Chapter 57: Another Day in the Wild!
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AN
Ok back with a relatively recent update. It Took some hard work but I’m making the effort to get back on track. Juggling DiA and TSTC is as difficult as I had thought but I’m glad I decided to do so. Eventually I intend to have a rotating roster of fanfics before I strike out to make my own creative work.
Our adventure in Terra, well mostly Irminsul, has been relatively chaotic thus far. Even for DiA standards there is quite a bit going on. But with the plans I have, this kind of pace is to be expected from now on.
Also fuck hurricanes, I moved from Florida partially to avoid the giant pain in the asses yet still get hit with the storms from it. Story of my life, at the very least the power was only out for a few days. Back in Florida I spent a week trapped inside with no power, this was much easier.
Anyway, no need for a long drawn out monologue from myself, enjoy~!
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RECAP
Naruto and Yuno, during the play held by the Blechumi, had a deep conversation, at first, regarding their inability to search for their friends at night. However, it evolves into a discussion regarding Naruto and supposed similarities to Sasuke. Ending with Yuno asking Naruto to help Sasuke on her behalf, something Naruto hesitantly agrees to…
Leifazu encountered the Crawling Demons during his night watch. Afterward, Suzumebachi, Mishiro, and she discussed Jibachi's recent passing and Kurobachi still being missing and plans for the future. They decided to require aid using Suzumebachi's unique ability. However, Mishiro and Leifazu do place a seal on her for accountability…
Onoki holds a meeting with his council regarding the recent discovery of some of the Leaf's most promising youth and jinchuriki of the Kyuubi going missing. His council leans towards war. However, Onoki's concern over the other villages leads to him seeking council with the Sand first…
Shino's group begins to awaken and plan for the day. However, during this time, the Antuni Clan suffers a mysterious attack from a strange creature, leading Shino's group to decide to help defend the Clan…
Muri focuses on finding Naruto after the disturbing night he had. This allows him to eventually find him, and with Sasuke in agreement, the two head out to meet with him…
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Notable Feedback and Responses
JubiKuro FF
Why was Naruto vs Kuro introduced last in this when in a previous chapter their bout was supposed to be the 1st match. Ah Kuro calling me out so justly lol. The folly of posting these is posting when someone correctly calls you out lol. But we show the W’s and L’s here. Either way, back when I was writing the Exams I was pretty flippant on the order of the fights, unintentionally switching up the announced order a couple of times. I could’ve fixed it but I liked the new order instead anyway and it didn’t see, to overly bother everyone. An honest mistake, thanks for reading and pointing it out. I’m planning once we hit a certain arc to take a break to enhance early chapters to fix stuff like this.
Paranoiart A03
I actually read this a few days ago, but I’m finally getting the chance to comment (was in a tropical storm and the power is still out, but I managed to connect to a hotspot, so I can comment now) Yuno is really perceptive, almost scarily so. I liked the insight on the Stone's government structure, it’s interesting how it’s similar in some aspects, but also very different from the Leaf's
The Stone seems to be at more of a disadvantage than anyone else right now, they don’t seem to have any strong alliances, I think Onoki made the right choice by not making a move right away, it’s better for them to be cautious at this point. Muri and Naruto will finally reunite soon, he must be very happy. My little friend was indeed very happy, and Yuno’s personality and her OC insertion at all is my answer to a problem I have with canon. (Obviously with Sasuke, but the what and the how you’ll have to find out lol). The Stone and all the villages will eventually be explored to various degrees of intensity. The idea of Despite it All is doing everything I wanted in a Naruto fic, myself in my own style, without compromise (I only slightly regret it! In the original notes this was much shorter lol). Also I also suffered from the Hurricane, not much but we similar went a few days without power. Slowed me down unfortunately, thanks as always.
erikteviking1112 A03
<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3 Know we doing alright as long as Erik is here lol. Thanks as always!
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Naruto’s POV (Southern Swamps of Irminsul - Terra)
"Okay, originally I overlooked just how impressive this could be, but now…" Naruto said as he and Yuno both marveled at their new outfits. A day full of combat for Naruto and an extended stay in the wild for Yuno had left both of their outfits rough and tattered. Something the blonde hadn’t mind but Yuno did. Decidedly Ichumi had insisted he had new appropriate clothes for them. Naruto was clothed in what appeared to be a beige coat made of a thick smooth fabric, with hidden pockets stashed throughout that held both Riptide and his general supplies; his inside shirt was now a black one with an orange Uzumaki Clan symbol on it. His pants were a dark brown, and his sandals had been replaced by boots. His blonde hair was somewhat contained within a black sun hat.
Yuno was similarly clothed in a darker biege, with a more oversized tan sun hat and several hidden folds for her blade and weapons. She also spotted what seemed to be sunglasses for her eyes, though Naruto struggled to imagine how they had created such. (1)
"Utility that actually looks somewhat fashionable?" Yuno noted with amusement. "Shame I can't have the Blechumi around all the time."
"Definitely masters of their craft." Naruto acknowledged with a nod. "Nice of them to make us some medical supplies as well. Mine, we're stretched thin treating you."
"They also gave us something for if we run into Kiba or any of the others who have been turned," Yuno said with a smirk. "That being said, what is the plan for today, Blondie?"
"We're gonna use today to be certain that the southern portion of Irminsul is clear. As well as check out and, if necessary, eliminate the mosquito clan." Naruto said resolutely.
"Surprised you're prepared for that option," Yuno said with a raised brow.
"Encountered them myself and know for a fact they just mindlessly hunt. Stumbled upon my home and can't help but wonder if they managed to get any of us… we'll check, and more than likely, I'll take care of them if they seem like a valid threat." Naruto said with a nod of his head.
"I suppose that makes sense protectively," Yuno sighed. "However, you're right to assume they're a threat. Even this mysterious "Master" was wary of them. I'd like to deal with them now. Then potentially later… though giant mosquitoes are gross…”
"Only if we have to. I intend to try to work something out. Maybe I can work out some sort of truce agreement. Or at the very least intimidate them… taking them out is a last resort…" Naruto said hesitantly.
"Thank you, Kami. I thought you really were Sasuke for a moment," Yuno said with mock relief. Alright, I'm game then Blondie."
"Perfect! But first! Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Naruto yelled out. With a massive puff of smoke the branches of the trees just outside of the Blechumi Clan were filled. Fifty Clones were assembled and immediately broke off into groups of five. "Alright, you all know the plan! We're gonna finish up in this area! We'll retrace my own steps southward. While we do so, you guys will split up and cover the rest. Try to avoid conflict if possible, but if something or something is outright aggressive, signal to another group and attempt to take it down. If it reaches nightfall and you find nothing, risk searching through the night; if you find something and die, I'll know I need to make a move. Remember, if a clan speaks to you cordially to bring up the Okama, while it may aggravate some, finding allies right now is invaluable." Naruto lectured the clones.
"It would also be a good idea for them to transform into the others except for Kiba. If they encounter the master and feign capture, they could be taken right to their home camp." Yuno pointed out.
"Damn, why didn't we think of that!"
"Surrendering to a creep rubs me the wrong way!"
"Wouldn't capturing and bringing them back be better?"
The clones sounded off.
"No, she has a point." The original blonde chimed in. "With the smaller groups and the possibility of you failing and us losing a lead, it would be best to play it smart."
"Boo!"
"Fuck that!"
"Let's just kick their asses like usual."
"They seem so juvenile compared to you." Yuno pointed out, barely containing a giggle.
"I think it's due to lack of care due to their short life spans," Naruto admitted. "Though admittedly, I am often called juvenile. HEY, YOU DAMN CLONES, I'LL START DISPELLING YOU REBELLIOUS BASTARDS! DON'T TEST ME!" Naruto roared. Yuno could merely balk. Before long, the duo watched as the clones roared and marched out. Quickly fanning out and disappearing within the thick swamps towards the north.
"Can you really afford to do that again?" Yuno asked.
