456 Chapter 56

Title: Timeskip

....

In the serene chambers of Hanagakure, the ten captains, each a master of their respective squad, gathered around a polished wooden table. At the head of the table sat the Hanakage, looking all tired and unkempt for someone of his status.

Yet, no one dared look at him slightfully.

He was the undisputed strongest of their generation, or rather his generation and his wisdom spoke volumes of his capability in leading the village.

As the fragrance of blossoms filled the air, the captain of the assassination squad, Kurotsume, bowed respectfully before the Hanakage. "Hanakage-sama, I would like to tender my resignation as the captain of the assassination squad."

The man demanded in a polite tone. They were already done with the agenda of the day, which was their monthly meeting and report.

Taking the opportunity as it presented itself, he made his request for retirement.

A hushed tension fell over the room as the other captains exchanged curious glances. The Hanakage's expression remained composed, encouraging Kurotsume to continue.

"I believe it's time for fresh blood to lead our squad. After careful consideration, I propose Shun as my successor. His skills and dedication are unmatched," Kurotsume declared, his eyes unwavering.

"That Hayaken's Kid?"

"That brat... I see."

The captains who had had run-ins with Shun in the village and outside, all showed various expressions to show their familiarity with Shun.

Unfortunately, no matter how much they would like to discredit him, for the sake of the village they could only keep mute, after all, they all knew his strength, and that was what mattered.

The Hanakage nodded in acknowledgment, "Your service to Hanagakure has been exemplary, Kurotsume. We accept your resignation and appoint Shun as the new captain of the assassination squad. May he uphold the honor and strength of our village."

As soon as he said that, he looked around in confusion before asking. "Where's the ki- I mean, Shun? He's your Vice right?"

As Vice-captains, Shun and the others and the clearance of entering the room during meetings especially when their captain would present something that would affect their squad.

Kurotsume looked a bit embarrassed, but as a seasoned assassin, he quickly readjusted his emotions and said. "It doesn't matter whether he's here. I'll be tending my resignation first as well as his appointment. I believe Shun wouldn't have a reason to escape when he's directly Summoned by the Black Numbers."

As soon as he said that, everyone felt like they understood the difficulties he had been put through in the past that prompted him to sell out his vice, yet instead of reproach, they all looked sympathetic.

After all, he had put up with Shun for close to a decade. If that wasn't impressive, even they didn't know what was.

"I'll see that he's Summoned then." Hanakage said as he waved his hand. A Black Token with the kanji for つ appeared before giving it to Kurotsume who nodded and disappeared, only to appear with an angry Shun.

"What's the meaning of this? Abduction in pure daylight? Even if you're my captain, I'll have you sued for this! Where's my right as a human!?" Complained the angry Shun.

"Ahem..." a soft cough broke through Shun's incessant ramblings causing him to stop and look around the room...or so they believed since his eyes were obviously blindfolded.

"A~reh? Why are you guys in my house?"

...

A Few Minutes Earlier.

Under a serene cherry blossom tree of Hanagakure, a blindfolded white haired man sat, looking sagely as he addressed two kids sitting in front of him.

Shun, with a calm demeanor, began to explain, "Sai, art is a profound expression of human creativity. It's a way for individuals to convey emotions, thoughts, and stories using various mediums. Take this painting, for instance."

He gestured towards his artwork, a canvas adorned with a captivating display of colors and forms. "A painting, like this one, is a form of visual art. The artist uses brushstrokes, colors, and composition to communicate something beyond words. It's a silent dialogue between the creator and the observer."

One of the students who looked annoyed for some reason muttered. "Why do I have to sit in for this lecture too?" However, being who he is, Shun ignored her question and continued only to be interrupted by a question.

Sai gazed intently at the painting, absorbing Shun's words. "But why is it considered art?" He asked, his curiosity evident.

Shun smiled, "Art evokes feelings, stimulates the imagination, and captures the essence of the human experience. It's not just about what you see; it's about how it makes you feel. A painting, in its beauty or complexity, has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and create a connection between the artist and those who appreciate it."

Sai nodded, beginning to appreciate the depth of the artwork before him. "So, art is like a language of emotions?" she inquired.

"Exactly, Sai. Art is a language that transcends words, allowing us to communicate and understand the intricate domain of human feelings and experiences," Shun affirmed, his eyes reflecting the passion he held for both the art of assassination and the art found in the strokes of a painter's brush.

It had already been two years since Shun returned from Konoha with his old and new students, as of now, the kids were already 15, so they weren't kids anymore. So other than Said and Karin, he didn't bother about the others as he felt he had done the best for them.

As for Karin and Sai, they've been tortured by Shun's repetitive lecture about the connection between Painting as an art and Emotions.

Karin always wondered how these two relate in any form but couldn't grasp it at all, however, her fellow student seemed to be enthralled whenever Shun gave this lecture.

This left her short for words.

