1st Person POV - Shinsato Senju
[ Konoha's Training Grounds ]

The rain turned the training ground's dirt into sticky mud, making each step I take feels five times heavier. But perhaps I could turn this into my advantage. Lee continued with his warm ups, while I was properly warmed up and rearing to go. To set up several ground rules, I beckoned and approached Rock Lee. Might Guy had already retreated and hung around the tree line several dozens meters away, he seemed eager to spectate our spar.

"Say, Lee-san.. How would you like to conduct this spar? Should I match you in pure Taijutsu, or would you prefer if I go all out and use everything I've got?" my inquiry was met with Lee's pondering expression.

"Hm, would it be possible if we limit the first session to Taijutsu, Senju-san? Its just that, I'm really curious how I would compare to you. You seem like someone who takes their training seriously!" for once Lee's words weren't excessively exaggerated, though he still sounds highly spirited.

"I'd understand, Lee-san. We'll do as you asked. May the best Shinobi win?" I quipped, eager to see how I truly stand up to someone like Lee. Truth be told, I've been plowing myself to the ground as hard as I could. But I still  have doubt if my training had paid off. Its hard to match Lee's sheer dedication after all. 

"Sure!! I like your spirit, Senju-san!!" Lee exclaimed, seeming excited as ever.

"Please, call me Shin. In that case, let's start anytime you're good to go Lee-san!!" shifting into my stance, an amalgamation of Boxing and Muay Thai stance while Lee shifted into his own after my words reached him/

"Let's go! Here I come!!" he shouted, launching himself forward in surprising quickness. 

The green clad boy opened with Might Guy's iconic kick to which I side stepped, having half anticipate Lee's move. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, huh?

Lee immediately spun around as soon as he touched the ground. He used his momentum to follow up with a fast straight punch. This time I couldn't react in time, but my half finished attempt to evade resulted in Lee's fist impacting my shoulder instead of abdomen. It still hurts like seven hells though. Either I had grossly underestimate his strength, or I'm far behind Lee's well earned strength.

If this current version of Lee is holding back with his insane weighted training, I can't even begin to imagine how fighting against a Lee that's going all out. However despite this Lee's superior strength to mine, he's a bit slower than I anticipated.

Before Lee could pull back his extended arm however, I grappled his forearm and pulled him towards me. His face betrayed his surprise, clearly the boy hadn't expected my counter. A quick knee to his torso knocked him back a couple of meters, but I couldn't hit him as hard as I'd like. The move would only work if with the element of surprise, I can't afford to give Lee time to react and bring up his guard.

Though strong enough to knock the wind out of him, it was far from a decisive blow. Against common beliefs, a good fight isn't a drawn out one with flashy moves. A swift, elegantly executed counter-attack is often a hallmark of a great martial artist. That means, one is skilled enough to see their opponent's every move and plan a perfect counter against it. Think of how Ben Kenobi dispatched Maul in the sands of Tatooine.

Going against my better judgement, I stood my ground instead of following up against Lee. True enough, the boy caught himself with his hands and spun back onto his feet like breakdancer. His spinning legs would have easily caught me off guard. Besides, I lack the actual experience of being on the offensive. The little Taijutsu practice I had were mostly Academy spars with other students, and I couldn't actually go out against most of them.

Lee perked up once he got back on his feet. "That was amazing, Shin-san!! You seem like you're familiar with my fighting style!!"

Yeah no shit sherlock, I've seen your fight scenes over and over. Naruto was a big part of my childhood back then. Unfortunately I can't tell him this. Or maybe I can? "The Strong Fist is a style I had studied quite thoroughly, despite my lack of talent using them."

The bowl-cut boy nodded in understanding. "I see!! You must be very diligent!"

After a brisk second, Lee's gaze shifted into focus again. This time he didn't throw himself against me, instead, the boy stood his ground in an ever-ready stance. We both slowly circled one another like a pair of stag locked in combat.

I figured he's done testing the water for the first time, and now it's my turn to pay back the courtesy of taking the initiative. But I was hesitant, very much so. I'll be a liar to say I don't want to win this spar. Gods no, I've trained so hard and dedicated so much time in order to get where they are. 'Just like you had, Lee' I mused, only now finding more and more things in common with him.

Despite Lee waiting for me, I took my sweet time for the right opportune. Anything worthwjile can't be rushed. For a couple of minutes, the two of us simply circled each  other.