"Eh, it only tired me yesterday because I practically fought and traveled through the swamps on short notice. Today, I'm well-rested, fed, and prepared. Besides, even if it did wear me out, it would be worth it; they'll cover way more ground than the two us wood even while flying. Provide a ton of info, and hey, if they stumble across someone or thing that needs help, all the better." Naruto assured her.
"Whatever you say, Blondie. So how are we searching anyway?" Yuno asked. “Even with the grounds this swamp area is massive.”
"Climb aboard Air Uzumaki!" Naruto cried out as he hunched over to allow her to climb on his back.
"Oh, so you want my chest against your back all day?" Yuno purred. "And here I thought you were immune to my charms…"
"Well, if we're flying, it's probably the best way to do it. Besides, you are charming, but I know you're just teasing." Naruto said with a roll of his eyes.
"You can't know what even I don't ~!" Yuno sang as she hopped onto his back. Naruto felt a chill when he realized why she had mentioned her chest, especially when she seemed to intentionally lean in more… "Ah, so tense~! I think today just may be fun~!"
"M-maybe we should just walk!"
"But I'm still recovering!" Yuno complained, suddenly sounding tired. Naruto was almost sure she was faking, but she looked so convincing that his guilt wouldn't allow him to call her bluff.
"Fine, but no weird business!"
"Cup size is C, by the way."
"Yuno!"
"You never fail to entertain Blondie~!" (2)
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Sasuke’s POV (Northern Mountains of Irminsul - Terra)
Sasuke sat upon Muri's back, the irony of which was not lost to him. The small raccoon had managed to transform into a giant eagle, which they used to leave the Northern Mountains of Irminsul. The peaks looked so simple and tranquil. Yet Sasuke knew that they were similar to their own home full of hatred and violence. Within these peaks, Sasuke witnessed war and cruelty on a level he had yet to personally see. He had been curious whether these intelligent animals would differ from humans. Though it seemed all intelligent life was cursed to the darkness of their mind. A fitting if not cynical lesson to learn.
The state of which affected Muri as well. Since the cruel torture and consuming of Spleen Feaster, he had been quiet still. More so once he had discovered Naruto's position. It seemed the strange creature sought its summoner for comfort. Sasuke could somewhat understand; he had suffered various traumas and had sought the comfort of others on the are occasion. But he had heard summoning creatures were powerful, intelligent, and experienced combatants. Over the years, this has proven an invaluable ally to Shinobi worldwide. But Muri did not fit such; he was not decisive, seeming to be more of a support role than anything; he was intelligent but consistently came across as sheltered and naive. Sasuke himself would never ally himself with such. Even if the raccoon had grown on him he was certain he could not use it. It made Naruto all the more confusing for the Uchiha. (3)
Muri had told him Naruto was in the company of a female human. It could merely be Sakura or Hinata, but Sasuke felt in his gut it would be Yuno. There were very few people Sasuke counted as close, even fewer he could claim to have never felt burdened or infuriated. But Yuno was in that group; as were Hinata and Shino to lesser degrees. She had proven caring and supportive; she was the only other Uchiha who ever seemed in something of agreement of his goals; she also was not ignorant or weak, which Sasuke found intolerable and as such the perfect person for him. Yet if she was there, then Sasuke felt conflicted. He could not trust Naruto Uzumaki with her…
He held no discontent for the Uzumaki; he had proven his loyalty and bravery towards his friends by now, proven an impressive level of strength, and even had raised with Sasuke to the rank of Chunin; despite all that, however, Sasuke could not admit to feeling any love for Naruto all the same. He constantly came across as if he was impulsive and ignorant; he had been an idiot throughout the years of the academy and had the heart and strength to fight for what he believed in. However, Naruto was never willing to do whatever he needed to win. Someone like that would never truly succeed; it was a reasonable flaw but, in Sasuke's opinion, a damned one. Though if he did save Yuno, perhaps he was wrong… at least some sort of thanks would be in order.
But more than anything, Sasuke felt a mounting pressure building within him. He had not found; Hinata, Shino, Choji, Lee, Kiba, Sakura, or even Yuno. One of those three females was with Naruto, but even then, it had been a full day, and they still had six more allies to find. And with the night demons and Kami knowing what else roaming the forest, it was unacceptable!
Naruto would be helpful to have around, and since Sasuke was sure the North was cleared, he was confident the Blonde would've at least started exploring the South. They could cover massive grounds with four of them and deal with any threat. If only Muri could go faster-
"Keeee Ahhhh!" A massive shadow covered the two as two brown blurs flew past them from above.
"Muri, I thought you could sense things approaching!" Sasuke barked as the two blurs flew around them at absurd speeds.
"I'm struggling here! Transforming and maintaining form for travel is strenuous and kinda dominates the mind!" Muri complained. "They're too fast to outrun! Should we fight?"
"I don't think that will be a choice…" Sasuke trailed off as he watched the hawks with wary eyes. The blurs now flew lower, stopping well before the flying Muri. They flew around each other in a tight rotation with such speed they became one solid blur. Suddenly, feathers shout out from the blur in mass, each speeding through the air towards them. 'More enemies? Very well then…' Sasuke thought as he blinked, his Sharigan activated as he did so. His now-boosted vision could see the feathers full of chakra, their impressive speed, and just where they would hit the two of them. "Muri detransform for about three seconds…"
"What?!"
"Just do it unless you wish to die!" Sasuke barked as the feather drew within mere feet of them. Muri, perhaps realizing Sasuke had a plan, did so, Sasuke quickly clutching onto the now small raccoon as he pulled out a kunai. Sasuke willed his chakra and used Ash Stepped a few feet forward, bypassing the first wave of feathers. Within an instant of arriving, Sasuke twirled his body away from several more as his kunai flew through the air, deflecting many feathers with each stroke of his blade. '1!' Sasuke thought as he continued to evade and deflect feathers as he drew closer to the blurs. A wall of feathers stood between the two, but Sasuke merely chucked Muri above the wall of death and drew a second kunai. With a twirl, Sasuke dual-wielded kunai and deflected feathers with ease. '2!' Finally reaching the end of the volley right as the strange creatures prepared another one. Sasuke did not flinch, however, merely chucking a kunai with an explosive note at both. It exploded just before them.
The explosion knocked both blurs out of the air. Free Falling to the distant ground below. Sasuke observed as he caught Muri also falling. '3.' Muri poofed back into the giant eagle and continued their path.
"Sasuke, are you okay!? I wasn't sure you could survive that!" Muri asked worriedly.
"Just fine," Sasuke informed me with a calm nod. “Wonder why they attacked.”
“It’s strange indeed, other than hunting smaller creatures they keep to themselves. They are not a clan to be trifled with…”
"That is good." A chirpy, high-pitched voice called. Muri and Sasuke looked down below them to see the blurs now floating below them. The two blurs from below now stood still, allowing the two of them to see who had impeded them. It was two hawks, easily more prominent than the form of Muri, each roughly the size of a carriage. They were covered in feathers of various shades of brown. Their beaks were yellow, sharp, and menacing. Their eyes were shades of yellow, and their beady black irises focused on them intently. "If you had perished from such a light attack, we would have sought you out for nothing."
"Of course, he would prove worthy." The similarly high-pitched voice of the second chimed in. "We sought him out specifically due to his lineage. The Crows seem to speak of their summoner well after all."
Sasuke calculated the risk of engaging with the birds. It was clear they were fast, and their attacks proved to be wide-ranging. However, he was somewhat interested and confident he could slay the two if less than honest.
"If you wish to speak to me, you must do so as we travel." Sasuke bluntly explained. "I have places to be and no time to waste."
The hawks seemed to discuss this amongst themselves. "Anything you know of the hawks, Muri?" Sasuke asked as they did so.
"A powerful nomadic clan currently residing throughout the Irminsul Biomes. They're not allied with us or much else but have a tentative alliance with the Crows. They also rarely interact with other clans anyway, besides hunting, of course. They are a small but well-respected and feared clan." Muri explained.
