Samui's POV (Corridor to Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Samui marched dutifully forward with nothing but her mission in mind. Last night was a total failure. Samui had tried to compromise between her morals and duty and had simply shown her hand. Attempted desperately to complete her mission without betraying her new friend. But Naruto, drunk and dazed, had fallen asleep during her rant. While it had been crushing at the time, Samui recognized it as being for the best. Such a desperate tactic would never work, besides, as much as she enjoyed Naruto, she could not risk Atsui…
Samui was a focused and intelligent woman. She had witnessed the Blonde's love for a friendly bout, his passionate way of sharing during combat, it would be a great opportunity… But could Samui do it? Attempting to woo the Blonde felt… dirty. Naruto certainly had her attention, but she wasn't sure she wanted something… serious. Yet A had suggested such, and if Samui was somewhat interested, why not?
Because she respected herself more than that. Samui was no mere tool, she was a cool and collected kunoichi. But Atsui and Naruto…
"Samui." A voice called out, breaking her from her stupor. She turned to see her confidant/spy for A walking toward her. Samui could tell she was here for business, not for sharing any pleasantries, her eyes holding the same cold gaze they had whenever she was under the orders of A.
"Our lord has sent me to remind you of your mission and offer guidance," Mabui stated woodenly. It was clear that Mabui was personally against this, but also just as clear she would not stop such.
"Guidance?" Samui asked. She knew better than to react too strongly or even suggest resistance. A didn't often go by his lord moniker, but when he did so, it was because he expected utter obedience and loyalty.
"Indeed, you are a young, skilled, and attractive lady, but our Lord fears you may hesitate to follow his orders or fail to do so adequately. As such, I have been sent to offer some tips and remind you of the stakes." Mabui stated. Despite her robotic tone Mabui's eyes shined with pain. Samui always hated it when she got like this. It was like she became a machine dutifully fulfilling its task. Yet all the while seemed to show her pain openly. A vicious cycle if there was ever one.
"Which are?"
"Firstly, our Lord recommends using your beauty, specifically your… well assets, to get his attention and subtly fuel his lust. This should affect his decision-making process, a young man often only thinks with one head. Use combat as an excuse to get up close and personal. A shinobi always tries to fight with heightened senses and catching one off guard is the most powerful weapon most of the time. One lapse of attention and *click*- you're dead. That unpredictability and lack of focus will help you achieve your goal. Our Lord wants you to focus on seducing the Uzumaki, as he sees it as the best path forward." Mabui recited.
Samui felt a growing sickness in her stomach. "Surely you don't mean to use me as some sort of call girl? That would be un-"
Samui was stopped on the account of Mabui putting a finger to her lips. But it was Mabui's eyes that drove the young woman to silence. They were cold and desperate, as if she knew Samui was in danger and that she would save her from such a threat at any cost.
"Our Lord has been more observant than many know, he knows you have befriended him. He knows you seem more interested than mere friendship as well. As such, it only makes sense for you to move this way. Trust me when I say whatever he is to you, he is not worth it." Mabui countered. "Please Sam-"
Samui, losing her temper, smacked her hand away. Mabui's eyes widened at such, Samui rarely lost her temper. "You know that doesn't matter, I wanted to see where things went, not be ordered to give myself to him! I barely know him! I thought you, of all people, wouldn't do this!"
Mabui's desperation seemed to give way to anger as she got in Samui's face. "Stop being childish! Do you think I didn't try to convince him against this? I did! But our Lord will not be persuaded. Besides we aren't asking you to wed the man, merely enchant him. Something I might add you seem to want. I know how it feels, but we, as kunoichi, are expected to use all of our… assets to serve. It is the burden of being a woman of the Cloud. I'm sorry, Samui…"
"No, I'm sorry! I refuse! This is not cool!" Samui stated boldly.
"No, you don't."
"Excuse me?"
"You don't, you know the cost of doing such," Mabui explained gravely.
"No…" Samui said as she realized why Mabui had been told to come speak to her before the fight. A was an impatient man, it seemed he wanted results and had prepared some cruel encouragement for her.
"Yes, our Lord has made it clear he expects your compliance. Should you fail to attempt such, or we feel you failed due to your incompetence, our Lord has promised the death of Atsui…" Mabui said, looking away from Samui. Samui flinched as she dropped to her knees. She feared it may come to this, but A had promised it now. Samui knew better than to hope A would be bluffing if she failed... Atsui might die...
"Fine, I'll… seduce Naruto…" Samui stated as she forced her calm to return to her. To mask the pain and shame that filled her body. Mabui nodded and hugged Samui as she often did when A did something like this. Cradling her as if she was a child. Mabui had been forced into this, this was a desperate attempt to express remorse. To make this blow hurt just a little less. Despite the small gesture, she was touched by it all the same.
But it mattered little to Samui now. She had spent her life protecting the only family she had left. Today would be no different…
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Naruto's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Naruto was running out of muscles to stretch… it bothered him that his opponent hadn't arrived yet. He had been looking forward to his bout with Samui. Not that he particularly was interested in harming her. Just had wondered how a fight between the two would go. Though Naruto did consider it a plus, he could avenge Ino while having a blast during their battle. Though as much as the blonde would love to enjoy the fight to the fullest, he wouldn't underestimate her.
While neither Tenten nor Kurotsuchi had been too much of a challenge for Naruto, they had clarified one thing. Naruto was holding back too much, mainly to hide his more robust techniques from the likes of Gaara or Sasuke. But now he doubted such would matter, as strong as both were, such a slight advantage would mean relatively little. He wouldn't expose it all, the surprise was part of the plan. But Naruto would be looking for the finish from the start. Though it would be harsh towards a friend...
