Author: Well it sucks that I only got a few reviews, but I know it is my fault for being so lazy and getting busy with everything. Curse the business in life. College has been so hectic. It probably doesn't help that I am a graphic design major. I have to draw and paint sooo much that I barely have time to type, let alone sleep. Not only that, but finals really kept me busy. I hope this chapter will get some people to review and let me know how I am doing. Anyway, on with the story.
Disclaimer: I do not own anything associated with Naruto, because even if I did, there is no way I could make it as awesome as it is.
"Talking"
"Thinking"
Jutsu
{Demon or Summon Speech in Mental Realm}
"Demon or Summon Speech in Physical Realm"
-Scene or Time Change-
Current Ages:
Kakashi and Rin: 25
Iruka and Kurenai: 22
Naruto: 10 (with body of a fourteen year old)
Chapter 10
There is No Need to Fear
-Two Months Later-
Sarutobi stood at the entrance to the hidden training ground. As the earth began to shift and open, Naruto's chakra signature became detectable. Worry quickly set in as the elder Hokage noticed the lack of strength that it normally possessed. Before the man could sprint into the tunnel, a tuff of blond hair appeared. The boy was limping and covered in chakra burn marks.
"Naruto!" the man called in worry as the boy collapsed.
For as old as he was, Sarutobi was quick to grab the boy and teleport to the nearest medical facility.
-Fifteen Minutes Late At the Hospital-
Naruto awoke to the sound of machines buzzing and beeping away.
"I guess I might have taken it a little too far that last day…" the boy murmured.
{Naru-kun! Are you okay?} Mitsukai whined.
"Yes I am quite alright."
Naruto took in his surroundings. He appeared to be in a special room in the hospital. The walls were not the normal static white. A light blue paint covered the surface. A large chair displayed his fighting attire, and the bed he rested upon was exceptionally soft. It was calming. It was then the boy noticed the many tubes and IV's in his body.
"I hate needles."
Instantly every metal protrusion shot out; Kageshin then began the healing process.
"Much better…"
After escaping from his fabric confines, Naruto removed his hospital gown and started to clothe himself. Once his pants were fastened around his waist, the blond stared at the position of the sun. According to its current position, it was roughly around three o' clock.
"So the chuunin exams will be tomorrow?" he stated to no one in particular
"That is correct Little One." A feminine voice sang.
"Kure-hime…" Naruto breathed, feeling her presence and scent encircle him.
The blond turned to face his precious person and she gasped. Even though he was only ten, the boy had better muscular definition then most jounin men. However, that is not what caught her attention the most. There was a large u-shaped scar upon his upper left chest. The closer she inspected, the more she noticed that it was made up of punctures.
"W-what happened while you were training?" she gasped, covering her mouth. "Did an animal attack him? It looks like a bite mark…"
Naruto closed the distance between the two and embraced the crimson-eyed beauty.
"Let's just say that I was not the only one there." A sigh escaped his throat as her addicting scent assaulted his being.
Naruto did not want to tell her about the attacker being the very same wolf that had protected her in the Jounin exams.
"But do not worry," the blond looked her straight in the eye before continuing "I defeated the beast and was still able to become stronger during my absence."
Trusting the man was not a problem for Kurenai, but she sensed that he withheld information from her. This was most likely to cause her not to worry, so she decided to let his answer satisfy her curiosity for now. Suddenly, Naruto took the woman's hands into his own; head bowed down. An adorable blush encased his countenance as a stream of intelligible words exited the genin's mouth.
"I'm sorry Little One but I didn't understand what you said." She cheerfully giggled.
This only proved to further embarrassed the young male. With what courage he was gifted with at the moment, the blond's gaze bore right into those crimson orbs.
"I only have one more promotion to go!" Naruto basically yelled.
Now it was Kurenai's turn to blush. He did only have one more level to go before she would allow them to date. Being a Genjutsu master, Kurenai was very aware of the stress Naruto was going through right now. His hands were sweaty; griping tightly onto hers. She could sense his erratic heartbeat through the thumb. Kurenai's Little One was looking for a reply of some sort. After reigning in her raging emotions, she took a calming deep breath.
"You are correct Naruto and as of yet, there still lacks a suitable male to court me."
She saw and felt his body relax.
"Do you honestly think I would not tell you if I was considering someone?" Kurenai smiled sweetly, "You would be one of the first people I would reveal him to, just so you can make sure he is acceptable."
Naruto smiled back. It meant the world that she would make sure he knew. Not only that, but he would also get the opportunity to decide if the lowly man was good enough for his "Hime".
"Now Naruto? Can you do something for me?" she questioned; a light blush adorning her face.
Naruto found it very cute and only nodded. He did not trust his voice at that moment.
"Can you put on a shirt? I don't want anyone to come in here and see that scar of yours. It might warrant some unwanted questions."
Naruto's mischievous side suddenly presented itself.
"Are you sure Hime? Judging by the drool, you prefer it to be off." He teased with a smirk.
"B-b-b-" the woman stammered, a full blush taking control of her features.
A laugh escaped Naruto's throat as he retrieved his shirt.
"You sure?" the boy teased again.
