Shino / Hinata's POV (East Forest of Irminsul - Terra)
Hinata, Shino, and the ants journeyed through the forest in relative silence. Shino's beetles and the ants uniquely communicated through chakra and chemicals, a conversation that their host, Shino, was privy to. The ants and his beetles inherently got along, as social creatures with a high level of intelligence and hive social structure gave them much to relate to. Their apparent lack of points of conflict likely aided such. Even the Aburame rarely were able to make multiple hives get along, with only his father being known to achieve such. So this willing interaction was both odd and unique; Shino had never heard of the Aburame clan Kikaichu beetles communicating with anything other than members, and it was certainly intriguing, perhaps even beneficial. He was looking for ways to change his skillset a bit… *1*
The exams had been an utter disappointment to Shino. His defeat by a teammate had been unfortunate and frustrating, simply due to Shino's inability to use some of his best tricks. They were merely too lethal… and others simply not all that useful in the match up. So his loss had been annoying, although Shino was not childish enough to be jealous; he had even been promoted, and by proxy should be thankful; yet being so thoroughly outshined hurt his pride. Shino was determined to be more effective. To not merely be a background character.
Though Shino could scarcely afford to be distracted, they were quickly approaching the threat the ants had seeked for them to quell. It was clear from the increasing volume and strength of vibrations they heard they drew close. And from the scale of the cacophony of sound it was clear their foe would be an impressive one.
As a trained and well-conditioned shinobi, Hinata could travel at speeds the average human could scarcely comprehend. Yet, as he and Hinata rode separate ants along the hunting pack. Shino was sure they traversed the heavily forested area with ease even a shinobi would struggle with. *2* They seemed innately aware of obstacles and the landscape as they traveled, climbing over, around, or even through obstacles with machine-like proficiency. Never stopping or even hesitating, there was no need. They knew where they were and everything that lay there. Something Shino had to admit was quite impressive. Only further fueling his earlier thoughts. However…
Despite the ants' potential usefulness and apparent allied nature, Shino found himself somewhat suspicious. They knew the Okama clan, but if they were truly native to the land, surely such knowledge would be commonplace. They had offered aid as a trade as opposed to charity, which Shino could understand. But they had given scarcely any details of the threat they faced. It also suggested that the ants were not above manipulation. Suggesting perhaps what they had told them, wasn't necessarily the truth. It also seemed strange to Shino, considering their large numbers and size, Shino needed clarification about what could possibly be such a threat to them. So much of one, even their absurd level of numbers made them hesitant to involve themselves…
All members of the Aburame Clan were considered the authority of the world of Entomology. As such, he was well aware of how ants operated, especially when it concerned how they dealt with threats. Ants weren't like humans and would gladly face death for the good of the unit. So, even if a danger was too deadly or costly, they normally would face it fearlessly. They said it would be too costly, but Shino was aware ants respawned absurdly quickly. Unlike what a single human mother could do, an ant queen was capable of much more. A mere month would allow them potentially thousands of troops. All of which would be grown by the end of the year. Furthermore, their naming style seemed less subjective and more objective. Suggesting they weren't the personal type, likely much more dedicated to hive like living than most intelligent creatures to bare. So if they saw themselves as so insignificant, why did their queen hesitate. Surely the threat was worth the risk… Without any more context, the two of them could very well be among the culprits of the kidnapping. And if so Shino would ensure they paid the price…
Shino had shared his concerns with Hinata, who agreed the situation was odd, but she seemed much more optimistic about the ants' "trustworthiness". She also pointed out that even if they should attempt a betrayal, the two of them should be able to repel it with ease. Shino disagreed with her optimism, but with the two of them being as powerful and skilled as they were, he supposed they would be fine regardless of their intent. Besides, they had no other leads to follow anyway. So Shino continued their journey, content to see how things went. But was well on guard, his more pessimistic mind ensuring this endeavor would not be so simple.
Soon, his questions regarding the threat being real were at least assuaged. Which of course suggested the ants were somewhat truthful thus far. However thunderous crashes sounded throughout the forest, some ferocious roars sounding off between each one. So powerful were the echoes that the ground and trees shook and swayed, respectively. Making it clear to him this would not be a trifling battle. With each crash, the ants seemed to become more and more anxious, flinching at the impacts and antennas twitching ferociously. Some of their party even fled as they drew close.
Hinata and Shino exchanged looks as suddenly the party stopped. Some sort of cacophony of crashes was heard just short of their resting place. A thick wall of forest cut them off from a preview of what awaited. The majority of the ants had now fled, but only the leader and one Hinata had ridden stayed for now.
"It is worse than we had feared." The ant spoke in its strange voice. "The threat has now escalated too risky for our nest. It would be too costly to get involved. The Queen 3 would not approve of such." *3*
"As you wish, sir ant, but if I may ask, what do you mean by that?" Hinata interjected politely. Shino allowed it; he was not a social or political butterfly, and Hinata happened to be both. Hopefully that would be useful here, perhaps even win them aid…
"It seems the wolves have left only for one of you to become a threat." The ant seemed to answer with indignant fury. "We will not risk ourselves for your mess. However, I will keep to our word and offer aid should you correct such."
Or not, a shame but not one Shino truly minded. Best not to risk team combat with strange creatures such as these, until they were sure of their authenticness.
Hinata seemed stunned by this, but Shino merely nodded. He had already planted beetles onto the ants to track them and frankly recognized their logic. If they did betray them it would be easy to seek them out again, if such was even necessary. Besides, it seemed clear now that they had been earnest, and this could be related to their friends or the captors who had taken them. The two ants marched off as Hinata and listened to the continued madness momentarily. Both were preparing for what would likely be life-or-death combat.
"Unfortunately, it seems we may have found two of our allies. This is excellent considering our mission and seems timely considering their words. However, the words of the ants suggested they may be in danger… or even the danger themselves?" Shino spoke out, and Hinata hesitantly nodded.
"They mentioned one of us becoming the problem…" Hinata said worriedly. She stared at the thick walls of trees that obscured whatever was happening ahead of them.
"Very confounding," Shino admitted. "However, it is best to see the problem ourselves." Hinata once again nodded, now looking determined.
Shino released his hands from his pocket, his left gloved and right bare. As he did so, several of his various insects flew off into the surrounding area, quickly offering the Aburame an area of control. No one would come close or leave without his knowledge. It wasn't a perfect recon field, given more time and security Shino could make a much more secure and even defensive one. But this would work for now, his allies were crafty and would also set out to set several traps for any foes, all the better to ensure this went smoothly. The traps wouldn't kill immediately but would, over time, drain the victims of all their chakra. They were now as safe as they could be to engage in battle…
As he did so, Hinata activated her Byakugan, only to gasp in shock and suddenly race off toward the situation.
'Hinata is a shy type who rarely takes risks or initiatives unless fully motivated. For her to be shocked and race off suggests our allies may truly need help.' Shino thought as he cursed and followed after her. He would ensure the situation went as they willed.