Kakashi also looked confused as he subtly gestured to the Kage Box. Notably, the Raikage stood and gave a thumbs up to him. Kakashi and Naruto seemed confused by such a thing until the steady rhythm of boots marched toward them. Both glanced down and saw Samui was present. Looking as unbothered as always as she squared up to Naruto.
Naruto couldn't help the smile that filled his face. Samui had a similar style to his own and seemed to be someone Naruto would love to be closer to. It may be odd, but one of the best methods Naruto had discovered to do so was combat. For some reason, when Naruto fought someone, he felt closer to them. It was as if somehow, in the storm of violence, he had found some peace. Neji, Tenten, and even Kurotsuchi had shown such. Naruto wondered if he and Samui could communicate clearly…
"Everything all good?" Kakashi asked while he glanced at both. Both nodded determined, eyes never leaving each other as they faced down. "Huh, I'm a third wheel again. I should've said no to reffing. Anyway, begin." With his piece said his aloof sensei poofed away. Job done with the usual level of oddness.
"Naruto," Samui stated with a confident smirk. "How about a bit of wager?"
"Betting, eh?" Naruto asked, confused. "I mean, I guess, but my mom warned me that gambling is like evil or something. Oh, a lethal vice, I think that's what she called it!" Was she trying to win some money off him or something?
"Nothing evil about this," Samui said with an airy chuckle. Naruto wasn't sure why, but he found the laugh pleasant. It made him focus on her slightly, made him wish to make her laugh more. Did she laugh like that before? "A simple one, whoever wins gets to give the loser an order they can't refuse."
Naruto wasn't a social butterfly, but he could feel something off about that. "That's kinda cryptic, I don't know if I could agree to something like that unless I know what I'm doing…"
"Nothing too strenuous. I'll be gentle..." Samui assured Naruto, giving him a warm smile. Naruto felt a blush nearly appear on his face. Somehow that had felt innocent yet heady. How could it be both? "From what you told me, you don't back down or go back on your word."
Naruto frowned, he stuck to his word and, to be frank, was strong enough to win the bet irregardless. Naruto doubted he would be defeated here. Besides, she was a friend. What would the harm be? "Damn, throwing my own words at me." Naruto laughed earnestly. "Fair enough, the victor gets one order or whatever."
"Do you know what you want?" Samui asked with a wink. Naruto caught the suggestive tone. "I can think of some things…"
"Wait, what?!" Naruto asked. What was she talking about? But as he opened his eyes to demand what she meant, he saw Samui was already closing the distance between them…
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Sai's POV (Outside of Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Sai and Tenten calmly walked toward the Kage Box, determined to speak to the Hokage.
"Why exactly are we doing this without Shikamaru again?" Tenten asked, slightly miffed to be sent on an errand like this. It reminded her of her time in the Root, doubtless.
Sai held no such intense ill will towards the task. He knew most would think it related to the supposed trauma received from the Root. But it mattered little to Sai, Sai was free and had gotten the friends his brother had asked him to find all those years ago. He even had gotten to keep Tenten as one.
"Earth to Sai, are you zoning out again? I was supposed to be free of emotionless silence, but somehow, I got stuck with two more socialess creatures."
"I am human." Did Tenten think he was such an odd animal? Wait… Sarcasm. "Nevermind Panda."
"I'm impressed you detected it this time Sai… WAIT! Stop calling me Panda, you bastard!" Tenten yelled at Sai.
"You told me not to personally insult people." Sai reminded his friend. With a wag of his finger.
"And?"
"I am a bastard, but it is rude for you to point that out," Sai said with a proud nod. Learning the complexities of social interaction was challenging, but he had come a long way. He rarely had misunderstandings!
"So close and yet so far," Tenten sighed. "The answer to my question?"
"When you sent me to retrieve him, he explained he was too injured to come with us," Sai answered obediently, he knew when Tenten was being serious to do so as well. "He asked his teammate if I would help him by carrying his burden today. It only felt right to do so. I am working on being the best teammate I can be."
"That's odd, I thought he surrendered before Sasuke could land anything significant." Tenten pondered. "Wouldn't he have been healed anyway?"
"Oh no, he assured me such a thing happened but was ineffective." Sai explained.
"Did you, by chance... check?" Tenten asked with a frown.
"You told me I should trust my friends, so I figured he wouldn't lie," Sai answered sweetly. "I suppose that trust in friends is rather nice. Though it does feel rather risky."
"I am going to kill Pineapple for taking advantage of you," Tenten promised vengefully. "It's like he took candy from a baby."
"He did no such thing!" Sai assured her. He had created another misunderstanding! Life had been much simpler in the Root. But he would work hard to adapt to it.
"Oh brother, I'm surrounded by idiots." Tenten lamented head in hands.
"Hey, kids, I assume you have a decent reason for making as much racket as you are? I don't like the bastards myself, but you little shits are expected to act proper around the Kage. Something I'm forced to force you all to do." A stern womanly voice called out.
Standing in front of the door to the Kage Box was one of the Sannin. Tsunade Senju. The only female S-rank shinobi, the world's most renowned medic, and the unfortunately known gambler. She was facing the two down and seemed less than amused to see them.
Tenten gasped in shock and seemed to hide behind Sai. Was she nervous around the legend? He supposed such was only suitable. Even in Root, Tenten had always looked up to Tsunade, Shikamaru had described her as a super fan. Sai took a step forward and offered a quick brow. If Tenten was starstruck, as they say, as a supportive teammate, the burden to take over was his.