"Yes!" she stammered; an indignant look upon her face.
Once again the blond found himself laughing. His shirt was now on, albeit a little tight. Naruto paid it no mind and went to put on his nodachi vest. No matter how hard he tried, the blond could not get the four silver clasps to click.
"I think you grew again Little One." Kurenai smirked.
"I thought so too. After all, I think I'm taller than you now." The corners of his mouth curved up.
Kurenai refused to believe that and she closed the distance. She measured once… twice… thrice…
"I can't believe it!" she pouted, folding her arms. "I do have to look up to you now…"
Naruto was now a couple inches taller than her. A chuckle filled the room as arms wrapped around the genjutsu mistress.
"I'm sorry, but I refuse to be smaller than you."
He then brought his mouth to her ear.
"After all…" hot breath struck her ear, effectively sending a shiver down her spine. "How can I protect you properly if I cannot shield you entirely? Answer me that H-I-M-E…"
Once again she shivered at his warm breath.
"Na-na-naru…" she stuttered in a Hinata-like fashion.
Naruto's chest rumbled as he laughed.
"Now, if you will excuse me. I have more than just a vest to earn."
The male placed a quick peck on her cheek before jumping out the window. Kurenai watched the man leave, frozen to her spot. Suddenly realization hit her.
"He never checked out!"
She proceeded to jump after him, but she could neither see him nor sense his chakra within the immediate area.
-Meanwhile with Naruto-
Said blond was jumping from roof to roof aiming to go home quickly. After all, he needed to get new clothes. Though it was a little hard to concentrate with Mitsukai screaming in his ear about what he just did to Kurenai.
{Oh Naru-kun! You're so mischievous! Your little hime-chan blushed so hard! Kawaii!} she squealed.
{Mitsu, quiet down!} Tenshu ordered.
{You're just jealous of my Naru-chan's ability to seduce his woman.} she cooed.
A blush soon adorned Naruto's face at what the scythe was implying.
"She isn't my woman yet Mitsukai. I need to pass this exam AND get promoted before I have the chance to say that."
{But-}
"Hey you!" a gruff voice called out.
Naruto noticed some men standing on the ground. Taking hold of a post, Naruto changed his trajectory to the ground. Upon realizing who these men were, the boy was instantly on guard.
"Samurai…"
-With the Hokage-
The elder man sighed heavily as he worked on the bane of his existence, paperwork. Suddenly he looked out the window. His eyes grew wide upon realizing the time.
"Ryuuzaki will be here soon!"
With speed greater than anyone would expect, Sarutobi was dressed in the traditional Kage robes. His secretary nearly had a heart attack as both doors were flung open with tremendous force. A red and white blur shot in front of her, scattering all the paperwork she had just organized.
-Back with Naruto-
Naruto was frozen in place. There were ten samurai occupying the space in front of him. So many questions entered his mind. What were samurai doing in Konoha? How did they get past the gate without the alarm going off? Why are there only ten of them? There were many more, but it was of no importance compared to the "enemies" before him. Naruto decided to assess the group and hopefully figure out why they were here.
One appeared to be the leader based on his seasoned and aged look. To his right stood a man with a beard that started at his sideburns and wrapped around his chin to end at the other sideburn. This man intrigued Naruto to the most. He possessed a standard array of the traditional samurai armor. Three swords hung from his belt. Each one varied in length and thickness. What caught his attention the most, were a set of trench knives clinging to the man's forearms. The other eight samurai he paid no attention.
"Ninja tools, on a samurai?" the boy thought slowly taking a neutral, yet defensive stance. "What business do you have in Konoha?"
He primed his muscles so that they would be ready to make a move it if became necessary. A pregnant silence hung over the two factions before the three-sword wielding man spoke.
"What is your rank shinobi-san?" a deep baritone exited the man's throat.
"I am a genin samurai-san."
The elder man chuckled slightly before speaking.
"It appears Sarutobi-sama decided to not let the genin know of our arrival."
Naruto tensed at the statement.
"Your arrival? Are you here for the Chuunin exams?" the boy narrowed his eyes.
"Correct gaki." One of the other eight spoke.
This got a glare from the blond, effectively shutting said offender up.
"My name is Uzumaki Naruto, not gaki."
A laugh split the tension in the air as the elder samurai put his hands up as a sign of neutrality.
"Well Uzumaki Naruto, since you were so kind to offer us your name, I will introduce myself." Seeing Naruto visibly relax, the man continued. "My name is Ryuuzaki. I am the Head Samurai in the Ice Village. The man you were analyzing a while back is my right hand man Asuma."
At that, said male bowed respectfully to Naruto. Though it was a bit awkward, Naruto returned the gesture. If what the old guy said was true, the boy was walking on thin ice. One wrong move could potentially start an unneeded conflict; maybe even war.
"Forgive my ignorance Ryuuzaki-dono."
Another laugh filled the air.
"You are in the right for your previous actions. It is quite rare for Samurai and Shinobi to meet on friendly terms."
Naruto nodded in understanding.
"If I may, to make up for my past rudeness, escort you to Hokage-sama personally."
"That would be-" Ryuuzaki began.