"I see," Sasuke said with a nod.
"That will work for us human!" The left hawk exclaimed. "Let us go to ask you what we came for."
"Let's, Muri, continue on. Be prepared to move to safety if they try anything," Sasuke loudly declared as the four raced through the sky. "So, you have heard of the Uchiha Clan?"
"Indeed, our brethren, the Crows speak of their own summoner being a fine summoner. We seek the same in you." The hawk explained as they flew through the sky.
'Crows… didn't Itachi have a summoning contract with them? I wonder if they have information about him; if they do, they could confirm whether or not he's truly dead. Assuming he isn't, I have my first real lead toward the Uchiha Coop. But if he is I still have a lead; their words suggested the summoner was still alive…' Sasuke inwardly reasoned.
"Why should I ally with you?" Sasuke asked as he continued to ponder the information revealed. 'Brother… you haven't left my mind since your disappearance. Are you alive? If so, why not let me know? If not, why would someone have your summoning contract? No, I must focus on the here and now. These birds may contain a clue, but I can't sign for them just for that.'
"Our little surprise attack already showed our speed and power. We offer the best travel available, access to unique jutsu at our disposal, and the ability to call us and our leaders as you prove yourself. However, we will require your services as a summoner as well." The same hawk replied. It was the leader of the two.
"You attacked with the advantage of home turf and ambush and barely managed to trouble, let alone harm me," Sasuke replied with a raised brow. However, all four were silenced as a loud buzz sounded. The group looked ahead to notice a swarm of giant mosquitoes approaching. Sasuke smiled. The opportunity to test his new potential allies had just shown itself.
"If you wish to earn me as a summoner, I'm not opposed; however, you must safely escort my ally and me to our destination."
The hawks eyed the mosquitoes hungrily. "Fine with me; I was feeling peckish anyway!" they cried in unison, flying forward to the swarm. "Hawk Swoop!" Both cried as they shot off, causing a massive gust of wind. They were covered in visible air as they began to smash through the hive bodily. The mosquitoes could scarcely react as the living missiles easily carved through the swarm.
"Impressive, but they'll begin to rally if they don't take out more soon." Sasuke lamented. "Interesting to see if they can think of a counter."
The hawks suddenly stopped in the swarm's center and began to spin again as they had earlier. However, instead of mere feathers flying out, blades of wind did. Each slicing through the swarm in each direction, nearly killing two-thirds of it with the attack. However, the remaining mosquitoes finally caught on. The last ones are launching toward the blur of Hawks' proboscis first. But the hawks continued to move, launching another volley of feathers and wind blades, which left some of the survivors cut to pieces, and the others were left littered with deeply embedded feathers in their corpses.
"Hmm, it'll do." Sasuke decided as he watched with piqued interest.
"Everywhere you go, you leave carnage…" Muri remarked as the four left behind the corpses of mosquitoes to fall into the snowy peaks below. "Can we at least ride them so I can get a break?"
"Sure." Sasuke agreed when the hawks arrived. Muri detransformed as Sasuke carried both others to the back of the others. "Alright, I'll become your summoner, Hawks. First, I'll need your name and the clan name. However, we'll do the official signing tomorrow. Today, we shall arrive with my other allies, and we can hash out the exact details. Sounds fair?"
"I am Crushing Talons." The leader of the two answered.
"I am Scanning Eyes." The other answered as well.
"Once we do settle things, you will become the summoner of the Taka Clan!" Crushing Talons cried as the four flew off into the sky. Quickly leaving the snowy lands of North Irminsul behind. (4)
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Suzumebachi’s POV (Western River Plains of Irminsul - Terra)
Suzumebachi wasn't often one free from the burden of stress. In fact, in her supposedly thus far short life, she had been one that seemed to live in stress. The Stone Village wasn't in the most fantastic position, and worse yet, in their fall, the Kamizuru had fallen as well. Which led to the negative spirit that lingered around the Stone. Resentment, regret, hatred, despair, it clung to the very air. It affected the shinobi the worst however, for those who hoped to serve and defend it filled them with shame and anger. It had been the desire to redeem their clan and the home village that she had gone on her training trip. Mastered the new style she used, and grew her skill to ensure she was the beast. Her grind had been rewarded, it had revealed to her the use of Kinjutsu of her clan, one that allowed her to surpass her limits. To be a threat to any living being…
It had been straightforward to her that she needed to step up once she arrived home. In her somewhat long trip, the village had suffered even more, her clan even greater still with the abandonment of their own former leader. The very man who had made Kamizuru what they had formerly been. Ren Kamizuru, left the clan once it became clear it was set to crumble. The Kamizuru needed a new leader, one with the ambition and power to do what was needed. So the first thing she did was challenge her brother to a public spar for the position of leader of the Clan. An old tradition would give her the influence to usurp him, and the desperate Kamizuru members would cling to a new hope. It had worked as she predicted when she had bested him with ease…
It was known to her that the idea of usurping one's own brother was considered cold. That one’s blood was one of the few things that were sacred. But they had never truly been close; in fact, Kurobachi had always seemed to despise her, something she was sure was only due to the fact that she was a woman. Which helped negate the guilt of crushing and betraying her older brother. She could remember the cold stony fury his eyes held when she bested him. Jibachi, the runt of the three, had openly sneered as well. It seemed Kurobachi had won him over fully. But soon their hatred mattered little. She was elected the new Clan Head. Suzumebachi had been overjoyed, she just knew things were set to turn around.
Though to her lament, it had only further exposed the deeply ingrained problems of her home. Despite their new leader and her newly earned status of elite Jounin, the Kamizuru Clan was still considered besmirched. And with the lack of warfare present she had little chance to truly prove herself. Even succeeding on the most difficult missions did little. And the Stone was not healing but stagnating. It became clear to Suzumebachi something drastic was needed.
It nearly drove her mad when an odd letter was sent to their Clan Home. A letter written by an international criminal under the name of Ikam Uzumaki. She had heard of his deeds during the exams, including the apparent assassination of an Iron higher-up. But all the same, the man had not struck at the Stone, and his proposal had been enjoyable. With the possible ability to gain not just a better summoning contract but multiple her choice had been clear. The Kamizuru would arise and save the Stone. She would see to it personally…
All of that had led her to now. Suzumebachi regretted ever meeting with the man. They had been prepared for difficulties, a foreign land could cause all sorts of dangers. But Irminsul had proved not only dangerous but filled with one of their most hated enemies, The Leaf. Suzumebachi had even fought one and nearly damaged a target and killed a Leaf Genin. Only to be embarrassed and saved by her employers. She had already lost a stronger member of her clan in Jabachi. While an idiot and certainly not the most exceptional shinobi, with morale at an all time low he was the best they had to offer. It seemed Kurobachi had gone rogue, been kidnapped, or was lost. Somehow his tracking seal was somehow removed. Which Mishiro had thought all but impossible for anyone other than a Fuijutsu master. This mission was going terribly thus far.
But all the same, Suzumebachi was confident things would work out nicely. While she hated the Uzumaki’s they were powerful, and despite their wanted status seemed to move fearlessly. If she just managed to win them over and get what she was promised she knew it would lead to good things. Today that bitch Mishiro had decided to move forward with their decided plan. They needed extra manpower with the loss of Jibachi and Kurobachi and the unexpected presence of shinobi they needed the insurance. And since they had planned to control nearby valuable clans anyways it was best to kill two birds with one stone. The increased presence of opposition insisted the accelerate the plan all the same.
The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
With that Mishiro’s plan had been deceptively simple. They would use one clan to garner the others. Suzumebachi still had her contract with the wasp Clan. They could use them to detain other creatures for their own use. The only problem Suzumebachi could see was the attitude of the clan she was contracted to. They had only served her with a mutually beneficial relationship in mind and usually only offered their most diminutive soldiers for combat. They likely would not agree to risk their own just to aid her on short notice. She just couldn’t see how they would get them on board. Even if Suzumebachi was to try to force them, they were immune to the sting technique unlike herself.
