naruto's hands clenched into fists as fury erupted within him. With a guttural growl, he lashed out at the nearest tree, leaving a jagged dent as red wisps of energy flickered around his fingers.

"However," Kabuto added quickly, the slightest hint of a smile playing on his lips, "there may be a way to get her to safety—to the tower, where she can receive proper medical care."

Naruto's glare snapped to him, and before he could speak, Sayuri's weak murmur shifted everyone's attention back to her.

"What do we need to do?" Naruto finally asked, his voice low and tight with barely restrained anger.

Kabuto adjusted his glasses calmly, though there was something unnervingly calculated in his movements. "I'll need a word with you privately, Naruto-kun," he said, his tone polite but firm.

Naruto's jaw tightened, his instincts screaming. That snake-like scent was stronger now, coiling around Kabuto like a sinister aura. Every nerve in his body told him this man was hiding far too much.

---

Temari flinched as her youngest brother annihilated another genin, this time a hapless Kusa shinobi. The victim's scream was cut short as a tidal wave of sand engulfed him, the crushing force turning him into a grotesque stain on the battlefield. Blood sprayed through the air, mingling with the sand in a macabre dance before splattering the surrounding area. Gaara stood at the center of the carnage, unbothered by the gruesome scene, his pale face serene under the cover of a pilfered umbrella—spoils from an earlier encounter with an Ame team.

The remaining members of the Kusa trio moved to retaliate, their rage overcoming their fear. But the sand moved faster. Tendrils of it lashed out, ensnaring them mid-step. They struggled, their efforts futile as the sand constricted, crushing them with merciless precision. Moments later, only the crimson-streaked remnants of their bodies remained.

Gaara lowered his hand, his face void of satisfaction despite the carnage. The thrill of the kill no longer soothed him. Ever since he felt that surge of monstrous chakra in the distance, Shukaku had been restless, its frenzied demands echoing in his mind. The beast's insatiable bloodlust now burned within him, urging him toward a target that eluded his grasp. No matter how many he killed, the emptiness inside him grew.

There were two he sought. Two who might finally quench the fury roaring in his veins. Uzumaki Naruto… and Uchiha Sayuri.

"I'll find you," Gaara murmured under his breath, his sand swirling restlessly at his feet like a predator circling its prey.

Kankurō, standing beside Temari, leaned in closer, his voice barely audible as he spoke. "Is it just me, or is Gaara more unhinged than usual? He's not waiting for anyone to challenge him. He's actively hunting teams down."

Temari nodded grimly, her knuckles white as she gripped her fan. Kankurō wasn't wrong. Normally, Gaara remained stationary, letting unfortunate challengers come to him. But this time was different. Since they'd entered Konoha, his bloodlust had been unnervingly high, and it only seemed to grow worse once they stepped into the Forest of Death.

"He's looking for someone," Temari whispered, her voice tight with unease. "And whoever it is… they're doomed."

The realization chilled her to the bone. Gaara's unusual aggression wasn't random—it was focused. Directed. He wasn't just killing for the sake of it. He was hunting.

Her gaze shifted to her brother, who stood eerily still amidst the carnage, his green eyes glinting with an unsettling intensity. The sand around him writhed, as if mirroring the chaos within. Temari swallowed hard, a silent prayer forming in her mind for whoever had drawn Gaara's attention.

She didn't envy them. Gaara was relentless, and once he set his sights on a target, nothing would stand in his way.

---

Naruto barely had time to react before his back slammed against the trunk of a massive tree, the impact forcing a pained gasp from his lungs. A hand gripped his throat like a vice, pinning him in place with unyielding strength. At the same time, a faintly glowing palm hovered inches from his face, radiating a deadly intent. The cold, calculating smirk on the masked figure's face turned cruel as Kabuto Yakushi finally revealed his true nature.