"Unnecessary Uzumaki-san." Another elderly voice rang slightly winded.
"Ah, Sarutobi-sama. It's an honor to finally meet you in person." The head samurai greeted.
"The feeling is mutual Ryuuzaki-sama."
"I see you have met one of our most promising genin already."
Naruto was shocked at the blatant praise from the Hokage.
"Really? Then I definitely look forward to the tournament portion of the chuunin exams."
"I will be sure to give you a show when I fight." The blond confirmed. "Now, I need to excuse myself. I have some preparations to take care of before I start the exams."
Naruto bowed politely to all the samurai present before disappearing with a burst of speed.
Ryuuzaki's countenance morphed from playful to business-oriented state.
"Hokage-sama, I believe we have a lot to discuss while we wait for the tournament."
"You are correct. Please follow me and we will continue where we left off last time."
Without another word, the two powerful men walked in step; the other nine samurai falling in suite.
-With Naruto-
He stopped by his house to change before leaping from rooftop to rooftop. Eventually he jumped over a wall and into the forest. Tree after tree whipped past the boy as he sped towards Training Ground Eighteen. This was the closest one and it would serve his purpose. After sitting on the ground, Naruto focused on storing up a high amount of chakra before calling out the technique.
"Kage Bunshin No Jutsu"
Fifteen clones suddenly popped up and looked directly at their creator, waiting for instructions. Walking up to each individual clone, Naruto whispered specific instructions. Without a word, the carbon copies jumped off into the distance. After the last clone had disappeared Naruto sensed a strike coming in from the sky and jumped away. The opponent slammed into the earth sending debris and dust into the air. A barrage of kunai flew from the smoke following up the previous attack. Naruto noticed a space wide enough for him to slip through the assault unharmed. He took it, but a figure burst from the dust. As the weapons flew harmlessly by, the blond realized he was stuck. A punch sent him flying across the training ground. Another volley of kunai shot from the surrounding trees closely followed by the mysterious attacker.
"Crap…there's two of them…"
Naruto started focusing a large amount of chakra into his chest. Within seconds it was dense enough for his intended purpose. Quickly he shifted the chakra from his chest to his right foot as he raised it off the ground. The blond called out his technique while sending his foot into the earth.
"Kilaton Drop!"
Large slabs of earth rose. Each slab slammed into each other, protecting the blond genin from harm. The technique was not done though. Naruto's opponents heard a quiet murmuring from within the pyramid-like stone defense. Suddenly one wall exploded in a storm of earth chunks. Every shard flew dangerously towards the two. The taijutsu user punched through the earth and brought up a giant root to protect himself and the kenjutsu user from a second barrage of projectiles. Once the assault had ceased, both combatants looked around the root; hoping to spot their single target.
"You two have definitely gotten better since the last time we were together. Lee- Tenten-"
"YOSH! NARUTO-KUN YOUR FLAMES OF YOUTH ARE ASTOUNDING!"
Tenten sighed before greeting her second teammate with a smile. Lee continued to spout about youthfulness in the background.
"It is good to see you again Naruto-kun."
"Like-wise. How was training with your dad?"
"It was great. I learned about five new techniques and my accuracy is almost unmatched by anyone." She cheered.
"Good, now I do believe that-"
"Dynamic Entry!" a deep, but loud voice shouted.
The new arrival's foot collided with Lee's face. Once again dust and debris obstructed the area.
"YOSH! LEE-KUN YOU NEED TO BE MORE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS!"
"HAI GAI-SENSEI! FORGIVE MY IGNORANCE! FOR MY LACK OF ABILITY I WILL MEDITATE FOR THREE DAYS STRAIGHT!"
"YOSH HOW YOUTHFUL OF YOU!" Gai yelled. "LEE!"
"GAI-SENSEI!"
"LEE!"
"Okay I'm out of here…" Naruto drawled, knowing where this would end up going.
Capturing Tenten's hand with his left, he began to drag her away because she was too horrified to move. Gai saw them leaving and stopped the hug session immediately. A kick from the jounin stopped against Naruto's forearm. A resounding 'smack' of flesh on flesh echoed throughout the clearing.
"It appears you have gotten stronger Naruto…" the man whispered.
"Only a little Gai-sensei. I am far from where I want to be, but I am slowly making progress. If you have anything you would like to tell us, please do so now. It is getting late and we all need our rest for tomorrow."
"You are correct. Team! Tomorrow you will all receive the chance to earn the title of chuunin. Granted, this is no easy task. Every aspect of your character and ninja prowess will be tested to the fullest."
Lee scooted closer to his idol, a blazing looking of determination resonating within his being.
"Truth be told, I do not care if you are awarded the title or not. All I care about is that you try your best. Prove your dreams to those in attendance and to yourselves!"
"HAI!" the three chorused.
"Now, you three will need to meet in room 301 at the academy at 10am tomorrow."
With that said and done, the spandex-clad male jumped off. Naruto turned to his comrades.
"Alright team, here's what's going down tomorrow-"
-The Next Day-
Naruto sat on the academy's roof, simply taking a nap in the morning sun. It was currently 9:30 A.M. and the blond sensed Tenten land upon the rooftop.