But Mishiro was unconcerned and demanded she summon the clan leader regardless, promising they would be able to soothe them. And she would be able to convince them with ease. Her confidence eventually won over Suzumebachi.
"Alright, I'll be pretty exhausted after summoning the Queen. She's chakra costly and may very well decide to attack us if particularly offended by my sudden use of her. The two of you may very well need to defend yourselves. But do not hurt the Queen, if you do I promise I will kill you both." Suzumebachi explained. (5)
"It won't be of any true concern, both the Queen and your threat." Leifazu said casually, though Suzumebachi couldn't help but notice she was directly behind her. Did the psycho woman intend to use her as a human shield!
"Just summon the queen," Mishiro impatiently snapped. "Even if the bug acts out, it is well within my power to bring it to heel. And I obviously need its help, harming would doubtless be ineffective towards such."
"It's not a bug; wasps are apex predators capable of hunting down an absurd number of prey per wasp! Furthermore, you are not to hurt her! Even if we find a replacement Clan, I intend to keep ties with the wasp personally. They are invaluable to both me and the Kamizuru Clan." Suzumebachi snapped at the two of them.
"Come now, little girl, there is no need to fret." Mishiro chided with narrowed eyes. "We need her alive, I don't gain anything from killing her. Besides, do you truly wish to earn my ire?"
Suzumebachi and Mishiro locked eyes in a subtle battle of wills. However, Suzumebachi was surprised by how easily Mishiro overwhelmed her. The woman's eyes seemed awfully vast and cold as if they were portals to the deep, dark depths of the ocean. Suzumebachi swallowed her shame as she moved her gaze on.
"Fine, give me space; it'll take roughly a minute to set up the matrix. Be ready; the Queen is dangerous and shockingly quick." Suzumebachi felt a small part of her wishing the Queen would manage to kill the two of them. Initially, the offer had been more than fine for the mission. Now, it was clear this mission was one that was much more dangerous than they had thought. It had even cost her kin, even if they weren't, particularly the ones she was fond of. If the Queen had managed to kill the two of them, Suzumebachi would have been free from their mighty grasp. It would allow her to simply either retreat or gain something and then do so. A shame for certain considering the possibilities, but a shame she could live with.
With that in mind, dutifully, she marched away from camp and pulled and unfurled a scroll from her robes. With a flourish, she unrolled it with ease, instantly causing a writhing line of Fuijutsu to slowly form a matrix around the scroll. A massive hexagon of kanji that seemed to be burned into the ground to be created. This was a more complex and dull process than normal summoning. But no one in the Kamizuru could summon the Queen without it, it was only through years of study they had created a summoning matrix that gave the necessary chakra and control to manage such.
"Summoning Jutsu: Sacred Queen of the Wasp!" Suzumebachi roared as she pulled a kunai out and slashed her palm; she allowed the blood to flow into the scroll, the kanji and blood glowing bright red. A DNA sample was required as well, and a decent one. It became hard to look at as it shined brighter still, but soon poofed into a massive cloud of smoke. A large creature’s shadow was visible within.
Suzumebachi, Leifazu, and Mishiro leaped back as the massive wasp appeared from the cloud of smoke. Suzumebachi knew the Queen was not quite as large as other clan bosses, but its fearsome presence made up for it. And it still was larger than any insect was meant to be.
It looked like the wasp she had summoned against Lee, but larger and with bolder colors. Its massive black eyes shifted around wildly. Tufts of thick hair stood up throughout its body, twitching with its breaths. Its mandibles audibly clicked as it scanned its surroundings. The giant wasp began to hover slowly, its enormous wings sending wind throughout the area.
“Suzumebachi Kamizuru. The current Head of the allied Kamizuru Clan. As per our agreement, you may summon me once yearly if needed. Though I must warn you, if you summoned me for naught or for peril, I will feast on you and your friends…" The Queen warned as it focused on Suzumebachi.
"Actually, you're speaking to the wrong person." Mishiro haughtily intervened, shoving Suzumebachi back as she faced the wasp directly. "Leifazu, if you would…"
Suzumebachi flinched as she felt a presence behind her. Slender arms snaked under hers. They were small yet seemed to easily force both arms above her head. She struggled, but the grip was ironclad Leifazu seemingly unaffected by her struggle.
"Are you sure your clan is the professionals you claimed?" Leifazu teasingly whispered into her ear. "Summoning one of your best assets at our behest when you know you can't trust us, yet alone stop us? We didn't just ask for reinforcements; we also intended to gain further leverage. Step out of line, and it won't be only you but your whole clan that suffers…"
"You said you wouldn't harm her!" Suzumebachi roared as they thrashed wildly, attempting to escape Leifazu's grip.
"Harm? So you truly did set me up human. Once I finish killing all of you, I will sever our contract with the wasp and Kamizuru." The Queen spoke. "First, the one arrogant enough to face me directly!"
Suzumebachi was sure she had never seen the Queen strike so fast. It was sure she was furious and, unlike its size would suggest, it moved with the insane speed and grace wasps were capable of. In a mere second, it thrust its massive stinger at Mishiro. A blow that even the Jounin would perish from…
But the woman did not even flinch; she merely managed to draw her blade instantly and deflected the stinger with a mere stroke. The Queen roared in fury as the mere parry sent it careening in a spiral. "Uzumaki Style: Deflecting Draw." She then calmly sheathed her blade and extended her arms out as if meaning to embrace the wasps. With a burst of chakra, Suzumebachi watched in awe as a litany of chains burst from her back. They were massive and glowed a deep dark red. They seemed to writhe in the air, seemingly with a mind of their own. "Uzumaki Style: Scarlet Restraint!"
Her next jutsu activated while Mishiro stood completely still. She remained still as the chains grew in both numbers and quickly wrapped around the stunned Queen. Covering her face, wings, legs, each part of her in an impossible grip. She roared in fury and pain as the chains wrapped promptly around it in multiple layers. Restraining the Queen an instant and grounding with a mighty crash.
"You bitch!" Suzumebachi roared. "I can't betray you anyway! Leave the damn Queen alone; you were supposed to convince her!"
She used her flexibility to kick backward into Leifazu. But she couldn't manage to garner enough force with her position. Leifazu merely laughed as she somehow managed to lift her from her feet. How strong was this woman!
"Now, I am doing just that," Mishiro chided. I just want her to sit still." The Uzumaki marched forward, snapping her fingers. The chains moved at such and dragged the Queen so it faced her directly.
"I will never bend to your will. My hive will die before I allow such." The Queen hatefully spat at her.
Mishiro ignored the wasp as she removed a blank scroll from her robe. She quickly managed to create a seal by hand with great precision. And once she did so, she managed to engrave it onto her palm as she drew close. All of which occurred as Suzumebachi watched on in horror.
"THE WASPS REMAIN DE-" Before the Queen could finish, Mishiro placed her palm upon the head of the Clan Boss. Once again Mishiro ensnared the wasp, this time with glowing kanji. The newly created seal began to glow and sizzle upon the wasp, which shrieked and writhed in pain.
"Silence, minion." Mishiro spat at the creature. "This seal I have given you will give you this same pain you feel now if you ever defy me. Within minutes, it will kill you, but only after it shatters your mind. It only makes sense; all intelligent life suffers from knowing what pain truly means."
It continued to scream in pain seemingly heedless of anything else.
Suzumebachi roared in fury but was helpless to do anything. If she had chakra, she could have forced the psycho to let her go, but the summoning left her nearly empty! (6)
It finally quit as the seal stopped glowing, though the kanji remained visible throughout its body. The creature pitifully whined as it ceased resisting against the chains.
