BORUTO ALTER: Last Shinobi by SongofVedas
Anime » Naruto Rated: T, English, Adventure & Fantasy, Naruto U., Sasuke U., Boruto U., Sarada U., Words: 112k+, Favs: 48, Follows: 49, Published: Dec 2, 2020 Updated: Jul 19
21Chapter 12: FORMATION: INO-SHIKA-CHO!
BORUTO
-KIRIGAKURE ARC-
SHIKADAI sighed, opening green eyes. The sun cast shadows about the forest, each of them like little black pools underneath clouds of leaves.
Beside him, Chocho Akimichi stood. She wielded a tantō confidently, tapping her feet in excitement. To their backs, Inojin Yamanaka was found. The youth had long black and blonde hair, split down the middle and framing a pale face down to a pointed chin.
Shikidai knew Inojin was at the ready as well- scroll in one hand, brush in the other.
It was silent...save for the incessant chirping of birds.
Shikadai smiled, looking every bit like his mother as he did so.
When will you make your move... Sensei! He thought.
With Chocho at his right, they could defend themselves from not only both directions, but also from the ground and the air.
With Inojin at their flank, he could use his-
Each of the young genin suddenly heard sandals clacking against bark from the branches above.
She's coming!
Shikadai expected an attack from the trees-
The ground between them ruptured violently, spears of rock striking upwards from within the genin formation.
Earth style-!
The genin leapt into the air, using chakra to increase their speed. Despite their status as students, Shikadai estimated that their agility far exceeded the rank they currently held.
Shikadai somersaulted backwards, crouching against a thick tree trunk. Inojin landed in the branches above him, while Chocho reformed at Shikadai's center right.
Despite the surprise attack, we maintained our formation. However.. sensei isn't fighting seriously yet..Shikadai frowned.
Is she trying to catch us off guard? Create a variance in her strategy?
Chocho spoke aloud, slightly breaking Shikadai's concentration.
"You're going too easy on us, sensei!" She boasted.
Inojin chuckled from the trees.
"Shut up, fatso." Inojin said with quiet politeness.
Chocho whirled her head up at Inojin.
"I'm- I'm not even using my dad's jutsu right now!" She yelled.
It was true. Chocho was able to revert between body sizes- a genetic mutation of the jutsu she inherited by the blood of the Akimichi clan.
Her "normal" body could infuse chakra and use the body expansion technique.. while her "fat" body was able to retain chakra that Chocho infused over days.. months.. and even years.
While in this form, she could expend that chakra instantly, unleashing a torrent of power that not even Chocho can currently control. In fact, the form could kill her if not used properly.
Despite her somewhat self absorbed attitude..
Chocho was strong.
"Water style: water severing wave!" Moegi's voice rang throughout the forest as the sound of gushing water filled Shikadai's ears.
A high pressure stream cut through wood, toppling trees as it mowed towards the assembled genin.
Suddenly, a massive ink wall formed between the genin and the spearing water. the ink solidified into a tangible painting of an ornate oni gate, complete with swaying charms.
Inojin's jutsu.. the Material Imitation Technique. Unlike his father, Inojin was unable to perform Beast Imitation Art. However, his jutsu seemed able to create "inanimate" non living objects- anything from bridges to spears. Even rocks, fire, and water.
Despite his relative inexperience, the art Inojin could create was far denser than that of regular Beast Imitation Drawing, meaning it was harder to destroy- and in some situations, far better suited for defense and offense.
"Good, Inojin!" Chocho complimented, unbothered by Inojin's earlier insult. She planted herself on the ground, fingers curling around the handle of her small sword.
She can sense what's coming too- nice Chocho! Shikadai remained silent as four snaking rods of wood burst from between quivering trees.
Moegi's speciality..
Wood release.
Moegi had created a facsimile of the First's jutsu. It lacked the chakra controlling properties and overall strength of Hashirama's original ability, but maintained the same versatility. It was that same versatility that hurtled towards them now.
Heh.. now this.. this could actually kill us! Shikadai thought with a bit of sadistic humor.
Chocho held her sword outwards vertically. chakra plumed from her- causing light red hair to waver in the air.
Then, a gust of wind followed flashes of steel.
Smoke billowed beside Shikadai as the sound of wood punching against metal bounced between trees.
Chocho's speciality..
Weapon expansion.
The Akimichi clan possessed the ability to expand their bodies into massive, bulbous forms. However, Karui Akimichi was able to create a new jutsu.. a combination of the Akimichi's Chō Haetataki and Kumogakure kenjutsu.
As the smoke cleared, Chocho could be seen wielding a massive blade- one that nearly rivaled the nearby trees in length. She held it defensively as Moegi's branches pummeled Chocho's sword with a hail of thundering blows. Despite this.. Chocho's weapon was resolute.