"Morning." Naruto called, not opening his eyes.
"Good morning to you as well Naruto-kun."
The two sat in silence. That is, Tenten sat in silence. Naruto conversed with his weapons while he waited.
{Naru-sama I am so excited! Will you be handling me during the exams?} Mitsukai asked.
"It depends." He said truthfully, "Kageshin and Tenshu are the two that a couple people have seen. If I am fighting a group by myself, then I probably will. However, due to your specific capabilities, I prefer to use you only when I have to kill an opponent. The jounin have seen Kageshin and rare glimpses of Tenshu. You, however, have yet to be seen. I would like to keep it that way too."
He could hear the disappointment in her voice as she whined.
{This sucks!}
"Do not worry Mitsu-chan. If I am allowed to be a chuunin, you will definitely be coming out more."
It was at this point that Lee appeared. Without an exchange of greetings, Naruto and company dropped from the roof onto the third floor. Gai appeared before them as they approached the room to the first part of the exam.
"Hello Gai-Sensei." They chorused.
"Hello Naruto, Lee, Tenten. I believe all of you are prepared enough. All I have left to say is good luck."
A quick salute and all three genin entered the room. Instantly every head turned to look at the new arrivals. Glares bore into the younger ninja. Naruto shrugged off the heated stares before taking a seat in the corner. His teammates soon joined him.
"Try not to draw any attention to us. The less the competition knows, the better." the blond genin stated in a hushed tone. Minutes passed and more teams entered the room. A lot of them were young Konoha teams. A lot of the newly arrived teams placed their focus upon Naruto and his group. After varied eye contact, the other team would cockily smirk. This blatant arrogance kept producing a frown on Tenten's face. After it had happened for the third time, said weapon expert reached for a kunai. She would wipe those smirks off their faces. However, when she reached her kunai pouch, she didn't grab the intended weapon, but a hand. It was Naruto's.
"Tenten, calm down." He commanded. "There is no need to cause friendly fire just yet."
At this point in time, a group of jounin and chuunin entered the room. After looking over the one hundred teams that occupied the room, the assumed proctor spoke.
"Welcome to the chuunin selection exam." A man that Naruto recognized was the said speaker.
"Itachi is going to be the proctor?" the boy mentally cursed.
Said Uchiha then began to explain the rules for the first part of the chuunin exams: a written test.
Each person began with ten points. If the question is answered incorrectly, one point is deducted. Two points are deducted when a participant is caught cheating.
"Wait…when a participant is caught cheating?" Tenten deduced.
She sent a look to her teammates. Apparently both males had come to the same conclusion.
"Not only that, but when anyone on your team loses all ten points, the entire team has to retire from the exams and will have to try again next year. But be careful, how you answer these questions. It could possibly affect you further on in this exam."
After he finished his explanation, Itachi held a box with a small hole in it.
"Now, form a line and pick a number. Whichever number you pick, that is the seat you will be have."
It took ten minutes for all the contestants to withdraw their number from the box. Once everyone was seated, Itachi had the chuunin helpers of the exam pass them out. It was at this time that Naruto noticed exactly who he was sitting by. Naruto was completely surrounded by woman. On his left was a young female with bright blond hair and a fair complexion. She was moderate in body size, and had a cute quality about her. However, to his right, to say the least, was a woman. She was possibly around the age of eighteen. This was based upon how far more developed she was then the other contestants of the female gender. She possessed medium auburn hair pulled into high ponytail. Her bangs were long and covered one of her bright green eyes. She wore a black form-fitting Chinese battle dress that covered her deep cream colored skin. However, the top of the dress was open to reveal an ample amount of skin and cleavage. Out of the corner of his eye, Naruto could make out her long, slender legs. On the end of those tone legs, were a pair of stiletto shinobi boots that stopped three quarters of the way up her shin.
"I would not want to be kicked by those!" the blond instantly thought. "Those heels could probably punch a hole through steel."
Naruto sweat dropped as he noticed a lot of the male participants were drooling over this beautiful specimen. Even some of the chuunin helpers couldn't keep their eyes off her.
"Typical men…" Naruto thought. "Then again, this could be one of her techniques for fighting."
Yes, he would admit that she is beautiful, but, as cliché as it may sound; she didn't compare to his Kurenai-hime. The kunoichi sitting next to the male scanned the blond with her only visible eye. She took in his form with a calculating eye. Naruto could feel as his chiseled arms, his armor covered chest, nodachi sheath, combat pants and shoeless feet being traced over. It was at this moment, the woman's headband came into view as she twisted to get a better view of Naruto. Upon her right shoulder, sat the Kumo insignia. Deciding to be friendly, Naruto whispered to her.
"Enjoying the view?" He questioned with a tiny smirk.
A small blush adorned her delicate face.
"Oh, so you noticed shinobi-kun?" she whispered back unsure of herself. "I hope I could ask the same of you?"
"Insecurity?"
{Of course Naru-sama!} Mitsukai announced. {A lot of woman struggle with it. All because of what the stupid media says they have to be a specific size, body sh-}
"I get it!" the boy called back.
