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Chapter 15 - SHINOBI AGAINST SHINOBI

Hinata's eyes locked onto Shizune, her gaze piercing through the genjutsu-induced haze. Her Byakugan activated, granting her a deeper understanding of the chakra currents surrounding Shizune. The gentle hum of her dojutsu revealed the intricate web of control woven by Uchiha's jutsu.

With a deep breath, Hinata centered herself, focusing her chakra. Her slender fingers curled into tight fists, and she assumed a fluid stance, poised for attack.

"Shizune san, I'm sorry," Hinata whispered, her voice barely audible over the tension.

In a burst of speed, Hinata closed the distance between them. Her feet seemed to glide across the floor, her movements eerily silent. Shizune, still entrapped in the genjutsu, didn't flinch.

Hinata's hands danced through the air, weaving an intricate pattern of gentle fist strikes. Each blow landed with precision, targeting specific pressure points to disrupt Uchiha's control. Her fingers grazed Shizune's skin, channeling concentrated chakra into the strikes.

The first strike landed on Shizune's shoulder, followed by a swift tap on her wrist. Hinata's hands moved in harmony, unleashing a fluid combination of strikes that flowed like a gentle stream.

Shizune's eyes, once vacant, began to flicker. Her pupils constricted, and her gaze wavered, struggling to break free from the genjutsu.

Hinata sensed the subtle shift in Shizune's chakra, indicating the genjutsu's hold was weakening. With one final, precise strike, Hinata targeted the critical pressure point that would shatter the illusion.

The air seemed to vibrate with the release of pent-up energy as the genjutsu shattered. Shizune's eyes snapped back into focus, her expression contorting in confusion.

For an instant, Shizune's gaze met Hinata's, and a glimmer of recognition sparked.

Then, her eyelids drooped, and she collapsed, unconscious.

Hinata caught Shizune, gently cradling her limp form. A mixture of relief and concern etched her face.

"Shizune san, it's over," Hinata whispered, her voice soothing.

With Shizune safely in her arms, Hinata surveyed their surroundings, vigilant for potential threats.

Hinata stood within the familiar walls of her home, the Uzumaki residence. Her gaze fell upon Shizune's unconscious form, still cradled in her arms. The gentle rise and fall of Shizune's chest reassured Hinata, but her concern lingered.

Who could have ensnared Shizune in such a potent genjutsu? Hinata recognized the Uchiha-style technique, and her mind instinctively turned to Sasuke and Sarada, the only two Uchiha clan members she knew of with the Sharingan. But a nagging doubt lingered – could there be another Uchiha, hidden and unknown?

As Hinata pondered, the sounds of chaos and destruction outside grew louder. Flames crackled, and panicked shouts filled the air. Her priorities crystallized:

First, she needed to inform the village's leadership about the Sharingan's presence. The genjutsu's potency hinted at a skilled user, potentially hiding in plain sight. Warning others would help prevent further casualties.

Second, she had to find her children, Boruto and Himawari. Fear gnawed at her heart, imagining them caught in the crossfire or, worse, targeted by the mysterious Uchiha.

Leaving Shizune alone and vulnerable wasn't an option, not when danger lurked around every corner. Hinata gently lifted Shizune into her arms, deciding to take her along. The risks of leaving her behind outweighed the challenges of carrying her.

With Shizune secure in her arms, Hinata stepped outside into the turmoil. Her Byakugan scanned the surroundings, searching for potential threats and her children's whereabouts.

The usually tranquil village streets were now a battleground. Evacuation efforts were underway, with shinobi guiding villagers to safety. Hinata spotted a group coordinating the efforts near the town square.

As she approached, her voice carried above the din. "Sharingan user spotted! Possible Uchiha involvement!"

The shinobi turned, concern etched on their faces. One stepped forward, his expression grave. "Hinata-sama, do you know who's responsible?"

"I doubt it's Sasuke kun or Sarada," Hinata replied, her voice measured. "I think there's another Uchiha involved. We must be vigilant."

The shinobi nodded gravely. "We'll spread the word. Someone should inform Rokudaime-sama or Nanadaime-sama."

"I agree," Hinata said. "Please send word to them immediately. I'll continue searching for my children."

A younger shinobi stepped forward, his eyes sympathetic. "Hinata-sama, please, you should evacuate with Shizune-sama. It's not safe here."

