Chapter 25. Preliminary Exam! Part one
Haru stare to Sasuke below in instant raising Kunai and blocking multiple shurikens that launched by Yoroi the moment the battle declared to begin.
He aware Sasuke can't use Chakra, not with that Cursed Seal on his neck. According to his memory, Yoroi actually formidable foe, he and his friend give quite trouble to Anko when she and Naruto in mission where that... Fish girl? Isarabi? Or is that Isabella?
Doesn't matter, such things is not his problem. But in that arc, Yoroi proved to be quite bothersome enemy. Compared him in that arc and the one in Chūnin exam arc won't be fair
'This could be troublesome...' Haru thought as his raven eyes peer down at the battle
However much to his relief, the battle went exactly like in Canon where Sasuke declared as the winner where he end the battle with Shishirendan (Lion Combo). It seems Yoroi really not that good, it looks like he overestimate himself and got kicked in ass in the end. Or, he train himself so hard after Sasuke got him which resulted he become stronger in that Isabella girl arc
Whichever it is doesn't matter anyway for him
He see Kakashi instantly appear behind Sasuke who exhausted, the masked Jōnin seems muttering about something to him. Sasuke eyes flashed to his direction make Haru inwardly blinked, but it just for moment before he mutter something back to Kakashi. The Jōnin then proceed by gripping his shoulder and with 'poof' and white smoke, they disappear
"That was pretty intense..." Hinata murmured from his side, worry evident in her voice
"You could say so." Haru grunted in agreement, he briefly wonder why Sasuke look at his direction. It seems the Uchiha really wish to speak to him 'It just mean that his loyalty to me very high, probably bigger than anyone else.' He thought with obvious mirth
Despite many things he had done, in reality Haru never wish to change Canon. No... He knew if he change things so much it will be dangerous, he maybe have full knowledge of this World but this World is sentient. People like Danzo, Orochimaru and everyone is real, they are more experienced than him, more cunning and more dangerous
No matter how he train himself, but Haru knew people like Orochimaru and Danzo is someone he should be wary and fear. Not just they older than him -in previous life and now, even if the ages combined-, but they also has live longer in this Hell World and survive
The only advantage he get above them, is he knew the storyline. And he will be damned if he throw that away. No matter what, he try his best to make everything went similar like Canon
Why he should change many things if he can just pluck out mony advantage from them without working?
He need to lay low... Yes... After what happen with Hiruzen he need to lay low once again, though it maybe too late but at least late is better than never
'Or... I could make sure I get as many attention as possible and use them to cover me...' He thought as he spare brief glance to Naruto. One of the reason he sure Danzo never after him until now is because he with Naruto, and Hiruzen very, very favoring Naruto, thus as his best and veeery close friend and brother in all but blood, Hiruzen also protect him
But soon Hiruzen will dead... And that while good thing, but at same time also bad thing
Haru quite like Hiruzen actually, the old man truly someone he respected. He is the first Kage without any bloodline that receive title God of Shinobi, a title that only shared by Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki and Hashirama Senju, he also lead Konoha through Two Great Shinobi War and not just he survive but he make the village as the damn winner
If that is not something then he clearly doesn't know what else is it
Haru sure he will be sad when Hiruzen dead, he will cry in fact, but it was necessary. For his plan to work, just like what happen to Shisui, a sad and terrible things but it necessary for his plan
'I just hope I have the stomach to handle it when time come... Things is so much simple when I thought them as anime character but when I live with them...'
"Uh-oh..."
Naruto voice broke Haru out from his mind, it was then he realize the next fight already set. He see the name in the board and grimaced slightly
Tenten
VS
Haku Yuki
'Bad match up... Tenten certainly will lose no matter how good she is, Haku raised by Zabuza ever since she child after all.' Haru thought as he see Haku and Tenten walking down. The match already set, he knew that, Haku is Genin only in name, she could be considered as Chūnin or Tokubetsu Jōnin already in fact with her skill 'And this result also proved that the match won't be like Canon... Wonder who will be my enemy... As long it not Gaara.'
He didn't fear the boy... Okay he admit he quite afraid to him. If there one thing is sure, no one wish to fight crazy man, even if said the crazy man much weaker because it stupid thing and also troubling as well. Haru not afraid to Gaara power, no, he afraid to his psychotic nature
Fighting against powerful man is one thing, but fighting against rabid and powerful man is something else. Even rabid dog could be more dangerous than Lion in some case
'I could match anyone sans Gaara... So what I should think is, what would I do if I going to face him? Hmmm... Decision, decision, decision...'
