Naruto: One Eye Tenseigan

Tomaru knelt beside her, his attention drawn to the black mark etched on her neck—the Cursed Seal of Heaven. From his knowledge, he understood the true nature of this seal. It wasn't just a tool Orochimaru used to manipulate his subordinates; it contained Jūgo's enzyme, a rare and potent catalyst that enabled the passive absorption of natural energy, granting access to senjutsu. However, without proper control, the enzyme could destabilize its host, causing madness or death.

"This could be… useful," Tomaru thought, his expression hidden behind his mask. His unique chakra control abilities, augmented by the White Zetsu cells in his body, made it possible for him to extract the enzyme safely.

Tomaru placed his hand gently on Anko's neck, his fingers brushing over the mark as he focused his chakra. He pressed a series of tenketsu points on her body, ensuring she remained unconscious throughout the process. The subtle glow of his Tenseigan intensified as he began to channel his energy into the seal.

With deliberate precision, he isolated the chakra patterns unique to the cursed seal. The mark resisted, pulsating violently as though it were alive, attempting to retaliate against the intrusion. Tomaru reinforced his chakra, neutralizing the chaotic energy. Slowly, the seal's dark energy began to recede, drawn into his own body.

As the process continued, Tomaru also detected traces of Orochimaru's chakra entwined within the seal. It was a remnant of the sannin's influence, acting as both a safeguard and a means of control.

When the extraction was complete, Tomaru clenched his fist, feeling the newfound energy resonate within him. The enzyme had fully integrated into his system, granting him the ability to passively absorb senjutsu energy without the instability that plagued others.

Tomaru rose to his feet, casting a final glance at Anko. The cursed seal was gone, leaving her neck unmarked and free of Orochimaru's influence. For the first time in years, she would wake up without the burden of that cursed power.

Satisfied, Tomaru turned his attention back to the battlefield. The Watari Ninja had provided him with intriguing techniques, each one a testament to their unique combat style. Their abilities were now part of his arsenal, thanks to the White Zetsu's replication ability. Among these techniques, several stood out:

Assimilate All Creation Technique: By taking on the properties of nearby materials, the user could merge seamlessly with their surroundings. This technique enabled evasion and creation of unique jutsu like "Assimilation: Rock Blizzard" or "Assimilation: Sand Binding Coffin" It allowed manipulation of similar substances and granted both strengths and weaknesses of the absorbed material.

Gliding Water Flow: Creating a thin water layer beneath their feet, they enhanced speed and mobility, making movements unpredictable.

Explosive Infusion: Embedding explosive chakra into objects or terrain, they set deadly traps to catch opponents off guard.

Each technique reflected the Watari clan's ingenuity and adaptability, traits that Tomaru appreciated and intended to utilize. With these new abilities and the enzyme now part of his repertoire, he felt more prepared for the challenges ahead.

Tomaru scanned the area one last time, ensuring no evidence of his actions remained. Anko's chakra signature was stable, her body beginning to show signs of stirring. It was time to leave before she awoke.

With a final, fleeting glance, he vanished into the forest.

The Land of Grass was a stark contrast to the Land of Fire. Its wild forests, with towering bamboo and narrow, winding paths, exuded a sense of untamed beauty. Rivers shimmered under the sunlight, and deep ravines cut through the terrain like scars of ancient battles. For Tomaru, the journey wasn't just a change of scenery—it was a calculated step toward obscurity.

After traversing the rugged terrain, Tomaru's steps carried him to a narrow bridge suspended over a ravine. The wood groaned under his weight as he paused mid-crossing, his gaze locking onto the distant silhouette of the Kannabi Bridge ruins. The site, steeped in blood and history, had shaped the fates of nations during the Third Shinobi World War.

He stepped off the bridge and entered the untamed forest. The damp forest floor muffled his footsteps, blending the earthy scent of moss with the faint gurgle of streams. Bamboo stalks towered like silent sentinels, their shadows shifting as sunlight filtered through the canopy. The terrain was disorienting, but Tomaru moved with the confidence of someone who perceived the world beyond ordinary sight.

Kusagakure's reputation as a neutral and somewhat obscure village made it a haven for drifters, mercenaries, and those seeking anonymity. Beneath its serene facade, however, lurked shadows of exploitation and desperation.

A serene riverbank came into view, its surface shimmering as sunlight filtered through the towering bamboo. Tomaru had stopped here intentionally, setting up a modest camp near the river. He knew exactly what he was doing.