Hinata's determination hardened. "I won't leave until I find Boruto and Himawari. Ensure the message reaches Kakashi sensei or Naruto kun."

With a nod, the shinobi dispatched a messenger, while Hinata continued her search. Her Byakugan guided her through the winding streets, scanning for any sign of her children.

As she navigated the chaos, Hinata's thoughts remained fixed on her family's safety and the mysterious Uchiha's identity.

With each step, her anxiety grew. Where were Boruto and Himawari? Were they safe?

Boruto's feet pounded the village's streets, his eyes scanning the chaos for a glimpse of Kakashi's distinctive figure. Shikamaru's urgent message weighed heavily on his mind.

"Find old man Kakashi, tell him about the turtle... Ensure its safety, ensure the village's safety..." Boruto repeated the words like a mantra, his determination growing with each step.

The village's usual tranquility had given way to panic. Flames engulfed buildings, casting flickering shadows on the streets. The air reeked of smoke and ozone. Panicked shouts and screams filled the air.

Boruto dodged fleeing villagers, his gaze locking onto shinobi coordinating evacuation efforts. He spotted a group guiding civilians toward the village's emergency shelters.

"Boruto kun, go to the shelter!" one shinobi shouted, gesturing toward the crowd.

But Boruto shook his head, his focus solely on finding Kakashi. "I need to find Old Man Kakashi! Has anyone seen him?"

A harried shinobi paused, sweat dripping down his face. "Last I saw, he was near the Hot Spring, but that was before... everything went to hell."

Boruto nodded, already racing toward the Hot Spring. His thoughts swirled with worst-case scenarios.

What if the turtle was already compromised? What if Kakashi was injured or...?

No, Boruto pushed the thoughts aside. He had to find Kakashi.

As he ran, the village's destruction unfolded before him. Buildings lay in ruins, their once-sturdy walls now reduced to rubble. The streets, once filled with laughter and life, were now a battleground.

Boruto's eyes stung from the smoke, but his determination never wavered. He would find Kakashi, no matter what.

Boruto's feet pounded the rooftops, his eyes scanning the village below for any sign of Kakashi. The night air was thick with smoke and ash, casting a dark veil over the once-peaceful streets. The sounds of chaos echoed through the village – screams, clashing steel, and the roar of flames.

Boruto's heart pounded in his chest, his thoughts fixed on delivering Shikamaru's message. He had to find Kakashi, no matter what. The weight of responsibility settled heavy on his shoulders.

As he ran, the wind whipped through his hair, and his eyes stung from the smoke. But he pressed on, driven by a sense of duty.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows ahead. Boruto's instincts kicked in, and he halted, his hands clenched into fists.

The figure stepped forward, revealing Sarutobi Konohamaru, his sensei and mentor. Konohamaru's eyes narrowed, concern etched on his face. His brow furrowed, and his lips pressed into a thin line.

"Boruto, where are you headed?" Konohamaru asked, his voice firm but laced with worry.

"I need to find old man Kakashi," Boruto replied, his determination evident.

Konohamaru's expression turned grave. His eyes clouded, and his jaw clenched. "You can't go there, Boruto. Senju Park is a war zone. It's not safe."

Boruto's jaw set in defiance. "I have to deliver a message from Shikamaru san,It's crucial."

Konohamaru stepped forward, his hands on Boruto's shoulders. "Listen, Boruto. I understand your determination, but this is too dangerous. You're not ready for this."

Boruto tried to shake off Konohamaru's grip, but his sensei held firm. "I have to go, Nii-chan. Please understand."

Konohamaru's grip tightened. "I won't let you go, Boruto. You're putting yourself in harm's way."

Boruto's eyes flashed with determination. "I'll be fine, Nii-chan. I promise."

Konohamaru's expression softened, but his grip remained firm. "I know you're capable, Boruto. But this is different."

Boruto's voice took on a pleading tone. "Nii-chan, please. I have to do this."

Konohamaru's eyes searched Boruto's, looking for any sign of wavering. But Boruto's resolve remained unwavering.

With a heavy sigh, Konohamaru released Boruto's shoulders. "Fine... but be careful. Rokudaime-sama is at Senju Park, but... it's chaos."

Boruto nodded, relief washing over him.

"Come back alive, Boruto," Konohamaru said, his voice low and serious.