The principle was simple. By imbuing her Tanto with her own blood, she was able to transfer gigantism to it. Karui created the Jutsu.. and Choji mastered the technique. With that said..
Chocho has the potential to utilize it to greater extents than either of them!
The sound of bark scraping against metal ceased. For a moment, it was silent.
Chocho leapt backwards, shrinking her weapon back to its normal size.
Inojin kept to the trees as they all heightened their awareness, chirping birds tentatively resuming song during the calm.
Shikadai's eyes leapt from leaf to leaf, left to right.
Where will she strike next..
"Shikadai.. I'm not sure if she's doing it on purpose or not.. but I can sense her." Chocho whispered.
Shikadai lowered his head.
"Far away enough that you're talking, huh?" He responded with a slight smile.
Ironically, it was Chocho, not Inojin, who was the strongest sensory type on the team.
Chocho frowned, unamused as she formed a jutsu sign.
"Obviously.. So what do we do?"
Shikadai pondered.
She wants us to attack her.. that much is clear. Which means she's going to put up a real fight this time. We'll have to be careful.
Shikadai intrusively scratched at a bandaged wrist.
I could use it.. But I'd prefer not to risk any damage during a training exercise..
Whatever.
"Inojin," Shikadai threw his head backwards and up, blond ponytail swinging behind his neck.
"Draw as many ranged projectiles as you can. Arrows, swords. Anything you can manipulate and throw."
"That's easy." Inojin rose from his perch, stretching both arms before jumping to the forest floor.
"Chocho," Shikadai turned to her as he pointed to his head.
"Your job is important. Inojin is going to be following your lead. I need you to attack Moegi directly- Inojin, start drawing by the way.." Shikadai said calmly.
He returned his attention to Chocho.
"You're not just creating an opening. You have the strongest offensive ability out of all of us. More than likely.. it'll be you to call this thing." Shikadai folded his arms.
"While you're doing that, I'll come in from the opposite direction, behind her. It's simple enough.. but variables don't lie. There's three of us." Shikadai looked at both of his teammates, smiling down at Inojin as the boy drew, then across to Chocho.
"And.. we're pretty strong." Shikadai finished.
"Chocho- where is she?" Inojin asked as he rose.
Chocho clicked her tongue in annoyance.
"I can't sense her as well as before. But I still can see the general area." Chocho answered.
Shikadai assumed a slightly more authoritative tone.
"Inojin- advance with Chocho, but retreat once she makes contact. That's when you'll use your art." Shikadai instructed.
"Between the two of us.. we're sure doing a lot, Shikadai." Inojin chuckled.
The young Nara offered a content smirk.
"I'm just doing what I do best.. staying out of the way."
With that, he nodded to Chocho.
"Let's move."
The genin seemed to vanish into the air with a whisper. Chocho and Inojin rushed ahead, while Shikadai himself circled from above, leaping from tree to tree.
Suddenly, Chocho swung her head around in panic.
"Shikadai! Behind you!" Chocho's voice echoed throughout the forest as the sizzle of chakra prickled the skin at Shikadai's neck.
Water style again-
Shikadai threw himself to his knees as bullets of water sped above his head with loud hisses. He flipped against the wood of the tree, kicking himself away from Moegi and down to his teammates.
Moegi silently continued her advance.
Her movements were faster, obviously more trained. As Shikadai landed, he saw the shadow of Moegi descending from above him.
Shikadai ignored her.
As Moegi began to attack, a katana shot through trees. It impaled her through the stomach before her body exploded into a cloud of white smoke.
Good.. Inojin knew it was a clone. And even better.. Chocho hasn't fully revealed her position. She fled as Moegi chased me.
Both of his teammates were able to maintain their plan, despite the fact that Moegi's attack changed their original roles.
And now...
Shikadai's eyes followed the path of Inojin's painted weapon. Inojin had defended him.. but he was directing him as well.
Shikadai pressed his palms together, strengthening the murky, quivering line of darkness that stretched across a forest floor splotched with shadows.
It crawled up a tree, curling around the trunk..
And directly across Moegi's legs.
When she had moved to attack Shikadai, Inojin was probably far away enough to see her use substitution- allowing him to not only defend Shikadai, but also reveal Moegi's location.
Shikadai's ponytail wavered as Chocho sped past him. In seconds she was behind Moegi, tanto pointed at her sensei's back.
"...We could go for a bit longer.. but I think that's enough." Moegi spoke aloud from a distance.
"You've improved. All of you." Moegi finished.
"Do you think we're ready for the Mist? Ready to help the fifth Hokage?" Chocho asked.
As Shikadai approached, he noticed Moegi's expression harden.