"I would be lying if I said no." a small chuckle escaped his throat. "Uzumaki Naruto…"
He offered his name, hoping to get a reply.
"Aiyoku…Arashi Aiyoku," she quickly replied. "It is a pleasure to meet you Naruto-kun."
"The feeling is mutual."
"QUIT TALKING MAGGOTS!" one of the chuunin handing out the test called.
The two resumed taking the test without another word.
"Wait a second," Naruto thought to himself, "Why would Itachi tell us the rules before the exam was even given out? Was it to allow teams to coordinate with their teammates? Or is it all just a ruse to make us focus more on the implications than the actual exam?"
The blond stared directly at Itachi for a good five minutes. Of course the jounin knew of this and stared right back. Both males continued to stare each other down. Suddenly Itachi's voice shattered the silence.
"Number 18, 56, and 82 get out…" the man ordered.
Naruto's eye widened.
"How did he-"
"What! We haven't done anything?" one of the genin protested.
"Get out before I remove you personally-" he enhanced his threat by drawing a kunai.
Instantly the three Konoha genin ran from the room. Naruto grabbed his head, a slight pain poking at the back, and sighed. This stupid exam was becoming more troublesome. A short heated glare shot at the Uchiha before Naruto began to answer the questions. Well he attempted to. Each question varied in sentence structure and length, but threw him for a loop was the fact that the questions appeared too easy. Upon further inspection of the paper, Naruto instantly sensed something was off. Normally these exams would have been printed due to the sheer number of contestants, but ink did not settle upon the paper like it was now. It was almost if the exams had been hand written.
"Hmmm…. What would make them hand-write these?"
It was this thought that led to him folding the test in half. After unfurling the paper, the crease was not visible. Nothing had changed on its surface.
"Look underneath, the underneath…" Kakashi's trademark phrase entered his mind.
"Genjutsu…" the boy deduced.
Nervous sweat gathered upon his brow as he focused a tiny bit of chakra to his finger. Milliseconds later, the letters began to shift around the page. The questions looked readable now.
"Alright! Now to get this dumb test over!" the blond cheered then face palmed.
Question 1: What was the Third Raikage known for? The questions continued on in a similar fashion, each rising in difficulty. Eighty percent of the questions had to do with the village of Kumogakure, the last two questions had to deal with a common knowledge of any shinobi.
No wonder he was sitting next to a Kumo nin. Itachi had literally chosen who every contestant was to sit by. This allowed the individual a chance to get the information needed. However, this was only possible if each person figured out there was a genjutsu on the paper. Then again, he would have to find some way to communicate with the lovely young woman beside him. A quick glance at her paper gave him the indication she had dispelled the genjutsu too. While he had scanned her paper, Naruto realized that her questions pertained to Konoha.
"Kageshin?"
{Yes Naruto?}
"Is there any way you can send a message to the kunoichi beside me? I know you are made of my blood, so can you form words?"
{Truth be told, I have never tried that. But in order for it to work, I need you to create a cut so I can control the blood flow. What would you like to convey?}
"Equivalent exchange…"
{I will do my best…}
Naruto used his thumbnail to make a small insertion on his palm. The crimson liquid slithered down his hand and onto the forearm. It slowly made its way under the desk and then traveled over to the Kumo kunoichi. Upon reaching the necessary spot, blood rounded the edge and began to form words. She caught the movement in the edge of her sight and looked down.
"Equivalent exchange? Who is…" she began before catching another slight movement in the corner of her eye.
Glancing over at Naruto, she saw a miniscule trail of blood running from the boy's limb. She responded with a tiny nod. Suddenly, a chuunin with a feral appearance began to sniff the air. The female ninja walked up to Itachi and told him about the smell.
"There's blood in the air." Whispered the chuunin.
"Hmmm…" Itachi's monotone voice drone.
Apparently Aiyoku had heard the comment and raised her hand.
"Um Proctor-san?" her sweet voice split the silence.
"Yes, Arashi-san?" Itachi remarked after looking at the participant papers.
"I need to use the bathroom."
"Can you hold it? The test should be over soon?" he countered.
"Umm…it's not something like that…" she bowed her head in embarrassment.
A tension-filled silence claimed the room. After a minute, Itachi broke it with a simple statement.
"Ah…" the Uchiha deadpanned.
Almost every woman smacked their heads at the male's small lapse into stupidity. A female chuunin went over to the girl's row and led her outside. Ten minutes later she returned. Thanks to all the chairs in the way, the kunoichi was stumbling a bit to get back to her seat. When she finally did reach her place, a chair leg tripped the young woman. Luckily for her Naruto was quick to catch her. Well at least he attempted to. She ended up collapsing upon the boys lap. Naruto blushed as she slid a piece of paper underneath his thigh. A blush crept onto the blond's face as she slowly lifted her gaze to his. The room's occupants' attention all collected on the pair as they were frozen in place. Aiyoku heavily blushed upon seeing everyone staring. Naruto was, more than anyone else. Well who wouldn't when the female had her abundant cleavage inches from your face?
"Iyaaa!" a melodic voice rang in everyone's ears. "I'm so clumsy sometimes."
Cue sweat-drop. Itachi looked at the young woman with his ever-present deadpan expression.