The two burst into what used to be another section of forest full of trees and shrubs. However, it had been flattened for lack of a better word; it looked like something had rampaged through the area, trees and shrubs were ripped from the ground or seemingly obliterated. The ground around them was full of pits and holes, as if something had also smashed into it. Yet it seemed oddly erratic. However, that was the least remarkable finding in this newly made clearing. For a ginormous Choji stood on the edge of a clearing, seemingly covered in cuts and bruises. His skin was also covered in dark markings, and his eyes were wide open and glowing red as he screamed in unusual fury. He was now the size of a large building and seemed to have a temper much too small for it. The large man raced along the edge of the clearing with shocking speed, punching at the occasional tree. Shino was shocked; Choji, both in attitude and form, was more than Shino had seen. Such wanton destruction and anger were rare for Choji. And his eyes… what had happened to him?
Hinata tapped his shoulder and pointed out a spot a short distance ahead of the raging giant. There was an equally haggard-looking Sakura. The pink-haired woman dodged desperately and could be heard pleading with Choji. Her shouts strained as she desperately dodged and ran from Choji's dogged pursuit. The wear and tear, bruises, and dried blood made it clear that this struggle had been going on for a while. It seemed Sakura was trying to break through to the giant instead of fighting back.
Shino nodded at the Hyuga as the pair raced off without a word. As they did, Sakura stumbled, having missed a branch on the ground, tripped over it, and fell bodily to the ground. She rolled to quickly recover to her credit, but the irate giant had seen the opportunity. Choji had caught up and mercilessly prepared a finishing stomp. Just as the foot closed in, Hinata appeared beneath it, standing in front of the down Sakura. Boldly seeming to defend her even as death by foot squashing approached both. Hinata spun in place even as it seemed hopeless, desperately calling out, "Kaiten!"
Even with Choji's giant foot, the spinning chakra construct held firm and its power and rotation shot the foot back up, making the enlarged Choji stumble back on one leg. Shino appeared above before he could regain his balance and fired off several kunai with paper bombs attached. Each was aimed along Choji's body, the kunai failing to pierce him however proved enough to undo his balance, the giant roaring in shock as he fell to his back. His mere shortfall made the ground shake with a deep rumble.
Shino landed in front of the two women, and with a nod towards all three, they all raced back to the opposite side of the clearing from the giant. Regrouping, they took a second to discuss things as a dazed Choji slowly shook off the explosions that would've turned any normal human asunder. Slowly climbing to his feet while muttering to himself.
"Thanks for the save; I don't think I've ever been so overjoyed to have a backup," Sakura admitted with a sigh. "It's been nothing but hardship since I arrived in this terrible place. How did you all get here? Better yet, do you know why we're here?"
"There is no need to thank us; we could not allow our teammates and comrades to go missing without extending an effort to reclaim them. Naruto's summons was aware of such, and informed said blonde. Naruto then decided to lead us here to save you all. It seems an unknown individual or group was responsible for your taking in the first place, though we cannot be sure why yet." Hinata answered quickly and with a small smile.
"Where is here anyway? It doesn't seem like anywhere geographically I can remember, whole different biome's exist here in a way that contradicts what is known to be possible. Not to mention the wild and plant life is seemingly overgrown to the max. It's like we're in a whole different world…" Sakura asked the two.
"This is all related to summoning clans; apparently, they are entirely from a different world, unlike the standard theory. Not merely hidden somewhere on ours, but somewhere different yet similar. Apparently despite the fact it is different and distinct from ours they exist somewhat in the same space." Shino started to explain.
"A different world?!" Sakura asked, shocked.
Hinata and Shino took a short while to run Sakura through the situation. Explaining their limited knowledge regarding Terra and the summoning system as a whole as well as their secondary mission.
"Great, this is somehow even worse than I had thought. It's been a massive mess ever since I arrived. First I spawned in some swamp and was chased out by some giant lizard clan. Ended up around here and eventually, I managed to find Choji in this messed-up place. Together, we spent a few days surviving; nearly every hour, something either chased or attacked us, so consistent foraging or even sleep was nearly impossible. Leading to the two of us getting exhausted quickly. So much so we were being tracked by those mutts for Kami knows how long. When we were at our weakest, they finally stopped following and attacked. It was… my fault; I was sleeping, and Choji had taken the first watch. By the time I awoke, they had already started to overrun Choji. I assumed he had boldly defending me to ensure my safety. I dove into the battle trying to stop them. But before I could, they managed to subdue and take him away. I was weak, half delirious and I passed out…"
"That's odd indeed," Hinata replied. "Muri said that these summoning clans see us as a commodity. Even just being a summoning clan seems to offer a litany of benefits, and if they weren't interested in that, surely those wolves would've killed and eaten him…"
"Based on his behavior as well as appearance." Shino started as Choji finally climbed to his feet and roared angrily. "They must've somehow gained control over his actions. My friend and teammate is a gentle soul who just so happens to love nature. He would never so carelessly thrash around; it is beneath him." *5*
"That's what I also concluded," Sakura agreed with a grim nod. "I was searching the area relentlessly, but between the amount of ground to cover, and the ever present threat of the inhabitants I moved slowly however. But suddenly I found him, but he wasn't the Choji we all know. He was screaming and raging, was single handedly fighting off giant birds with ease. Turning from giant to normal with ease and precision. I never realized how scary Choji could be…"
"That's troubling," Shino added. "Choji is quite the skilled shinobi but struggles to do a full-sized expansion jutsu. As well as even engaging in battle outside of rage or desperation. Also my friend isn't a stamina man, he would normally wear out by now. Somehow, this trance they've put him in must empower as well as control him. We must aid him, now."
"But how?" Sakura interjected. "I've tried talking to him, but he seems not to care, he even seems keen on killing me... And believe me when I say he's a tank. I haven't seen much of anything even slow him down. He can tear trees from the ground with ease…
"Well, it seems there is a foreign chakra flowing through his chakra system." Hinata chimed in. She had been observing Choji's chakra system during the conversation. "It seems to be slowly mixing with his own, though it's almost too thick to do so easily…" *6*
"If we exhaust his chakra network or allow my allies to drain it, it should be enough to force all of the foreign chakra out as well, hopefully before it fully accumulates. If we fail to do so timely it will likely make reversing the process difficult if not outright impossible. Assuming we do succeed however it should allow the trance to be broken." Shino concluded the thought. "At the very least, it will force him to shrink, at which point we can detain him much easier, and until such a point, we can reverse the effects of whatever ails him. However I must insist you, Sakura, rest for now."
"I can fight-" Sakura objected strongly. Her face showing her anger at being told to step aside. However Shino had no time to be political.
"You're dangerously low on chakra." Shino countered brutally. Sakura's head fell in shame as he continued. "Maybe enough for a short battle, but someone with your combat level and current stamina would only get in the way. I do not mean to be offensive, merely objective." Sakura froze at the logical breakdown, her mind whirling at his blunt words. Shino felt no satisfaction at such, but would not allow his feeling to comprise his logic. "Do not be prideful; it is impressive that you have survived thus far. Even more so you had the bravery to risk your life for someone who means little to you. Make no mistake I do appreciate it, for now allow your superiors to take it from here." His piece said the Aburame raced forward toward Choji, who was now charging them.
"You are a skilled kunoichi, Sakura," Hinata said with an apologetic bow. But you've been through much. Allow the two of us to handle this." With apologies, the Hyuga rushed off to join the battle. Sakura raised a palm to herself, which glowed as she watched the two begin the fight to aid Choji. Her gaze seeming defiant…
Hinata's POV
It felt terrible leaving Sakura behind like that; she had been through so much and seemed desperate to help someone who was not even her teammate. That spoke extensively of her character and inner strength. But Shino was also correct in saying she was exhausted and needed rest. Her physical reserves were low, and Hinata supposed her health was more important than her pride.