Naruto's crimson eyes narrowed, glaring daggers at his assailant despite the pressure against his windpipe. "I never liked you," he rasped, his voice rough but defiant. "I couldn't figure out why at first, but now it's obvious. You're not the harmless 'nice guy' you pretended to be."

Kabuto chuckled, his tone mocking. "Astute observation, Naruto-kun. Even from the beginning, you doubted me. It seems your instincts are sharper than I gave you credit for. Veterans possess that kind of intuition, after all."

Naruto's lips curled into a snarl despite his precarious position. "It's not paranoia when people actually are out to get you. Now, what do you want?" he demanded, his tone sharp even as Kabuto's grip tightened.

Kabuto's smirk widened, his gaze filled with cold amusement. "Why didn't you utilize the full potential of your power against Orochimaru-sama?" he asked cryptically.

Naruto's eye twitched, anger flickering behind his crimson irises. "Oh, so you were watching when I wiped the floor with that snake bastard?" he spat. "What's the matter, Kabuto? Not enough guts to step in and save your precious master?"

The smirk faded, replaced by a chilling calm. Kabuto's fingers dug into Naruto's throat, cutting off his retort. "Careful, Naruto-kun," he warned. "Your bravado is amusing, but it's also unwise. Answer the question."

Naruto glared back at him, silent defiance radiating from his entire being. Kabuto's patience wore thin, and his grip tightened further. Pain shot through Naruto's neck as the pressure increased, but he refused to break.

A flicker of orange surged in Naruto's left eye as his Rinnegan flared to life, its glow bathing Kabuto in an ominous light. Before Kabuto could react, Naruto's free hand shot upward, claws extending from his fingertips as his nails tore into Kabuto's chest. Blood spattered across the bark of the tree as Kabuto was pushed back by an invisible force sending him flying.

"Don't touch me." Naruto growled menacingly.

Kabuto landed on a nearby branch, pressing a glowing hand to his chest to heal the gouges left by Naruto's attack. Despite the blood dripping from his fingers, his smirk returned, more amused than ever. "Impressive. Controlling the Kyuubi's power coupled with the Rinnegan so precisely… you really are full of surprises."

Naruto's eyes narrowed, his claws retracting as his gaze sharpened. "I demolished Orochimaru, Kabuto," he said, his voice cold. "I could've ended him if it weren't for you and your cowardly interference. Don't think for a second I'll let you walk away from this."

Kabuto raised his hands in mock surrender, his expression unbothered. "Oh, I have no doubt about your capabilities, Naruto-kun. But I'm not here to fight you," he said smoothly, reaching into his pouch. From it, he produced a scroll and tossed it toward Naruto. "Consider this a gift."

Naruto caught the scroll with one hand, his eyes narrowing as he examined it. His gaze snapped back to Kabuto, suspicion etched across his face. "An Earth Scroll? What's the catch?"

Kabuto adjusted his glasses, the light glinting off the lenses. "No catch. Orochimaru-sama and I have taken an interest in you and your teammates," he explained, his voice calm but with an underlying menace. "However, I must warn you—drop out of this exam, and there will be… consequences."

Naruto's teeth clenched, his chakra flaring slightly. "What kind of consequences?" he demanded.

Kabuto's smirk returned, sharper than ever. "Let's just say they won't be pleasant. And with Sakura-chan gone and Sayuri still unconscious, I'm sure you understand how… precarious your situation is."

A shiver ran down Naruto's spine at the mention of Sakura, the pain of her loss still fresh and raw. His hands balled into fists, his voice trembling with barely contained fury. "What did that snake freak do to Sayuri?"

Kabuto shrugged nonchalantly. "Orochimaru-sama merely gave her a… taste of the power he's offering. The same power he offered to you, should you ever choose to accept it."

Naruto scoffed, his glare intensifying. "Yeah, I'm not interested in whatever twisted experiments he's cooking up. And I'm definitely not into creepy old men with a fetish for kekkei genkai."