"Get back to the exam before I deduct two points from everyone." the proctor bellowed.
Naruto instantly helped her back up, all-the-while slipping a paper into hand. However, as her mouth passed his ear, she whispered.
"Liking what you see Naruto-kun?" she huskily breathed.
A deeper crimson adorned his face now. He had been caught.
"Gomen…" Naruto whispered back.
"Don't apologize, just take responsibility. You owe me diner shinobi-san."
A sigh escaped his mouth. The male had no way out of it.
"Equivalent exchange?" a chuckle following the statement.
"Exactly."
Distractions out of the way, the exam resumed without a hitch. Every five or so minutes, a team's numbers were called out and genin left. Some even cried! After seventy percent of the room was vacant, Itachi cleared his throat, gaining everyone's attention.
"Pencils down." After a quick glance around the room, "Only ten teams left…disappointing. Those of you who are left have passed the first section. Congratulations are in order." Itachi stated in his normal monotone voice.
Confusion spread throughout the genin at the man's statement. Itachi, seeing said bewilderment, tried to answer their unasked questions.
"Chuunin take on missions that will not always possess all the necessary information to complete their objectives. It is up to them to obtain that information as accurately and stealthily as possible. Sometimes, false information will be present and it is the responsibility of the chuunin to make a wise decision. The fact that you made it through this first section is proof of your prowess. All of you were placed strategically so that you had some way to obtain the necessary information. Though, that is only IF you got pass the genjutsu first."
The chuunin helpers then began to collect the exams. Once they were all collected, Itachi grabbed them and chakra visibly covered the papers.
"There, now that you all have passed, you might as well know that the second portion will commence tomorrow at noon. I will now let you proctor introduce himself."
Five minutes passed and no one showed up.
"I have a bad feeling about this…" Naruto commented mentally.
Ten more minutes crawled by, and still no one appeared before the attendees. Seeing this as an opportunity Aiyoku turned to the male beside her.
"So Naruto-kun, about out date-" she stated, emphasizing the last word.
"Where and when should I pick you up Arashi-san?"
"There is no need to refer to me like that. After what you've seen," the woman winked suggestively, "there should be no need for formalities."
"H-hai…"
"My team and I are staying at the Golden Forest Resort. My room number is 419. You can pick me up at 8:23."
A confused expression crossed the boy's face. Eight twenty-three? What kind of person would want to be picked up at such a strange time? A melodious giggle rang in his ears from the female.
"I'm not one for such cliché times and occurrences. Do well to remember that Naruto-kun."
He shared a short laugh with her before he replied back.
"I will do my best. 8:23 it is."
A small amount a killing intent was felt by the blond. Using his peripheral vision, Naruto spotted a black-haired ninja glaring daggers at him.
"Do not worry about him Naruto-kun." Aiyoku whispered. "He is a childhood friend and has always been over-protective of me. Try to pay him no mind, but expect to get the 'talk' when you come for me."
'The Talk' was something Naruto was very familiar with. Kakashi and Rin had been very gracious about sharing their stories on their personal experiences with it. Actually it was something Naruto had even rehearsed thousands of times for when/if Kurenai ever found a man worth her attentions. Once again turning his sight back to the woman, he nodded in understanding.
"I will make sure he has nothing to fear from me."
The two lightly conversed for another fifteen minutes before Itachi decided to send everyone away.
"Since it is obvious that your proctor will not be here in the near future, I will let your sensei know where the next portion of the exam with be taking place." Itachi droned.
Every chuunin-hopeful left the room, excluding Konoha's Team Ten and the Kumo team. Aiyoku's over-protective friend basically materialized beside the young woman.
"Is there a problem Aiyoku…" he glared directly at Naruto not even glancing at his teammate.
The blond rose from his seat and slightly towered over the other male. Crossing his arms, Naruto stared emotionlessly back.
"Stand down Katai." She commanded. "Naruto-kun is not threat."
A growl escaped the now named Katai as he begrudgingly stepped back. Suddenly smoke filled the room. Coughing was heard in the cloud of smoke. Kakashi lazy form greeted the few remain occupants of the room.
"Oh bother…am I late?" the cyclopean jounin questioned scratching the back of his head.
Not one person dignified his question with a response. They merely evacuated the room; leaving Itachi and the late arrival alone.
"I even told you five hours early…" Itachi droned before leaving in a swirl of leaves.
"Rin is going to kick my a-"
"HATAKE!" a womanly voice roared across Konoha.
"Ah crap…"
-With Naruto and Company-
Team Ten and the Kumo team walked in relative silence. Aiyoku was walking closely to Naruto's side. Every move was being inspected.
{Either she is checking you out or she is trying to form an analysis of your skills.} Tenshu commented.
"What do you mean?"
{A lot can be derived merely from how someone carries themself.}
"Really? Can you explain more?"
{Alright…take a look at that girl's overprotective friend.}
Naruto glanced at Katai out of the corner of his eyes. No one noticed that the blond's left eye turned to a silver hue.
{He is left-handed, he does NOT like your closeness to his teammate, ninjutsu is his main source of attack, and he has killed before.}
"W-w-what? How do you know that?"