As the possessor of the Kagura Mind Eye, she could see the various emotions one exhibits in certain situations, and although it was colorful, it wasn't as colorful as Shun painted it out to be.

Human emotions were... ugly for a lack of better words. If given the choice, she'd never wish to be able to see them, but for Shun...

"Good and Bad emotions... Who decided that? Anger is beautiful, same as Patience, Kindness and Love. Lust is possessive but isn't that the same for love and happiness?" Shun would say.

She had given up trying to understand him but Shun was ever so patient with her.

.....

Shun continued his explanation, guiding Sai and Karin patiently. "In our world, art extends beyond the canvas. It merges with our techniques, like the dance of chakra that courses through our veins. Just as a painter uses strokes to create, we use our chakra to weave a unique tapestry in battle."

He stood up, demonstrating a fluid hand movement that radiated chakra. "Our techniques are our brushstrokes. Each jutsu, each maneuver, is an expression of our artistic prowess. It's about mastering the balance between power and finesse, much like an artist crafting a masterpiece."

They both watched with fascination as Shun effortlessly manipulated chakra, creating an ethereal pattern in the air. "But how does this relate to assassination techniques?" Karin inquired.

Shun's eyes gleamed with intensity. "Assassination is an art in itself. Stealth, precision, and timing are our tools. We use our chakra like a silent brush, painting shadows with every movement. Just as a painting tells a story, our actions convey a narrative of skill and purpose."

"In the world of shinobi, mastering the art of combat is not just about defeating an opponent. It's about doing so with grace and control. An assassin's techniques are like strokes on the canvas of battle, leaving an indelible mark."

Sai nodded, beginning to grasp the connection between art and the shinobi way. "So, our techniques are not just about defeating enemies but doing so with a certain elegance?"

"Exactly, Sai. It's about turning the chaos of battle into a form of expression, a deadly dance where every move tells a story of skill and intent," Shun affirmed. "In the end, our artistry is not just for our enemies to witness but for us to honor the legacy of Hanagakure and the beauty of our craft."

"You lost me in how this was related to me in any way." Karin rolled her eyes at the two enthusiasts.

Although she knew they were both enthusiastic towards the art, she could also feel they were enthusiastic towards two different styles of art.

During the two years she had spent with Shun and Sai, she'd come to understand a few things about them.

Sai was the type to speak less but think more.

A simple sentence without any hidden meaning could spark his thoughts spiraling out of control. As for Shun, she's never attempted to understand his way of thinking at all.

She just felt she'd run mad if she tried so she gave up.

However, she couldn't deny the fact that Shun was a good teacher.

He had managed to change or rather, evolve Sai's Ink Style into a more powerful version so that he didn't need to rely on only black ink to battle.

Shun had told Sai that when he'll really reach the peak of his ability would be when he would be able to simply draw into existence anything he wants.

"With the world as a canvas, Chakra as ink and Brush as medium, anything was possible. Your imagination is your limit." Shun had told the pale skinned boy.

Although she found it preposterous, remembering the other pale-faced girl who simply Summoned a bunch of Sakura leaves that turned out to be deadly blades, she couldn't help but shiver as she thought of another person having that ability.

Shun had explained to her that they were both fundamentally different but she couldn't believe it.

As for her, all Shun asked of her was to perfect her chakra control while sparring with some clones of his on a daily basis.

As for the venue of the battles, it was a shearing hot volcano where a single mistake would mean her getting cooked.

She still shivered the first time she fell through, although she felt so much pain that made her pass out, when she woke up, she found it was only in her head.

"Chakra control requires a conscious and unconscious effort. Keep that in mind." Shun had told her after she had woken up.

Back then, she could still remember how she wailed herself to sleep thinking she'd made the worst decision of her life leaving her mother to train under this Demon from Hell.

"Chuckle..."

"What's so funny, Karin?" Shun asked

"No... nothing." She shook her head causing Shun to tilt his head in confusion before shrugging and focused back on Sai.

"I guess I really did become stronger. I wonder how strong Naruto-kun is now?" She thought while looking into the skies, however, her eyes immediately shot open as she felt something dangerous approaching.

"Sensei! Watch out!" She screamed and made to cover Shun but she was too late as the incoming bolts of Black lightning made contact with Shun, and immediately, they both disappeared.

"Sen-sensei....is dead?"

This was bad. What was she to tell his parents? No his parents aside, what was she to tell that unreasonable bro-con that is Yusano?

As she thought of this, she began panicking that she didn't notice the calm expression on Sai's face as he continued admiring the painting.

****

A/N: Hey guys, had a bad day today so I kinda got delayed. Anyways, here it is.

Also, don't worry about the Time Travel arc, I'll be writing it down shortly, in a chapter or two..

I kinda used Karin's Pov in this chapter a lot as I felt I should do so. Perhaps I'll use Sai later, I'm not sure.

Anyways, we'll continue with Shun's POV soon as he'll remember something that'll make him recall the visitors from another time.