"Hello, mam, we are requesting an audience with the Hokage," Sai informed politely. "We recognize such is unorthodox, but we must insist, we have information we are certain he'd be interested in."
Tsunade sighed, obviously somewhat annoyed with their presence. "Well, the old man can't simply stop observing the exams. I suppose you could step in and offer such now if it was truly vital. Otherwise, it will have to wait."
"We cannot do such Senju-sama." Tenten chimed in, having apparently overcome her star fright. "The information is of a delicate nature, we can't just offer it in the presence of foreign entities." Sai nodded, as young and inexperienced as they were. All Root members were trained to deal with situations like this. Training Sai once again found helpful, and Tenten often fell back onto when stressed.
"Hmmm, well, you can't speak to him right now, if you tell me, I'll inform him as soon as I have the chance to do so." Tsunade offered to them. Annoyed as she was, it would be foolish to at least not hear them out.
Sai looked back at Tenten to ensure she agreed with this and, seeing her nod, offered their info. "Yesterday, we were celebrating with Dickless and Pineapple."
"Sai, god dammit, use their real names, not your nicknames for them." Tenten critiqued.
"I thought humor was good for diffusing tension?" Sai asked, confused.
"Also good for ruining credibility." Tenten said with a sigh.
"My apologies then," Sai offered with another bow. "Naruto Uzumaki and Shikamaru Nara. Such was going well. Almost all of us were somewhat affected by alcohol. During this, Samui of the Cloud arrived and asked to speak to Naruto on her lonesome. Shikamaru and I found this suspicious, Tenten was already unconscious."
"SAI!"
"Believing it to be risky to allow a foreign shinobi to speak to our ally alone while he was intoxicated and somewhat interested to see if they were hooking up." Sai explained in his usual straightforward way, he saw Tenten drop her face in her hands. But was unsure why and instead barreled on.
"You really intended to bother the Hokage with gossip?" Tsunade asked incredulously.
"Yes, though this gossip happened to be Samui of the Cloud being assigned and attempting to win over Naruto Uzumaki to the Cloud." Sai finished simply. Silence filled the room at the statement. He always enjoyed responding to attitude when it was apparent. Easy to pick out and respond to. Even amusing to fuel a tiny bit. Gaslighting they called it apparently.
Tsunade offered a weary sigh before nodding her head. "Alrighty, I'll tell the old man whenever I can. Good job on reporting this to me. I'll handle it from here." The two Genin looked to themselves before bowing respectfully and marching off.
Tsunade waited for them to be entirely gone as she kicked around their information in her head. So Samui had been ordered to win Naruto over. Despite their concern and what Tsunade was sure A thought was compelling reasons, Tsunade was confident Naruto would never change sides. Jiraiya had a habit of teaching men as talented as they were foolishly loyal.
Furthermore, if she had told Hiruzen, he would have been forced to respond somehow. That would be dull, the brat had boldly declared her wisdom defunct. But now her warning would come full circle. It would be interesting to see how the arrogant brat dealt with the truth of the world.
Tsunade would withhold this information for now. Time to see if Naruto Uzumaki was merely talking heedlessly. Could he truly navigate the problematic situation Kunoichi faced? Could anyone stop such a situation? Tsunade would find out if a fool like those she kept meeting truly could change anything.
The last two sadly hadn't.
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Naruto / Samui's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Naruto had been excited about the fight but had yet to determine how it would go. He had not expected Samui to launch a surprise attack! Naruto grabbed the tanto on his back and tensed as he prepared his counter. Right when Samui drew close, he moved. Time to see who the better kenjutsu user was!
"Uzumaki Style: Deflecting Draw!" Naruto called. He quickly drew and slashed with his tanto. Drawing and slashing away Samui's attack in one fluid motion. Naruto's strength sent Samui flying back a short distance. He smirked at the also smiling Samui as he prepared to follow this up.
"Uzumaki Style: Seafoam Slashing Net!" With several slashes, Naruto sent a gridlike grouping of chakra blades flying forth.
Samui did not flinch as lightning sparked from her blades and unleashed her technique. "Cool Flashing Beheading!" Lightning burst forth from her own blade, forming into a cutting bolt. This sliced through Naruto's own attack before racing towards Naruto. Without hesitation, Naruto charged forward, dodging the attack by merely leaning his head. He closed the distance absurdly quickly. His raw speed allowed him to do so in a mere second. Samui raised her blade to block a thrust of Naruto's tanto, but it was a feint. Naruto instead attempted to sweep her legs. Impressively, Samui back-flipped over, aiming a finger at Naruto.
Naruto raised an eyebrow at such but flinched when Samui called out. "Lightning Style: Jumping Arc!" Samui called as a lightning bolt surged on her finger and arced toward Naruto. Only given a second to react, Naruto raised Riptide to block out but gasped in pain when the electricity was blocked but bounced off his blade and into him. The electricity made his muscles tense, and he froze in pain. It only lasted for an instant, but it was all Samui needed to do to close the distance. Naruto managed to raise his guard as Samui slammed into it with a flying knee. The power of the blow made him slide back and fall to one knee. Samui followed this up with a two-handed downward thrust of her blade. Naruto caught such, and the two engaged in a blade clash.
"You seem to be losing your cool, Naruto." Samui said as she looked down at Naruto. She gave a small teasing smile intended to tempt his competitive side.
"Didn't expect you to be this strong," Naruto admitted readily. His grin grew as the fight was slowly building. But it was better Samui was strong, this fight would be fun! It would probably be painful, Naruto did hate being shocked. "But it's better this way anyway! Let's cut loose!" He finished his thought out loud as he prepared to continue.