"This mission has the potential to be more dangerous than what we faced in Suna. I've trained you well.. I think this sparring match is evidence of that." Moegi said.
Her eyes then lowered into a warning, shadowed gaze.
"However, this exercise and actual combat are two entirely different things. I don't have to tell any of you this." Moegi continued, her voice softening.
"I genuinely don't know what we'll face there, Chocho. But I need each of you to promise that you'll trust each other, and trust me. That may be the only advantage we have over our foes."
Shikadai and the others nodded, promising their sensei.
Moegi's expression changed again- it was happy.. relieved.
"Let's get back to the village then. I want you guys to have time to talk to your family and friends before we leave."
Chocho and Inojin excitedly complied.. but Shikadai continued to watch Moegi. Her expression seemed to grow more hollow.. almost scared.
Is there something about this mission we don't know?
Shikadai's mind flashed to Himawari in the hospital. Then, to the story of what Boruto and his team faced.
He scratched at his bandagesonce more.
There was a possibility that they could face something sinister. It seemed clear to Shikadai that something in the ninja world was stirring. Something different from the Sunagakure rebellion.
He continued with his team, unsure musings causing him to furrow his brow in silent reflection.
EARLIER THAT MORNING..
SARADA woke with a start. Her arm ached. Despite her mother's healing, it still had to be bandaged and re-bandaged every time the sun rose. Sarada sighed, leaving her bed for a waiting dresser.
I shouldn't feel sorry for myself.
Himawari..
Sarada was able to visit Hima briefly yesterday. Boruto, The Hokage, and Lady Uzuamki were there, of course. Boruto..
He could barely speak. When Sarada looked at him, she could tell from his face how much pain he was in.
She felt much of the same.
They had all watched as Himawari was nearly beaten to death. It was beyond not helping-
It was the fact that they couldn't do anything. Sarada shut her eyes, tears threatening them as she bandaged a thrashed arm.
I told Boruto to stay back. If he hadn't done what he did..
Sarada opened her eyes, wiping them with determination.
I have to get stronger.
She was an Uchiha.
Sarada herself wasn't even quite sure of what that name meant to the village, but she knew that regardless of it being reverence or infamy..
It was a name that was known. And further, it was one she had a responsibility to.
That thought brought anger to Sarada's mind.. an emotion she had felt many times when it came to anything pertaining to her father.
She-
Sarada's thoughts grew silent as she stilled movement.
She narrowed sharp eyebrows, dark purple hair flying behind her head like a hawk.
I thought I heard something last night-
Voices.
It was mom and..
Sarada's eyes widened as realization echoed throughout her nerves.
That voice.. it's..
The young Uchiha leapt across a small room, turning into a jump as she rushed downstairs. The voices grew quieter at the sound of her footsteps- but she didn't care.
Sarada's eyes strained- she rounded the last corner before entering her kitchen. She stopped-
Sakura was silent.
Sarada's mother stood- her face was tired.. but happy. Before her, a tall man loomed with his back to Sarada. The shape and wave of his hair was exactly like Sarada's, save for the color.
Sarada looked down to the man's boots. Then, she glanced up at the back of his head.
"You.." Sarada snarled.
Sakura stepped forward.
"Sarada.." she began. Sarada's dark eyes narrowed past the man's shoulder.
Sarada maintained her composure as her body shook.
She saw them then- the eyes of the village. The eyes of scorn, derision. The eyes that cared little of her ability, her devotion. Eyes that saw only the crest on her back-
Uchiha.
"I've suffered.. we've suffered so much!" Sarada did begin to yell then.
"And he just decides to come back?! After abandoning everything?!" Sarada stood defiantly, striking her fist against her chest.
"Turn around, Sasuke Uchiha..." Sarada rasped.
Sakura opened her mouth to speak again, but Sasuke raised his hand in silent protest. Sasuke turned.
His face was younger than what Sarada had remembered, and he bore the same look as she did. They had the same eyes, the same nose, the same jaw.
It was clear that they were both the thing that seemed so reviled, the thing that was nearly scrubbed from all the history books Sarada read, the unspeakable thing written on her very face when they saw her.
Uchiha.
"What is it that you want?" Sasuke asked brusquely.
Sarada lowered her head as a new wave of anger washed over her.
"What is it that I want?" Sarada retorted bitterly.
Sasuke nodded, unfazed.
"From this. Your anger is justified.. I can understand it." Sasuke said quietly.
Sasuke's voice beat around Sarada's head almost like a heavy rain.
What is it I want?!
A thousand questions basked in the pain of her early childhood built up within Sarada to such degrees she felt as if she were close to vomiting.
She lurched over, before forcing herself into a steel, steady calm.
Sarada leveled her cold eyes onto Sasuke.
He met her gaze.
"I want to know the truth." Sarada said.