"It seems you understand…" Mishiro said simply. "Suzumebachi, I hope you do as well. This contracted mission of ours won't end here. I intend to use you and your clan to its fullest potential…"
Leifazu released her as she watched on in horror as Mishiro withdrew the chains. The Queen did not even attempt to rise; Suzumebachi did the same. Both realized there was no out for them…
“It seems I was wrong earlier Suzumebachi, harming it was efficient after all… Now my newest soldier… call your kin to me… I have a new task for your clan…” Mishiro whispered darkly.
The Queen did not hesitate crying out and raising its body back into the air. Its screech echoed in the air around them.
Suzumebachi watched in shock as its cry was visibly answered. The sky darkened as a dark cloud of buzzing wasps arrived. They were varying in sizes and power powers, but they led around their Queen all the same.
“These wasps will detain and bring back any summoning creature they can; even humans are on the lists." Mishiro sighted with a giant smile. "We have other matters to attend to while they do…"
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Sakura’s POV (Eastern Forest of Irminsul - Terra)
As the remaining ants saw them they retreated into the cave. Sakura and Shino racing forward to intercept this new threat themselves. Even as he sprinted forward, Shino allowed dozens of his allies into the air, most of which were racing toward the beast. To both of their shock, however, the beast, with a mere lunge, closed the distance between them. It hissed as it attempted to smash them both with its muscular arms. Sakura barely slid under the blow, while Shino only managed to raise his guard before being swatted into stone. Luckily, it revealed it was an insect clone; the insects quickly raced forward and completely covered the creature; however, it merely twitched as several tendrils burst from its body and whipped through the air with speed, managing to smash the insects near instantly. Almost fully freeing the creature from Shino’s attack.
Sakura spun with momentum of her slide, launching two explosive tag kunai at the beast, which exploded with a small controlled explosion, managing to stumble the beast. Shino appeared behind it, now ungloved, and quickly launched a barrage of left-handed jabs before leaping back as the tendrils lashed at him. The two stood united as the beast rose and stared them down.
"That thing shrugs off explosives like nothing. Why'd you think your punches would be any different?" Sakura asked as she activated her chakra scalpels again.
Shino merely raised his dark purple hand. "I recently gained a gift from a relative of mine. Someone I had long thought dead, the gift in question is a microscopic parasitic insect that deletes living tissue on a cellular level. This fight has already-" Shino did not finish as the beast lashed with its tendrils, sending a literal wall of stingers flying toward them. Sakura flinched. Luckily, Shino, with a hand sign and stomp, raised a wall of earth to tank the attack.
“Parasitic Insects that consume on a cellular level?!” Sakura asked, “Why does everyone have such absurd abilities?!”
“Because we’re cool.” Shino answered smugly. However the impact from the stingers shook the ground and shattered the wall. Showering them both in debris, there was no time to recover as the giant suddenly appeared and swatted them both away with a single strike. (7)
Sakura cried out in pain as she and Shino flew through the air, a tangled mess of limbs. Both desperately had to keep their hands away from each other during the flight and, as such, prepared no landing strategy and impacted the ground roughly.
Sakura quickly kicked Shino off and out of the way of danger. The beast narrowly missed them as it crashed and landed where they had been standing. The creature roared at her and raised a massive fist to smash her. Luckily, the ground broke beneath it, causing the blow to miss.
"Sakura, get some distance!" Shino cried, having landed, and immediately used a basic earth jutsu to save her. However, Sakura had a different plan; flooding her muscles with chakra, she raced forward and grabbed an arm of the creature. Stunned, its tendrils couldn't quite reach her as she managed to lift it above her head. Sakura roared as she flung it away from her into a tree, breaking it in half. "Earth Style: Stone Launch Pad!" Shino cried; the ground beneath the creature became a flat plate, which launched it across the clearing and through several trees. Surely even it would at least be hurt by that.
Sakura gasped as she caught her breath. The blow earlier fractured a rib; with a glow, she began using medical chakra to heal quickly. Another blow would undoubtedly break it, but she would be good to keep fighting for now. Shino, next to her, also looked somewhat worn; a cut on his forehead had blood flowing down the left side of his face, and the right lens for his sunglasses was cracked, revealing one eye. (8)
"It's fast, powerful, and difficult to predict!" Sakura said with a grimace. "How long before the insects take effect?."
"They should have already," Shino answered with a frown. "The fact that it didn't suggest its armor is somehow resistant. Is it not living tissue?"
"An animal with nonliving armor? That's not exactly the norm… unless it is human-"
"ABURAME!" The creature roared with a double-layered, broken, and harsh voice. "KILL ABURAME!" It was still a distance away but was clearly racing back to them.
"Can it speak?!" Sakura cried out in shock. "Wait that voice, is that the man from before…"
"It matters little; we must assume it's immune to my technique," Shino said while putting back on his glove for his left hand. "Do you think your chakra scalpels can pierce it?"
"Safe to assume, living or nonliving, they cut through materials regardless of their durability. With its size, it'll probably take a couple of hits. If that's not enough, my new technique will surely do it." Sakura explained as she prepared herself. "Can you make an opening?"
"Yes, my allies are working on draining him, though it's only a small number due to its tendrils. And my earth style should allow me to control the battle. Hit and run; I'll cover you." Shino assured the group as he prepared to unleash more earthly style.
The creature came back into the clearing to the home of the Antuni Clan. Roaring in mindless anger, but it did not seem hurt from its flight. Shino answered its rage with calm indifference. "Earth Style: Gia's Canon." A large clump of stone shot from the ground and smashed into the creature's head, making it stumble back.
Sakura didn't bother answering herself, merely racing forward, throwing several kunai as she did. As expected, the beast's tendrils deflected each with ease, but it left them dealt with as Sakura moved close; she raced past the extended ones as the beast roared and swung wildly with another punch. Now prepared for its shocking speed, she managed to weave past it again and slashed with her chakra scalpel at its shoulder. It screamed in pain as Sakura leaped above its head. The beast's tendrils writhed as they prepared to spear her, but suddenly, a box made of stone formed around it, trapping it for a moment. Though a mere flex from the beast shattered its constraint, it allowed Sakura the opening to slash both shoulders with both of her hands. Sakura landed on its chest as it cried out and used it to launch herself back, narrowly avoiding a beheading bite from its mandibles.
Sakura deactivated one chakra scalpel, landing with a roll drawing a kunai and racing forward yet again, determined to stay on offense and maintain her advantage. The tendrils shot off more stingers, but Sakura skillfully weaved and deflected her way through, managing to slice off two tendrils as she did. The beast however, suddenly kicked her back. The blow caused Sakura to spit out blood and slide back, but with a determined grimace, she raced forward all the same. Luckily, a short burst of earth rising via Shino tripped the beast, knocking it to the ground as Sakura closed in.
"Earth Style: Piercing Formation!" Shino cried out, and a sudden barrage of spikes stabbed through its tendrils, tearing them asunder before quickly crumbling away so Sakura could strike the now defenseless Kurobachi.
Sakura did not waste the moment sliding along the creature. Her chakra scalpel cut into its back mercilessly with several strikes, and Sakura finished the barrage with a slash at its ankles as well. Before she leaped away, Kurobachi tried to stand before a spike of earth formed and stabbed into its chest. Knocking it flat on its back.
The creature rolled over and attempted to stand but fell to its knees, crying in pain all the while. Sakura and Shino regrouped and prepared to go back in, but both were shocked as two giant ants raced from the cave, seeking to take advantage of Kurobachi’s moment of weakness. Both used their massive mandibles to attempt to crush the beast. But both of their mandibles shattered against its armor in a gory display; the beast struck out with its hand, clutching both by the face and smashing them into each other in front of it. With a desperate and greedy lunge, it bit into both, quickly and savagely, tearing chunks from the two ants and swallowing them. The two watched in stunned shock as it quickly feasted upon the ants. Merely managing to wholly consume their heads by the time it was done.