Samui POV
"Let's cut loose!" Naruto cried. Samui did not flinch at the next part, she expected him to attempt to overpower her again. He was the physically stronger opponent, it only made sense. Instead of allowing him to do so, Samui kept her cool and spun to allow his force to unbalance him. Samui felt her mind and body focus in the moment as he did so.
As conflicted and disorganized as her mind had been, it finally achieved peace. There was no need to think as much now. Samui knew what to do, how, and the best way to achieve such. She would think over the ramifications and her feelings later. Samui had to do as she had done for years and protect what little she had.
What was Samui's mission? What had her leader commanded of her? She was to win over Naruto Uzumaki to the Cloud. Samui was also to perform well enough to not harm the Cloud's reputation. A and Mabui had insisted she could achieve both in this match. So her goal wasn't to win but to do well and build rapport with Naruto. Easy enough, Samui supposed, she would do whatever was needed for Atsui.
Naruto impressively reacted to such a counter and attempted to grab her arm. Samui was too slow to dodge such a thing, but that was fine. Instead, she leaned slightly, making him miss the arm but brush something softer. It sent a small chill down her spine and Samui felt embarrassed but was focused, and it barely registered. Instead, she watched hawk-like as Naruto's face grew red, he stumbled back, and he attempted to apologize. She ignored such and instead. As Mabui had suggested, watched his eyes. She noticed Naruto's gaze dip lower than her eyes before shooting back up shamefully. Mabui was right, this was surprisingly easy. It even felt good to make Naruto lose his cool. Samui smiled sweetly as she used the opening to kick Naruto in his chest with a back kick. While Samui wasn't the physically strongest, she could crack stones with that kick. Yet Naruto flew back but landed on his feet albeit a bit wobbly. As if it was something of a minor inconvenience. "Something wrong, Blondie?" Samui asked innocently.
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Naruto seemed to hesitate before shaking his head and seeming to refocus. Once again, Samui took advantage of this as she prepared her attack with a taunting smile. "Cloud Style: Crescent Moon Beheading!" She called. Naruto ducked under the slash but was unprepared and unbalanced, which allowed Samui to crash bodily into him.
The two became a ball of limbs as they rolled through before they settled with Samui straddling over him. Naruto instinctively bucked to free himself, but this merely made both freeze for an instant as their position became apparent to both. The contact was innocent and yet loaded with tension. Awkward looks were given to each other. Even with it being her intention Samui felt somewhat embarrassed by such but also enthralled to get this reaction. But she allowed the adrenaline to fuel her as she attempted to put her tanto to his throat, ending the match before Naruto called out his counter. Apparently annoyed and decidedly done with her odd tactics.
"Personal Atmosphere: Level One!" Naruto called. The air around Samui seemed to swell around her before it lifted her away from Naruto. Naruto rolled to his feet and propelled himself up to her.
Samui felt a sliver of panic fill her as Naruto's gaze intensified. Despite the overwhelming power he showed and her being vulnerable in the air. She felt no fear of him hurting her. No, somehow, it only made her want to fight with him more. Test her limits, Samui had never been the type to lose herself in combat before. She had always been told when to fight for real. Yet, something was thrilling about fighting Naruto. This was fun, hell, it was cool!
Samui was helpless as Naruto grabbed her and whipped her to the ground. Samui slammed into it with a booming thud and felt stunning pain fill her body. She rolled on instinct, narrowly avoiding a fight-ender of a double stomp attempted by Naruto.
"Alright, Samui, explain yourself," Naruto said with a slight frown. "You're not fighting properly, you're being all weird. Plus, stop being so damn touchy! I can't focus when you do that."
Samui felt the shame grow but continued her ploy regardless. Besides, a small part of her was enjoying this. She liked having Naruto focused on her and making such an unflappable man squirm. His struggle to maintain focus and not leer at her was appreciated. Yet she felt some accomplishment when she made him break. "Why am I distracting~?" She sang mockingly asking as if she was confused. She also lowered herself into a sprinting stance, allowing Naruto a view she was sure would throw him off.
Naruto flinched at such. "See, what the hell is the deal with that?!"
"With what?"
"I'm not stupid, I know what you're doing!" Naruto bluffed obviously.
"Preparing to charge?" Samui asked.
Naruto growled. "You keep making us touch, and now you're well…"
"Hm?" Samui hummed in false consideration as she looked at her stance. She gasped in pretend realization. "Oh, I see, you find my... looks distracting."
"Yes! No! Stop that!" Naruto roared indignantly.
Samui felt vindication and shame in equal measure. She liked having Naruto's attention and enjoyed the easy comradery of the two. This mission may not be purely a negative thing. Besides, Naruto had been having a hard time at home, and they would treat him better… yet such thoughts caused an equal level of guilt. Samui nearly confessed her sins to her target. Before Atsui's face flashed through her mind.
She had to do this. Besides, she did enjoy it to a certain extent… the best for everyone involved…
"Seriously, Samui, what's going on?" Naruto asked grimly. His voice was as serious as his eyes now. Something about the plain concern in his eyes made her feel weak.
"N-nothing, I'm cooler than ever," Samui said. She nervously raced forward to keep him from prying, but to her dismay, Naruto seemed to handle her onset of taijutsu and kenjutsu. Each strike was dodged, caught, or blocked. Her blade never seemed to even come close to hitting the blonde. But most upsetting was his calm eyes, even as he slowly overwhelmed her.
"Usually, no doubt," Naruto agreed, blocking several more strikes from her. "But right now, I can tell you are conflicted and not being honest. If it's some strategy to distract me during this fight, it's certainly working, but I'm worried about it. I thought you wanted something from me, unless you give it your all, you won't get it!"