"It would only serve to harm you." Sasuke replied instantly.
Sarada gritted her teeth, curling both hands again into tight fists.
"I deserve to know!" She shouted. Sarada cackled cynically then.
"And since when did you care about harm? I don't even know who you are!" Sarada stepped forward, her voice rising with righteous indignation.
"I deserve to know! I'm not stupid! There's something everyone is hiding! Even mom!"
Sakura's face fell as a silent tear escaped her eye. Sarada felt a pang of guilt then, before noticing she was crying too.
It's his fault.
No one would feel like this if it weren't for him! I know mom doesn't want to lie to me! It's you!
"...I can and will tell you. I promise you that. But now..I can't do that to you.. I'm sorry, Sarada-"
Sarada rushed at Sasuke. Chakra pooled into her right fist as she threw it squarely for his chest.
Sasuke didn't move, and Sarada stopped inches short of a blow that she knew he wasn't defending against.
"Fine..." Sarada looked down as she stepped backwards, fist shaking.
"Fine, if that's how it is!" She laughed.
"If everyone is content to keep lying.. fine. but.. I want to fight you. I want you to see that I became powerful without you, I want you to see I don't need you! It doesn't matter that you're here!"
Sasuke simply nodded.
Sakura made one protest, but Sasuke simply ignored her. The man stalked out of the house, darkness still clutching the world outside.
He paused.
Sarada rushed to her shoes, then chased the man out the door.
As she left the warmth of her home, the man instantly increased his speed. He leapt from building to building with silent whispers, nearly as fast as the birds flying above.
He's already testing me!
Sarada increased her speed, using advanced chakra control to fuel her body. In seconds, she was paced with Sasuke.
They quickly traversed the multiple domed roofs of Konoha- Sarada could tell they were headed for the west gate.
So.. we're leaving the village..
Sarada continued to follow sasuke as the man blinked through Konoha's gate, Sarada following in the wake of shifting air.
They hopped across a nearby stream, trees above wavering in the now warming orange hue of the sun.
Outside konoha's walls, various houses were scattered about. A significant amount of people lived in the ever expanding countryside, finding their home in the shade of the Land of Fire, nestled between giant trees that had bore witness to eras of countless war and conflict.
It was here Sarada and Sasuke found themselves. Sarada continued after the wavering black cloak before her-
Sasuke abruptly stopped.
To their right, a small, modest home waited underneath the gaze of a towering tree. A single file of smoke rose above the dwelling, while warm lights reflected from three windows staggered amongst the home's floors.
Sasuke gripped his sword.
Sarada stepped forward, before passing her eyes across the house once more.
Wait..
This is Sumire's house!
Just as Sarada was about to speak, Sasuke let go of his weapon.
He turned his head halfway to regard Sarada, his one visible brow sharply cutting downwards.
"I thought.. I sensed something." Sasuke looked back at the home once more, before shaking his head.
He resumed their journey.
They moved through the wood in relative silence. Sarada said nothing, and Sasuke offered no conversation.
Sarada's anger still simmered.
For him to simply return.. as if nothing happened..!
The young Uchiha felt pain behind her right eye. She blinked away the searing burn, focusing a hate filled glare at the world ahead of her.
Finally, they left the long belt of trees. They came across a wide valley, filled with wavering white flowers and tall grass. Far in the distance, a large slab of stone stood..
Bearing the Uchiha crest.
Sasuke began walking. Sarada followed closely behind. She wanted to ask where they were.. but she also didn't want to speak to him yet. Not yet..
Not until I prove to you I don't need you! You don't deserve to be here!
With that thought, Sarada stamped her feet firmly to the ground.
"Enough walking, Sasuke!" She clasped her hands together as chakra began infusing within her.
Sasuke dipped his head, accepting her challenge.
Sarada vanished in the air.
She appeared above Sasuke, leg kicking down at the crown of his head.
He stepped backwards-
Sarada threw herself to Sasuke's right.
He thought I was going to land right in front of him!
Sarada's hands weaved together in rehearsed seconds.
"Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu!" Sarada belched an orb of flame- hitting Sasuke close range as sound and smoke exploded from the epicenter of the blast.
Boring, Sasuke!
Sarada spun on her heels, dodging to the left as Sasuke extended a kick meant for her head.
He pivoted, before landing gracefully before her.
A lull.
Sarada raised her arms-
Sasuke exploded in a gasp of air.
He appeared before Sarada, swiping a leg across both of hers. She fell backward, recovering into a roll as Sasuke continued his advance.
She kicked into a standing position, forcing Sasuke back as he moved his arm and legs in defense.
"You're more skilled than the Uzumaki boy," Sasuke commented.
Sarada remained silent, sliding backwards as she threw her hands behind her back.