He glanced to the red haired Jinchuuriki. He going to need him obviously in future, so killing him is big no. However if he face him, he can't afford to lose. He have to become Chūnin, he must have. He doesn't wish to follow the exam of Pre-Shippuden time, he only know a little about that exam and he hate something he doesn't know
Knowledge is Power after all
'Well... If I destined to fight Gaara... Then I guess I could be the one who bring him back to 'Light'. His status as future Kazekage and loyalty will be very useful after all...'
Haku stare at Tenten, her face set into polite smile. Tenten also have same expression
"Second match, Haku Yuki vs Tenten. Are there any objections to this match?" Hayate asked as he glanced between the two girls
"No."
"Nope."
"Very well... The second match, Tenten versus Haku Yuki begin!"
As soon Hayate swung down his hand, Tenten jumped back, flipping in proceed doing that and slip three kunai to her fingers. The moment she finish creating distance, she throw the star shaped knife in instant
Haku who did nothing in begin bending her body slightly, allowing the projectiles to pass through her. She slip pair of senbons to her fingers and throw it
Unlike all projectiles, despite senbon is weak and only used for medic, it also very effective to kill in hand of professional. It not large, their small size allow it to hard to be seen, a quite stealthy weapon and a clean strike from them to few area will be resulted very fatal
And Haku has raised from child to wield such weapon, add the fact the one that raise her is not beginner, but one could be called expert, she very proficient handling it.
Her throw were elegance and stealthy, just like always she use it and had her enemy is normal Genin, they won't even aware it struck them. However, Tenten is not, she is kunoichi who expert in handling shinobi tools, it was her specialize, her level in that aspect even enough to surpass normal Chūnin
Tenten twisting her body, another pairs of shuriken already slipped between her fingers once again when she dodge the attack. She throwing it in instant she dodge Haku senbons, at same time, she dashed and also tucked her other arms in instant and make pulling motion
Haku dodge it again by bending her body, however her eyes caught small, and almost unseen strings in the air. Instantly knowing what is it for, she ducked just in time to dodge a pair of shuriken that first throwed come back to her. However when she ducked, Tenten already close enough, a wakizashi in her hand and she not even show any sign of hesitation to swing it down
It just few centimeters away from her face, however before it touch or harm her, Haku gone in blur, letting the short slice nothing but empty space
Tenten eyes widened, she doesn't have time to think what just happen before pain struck her head from her side. She feel her body hurled away, it was not strong enough to make her feel so much pain to the point she can't imbalance herself though. Straightening her body, she spin in air and landed on her four limbs, glaring at Haku who now rushed to her with fast
'She fast!' Tenten thought as she quickly stand again, raising her wakizashi. Not as fast as Lee when removing his weight, but this kunoichi certainly good, not like the one who playing Ninja in her early age
Steel clashed against steel as Haku kunai meet Tenten wakizashi. There small pause as their eyes meet to each other before Tenten twist her body, delivering kick to Haku who jump away
Flipping in air, Haku throw the kunai down to Tenten. The twin bun haired girl dodge it, but when she did that, five senbons already close to where she stand. Raising her wakizashi, Tenten swat away the projectiles. She stare at at Haku who landed and watching her with analytic eyes
"You are Haru teammate huh?" Tenten asked as she eyeing the girl back with same look
"I am..." Haku admitted with nod
"Well..." Tenten let small smirk adorn her fact at that "No wonder you good in weapon, Haru quite good as well."
Haku blinked her eyes once, she smiled slightly and tilt her head a bit "I'm sorry to disappoint you Tenten-san, but Haru-san never teach me in my weapon skills."
Tenten in response blinked back, surprised expression crossed to her face "Really? Well, doesn't matter then." She twirl the wakizashi on her arm before grip it tightly "Let continue.." She grinned
In response, Haku merely raise one hand, forming a seal while her other hand raised to air, creating a familiar stance to Team 7 and Backup Team
"Kirigakure no Jutsu (Hidden in Mist Technique)" She muttered
Then, the air freeze
It was well known creating mist out of air was actually hard, even to Jōnin level ninja, only one with high affinity water element can do that. Proof that Zabuza always fight in wet area and splash the area where he fight
But to Haku? The one who can create ice from thin of air? The one who can create very strong ice that even held firm in face of hot fire? That wasn't hard, not at all.