Tomaru crouched by the water's edge, his reflection rippling as he rinsed a freshly caught fish. Nearby, a small fire crackled softly, already cooking another fish skewered on a stick. He leaned back against the trunk of a sturdy tree, his dark robe slightly undone to reveal his relaxed posture. It was a calculated display of vulnerability, one designed to put any wary observer at ease. The air around him radiated calm, and his Tenseigan, concealed under his mask, flickered faintly as he scanned the area, waiting.

He had suppressed nearly all of his chakra using the Chakra Suppression Technique, a skill he'd mastered to avoid overwhelming others with his immense reserves. Someone with sensory abilities as sharp as Karin's would have noticed his presence long ago if he hadn't. His aim was simple: to draw her in without alarming her.

Not far away, Karin Uzumaki crouched behind a thick patch of bamboo, her sharp crimson eyes locked onto the figure by the river. She had sensed him before she saw him—a gentle yet distinct chakra presence that had caught her off guard. Most chakra signatures were chaotic or forceful in some way, but this one was different. It felt... warm. Calm, even. Like sunlight. And yet, she couldn't bring herself to trust it entirely. The Land of Grass was no place for blind faith.

Her hand hovered over her kunai pouch as she peered out from her hiding place, analyzing him. The young man looked unarmed, his posture relaxed, his demeanor casual as he flipped the fish cooking over the fire. His dark robe and hood concealed most of his features, but there was no mistaking the deliberate ease with which he carried himself. He wasn't just a wandering traveler; that much was clear.

Yet Karin stayed rooted in place, her shyness outweighing her curiosity. Hours passed, and she remained hidden, her gaze never leaving him. Despite herself, she wondered if someone with such calm energy could really pose a threat.

Her thoughts were interrupted by hurried footsteps. Karin turned sharply to see a Kusagakure ninja, his uniform bloodied and torn, staggering toward her. His eyes burned with desperation, his face pale.

"Karin! Where have you been? Come here, quickly!" he barked, his voice hoarse and sharp.

Startled, Karin hesitated before stepping out of her hiding place. The ninja seized her arm without preamble, sinking his teeth into her pale skin. Karin winced but didn't resist as her chakra flared to life, flowing into him. The bleeding at his side slowed, and his breathing steadied.

Tomaru's gaze flicked toward the scene. He remained seated, his blue eyes sharp and observant. He had heard of the Uzumaki clan's unique healing abilities, but seeing it firsthand painted a grim picture. Karin's chakra was rich, but her thin frame and bandaged arms hinted at overuse—evidence of a life spent being drained.

The ninja released her arm, panting heavily. "More," he demanded, his eyes wild as he lunged for her again.

Tomaru moved instantly. In a blur, he was between them, his fingers pressing several points on the man's chest and neck in a precise sequence. The ninja froze, his body collapsing limply to the ground.

Karin stumbled back, her crimson eyes wide. "W-What did you do?" she stammered.

"Paralyzed him," Tomaru said simply, his voice calm. "He won't bother you for a while." His sharp gaze lingered on her trembling form. "Do they always treat you like this?"

Karin's shoulders tensed, and she hugged her arm close, avoiding his gaze. Her lips quivered, but she said nothing.

Tomaru's expression softened. He felt a pang of sympathy for the girl, though his goals remained clear. "You should take better care of yourself. You won't last long if you keep letting them use you." His words were calm, but they carried a quiet sincerity.

Karin's heart clenched at his words. She looked down, her fingers clutching the fabric of her sleeve. After a moment of hesitation, she spoke. "Wait!" she called, her voice cracking slightly.

Tomaru turned slightly, his hood casting a shadow over his face. "What is it?"

Her hands trembled, but she steadied herself. "Can... can I come with you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Tomaru raised an eyebrow, studying her with mild surprise. He hadn't expected her to ask outright. Recruiting someone so young weighed on his conscience, but her potential was undeniable, and the despair in her eyes tugged at his heart. "Why?"

"I… I don't want to stay here anymore," she admitted softly. Her crimson eyes shone with unspoken pain.

Tomaru's gaze lingered on her for a moment before he turned back toward his campfire, packing his belongings. "If you're coming, don't expect me to slow down for you," he said casually as he began walking.

Inside, his heart swelled with a bittersweet happiness. He had wanted to recruit her, but her willingness made him feel less like a manipulator and more like a guide. Maybe, just maybe, he could give her the chance to escape her pain.

Karin stood frozen, his response leaving her momentarily stunned. Then, with newfound determination, she hurried after him, her steps quick and eager despite the uncertainty in her heart. For the first time in years, she felt a glimmer of hope—a fragile but unmistakable belief that she might escape the shadows of her past.