Chakra Wizard
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Alright, last chapter was the origin story, now it’s time to connect the dots*_* lol And yes, the flashback is continuing on from last chapter, hence the format of the text in the beginning. Anyways, enjoy
Here’s my previous chapters, for those who missed any:
Chapter 066: Taigen of Team Suzaku
Five months had passed since Taigen settled into the Sarutobi residence, and by now, Airon and Minto’s peers had come to accept him as one of their own. For some of them, it was even difficult not to, as with his ability to speak, impressive physical prowess, and their similarities in age – speaking in terms of human to dog years – he was essentially another aspiring young shinobi growing up in the Leaf village. Whether it was a day at the park, sitting down for a meal, or partaking in one of Airon or Kei’s dumb stunts or pranks, he had no trouble finding his own place amongst the fun, as was the case with the race Inase, Kei, him, and Minto were currently having from the former’s home all the way to the latter’s. The layout of the village made the task tedious enough, but with their days in the Academy having barely started, Kei and Minto found themselves at odds with the recently graduated Inase.
Kei: Inase, come on!! You said you’d go easy on us this time!!
Inase: I am! I’m barely going half as fast as I usually do! If you really want to test your speed, Kei, trying keeping up with Taigen!
Kei: I’m not racing with a dog!! Are you nuts!?
No sooner after he made this bold remark did the aforementioned dog speed past him, leaping up onto a small nearby building and leaping back down again in front of Inase.
Inase: Whoa!! Hold on a second there!
Minto: Go, Taigen, go!!
Kei: Yeah, put that show-off in her place!!
Inase immediately set aside her limitations and showed off her full speed, but to her surprise, the moment she recaptured the lead, it was stolen once again, their neck-and-neck match enduring all the way to Minto’s home, where Taigen eventually emerged the victor.
Inase: Phew…huhh…huhh, wow. …Huhh, you’ve gotten a lot faster, Taigen.
Taigen: (Panting heavily, he waited until Kei and Minto finally caught up before giving a reply.) …Huhh, we’re normally racing with two others who are a lot faster than any of us. …Huhh, I’m just trying to push as hard as I can so I can give THEM a run for their money.
Minto: (He smiled through his heavy breaths and rested his hand on Taigen’s head.) Phew…huhh, well, you’re well on your way to that, buddy. …Huhh, let’s go find ‘em real quick. They should be at that training spot.
Liking the idea themselves, the rest of the group immediately took off towards the outskirts of the village, where rested the Third Training Ground.
Though times of destruction and reconstruction had robbed it of its natural beauty at times, the iconic training ground still retained much of its basic landscape even after four decades, and it was here that a young Airon and Manako spent much of their time together displaying their current abilities and, at times, pitting them against one another. Today, they were joined by a young Nakama, the final piece of their prodigious trifecta, as Manako proceeded to demonstrate his mastery over the Chidori, forming a concentrated beam that pierced through all three of the wooden posts from roughly a dozen yards away. In response, Airon pulled out his recently crafted katana and proceeded to channel his chakra through it before balancing it in midair for several seconds, a feat his two rivals were quick to comment on as he returned it to its sheath.
Nakama: That’s amazing, Airon!
Manako: Man, I’ve gotta work up to that.
Airon: Hehehehe, yeah. And in the meantime, I’ll try matching your reflexes. …Oh, and hey, I’ve been figuring out how to do this, too! Watch.
After checking to ensure he had their undivided attention, he clasped his hands together as the soles of his feet began glowing blue, courtesy of the huge amounts of chakra pouring into them. After doing this for a few seconds, he lifted one of his feet a few inches off the ground, keeping it there for a brief moment before slowly lifting his other foot, as well. Manako and Nakama watched in astonishment as it continued to move up for several seconds on end, nearly reaching the same altitude as his other foot before his balance finally broke and he fell back to the ground.
Manako: …How the heck did you do that?
Airon: Heh, well, it ain’t easy. Just imagine trying to walk on water, but focusing your chakra a thousand times harder than you’d have to for that.
Manako: That’s incredible…I don’t know how I can top that.
Airon: Hehe, simple. You don’t.
Nakama: Well hey, take a look at this, guys!
They quickly stopped and turned to her as her hair began thrashing about, the air around her roaring violently upward for several seconds until it eventually began lifting her off the ground. She remained roughly two feet in the air for almost a minute before ending her technique and returned gracefully to the ground, where a grinning Airon and an impressed, but slightly annoyed Manako awaited her.
Manako: You really enjoy showing off, don’t you, Nakama?
Airon: Hehehahaha, come on, Manako! That was great!
Their private display was put on hold moments later as Inase’s group found their way to the training ground at last, a panting Kei and Minto coming up behind her and Taigen, much to her older brother’s amusement.
Airon: Hehehehe, well? How much did you beat ‘em by this time, Inase?
Inase: (She smiled and looked at Taigen.) …I didn’t win this time.
Surprised by this, Airon and Nakama looked at the ninken in both amazement and satisfaction, as did Manako to a lesser extent.
Manako: I should probably check in at home, Airon.
Airon: (His mind now fixed on other things, he only tilted his head slightly and held out his hand to bid him farewell.) Alright. Catch ya later, cuz.
They clapped hands before Manako took off back towards the village, at which point Airon walked up to Taigen and smiled down at him.
Airon: You really have been getting stronger, haven’t you?
Inase: That’s what I said.
Taigen: (He turned his head away in minor embarrassment.) I wouldn’t say that…you guys have just been really good to me, y’know?
Airon: Hmhm, well, I won’t argue with that…so come on. Show me what you got.
He tossed a kunai into the air before leaping back, pulling out another one as Taigen caught that one in his mouth and rushed forward. Their weapons clashed multiple times before Taigen lunged forward too far and Airon slid fluidly out of his path, reaching out to grab him as he passed by. The sight of Airon’s hand passing over his eye, however, brought back terrible memories which Taigen couldn’t bear to remember, prompting him to swing his head in such a way that Airon was forced to pull his arm back to avoid being impaled by the kunai still caught between his jaws.
Nakama: Taigen, calm down! It’s alri-
She ran forward to touch him as he swung his head at Airon again, prompting him to snap his jaws viciously in her direction, the kunai falling from his mouth as he did. Now infuriated at him having lashed out at Nakama, Airon leapt on top of him and wrapped his arms around his body, tackling him to the ground as Minto came forward to attempt to diffuse the situation.
Minto: TAIGEN!!!
Taigen continued to thrash about as Airon fastened his hold on him, but his movements gradually subsided once Minto placed his hand on him and began running his fingers through his fur.
Minto: Just chill, buddy. Okay? …Relax.
Once Taigen had completely calmed down, Airon loosened his grip, though he continued to hold him in place as he began whimpering under his breath, still haunted by his memories from before.
Taigen: Don’t hurt me…please…I don’t wanna get hurt again.
All three of them looked at Taigen in pity, as did the onlooking Inase and Kei, and Airon slowly moved out from underneath him as Minto began running his hand further up his body, pressing his forehead against his head as he gently caressed his neck.
Minto: No one else is gonna hurt you, buddy. Ever…I promise.
Airon: He’s right…and I’m gonna help you make sure of that.
Taigen: (He gazed up at Airon after he said this, as did Minto, a look of wonder and innocence in his eyes as he responded.) …You mean it?
Worry quickly replaced his admiration as he awaited Airon’s response, the long wait prompting the others to begin questioning his sincerity, as well. From his expression, Airon was obviously reevaluating the gist of his promise, and he heaved a sigh of minor disappointment before glancing back down at Taigen.
Airon: Yeah…but I’m afraid you’re gonna have to take a few hits in the meantime…just to make sure you can avoid a lot more later on…alright?
The thought of injury was clearly not in Taigen’s best interests, even to serve him better in the long run, but the determination in Airon’s eyes and assuring nod from Minto prompted Taigen to return both gestures in kind before standing back up.
Taigen: When do we start?
Smiling, Airon picked up the kunai lying a few feet away and tossed it to Taigen before pulling out one of his own once again.
Airon: …Right now.
Under Airon’s inexperienced but attentive tutelage, Taigen’s abilities grew immensely over the next several months, driven by his desire to become strong enough and fast enough to avoid any and all attacks sent his way. It came to the point where, once a full year of training had passed by, Minto and his father and grandfather could only stand by and watch in amazement at the fruits of their labor, showcased in an all-encompassing one-on-one match. The fight started off on a lighter note, with Airon throwing a few punches at Taigen and increasing his speed as time went on, eventually leading to a match between kunai. When it became obvious that Airon’s speed was overwhelming Taigen’s, he retreated back a short ways to allow them both time to catch their breath.
Airon: Alright…now come at me on two legs.