Boruto smiled faintly. "I will, Nii-chan."

As Boruto turned to leave, Konohamaru called out.

"Boruto."

Boruto turned back. "Be careful who you trust," Konohamaru said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Boruto nodded and then he spoke, "I forgot to tell you something, Nii-chan," Boruto said, his voice hesitant.

Konohamaru's eyes narrowed. "What?!"

Boruto's expression turned serious. "I saw some villagers attacking each other near the east gate."

Konohamaru's face darkened, his eyes flashing with alarm. "Where exactly?"

"Head east from here. You'll see the gate. Be careful," Boruto replied.

Konohamaru's jaw clenched. "Thank you, Boruto. I'll handle this."

Boruto nodded.

Konohamaru's eyes locked onto Boruto's. "Stay safe, Boruto. Fulfill your mission."

Boruto nodded, determination etched on his face.

With that, they parted ways – Konohamaru rushing toward the east gate, while Boruto headed toward Senju Park.

Boruto's feet pounded the ground, his senses on high alert as he navigated through the village. The darkness seemed to swirl around him, shadows cast by the flickering torches.

Senju Park loomed ahead, its tranquil grounds now a battleground. Boruto's heart quickened, his thoughts racing with possibilities.

What kind of battlefield was happening at The Senju Park? Was Kakashi safe?

As he approached the park, the sounds of clashing steel and shouts grew louder. Boruto's grip on his pouch tightened, his mind focused on the mission.

He turned a corner, and the park's entrance came into view. The once-peaceful gates now stood battered and broken, a testament to the chaos within.

Boruto steeled himself and stepped through the gates, his eyes scanning the battle-scarred landscape. The park's serene gardens were now a maze of destruction, trees uprooted and lanterns shattered.

He weaved through the rubble, his senses heightened as he navigated the treacherous terrain. The air reeked of smoke and sweat, the stench of battle hanging heavy.

Suddenly, a burst of jutsu illuminated the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the park. Boruto's heart skipped a beat as he quickened his pace.

Boruto's eyes scanned the chaotic landscape of Senju Park, his heart racing with anticipation. He had finally found Kakashi, but he was locked in a fierce battle with a mysterious opponent.

As Boruto approached, his gaze fell upon the enemy's face, and his blood ran cold. It was the same man who had attacked his home, almost killed his little sister,Himawari and wounded Shikamaru.

Fear gripped Boruto's heart, his feet freezing in place. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and his breath caught in his throat. He thought he would be killed this time, and his mind went blank.

The battlefield was not as easy as he had thought. The clash of steel, the screams of the wounded, and the stench of blood overwhelmed him. Boruto's confidence wavered, replaced by crippling fear.

Just as he stood there, paralyzed, a scream pierced the air. "No... stop!"

Boruto's gaze shifted to the source of the cry. A shinobi was breaking another shinobi's arm, the victim's screams echoing through the night. Boruto's eyes widened in horror.

What was happening? Why were the shinobi of his village killing each other?

Boruto's fear gave way to confusion and outrage. He rushed forward, his voice shaking. "Hey,Stop!"

The shinobi turned to face him, a kunai glinting in the moonlight. Boruto's heart skipped a beat as the shinobi charged toward him.

Before he could react, the shinobi grabbed his arm and slammed him to the ground. Boruto cried out in pain, his shoulder throbbing.

He lay there, dazed and terrified. Why was this happening? He thought he was fighting for his village, but now it seemed like everyone was against each other.

Konohamaru's words echoed in his mind:

"Listen, Boruto. I understand your determination, but this is too dangerous. You're not ready for this." But Boruto hadn't listened, and now he regretted his decision.

Boruto struggled to catch his breath, pain radiating from his shoulder. The shinobi's grip had been merciless, and he could feel the bruise spreading.

As he lay there, Boruto's mind reeled with fear and confusion. What was happening in the village? Why were shinobi turning against each other?

He thought of his family, his friends, and his sensei. Were they safe? The uncertainty gnawed at his heart.

Boruto's eyes scanned the chaos around him, searching for an escape or an ally. But every face seemed hostile, every glance a potential threat.

The shinobi who had attacked him stood over him, kunai still poised for the kill. Boruto's heart pounded, his thoughts racing with desperation.

Why had he come here? He should have listened to Konohamaru.