Samui grits her teeth as a rare frown appeared on her face. "You think I'm not trying?! You have no clue what this means to me!"
"Maybe," Naruto admitted with ease. "But whatever you're fighting for isn't something you believe in. Not truly, I can tell."
Samui felt anger towards him for the first time since she had met the blonde. Naruto had no clue why she was conflicted. He was not being made to choose between his morals and family. "I believe in it plenty!" Samui roared as she upped her speed and intensity.
"You were stronger when you fought Suigetsu." Naruto noted as he matched her increase in speed and power. "Does this have something to do with the bet?"
Samui's patience snapped at such. He wanted to know so badly? He insisted upon hearing the truth? Fine she'll expose it.
"YES!"
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Kabuto's POV (???)
Kabuto wished he was dead. He supposed such should be more concerning than it was. But Kabuto was much past the point of panic. Even utter despair and terror could grow old, it seemed. When he created his Perpetual Healing technique, he was ecstatic. It was a feat even his master had found impressive. Comparing it to his own survival technique. It had been the pride of Kabuto.
He may not have been as self-fulfilled as the average person. Kabuto may not even be that good of a person. But he had created a technique that would indeed ensure his legacy. It would ensure some level of meaning had been achieved in his life. Oh, Orochimaru, and he had theorized it the technique was truly perpetual that it would even pause his aging. If not for Orochimaru having a more fitting method for his needs, the Sannin would've surely taken it for his own. Kabuto was now sure of the power of his jutsu. He supposed it was fortunate Orochimaru had never realized just how strong it was.
Unfortunately, his pride and joy caused Kabuto's own personal hell. Despite the fact he could not breathe, he was still alive. There was no air in his prison, his mouth had been full of crystal. His body seemed to endlessly ache as he was forced to maintain his pose under the pressure of the earth. It was a painful and drawn-out death, or it should've been. Kabuto figured that his body must be creating cells due to jutsu at a rate faster than they were dying. His limbs would pulsate with numbness before he lost feeling in them entirely. His body was dying and being revived regardless.
At first, Kabuto had reveled in such. If he could not be crushed by the earth or suffocated to death, what could kill him? Could anything truly? He maintained the technique and was determined to find a way out of the tomb Guren had created for him. But after what felt like days, he gave up. The pain, the shock of dying repeatedly, the darkness, it all overwhelmed in time, and Kabuto had attempted to end the technique. Better to die than to be a victim of this endless suffering.
That was when the true terror set in. Kabuto had no control over the technique, he could not stop it. Just as he designed himself, his chakra automatically healed him and recycled itself. Indeed, it is impressive but shocking all the same. Then he realized what this meant. Guren hadn't known it, but she had subjected him to endless torture.
Being quite the adept interrogator, Kabuto was more than aware of the mental strain he was being put through. Keeping track of time was a great way to maintain sanity during such. But it was simply impossible, keeping count when awake was easy, but eventually, Kabuto passed out from exhaustion or lack of oxygen.
There were no dreams or hope for escape. Kabuto would awake from his latest death to find himself still trapped. And the time passed only made him more terrified. Kabuto had never believed in any god, yet he prayed to any would listen for death.
Once his emotions had run their course, it was either between death four hundred and fifty-one or four hundred fifty-six that the terror and despair had passed. Kabuto, from there, slowly worked. It was impossible to tell if he could escape, but if he was not allowed death, he might as well try.
Kabuto spent his time conscious, trying to move any body part. He desperately attempted any sort of movement from his fingers to his jaw. As far as he could tell, he made no progress…
Kabuto prayed he would die soon…
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Kurotsuchi's POV (Audience Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Kurotsuchi had initially intended to win the exams. This would make her a household name within the shinobi world, bring her homeland great acclaim, and prove to her grandfather that Kurotsuchi was ready as the front-runner of the next generation of Iwa ninjas. She supposed she had performed well, she had defeated Kankuro with relative ease. But her plans of domination had run into a roadblock. Naruto Uzumaki, oh, she was pissed at him for ruining her plan. But she had learned something.
As much as it had been embarrassing, it had been eye-opening. Both skill and attitude-wise, Kurotsuchi had a longer way to go than she knew. If someone as carefree and goofy as Naruto Uzumaki was closer to her goal than her, Kurotsuchi had a lot of hard work to do. Perhaps even some personal growth, now she was sounding like a Leaf hippie…
It was surprising to run into Ino during the festival. Kurotsuchi held no ill will towards her and had been bored. Perhaps that was why when she noticed the long face on Ino, she had offered company. A mere whim, Kurotsuchi had not seen the chance of friendship or comradery. Naruto may have been an exception, but Kurotsuchi was still not fond of Leaf shinobi. But Ino had shown a level of spine and attitude Kurotsuchi had not known she had. It turned out that Ino was much more interesting than she had thought.
So when Kurotsuchi saw her new friend sitting alone, she felt obligated to sit with her. The duo soon became a trio when a more rambunctious kunoichi joined them.
"Oh, you, Naruto's teammate! The sexy rope lady!" Fuu was just as oddball as Naruto. Something that Ino seemed to be annoyed by as much as she seemed to enjoy it. Seeing the potential for fun, Kurotsuchi insisted she sit with them. Then, before Kurotsuchi could even set up some fun, fate showed its hand.
"That absolute bitch!" Ino yelled as she gripped the railing that kept them from falling in. "She's totally trying to seduce him!"