Having never seen the ninken fight before, Konohamaru’s curious expression prompted his son, grandson, and both contenders to smile gleefully as Taigen spread his legs slightly and began tensing up before disappearing in a cloud of smoke, from which emerged his human form. As Konohamaru’s eyes widened in surprise, Taigen took the kunai in his mouth between his now flexible fingers and charged forward, lashing out a few times at Airon before jumping back on the defensive. Airon began testing his evasive skills once again, finding Taigen’s reflexes had improved greatly in this form, though the slight loss in speed hindered his movements enough to cancel out any advantage this could’ve given him. Airon’s speed ultimately became too much for him to handle, and the fight ended with a swift kick to the chest that sent him tumbling back a short distance, ending his transformation before he came to a full halt. He continued to lay there in the grass for a few seconds, trying desperately to rub his chest with whatever means he had at his disposal until Minto finally smiled and walked over, kneeling down and rubbing his chest for him, much to his animalistic pleasure.
Suzaku: Hmhmhmhm, still coming up short, Taigen…but you’re certainly getting closer. Very nicely done.
Taigen: (He stood back up as he said this, shying away as he replied.) …Thank you, sir-…Suzaku.
Suzaku smiled in amusement as he walked over and rubbed the top of Taigen’s head, meanwhile his father stood back up from a short distance away and walked over to them, as well, a delighted smile on his face as he clapped away.
Konohamaru: I’ll tell you, Taigen, I’ve seen many strong ninken over the years, but you might be in a league all your own. …I think you’d fit in well among the other ninken in our village’s Regular Forces. I’m sure some members of the Inuzuka clan would do anything to have a partner as adept as you.
Taigen’s smile vanished quickly after hearing this, as did Minto and Airon’s soon after. This past year of training had seemed more like a self-defense course to him than anything, and he never really questioned what he intended to do with his newfound abilities. He now had an viable option sitting right in front of him, but for some reason, the idea of being used as little more than a ninja tool just didn’t appease him, something Minto and Airon picked up on right away before turning to Suzaku and Konohamaru.
Minto: I think we’re gonna find someplace to play now. Thanks for watching him, Dad. Grandpa.
Suzaku: (He quickly recognized their intentions after scanning all three of their expressions, putting on a somewhat regretful face as he replied.) …Of course. See you three later.
Konohamaru: Have fun.
They were in no hurry to leave the training ground, but once they were out of sight, they quickly took off, traveling a good distance through the trees before coming to a halt. Taigen immediately lowered his head in discontent, prompting Minto to drop to his knee beside him and start rubbing his back.
Minto: Don’t worry, Taigen. You don’t have to become a ninken for the Regular Forces. He just brought it up as more of an option.
Taigen: (He shook his head and looked up at him, wearing a small smile that was obviously fake.) No, it’s fine, Minto. He does have a point, after all. …Don’t get me wrong, I do wanna be able to help the village for all it’s done for me, but really, what other use could I possibly have for them besides that?
Airon: Several, Taigen…and partnering you up with a ninja whose probably weaker than you isn’t one of them.
Both of them looked up at Airon in surprise as he set his hands on his hips and bit his lip as he looked off in the direction of the training ground, clearly irritated by Konohamaru’s previous suggestion.
Minto: …Airon…
Airon: I’ve seen a lot from you over the past year, Taigen. You’re faster and stronger than a good deal of the ninja here in the village, smarter than most of them, I’m sure, and your reflexes have improved so much that I have to go twice as fast as I used to just to land a hit on ya. You can even use a few basic jutsu, for cryin’ out loud. …There’s no way I’m gonna just watch your potential get wasted like that when you’re practically a ninja all your own.
It was easy to tell he had an idea on his mind as he looked back at Taigen, a smile on his face and determination burning in his eyes that seemed to almost border on revenge. His intelligence was unquestionable given his reputation as an “unnatural genius”, but with his secondary pastime as the newest in a bloodline of tricksters, the ninken couldn’t help but gulp as he inquired about his intentions.
Taigen: What’re we gonna do now?
Airon: (His smile morphed into a grin as he answered him.) …We’re gonna make you a full-fledged shinobi…without anyone else finding out.
Even Minto seemed taken aback by his answer, finding the idea almost too daring to even consider undertaking, but at the same time, he couldn’t help looking at Taigen and silently considering the notion. Taigen merely stared up at him in admiration of his fearlessness, though where his thoughts on the idea were concerned, he was less than enthusiastic.
Taigen: I-I dunno, Airon. That sounds easier said than-
Airon: Taigen, look at me. …I wouldn’t tell you to go along with this if I didn’t have the utmost faith that you could pull it off. Look at Minto, he feels the same way. …We know your potential, even if you don’t think you have any. …Just trust us. You always have.
Airon kneeled down in front of Taigen as he spoke, maintaining eye contact until the latter looked up at Minto upon mentioning of his name, finding him standing there smiling and nodding in agreement to Airon’s words. He did the same moments later much to Airon’s appreciation, transforming into his human form after he stepped back a few yards and motioned him to, apparently eager to begin prepping him now. As he pulled out two kunai and tossed one to him, though, doubts suddenly began flowing through his mind once again.
Taigen: And what if everyone finds out about it?
Airon: …They won’t.
????: He’s right, Taigen.
All three of them suddenly looked off in the direction of the training ground with wide eyes, finding Suzaku walking up to them through the trees, having apparently caught the majority of their conversation. He stopped a short distance behind Airon, crossing his arms and smiling over at Taigen, as if ready to observe their training.
Suzaku: You’ll get through the Academy just fine…these two aren’t the only ones who have faith in you.
As if all the tension in his body suddenly faded away, Taigen smiled back at him and nodded his appreciation before holding his kunai out towards Airon, who smiled and did the same before charging forward at breakneck speed.
What had once been a quest for self-preservation was now a journey to push one’s speed and strength to their respective limits, and this made Taigen’s training all the more demanding. He spent many a day fighting Airon well into the night to only Minto and Suzaku’s knowledge, enduring countless injuries in his attempts to surpass the speed of Airon’s attacks, which increased every time he had improved past a certain point. One such night, nearly a year into their rigorous training regimen, he found himself alone with Airon at the Third Training Ground long after all of its other potential users had turned in for the day, with Minto as their only observer. Poor weather had darkened the skies at an hour where they would normally still have light, but Airon insisted on them remaining outside, despite the approaching storm and Taigen’s obvious exhaustion.
Airon: Come on, Taigen. You gotta be faster than that.
Taigen: Huhh…huhh…but, Airon…huhh, we’ve been out here for hours. I can hear the rain clouds coming in the distance. Let’s just-
A loud snap of Airon’s fingers returned Taigen’s attention to him, an inviting motion shortly afterwards prompting him to reluctantly take on his human form once again. Despite his exhaustion, Taigen continued to evade his punches through sheer will before receiving one to the shoulder, hardly damaging but more than enough to bring an end to his transformation. Airon motioned for him to begin the process anew as had happened dozens of times already today, prompting their sole onlooker to voice his own worry as dark clouds formed above them.
Minto: Airon, just let him go back inside for-
Minto’s plea came to an abrupt end upon seeing Airon’s outstretched palm, the latter’s cold eyes still focused on Taigen’s now worried expression.
Airon: You wanna go back home tonight, Taigen? …Then you’re gonna have to walk over me.
Waiting for Taigen to take his human form once more, he rushed forward at a faster pace than had been seen at any other point that night, which didn’t take long to overwhelm the young ninken.
Airon: You gotta move faster, Taigen! Come on! Faster!
Taigen indeed put more effort into his movements, but in the end, was sent flying back several feet with a swift kick to the side of the chest. Noting the increased brutality of this attack in comparison to what came before it, both Minto and Taigen looked at Airon in shock, who was breathing heavily with a notably furious look on his face.
Airon: Pathetic!! Come on, get up! You wanna get through the Academy, you can’t allow a single person to land a hit on you! …Or is it that you WANT people to keep hurting you over and over again?
Minto noticed his intentions through using such statements and held no grudge towards it, but he couldn’t help but pity Taigen, who still lying on the ground and looking up at Airon with fear in his eyes. His final remark, however, managed to trigger something in his mind and force him back on his feet, a determined frown on his face that matched his own. Seeing this, the fury in Airon’s eyes slowly disappeared, though he still refrained from smiling as he tightened the black gloves on his hands, the first of many raindrops hitting the ground as he rushed forward again. He started off at the same speed as he did before, only this time, Taigen dodged all his attacks with ease. He continued to do this after a few slight increases in the speed of his punches before landing yet another hit, though Taigen didn’t remain grounded for long and quickly transformed once again.
Airon: Faster, Taigen! Come on, you’re nearly there!
A few more rounds of punching and dodging passed before Airon motioned for him to begin throwing hits of his own. Taigen made the transition from defense to offense relatively smoothly from that point on, but in the end, he was forced to transform once again.
Airon: Faster!!
The matter of dodging Airon’s attacks outright had all but disappeared by this point in their fight, the issue at hand now being avoiding them while landing a hit of his own. Taigen made contact a few times after that, but each time was either blocked with ease or simply wasn’t strong enough to send Airon to the ground. On one particular instance, he lunged forward with as much strength as he could manage after evading a series of particularly fast punches and kicks, only for Airon to phase out of the way and grab him by the collar as he slipped past him, swinging him around and sending him tumbling across the ground. To Minto’s surprise, though, his transformation held firm with no minor injuries to his body, and he quickly stood back up and charged Airon, hatred burning in his eyes as he gritted his still caninesque teeth.