Her mind shifted to focus as Choji's earth-shaking gait came close, their friend roaring in rage as he sent a haymaker of a punch right for Shino. The Aburame broke into a cloud of bugs as the fist punched through, the cloud mobbing around the fist. Choji growled as he used his other hand to bat them away, leaving him open; Hinata formed a hand sign as she sought to take advantage of such, calling out her technique with a frown. "Gentle Fist: Precise Beam!" Hinata spun as she slashed the beam into the back of Choji's left knee. Causing the giant to scream in pain as his left knee folded, making him kneel.
Shino suddenly appeared in the sky, standing on what seemed to be a platform of insects; the man then tossed even more paper bomb-tagged kunai, each of which exploded and knocked Choji off balance once again. The large man barely stood, grunting in fury and pain. Hinata followed up with a jab of her palm, sending off an Air Palm, which slammed into Choji's back and helped Shino floor him. The giant fell to his back flat, once again dazed. Shino wasted no time on such weaving hand signs as the dazed Choji attempted to rise.
"Something I didn't get to use in the exams, my elemental chakra nature…" Shino explained as he finished his signs. "Earth Style: Earthen Restraint!" As he bellowed, the earth beneath Choji writhed, several large strands of it wrapping around the wrist and ankles of the giant; it didn't stop there, also wrapping around his waist and neck. Shino then raised his arms above his head, his hoodie writhed as thousands of beetles flowed from it, the insects all surging onto the downed Choji and greedily sucking as much chakra as they could from him.
Hinata also raced in, recognizing Shino's plan, quickly adapting to it, and aiding it. She dropped her hands into a hand sign, mentally thanking Naruto again as three clones formed around her. The four split into two groups of two, running up separate legs of the giant and jabbing with absurd speed as they did. Though their progress was slow, the chakra points enlarged as they were, and they were resistant to Gentle Fist, and each required several attacks to close. Hinata felt it needed to be more practical but was confident it would undoubtedly have an effect if she continued.
Hinata could see thousands of insects feeding upon the giant, but even their combined efforts were slow to affect his chakra like this. She could see it was slowly working on the foreign chakra and his own. But all the while, Choji roared and writhed against his restraints. From the thuds and rumbles of the ground, as well as knowing the strength of the Akimichi, Hinata doubted they could keep him down for long. Suddenly, however, he stopped as Choji chuckled.
"I FORGOT I COULD GO BACK! YOU'RE IN TROUBLE NOW!" The giant called before there was a sudden poof of smoke. Though his voice and tone seemed off, something was different about him. Having been on top of the giant, Hinata and her clones fell to the ground roughly at his disappearance. The three Hinata's sacrificed themselves to soften her landing. Allowing Hinata to be safe, Shino landed from the sky next to her, and the two eyed the cloud of smoke with suspicion. Still trying to figure out what had happened, but certain this was merely the beginning.
Suddenly, two giant feet flew from the cloud of smoke, catching the two of them completely off guard. Shino raised an earth wall to take the brunt. Hinata stepped in front of Shino but behind the wall, also activating Kaiten. Their combined effort barely stopped the blow. It smashed through the weak stone wall and Hinata's Kaiten, sending the two flying back as Choji bodily laughed as he left the cloud of smoke.
"I forgot I could return to normal size; good thing I did, too. You two former friends of mine are rather sneaky attempting to stick and suck me like that." Choji spoke goofily.
"Why are you attacking us?" Shino asked calmly. "I am your friend, a comrade who has bled and shed tears with you."
"Don't worry, buddy! We'll do so again! Just join the masters, and we'll rule this world! All we have to do is serve! You'll never be forgotten again, friend!" Choji laughed merrily.
"Masters…" Hinata said concerned. "You were right…"
"If the true Choji can hear me in their fret not," Shino assured. "I will free you from whoever controls you, as well as punish these so-called mast-" Shino was suddenly taken from view as a giant black blur flew by and snatched him.
Another blur did as well, though this one stopped to face Hinata and Choji. Revealing a lanky, tall, blonde man smiling happily at them. "Ah, trying to kill each other, aye?" Jibachi jokingly said as he flipped the two off. "Fine by us. Kill each other while we torture that shitty Aburame to death~!" The blonde man offered before jumping after Shino.
Hinata went to follow before Choji's giant fist cut off her path. She frowned as she realized Choji, in this odd state, would not allow her to leave with ease. She would have to defeat Choji before she could help Shino.
"Hinata, can you handle Choji on your own!?" Sakura cried as she raced by the two.
"Hai! B-but wait. Certainly, but you're still injured!" Hinata said with worry and determination in equal measure.
"You'll have to trust me! That weirdo said they intend to torture and kill him! He'll need help!" Sakura refuted, not stopping her pace for even a moment.
Sakura wasted no more time explaining, racing off after Shino. Hinata fearlessly dropped into a stance as Choji became large again. As much as Hinata was worried about Shino and Sakura, she had no time to help them. She would merely have to trust that they would hold their own. Perhaps she could defeat Choji quickly…
"Only one now! The masters won't be pleased, but they said to bring any humans!" Choji roared.
Hinata merely prepared to free her ally with some tough love. Though she had the oddest suspicion, it would be more challenging than she had thought.
Shino's POV
Shino felt annoyed as his new foes carried him away. The large man wasn't even all that quick; he had merely caught him off guard. Shino, however, wasn't one to crack and allowed several allies to sneak aboard. He drew and trusted a kunai for the man's neck. The man chuckled before throwing him with both arms like a lawn dart.
Shino was shocked by how hard he was thrown, the force causing him to nearly collide with a tree headfirst. He was only saved by a last-minute substitution, though the log in his place was smashed to bits against the tough bark. Shino panted on a branch just above his potential death, staring at the opposition in front of him.
The two were dressed in standard gear for Iwa Jounin. The blonde one smiled cruelly, while the one with black hair and a beard glared hatefully.
The bearded one, seemingly the leader of the two, spoke first. "Your answer will not save your life but will affect your death." He spat bitterly. "Are you a member of the cretinous Aburame clan? Do not try to lie to me, boy; you will likely be dying regardless."
"Of course he is!" Jibachi said with joy! "Those freaks all look the same, dark brown hair, thick clothing to hide their disgusting bodies, and those tacky shades. Sucks to be born a freak, aye? Though if you renounce your clan and family now, we may offer some sort of mercy to you yet!"
As he spoke, Shino subtly checked himself for the number of allies present and injuries. "Renounce? No, I am a member of the Aburame clan; in fact, I am the heir of it. And will one day lead the very clan you openly hate. In fact, I am intending to make you answer for your words regarding my family…"
"So you are…" Kurobachi said seriously. "Then prepare yourself, Aburame. For you have encountered your rivals and bane of the Aburame! The Kamizuru Clan!"
