Ninja School Training Ground
Under the serene glow of the full moon, two shadows danced across the training field, their movements swift and precise. The clang of kunai echoed through the air as Kaiton and Orochimaru engaged in a fierce duel. Orochimaru, faced with Kaiton's relentless offense, began to falter.
Kaiton smirked inwardly, His strength is impressive, but I've improved. He can't outmatch me this time.
Realizing the futility of direct confrontation, Orochimaru opted for agility, weaving through Kaiton's strikes with nimble precision. Kaiton, however, was prepared. He had studied Orochimaru's battle with Shinzuru earlier that day and understood his opponent's strategy.
Trying the same trick on me? Too naive.
Kaiton swiftly altered his tactics, withdrawing to create distance. Reaching into his ninja pouch, he hurled a barrage of shuriken toward Orochimaru. Though his accuracy wasn't on par with someone like Uchiha Retsu or Hinatabi, his throws were well-placed enough to demand attention.
Ten shuriken whizzed through the air, their sharp edges gleaming in the moonlight. Orochimaru, unfazed, flicked his wrists, sending his own shuriken to intercept Kaiton's. The resulting clash produced a series of metallic pings as Kaiton's weapons were deflected to the ground.
Kaiton grimaced, I forgot. Orochimaru's shuriken skills rival those of the Uchiha and Hyuga clans.
Just as Orochimaru prepared to counter, Kaiton's fingers twitched subtly. Two of the shuriken, attached to chakra strings, veered back toward Orochimaru. His eyes widened, but his substitution technique activated just in time, leaving a wooden log in his place.
Kaiton narrowed his eyes. A substitution, huh? Let's test that.
Feigning disinterest, Kaiton directed the two shuriken toward the log. The weapons embedded themselves harmlessly, confirming Orochimaru's escape. However, Kaiton's momentary distraction was all Orochimaru needed.
A cold blade pressed lightly against Kaiton's neck, and Orochimaru's voice whispered triumphantly, "Kaiton, it seems I've won this battle."
Kaiton smirked, unfazed. "Is that so?"
Orochimaru's victory smile faltered as a kunai materialized at his own neck. The Kaiton before him vanished into smoke, revealing a shadow clone. The real Kaiton emerged from behind, his weapon steady and his grin confident.
"Well played, Snake," Kaiton teased, lowering his kunai.
Orochimaru's eyes narrowed, "Snake?"
"Yeah, it suits you. Slippery, cunning, and always striking at the right moment."
"Please," Orochimaru replied dryly, "never call me that again."
---
Walking Home
As the two walked back, Kaiton couldn't help but reflect on their fight. Orochimaru had surprised him multiple times with his quick thinking and adaptability.
No wonder he defeated Shinzuru. His reaction speed and battle intelligence are remarkable. Kaiton thought.
In Orochimaru, Kaiton saw a glimpse of the legendary Second Hokage, Tenzou. The resemblance wasn't just in their skill but also their calculated approach to combat.
Orochimaru broke the silence, "I'll admit, Kaiton, you've improved significantly. But don't think I'll stay behind for long."
Kaiton chuckled, "Looking forward to the challenge."
They made a pact: neither would graduate early unless Orochimaru could defeat Kaiton. This brought Kaiton some relief, as he viewed early missions as unnecessary risks for children their age.
What's the rush to leave the village? Gaining knowledge and perfecting techniques is far more important.
---
At Home
After a long bath, Kaiton visited Akirai and Hinatabi to request new techniques. Returning to his room, he unrolled the scroll containing the two jutsu they had recommended.
The first was Earth Style: Rising Spikes, a technique that raised a spiked wall from the ground to attack or block enemies. The second was Fire Style: Dust Concealment, which created a large dust cloud mixed with flames to obscure the user's movements.
Perfect. These will greatly enhance my arsenal. Kaiton thought, eagerly memorizing the hand signs and mechanics. He planned to begin practicing the next day.
---
The Next Day
As Kaiton prepared to head to school, a masked figure in black ANBU attire appeared at his door. The figure's presence exuded authority and mystery.
"Kaiton, your presence is requested," the masked ninja said, their tone leaving no room for refusal.
Kaiton blinked in surprise but quickly nodded. Looks like today won't be as routine as I thought.
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