Airon: FASTER, TAIGEN, COME ON!!! IF YOU CAN’T KNOCK ME DOWN, YOU’RE BETTER OFF JUST LIVING LIFE AS A HOUSEPET!!!
Taigen: AAARRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!
As he came within reach, Airon threw out punches at the highest speed he could possibly manage at that stage of his development, but Taigen used his canine reflexes and sharp senses to avoid every one of them with ease, doing the same every time he threw one in between his own attempts to hit him. The struggle seemed to last an eternity despite being only a few seconds, ending with Taigen collapsing from exhaustion, though not before landing a sharp blow to Airon’s shoulder and then tripping him up with a front sweep that send him tumbling to the ground. Exhausted, Airon rubbed the back of his head where he hit the ground as he sat up, using that same hand to rub Taigen’s chest.
Airon: Huhh…huhh…there…you made it…huhh, now let’s see to it no one ever lays a hand on you again.
Taigen smiled through his heavy breaths, glad to know all his training would soon be coming to fruition. Meanwhile, Minto found more relief from the fight’s conclusion than satisfaction, as it’d been raining hard for several minutes by that point.
Minto: Can we go back inside now, please!?
Neither one of them having noticed the rain during their fight’s final stretch, Airon and Taigen looked up at the dark sky for a moment before chuckling to themselves and standing back up.
Airon: Sounds like a plan.
Airon and Minto had pushed Taigen to his physical limits, but the true challenge had only just begun. With Suzaku and Konohamaru ensuring documents of his citizenship in the village were taken care of, the latter being let in on their endeavor out of necessity, all that was left was to enroll him as a student. Once his grandfather had assured this was done, Minto led him to the Academy, resting his hand on his shoulder when the transformed ninken stopped just outside the massive building.
Minto: It’ll be alright, Taigen. …You’re ready.
Still nervous and wishing Airon was there to help him along, as well, Taigen nonetheless noted Minto’s warm smile and returned it along with a nod before the two walked through the large double doors. Waiting just to the right of the doorway was an older chūnin who looked to be in his mid-twenties standing behind a desk, whom Minto spoke to in order to ensure Taigen was on the enrollment sheet.
????: Let’s see…ah, here we go. Taigen…you have another brother, Honorable Grandson?
Minto: (He looked off to the side in minor embarrassment, somewhat annoyed by the title he was given.) Weelll, sort of. He’s lived with us for a few years now. …He’s an orphan.
He leaned forward and lowered his voice as he added that final remark, causing the older man’s eyes to widen slightly, only to return to their normal size momentarily as he turned to Taigen and smiled.
????: I see. Well, welcome to the Academy, Taigen. I look forward to seeing your skills.
Taigen: (He lowered his head as he spoke to him, looking up briefly to give his response.) …Thank you, sir.
Minto smiled at this before leading him down the large hallway, a few sharp turns eventually bringing them to Minto’s classroom, which was helmed by a rather familiar face. Once all the regular students had taken their normal seats, she stepped forward to make an announcement, adjusting her glasses beforehand.
Sarada: Alright, students! We have a new addition to our class today that I’d like you all to meet! …Go ahead and introduce yourself.
She smiled down at Taigen before stepping off to the side in order to bring him in plain view of every student in the class. His face already beet-red, he gulped all the air in his mouth before speaking.
Taigen: Um…my name is Taigen. I’m, uh…real-really looking forward to being a student here.
He bowed as he finished, heaving a sigh of relief when a handful of students returned his introduction, finding not a hint of laughter among them. After that, Sarada motioned him towards where Minto was seated, much to his gratefulness, waiting until he had taken one of the two seats between him and Kei before speaking up again.
Sarada: Let’s be sure to make him feel welcome while he’s here! Now then, let’s start off today with…
As she began her first lesson of the day, Minto nudged Taigen on the shoulder to get his attention, having sensed his discomfort with being around so many people he was unfamiliar with – and who were unfamiliar with him in return.
Minto: Airon and Manako should’ve already told the rest of our group, so don’t worry about everyone else. …We’ll get through this in a year’s time, alright?
Being only his first day, Taigen’s tension had hardly settled down yet, but Minto’s remarks were enough to ensure him that it would in due time, and he smiled back at him in appreciation.
Under the watchful gaze of Minto and everyone else in the Academy who knew of his true nature, Taigen excelled in all areas of his classes, his excessive preparation prior to his enrollment having already pushed him well past the efforts shown by others of his classmates. The knowledge bequeathed to him by both Airon and Suzaku made written exams a breeze, while his heavy physical training with the former made things like taijutsu and basic ninjutsu just as easy. A few months passed where this was enough to leave him with no suspicion from anyone in the Academy by the time one-on-one matches started being held between students, his first true test. Those deemed ready to participate gathered in the schoolyard, resulting in a group of roughly thirty anxious students which included Taigen, Minto, Kei, Kemono, Ide, Kenji, Katsuto, Shikaru, Inoka, Chōzen, Miyuki, and Chan, at the helm of which was yet another familiar face from the previous generation.
Inojin: Okay, then. The rules of these one-on-one matches are very simple. When I call your names, two of you will step up to the lines, form the Seal of Confrontation, then start the brawl. The fight ends when one of you gets pinned to the ground or is unable to keep going, at which point you’ll both stand up and form the Seal of Reconciliation. This is required for all students as it symbolizes that this was merely a temporary conflict and you are both still comrades of the same village. Understood?
He waited until he had counted roughly thirty nods before continuing.
Inojin: Perfect. Alright, the first two I want to see are…Kei and Ide.
Ide: I would really prefer not to fight, Inojin-sensei.
Inojin: (Half-expecting this from her, he rubbed the back of his head and smirked as he heaved a sigh of minor annoyance.) Huhhh, alright then. How about Kei and Kemono?
Kemono: Yeah! That’s what I’m talkin’ about!
Kei: Heh he, bring it on!
Being only a sparring match, Kemono left the small Mukinu on the sidelines with the rest of the groups, where the small ninken quickly found its way over to Taigen, whose leg it began sniffing profusely. Already breaking out in a sweat, the latter desperately motioned over to its partner as a troubled Minto watched from beside him.
Taigen: Uhhh, psst! Kemono?
Kemono: (Turning around right away, he looked down at Mukinu and quickly noted the concern at hand.) Hey, Mukinu. Lay off him, okay, bud?
Taigen: (When Mukinu followed his request without delay, he heaved a sigh of relief and smiled back at him.) Phew…thank you.
Minto: Hmhm, not too popular with dogs, are ya…other dogs, I should say?
Taigen: (Nearly jumping, he looked around to ensure no one heard him before nudging him in the chest.) Shut up, Minto.
The other students in the group all watched as Kei and Kemono’s spar commenced, a handful of them shouting for one to win or the other. Both were relatively well-matched, but after a few minutes, exhaustion began to come over them, Kemono being the first to succumb to it as one missed swing led to him being tackled to the ground.
Kei: Huhh…huhh…whew, I win!! Ha HA, in your face, Inase! Saying I would lose my first one-on-one match!
Inojin: Alright, that’s enough of that, Kei. Now, as I said, both of you form the Seal of Reconciliation.
Returning to his feet, Kemono returned Kei’s grin with a scowl as he reluctantly formed the seal with him.
Kemono: Ya got lucky, punk. See what happens next time.
Kei: Ha, anytime and anyplace.
Inojin: (Waiting until they returned to the sidelines, he scanned the rest of the group for the next two combatants.) Alright, next up is…Taigen and…
Taigen: (Please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto-)
Inojin: …Katsuto.
As his opponent stepped forward with his trademark arrogant smirk plastered on his face, Taigen lowered his head in disappointment, only to raise it again as Minto rested his hand on his back and leaned in closer.
Minto: You’ve been training with Airon for over two years, Taigen…you’ve got nothing to worry about.
A moment of contemplation later, Taigen reaffirmed his resolve and stepped forward to take his position, fixing his eyes on his opponent’s feet.
Inojin: Alright…begin.
Katsuto: You’re mine now, kid!
The moment he rushed forward, Taigen looked back up and stepped back a short ways to evade his first swing, dodging those that followed with ease. Not expecting him to put up that much of a fight, Katsuto’s frustration continued to surface with every failed attempt to land a hit, while on the sidelines, Minto carefully studied his movements.
Minto: (Come on, Taigen. There’s an opening in there somewhere…)
Katsuto: (Jeez, he’s fast! Wish I had my Sharingan already…)
With his punches doing little to serve his chances of victory, Katsuto resorted to a roundhouse kick to knock his opponent down. Taigen dodged this without hesitation, but Katsuto kept his leg in the air just long enough to give him an opening.
Minto: (There!)
Crouching down, Taigen used a sweep kick to send him tumbling to the ground, much to his shock.
Katsuto: (What!?) Rrgh, crap!!
Holding his clenched fist over his face to ensure he didn’t move, Taigen glanced back over at Minto to see his reaction to his victory, finding him smiling and nodding his approval.
Inojin: The winner is…Taig-
Minto: TAIGEN, LOOK OUT!!!