Shino's eyes narrowed behind his sunglasses. He was outnumbered by Jounin, who was part of the Kamizuru clan. He had heard of them somewhere before… but where? "Why do you quarrel with us?" Shino stalled. The others would need time to deal with Choji before they could help. It would be better if he took care of them himself…
"You rats slaughtered us during the last war!" Jibachi spat. *7*
"Truthfully, it matters little," Kurobachi answered. "We recognize you are in no way connected to such and that almost anything in war is justifiable. As mere soldiers, we have no free will regarding such. However, it led to the downfall of our clan. Regardless of the reason, as a proud member of the Kamizuru clan, I must avenge the offense. Something you all will answer for one day. An eye for an eye, and you will be the eye today…"
"I see your point," Shino answered. "I cannot allow you revenge, but I assure you I will not die today." He replied that their information was new and somewhat concerning but, for now, unimportant. Shino had to help his friends so these two men would fall…
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Sasuke's POV (Northern Mountains of Irminsul - Terra)
Sasuke and Muri traveled with their captive in relative silence. It was clear to the Uchiha the small raccoon was bothered by the earlier battle. Or at very least his conduct and decisions during such. Before, it had almost incessantly spoken, seemingly a social being that needed to fill the silence. Now, it only offered the occasional info about where to go and how to tend to their captive. It tended to… Spleen Feaster with oddly tender care. Ensuring the weasel did not escape but doing its best to do so with great kindness and gentleness. It made it clear what the issue was for the creature. *8*
Muri was obviously a softy and objected to what he felt was cruel and needless behavior. However, Sasuke wasn't bothered by such; he wasn't blind to it. In fact, Sasuke readily admitted to the moral compromise of his actions. That battle had been unneeded, and by proxy, the death of their foes had been wasteful. Sasuke simply was willing to live with the sin; it was a small price to pay to ensure his family's safety. To hesitate would be to reject his entire ideology. And Sasuke had too much to suffer death and or defeat.
As a child, he had promised to do whatever it took to protect and raise the Uchiha. Now, he must stick to that road; many who would oppose or hamper him may die by his own hand. But for Sasuke, it was merely the cost of his ambition. He may commit innumerable sins and may cross the lines of many. But Sasuke would do so as long as it served his clan. Such was the duty of the Clan Head of the Uchiha.
As such, Sasuke accepted the awkward nature with ease. Muri may judge him as he pleases; his opinion matters little. In fact, silence was preferable for what came next, for Sasuke may need to act harshly to ensure the best result…
Spleen Feaster and Muri quickly led them back to a massive cave suspiciously clear of ice yet coated in snow. There was so much snow, and the entrance seemed entirely buried. Sasuke took the lead with Muri, carrying the tie-up, and now gagged Spleen Feaster behind him. As soon as they drew close to the massive entrance, its apparent defenses were launched. The enormous pile of snow burying the entrance fell apart as dozens of weasels burst. Several more crawled from cracks and crevices around the entrance; the Snow Weasels growled and hissed in anger as they tensed and seemed likely to attack the group.
"Muri, display the hostage," Sasuke ordered as he tensed, prepared to do his best to defend them if the tactic failed.
Muri did as asked silently, holding up the tied-up Spleen Feaster above his large form's head; he removed the gag to allow Spleen Feaster to speak, who did not disappoint. "My Children!" It bellowed. "I have been captured! Free me at once, then we feast!"
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The Snow Weasels seemed incensed further by this order. The group slowly moved forward in sync. Their pure killing intent weighed heavily on Muri, though Sasuke had been expecting such.
Sasuke reacted swiftly, cuffing Spleen Feaster and raising a kunai to his throat above his head. "I would not follow that order; based on your reaction, many of you are incredibly loyal to Spleen Feaster here. Well, I assure you if you attempt to kill us, it will lead to his death. I am solely responsible for the death of your hunting party earlier, and now have your leader. Test me if you wish." He warned the group, summoning Besmirched Flambe with a flick of the wrist and his Sharingan with a blink.
The weasels froze with that rebuke, seemingly unsure what to do. Spleen Feaster thrashed within its binding, screaming indignant rage. "Screw that; kill these humans slowly!" Sasuke did not use the verbal rebuke again, instead using his free hand to slash Spleen Feaster's face shallowly. Silencing its complaint with a shriek of pain as his fur was singed off his face. Somehow causing both an audible uproar from the guards as well as a strong silence.
"Perfect," Sasuke said, pleased. "We've established you do not want your leader dead, nor do you wish to cause it. Do not get it mistaken, I'll do so without hesitation or remorse. So here are my demands: the highest ranking member of your clan shall escort me and my friend here through your home; once we've seen everything, you'll offer us directions to the closest clan, at which point we'll leave dear Spleen Feaster with you all safe and sound."
Spleen Feaster maintained silence as the large group of weasels discussed it. Eventually, one step forward, it was a larger one covered in scars and gray fur.
"I am the one named Rib Sucker. *9* I am the eldest member of the Snow Weasel Clan. I am most suited to handle this situation, and we will accommodate your demands. But will feast upon you should you show weakness or betray your word." Rib sucker offered.
Sasuke felt his left eye twitch in annoyance as Muri silently chuckled. 'Rib Sucker and Spleen Feaster… these truly are beasts.' Sasuke thought disappointedly. "That is only as expected. Begin leading us through your home."
"First, I must ask if you are looking for something particular." Rib Sucker spoke with wisdom his name would not suggest he was capable of. "It may save us time or smooth matters over."
Sasuke smirked, happy to clash their mind with something with intelligence. "We are here due to a rumor, I'm sure many of you know. As you can both see and doubtless have heard, humans have been summoned into Irminsul. We have followed to find them and find out who has done such."
Rib Sucker nodded his head slowly. "I could promise you with ease that the only humans we have run into have been yourself. I assume our hunting party attempted to consume you and failed. I recognize that a human-like yourself looks down on such, but it is merely how we live."
Sasuke's Sharingan did allow him to read body language, but reading animals versus persons was night and day. "I would check anyway. You may be as honest as you say, but I cannot take this risk."
Rib Sucker sighed at such. "I was hoping to avoid such; within our home are our possessions and young; if you were to venture inside, even with the blessing of Spleen Feaster, there is a decent chance my Kin will attack. They do not have the same wisdom as I do." The weasel explained.
Sasuke barely reacted. "I will check, and I expect your compliance. Make no mistake; I do not need it. Force my hand, and all parties involved will perish—survival of the fittest, as it were."
Rib Sucker eyed the Uchiha down before eyeing his leader. "The choice is yours, Spleen Feaster. Should you order it, we shall kill these two regardless of price; that includes your life. Or shall we cooperate?"
"THIS DAMN HUMAN! COOPERATE! I SHALL NOT DIE!" Spleen Feaster roared with angry indignance.
Rib Sucker nodded and gestured with his head for their group to follow. Sasuke and Muri did so at a distance; though Sasuke summoned a Shadow Clone to watch their back. Certain if the weasels saw the chance they'd go for the kill. Slowly, the small group was allowed through the massive crowd of guards. Traversing their home with a tense promise of violence.
Sasuke drew close to Muri and whispered to the large-form raccoon. "Can we take them at their word?" He asked Muri silently.
"Within reason," Muri whispered back. "Most clans wouldn't risk their leader. However, his warning was no joke. Many of the Irminsul inhabitants are more primal than I and others. Especially these savages. So there is a chance they forgo common sense and kill us fully."
"As opposed to partially killing us?" Sasuke asked with a raised brow. A small amount of a smile showing on his face.