It's time.. I've grown used to the difference in our height and strength. Now.. Begins the real offensive!
Sarada produced four shuriken, flaring them like cards as she crossed her arms.
She broke into a run, flinging each arm to the left and right. The shuriken swirled around Sasuke, before clashing against each other and changing course- now aimed for his eyes.
Sarada ran ahead-
Sasuke vanished.
"How-"
Sarada felt a hand on her shoulder-
She relaxed her muscles, freeing herself from Sasuke's grip before he could take hold.
Sarada hopped backwards, panting. Sasuke didn't pursue.
"You're stronger than I expected." Sasuke said.
"If you're this strong.. why weren't you able to help Himawari?" Sasuke asked.
Sarada's eyes widened as her blood thumped.
"I know what happened. I know.. that boy- Boruto Uzumaki.. fought the creature away from her. Yet.. you're stronger than him. What is it that he has.. that you lack?" Sasuke stepped forward.
Sarada hissed.
"You.. you have no right to speak!" She ran-
Sasuke vanished again.
How is he doing this?!
Sarada felt the air from Sasuke's rounding kick-
But didn't have the muscle strength to evade it.
His boot connected with her jaw, sending her crashing into the ground.
Sasuke's shadow loomed over Sarada-
She tapped into her chakra, zipping backwards as Sasuke's fist crushed a small crater into the ground where she once stood.
Sarada sniffed- she noticed then her nose was bleeding.
Sarada wiped away the blood, leveling her gaze with Sasuke's.
Himawari..
Could I have done more?
Could we have beaten that thing if I had-
Sarada's right eye began to sear again.
For Sasuke.. for him to accuse her, the man who abandoned his own family, his own daughter-
Sarada roared in anger. She flipped her hands together-
Sasuke's eyes widened in surprise.
"Yes, I know that jutsu!" Sarada bellowed.
"Fire Style: Phoenix Flower Jutsu!" Six globs of devouring fire shouted forth from Sarada, each of them speeding for Sasuke.
Sarada instantly chased after her own jutsu, hiding in the shadow of the furthest orb as she rounded on Sasuke's position.
She saw him- saw as he was about to be enveloped by three spheres of fire-
He vanished again.
But this time- Sarada noticed he reappeared somewhat before her trajectory.
I still don't get it.. but this answers two things!
One, if he could help it, he wouldn't have teleported near me! That means his ability is confined to his immediate area!
Two... He can't see me!
As the fire rounded for Sasuke, he raised his palm. Sarada's jutsu exploded against Sasuke's hand..
And then was drawn into it.
What-
Distracted, Sarada paused as her position was revealed. Sasuke wasted no time-
He jumped forward, unleashing a flurry of blows to Sarada's face and body.
No..
Sarada felt herself being pushed backward, blood flying from her mouth as Sasuke continued his attack.
No!
I won't lose! I refuse to feel this pain! This blood.. it isn't mine! I will not show weakness! Not to..
Sasuke's face flashed before Sarada's right eye.
Her anger.. her fury.. reached its boiling point.
Not to you, Sasuke Uchiha!
Sarada blinked. Her right eye burned-
But through it.. she could see Sasuke's movements.
No, beyond that.
She could see the tension of his muscles, the ending points of his arm, his fingers.
His strike.
Time seemed to have slowed, but now it was speeding up again. Sarada caught Sasuke's fist with her own, pushing a wave of chakra forth in such intensity it whipped at the wind.
For a moment, they both stood, fists touching.
Sasuke stared at her. His face.. he looked almost sad.
Finally, Sarada stepped backward.
"What..? What is it? You have nothing to say now?" Sarada raised her hands into a jutsu sign, preparing another attack-
Sasuke drew his blade. Sarada paused-
She stepped backwards as he approached.
However, Sasuke raised his blade's flat to Sarada's face, allowing her to see a wavering reflection.
In it, she saw that her right eye was now red.
A black ring circled within her pupil, while a small, ink-like tomoe rested at the crown of it.
"The.." Sarada stepped backwards.
"It seems it only manifested in one eye.. curious." Sasuke said as he appraised Sarada's gaze from a distance.
"What.. what is this..?" Sarada asked as Sasuke sheathed his sword.
"That is the legacy of the blood within you...the Sharingan."
"So.. this is the man Jigen's up in arms about?" Code yawned, peering over the body of a well-built individual, white hair flowing behind the corpse-like individual's head.
The man was enclosed in a blue incubation tube. Where his heart would be, a circle of the death scroll thudded, thinly hidden underneath a veil of discolored skin.
Amado chuckled from across the room.
"You shouldn't stand so close." He warned.
Code scoffed, unease somewhat tensing around his neck as he backed away.
"He feels almost like.."