The scream was hardly necessary, as Minto found a mere second later, much to his relief, that Taigen had already caught on to Katsuto’s underhandedness and leapt away in time to avoid his grasp. He quickly stood back up to make a second attempt, but their instructor jumped into the fold before he could do so.
Inojin: That’s enough, Katsuto! The fight is already over…now, form the Seal of Reconciliation.
Taigen stepped up to him without hesitation, though from watching his eyes, one could tell he was clearly still suspicious of Katsuto’s intentions. The thought was indeed on Katsuto’s mind, but in the end, he decided against any further schemery and reluctantly made the seal with him.
Katsuto: You won’t be so lucky next time.
Unfazed by his threat, Taigen returned his gaze with a confident smirk as Minto looked on with a smile, both of their minds now free of any doubts in the former’s chances of getting through the Academy.
Taigen: …I beg to differ.
As Minto had promised and Taigen had come to expect, the latter was able to graduate from the Academy not only without being discovered, but with a reputation as one of the most promising new genin in his class. With the remainder of their peers having becoming shinobi at long last, each of them began squaring off into teams, Kei going off to join Airon and Inase in Team Naruto, Kemono to join Raiden and Kūrogane in Team Katame, Ide and Kenji to join Irezumi, Miyuki and Chan to join Hitomi, and Minto and Taigen to join Nakama as part of the newly formed Team Suzaku. Their first official meeting came only a week later at the Third Training Ground, where Suzaku took a moment to stand with his arms crossed and admire the three young shinobi standing in front of him. Minto and Nakama were displaying their new headbands around their waists, just as Airon did with his own, while Taigen had wrapped his tightly around his forehead, as if eager to show the entire world that he was, in fact, a ninja.
Suzaku: Congratulations to all three of you. As of now, you’re all officially genin. …I couldn’t be more proud of you.
Nakama and Minto accepted his praise in stride as they looked to their left, where stood Taigen with as proud an expression as the three of them had seen from him in the longest time. Suzaku returned it in kind, though it was quickly replaced by a look of determination.
Suzaku: Your training isn’t nearly over yet, Taigen. You thought Airon was gonna run you into the ground…well, I was taught by his grandfather. Trust me, once I’m done with you, even he and Manako won’t be able to lay a hand on you.
Less than a year before, Taigen might have cowered in fear at such a bold declaration, but now, he felt as though he no longer had anything to fear. He had gone through hell over the past three years, pushing his body and mind past their limits to the point where he had become nigh untouchable, and the thought of pushing himself even further was now a joy rather than a hindrance. His new teammates noticed this new state of mind, as well, and they smiled in satisfaction as he answered their sensei’s assertion.
Taigen: Let’s do it.
In the coliseum, cries of hatred and disapproval continued to rain upon Taigen from the nearby stands, forcing him to curl his body up further with each one that hit his ears. Airon continued to hold back Ryūza’s fury as Minto and Nakama tended to their friend and teammate, the former eventually finding his suffering too much to handle.
Minto: Get him out of here…please.
He looked up at Airon as the latter turned around, looking down at Taigen for a moment before nodding in agreement, putting away his sword and kneeling down beside him.
Airon: Come on, Taigen. Let’s go.
Taigen merely buried his head into his chest, unable to bring himself to even look up at him. His guilt still strong, Airon gently set his hand on his head and brushed it back with his thumb as a saddened expression found its way onto his face.
Airon: I’m not mad at you, buddy. No one is, alright? …We’ll sort this out later, I promise. Let’s just get you home for now.
Again, Taigen gave no response other than to adjust his legs slightly, which Airon took as a sign of agreement before suddenly vanishing from the balcony along with him. Noticing this from above, Baiko looked up at the Kages’ balcony for answers on how to proceed, a signal from Konohamaru prompting him to address the still riled audience.
Baiko: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Kage are requesting a brief recess to evaluate the current situation!
As he disappeared in a gust of wind and reemerged on the balcony overhead, most of the audience’s complaints ceased, though a fair amount of noise could still be heard from the stands. Seeing all the commotion this incident had produced, Suzaku rested his chin on his hands, looking down at the floor in guilt as his wife slid her arm over his back and rested her head on his shoulder.
Suzaku: Everything was perfectly fine…defeating Ryūza could’ve easily gotten him the promotion on its own, but…then this had to happen.
Ayumi: He’ll be alright, hon…your father will find a way to help him out of this…I’m sure of it.
He nodded to acknowledgement her words, though he couldn’t say for sure he really believed in them. Meanwhile, above the stands, with Konohamaru remaining silent about his involvement in Taigen’s affairs, the other Kages’ target for criticism became Naruto, who leaned his back against the railing with his arms crossed as he listened to them.
Darui: You knew of this scheme the entire time!? Naruto, I’m sorry, but what the hell was going through your head!?
Kurotsuchi: This could considered a serious offense by other nations and you simply allowed it to happen! Imagine what message that sends about both you and the dealings of your village!
Naruto: (His grip on his forearm tightened with each remark sent his way, not even bringing himself to look up at them as he stared off towards the competitors’ balcony with a frown.) My grandson thought his friend deserved to be treated as more than a ninken and tried to help him overcome that restriction. I didn’t see any harm in letting it play out and still don’t.
Gaara: This isn’t about harming others, Naruto. This is about the reputation of the entire shinobi system.
Chōjūrō: A ninken managed to slip into the Academy’s ranks and even graduate without being exposed, so what’s to stop a rogue ninja to doing the same? There are several potential consequences that can come from this spectacle today, Naruto Uzumaki.
Konohamaru: (His status as Hokage preventing him from defending Naruto, he merely listened to his colleagues as he leaned back in his chair, eventually sitting up once he’d heard enough.) That’s enough, everyone…I’ll see to this matter myself once the exams are over. I promise you all that.
The sorrow in his expression was quite visible to the rest of them, but nonetheless, the others gave in to his wishes and all negativity subsequently resolved itself. Seeing their debate had ended, Baiko spoke up once more.
Baiko: I need an answer now, Lord Hokage.
Konohamaru: (He stared up at him for a moment before looking back down and waving him off.) …Just let him through. Be sure to make note of Ryūza, as well.
Darui: (As Baiko nodded and vanished again, he rubbed his eyes and rested his cheek against his knuckles.) Truly embarrassing…I can only imagine how many other people in this village knew about this.
His words continued to echo through Naruto and Konohamaru’s thoughts as they looked back down at the arena, where Baiko reappeared moments later. Soon afterwards, Airon also reappeared on the competitors’ balcony, quickly greeted by a concerned Minto and Nakama.
Minto: How is he?
Nakama: Is he still hurt?
Airon: (He leaned back over the railing, not even looking at them as he replied.) He just ran into a closet and curled up the moment we teleported into his room. I’ve still got a clone talking with him right now. …I hope these last few matches go by quickly.
Taigen’s teammates looked at each other in worry upon hearing this, but with the tournament still well underway, neither could do anything about it and they both stared down at the arena as Baiko readdressed the audience.
Baiko: The Kage have reached a verdict! Hitomi Hyūga will advance to the semi-finals with no contest, and special consideration will be given towards Ryūza for his part as a victim of this mix-up!
The audience seemed pleased with this outcome overall, but most were still angered that this incident came about in the first place, including Ryūza, who was still staring at Airon as if looking for reparations.
Ryūza: I expect you to answer for this.
Airon: (He stared back at him with hatred burning in his eyes.) I already am…or were you talking about for YOUR “suffering”?
Put off his gaze, Ryūza uttered not another word and vanished in a small cloud of sand, afterwhich Minto immediately walked up to Airon to answer for the entire episode.
Minto: His overconfidence was my fault…I shouldn’t have given him so much praise when what he really needed was caution.
Airon: (He shook his head as he continued to stare down at the arena.) He just made a mistake, Minto. It was the brackets that set things up this way, that’s all there is to it. …Besides, I was his original trainer…I’m the one who made him think he’d grown invincible.
Nakama: (She walked up to his other side with sadness still in her eyes, fixing to set her hand atop his own before drawing it away at the last moment.) There’s no point blaming either of you for this, Airon. …Taigen’s not at home sobbing right now because of something you did. You shouldn’t think that way, either.
Airon looked at her for a moment as though prepared to reply, but before he could do so, they were interrupted by a new arrival through the corridor entrance – the match’s undecided victor, who looked around for a moment before gazing up at Airon.
Hitomi: He’s already gone?
Airon answered with a simple nod, prompting him to lower his head in regret.
Hitomi: I am truly sorry for all of this…my arrogance just got the better of me.
Airon: (He traded glances with Nakama, both of them exchanging their first smiles in over thirty minutes before he replied.) What’s done is done, Hitomi…hmhm, I think you’ve got bigger issues to worry about now, anyways.
Hitomi: (He looked at Nakama after hearing this, put off by her somewhat devious expression.) …Tell me about it. (She’s not the kind to try and avenge her teammates, is she?)
Airon: (Oh, trust me, you’re in for a world of hurt now.)
Hitomi turned away with an awkward smile on his face as the stadium finally died down, the tournament finally underway once again.
Baiko: The next match will now commence…Irezumi Yamanaka and Manako Uchiha, make your way to the arena!