Kabuto chuckled, shaking his head. "You may think that now, Naruto-kun, but in time, you'll come to him. One way or another."

Naruto's patience snapped. In a blur of motion, he appeared in front of Kabuto, his chakra-charged fist aimed directly at his face. But Kabuto vanished just as quickly, disappearing in a swirl of leaves as Naruto's punch splintered the branch he'd been standing on.

The forest fell silent once more, leaving Naruto alone with the Earth Scroll in his hand and a storm of emotions raging in his chest. He glared at the spot where Kabuto had stood moments ago, his thoughts swirling with anger, frustration, and a simmering resolve.

---

The group sat tensely in the clearing as the weight of the recent events hung over them. Sayuri was still unconscious, her breathing shallow, and Ino's pacing back and forth was beginning to grate on everyone's nerves. Her bottom lip was red from incessant chewing, and her tear-streaked face made it clear she was barely holding herself together.

"Can you sit down already?" Shikamaru asked, his tone equal parts annoyance and order. "You're making me even more nervous."

Ino spun on him, her voice cracking. "How can you just sit there?! They've been gone way too long! What if something happened to Naruto? Or—" She faltered, her voice trembling as she gestured to Sayuri, "What if something happens to her too?"

Shikamaru sighed, rubbing his temple. "Naruto's not the type to just drop dead. The guy's like a stubborn weed—impossible to get rid of. He'll be fine."

Ino's eyes widened, her grief making her voice sharper. "Fine? Fine? Sakura's dead, Shikamaru! How can you say that like nothing's wrong?"

This time, it was Sayuri—still weak and feverish—who rasped from where she lay, her voice barely above a whisper. "He's right… Naruto's too stubborn to die. Believe me… I've tried."

The attempt at humor was dry, almost lifeless, but it cut through the tension. Everyone glanced toward her, surprised she was awake and coherent enough to speak. Shikamaru smirked faintly at her words, though it lacked his usual energy. "See? Even she agrees."

Ino stopped pacing but crossed her arms, glaring at them both. "I don't care how stubborn he is; we can't just assume nothing's wrong. He could be in trouble!"

Before anyone could respond, a familiar voice interrupted. "Trouble? Me? Nah, just had to take a little detour."

All heads turned as Naruto strolled into the clearing. His clothes were torn, and his face was streaked with dirt and dried blood, but he looked remarkably unfazed. His arm swayed at his side, and with it, a scroll.

"Naruto!" Ino gasped, rushing toward him. Her tear-filled eyes scanned his face and body. "You're okay! I—Where's Kabuto?"

Naruto's expression darkened for a fraction of a second before he schooled it into nonchalance. He raised the scroll slightly, showing it to the group, but ignored Ino's question. "Got the scroll we need," he said simply, his tone flat.

Shikamaru's sharp eyes caught the shift in Naruto's demeanor, but he didn't press immediately. "That's an Earth Scroll," he noted. "You didn't—"

"No," Naruto interrupted quickly, his tone curt. "I didn't steal it. A team from Ame ambushed us. Kabuto tossed me the scroll and led them away so I could get back here. That's all."

Ino's mouth fell open, her voice shrill with disbelief. "You just let him go? What if something happens to him too?!" Her voice cracked again, her grief over Sakura bubbling to the surface. "What if he—he—"

"Ino," Shikamaru interjected, his voice calm but firm. "Focus. We don't have time to argue about Kabuto. Naruto got the scroll. That's what matters right now."

"But we can't enter the tower with just one scroll!" Choji reminded, looking worried. "We need both."

Shikamaru rolled his eyes, already forming a plan. "We'll figure it out once we get Sayuri inside. For now, we move. The longer we stay here, the more likely it is someone finds us."

The group nodded in agreement. Naruto knelt to gather their supplies, his movements slower than usual, while Shikamaru and Choji carefully lifted Sayuri, cradling her between them. Ino hesitated for a moment, her eyes flickering with uncertainty, but eventually, she fell into step with Naruto as the group set off at a brisk pace toward the tower.