{The calluses on his left hand are thicker and more abundant.} Kageshin commented.
{His left foot is hitting the ground a little harder than the right. Katai is ready to spring at you if you do anything he does not like to HIS woman.} Mitsukai added with emphasis giggling in the process.
{Not only that, but his chakra stores are too large to be easily manipulated for genjutsu.} Tenshu finished.
"The innocence in his eyes are gone. I see what you mean Tenshu. I will be wary of him during the remainder of this exam."
{Good, now pay attention you are at the entrance to the Golden Leaf Resort.}
Naruto's eye returned to normal as he did a short bow and bid farewell to the Kumo team. Aikyoku and the third teammate returned the courteous gesture. Katai continued to glare at the blond genin.
"Tenten…Lee…Meet at our normal training ground. Sensei is probably waiting for us"
"YOSH!" Lee yelled running off into the distance.
The taijutsu-nut's screams of Youth slowly died out. A sigh escaped the only female member of Team Ten. She soon walked off towards the aforementioned training ground. After Naruto turned around a sultry voice called after him.
"Naruto-kun…don't forget about tonight."
"Oh, believe me, I couldn't possibly forget about it." Naruto called back before disappearing.
"Stay away from him Aiyoku-hime…he is bad news." Katai spat.
"I don't think I can. This man has peeked my interest." A mischievous smile graced her lips.
-With Team Ten-
Once Gai had informed the genin on the location of the second portion, Naruto instantly disappeared. After all, the male had a date to get ready for. On his way home, Kakashi unintentionally blocked his path; the ever-present porn book in his hand.
"Oi! Kakashi," Naruto sighed.
"Oh! Naruto, what a surprise." A familiar eye-smile shone on the Jounin's countenance.
"Quick question: What is meant by a cliché date?"
"Hmmm…" a hand rubbed his chin in thought "I would say arriving early, with flowers, dressed in your best, going to a romantic/candle-lit diner, a walk thru the park, and dropping her off at her door. Why do you ask?"
"I was curious as to what someone I met meant by it."
"Does Naru-chan have a date tonight?" Kakashi giggled perversely.
Naruto hid the blush on his face as best as he could.
"Stupid perverts…" the blond stated before jumping towards his apartment.
-8 O' Clock-
Naruto paced nervously in his apartment. Should he leave now? Did he dress well enough? So many questions fluttered throughout his mind.
{Naruto-sama} Mitsukai cooed, {Calm down. Just leave now, pick something up for her, and wait outside the resort until it is time.}
A heavy sigh passed his lips as he calmed himself.
"Alright. Thanks Mitsu-chan."
{Iyaaa! Thank me more.}
Naruto sighed at the scythe's antics. Locking the door on the way out, the blond strolled into the brisk night. Five minutes of walking gave him enough time to clear his mind. He stopped two times before reaching the resort. According to the giant clock on the front of the Golden Leaf Resort, the time was currently 8:20.
"Alright…419 should be on this side of the building."
Judging by the distance to her window, Naruto had quite a leap to perform. A burst of chakra signified his jump. He had reached the third floor on the first jump. Sticking to the side of the building, he contemplated which window was Aiyoku's.
"Well that should be 401…403…415…Ah! 419."
With one more jump landed on the small balcony of 419's room. Naruto tapped on the patio door and waited patiently. The door slid open and a young woman's head popped out.
"Ah! Naruto-kun." She cheered sweetly. "This is a surprise. I was waiting for you at the door."
Both shared a laugh. Naruto relaxed, his nervousness long gone. Something about this girl made him feel well..secure around her.
"You are definitely doing well with this non-cliché date."
"Well then Aiyoku-chan, shall we?" he offered her his hand.
She gratefully accepted, but did not expect to be picked up bridal style. With her in tow, Naruto jumped from the balcony. Landing quietly on the ground, the male placed his 'cargo' gently on the earth.
"My! What a gentlemen." She giggled.
Before they walked off, Naruto handed her a coat. It was now he took in his date's attire. Her hair was down from its high ponytail; cascading down her back and shoulders. Nearly a third of her face was hidden by the long bangs. She wore a light purple lipstick and a dark blue eye-shadow. Her dress, similar to her ninja gear, was a simple, form-fitting, Chinese dress. This one, however, was midnight blue in color. It was sleeveless and revealed a lot less cleavage than her normal battle attire. The slits in her dress stopped around the middle of her calf/shin. Regular ninja sandals covered her delicate feet.
"Where are we going Naruto-kun?"
"Hmmm… truth be told, I haven't thought that far ahead." He laughed lightly.
Aiyoku's sweet giggle caressed his eardrums.
"This is definitely already a one-of-a-kind date."
"I take it that men ask you out a lot then." He countered with a smirk.
"That's for me to know and you to find out." She answered with a wink.
The two walked for eighteen minutes before Naruto spotted the location for the date. Akimichi's Grand Restaurant stood tall over the two ninja. Naruto had been here only a few times, but every occasion filled him with warmth and delicious food.
"Would you like to eat here Aiyoku-chan?"