The shinobi raised his kunai, and Boruto closed his eyes, bracing for impact.

But the blow never came.

A faint rustling sound echoed through the air, followed by a soft thud. Boruto opened his eyes to find the shinobi lying unconscious beside him.

A figure stood over them, panting heavily. Boruto's gaze locked onto the familiar face, and relief washed over him.

"Old man Kakashi!" Boruto exclaimed, his voice shaking.

Kakashi's eyes locked onto Boruto's, his expression stern. "Boruto, get out of here. It's not safe."

But Boruto hesitated, his grip on the message from Shikamaru tightening. "No, old man Kakashi! I have a message for you from Shikamaru-san."

As he spoke, a searing pain shot through his shoulder, and Boruto cried out, his knees buckling.

Kakashi swiftly caught him, guiding him to sit on the ground. Boruto's vision blurred for a moment, but as his focus returned, he scanned the area, searching for the Rinnegan-wielding man.

To his surprise, the Rinnegan man was nowhere to be seen.

Boruto's gaze shifted to Kakashi, his eyes narrowing. "Where is that guy who was fighting you?"

Kakashi's gaze drifted to the side, his eyes clouding with a mixture of concern and dismay. He stared at the chaos unfolding among the villagers.

"It was a wood clone," Kakashi said, his voice low and gravelly.

Boruto's eyes widened in shock. Wood clone? He had never heard of such a thing.

The concept seemed impossible. A clone made of wood? How could it fight like a real person?

As Boruto struggled to comprehend, his gaze fell upon the villagers. Some were fighting each other, while others lay injured, crying out for help.

The once-peaceful Senju Park was now a battleground, the air thick with tension and fear.

Boruto's thoughts reeled with questions. What was happening in the village? Who was behind these attacks?

He looked up at Kakashi, seeking answers, but his Kakashi's expression remained grim, his eyes fixed on the chaos.

The sound of clashing steel and screams filled the air, a haunting reminder of the danger that lurked in every corner.

Boruto's heart pounded, his mind racing with the implications. Wood clones? What other secrets lay hidden in the shadows?

Kakashi's gaze shifted to Boruto, his eyes narrowing. "What is the message?" he asked, his voice firm but laced with urgency.

Boruto took a deep breath, recalling Shikamaru's words. "Shikamaru-san said to tell you that the person who's causing all this is after the turtle... and the village's safety is in the hands of the turtle's safety."

Kakashi's expression turned introspective, his eyes clouding with thought. He stood silent for a moment, processing the information.

Then, he turned to Boruto, his voice measured. "Repeat that."

Boruto's brow furrowed, but he complied. "Shikamaru-san said to tell you that the person who's causing all this is after the turtle... and the village's safety is in the hands of the turtle's safety."

As Boruto finished speaking, horror dawned on Kakashi's face. His eyes widened, and his jaw clenched. He couldn't understand why the enemy would target the turtle.

The silence that followed was oppressive, heavy with unspoken concerns.

Finally, Kakashi broke the silence, his voice low and serious. "Thanks a lot for telling me this, Boruto. Now, you shall leave. It's not safe here."

Boruto nodded, relief washing over him.

As he prepared to depart, a nagging worry surfaced. "Old man Kakashi, do you know where my dad is?" Boruto asked, his voice tinged with concern.

Kakashi helped Boruto to his feet, his expression sympathetic. "I'm sorry to say, but I haven't seen Naruto or Sasuke today. But I'm sure they're doing something important. I believe it."

Boruto nodded, finding solace in Kakashi's words.

With newfound determination, Boruto looked up at Kakashi. "Old man Kakashi, I'm counting on you. Our lives rely on you."

Kakashi's eyes widened, surprised by Boruto's words.

But in the next instant, a warm smile spread across his face. He gave Boruto a thumbs-up. "Leave it to me."

Boruto's face lit up with a faint smile, trust and faith shining in his eyes.

With a final nod, Boruto turned and ran away from the chaotic battlefield, leaving Kakashi to ponder the mysterious threat.

As Boruto vanished into the night, Kakashi's expression turned grave. The weight of responsibility settled upon him, and he steeled himself for the challenges ahead.

Kakashi's eyes remained fixed on the spot where Boruto disappeared, his mind racing with questions.