"How are you possibly relaxed?!" Muri whispered harshly. "Do you enjoy the threat of death or the spectacle of violence?!"
"No, neither," Sasuke answered with ease. "It's only that I have spent years preparing myself to do what's necessary for my ambition. Regardless of odds or likelihood, I continue to move forward. For it is as simple as simply doing what I must." He continued. "That is what it means to be a man with ambition. One that refuses to give up on their dreams, even if they must crush someone else's…"
The two went silent as they explored the cave system, both recognizing that focus may very well spare their lives here. Behind them trailed about a dozen weasels, who seemed calm now but pointedly kept close. In front of them, they saw several small holes being used by various weasels. It was clear they were utterly surrounded.
"Those tunnels lead to our individual bedding areas," Spleen Feaster explained bitterly. "They have too few passengers for you humans to fit. Even if your friends were brought there, I assure you, you would not want to see it."
"Indeed." Rib Sucker chimed in. "Though, as I stated, we have seen no humans other than yourself. If we did we'd be preparing meals and not sending out hunting parties."
"No food storage or prisons?" Sasuke asked bluntly.
"No need!" Spleen Feaster answered arrogantly. "We hunt for all our food. Besides foolish human, do you not know meat spoils, I wonder if your's ever will have the chance too…" He finished in what seemed to be what he thought was a subtle threat.
"Perhaps so," Sasuke replied calmly. "We'll see…"
The group continued in silence as they traversed the cave system. The tunnels were bare except for the floors, covered in an odd furs that were cut roughly, as if they were ripped off their owners instead of flayed. Seemingly being mere skins poorly sewn together. There were also several human effigies on occasion. Only bones by now, but had certainly once been macabre displays of rare catches. And Sasuke couldn't help but notice the number of Weasels slowly increased as they traveled. Making the idea of a peaceful, noncommittal retreat after this unlikely as hell.
The crowd in front and behind them seemed to grow as Sasuke dutifully checked each corridor. Even ordered weasels to clear out the ones he and Muri couldn't access. The Uchiha were not blind to the growing tension of their innumerable enemies before them.
It seemed that as their numbers increased, so did their agitation. For they writhed and sounded with fury as time progressed. Slowly, they drew closer and bolder, Spleen Eater encouraging them all the while. Muri seemed incredibly panicked, seemingly realizing how unlikely their chances of escape would be.
Sasuke, however, did not mind; he had known even with a hostage, these foul creatures' patience would not hold. It would've been foolish to come this deep without a backup plan. Besides, it was becoming clear Rib Sucker had been honest with his declaration of their innocence. But before he could do so…
"Rib Sucker, was it?" Sasuke asked patiently.
"Yes, filthy human." Rib Sucker replied.
"It's become clear you do not hold my allies. However, I must ask if you could point me to the nearest clan. I intend to return your leader and investigate them." Sasuke explained.
"Fortunately you have seen reason. The closest clan to us would be our rivals, the Moon Crescent Bear Clan. They are shockingly close to us, merely southward a hundred or so meters, they've been steadily drawing closer as our war intensifies. We'd be happy to escort you once you've freed Spleen Feaster. Hopefully, you are as much a menace to them as you were to us." Rib Sucker offered.
The Uchiha made a mental note of such before Sasuke stopped walking, everyone inside the cave system stopping as well. "That sounds kind, Muri, the weasel, if you will." Muri handed him over as Sasuke eyed the weasels gleefully, forming a large group as they stared hungrily at the two of them. Seemingly more excited for their living shield to be gone. "Though it seems you plan to devour us regardless."
"It's a shame you didn't believe me." Rib Sucker said sadly suddenly. "Could've lived longer. We of the Snow Weasel Clan often switch leadership; while a tragedy to lose our leader, the weasels will settle if it is to enjoy the exotic treat of human flesh."
"A trap, then," Sasuke answered. As Muri panicked, Sasuke merely prepared his countermeasure.
"RIP THEM APART!" Spleen Feaster gleefully shouted.
"GO!"
Sasuke merely sighed as he placed a hand on Muri. Still holding onto Spleen Feaster, who was raving for their death madly all the while. "Shame I had intended to keep my word. Though it seems your own was not to be trusted. No matter, a Uchiha always has a backup plan. Hopefully, the bears have what I'm looking for, have more sense than yourselves, and enjoy your leader as a welcome gift. Goodbye." As Sasuke finished, the group leaped through the air. So numerous and massive the falling cloud of death there would be no defending or dodging.
However, it mattered little once Sasuke and the group burst into smoke. Leaving behind nothing but a pile of confused weasels.
Rib Sucker could merely gawk as he realized the group had lost their meal and their leader. They would be angry and in need of a scapegoat. Perhaps a certain elder who had led them down this path…
He trembled as the confusion of the pile and other hungry weasels gave way to anger… their hungry and angry eyes locked onto the elder weasel. He began to mutter a defense, it was a doomed effort, and it soon gave way to screams. As the Snow Weasels started their promised meal, though their course had changed wildly… *10*
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Naruto / Yuno's POV (South Swamps of Irminsul - Terra)
Naruto could only gape at the two. Shocked that he had found them so soon and that they were oddly enough hostile. That hesitation nearly cost him dearly, for Yuno closed in with shocking speed, using her unique dagger to nearly behead him. Naruto ducked it clumsily, leaving him open to a punch from Kiba on his face. He stumbled back, suffering a slash to his back from Yuno. It cut him shallowly but had nearly been more devastating. She attempted a stab to his legs, but Naruto caught her by her wrist and, using her as a projectile, chucked her into Kiba. Sending the two sprawling in a ball as Naruto caught up with the situation. Preparing himself as they untangled themselves.
'The two of them just came at me hard, they were certainly playing for keeps. Why the hell would the two of them be so mad at me? They've always been weird, but this is just strange… they said something about masters earlier… are they somehow under control?' Naruto thought as the two stood and chuckled with apparent glee.
"So it's just as you said…" Kiba said to Yuno with a smile. "This damn freak really is strong, the same kinda monster as Garra…" He taunted Naruto. *11* "Not to mention our good friend here is holding back, go head if you wish. I'll just make beating you all the more fun.
"Now, now," Yuno interjected. "Freak or not, he's interesting, and the Masters would surely love it if we brought him back. He would be essential for their plan… plus I wanna play with him…"
"Ok, what the hell is going on?" Naruto asked, utterly confused. "I get you under control, but why are you acting so damn strange."
"Strange, he says!" Kiba barked with a laugh. "He doesn't understand at all! The Masters may have picked poorly. But hey were supposed to bring him, surely they won't mind him being only a little dead."
"Perish the thought, Kiba." Yuno chided. "Besides, he still thinks like a human. Once they get along with him, he'll be more like us…"
"More like you? What the hell does that mean? Better yet, who the hell is this master, and where can I find and kick his or her ass?" Naruto asked angrily. The image of his friends being forcefully controlled infuriated him to his core. And their odd behavior only fed in to his indignant rage.
"More like us indeed, Blondie! See, once the masters have their influence on you, it shows in many ways! Firstly, it rids us of useless emotions while enhancing the ones that make us more… primal, let's say. It shows strangely, making us less humane and displaying the traits we bury deep inside. For example… FANG OVER FANG!" Kiba screamed as he suddenly launched himself at Naruto.