"Hey, don't call Samui a bitch. She's awesome." Fuu chided with what looked like a glare from a puppy. Looked like she had grown close to the Cloud shinobi, only marginally better than the hippies. Though personally, Kurotsuchi wasn't picking a fight with her. Anyone who could walk away from Sasuke's finisher was someone Kurotsuchi had no intention of messing with. Apparently, Ino, despite her usual friendly and intelligent demeanor, seemed unbothered by the living tank she was talking to.
"She's a total man stealer!" Ino sniped back. Fuu seemed to hesitate at such.
"Feeling a bit territorial?" Kurotsuchi taunted. Fuu would likely need to think over such. It was the fair Kurotsuchi stalled for her. This would be funny.
"Oh, stuff it, she just doesn't get to seduce MY teammate." Ino explained.
"So threatened." Kurotsuchi baited further. She was not giving up on this so quickly.
"Threatened by her?" Ino said incredulously. "Naruto would never anyway. He never even seemed to have a crush in the academy."
"A late bloomer~! One presented with a woman puberty either blessed or cursed." Kurotsuchi tacked onto her fun with glee. "I'm sure it gets his attention, but I'm not a fan of back pain."
"Naruto isn't so shallow or easily wooed," Ino said confidentially.
"Shouldn't you be threatened by Samui-san anyway?" Fuu asked earnestly. Apparently she had found her train of thought.
Ino's head whipped around violently at such.
"Well, she did beat you."
"This time." Ino countered defensively. "That was before she tried to take my B- my teammate. Next time she's done!"
"HAHAHAHA" Kurotsuchi roared with glee.
"How is she stealing anyway?" Fuu asked.
Kurotsuchi would've loved to explain but couldn't breathe. Laughter was suffocating, they say.
"Samui being suggestive and being touchy and the things she's saying!" Ino explained angrily.
"What's wrong with that?" Fuu asked, confused.
Kurotsuchi, having regained her breath, chimed in. "Remember towards the start of the fight when Naruto accidentally touched her girl?" She asked bluntly. Ino growled at such while Fuu simply nodded her head. "How would you have reacted?"
"Kill him," Fuu answered with a nod before stopping. "Ohhhhh, she likes him, doesn't she?" Ino dropped her head into her palms as if utterly overwhelmed by the odd Fuu while Kurotsuchi continued her earlier fit of laughter.
"You see why this is bad now?!" Ino asked.
"No, it would be awesome if Naruto and Samui got together. I'd get to hang out with both of them at once. Conveniently lucky~!" Fuu decided with a satisfied nod to herself.
Kurotsuchi couldn't decide what was funnier. Fuu's reasoning or the face Ino made at her when she said such a thing.
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Samui / Naruto's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
"YES! This stupid bet is related. I… I was given orders from my Lord." Samui said with shame. She spoke softly so the mics would not pick up her words. Suddenly, she threw several orbs all around them, they burst into smoke, surrounding the two entirely and cutting them off from the audience visually.
Naruto flinched at such but didn't seem too concerned. "Your Lord? You mean the Raikage?"
Samui nodded as she looked to the ground shamefully. She couldn't look him in his eyes as she exposed her secret. "He asked me to win you over to the Cloud, primarily through manipulation or seduction."
Naruto frowned at such but nodded to show he understood.
"I know it sounds terrible. I normally would never do something so… uncool. But well, my brother is a prisoner… though I suppose hostage would be more accurate." Samui explained. "If I refused to do so, he would be harmed, there's a chance he will be if I even dare fail. So, I decided to do as my Lord demanded. I figured if I seduced you, it may allow me to win. Then I would've used the bet to force your hand to join us… then I would've used myself to keep you there."
"I see." Naruto responded.
Samui felt her shame and guilt drown her. She went to kneel to apologize before Naruto's voice stopped her.
"Why stand down? You gotta fight to protect your brother." Naruto replied with a small smile. He relaxed and stretched as he began to speak. "Furthermore, you gotta win this bet to accomplish your mission."
"You realize what you say…" Samui said with a pause. Surely, Naruto couldn't be encouraging her.
"My mom told me everyone has their reasons for things. We often don't understand them, but we should try." Naruto explained with a wide smile. "I get you were trying to trick me, but you came clean. But the Samui, I think I know, wouldn't give up so easily. Especially if she had a good reason to fight."
"I fight to take you from your home. I fight for my own selfish reasons." Samui countered.
"Of course," Naruto replied with ease. "But I don't intend to lose. And besides, we all lie sometimes. Why give up on something you want?"
"Because it's pointless, we both know you'd never willingly leave, and I can't force you. By telling you the truth, I have given up. Even if it were not the case I attempted to mislead you. " Samui stated, her voice was now empty and full of pain.
"Fuck that." Naruto said with a frown. "Nothing we fight for is ever pointless… besides I gave you my word… So forget all that other stuff. Right now it's me and you."
"Meaning?" Samui asked with wide eyes. Naruto couldn't mean…
"If you manage to beat me, I'll do it." Naruto promised seriously. "But you better show me a real fight. Otherwise, you stand no chance."
Samui slowly stood as the words reverberated through her. Her determination was refueled as the two stood staring intently into each other's eyes. Before, they had lacked some intensity in them, but now they were filled with it.
"Naruto Uzumaki, you are one of the coolest guys I've ever met," Samui said with a slight blush. "But you'll regret bringing out my A-game, Blondie."
"I don't do regrets. Believe it."