As they moved through the dense forest, Ino stayed close to Naruto, her eyes darting toward him every so often. She bit her lip, her usual confidence replaced by an almost fragile hesitance. Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter than he'd ever heard it.

"Naruto," she began, glancing around to make sure the others weren't listening, "I… I need to ask you something."

Naruto didn't respond immediately, his sharp eyes scanning their surroundings. He knew exactly what she wanted to talk about, and he wasn't ready for it. "What is it?" he asked tersely, not looking at her.

Ino hesitated, then pressed on. "Back there, in the clearing… something happened. I don't know what it was, but I saw it. Your eyes—they weren't blue. And that chakra… it wasn't normal, was it?"

Naruto's jaw tightened. "It's nothing," he said curtly. "You're imagining things."

"I'm not stupid, Naruto," Ino said, her voice shaking slightly but growing firmer. "I don't know what's going on with you, but I can tell you're hiding something. And after everything that's happened—with Sakura, with Sayuri—don't you think we deserve to know?"

Naruto stopped walking abruptly, turning to face her. His eyes, now their usual blue, locked onto hers with a mix of frustration and vulnerability. "It's not that simple, Ino," he said quietly. "There are things I can't tell you—not yet. Not because I don't trust you, but because… it's not safe."

Ino's eyes softened, her grief momentarily giving way to understanding. "I don't care how dangerous it is," she said earnestly. "You're my classmate, and Sakura was my best friend. If something's wrong, I want to help."

Naruto hesitated, the weight of her words pressing down on him. "Great! Now I'll have to wipe Ino's memory too." Finally, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright," he said reluctantly. "But not now. When this is over, when we're somewhere safe, I'll tell you everything. But you have to promise me—promise—you won't tell anyone else."

Ino nodded immediately, her expression serious. "I promise."

"Alright then," Naruto said, his voice heavy. "Let's keep moving. We still have to get Sayuri to the tower."

The two fell silent as they rejoined the others, the forest around them alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant wildlife. But even as they moved forward, Ino couldn't shake the feeling that whatever Naruto was hiding was bigger than any of them could imagine. And for the first time, she wondered if she was truly ready to hear the truth.

---

The dimly lit chamber buzzed with an eerie silence, the only sound being the faint crackle of a torch mounted on the stone wall. Orochimaru lounged against a massive stone chair, his pale features still drawn and wan from the earlier confrontation. His serpentine eyes, though dulled by fatigue, gleamed with a mix of irritation and intrigue.

A sudden gust of wind heralded Kabuto's arrival, the silver-haired medic materializing from the shadows with his usual calm demeanor. Without looking up, Orochimaru spoke, his voice low and venomous. "Did you deliver the scroll?"

Kabuto smirked faintly, brushing a speck of dust off his coat. "Indeed, Orochimaru-sama. Though I must say, your benevolence is… uncharacteristic." His tone carried a mocking edge. "Helping them along, especially Naruto-kun, seems almost altruistic."

Orochimaru's thin lips curled into an oily leer. "Benevolence? Hardly. Call it curiosity." He shifted slightly, the motion betraying the stiffness in his movements. The battle with Naruto had taken more out of him than he cared to admit, and his body was still recovering. "Naruto-kun is… fascinating. I can't help but wonder how far his rage and power will take him. Perhaps Gaara will prove a worthy test. After all, nothing inspires growth quite like pain."

Kabuto's eyes flickered with amusement as he leaned against a nearby wall. "And what of Sayuri-chan? I assume her condition pique your interest as well?"

Orochimaru's smile faded, his tone turning contemplative. "Sayuri is… promising. Despite her condition, I sense a certain resilience in her. Once the cursed seal fully takes root, she'll either break or ascend to greatness."