"This is strange," Shino concluded as the two felt a burst of chakra race from the creature as its chakra nearly doubled. Its tendrils burst from its back yet again. "If this is Kurobachi, he wasn't nearly so formidable nor monstrous. And he seems to gain power from his victims…"
"It's like he's becoming some sort of insect hybrid…" Sakura said in horror.
"They had been whispers of a technique that allowed the user to become a beast…" Shino said worriedly. "I suppose this is proof of such. Though it seemed to have regained health and chakra by eating… I'll have my allies warn the ants to let us handle it." Shino said. "Sakura, you mentioned a technique earlier. Would it be capable of doing enough damage to put it down at once?"
"It should be, it managed to scare off a summon boss, but I'm still perfecting it. To use it safely, I'll need time to channel it. Furthermore, it takes a lot of my focus; I'll need time and an opening. Can you give me about thirty seconds and a chance?" Sakura asked hesitantly.
"Indeed." Shino agreed before charging the beast fearlessly. Sakura could only watch as she flexed and melded her chakra into her right hand.
Shino charged forward, weaving hand signs for a jutsu. "Earth Style: Earth Gauntlet!" Quickly, two massive fist-shaped gauntlets covered both his hands.
"KILL ABURAME!" Kurobachi roared in fury, his intelligence seeming to break free through hatred. (9)
Shino offered a simple, merely aiming a gauntlet at its face and uttering. "Earth Projectile." The gauntlet flew into Kurobachi's face, managing to shatter but stun him. Shino raced in, but Kurobachi managed to launch his tendrils at him even when stunned. But Shino merely used his gauntlet of chakra-hardened earth to swat them aside with ease; he spun with the momentum and smashed the gauntlet into Kurobachi's face. He heard the sick sound of his gauntlet crushing Kurobachi's eye. Blood flew as the somewhat human man stumbled back. Shino offered no rest for him; however, as an explosive tag struck its face ignited, the small explosion did no damage but made him stumble back into a newly created earth wall. "Thirty Seconds have passed. This battle is over." Shino said calmly.
Sakura arrived just in time, her fist glowing as she flew through the air. She smashed through the wall bodily using her momentary strength. "Nerve Impact!" Sakura cried as she smashed into the back of Kurobachi's head. Headless of the armor her fist smashed through sending pain racing down her arm. All the same Sakura could feel her chakra invading his body and attacking his nervous system directly. She had managed to perfect her technique! A blow, nothing should be able to survive. "Suffer, you sexist dick!" Sakura roared as Kurobachi was sent flying across the clearing and skidding violently across the ground. Before becoming at a rest at the edge of clearing bloodied, but still moving.
Kurobachi cried out in anguish, bleeding from the wound on his head and crushed eye. It pitifully climbed to its feet, clearly somewhat drained and injured. It roared in fury however, and as it did so its chakra level grew and it seemed to stand straighter. But with a burst of chakra, blurred forward, appearing before the off guard and tired Sakura and Shino. They were wide open!
"Wild Youth Rampage!"
"Air Palm Volley!"
The barrage of air-based chakra blows sent Kurobachi flying back and careening to the ground. A fresh Lee and Hintata appeared and stood with their allies.
"It seems this foe is quite the unyouthful one." Lee decided with a frown.
"To attack and kill these fine ants for no reason is unforgivable. Harming my friends is even more so…"
"I'm sorry we arrived late. It seems this foe has given you some problems." Hinata said as her Byakugan focused on the now-standing Kurobachi. "Is that thing human? Its body is similar to ours, but…"
"It seems to be the same Kurobachi Kamizuru that attacked me earlier. He has used some sort of technique to transform. One that, based on what it consumes, gains strengths and unique biological traits." Shino explained. (10)
"He also can seemingly heal now and can take quite the beating; his nervous system is in disarray,he’s down an eye. And now has quite the chest wound. The pain alone should drive him unconscious.
"Seems to have only made it angrier somehow. What's the strategy then?" Hinata asked as the four dropped into combat stances as the creature prepared to charge them.
"Attack it as one, keep assaults quick and noncommittal. Try to breach its armor with pure force as much as possible. Sakura and Hinata, you two engage directly with my support, Lee. If you have an opening, can you break its armor? Preferably around the chest where it seems densest? My assumption is his organs are still vulnerable considering Sakura’s attacks and the need for thick armor at all.” Shino commanded the group grimly.
"YOSH! If only used for a moment, I can open another gate! It should allow me the power necessary to shatter its armor! My youth will leave it defenseless!" Lee answered.
"Excellent. Once he does so, I can finish it off if fails to." Shino agreed.
Lee kicked back to charge chakra as Sakura and Hinata raced forward to meet Kurobachi's charge. Kurobachi launched another mass of stingers; however, Hinata was fearless and cartwheeled towards them.
"Hebunrīsō!" She cried as chakra formed around her and smashed through the stingers, Sakura racing behind Hinata to escape the attack as well. Kurobachi attempted to block using his new tendrils, but Hinata cut through them with ease, allowing her to smash into and send the creature flying back.
Sakura chased after it wildly, slashing with her chakra scalpels. She knew from before only overwhelming offense could keep it suppressed. However, Kurobachi roared in pain as he managed to snag her arm and whip her up into the air, preparing to slam her down. Sakura flinched before an earth spike stabbed into Kurobachi's arm, failing to pierce it but forcing him to release her. Sakura landed and backtracked as Hinata dashed close in and cried out again, "Kaiten!" Quickly the chakra dome of the Hyuga appeared and smashed the creature back.
"I'M READY!" Lee cried out as his body seemed to burst with chakra, his own rivaling Kurobachi in potency. "Third Gate Open! Youthful Aura: Life Awakening!" Lee's skin turned red, and an aura of chakra opened around him. His pupils even disappeared, and veins bulged on his skin as he prepared his assault. Lee did not race to the fight in this new form; it was as if he had instantly appeared in front of Kurobachi. The monstrous man not even having time to flinch as Lee threw his attack.
"Youthful Blow: Dragon Fang!" Lee cried as threw a punch the others could scarcely see; his entire arm was coated in blue chakra, and he looked almost like it was its giant fang. He launched the blow into Kurobachi's midsection, shattering the armor with ease, crushing bones, and even splitting the skin. The powerful blow was aimed downwards, driving the partial beast-man into the ground, and embedding it with ease. The ground crumbled around them as it somewhat shattered under the force of the blow.
"Lee…" Sakura said in shock. "He was always strong, but this…"
"If this Lee had been in the exams…” Hinata trailed off. “They may have gone very differently. He may be as strong as Naruto or Sasuke." Hinata agreed. "It seems this is over-"
Hinata was cut off, however, as the beast suddenly stood and grabbed Lee by the throat. Lee reacted striking with powerful blows that cracked its armor. But Kurobachi did not flinch as he strangled Lee. A lethal amount of blood flowed from the wound, but despite it, Kurobachi stood firm. Before either could race to help Lee, he managed to kick the arm and finally free himself. Lee walked backwards to dodge a sluggish blow from the dying man. But before he could struggle in earnest Shino appeared at ease with the intense combat, he dodged a slow blow and calmly placed his now exposed and lethal left hand on the exposed inner skin of Kurobachi.
As soon as Shino made contact with the abomination, he froze; perhaps whatever remained of his humanity had broken through when faced with this foe and his all too familiar lethal technique. "Damned Aburame." It cursed bitterly. “Once again you seek to destroy the Kamizuru Clan. I have failed…”
"Our combat before was just. Our homes battling to destroy each other, our clashes and the blood spilled were expected. It was merely two clans doing their expected duty. I know we Aburame never specifically wished to destroy the Kamizuru. Nor do I suspect you clan intended specifically to destroy my clan back then. But we had no wish to crush you specifically. Our techniques in battle merely led to such." Shino lectured as the beast and him stared eye to eye.
"Wanted revenge. But now I will die…" Kurobachi bitterly said. His voice had become lighter and his movements more random. It seemed the shock had settled in from his state.