"Otogane?" Amado finished, looking up at Code as he prepared a cigarette.
"Yes.. I knew that she was... related, in a sense, but.. for it to feel like this.." Code smiled.
"You're truly a monster, Amado. It's unfair you created a failure like me before you were capable of something to the level of... what was its name, again?" Code inquired.
"Kashin." Amado said simply, huffing darkly on his cigarette.
"Kashin Koji," the scientist finished with a smoky exhale, standing up to match Code's height.
"Sounds ancient." Code said. He wanted to know more, to tell the truth.. but he also didn't want to know anything about Otogane that would get him in trouble. Code had his use due to his relation to the Ten Tails.. but as a failed vessel, he knew he existed on borrowed time- and personal favor.
"So, what's with Kashin's left ar-" Code began.
Suddenly, the lab door crashed open.
Before either of them could react, Delta strode into the lab, purple eyes critical in their regard.
"Ah, just who I was looking for." Delta said, smiling thinly at Code.
Code instantly glowered.
They were both inners, and further, by all rights, Code was stronger than Delta.
However, it seemed that Delta held more favor with Jigen, and was able to leverage that favor into more and more authority within the organization.
I'm little more than the Ten Tail's handler..
Code frowned, masking his insecurities with a false air of confidence.
"Delta.. I'm surprised to still see you here. I thought Lord Jigen sent you off to die already." Code smiled with a grin dipped in hate.
Delta returned the look, eyes shining.
"Hmph.. that's actually why I'm here, dear Code." Delta began as she twirled on white boots.
Amado chuckled in the background as Code glared on, watching Delta cautiously.
"Kirigakure is a dangerous place.. Not to mention, if our new intel is correct.. the Fifth Hokage is there, as well." Delta reported.
Code shrugged.
"Afraid of an old war relic?" He said.
Delta pursed her lips into a smile.
"I want to ensure my mission is successful.. to enact Jigen's will. I need what you'd call.. a trump card."
Delta's hair bounced as she spoke. She playfully twisted at a long, blonde strand of it as Code digested her words.
"You have your own tools. Both your lower and upper guard still live." Code replied harshly.
Delta flashed her eyes, meeting Code's glare.
"I want Botäshirin."
Amado chuckled.
"Oh my..." the man laughed quietly. Code inhaled, lowering his voice to a hissing whisper.
"You've gone too far Delta. That-" Code rasped.
It was useless to resist- Code knew that.
But she couldn't. Delta couldn't possibly be that crazed..
"By all accounts, you should be stronger than her now. Is that fear I smell dripping from you, Code? Didn't you want your opportunity to burn her to a crisp?" Delta chuckled.
Code stomped his foot onto the lab floor, fire shooting upwards and around his body. He breathed haggardly- the density of Code's chakra began breaking various medical instruments within Amado's lab.
"Control yourself, Code. You'll threaten him." Amado said sternly.
Code looked away, flames dying down as Delta laughed boastfully.
"Ah, yes! It is that power I missed, Code. It is too bad I can't take you. However.. another failed vessel is just as fine." Delta smirked.
Code's glare darkened.
"I haven't given you her. And I refuse to." Code said with finality.
Amado sighed, turning back to his work.
Delta cooed mockingly.
"You know what I possess. Drop these foolish pretenses, and give me the key. I've grown bored of the smell in this room." Delta spat.
Code gritted his teeth.
He could continue to refuse her..
But she possessed the Seal.
Those who carried the Seal could command other Inners.. save for Amado and Otogane. They could even forcibly command outers and uppers, if it came to it.
In a way, the seal made Delta the third strongest member.
The seal, when activated, could control Code's mind.. rather painfully, and force him to give Delta what she wanted.
The young man sighed in defeat, opening his palm.
A zipper-like protrusion cut across his palm, blood momentarily spilling from the void-like wound.
From it, a key jumped. Delta grabbed it as it flew through the air, smiling as the smooth metal loudly slapped against her skin.
"Good boy." Delta smirked.
She turned, sauntering out of the room.
"I'll be sure to treat your former Upper with the utmost care.. Code!" Delta laughed as she vanished into the bowels of Kara's lower catacombs.
Amado twirled in his chair, crossing arms.
"That was interesting,to say the least." Amado raised his eyebrows towards Code.
"You- you could've stopped her!" Code protested.
Amado smiled.
"I guess that's true, I could've." He said as he typed at a diagnostic chart.
Code swore.
"...Botäshirin Zhenjin.." He whispered.
Botäshirin.
She had served under Code for some time.. before she went mad.
There were six failed vessels of Jigen. Each of them inherited a portion of his overall power.. Code was one of them.. Botäshirin was another.
The vessels of Jigen were considered failures as while they possessed powerful chakra, they were unable to perform Jutsu. All of them.. save for Botäshirin.