The Blonde reacted quickly, raising his hands and catching the blur of Kiba; he slid back from the force as Kiba, menacingly glared at his eyes. "Thanks to them, I can admit I'm jealous of you; I'm a damn clan heir; you were nobody and I respected that, even before Shikamaru took up for you. I saw you oddly enough as a rival of mine, yet in the exams, you outshined me, made me look pathetic... I'm so damn envious of you it hurts, you damn Blonde bastard!" Kiba screamed, then smiled. "Not only does it make me admit -THAT!" Kiba roared as he flexed and sent Naruto stumbling back as he landed on his feet. "It makes us stronger and faster as well…" Kiba finished. "And it's gonna make me enjoy hurting you just a little more.
Naruto flinched as he drew Riptide and deflected several kunai from behind. Yuno smiled at him from behind teasingly. "For me, it has enhanced some deeper urges… maybe once we beat you within an inch of your life, I'll show you…" She promised.
'Kiba's always been competitive, but it was always friendly before. And while I may have outshined him in the exams, he'd never admit such. Plus, being openly jealous is something I just can't see happening. He's so damn confident just like me. Equally as confusing is Yuno, Neji has said that Yuno has always been a flirt, but I never saw it, now even I can notice it. Is this controlling technique affecting their personalities? I mean their acting pretty damn different… maybe if I beat them they'll be freed? Best idea I can think of in the middle of combat.'
"Naruto you look so cute while thinking so hard…" Yuno taunted with an airy chuckle. "I wonder, my little Blondie, if you've gotten any better at Genjutsu since we last fought…" Yuno asked.
Naruto's eyes widened in shock. "Shit-" Naruto was suddenly batted away by an unseen force; Naruto jumped up into the treetops, eyes wildly scanning for both of them. But now he couldn't see either of them. However, he heard a whistle of air and, trusting his instincts, jumped to another branch as the last one was cut free from the tree from seemingly nothing, he dodged such but was once again sent flying into a tree. Naruto couldn't even land, as he impacted the branch he felt a powerful blow hit his ribs, nearly breaking them with its force.
'I have no choice, not sure how to save them, but for now, I gotta stop them from kicking my ass!' Naruto thought as he prepared to fight back in earnest.
Naruto fell toward the water but managed to catch another branch and swing himself upward. As he did, he summoned several shadow clones around him, each flying up toward the tops of trees. Naruto watched as several were seemingly turned apart by nothing before he landed himself below where they had been slain.
He flinched realizing this would be hard, before Naruto suffered another slash on his left arm. He wildly struck out but only met air, instead cursing as he was kicked from the branch. The male chuckled, giving away the fact that it was Kiba.
'Just my luck, a Genjutsu and Taijutsu specialist are jumping me. I'm still lousy at Genjutsu, and knowing Yuno, removing it wouldn't be easy anyway. Worse yet, they're both so damn fast; they are on an entirely different level than I saw at the exams. Gonna have to take them seriously.' Naruto's eyes seemed to shine as he suddenly stomped out with his feet, the impact of his fall-shattering bark as he managed to stand on the trunk horizontally.
Naruto did not think, it would be a waste here. Instead, trusting some sort of inner instinct, he lashed out blindly with his fist, smiling as he heard Kiba's pained grunt. He raised his arms into a guard stance as Yuno suddenly appeared, a diving double kick from her drove Naruto into the swamp water below. Both disappeared as they chuckled at such a thing.
However, Naruto merely waited patiently under the murky water's surface. He had hoped for this to happened. To create some space, preferably with water. It would surely allow him too… THERE! Two separate random ripples of water had formed. It must be them!
Naruto activated his trap as they landed. Suddenly, two chains of Naruto burst from the muddy depths, both links ended in a crowd of Naruto's blindly reaching out in all directions. The odd human chains blinded grabbed at the ripples, a shocked gasp from both ripples made it clear his plan had worked. Another ten surrounded the submerged Blonde, and all of them called out with defiance. "KAI!" *13*
Naruto blinked and smiled as he saw his clones now grappling both Kiba and Yuno. He was free from the Genjutsu! He then grabbed the bottom-most clones of the chains from underwater and, with a grunt of effort, lifted both with a hand each and shook both chains as hard as he could. This resulted in the chains of blond writhing through the air, the momentum flowing through the chain of Naruto's sending each up and then violently down. Slamming both Kiba and Yuno deep into the water below. Naruto smirked as he kicked himself up to breach the water, landing on it with focused eyes.
The two of them breached gasping for air. However, Naruto appeared before Kiba first and smacked him back into the water with a double handed smash. Naruto then drew Riptide and deflected a desperate knife lunge from Yuno, the force of his deflect sending her sprawling onto the surface of the water partially sinking and struggling to her feet, before she could however Naruto stepped over her and thrust Riptide at her.
Naruto stopped shy of plunging his blade into her throat. Both were frozen as they stared into each other's eyes. While Naruto tried to find any awareness in her, Yuno's mind whirled from within. Seemingly being awoken from the similar situation she found herself in.
Yuno's POV
Yuno stopped inwardly screaming as her body froze, finally stopping its attack on her own friend. Yuno also froze inwardly, the scene before her taking her back to a vivid memory of hers.
But instead of Naruto with a blade to her throat, it had been Sasuke. Shortly after the failed coup of their Clan, the two of them were introduced. Before, they had been distant cousins and a large and varied family; now, they were two of the last remaining loyal Uchiha. The two of them would represent the newest generation of Uchiha and decide how the clan would be perceived in the future. It only made sense for them to be friends in her mind.
So Yuno, stubborn and determined as ever, decided to befriend the equally stubborn and likely newly traumatized Sasuke. Yuno missed their clan but hadn't been all that close to them. She was only half Uchiha and as such they were not even within the main grounds. So her mother and her had never truly minded. Sasuke however had seemed broken from the ordeal. But the male Uchiha had proven steadfast and focused on his goal, so much so that he seemed somewhat unhappy about it. Yuno often worried he would never be, and she was determined to break through to him both for him and herself.
The only method that was successful for her was training with him. It cooled Sasuke's temper and earned his respect, two things necessary to becoming close to him. Though often, their spars ended the same way.
Sasuke was often described as a once-in-a-lifetime genius, one that nearly rivaled his older brother. Yuno was skilled in her own right but not nearly on the same level. Nor did she intend to other be a prodigy. As such, often, Yuno ended their spars at the end of a practice blade from Sasuke, a position Naruto now held. It was odd that Naruto reminded her of him, but all the same the vivid reminder of who she was punched through her cloudy, smoke-filled mind.
Yuno gasped as she realized she was free. However, a vile feeling slowly encompassed her. They were regaining control! She needed to punch through it somehow and quickly! If only she could reprogram herself…
"NARUTO!" Yuno cried desperately. "A MIRROR OR SOMETHING NOW!"
Naruto certainly did not understand, but he quickly removed and held out his headband. Freshly polished as usual, it reflected the light from the sun. Allowing Yuno to see her own reflection, Sharingan's spinning wildly and looking scared.
Yuno offered no thanks, merely glaring her Sharingan eyes into the reflection as she activated a Sharingan Genjutsu on herself. Her chakra flooded into her system and combated itself. Yuno felt pain from all over; it was blinding. She was certain she was screaming but couldn't hear or even think.