"Aye," Shino coldly agreed. "Without that pesky armor, my allies can finally feast. They will burrow throughout your body, consuming your organs and even bones. Not even a single cell will survive their gluttony. For attempting to harm me and my friends, you will suffer a painful but quick death." Shino spat. "I had no hopes to crush you a lot, but you learned not from the past. We Aburame are no hatred-filled killers, but when pushed, we will do what is necessary…"
Kurobachi offered no response as he nearly folded in two as his midsection had already been mostly consumed. Sakura, Hinata, and Lee averted their eyes from the gruesome sight. But, ever practical and careful, Shino merely watched as Kurobachi died, as if ready for him to rise again.
But Kurobachi did not, the man died as he lived, a gruesome monster.
"I'm sorry that happened too roughly." Shino apologized to the others once it was over. "I needed to be certain he would stay down… We need to get our wounds treated and prepare to search for the day-"
"No way!" Sakura objected fiercely. "I am injured and barely at half my reserves. You are also, and the gates are famed for their impact on the human body! We will rest for the day and continue tomorrow! We may very well need us at our best."
Hinata glanced around before hesitantly nodding and agreeing with Sakura. “I do not like it either, but after this fight we are not at full strength.”
"Actually, my new Ninshu helps with such; I will merely be in crippling pain for the next twelve hours!" Lee assured with a nice guy pose. Sakura merely rolled her eyes before walking over and poking Lee. The man cried out in pain and collapsed.
"See my point?" Sakura asked Shino with a raised brow. “The one person on your side can barely stand.”
Shino sighed in frustration. He did not like being unable to find Choji or Yuno, but his father had taught him to keep his head even in peril. "I suppose so…" As he finished speaking, the ants flowed from the cave, quickly checking out Kurobachi's corpse and dragging it into the cave. Others grabbed dead ants, and a couple of seemingly more important clan members came to them. Shino and others walked to meet them. At the very least another threat had been dealt with…
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Ren Kamizuru’s POV (Outskirts of the Land of Wind)
Dignitary work wasn’t new to Ren. In his long career, he had often been used as such; he was a unique case. A veteran shinobi who had leveraged his influence to become a lead politician of the Stone. With the merits of both he had quickly climbed the ladder of the Stone. But all the same, Ren was not pleased to be used this way. It was risky and demeaning work, and, not to mention, his travel was less than stellar in his growing age. His gray and brown hair was matted with sweat, and while the two Anbu with him were fresh, they had to go at his speed. All the same, the trio had managed to arrive outside of the Land of Wind in a mere twelve hours. Ren only suffered this mission to ensure his credibility did not take a hit. Besides, he wanted to ensure Onoki made the right choice…
The group was now taking a break and resting, Ren, in particular, going over his plan in his head. He supposed that Onoki, the old fool, had been correct, if not heartless to send him. They needed to position themselves as strong even while asking for help. As the former leader of a failing Clan, Ren had experience with that very task. Combine that with his considerable power, and he had been an ideal candidate. One that even if he did die would not cost them greatly.
Their plan had been decided by him, of course. It never was truly as simple to meet with a Kage. The Anbu, while certainly wise and knowledgeable, indeed weren’t more so than him and knew to listen to his word. Ren doubted their ability to infiltrate and meet with Rasa that way. So, it became clear the move would be an upfront approach. Ren planned to arrive in the desert near Suna and signal to get the attention of a scouting group of the Sand. Then Ren would use his silver tongue to convince them to give them an audience. Though likely, they wouldn’t dare ignore a message from a rival. It was full proof!
The Anbu signaled for them to continue much to Ren’s charigan, but he continued on. He wanted to get this over with and return home with more glory for his name. The idea of finally crushing the Leaf amused Ren to no end. He could scarcely think for the excitement! They marched through the desert in the middle of a blasted sandstorm. The wind harshly whipped the sand into their skin, and it seemed to actively crawl into Ren’s clothes. He swore he would ensure the destruction of Suna in the future if for nothing else than the blasted land they called home.
Finally, the group drew close to Suna, but as they did, the storm seemed to intensify. Soon, the group could barely walk as they marched through it all. Their vision of the distance in front of them disappeared, as sand was all they could see. But soon, three shapes stood out from the sand. They seemed human and were watching them from deep within the storm.
Ren attempted to call out but would not risk opening his mouth. But soon, his wish was acknowledged as the figure in the center of the three waved his hand. In an instant, the storm stopped. Sand froze in place before splitting up into two groups on either side of the three Stone men. Soon, they formed two massive dunes of sand on their right and left, somehow ending the storm.
The three were from the Sand and seemed to be three Chunin. They were floating upon a platform of sand, and they were unmistakable to Ren, someone who had been in this game so long.
“Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro of the Sand. The famed Sand Trio and supposed future aces of your homeland. I have heard many tales of you three…” Ren started. “I am honored to stand before you…”
The two older siblings did not speak; they watched as Gaara focused on Ren.
“Two Anbu and Jounin from the Land of Stone,” Gaara said with a small smile. “Quite the party to find creeping around our borders.”
“We are here on important business,” Ren answered honestly. “We seek an audience with the Kazekage, if not him, at least the Jounin Commander Baki of the Sand. Both of which you happen to have a connection to Gaara…”
“Why do you seek the counsel of the Sand?” Temari chimed in. “We’ve never been all that close to our neighbors.”
“You won’t like how things go if we don’t like your answer.” Kankuro agreed with a grim nod.
Ren frowned at the questions. It would be risky to tell them his intention. He needed to speak to Rasa or Baki directly. The more people heard, the more likely the intention of this mission would be to leak. “I cannot just tell you, I’m afraid. This information is of a sensitive nature. I’m sure you understand.”
“I do not,” Gaara answered simply. “You seek an audience with my father and expect me not to know why? I am the son of Rasa of the Sand and future Kazekage of the Sand. I will have an answer, or else I will turn you away myself…”
Ren growled to himself as the Anbu tensed, prepared to defend themselves. But he had seen the exams with his own eyes. Gaara of the Sand may be near Chunin, but even most Jounin would be helpless. Taking him was possible with two Anbu and himself, but it would be detrimental to their mission. He would have to risk telling him…
But the son of the Kazekage would surely be discreet. Furthermore, if he managed to gain his support, it would undoubtedly increase their favor with the Kazekage. It would have to be a risk to be taken.
“Fair enough, son, my name is Ren Kamizuru of the Stone. I have been sent by Onoki of the Scales, the Tsuchikage of our home. He has sent me here to seek the aid of the Sand for a potential mutually beneficial endeavor-
“Of the Kamizuru, you say?” Gaara asked innocently. “Brother, isn’t the clan shamed during the last war?”
“One in the same.” Kankuro said with a smirk. “We’re smacked around by the Aburame.”
“A weak clan.” Temari agreed, sounding pleased to snipe at the man before them.
Ren bit back on his anger and laughed out as if amused. “Yes, my family has fallen quite a bit over the years, but that has nothing to do with our proposal. You’ll want to hear us out…”
“Hmm, I suppose so,” Gaara agreed with a shrug. My father did ask me to scout the border, so it’s only fitting that I screen who enters my home.”
“As I said, we are here for an offer of not only an alliance but an endeavor from which we would benefit greatly.” Ren began. “See, we have gained information regarding the Leaf; their jinchuriki one, Naruto Uzumaki, is missing. Furthermore, after your impressive battle with him, they have seen a boon of business, while your rampage has been the opposite. But if the Leaf is missing its greatest weapon, a solution for both our villages has shown itself. See if we were to move against the Leaf-”
“So Naruto Uzumaki is missing?” Gaara said, amused with a raised brow.