I can't afford to give away any signs, or Lee would easily see through my attacks. We seem to be relative in power and skills, but I'm not so naive to think my battle instincts and experience holds a candle to Lee's. To wait for an opening is a folly, and to mask an impending strike is unlikely. My best bet was to feign my attack and switch at the last moment, if this was a no holds-barred spar I could distract or force Lee by using tools or Jutsu. But I have no such luxuries.

Rushing ahead with full speed, I moved in a zig-zag pattern alternating with how much I pivot to each side. Before I reached Lee, however, I 'accidentally' telegraph a powerful right hook. Just as Lee's about side step and parry my strike, and at the right moment my foot slammed the ground really hard. Dashing to the side almost as fast as someone using a Body Flicker technique, my attempt to surprise Lee was rewarded.

Right hook turned into uppercut, the simplicity of my style won me an edge in sudden exchange whenever I have to rely on muscle memory. Lee took the uppercut well considering he was lifted off the grounds, but he landed square on his knees. This time, I didn't waste the opportunity and went straight for a follow up kick. The green-clad boy blocked my side kick with his forearm, but the force of my strike sent him sideways a few meters.

Lee touched down on the muddy ground, and he didn't waste a single second before breaking into a somersault and maneuvered himself behind me. Another difference between the two of us, we may have relative martial skills and well-forged body. Yet how he moved, pushing his limits with every move. He fights with passion, enjoying every passing moment. In contrast I spent the fight with cold calculative thoughts and overthinking every decision and factor.

Rock Lee is a warrior through and through, sparring against him made me feel like a pretender. Even after nine years filled with readjustment, hardy training, I can't change my innate nature; an Adventurous soul, contrary to a fighter. I'd need more time to implant a proper Shinobi's instincts. With this in mind, I made sure to approach every endeavor and challenge as analytical as I could.

Which lead me to the realization, I'd never defeat Lee in a drawn-out exchange. The more time he have, the more he would learn of my preferred style and the more chance I'd falter on my sub-par experience. This fight might be a mock battle, but I must treat it like a life-endangering encounter. It's the next best thing besides an actual fight to the death. Besides, who wouldn't pass up the chance to impress Might Guy? Dude was one of the strongest Shinobi around, and he didn't have any Tailed Beast or freaky pink eye to get him there. He was a man of focus, commitment and sheer will.

Sorry Lee, but I have to win. Even if it means playing dirty.

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1st Person POV - Rock Lee
[ Konoha's Training Grounds ]

'He's formidable. I have to be more cautious' I thought to myself when he recovered from Shin's unexpected uppercut. Being Guy-sensei's pupil means several things, including often tossed around like a ragdoll. Recovering from a blow had been one of the first thing Guy-sensei drilled, as he always said that it could make the difference between victory or defeat.

So when Shin-san charged forward, I had recovered my grounds and prepared. He tried the same zig-zag patterns of approach as earlier, but I doubt he's naive enough to try the same trick twice. As he draws near, I noticed his elbow tensed and slightly raised. Considering his momentum and fighting style so far, he's likely to deliver a crushing  blow to knock away my breath. Once he actually enters into striking distance Shin-san actually jumped high against my expectation, becoming a whirlwind of limbs that sailed over my head.

I turned around just before he made landfall, hoping to catch him off-guard before the Senju could land on his heels. Instead, I was met with a spinning double-kick while Shin was still airborne. 'He couldn't possibly land on his feet after that stunt' was my last coherent thought before my face was impacted by Shin's consecutive kicks. 

'It didn't matter if he sacrificed his landing, if he could deliver a decisive hit' the thought crossed my mind only when my back impacted the wet, muddy ground. W-wait, did this mean he win? Shin managed to land the first knockdown after all, though I'm not actually knocked out.

Before I realized it, Shin's fingertips press against my throat. They were warm with his energy, as I realized he could coat them with shape manipulation Chakra, turning his digits into a sharp edge at will.

"Do you yield, Lee-san?" he asked, still maintaining the soft pressure of his fingertips against my neck. 

Recognition dawned on me as I acknowledged I had actually been defeated. Shin-san had used my battle-instinct against me, as I wouldn't ever thought of sacrificing my own landing to land a hit. It went against everything Might Guy taught, and contradicts the very core of Strong Fist style; which was to strike hard, decisive yet remaining centered.