The darkness that weighed on her body and mind was quickly fading. It seemed her ploy worked, and she had freed herself… she was tired…
She needed to help Naruto with Kiba as well… but first, she'd get some sleep… *14*
Naruto's POV
Naruto watched, utterly perplexed, as Yuno slumped over. Seemingly unconscious, he caught her and stared befuddled at the unconscious woman. 'Alright, that happened… convenient, but not sure why or how. Need to wrap this up quickly, see what I can do for her…' Before Naruto could ponder it, he heard a splash, and a roaring Kiba breached the water and shook access water from himself as he stood on the surface. 'Well, still got him to worry about.' Naruto thought grimly as he summoned a clone to carry Yuno off to a more giant branch nearby and turned to face Kiba.
"One down, one to go," Naruto called with a smile. Trusting this Kiba would still be as hot headed as he remembered his friend being.
"It's better this way anyway. I wanted something personal! Let's settle it! Let's see which of us are truly stronger!?" Kira ranted as he crouched low.
"I really don't care which of us is stronger," Naruto replied. "But I didn't come here merely to let you kick my ass. We're going home. Regardless of the new personality."
"Yes, to the master home, we shall. Besides, I'm tired of being second string; it's time to be the alpha I always have been." Kiba taunted as he and Naruto rushed in to begin their fight in earnest.
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Lee's POV (Eastern Forest of Irminsul - Terra)
Lee tensed as the formerly friendly Okama slowly surrounded him. All the while, Suzumebachi laughed cruelly. Lee eyed the odds and realized he was surrounded by ten clan members and Suzumebachi, who even while laughing, pointed a finger at him. She clearly intended to let Okama take him on while she offered support. It would be dangerous; however, if she landed that sting again, the gates wouldn't save him. He couldn't reopen the Second Gate after all.
"I'll admit, I've never met a Genin as strong as you. Suppose the age program wasn't so worthless for a mere upstart like you to nearly beat me." Suzumebachi panted arrogantly. "Luckily, your foolish decision not to kill once you had the chance has now returned to haunt you. The very clan that protected you now will tear you apart, and if you so much as forget about me for even an instant, I'll make you join them…"
"I will not allow such; I intend to punish you for this wanton cruelty," Lee vowed.
"Let's see you smash your friends to prove it!" Suzumebachi roared. "Beat him near death, then bring him to me; worry not for your lives!"
The Okama wordlessly heeded her words. Three transformed into a bear, wolf, and snake, respectively. Four turned into bruiser forms, and the last three, oddly enough, put their palms to the ground and seemed to focus intently on it.
'This is problematic; with this many opponents of unknown ability and strength, it'll be difficult to defeat them, watch out for the Jounin, and do so without harming them long term.' Lee pondered as he lowered himself and prepared to rush Suzumebachi. 'Surely, if I take her out, they'll be freed!' "Youthful Wild Spear!" Lee called as he launched himself like the namesake of the technique. This surprised the oncoming wave of Okama, allowing Lee to fly past the bruisers and transform. He drew close to a shocked Suzumebachi, who stumbled back in shock.
However, just as Lee drew close to her, the ground in front of her bubbled before a wall of raw clay burst from beneath. Lee crashed into it and nearly broke through. Aiming a punch for Suzumebachi's face. However, arms formed in the clay grabbed Lee and pulled him from itself. *15* It then chucked Lee towards the transformed bear.
Lee adapted quickly, flipping around in the air and thrusting his palm into the large bear's chest. "Youthful Wild Wave!" Lee called as the bear suddenly stumbled back, losing his bear form, returning to his original one, and collapsing unconscious.
Lee flinched as he caught a snake; however, the creature merely hissed with joy, wrapping it around his arm. Lee cried out as a numb pain spread up from it but focused as he saw a bruiser draw close. Gritting his teeth through the pain, Lee slammed his own arm through the mess hall floor, driving the snake through it by proxy as he called out with effort. "Leaf Whirlwind!" Using his arm as leverage, Lee managed the spinning kick to clip the incoming bruiser's face, and another ribs knocking out two more instantly. However, trusting his instincts, Lee grunted as he pushed off the ground, using raw strength to fly into the air. This allowed him to narrowly avoid a landing with Suzumebachi, who growled as she glared at him.
Lee smiled back, enjoying her frustration, but was stopped as his legs were suddenly encompassed. He looked at his feet to see two strands of clay wrapped around his feet; before he could react, the strands pulled him onto the ground violently. Lee spits out the blood at the impact as his body was wracked with pain. Lee attempted to stand, but the wolf Okama bit his shoulder and tried to wrestle him to the ground; Lee resisted his efforts with raw strength but was overwhelmed as the three bruisers wrapped him up, and transformed Okama each grabbed a limb. Soon, the wolf and bruisers had Lee restrained, each holding a limb as the limping Suzumebachi approached.
Lee growled as he desperately attempted to wrestle free. However, Suzumebachi quickly closed the distance, punching Lee in the ribs with a painful crunch; Lee gasped aimlessly and momentarily stopped his resistance.
"Lee!" Muuni's voice called out, full of concern. She had crawled back up to the mess hall through a hole in the floor. She was bloodied and clearly injured and had significantly struggled to make it back here. "Remember what I taught you! Ninshu is the key!"
"Feel no shame, strange young man. You may have failed not only yourself and your village but also Okama." Suzumebachi said mockingly as she theatrically held up a finger. "But truthfully, you could've never been expected to defeat an Iwa Jounin of the Kamizuru clan. But fret not, soon all of that won't matter to you… Wasp Style: Domineering Sting!" She cried with joy as she lunged at Lee.
Lee was not despairing or panicking, however. Gai sensei had long taught him he would achieve nothing while working under fear or despair. So, as she monologued, Lee calmly pressed his palms to two of the bruisers, preparing his Ninshu to take them out.
But regardless of how he reacted, she would land her venomous blow. Lee couldn't counteract the effects again, and Ninshu would allow him to land his own blow, but it would not allow him to stop hers. She would hit him somewhere, and then the venom would spell his doom. But why had Muuni seemed so confident that the answer lay before him? What had she said about Ninshu?
"Ninshu is fundamentally different from jutsu, which you humans use. For one reason or another, your species is specially able to use chakra in that way. Your bodies have complex and large chakra pathways, allowing you to use and develop chakra within your body and use it in countless ways. However, other species like us raccoons could not feasibly use jutsu as humans do. Our pathways are much simpler and tiny, used purely to fuel our body but not substantial enough to use it as wastefully as humans. Instead, we use the chakra around us; we can manipulate it to a certain extent by using our meager reserves in a specific way. It is why we are such skilled clay manipulators. This is certainly more limited than Ninjutsu, but if used properly, it can be much more versatile; it is said the leader of the Okama is an utter master of Ninshu. So much so he can supposedly reflect chakra, though with how rarely it battles, it could be a mere rumor. Regardless, I doubt someone like you could achieve such a thing."
'Ninshu has similarities to Ninjutsu, but the base mechanics are different. Reflecting on the chakra would be ideal, but how do we go about it?' Lee wondered as he began his counter; there was no time for hesitation. Lee activated Youthful Wild Wave, instantly knocking the two guards holding his arms. Lee grasped his right arm with his left hand as he began using his chakra to manipulate the chakra in the air. 'I have to reject her venom completely, or else I lose! I can't waste time pondering how to do it! Merely have to do it; I'll use the chakra around me as a hammer and send her chakra back to the sender!' Lee decided as he thrust his fist at her finger.