Due to her intellectual deficiency, she was made an upper. However, five years ago she had gone mad. She killed two inners, and then nearly killed Code.
It was Boro and Amado who eventually stopped her. They contained her in a special prison- the very same one she was hopefully decomposing in now.
"If she wants to unleash such a monster.. then she'll have Jigen to answer to. This doesn't involve me." Code said almost to himself in reassurance.
"Now there's a mature thought." Amado grinned.
Though.. if you dare bring Botäshirin back here.. I'll kill you both! Seal or not, Delta!
Code smirked at his dark musings, before leaving Amado to his corpsemen's work.
SWEAT dripped down Shojoji's face. He was hidden within the walls of an unassuming home. He hadn't moved for nearly six hours.
The home was occupied by a young girl and her mother and father. They were all Shinobi, but he could tell none of them posed any actual threat, combined or alone.
No, it wasn't them.
That chakra earlier.. it must've been the Hokage. I didn't expect to sense him..
Did the Hokage suspect something already? Was that even possible? Was there a ninja with that sort of sensory ability?
No. If the Hokage suspected something, the house would've been evacuated by now. But..
For a moment.. It was like something with incredible chakra was staring right at me!
Was it possible it was the same chakra that Lady Otogane felt..?
No. This was powerful chakra.. but not otherworldly. Which means my goal is still within Konoha.
Shojoji steeled his resolve. No doubt, after this mission Otogane would let him be.. perhaps for the rest of his life. All he had to do was gather intel.
This family.. he wouldn't take them, not yet.
But he knew that within this home.. his key into the village slept.
Shojoji smiled.
Yes. The world of Shinobi.. was quite cruel.
NEXT TIME, DOUBLE CHAPTER!
TO KIRIGAKURE! Then, YOUR FATHER'S JUTSU, THE RASENGAN!
13: YOUR FATHER'S JUTSU!
BORUTO
SACHI YAMANAKA.
Short, blonde hair bobbed against her forehead, framing frantic light blue eyes as a desperate gaze peered ahead. There was only one thing on her mind.
Shota.
Sachi clasped her hands together tightly, sweat making palms slick to the touch. She was in an abandoned home found choked between two crossing streams.
Kawa no kuni..
The land of Rivers.
The young kunoichi released a steady beacon of chakra.
If you're in danger.. or if you think Konoha is after you.. come to the Land of Rivers. I will be there. I will sense you.
Shota's parting words before all this began thrummed within Sachi's mind. He loved her. They loved each other-
Sachi's senses began to calm.
I've been running for almost two days.. but I'm safe now. I'm here. I trust Shota. More than anything.
The home she hid within was built of wood, with exposed windows on every wall. A doorway, broken, spilled into the woody area outside. From cuts within the roof sunshine splashed, leaving warm patterns that crossed Sachi's eyes along with the thoughts that raced behind them.
In the silence between now and fate, Sachi found herself thinking about the interrogation.
Inadvertently, she shook. Sachi suddenly remembered the headband still warming a cold forehead as guilt tunneled through her body.
Two Konoha nin were killed. Shota.. he promised no one would die.
He said that this would help Konoha in ways it refused to help itself- using old Uzumaki techniques to fuel new medical technology.. to save lives!
Sachi shuddered.
The Death God scrolls.
Scrolls that, like the rest of the village, were warded behind a complex spell of chakra that only the barrier team knew of. The chakra inscriptions changed monthly.. However, Sachi had an innate ability.
Her sensory jutsu seemed to be able to decode chakra she felt. She understood the components of most jutsu, and while she couldn't perform the jutsu she experienced, she at least could record it, and knew how to replicate it. This was a skill that only Shota knew of.
Which is why when he asked for her help..
I wanted him to value me. To love me. He.. Shota isn't evil. I didn't think there would be any ha-
Sachi's emotions exploded as a familiar chakra suddenly stepped through an empty doorframe. She nearly leapt from her hiding place, smiling as her blue eyes locked onto an angular, handsome face shrouded by dark hair.
Shota smiled back softly. His skin was fair, smooth and unblemished, save for the red circles underneath his eyes. His pupils were dark brown- brooding and intelligent. As Sachi ran to him he pulled her close, caressing her head as she softly began to cry.
"I'm so glad you're safe," Shota whispered. They separated for a moment. Sachi looked up at Shota, tears falling from his eyes. She pulled his face down to hers, wiping his tears as she kissed him softly.
"They..didn't seem to pursue me as much as I expected. Sai must've held them back." Sachi said almost neutrally.
The shock of meeting Shota again.. after all of this.. it made it seem almost as if the last two days weren't real. But now that he was here-
"Two people died, Shota..!" Sachi whispered, almost as if she was still within Konoha's walls. She loved Shota.. but she needed to understand what was happening, and what this meant for them.