Why were the villagers fighting amongst themselves? Why was the enemy after the turtle? Where were Naruto and Sasuke?

How could he prevent the catastrophe that loomed over the village?

The thoughts swirled in his mind like a vortex, fueling his determination.

Just as he began to formulate a plan, Kakashi's gaze lifted to the sky.

His eyes narrowed.

The Rinnegan-wielding man stood suspended in mid-air, gazing down at the village with an unnerving intensity.

Kakashi's jaw clenched, anger igniting within him. "Now what's he up to?" Kakashi growled, his voice barely above a whisper.

Kakashi's gaze swept across the chaotic landscape, his eyes locking onto a group of shinobi fleeing in unison. Their panicked footsteps echoed through the night air, and Kakashi's brow furrowed in concern.

"What's happening?" Kakashi muttered to himself, his mind racing with possibilities.

He took a step forward, his voice rising above the din. "Hey! Where are you going? Wait!"

But the shinobi didn't seem to hear him, their faces set in determined lines as they vanished into the darkness.

Kakashi's thoughts swirled with confusion. What could be driving them to flee so recklessly?

He scanned the surrounding area, searching for any signs of danger. The Rinnegan-wielding man still hovered above, his presence casting a menacing shadow over the village.

Kakashi's instincts screamed warning. Something was terribly wrong.

The air seemed to vibrate with tension, heavy with the promise of impending doom.

Kakashi's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with strategies. He needed to understand what was happening and how to protect his village.

But before he could act, his gaze shifted to the other side of Senju Park, where a new crisis was unfolding.

On the other side of Senju Park, a sense of unease settled over the gathered shinobi. The moon cast eerie shadows on the grass, and the trees seemed to whisper warnings.

Suddenly, a ripple of panic spread through the crowd. A few shinobi turned and sprinted away, joining the throng of fleeing comrades in the distance.

Hanabi's voice pierced the chaos, her concern etched on her face. "Stop! Where are you guys running?"

But the fleeing shinobi didn't falter, their footsteps pounding the earth as they vanished into the darkness.

Sai's eyes narrowed, his gaze sweeping the remaining shinobi. Few stayed, their faces etched with confusion.

"What's happening?" one of them whispered.

Sai's expression turned grim. "Something's not right."

He raised his voice, shouting above the din. "Stop! Don't run!"

But his words fell on deaf ears.

Choji, standing beside Sai, grasped the arm of a fleeing shinobi, Himekawa. "Himekawa, stay with us! Where are you running to?"

Himekawa's eyes were wild, unfocused. He jerked free, his hand flashing to his belt.

A kunai glinted in the moonlight, and Choji's eyes widened in alarm.

"No, Himekawa!"

But it was too late. The kunai sliced through Choji's hand, and he cried out in pain.

Choji's grip faltered, and Himekawa broke free, joining the fleeing crowd.

Sai's face twisted in shock.

The remaining shinobi exchanged uneasy glances.

"What's wrong with him?" one asked, voice trembling.

"Has he gone mad?" another whispered.

"How dare he hurt his own villager!" a third spat, outrage etched on his face.

A murmur of discontent spread through the group.

Choji clenched his wounded hand, wincing. "What's happening to them?"

Sai's eyes locked onto the fleeing shinobi, his mind racing with answers.

Sai's gaze drifted upward, his eyes locking onto the sky. A chill cascaded down his spine, freezing his very being. He stood motionless, silenced by the horror unfolding above.

Choji beside Sai noticed Sai's sudden paralysis. "Sai... hey, Sai... what happened?" he asked, concern etched on his face.

Choji followed Sai's gaze, tracing the trajectory of his frozen stare. And then, he saw it. His voice trembled, barely above a whisper.

"Hey, guys... he's floating!!"

The words hung in the air, a haunting echo. The moon seemed to dim, casting an ominous shadow over the village. The stars twinkled with a malevolent intensity. Darkness descended.

The world around Sai seemed to fade, leaving only an abyss of terror. The Rinnegan-wielding man's floating presencein the sky loomed, a specter of doom.

---

Quiz Question:

What motivates the mysterious Rinnegan-wielding man to target the turtle?

A) To harness its power for personal gain

B) To protect the village from an unknown threat

C) To fulfill an ancient prophecy

D) To destroy the village's symbol of peace

Share your answer in the comments below!

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