"Um…"
"The Akimichi clan is known throughout the shinobi nations for their culinary abilities. I have been here a few times. They use only the best ingredients. Every single menu item aims to fit the customer's specific make up. The experience is unique."
"Lead the way!" she ordered, dragging the male forward.
Upon entering the establishment, the couple was quickly greeted and ushered to a booth. Aiyoku glanced at Naruto, who was illuminated by the over-head light. It was only at this time that the young female gazed upon the attire of her date. Blue jeans hand loosely around his waist. His torso was covered by a simple black, button-up shirt. Nothing tamed the wild mass of blond locks. All in all, Aiyoku consented that Naruto cleaned up very well.
"Excuse me," a heavy-set waitress broke the silence. "Have you two decided upon your meal tonight?"
"Yes, I would like the steak sukiyaki." Naruto stated before outstretching his hand.
The waitress then proceeded to take it in hers, closed her eyes, and appeared to be meditating. After five seconds, the large woman scribbled a few things down.
"I see you are still eating well Uzumaki-san." A gentle smile spread upon her features.
His date quirked her brow at the exchange.
"I try my best Akamichi-san."
Expectantly, the waitress turned to Aiyoku.
"I would like the onigiri platter." The Kumo ninja ordered.
After writing down the order, the older woman put out her hand.
"Give her your hand Aiyoku-chan." Naruto smirked at the confusion clearly visible on her face.
"It's okay Honey," Akimichi offered another smile. "I don't bite."
Naruto chuckled lightly as she finally placed her hand within the waitress's. Repeating the same process from earlier, the special notes were placed on the notepad, and she then disappeared into the kitchen.
"What was that all about?" the young lady questioned.
"The Akimichi clan has a strange ability. By touching a person's body, they can determine if the body is in optimal condition. Basically a clan member can sense if maybe there is a toxin in your muscles that might cause you to cramp up. Using this ability, a person's food is cooked using specific ingredients to tailor to these 'malfunctions' within."
"That is an extraordinary ability."
"And very beneficial to anyone who consumes the cook's concoctions."
Ten minutes trudged onward, only small-talk sedating the silence.
"Will my food taste weird?" Aiyoku inquired nervously.
Naruto chuckled before answering.
"Not at all! In fact, there has yet to be a complaint since the founding of this restaurant."
"How long ago was that?"
"Shortly after the founding of Konoha!" a gentle voice interrupted.
"Ah! Food!" Naruto chorused as his food was placed before him.
The big waitress laughed at the boy's antics.
"There is never a dull moment around you Uzumaki-san."
After leaving the couple, both ninja dug in with a restrained fervor. Not a lot happened within the time it took to finish the meal and pay. Naruto just talked about some of neat places of interest within Konoha, and Aiyoku described some of the dates she had been on.
"-that wasn't the worst part though." She commented while holding in her laughter. "He got me black roses, because they matched my dress."
"Wow!" Naruto chuckled while he walked along side his date.
"So do you have any past dating experiences?"
An innocent question, but one that left the blond contemplating.
"I'm not sure I can say that I have."
The Kumo kunoichi looked at him as if he had grown a second head.
"What?"
"Well you fooled me Naruto-kun." She smiled sweetly.
By this time, the two ninja had arrived at the Golden Lead Resort. Heading up the stairs, to the third floor, Naruto escorted her to room 419. Aiyoku absentmindedly searched for her room key. After finding the elusive item, she turned her attention to the blond male.
"I must say Naruto-kun. That might have been the most non-cliché date I have ever had." She giggled lightly.
"I am glad you enjoyed it. Until next time, Good night Aiyoku-chan."
The young woman unlocked her door and crossed the threshold. With one more glance over her shoulder, she stated one last thing.
"I look forward to our next encounter."
Naruto noticed a glint in her eye as she stealthily slipped into her room. It was partially mischievous and possessed a hint of something he could not quite identify.
"What do you think Kageshin, Tenshu, Mitsukai?"
{She will be a difficult opponent if you face her.} Tenshu flatly stated.
{I second Tenshu's assessment. Just the way she carried herself, gave off the impression of an experienced fighter. Also there is something about her that makes me uneasy.}
"What gave you that idea?"
{I don't know about you, but I felt TOO comfortable around her. Especially when she is from a village that has been bitter enemies for decades.}
"I see your point Kageshin. I will be more wary of her."
{That woman better think twice before trying to seduce Naruto-sama!} the scythe bellowed.
"WHAT!" Naruto questioned. "How did you determine that?"
{Call it a Woman's Intuition.}
Naruto sighed before leaving. However, he failed to notice the door behind him was slightly ajar.
"I told him to stay away from Hime…" a growl broke the spectator's train of speech. "I will paint the battlefield with his blood…"
Author: Woohoo! Over 9000 words! There you go peoples. Once again I apologize for my laziness and lack of updation. I have been forced to take off this next semester so I hopefully can work more on my story in my free time. After all, I don't have to do any 20-hour drawings. YES! Anyway, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE review. I cannot improve my writing abilities if I am not informed on how I can do better. But remember, if you do want to tell me something is wrong, do so in a respective manner. Now that that is done. I am off! Until next time, Ja Ne