Taigen is forced to pull out – does Irezumi have what it takes to go head-to-head with Manako!!?
The End
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Chapter 066: Taigen of Team Suzaku
Five months had passed since Taigen settled into the Sarutobi residence, and by now, Airon and Minto’s peers had come to accept him as one of their own. For some of them, it was even difficult not to, as with his ability to speak, impressive physical prowess, and their similarities in age – speaking in terms of human to dog years – he was essentially another aspiring young shinobi growing up in the Leaf village. Whether it was a day at the park, sitting down for a meal, or partaking in one of Airon or Kei’s dumb stunts or pranks, he had no trouble finding his own place amongst the fun, as was the case with the race Inase, Kei, him, and Minto were currently having from the former’s home all the way to the latter’s. The layout of the village made the task tedious enough, but with their days in the Academy having barely started, Kei and Minto found themselves at odds with the recently graduated Inase.
Kei: Inase, come on!! You said you’d go easy on us this time!!
Inase: I am! I’m barely going half as fast as I usually do! If you really want to test your speed, Kei, trying keeping up with Taigen!
Kei: I’m not racing with a dog!! Are you nuts!?
No sooner after he made this bold remark did the aforementioned dog speed past him, leaping up onto a small nearby building and leaping back down again in front of Inase.
Inase: Whoa!! Hold on a second there!
Minto: Go, Taigen, go!!
Kei: Yeah, put that show-off in her place!!
Inase immediately set aside her limitations and showed off her full speed, but to her surprise, the moment she recaptured the lead, it was stolen once again, their neck-and-neck match enduring all the way to Minto’s home, where Taigen eventually emerged the victor.
Inase: Phew…huhh…huhh, wow. …Huhh, you’ve gotten a lot faster, Taigen.
Taigen: (Panting heavily, he waited until Kei and Minto finally caught up before giving a reply.) …Huhh, we’re normally racing with two others who are a lot faster than any of us. …Huhh, I’m just trying to push as hard as I can so I can give THEM a run for their money.
Minto: (He smiled through his heavy breaths and rested his hand on Taigen’s head.) Phew…huhh, well, you’re well on your way to that, buddy. …Huhh, let’s go find ‘em real quick. They should be at that training spot.
Liking the idea themselves, the rest of the group immediately took off towards the outskirts of the village, where rested the Third Training Ground.
Though times of destruction and reconstruction had robbed it of its natural beauty at times, the iconic training ground still retained much of its basic landscape even after four decades, and it was here that a young Airon and Manako spent much of their time together displaying their current abilities and, at times, pitting them against one another. Today, they were joined by a young Nakama, the final piece of their prodigious trifecta, as Manako proceeded to demonstrate his mastery over the Chidori, forming a concentrated beam that pierced through all three of the wooden posts from roughly a dozen yards away. In response, Airon pulled out his recently crafted katana and proceeded to channel his chakra through it before balancing it in midair for several seconds, a feat his two rivals were quick to comment on as he returned it to its sheath.
Nakama: That’s amazing, Airon!
Manako: Man, I’ve gotta work up to that.
Airon: Hehehehe, yeah. And in the meantime, I’ll try matching your reflexes. …Oh, and hey, I’ve been figuring out how to do this, too! Watch.
After checking to ensure he had their undivided attention, he clasped his hands together as the soles of his feet began glowing blue, courtesy of the huge amounts of chakra pouring into them. After doing this for a few seconds, he lifted one of his feet a few inches off the ground, keeping it there for a brief moment before slowly lifting his other foot, as well. Manako and Nakama watched in astonishment as it continued to move up for several seconds on end, nearly reaching the same altitude as his other foot before his balance finally broke and he fell back to the ground.
Manako: …How the heck did you do that?
Airon: Heh, well, it ain’t easy. Just imagine trying to walk on water, but focusing your chakra a thousand times harder than you’d have to for that.
Manako: That’s incredible…I don’t know how I can top that.
Airon: Hehe, simple. You don’t.
Nakama: Well hey, take a look at this, guys!
They quickly stopped and turned to her as her hair began thrashing about, the air around her roaring violently upward for several seconds until it eventually began lifting her off the ground. She remained roughly two feet in the air for almost a minute before ending her technique and returned gracefully to the ground, where a grinning Airon and an impressed, but slightly annoyed Manako awaited her.
Manako: You really enjoy showing off, don’t you, Nakama?
Airon: Hehehahaha, come on, Manako! That was great!
Their private display was put on hold moments later as Inase’s group found their way to the training ground at last, a panting Kei and Minto coming up behind her and Taigen, much to her older brother’s amusement.
Airon: Hehehehe, well? How much did you beat ‘em by this time, Inase?
Inase: (She smiled and looked at Taigen.) …I didn’t win this time.
Surprised by this, Airon and Nakama looked at the ninken in both amazement and satisfaction, as did Manako to a lesser extent.
Manako: I should probably check in at home, Airon.
Airon: (His mind now fixed on other things, he only tilted his head slightly and held out his hand to bid him farewell.) Alright. Catch ya later, cuz.
They clapped hands before Manako took off back towards the village, at which point Airon walked up to Taigen and smiled down at him.
Airon: You really have been getting stronger, haven’t you?
Inase: That’s what I said.
Taigen: (He turned his head away in minor embarrassment.) I wouldn’t say that…you guys have just been really good to me, y’know?
Airon: Hmhm, well, I won’t argue with that…so come on. Show me what you got.
He tossed a kunai into the air before leaping back, pulling out another one as Taigen caught that one in his mouth and rushed forward. Their weapons clashed multiple times before Taigen lunged forward too far and Airon slid fluidly out of his path, reaching out to grab him as he passed by. The sight of Airon’s hand passing over his eye, however, brought back terrible memories which Taigen couldn’t bear to remember, prompting him to swing his head in such a way that Airon was forced to pull his arm back to avoid being impaled by the kunai still caught between his jaws.
Nakama: Taigen, calm down! It’s alri-
She ran forward to touch him as he swung his head at Airon again, prompting him to snap his jaws viciously in her direction, the kunai falling from his mouth as he did. Now infuriated at him having lashed out at Nakama, Airon leapt on top of him and wrapped his arms around his body, tackling him to the ground as Minto came forward to attempt to diffuse the situation.
Minto: TAIGEN!!!
Taigen continued to thrash about as Airon fastened his hold on him, but his movements gradually subsided once Minto placed his hand on him and began running his fingers through his fur.
Minto: Just chill, buddy. Okay? …Relax.
Once Taigen had completely calmed down, Airon loosened his grip, though he continued to hold him in place as he began whimpering under his breath, still haunted by his memories from before.
Taigen: Don’t hurt me…please…I don’t wanna get hurt again.
All three of them looked at Taigen in pity, as did the onlooking Inase and Kei, and Airon slowly moved out from underneath him as Minto began running his hand further up his body, pressing his forehead against his head as he gently caressed his neck.
Minto: No one else is gonna hurt you, buddy. Ever…I promise.
Airon: He’s right…and I’m gonna help you make sure of that.
Taigen: (He gazed up at Airon after he said this, as did Minto, a look of wonder and innocence in his eyes as he responded.) …You mean it?
Worry quickly replaced his admiration as he awaited Airon’s response, the long wait prompting the others to begin questioning his sincerity, as well. From his expression, Airon was obviously reevaluating the gist of his promise, and he heaved a sigh of minor disappointment before glancing back down at Taigen.
Airon: Yeah…but I’m afraid you’re gonna have to take a few hits in the meantime…just to make sure you can avoid a lot more later on…alright?
The thought of injury was clearly not in Taigen’s best interests, even to serve him better in the long run, but the determination in Airon’s eyes and assuring nod from Minto prompted Taigen to return both gestures in kind before standing back up.
Taigen: When do we start?
Smiling, Airon picked up the kunai lying a few feet away and tossed it to Taigen before pulling out one of his own once again.
Airon: …Right now.
– One Year Later –
Under Airon’s inexperienced but attentive tutelage, Taigen’s abilities grew immensely over the next several months, driven by his desire to become strong enough and fast enough to avoid any and all attacks sent his way. It came to the point where, once a full year of training had passed by, Minto and his father and grandfather could only stand by and watch in amazement at the fruits of their labor, showcased in an all-encompassing one-on-one match. The fight started off on a lighter note, with Airon throwing a few punches at Taigen and increasing his speed as time went on, eventually leading to a match between kunai. When it became obvious that Airon’s speed was overwhelming Taigen’s, he retreated back a short ways to allow them both time to catch their breath.
Airon: Alright…now come at me on two legs.
Having never seen the ninken fight before, Konohamaru’s curious expression prompted his son, grandson, and both contenders to smile gleefully as Taigen spread his legs slightly and began tensing up before disappearing in a cloud of smoke, from which emerged his human form. As Konohamaru’s eyes widened in surprise, Taigen took the kunai in his mouth between his now flexible fingers and charged forward, lashing out a few times at Airon before jumping back on the defensive. Airon began testing his evasive skills once again, finding Taigen’s reflexes had improved greatly in this form, though the slight loss in speed hindered his movements enough to cancel out any advantage this could’ve given him. Airon’s speed ultimately became too much for him to handle, and the fight ended with a swift kick to the chest that sent him tumbling back a short distance, ending his transformation before he came to a full halt. He continued to lay there in the grass for a few seconds, trying desperately to rub his chest with whatever means he had at his disposal until Minto finally smiled and walked over, kneeling down and rubbing his chest for him, much to his animalistic pleasure.