"Too late! It doesn't matter where I sting you! YOUR MINE!" Suzumebachi roared triumphantly. *16*
"Youth Hammer!" Lee called as the two techniques met. Neither was a powerful blow, so they tapped lightly for a mere instant. But there was a hiss of air as chakra clashed. Suddenly Suzumebachi froze. She stumbled back before falling to the ground stiffly. Seemingly unable to even stand now.
"What?! What have you done to me!" Suzumebachi screamed from the ground, now somehow paralyzed.
"I am not the most intelligent man, but if my opponent bluntly tells me their technique and how it works, even I'm capable of finding a counterplay," Lee answered frankly. "My Ninshu allowed me to send your venomous chakra back at you. I imagine you can't control yourself, and as such, it is merely paralyzing you as a backfire effect. I sincerely hope it is not permanent."
"That should be impossible. There is no way you managed to do that in the heat of battle?!" Suzumebachi roared.
"I do not believe in impossibilities," Lee countered. "Through the power of youth and effort, nearly anything can be achieved." Lee glanced around the room, noticing the Okama were now mumbling to themselves and reacting to shock at their surroundings. They all resumed their original forms, and the clay manipulators worked to remove it; all of them were glancing at the two but seemed aware enough of the situation to leave it to him. 'So they have been freed and remember everything, how fortunate.'
"It seems Mishiro was wise to send me." A female voice cut through the surprise. Lee warily looked up to see an odd redhead female in a crop top, and tights march into the mess hall with utter confidence. "Names Leifazu Uzumaki, normally by now, I'd be killing many of you. But Mishiro was clear about gathering the goons first. So I'll be taking that popsicle of a woman there. That said, rest assured I'm sure she'll order me to hunt you all down later. It'll be fun to upset the bitch a bit~!"
Lee frowned at her cavalier attitude and faced off against the woman. "You must be her comrade; I will not allow you or her to leave this place. You have, without a doubt, shown yourselves to be untrustworthy, and she has threatened the life of my friends. I would have her answer for that. Due to such I must reject your request."
"I wasn't asking," Leifazu said, shocking Lee as she stood beside him. Lee felt a weight of dread settle on him and reacted defensively, jumping back. 'She's much faster than the other woman!.'
"Shame too; a battle with a man like you would surely be somewhat fun, exciting at the very least; I enjoy killing the strong as much as laying with 'em." Leifazu then bent over to pick up the now unconscious Suzumebachi. She purposely swung her rear as she did, knowing Lee would be watching closely.
Lee felt surprise and embarrassment fill him all at once. Gai sensei had trained a gentleman, and to leer at even an enemy was shameful. He whipped his head to the side violently to give her modesty. Before it occurred to him how foolish taking his eyes off them was! However, as he looked back, both women were gone… *17*
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A / Onoki's POV (Hidden Cloud / Hidden Stone Village)
A smiled to himself as his group journeyed home in the style he always traveled. The Raikage had long trained his men on how to treat him and present themselves. The Jounin marched around him like an army, in sync and tirelessly. The lesser ranks carried the carriage A rode on by hand. The Anbu trailed them visibly but at the edges of the group. Purposefully showing their full might as they made the journey home. Which would be horrifying to see such a force openly marching. It would surely make a boring trip more entertaining!
The spectacle was usually enough to keep A in a good mood; however, today was unnecessary. The exams had gone poorly initially, and even his impressive Samui was performing poorly. Yet none of that mattered either. His spies had discovered a pretty juicy bit of info.
Several members of the Hidden Leaf Village had gone missing during the exams. The exact number and specific members missing couldn't be verified… well except one. One that filled A with anticipation and wonder, the jinchuriki of the Leaf was missing…
Onoki's POV
"Is what you say true?" The Tsuchikage of the Stone asked, his face matching his village's moniker. "This is nothing to report lightly…"
"Well, we can't be certain yet, uh sir," Akatsuchi replied jovially. "Our spies did report such, but as I'm sure you're aware, it could be mere speculation or rumor. Though personally, I believe it! Looking back, there did seem to be some notable folks missing during the party. A shame too, the samurai threw a shockingly enjoyable party…"
"Focus, you fool!" Onoki snapped. "So the information suggests the jinchuriki of the Kyuubi is missing?"
"Sir, it seems so; the Leaf even left in a hurry. And our spies confirmed a secret meeting between Hiruzen the Hokage and Mifune General of the Land of Iron. Certainly seems to suggest something was wrong. Something wrong enough they left before the others could hear of it. And if it was true, it would be wise to leave; even among the great villages, the Leaf has many enemies." Akatsuki replied.
"Of course, it would be foolish to not even consider a move if this was true. The Leaf has always been a fearsome foe, not only for their annoying exceptional shinobi but because the Kyuubi is arguably the strongest of the tailed beast. A subtle trick from that Hashirama bastard that haunts us all to this day. But if it was gone…" Onoki chuckled dryly. "Better yet, that young man in particular being gone would be most opportune for everyone…"
"Naruto Uzumaki?" Akatsuchi asked, confused. "Besides his status as jinchuriki, he seems unremarkable to me, sir, if not a tad bit entertaining."
"How short people's memories are…" Onoki mumbled to himself. "A blonde male, with considerable power without even using his beast, who just so happens to be a jinchuriki. Nothing jumping out at you?"
"Hmm, I suppose he almost looks like that wretched Minato… but he's an Uzumaki. Besides, surely no father would be as cold as imprisoning a beast within their child." Akatsuchi said with apparent disbelief.
Onoki sighed with deep annoyance. "Close but far as usual, our village is fortunate enough to have the hardy and loyal type of citizens. Without fail we find suitable host for each generation. However most other villages have to be selective with who they choose. While it's cruel, sacrificing someone you know is often safer. Better the known option; besides, it's only a hunch for now. While he may be powerful, he's awfully different from Minato… However-
A's POV
However unlikely it was that Naruto Uzumaki was both jinchuriki and spawn of Minato. It was more likely than A was comfortable with. If the Leaf managed to raise another Minato and one who was a jinchuriki, they might become too strong to stop.
It was fortunate it seemed someone had made a move on the blonde. A shame, considering the progress Samui had seemingly made. But it would be foolish not to take advantage if the Leaf were weakened. As long as the Five Great Villages had existed, the Leaf had been incorrectly heralded as the strongest. Even more frustrating was their performance in the wars. It, among other reasons, had been how the old fool Hiruzen had convinced him of this new academic route for shinobi. But now, if they had lost their weapon and even more men…
A's ambition was palpable. He had only tolerated this peace to ensure they did not interfere with his plans. But it had been grating for A, just as his sensei had taught him and the Cloud has always done. A truly wished to conquer and expand their domain. Make the Cloud better as a truly great leader did.
But he would move cautiously. A knew that moving recklessly would leave him nearly as open as the Leaf was supposedly now. A would first have to get a confirmation for this information. And if the rumors were true?
A and Onoki's POV
"It's finally time to end this useless peace…"
"We may just have to end this peace…" *18*
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