Kabuto's smirk faltered, his expression taking on a darker edge. "Sayuri's survival is impressive, given the strain of the cursed seal. But Naruto… he's proving to be far more formidable than expected. When I encountered him, his chakra coils were saturated with the Kyuubi's energy—more so than I anticipated. It wasn't just a fleeting surge. The demonic chakra was sustained and controlled, even as his rage threatened to consume him."

Orochimaru's eyes narrowed, a flicker of unease crossing his face. "Controlled, you say?" He tapped his fingers on the armrest of his chair, his mind racing. "That's… troubling. I underestimated just how far Naruto-kun has come. His power nearly killed me." His voice dropped to a venomous hiss. "If not for your intervention, Kabuto, I wouldn't be sitting here."

Kabuto adjusted his glasses, his smirk returning. "It was fortunate that Sayuri's presence gave us leverage. Even in his fury, Naruto wouldn't risk her life. His protectiveness over her borders on obsession, likely exacerbated by Sakura's death. He blames himself, and that guilt fuels his desperation to shield Sayuri from harm."

Orochimaru's expression twisted into a mix of annoyance and intrigue. "Such attachments make him both predictable and dangerous. He will fight harder for others than for himself, but his rage blinds him. That boy… he's a paradox. So raw and undisciplined, yet his control over the Kyuubi's power is masterful. Almost… trained."

Kabuto's smile widened at the implication. "You suspect someone has been grooming him? Danzo, perhaps? It wouldn't be the first time he's manipulated promising talent."

Orochimaru's golden eyes glimmered with suspicion. "Danzo… yes. That old vulture. It wouldn't surprise me if he had his hand in Naruto-kun's development. He always did have a taste for dangerous experiments." Orochimaru's fingers tapped rhythmically against the chair. "If Danzo has been involved, it explains much. But it also complicates matters. Naruto-kun is already a wild card; Danzo's influence would make him even more volatile."

Kabuto tilted his head thoughtfully. "It's also possible Naruto's growth is more organic. He's endured enough trauma to push anyone beyond their limits. Losing Sakura undoubtedly shattered something within him, but it also ignited a fire. His rage… it's almost tangible. If we're not careful, it could consume us both."

Orochimaru let out a low chuckle, though it lacked humor. "If he could kill me once, Kabuto, he can certainly try again. The boy's potential is limitless, but so is his unpredictability. I'll admit… he intrigues me. He's a blend of chaos and control, destruction and loyalty. A true enigma." He leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "But if I am to use him—if I am to claim that power for myself—I must first find a way to suppress the Kyuubi. Its presence complicates everything."

Kabuto nodded, his tone cautious. "The seal holding the Kyuubi is strong, but Naruto's control over it suggests he's mastering its power, not just containing it. If we're to neutralize him, we'll need more than brute force. Subtlety will be key."

"Subtlety is my specialty," Orochimaru hissed, though his usual confidence was marred by a flicker of uncertainty. "But even I have limits. That battle with Naruto… it exposed weaknesses I cannot ignore. His strength is not just in his chakra—it's in his will. That will is what makes him so dangerous."

The room fell silent, the weight of Orochimaru's admission hanging heavy in the air. Kabuto straightened, adjusting his glasses as he studied his master. "Then we must act carefully. Naruto's protectiveness over Sayuri is a vulnerability we can exploit. And if he is driven by Sakura's death, we must ensure his grief blinds him further."

Orochimaru's lips curled into a sinister smile. "Yes… grief is a powerful tool. Let his pain guide him to me. And when the time comes, Naruto-kun will have no choice but to surrender to my will."

Kabuto nodded, his expression unreadable. "And if he doesn't?"

Orochimaru's smile widened, his voice dripping with malice. "Then I'll ensure he regrets it."

For a moment, the only sound was the crackle of the torch, its light casting flickering shadows across the chamber. In that dim, oppressive space, Orochimaru and Kabuto's schemes continued to take shape, their sights set firmly on the boy who had already shaken their plans to their core.