Suzaku: Hmhmhmhm, still coming up short, Taigen…but you’re certainly getting closer. Very nicely done.
Taigen: (He stood back up as he said this, shying away as he replied.) …Thank you, sir-…Suzaku.
Suzaku smiled in amusement as he walked over and rubbed the top of Taigen’s head, meanwhile his father stood back up from a short distance away and walked over to them, as well, a delighted smile on his face as he clapped away.
Konohamaru: I’ll tell you, Taigen, I’ve seen many strong ninken over the years, but you might be in a league all your own. …I think you’d fit in well among the other ninken in our village’s Regular Forces. I’m sure some members of the Inuzuka clan would do anything to have a partner as adept as you.
Taigen’s smile vanished quickly after hearing this, as did Minto and Airon’s soon after. This past year of training had seemed more like a self-defense course to him than anything, and he never really questioned what he intended to do with his newfound abilities. He now had an viable option sitting right in front of him, but for some reason, the idea of being used as little more than a ninja tool just didn’t appease him, something Minto and Airon picked up on right away before turning to Suzaku and Konohamaru.
Minto: I think we’re gonna find someplace to play now. Thanks for watching him, Dad. Grandpa.
Suzaku: (He quickly recognized their intentions after scanning all three of their expressions, putting on a somewhat regretful face as he replied.) …Of course. See you three later.
Konohamaru: Have fun.
They were in no hurry to leave the training ground, but once they were out of sight, they quickly took off, traveling a good distance through the trees before coming to a halt. Taigen immediately lowered his head in discontent, prompting Minto to drop to his knee beside him and start rubbing his back.
Minto: Don’t worry, Taigen. You don’t have to become a ninken for the Regular Forces. He just brought it up as more of an option.
Taigen: (He shook his head and looked up at him, wearing a small smile that was obviously fake.) No, it’s fine, Minto. He does have a point, after all. …Don’t get me wrong, I do wanna be able to help the village for all it’s done for me, but really, what other use could I possibly have for them besides that?
Airon: Several, Taigen…and partnering you up with a ninja whose probably weaker than you isn’t one of them.
Both of them looked up at Airon in surprise as he set his hands on his hips and bit his lip as he looked off in the direction of the training ground, clearly irritated by Konohamaru’s previous suggestion.
Minto: …Airon…
Airon: I’ve seen a lot from you over the past year, Taigen. You’re faster and stronger than a good deal of the ninja here in the village, smarter than most of them, I’m sure, and your reflexes have improved so much that I have to go twice as fast as I used to just to land a hit on ya. You can even use a few basic jutsu, for cryin’ out loud. …There’s no way I’m gonna just watch your potential get wasted like that when you’re practically a ninja all your own.
It was easy to tell he had an idea on his mind as he looked back at Taigen, a smile on his face and determination burning in his eyes that seemed to almost border on revenge. His intelligence was unquestionable given his reputation as an “unnatural genius”, but with his secondary pastime as the newest in a bloodline of tricksters, the ninken couldn’t help but gulp as he inquired about his intentions.
Taigen: What’re we gonna do now?
Airon: (His smile morphed into a grin as he answered him.) …We’re gonna make you a full-fledged shinobi…without anyone else finding out.
Even Minto seemed taken aback by his answer, finding the idea almost too daring to even consider undertaking, but at the same time, he couldn’t help looking at Taigen and silently considering the notion. Taigen merely stared up at him in admiration of his fearlessness, though where his thoughts on the idea were concerned, he was less than enthusiastic.
Taigen: I-I dunno, Airon. That sounds easier said than-
Airon: Taigen, look at me. …I wouldn’t tell you to go along with this if I didn’t have the utmost faith that you could pull it off. Look at Minto, he feels the same way. …We know your potential, even if you don’t think you have any. …Just trust us. You always have.
Airon kneeled down in front of Taigen as he spoke, maintaining eye contact until the latter looked up at Minto upon mentioning of his name, finding him standing there smiling and nodding in agreement to Airon’s words. He did the same moments later much to Airon’s appreciation, transforming into his human form after he stepped back a few yards and motioned him to, apparently eager to begin prepping him now. As he pulled out two kunai and tossed one to him, though, doubts suddenly began flowing through his mind once again.
Taigen: And what if everyone finds out about it?
Airon: …They won’t.
????: He’s right, Taigen.
All three of them suddenly looked off in the direction of the training ground with wide eyes, finding Suzaku walking up to them through the trees, having apparently caught the majority of their conversation. He stopped a short distance behind Airon, crossing his arms and smiling over at Taigen, as if ready to observe their training.
Suzaku: You’ll get through the Academy just fine…these two aren’t the only ones who have faith in you.
As if all the tension in his body suddenly faded away, Taigen smiled back at him and nodded his appreciation before holding his kunai out towards Airon, who smiled and did the same before charging forward at breakneck speed.
– One Year Later –
What had once been a quest for self-preservation was now a journey to push one’s speed and strength to their respective limits, and this made Taigen’s training all the more demanding. He spent many a day fighting Airon well into the night to only Minto and Suzaku’s knowledge, enduring countless injuries in his attempts to surpass the speed of Airon’s attacks, which increased every time he had improved past a certain point. One such night, nearly a year into their rigorous training regimen, he found himself alone with Airon at the Third Training Ground long after all of its other potential users had turned in for the day, with Minto as their only observer. Poor weather had darkened the skies at an hour where they would normally still have light, but Airon insisted on them remaining outside, despite the approaching storm and Taigen’s obvious exhaustion.
Airon: Come on, Taigen. You gotta be faster than that.
Taigen: Huhh…huhh…but, Airon…huhh, we’ve been out here for hours. I can hear the rain clouds coming in the distance. Let’s just-
A loud snap of Airon’s fingers returned Taigen’s attention to him, an inviting motion shortly afterwards prompting him to reluctantly take on his human form once again. Despite his exhaustion, Taigen continued to evade his punches through sheer will before receiving one to the shoulder, hardly damaging but more than enough to bring an end to his transformation. Airon motioned for him to begin the process anew as had happened dozens of times already today, prompting their sole onlooker to voice his own worry as dark clouds formed above them.
Minto: Airon, just let him go back inside for-
Minto’s plea came to an abrupt end upon seeing Airon’s outstretched palm, the latter’s cold eyes still focused on Taigen’s now worried expression.
Airon: You wanna go back home tonight, Taigen? …Then you’re gonna have to walk over me.
Waiting for Taigen to take his human form once more, he rushed forward at a faster pace than had been seen at any other point that night, which didn’t take long to overwhelm the young ninken.
Airon: You gotta move faster, Taigen! Come on! Faster!
Taigen indeed put more effort into his movements, but in the end, was sent flying back several feet with a swift kick to the side of the chest. Noting the increased brutality of this attack in comparison to what came before it, both Minto and Taigen looked at Airon in shock, who was breathing heavily with a notably furious look on his face.
Airon: Pathetic!! Come on, get up! You wanna get through the Academy, you can’t allow a single person to land a hit on you! …Or is it that you WANT people to keep hurting you over and over again?
Minto noticed his intentions through using such statements and held no grudge towards it, but he couldn’t help but pity Taigen, who still lying on the ground and looking up at Airon with fear in his eyes. His final remark, however, managed to trigger something in his mind and force him back on his feet, a determined frown on his face that matched his own. Seeing this, the fury in Airon’s eyes slowly disappeared, though he still refrained from smiling as he tightened the black gloves on his hands, the first of many raindrops hitting the ground as he rushed forward again. He started off at the same speed as he did before, only this time, Taigen dodged all his attacks with ease. He continued to do this after a few slight increases in the speed of his punches before landing yet another hit, though Taigen didn’t remain grounded for long and quickly transformed once again.
Airon: Faster, Taigen! Come on, you’re nearly there!
A few more rounds of punching and dodging passed before Airon motioned for him to begin throwing hits of his own. Taigen made the transition from defense to offense relatively smoothly from that point on, but in the end, he was forced to transform once again.
Airon: Faster!!
The matter of dodging Airon’s attacks outright had all but disappeared by this point in their fight, the issue at hand now being avoiding them while landing a hit of his own. Taigen made contact a few times after that, but each time was either blocked with ease or simply wasn’t strong enough to send Airon to the ground. On one particular instance, he lunged forward with as much strength as he could manage after evading a series of particularly fast punches and kicks, only for Airon to phase out of the way and grab him by the collar as he slipped past him, swinging him around and sending him tumbling across the ground. To Minto’s surprise, though, his transformation held firm with no minor injuries to his body, and he quickly stood back up and charged Airon, hatred burning in his eyes as he gritted his still caninesque teeth.
Airon: FASTER, TAIGEN, COME ON!!! IF YOU CAN’T KNOCK ME DOWN, YOU’RE BETTER OFF JUST LIVING LIFE AS A HOUSEPET!!!