The smoke cleared as they finished their conversation. There was no need for words anymore. Naruto suddenly shot forward at a shocking speed. Samui somehow managed to duck under the headfirst attack. But she was left open when Naruto stopped himself in mid-air and kicked her unprotected back. Samui rolled with the impact and fired off several kunai as Naruto pursued her. But to her shock, each kunai froze in the air. Naruto smiled as they fired back towards Samui. With all her skill and speed, she deflected each within mere instants. As soon as she deflected the last one, Naruto was within reach. Samui attempted to leap back from the distance, but as soon as her feet left the ground, she felt herself fly toward Naruto. This left her wide open for a haymaker Naruto sent. The blow was decisive, Samui felt her consciousness flicker at such, and she flew through the air helplessly.
Though Naruto could've finished her off, he allowed her to recover instead. The hypocrite… Samui rolled on the ground to bleed off the impact. And stood with a scowl. Naruto seemed to flinch at her look with a nervous smile. "You're holding back still. I appreciate the concern, but I'm not just some victim… show me what a fight with Naruto Uzumaki looks like. I'd rather fail knowing my opponent held nothing back, anything less would be uncool."
As Samui spoke, she pondered the fight so far. Naruto's Personal Atmosphere was a tricky technique to deal with. It allowed him absurd mobility, augmented his speed and power, and allowed him to manipulate objects in the air and even her, if not well grounded. Naruto Uzumaki was much cooler than Samui had even realized. She would need to use that technique again, she supposed.
"I suppose that's fair," Naruto admitted with a laugh. "Though I gotta keep some of my moves hidden, I can show you what it looks like when I'm serious." As he said this, eight clones appeared in the air around the blonde. In sync, the group of Narutos all slightly hovered in the air. "Instead, I'll show you my preferred close-range fighting style. Dance of the Nine."
Samui inwardly flinched, she was struggling to keep up with one Naruto, let alone nine. And they all seemed to have that damned jutsu activated… cool.
Samui weaved hand signs with a smile, and the two blondes smiled as they prepared for the final stretch. "Cool Aura: Electric Sense." Samui said as lightning crackled off her skin. She lowered herself into a defensive guard, as much as she was enjoying this time with Naruto, she had to try to win. It would be the best for everyone.
Naruto's POV
Naruto ordered his clones to surround Samui with a subtle nod. Soon, the nine surrounded the blonde Cloud kunoichi from every conceivable angle. Each of their eyes was intense and focused. The smile was now gone, they each were focused with an intent stare. Naruto had been routinely pushed to his limits during his training with Jiraiya. It had affected him in odd ways. One of which was that it fundamentally changed the way he fought. Before, he would attack head-on with all of his abilities, guided by good instinct and blind emotion.
Naruto had learned from that mistake, now he knew there was a time for such. A pitched battle was not the time. Samui was weaker than him, but not to her detriment. She was impressive. But Naruto had trained with a much stronger opponent in mind. Truthfully, this was going to be overkill.
But Naruto knew if he held back, it would be to Samui's shame. She must be going through a lot… Naruto's eyes glanced at the Kage Box. He could not see the Raikage but felt anger towards him. What sort of leader treated his people like this? It didn't matter, Naruto needed to face Gaara, for now, that meant beating his own friend. Even if she did need the win…
Besides, Naruto would never serve a leader like that.
"I'm sorry, Samui, I must continue, even through you." Naruto declared seriously.
"It's cool." Samui said with a fragile smile.
"But one day, I will come to the Cloud. And I'll make it so this sort of thing will never happen again… just wait." Naruto promised.
"Oh, Naruto," Samui said fondly. "Don't make promises you can't keep."
Naruto didn't respond, they would communicate through combat.
Two Naruto's flew towards Samui at high speeds from opposite sides. With precision and coordination, three clones threw a litany of kunai and shuriken toward Samui, covering any route she might attempt to retreat. Naruto and another clone hung back as the last hovered over Samui.
With a burst of electricity, Samui managed to deflect both clones but could only block a punch from a clone sweeping in from above. Naruto merely narrowed his eyes as the blocked clone clutched Samui's arm, crying out as if shocked. The second clone in the air grabbed the legs of the other and, with a twirl, managed to whip Samui and the clone from the ground and slam them back into it. Samui coughed up blood as the two deflected clones zoomed in to finish her off. The lightning surrounding the blonde woman arced off her and destroyed both clones. The remaining seven Naruto's eyed the woman carefully as she crawled to her feet.
"I'm lucky this technique offers me some defensive amps as well. Or else that little slam would've been the end." Samui commentated as she reset her stance. She would've loved to go on the offensive but needed to stay still to use her technique, without it he would tear her apart.
Naruto was ready to end this…
"Let's get this over with." Naruto said grimly.
Naruto witnessed Samui flinch at such before Naruto and his clones zipped around her. Samui's head whipped around as she desperately attempted to keep track of them. Naruto had decided to show his actual speed, it seemed he was too fast for her.
Without warning, a clone zipped into Samui, once again, the woman managed to block it, but the move's power made her stumble back. This left her open for another clone who took out her legs before she could rebalance. Samui flew up in the air, helpless as several Naruto's smacked her around the air. The real Naruto watched from above as she flew up to him, with a flex of chakra, he grabbed her by the throat and raced towards the ground. Just before the impact, he slowed their fall, allowing the two to touch the ground gently. "It's over." Naruto said with a smile.
Samui had yet to respond. In fact, she seemed frozen, her face oddly red and panicked looking. Naruto was confused by this but figured she didn't like him pinning her down like such with him on top of her. "Sorry." He offered as he stood up and offered a hand to Samui. The woman seemed to flinch before she smiled widely. It was similar to the smile she had given him earlier, but there was something different about it. He liked this one a lot more.