Shota gave her a look of genuine surprise. He then glanced away, out towards one of the windows and then to the wooded fields beyond.
He was silent.
"Shota! Please! I just.. I'm scared, Shota! I left everything for you!" Sachi pleaded.
Shota did look at her then. He slowly lifted his hand to Sachi's face, before cusping his palm against her cheek.
Sachi's heart ached.
Sho-
The thatched roof above cracked away with a violent, splintering bark. Sachi immediately turned, eyes wide as a scream filled her lungs.
A white, foxlike dog with blue eyes stood amongst the smoking debris. But that wasn't what filled her with terror.
No, far from it.
The upper body of a human girl was stitched to the dog's back, dried blood forming a matted, red ring around the girl's torso. Her arms dragged across the wood floor, while dark red hair veiled a lowered head.
Sachi.. she recognized the dog. It was Junban, one of Shota's ninken. Sachi knew Shota was interested in studying human biology.. but to do this..
This.. this is wrong!
Sachi stepped backwards.
Is this why Kiba expelled you, Shota?!
"Shota.. what did y-"
Sachi felt the weight of movement behind her.
She turned her head just as the tip of a kunai slashed across her neck. Sachi spun around, blood splattering against the wood.
Shota regarded her as she fell to her knees, blood pouring down a green flak jacket.
She tried to speak, tried to curse. Tried to scream. But she couldn't. Before she died, the last thing she saw were the tears in Shota's eyes.
"The Rasengan...?" Konohamaru repeated.
Boruto glared at Konohamaru, folding his arms across a purple shirt as the man groggily rubbed his eyes.
"Yes. I need to get stronger. Mastering the rasengan is a step towards that." Boruto said softly. As he spoke, the image of Himawari's mangled body reverberated throughout his mind.
Konohamaru's tiredness seemed to fade away as he nodded knowingly. But then, question painted over the man's face.
"I offered to teach you before..what changed?" Konohamaru raised an eyebrow.
Boruto looked away as a rising sun warmed his back.
"Sasuke Uchiha."
Alarm replaced confusion within Konohamaru.
"Sasuke Uchiha?" Konohamaru frowned.
"So.. he's returned."
Boruto nodded.
"He said he would help me become stronger.. if I can learn it." Boruto clasped his bandaged hand into a tight fist.
"The rasengan." Boruto finished.
Konohamaru remained silent. Boruto looked at him for some time, wondering what exactly was on the man's mind. His brows were furrowed, brown eyes focused on Boruto but somehow also past him.
Finally, Konohamaru spoke.
"Your dad.. the Hokage." Konohamaru graced Boruto with a slack smile.
"I know he trusts Sasuke Uchiha. No, it's beyond that."
Morning wind blew, causing Konohamaru's curly hair to rustle in the breeze.
"They're brothers. They love each other. But.."
Konohamaru's eyes snapped towards Boruto's.
"Sasuke did things that aren't forgivable. Things that-"
Unlike himself, Boruto interrupted.
"What things? What happened before the war, Sensei?" Boruto asked.
Sarada had spoken to him about her suspicions about the Uchiha, and he learned about their role in the war during his studies at the academy. But.. Other than that, there was absolutely no information on the clan itself.
When they were younger, it didn't stand out. But now...
It's clear that something happened. Something they're hiding from us.
"I.. I'm sorry, Boruto. I shouldn't get into this." Konohamaru sighed harshly, waving the subject away with both hands.
"Just know that.. Sasuke's path isn't the only way. I know what you want, Boruto. I had the same look in my eyes when I was your age. You want to succeed. To become stronger."
Konohamaru clasped Boruto's shoulder, offering a wide smile.
"Don't forget about the people who care about you. Sasuke.. he isolated himself. He thought only he could change things. I.. don't want you to become like that." Konohamaru said.
Boruto looked down, absorbing his Sensei's words.
He wanted to ask more, but he knew that Konohamaru was trying to keep something secret.
He didn't want to push the issue. Konohamaru deserved more than a pointless argument.
"With that said.. I can't imagine a greater honor than teaching you the rasengan, Boruto." Konohamaru grinned, curling his hand into a fist, eyes filled with fiery vigor.
"Back then.. your father was more than a Sensei. He was.. like an older brother to me. He's my family." Konohamaru affirmed.
"That means you are too!" Konohamaru offered his fist to Boruto.
Boruto raised his eyebrow.
"It's.. like the unison sign. Consider it an agreement. It's a promise I'll teach you your father's jutsu." Konohamaru said.
"Hmph." Boruto scoffed.
Nonetheless, he tapped a clenched fist against Konohamaru's own.
They began immediately.
0 notes