"Y-Yes, you win. You win, Senju-san"

He chuckled a bit as he shifted his fingers from holding me hostage into offering his hand. "Please, Lee-san. I thought I asked you to just call me Shin"

I took up his offer and he helped me up. Whatever I had to say was forgotten when Guy-sensei suddenly appeared between us, laughing in satisfaction and happiness. Both of his hand rest on our shoulder while he jovially congratulate Shin-san.

"WELL DONE SHIN-CHAN!! I'm sure I speak for Lee as well, but you have surprised as both!!! The way you defied expectation and feign that last attack, that was most brillant!!" Guy-sensei erupted into bellowing laughter once again.

"Congratulations, Shin-san! You truly have the Flames of Youth burning fiercely inside you!!" I added.

This time, Guy-sensei turned his gaze towards me. "Lee, you did well too. Don't sell yourself short! I hope this shows that your hard work pays off!! But remember!! Even with your dedication and training, there's always going to be someone who can match you. That victory can't just be earned from working hard, because an intelligent approach have its own virtue as well." His smile as warm and inspiring as ever. Some dust got into my eyes despite the ever-pouring rain, and I felt them starting to water. I swear I wasn't crying!!!

As Guy-sensei finished his words, Shin-san scoffed and interject. "I just got lucky, Guy-san. Lee-san still outclass me in every aspect, he's got the heart of a true soldier. Meanwhile I was doubting myself the entire time..."

Guy-sensei's face meld into a soft smile. He reached out and gave Shin-san his most supportive thumbs up, a gesture he rarely used to anyone else but me, Neji, Tenten and his eternal rival. "You've done well. Despite your disadvantages, you pulled through and won. That is the hallmark of a great Shinobi, Shin-chan!!"

Though the discontent didn't leave his face, Shin-san smiled and thanked Guy-sensei regardless. We checked for injury, but other than the final blow he dealt to me, which turned a slight blue, we were alright. I wanted to ask him about a rematch, but Guy-sensei decided against it. He asked to have a private moment with Shin-san, and welcomed me to head back first because he have to report to the Hokage afterwards anyway, and that he'd see me again tomorrow.

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1st Person POV - Shinsato Senju
[ Ichiraku Ramen ]

When Might Guy asked for a moment of my time, I can't help but be paranoid. Is he aware of my situation? Am I in trouble? Did another incarnate snitched about the existence of others, and if so am I a suspect? Even these thoughts are rather best case scenario. What if we Incarnates were considered enemy of the establishment, or if they wish to capture and interrogate us? W-would they make a Yamanaka trance around my mind?

Maybe Might Guy is upset I defeated Rock Lee with a cheap psychology trick? He doesn't seem to be the type. On the contrary.. he seems like he'd praise me in good spirit, saying stuff like that I am filled with the Flames of Youth.

And yet he led me to Ichiraku Ramen, telling me he'd like to chat over some dinner. A ramen would go a long way amidst the cold air of the rain. It's actually the first time I had Ichiraku's, since I was dead-set on avoiding this place to not get entangled with Naruto and co.

Never would have I thought I'd eat here with Might Guy, and he's even paying for my meal. 

"Old man!! Two Miso Pork Ramen with extra fish cakes for mine" Guy ordered over the counter as he take a seat. I followed quickly, claiming a stool next to him. Ichiraku's was everything I had imagined it would be. The interior is cozy, with wooden booths lining the walls and lanterns casting a soft, golden glow.

While we sat and wait, Might Guy broke the silence and handed me a small scroll that appeared out of nowhere. "Here, I think you'd appreciate what's inside" his words and demeanor changed into a more subdued one once we settled in Ichiraku's empty stalls.

"What's in this, Guy-san?" I asked, tentatively taking the scrolls and examining it. Dark crimson wrapping covered the scroll, and the parchment inside had turned slightly yellow from the weather and passing time.

"It contains information about various Taijutsu style, barring the Hyuga's Gentle Fist and the Uchiha's Interceptor Style. I'd like you to have it, consider it a thanks for helping Lee..." his words didn't betray his emotions, but a gleam in Might Guy's eyes reflect a cherished memory.

"This is.. a rare and precious scroll. Are you sure you want me to keep it?" I incredulously asked.

"Yes, I've memorized all of them. So would Lee, in time.." just as he finished his sentence, our Ramen was served. We silently chose to eat the steaming bowl of Ramen first, leaving the awkward tension to ease overtime.

During the entire meal, my thoughts raced dangerously.
'Why did he gave me this? We've barely met..'
'What is Might Guy's intention?'