Taigen: AAARRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!
As he came within reach, Airon threw out punches at the highest speed he could possibly manage at that stage of his development, but Taigen used his canine reflexes and sharp senses to avoid every one of them with ease, doing the same every time he threw one in between his own attempts to hit him. The struggle seemed to last an eternity despite being only a few seconds, ending with Taigen collapsing from exhaustion, though not before landing a sharp blow to Airon’s shoulder and then tripping him up with a front sweep that send him tumbling to the ground. Exhausted, Airon rubbed the back of his head where he hit the ground as he sat up, using that same hand to rub Taigen’s chest.
Airon: Huhh…huhh…there…you made it…huhh, now let’s see to it no one ever lays a hand on you again.
Taigen smiled through his heavy breaths, glad to know all his training would soon be coming to fruition. Meanwhile, Minto found more relief from the fight’s conclusion than satisfaction, as it’d been raining hard for several minutes by that point.
Minto: Can we go back inside now, please!?
Neither one of them having noticed the rain during their fight’s final stretch, Airon and Taigen looked up at the dark sky for a moment before chuckling to themselves and standing back up.
Airon: Sounds like a plan.
– One Month Later –
Airon and Minto had pushed Taigen to his physical limits, but the true challenge had only just begun. With Suzaku and Konohamaru ensuring documents of his citizenship in the village were taken care of, the latter being let in on their endeavor out of necessity, all that was left was to enroll him as a student. Once his grandfather had assured this was done, Minto led him to the Academy, resting his hand on his shoulder when the transformed ninken stopped just outside the massive building.
Minto: It’ll be alright, Taigen. …You’re ready.
Still nervous and wishing Airon was there to help him along, as well, Taigen nonetheless noted Minto’s warm smile and returned it along with a nod before the two walked through the large double doors. Waiting just to the right of the doorway was an older chūnin who looked to be in his mid-twenties standing behind a desk, whom Minto spoke to in order to ensure Taigen was on the enrollment sheet.
????: Let’s see…ah, here we go. Taigen…you have another brother, Honorable Grandson?
Minto: (He looked off to the side in minor embarrassment, somewhat annoyed by the title he was given.) Weelll, sort of. He’s lived with us for a few years now. …He’s an orphan.
He leaned forward and lowered his voice as he added that final remark, causing the older man’s eyes to widen slightly, only to return to their normal size momentarily as he turned to Taigen and smiled.
????: I see. Well, welcome to the Academy, Taigen. I look forward to seeing your skills.
Taigen: (He lowered his head as he spoke to him, looking up briefly to give his response.) …Thank you, sir.
Minto smiled at this before leading him down the large hallway, a few sharp turns eventually bringing them to Minto’s classroom, which was helmed by a rather familiar face. Once all the regular students had taken their normal seats, she stepped forward to make an announcement, adjusting her glasses beforehand.
Sarada: Alright, students! We have a new addition to our class today that I’d like you all to meet! …Go ahead and introduce yourself.
She smiled down at Taigen before stepping off to the side in order to bring him in plain view of every student in the class. His face already beet-red, he gulped all the air in his mouth before speaking.
Taigen: Um…my name is Taigen. I’m, uh…real-really looking forward to being a student here.
He bowed as he finished, heaving a sigh of relief when a handful of students returned his introduction, finding not a hint of laughter among them. After that, Sarada motioned him towards where Minto was seated, much to his gratefulness, waiting until he had taken one of the two seats between him and Kei before speaking up again.
Sarada: Let’s be sure to make him feel welcome while he’s here! Now then, let’s start off today with…
As she began her first lesson of the day, Minto nudged Taigen on the shoulder to get his attention, having sensed his discomfort with being around so many people he was unfamiliar with – and who were unfamiliar with him in return.
Minto: Airon and Manako should’ve already told the rest of our group, so don’t worry about everyone else. …We’ll get through this in a year’s time, alright?
Being only his first day, Taigen’s tension had hardly settled down yet, but Minto’s remarks were enough to ensure him that it would in due time, and he smiled back at him in appreciation.
Under the watchful gaze of Minto and everyone else in the Academy who knew of his true nature, Taigen excelled in all areas of his classes, his excessive preparation prior to his enrollment having already pushed him well past the efforts shown by others of his classmates. The knowledge bequeathed to him by both Airon and Suzaku made written exams a breeze, while his heavy physical training with the former made things like taijutsu and basic ninjutsu just as easy. A few months passed where this was enough to leave him with no suspicion from anyone in the Academy by the time one-on-one matches started being held between students, his first true test. Those deemed ready to participate gathered in the schoolyard, resulting in a group of roughly thirty anxious students which included Taigen, Minto, Kei, Kemono, Ide, Kenji, Katsuto, Shikaru, Inoka, Chōzen, Miyuki, and Chan, at the helm of which was yet another familiar face from the previous generation.
Inojin: Okay, then. The rules of these one-on-one matches are very simple. When I call your names, two of you will step up to the lines, form the Seal of Confrontation, then start the brawl. The fight ends when one of you gets pinned to the ground or is unable to keep going, at which point you’ll both stand up and form the Seal of Reconciliation. This is required for all students as it symbolizes that this was merely a temporary conflict and you are both still comrades of the same village. Understood?
He waited until he had counted roughly thirty nods before continuing.
Inojin: Perfect. Alright, the first two I want to see are…Kei and Ide.
Ide: I would really prefer not to fight, Inojin-sensei.
Inojin: (Half-expecting this from her, he rubbed the back of his head and smirked as he heaved a sigh of minor annoyance.) Huhhh, alright then. How about Kei and Kemono?
Kemono: Yeah! That’s what I’m talkin’ about!
Kei: Heh he, bring it on!
Being only a sparring match, Kemono left the small Mukinu on the sidelines with the rest of the groups, where the small ninken quickly found its way over to Taigen, whose leg it began sniffing profusely. Already breaking out in a sweat, the latter desperately motioned over to its partner as a troubled Minto watched from beside him.
Taigen: Uhhh, psst! Kemono?
Kemono: (Turning around right away, he looked down at Mukinu and quickly noted the concern at hand.) Hey, Mukinu. Lay off him, okay, bud?
Taigen: (When Mukinu followed his request without delay, he heaved a sigh of relief and smiled back at him.) Phew…thank you.
Minto: Hmhm, not too popular with dogs, are ya…other dogs, I should say?
Taigen: (Nearly jumping, he looked around to ensure no one heard him before nudging him in the chest.) Shut up, Minto.
The other students in the group all watched as Kei and Kemono’s spar commenced, a handful of them shouting for one to win or the other. Both were relatively well-matched, but after a few minutes, exhaustion began to come over them, Kemono being the first to succumb to it as one missed swing led to him being tackled to the ground.
Kei: Huhh…huhh…whew, I win!! Ha HA, in your face, Inase! Saying I would lose my first one-on-one match!
Inojin: Alright, that’s enough of that, Kei. Now, as I said, both of you form the Seal of Reconciliation.
Returning to his feet, Kemono returned Kei’s grin with a scowl as he reluctantly formed the seal with him.
Kemono: Ya got lucky, punk. See what happens next time.
Kei: Ha, anytime and anyplace.
Inojin: (Waiting until they returned to the sidelines, he scanned the rest of the group for the next two combatants.) Alright, next up is…Taigen and…
Taigen: (Please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto please pick Minto-)
Inojin: …Katsuto.
As his opponent stepped forward with his trademark arrogant smirk plastered on his face, Taigen lowered his head in disappointment, only to raise it again as Minto rested his hand on his back and leaned in closer.
Minto: You’ve been training with Airon for over two years, Taigen…you’ve got nothing to worry about.
A moment of contemplation later, Taigen reaffirmed his resolve and stepped forward to take his position, fixing his eyes on his opponent’s feet.
Inojin: Alright…begin.
Katsuto: You’re mine now, kid!
The moment he rushed forward, Taigen looked back up and stepped back a short ways to evade his first swing, dodging those that followed with ease. Not expecting him to put up that much of a fight, Katsuto’s frustration continued to surface with every failed attempt to land a hit, while on the sidelines, Minto carefully studied his movements.
Minto: (Come on, Taigen. There’s an opening in there somewhere…)
Katsuto: (Jeez, he’s fast! Wish I had my Sharingan already…)
With his punches doing little to serve his chances of victory, Katsuto resorted to a roundhouse kick to knock his opponent down. Taigen dodged this without hesitation, but Katsuto kept his leg in the air just long enough to give him an opening.
Minto: (There!)
Crouching down, Taigen used a sweep kick to send him tumbling to the ground, much to his shock.
Katsuto: (What!?) Rrgh, crap!!
Holding his clenched fist over his face to ensure he didn’t move, Taigen glanced back over at Minto to see his reaction to his victory, finding him smiling and nodding his approval.
Inojin: The winner is…Taig-
Minto: TAIGEN, LOOK OUT!!!
The scream was hardly necessary, as Minto found a mere second later, much to his relief, that Taigen had already caught on to Katsuto’s underhandedness and leapt away in time to avoid his grasp. He quickly stood back up to make a second attempt, but their instructor jumped into the fold before he could do so.