"That it is," Samui said as she took her hand and allowed him to pull her to her feet quickly. "Nice work, Blondie, I had no clue you were so cool. We'll have to do this gain sometime" Her tone was different than before, more optimistic, sure, but there was an odd edge, not unpleasant, but something different…
Naruto had no time to ponder over it as Kakashi poofed in and, with a nod to both, officially announced the result. Naruto smiled as he heard a few sounds of applause from the crowd. It mainly was forced silence, but that was much better than the open hostility of before.
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A's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
A felt some fury as Samui was defeated. He was no fool, as good and loyal as the woman was, he did not expect her to defeat a jinchuriki. She would have to be punished somewhat for not even managing to make him use his beast. But regarding his most recent orders, he was pleased. Clearly, Samui had made a move of some sort when she used the smoke. For neither had looked harmed and had even seemed closer after the fact. Not to mention that ending…
Yes, it was fortunate indeed A had slain her traitorous parents and imprisoned her brother. Samui would prove more than worth the cost of sparing them if she managed to seduce the Nine Tails jinchuriki. Even better, they would likely spawn worthy soldiers. Yes, things looked nice for A and, by proxy, the Cloud.
He supposed he would spare Atsui and Samui from any further punishment,
at least in this case. But it was time to act his part.
"DAMN HER! MY ENTIRE GENIN FORCE WILL FEEL MY IRON CLAW!" A roared belligerently.
Yagura, Rasa, and Onoki were all openly amused by such. A was not
surprised, his exaggerated personality was grating. It must've been satisfying to see him "rage". Besides, they could take these mere exams.
One day, he would show them all true strength…
"Anyway." Hiruzen interrupted their chatter with a small smile. Smug Leaf bastard. "We may want to discuss how we wish to do the finals."
"A good point." A agreed, happy to escape mockery.
"There are three Genin left, perhaps a free-for-all?" Mifune offered.
"Such a chaotic experience may become too much with two jinchuriki and a Uchiha in play," Yagura warned. "Besides, a one-on-one bout would provide a much more heroic battle."
"While I do not share whatever mental illness this lad has." Onoki sniped as he chimed in as well. "But I do agree, I doubt the civilians could keep track of the action. Nor could we expect Kakashi Hatake to reasonably contain such. Those three are nothing short of Jounin level."
"So we continue our randomizer to select a final bye round. The other two will engage in honorable combat and, after being healed, face the third." Mifune concluded. The others all nodded, leaving A no choice but to do the same.
"Well, time to see which Leaf Hippie will die." A spoke bitterly. The board whirled with the three names as it landed on the official match.
Gaara of the Sand VS Naruto Uzumaki
Sasuke Uchiha Bye Round
"Excellent. I'll enjoy watching the Uzumaki perish." A said with a sneer.
"I hope my son doesn't kill him," Rasa offered while rubbing his temples.
"Hmm, Gaara will win then." Yagura decided.
But much to A's disdain, Mifune, Hiruzen, and Onoki seemed to be leaning towards Naruto.
"Naruto Uzumaki is a shinobi unlike the many I've met little over the years," Hiruzen admitted. "He has always been one to shock and inspire. I expect no difference here."
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Guren's POV (???)
Guren sat on a branch slowly sharpening several crystal blades. They were in a small forest just outside the Land of Fire. She sat up high in a tree keeping watch for their expected guest while the other two waited below. In truth sharpening her blades was pointless, with a thought she could do so instantly. But it passed the time as they waited. Also helped block out the other two, who were deep in an argument.
"I'm telling you shitstain you can't possibly compare to the Sound Four!" Tayuya yelled angrily as she stood in the face of Dosu. The two were both arrogant of their abilities and had deemed to pass the time by arguing.
"And I'm telling you we both lost to Naruto Uzumaki, we obviously aren't all that strong. We both were practically useless in the battle with Kabuto." Dosu reasoned.
"One loser, I didn't lose, I surrendered. Two, you three lost three on one! Hell in the last fight I only struggled because you blew out his damn ear drums within seconds of the fight. He was fucking immune to my strongest Genjutsus!" Tayuya replied.
"Against any normal foe that would've been lethal." Dosu countered. "Besides all you did was use that accursed form to fight like a bruiser."
"Better than getting hamstrung and dropping out of the fight first!" Tayuya roared.
"Yet I survived the same as you. Perhaps your title was as manipulative as your leader." Dosu pointed out.
"I get the two of you are bored but please either fight or be silent." Guren barked from her perch above the two.
"I suppose that would be the most efficient way to solve this." Dosu said as he lowered himself into a charging stance.
Tayuya squared up with him as she raised her flute to her lips.
Before the two could clash a duo arrived in the middle of them.
"I have been beseeched to aid you lot. But I must warn you, I will not condone pointless violence. I am a man of principles after all." A deep voice sounded out.
"Sensei remember these aren't the best of people. But I'm obligated to aid them." A lighter pitched voice reasoned.
The group stared down the new arrivals. One was a monk with a shaved head and garbed in simple robes. His eyes were serious and his chakra powerful, he nearly felt as strong as Guren herself.
The other also radiated power and had a presence. He had long haired pulled back into a bun and seemed more expressive than his supposed sensei. He wore the same simple robes, though his aura was different though, it held an air of darkness…
Guren dropped onto the ground facing the two. She had figured Danzo had some men who were still loyal and merely laying low. Then she had discovered Sora, after a brief clash to test his power it had been clear he would be needed for her plan. But she had not expected him to bring Chiriku with him, he was a Jounin level fighter. Guren could not help the smile that filled her face. Two strong fighters had joined their group…
'Prepare yourself… Orochimaru…'
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