I couldn't contain my curiosity much longer, so as soon as I finished the last drop of my broth I put down the chopsticks and turned to Guy. "Guy-san, I can't help but question why we're here. And why did you give me this scroll. Can you elaborate? Did the village council sent you?"

The elders of Konoha had taken notice of my talents and skills. They praised my maturity despite my youth, sometimes even comparing myself with the likes of Uchiha Itachi and Namikaze Minato, the venerated Fourth Hokage. I refused their offer to be moved ahead in grades, I wanted to bide my time and be more involved with the story come my graduation. Ever since then, I noticed shadows that looked off and muffled breathings following me around. Occasionally.

A tell tale of ANBUs shadowing my tail. Or worse, Danzo's zealous ROOT Shinobis.

Might Guy sighed as he thought of an answer.
"You're a strong Shinobi, Shin-san. Far stronger than the silly facade of an act that you like to put on. But more importantly, you're a good man. I'm not supposed to tell you this, but you would have figured it out by yourself anyways. Sandaime-sama sent me to observe you, but I went off my ways to find more about you. Best method for that is to observe a fight. A Shinobi's heart is reflected in how he navigate a challenge."

After his revelation, I stayed silent and kept to myself. Thankful, that Guy had told me the truth despite the risk of being reprimanded. But cautious, now that I've drawn even more attention.

"Lord Danzo had openly request that you're pulled from the Academy, and underwent ANBU training as soon as possible. The legacy you inherit didn't help too, as you are the last Senju that remained active in our ranks" Guy continued.

"Is that so? What's the verdict?" I asked, seething anger boiling in my chest for the lack of autonomy and freedom I have for being a young, unexperienced Shinobi under Konoha's leadership.

"Sandaime-sama had urged for a thorough observation of your skills and psyche. I was chosen as his eyes and ears, for my unsuitability serving under organizations like the ANBU can offer a second-hand opinion . If you're not clear about what I'm saying, it means the Sandaime-sama had hoped to find yourself unsuitable as well. Other elders agreed as well, though I reckoned they hesitate due to the stigma that geniuses like Uchiha Itachi and Orochimaru had brought." Guy explained.

I thanked my stars Hiruzen remained the reasonable man he was in the show, barred him mishandling of Naruto's upbringing. Danzo's curious eyes though, will prove to be a dangerous water to trek. I want nothing to do with his extreme measures and zealot soldiers.

I turned my gaze away, dreading Guy's answer despite the obviousness of the situation.
"And what have.. you find of myself?"

"In accordance to Sandaime-sama's expectation" came his brisk reply.

"Good. I take it we are finished here?" I started to turn away and be on my feet. Despite Guy's forwardness, I can't bring myself to trust him anymore. Not fully.

How did the saying goes? Never meet your heroes..

"You are free to leave, Shin-san. I apologize for troubling you." even now I can hear the subtle guilt in Guy's voice. I didn't care.

"Thankyou for the Ramen, Guy-san. And the scroll, I will put them to good use. However, take no offense despite your well intention, I too intend to return it once I'm done. Good bye for now.." my feet already moved the very moment i finished my sentence.

The angry rain and howling wind still roared outside. I didn't care.

"Wait. I just wanted to thank you for sparring with Lee. You inspired in him motivation just as he started to doubt himself. I owe you for that, Shin-san." Might Guy said, grabbing my shoulder cautiously before I exit Ichiraku's.

"...You don't. I suppose, telling me of my situation despite of your own position is enough. And I suppose I should've thanked you..." came my monotone reply. We remained still for a few seconds, but it felt like an hour too long.

"May I go?" I turned my head and glared at the Jonin, whose hands remained in my shoulder.

Guy bit his words and let go, answering with nothing but a nod. I took that cue to leave the place, not giving him another glance.

Unknown to my senses, guy stood there after I left, muttering something under his breath.
"I'm shameful for what our Village had almost put you through, Shin-san."

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Author's Note :
There goes third chapter!
I wanted to paint a beautiful picture where an excited Shin spars Rock Lee while a curious Might Guy observes. But not everything would be all sunshine and rainbows, after all the world of Shinobi is full of subterfuge, schemes and politics.

Shin have yet to learn that. Might alone isn't a guarantee of victory.

And despite Might Guy's kindness, Shin is still a conflicted, emotional human being. His promise for a change might not be that easy to fulfill after all.

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