Inojin: That’s enough, Katsuto! The fight is already over…now, form the Seal of Reconciliation.
Taigen stepped up to him without hesitation, though from watching his eyes, one could tell he was clearly still suspicious of Katsuto’s intentions. The thought was indeed on Katsuto’s mind, but in the end, he decided against any further schemery and reluctantly made the seal with him.
Katsuto: You won’t be so lucky next time.
Unfazed by his threat, Taigen returned his gaze with a confident smirk as Minto looked on with a smile, both of their minds now free of any doubts in the former’s chances of getting through the Academy.
Taigen: …I beg to differ.
– One Year Later –
As Minto had promised and Taigen had come to expect, the latter was able to graduate from the Academy not only without being discovered, but with a reputation as one of the most promising new genin in his class. With the remainder of their peers having becoming shinobi at long last, each of them began squaring off into teams, Kei going off to join Airon and Inase in Team Naruto, Kemono to join Raiden and Kūrogane in Team Katame, Ide and Kenji to join Irezumi, Miyuki and Chan to join Hitomi, and Minto and Taigen to join Nakama as part of the newly formed Team Suzaku. Their first official meeting came only a week later at the Third Training Ground, where Suzaku took a moment to stand with his arms crossed and admire the three young shinobi standing in front of him. Minto and Nakama were displaying their new headbands around their waists, just as Airon did with his own, while Taigen had wrapped his tightly around his forehead, as if eager to show the entire world that he was, in fact, a ninja.
Suzaku: Congratulations to all three of you. As of now, you’re all officially genin. …I couldn’t be more proud of you.
Nakama and Minto accepted his praise in stride as they looked to their left, where stood Taigen with as proud an expression as the three of them had seen from him in the longest time. Suzaku returned it in kind, though it was quickly replaced by a look of determination.
Suzaku: Your training isn’t nearly over yet, Taigen. You thought Airon was gonna run you into the ground…well, I was taught by his grandfather. Trust me, once I’m done with you, even he and Manako won’t be able to lay a hand on you.
Less than a year before, Taigen might have cowered in fear at such a bold declaration, but now, he felt as though he no longer had anything to fear. He had gone through hell over the past three years, pushing his body and mind past their limits to the point where he had become nigh untouchable, and the thought of pushing himself even further was now a joy rather than a hindrance. His new teammates noticed this new state of mind, as well, and they smiled in satisfaction as he answered their sensei’s assertion.
Taigen: Let’s do it.
– Present-Day –
In the coliseum, cries of hatred and disapproval continued to rain upon Taigen from the nearby stands, forcing him to curl his body up further with each one that hit his ears. Airon continued to hold back Ryūza’s fury as Minto and Nakama tended to their friend and teammate, the former eventually finding his suffering too much to handle.
Minto: Get him out of here…please.
He looked up at Airon as the latter turned around, looking down at Taigen for a moment before nodding in agreement, putting away his sword and kneeling down beside him.
Airon: Come on, Taigen. Let’s go.
Taigen merely buried his head into his chest, unable to bring himself to even look up at him. His guilt still strong, Airon gently set his hand on his head and brushed it back with his thumb as a saddened expression found its way onto his face.
Airon: I’m not mad at you, buddy. No one is, alright? …We’ll sort this out later, I promise. Let’s just get you home for now.
Again, Taigen gave no response other than to adjust his legs slightly, which Airon took as a sign of agreement before suddenly vanishing from the balcony along with him. Noticing this from above, Baiko looked up at the Kages’ balcony for answers on how to proceed, a signal from Konohamaru prompting him to address the still riled audience.
Baiko: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Kage are requesting a brief recess to evaluate the current situation!
As he disappeared in a gust of wind and reemerged on the balcony overhead, most of the audience’s complaints ceased, though a fair amount of noise could still be heard from the stands. Seeing all the commotion this incident had produced, Suzaku rested his chin on his hands, looking down at the floor in guilt as his wife slid her arm over his back and rested her head on his shoulder.
Suzaku: Everything was perfectly fine…defeating Ryūza could’ve easily gotten him the promotion on its own, but…then this had to happen.
Ayumi: He’ll be alright, hon…your father will find a way to help him out of this…I’m sure of it.
He nodded to acknowledgement her words, though he couldn’t say for sure he really believed in them. Meanwhile, above the stands, with Konohamaru remaining silent about his involvement in Taigen’s affairs, the other Kages’ target for criticism became Naruto, who leaned his back against the railing with his arms crossed as he listened to them.
Darui: You knew of this scheme the entire time!? Naruto, I’m sorry, but what the hell was going through your head!?
Kurotsuchi: This could considered a serious offense by other nations and you simply allowed it to happen! Imagine what message that sends about both you and the dealings of your village!
Naruto: (His grip on his forearm tightened with each remark sent his way, not even bringing himself to look up at them as he stared off towards the competitors’ balcony with a frown.) My grandson thought his friend deserved to be treated as more than a ninken and tried to help him overcome that restriction. I didn’t see any harm in letting it play out and still don’t.
Gaara: This isn’t about harming others, Naruto. This is about the reputation of the entire shinobi system.
Chōjūrō: A ninken managed to slip into the Academy’s ranks and even graduate without being exposed, so what’s to stop a rogue ninja to doing the same? There are several potential consequences that can come from this spectacle today, Naruto Uzumaki.
Konohamaru: (His status as Hokage preventing him from defending Naruto, he merely listened to his colleagues as he leaned back in his chair, eventually sitting up once he’d heard enough.) That’s enough, everyone…I’ll see to this matter myself once the exams are over. I promise you all that.
The sorrow in his expression was quite visible to the rest of them, but nonetheless, the others gave in to his wishes and all negativity subsequently resolved itself. Seeing their debate had ended, Baiko spoke up once more.
Baiko: I need an answer now, Lord Hokage.
Konohamaru: (He stared up at him for a moment before looking back down and waving him off.) …Just let him through. Be sure to make note of Ryūza, as well.
Darui: (As Baiko nodded and vanished again, he rubbed his eyes and rested his cheek against his knuckles.) Truly embarrassing…I can only imagine how many other people in this village knew about this.
His words continued to echo through Naruto and Konohamaru’s thoughts as they looked back down at the arena, where Baiko reappeared moments later. Soon afterwards, Airon also reappeared on the competitors’ balcony, quickly greeted by a concerned Minto and Nakama.
Minto: How is he?
Nakama: Is he still hurt?
Airon: (He leaned back over the railing, not even looking at them as he replied.) He just ran into a closet and curled up the moment we teleported into his room. I’ve still got a clone talking with him right now. …I hope these last few matches go by quickly.
Taigen’s teammates looked at each other in worry upon hearing this, but with the tournament still well underway, neither could do anything about it and they both stared down at the arena as Baiko readdressed the audience.
Baiko: The Kage have reached a verdict! Hitomi Hyūga will advance to the semi-finals with no contest, and special consideration will be given towards Ryūza for his part as a victim of this mix-up!
The audience seemed pleased with this outcome overall, but most were still angered that this incident came about in the first place, including Ryūza, who was still staring at Airon as if looking for reparations.
Ryūza: I expect you to answer for this.
Airon: (He stared back at him with hatred burning in his eyes.) I already am…or were you talking about for YOUR “suffering”?
Put off his gaze, Ryūza uttered not another word and vanished in a small cloud of sand, afterwhich Minto immediately walked up to Airon to answer for the entire episode.
Minto: His overconfidence was my fault…I shouldn’t have given him so much praise when what he really needed was caution.
Airon: (He shook his head as he continued to stare down at the arena.) He just made a mistake, Minto. It was the brackets that set things up this way, that’s all there is to it. …Besides, I was his original trainer…I’m the one who made him think he’d grown invincible.
Nakama: (She walked up to his other side with sadness still in her eyes, fixing to set her hand atop his own before drawing it away at the last moment.) There’s no point blaming either of you for this, Airon. …Taigen’s not at home sobbing right now because of something you did. You shouldn’t think that way, either.
Airon looked at her for a moment as though prepared to reply, but before he could do so, they were interrupted by a new arrival through the corridor entrance – the match’s undecided victor, who looked around for a moment before gazing up at Airon.
Hitomi: He’s already gone?
Airon answered with a simple nod, prompting him to lower his head in regret.
Hitomi: I am truly sorry for all of this…my arrogance just got the better of me.
Airon: (He traded glances with Nakama, both of them exchanging their first smiles in over thirty minutes before he replied.) What’s done is done, Hitomi…hmhm, I think you’ve got bigger issues to worry about now, anyways.
Hitomi: (He looked at Nakama after hearing this, put off by her somewhat devious expression.) …Tell me about it. (She’s not the kind to try and avenge her teammates, is she?)
Airon: (Oh, trust me, you’re in for a world of hurt now.)
Hitomi turned away with an awkward smile on his face as the stadium finally died down, the tournament finally underway once again.
Baiko: The next match will now commence…Irezumi Yamanaka and Manako Uchiha, make your way to the arena!
Taigen is forced to pull out – does Irezumi have what it takes to go head-to-head with Manako!!?
The End