The temperature of the tower dropped in instant. White mist formed from thin of air, slithering and crawling toward the floor and wall like a shadow that cover the bright earth and licking the air and empty space like flame, covering the one who control them with their form
Tenten eyes widened at the sight of mist that appear out of nowhere. She not wasting any time as she charging to Haku in instant so she not loss sight of her, she just few feets away but she not made it, Haku body devoured by the white mist when she close to her and gone from her sight
"Its over..." Haru commented aloud as he eyed the mist from balcony "Haku certainly stop playing around..."
Lee who hearing that feel small spark of indignation at the declaration of her friend being lose "Not yet! Tenten still could make it!" He declared
In response, Haku only shook his head "I knew Tenten-sempai is good, very good in fact, I admit that. But so do Haku, and with her eyesight sealed..." He trailed as he resuming to watch
"Nonetheless! Tenten had fight in situation like this." Gai come to support as he staring at the mist "She still can make it."
"I'm afraid I have to agree with Haru here."
Everyone near the conversation turned when hear familiar face, they all see Kakashi arrive via 'poof' of white smoke
"Kakashi-sensei!" Naruto greeted in instant with grin Lyou back!"
"Sensei... How Sasuke-kun?" Sakura asked, worry in her face as she thinking about her teammate
"Sasuke is fine..." Kakashi replied in reassuring tone "Right now he resting in hospital." He said as he already had seal the mark 'Though, he now protected by ANBU.' He thought. After meeting with Orochimaru, he not wishing to leave Sasuke alone, that man is dangerous and he don't want to take a risk
Haru meanwhile only put fake concern expression but after hearing Kakashi said Sasuke in hospital he change it to fake relief and he relaxed his muscle slightly to make sure people see it as sign of relieve
He knew Orochimaru follow the silver haired Jōnin somehow. The Oto Jōnin that act as Dosu team teacher still in here actually, which mean there no Orochimaru in disguise. That actually make sense, there no way Hiruzen won't recognize Orochimaru if he that close
'Well... It seems... Not everything went like in Canon. Which mean Orochimaru probably around here but not in this hall. Though he probably already leaving now.'
Tenten cursed as she see the enemy disappear, the mist was thick, undoubtedly thick. True people still able to see through it but it was hard, very hard! And what's more, the pace of the mist still increase
'But I'm not the only one who can't see... Calm down Tenten, you-'
She let out scream of pain as something lodged to her shoulder, she briefly glanced and see three senbons lodged to it, making her eyes widened
'With Senbon in her arsenal and the way she throw it... Damn, this is bad...'
Quickly, she pull out four kunais, all of them latched by explosive tag. She jumped, pumping Chakra to her leg as many as she could in order to strengthen her feet and bring her higher so she could get better view
But when she in air, eight senbons launched to her. She raise two of kunai with explosive tage she hold, blocking the projectiles but two able to sneak id and stab her right thigh
Bitting down scream that threatened to come out, she throw the four kunais to different direction. She didn't need them to touch the ground, not long she thrown them, she make hand seal and detonate them
Like she predict, the force of the wind that created by the explosion swipe away the mist from the ground. Seeing this Tenten allow small smirk adorn her face but it quickly gone when she notice her enemy wasn't there
'What?! Where is-'
"I'm here..."
A voice come from her above make Tenten twist her body to look up and just in time to see Haku toe smacked to her chest painfully
Tenten let out grunt that turned to cough of blood when her back hit the ground. It hurt, however she is part of team Gai, pain is something that not foreign to her. The moment she hit the ground, she put all strength she have to roll her body back, she can't let her enemy get advantage!
She would succeed had three pair of senbons touch her bare neck and ready to pierce her flesh, threatening her to move
Haku stare down at Tenten who laying in ground, she crouched and looming over her while pressing the senbons slightly to her throat, drawing trickle of blood from it
"Give up..." Haku stated
Seeing this, Tenten only could nod weakly, the pain of falling still there and her eyes quite blurry due to that
Hayate who watching not need any confirmation, he had see everything the moment Haku smash her toe to Tenten chest. Raising her hand to Haku direction, he declared "Winner of second match, Haku Yuki!"
Haru in balcony let small smirk adorn his face as he stare at the result of the fight. He tempted to boast his teammate loudly but shut it down, his smirk gone and set into small smile instead, he must act subtle after all
Yakumo meanwhile not
"Hmph!" Yakumo grunted in haughty voice "As expected from Haku." She said, smirking while staring at Haku "There no way she will beaten by mere ninja tools."