“I am certain he is not dead, but I see why that would lead to this proposal.” As soon as Gaara finished his words, Ren flinched as Sand suddenly surrounded him and restrained him, his body stuck in a sand ball with only his head stuck out. The Anbu attempted to react, but one suddenly froze as if stuck in place, and the other was sent flying by a gust of wind. Before either could counter or recover, they were detained by sand. All three float up into the air to face Gaara and his siblings. The older sister smiled cruelly as she stood on a giant fan, the older brother chuckling openly at them.
“What is the meaning of this?!” Ren roared. “We came in peace, and now you attack us?! We came seeking a relationship, but make no mistake, the Stone will not forgive this!”
“Stop yapping, insect,” Gaara replied murderously, and Ren and the Anbu cried out in sync as their orbs tightened. “I recognize what I am doing and the consequences it may bring. But do not heedlessly threaten me; the Stone is weak. They wouldn’t have bothered trying to turn the Leaf’s ally if they were not. I imagine the Cloud was your first option, but they’ve been less than friendly to the other Great Villages since its inception. Figured the Sand might be willing, and to be fair, knowing my father, he very well may be.”
“Then free us! This will benefit your homeland as it does ours! You are a soldier! Your father would not condone this!” Ren roared.
“That he would not. Unfortunately for your lot, I care little. See, Naruto Uzumaki is a friend of mine, and I am certain he will return. That matters because I owe him something of a favor you’ll be helping me repay…” Gaara assured the man.
“You insolent monster!” Ren roared, but Gaara cut him off roughly, grabbing his face.
“This insolent monster's opinion is the only one that matters,” Gaara told Ren. “Now die. Sand Coffin!”
The three siblings watched as the balls condensed, crushing and killing the men instantly, the discarded sand, blood, and viscera raining to the ground below.
“I know we need Naruto on our side for our plans,” Kankuro exclaimed after a moment. “But is it really wise to do something like this? Poor bastard wasn’t wrong; if daddy dearest hears of this, there will be hell to pay.”
“It is just as I said, I care little about it myself. But as a friend of Naruto Uzumaki, I can not allow his homeland to be destroyed… not yet.” Gaara answered. “Besides, a war at this moment would greatly cost our plans.”
“So we needed to nip that in the bud.” Temari agreed. “But the Stone may very well react to this.”
“They cannot sister,” Gaara assured. “Think carefully. Humans are cautious and cowardly by nature. Without alerting the other villages, they cannot raise a problem with these deaths. They’ll merely cut their losses and likely abandon their current plan.”
“Is this to finally win over Naruto?” Temari asks.
“Not really,” Gaara flippantly answered. This will undoubtedly help, but he will eventually come around alone. With the world we live in and the being who is, he’ll have no other choice…”
“Naruto Uzumaki,” Gaara whispered to himself. “You showed me the folly of my ways. But soon you will see your own.” (11)
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Naruto / Sasuke’s POV (Southern Swamps of Irminsul - Terra)
Naruto and Yuno marched up the trees of the Blechumi Clan, exhausted, filthy, and more than a little done with the day. Naruto was seemingly coated in blood; his shirt was barely clamped to by thin straps around his shoulders, and his usually bright eyes seemed dull. Yuno was less bloody and damaged but just as exhausted. As they marched up the tree, the sun was slowly falling, the light of day dimming and damning them to another night of rest.
Without the swamps teeming with demons, his clones had managed to go much farther. In fact, they had covered the entirety of the Southern Swamps, encountered and either aided or impeded various clans and had been thorough in their search. With so many copies of himself branching out to search, Naruto decided they would deal with the mosquitoes.
His interaction with them had been short and brutal; the creatures seemingly just mindlessly hunted for food and feasted upon anything they could overwhelm. Ichumi explained that both the Mosquito and Krookorook Clans had kept the swamp oppressed and the population of all clans low. After meeting Muri and the Blechumi Clan, the idea made his blood boil. With Ichumi explaining they hunted the entirety of not only Irminsul but Terra as a whole, the decision became finalized.
Naruto and Yuno had gone out to either scare off or eliminate the clan of bloodsuckers. However, it had been a challenging task. For one, the pure amount the nest contained was enough for Naruto to go all out. And more than enough to discover Yuno had a crippling fear of mosquitoes. Most bugs were no problem for her; however, the flying parasites were an exception. Which left Naruto to deal with the hive and protect her. Worse yet, many decided to hide inside the cave next.
This left Naruto and a hesitant Yuno to lead a clone army to siege the cave system, which was full of foes. It had been dark, disturbing with the raw amount of blood and corpses, and taken quite a while to complete. Even the fearful Yuno eventually had to chip in for them to escape alive, though having managed to destroy the hive and scare off the survivors. Naruto had been tired at that point; once the clones had all either willfully or not expelled, however, he felt half dead.
His mind was also exhausted. He felt ashamed he hadn't found anyone else or signs of the Wolf Clan. Knowing his friends would spend yet another day without his help made Naruto feel sick. But he was too tired to deal with the demons tonight. Based on Yuno's equally exhausted look, she felt the same.
As such, the dejected two walked up the tree, the definition of melancholy in spirit.
Sasuke's POV
Since the encounter with the mosquitoes, Sasuke and Muri's journey had been relatively smooth sailing. The hawks' speed and apparent reputation remained unbothered as they traveled. Sasuke had taken the opportunity to scout the lands before him using his Sharingan.
In the east, he saw several human-like camps that looked like they held homes of various clans and more in the west. This was worthy of note to Sasuke; these clans were more likely to hold his friends. They would need shelter, food, and water for guests or to keep them. When they reunited with Naruto, he would use this knowledge and whatever knowledge Naruto had gathered to figure out their next move.
But the most interesting thing he saw lay in the west: a giant orb of glowing chakra surrounded by a scarlet barrier. Muri had explained it was the chakra anchor, a natural construct of chakra that sat upon the link of Terra and Earth. Apparently, it also fueled and directed the summoning technique the clans used to aid and gain aid from humans, though he had been confused and concerned about the barrier around it.
Certainly worthy of note, Sasuke's gut told him it would be important. But locating his allies came first, something Muri reluctantly agreed with.
Soon, they arrived within the Swamps of Southern Irminsul. The speed of the hawks allowed them to quickly close in on Naruto. They spotted some unique trees that Muri recognized. Apparently, they were the famed trees of the clan of Peacocks. As soon as Sasuke heard they liked humans, he was certain Naruto would be there. Arriving with a boom of air, Sasuke and Muri looked down on the clan of frightened peacocks. Suddenly, a blur appeared in front of them. Revealing a floating, exhausted, and irritated Naruto in front of them.
"God damn it, you scared me emo!" Naruto cried angrily. Suddenly, his face froze before a goofy smile bloomed. "Muri! You're okay, little buddy!"
"Naruto!" Muri cried happily, jumping off Sasuke and wrapping his short arms around Naruto's neck. Spinning in circles happily, the raccoon coed happily. The goofy blonde was more than equal in his joy. Petting his summon and laughing heartily all the while. Sasuke felt a small amount of satisfaction but stomped it down as he prepared to ask who was here with him.
"Sasuke?" Yuno's voice cut through his plan. Sasuke turned and saw his cousin looking similarly exhausted as the blonde. All the same, Yuno burst out in a giant smile and, similarly to Raccoon, wrapped him up in a hug. "Thank Kami, you're okay." She whispered as she held him. Sasuke rolled his eyes but allowed it. He was sure she had been through much- "There were giant scary mosquitoes, Sasuke! They almost drained me dry!" She cried dramatically, hanging from Sasuke like a child. Sasuke sighed. She always did this when stressed around him.
"I'm sure you handled yourself well," Sasuke said. "Besides, I'm sure the idiot managed to protect you at least."
"It was terrible cousin!" Yuno continued to cry.
"With my partner in crime, I'm ready to face whatever Irminsul has to offer!" Naruto cried.
"Believe it!" Muri agreed joyfully, forming into a giant raccoon to fist-bump the blonde.
"GIANT MOSQUITOES!!" Yuno further dramatized it.
To think Sasuke had been impatient to find his friends… (12)