Haru caught small flash of annoyance in Lee eyes and inwardly sighed. Well, Yakumo quite perfectionist after all seeing she raised as Heiress and things like that. Though, she did that because she also try to cover her weakness, despite she behaved strong and haughty, but deep inside she only a girl that try to prove herself
'Just like Naruto...' Haru thought with small sigh "Maa, Yakumo not need to said things like that. Tenten quite good too you know, I dare say she quite kunoichi, I had small fight with her after all." He chided lightly "It just her luck she ran to Haku."
Yakumo quirked her eyebrow at that, but slowly she give nod along with grunt
"I-I think Tenten-san also strong as well." Hinata added as she get closer to Haru slightly. She knew who Haku really is from Haru and Naruto story, the twin bun haired girl actually good but sadly, Haku is something else
"No one ask you Hyūga." Yakumo replied in stony tone
Hinata narrowed her pale eyes at that before her face set into small frown "I'm t-talking with H-Haru-kun." She retorted
Haru face set into 'The hell you bring me into?!' expression hearing the conversation
Naruto face scrunched to amused at this, Sakura also cover her mouth to stiffle giggle that escape from her lip, so do Shino -though his unseen due to his high collar shirt-. The other Jōnin who near also have their own expression
"Ah... Young Love..." Gai spoke loudly "Your flame of youth blazing with radiant!" He said while grinning and give thumb up
'Of all thing he could said!' Haru yelled in frustration at Gai remark, he really wish to deck the man thick eyebrow and shave it! He already have hard time to pretend oblivious at Hinata feeling! This comment clearly not helping
Quickly respond to make anyone not skeptical or suspicious, Haru rolled his eyes in attempt to make he looks like exasperated "Please Maito-sensei... We were twelve, what kind of love we have?" He snorted slightly and mentally pat his back on the act
He notice Hinata stiffened slightly and Yakumo merely huffed her cheeks at his remark
"Ah! Haru-kun! Call me Gai-sensei! I'm not that old! One can't underestimated the power of Love!" Gai replied with serious look "Love can blossom at any time and anywhere! Ages is doesn't matter! If you love someone! Love her to the max!"
"I think you talking about different love." Haru remarked dully, eliciting snicker from Naruto "And yeah, perhaps Gai-sensei better. You doesn't have any white hair after all." He added as he look up, down to Gai form
Kakashi eyebrow twitched, his Jōnin colleague let out snort and snicker at Haku words, he instinctly rub his hair "Maa. Haru, are you talking about me?" He said, giving the boy small glare with his lone eye
"Huh?" Haru turned to him with innocent face before his eyes widen slightly "Ah! No, I'm sorry if you offended Kakashi-san!" He said in apologetic manner
Inwardly he laugh at Kakashi one eye that twitched, he just insult him more and get away with it! Ahh, being manipulative could be feel so good sometime
Before Kakashi could reply, sounds of Haku footstep heard by them. Haru instantly turned to her in order to change the conversation, he don't wish to debate further, not if he already win
"Haku! Congratulation! I knew you will win!" Haru praised with big grin
"That's good show Haku.." Yakumo added with nod of respect
Haku in response smiled to him kindly "Thank you everyone." She said in genuine tone
In response, Haru merely give pat on her back "I expect no less from you! With this, one of our team is surely going to become Chūnin!" He praised
Haku blushed slightly under the praise and Haru smirked inwardly. It not like he try to woo her, but Haku is someone who have Servant complex, she has been so long thinking of herself as a tool rather than living being
Giving her attention and praising her is the best thing to do, she quite similar like Naruto, a boy who abandoned and seeking for purpose. Haru could play that, it to ensure Haku stay loyal to him, at same time also show that Haru really good guy and someone who has no ill intent toward her
Well... He don't have any ill intent actually, but if she dead tomorrow or next five minutes Haru only going to shed fake tears and lamenting inwardly that he loss such great weapon
What? He never said he's good guy! His intent even quite malicious!
"Thank you Haru-san." Haku said in slight demure voice
"Anytime! You are my friends after all!" Haru replied
Meanwhile everyone who watched have different reaction. Naruto was glad that Haru be kind to Haku, seeing the girl actually similar like him he happy that she now found someone precious other than Zabuza. Yakumo quirked eyebrow at the blush that appear on Haku face but decide to ignore it, she knew Haku harbor no feeling to him
Hinata meanwhile tilted her head slightly, a small scowl placed on her face. She actually don't know about Haku, save for she is rogue kunoichi that befriend with Naruto, and seeing she not bad or desire to revenge her comrade, she accepted. It not like everyone not willing to share her the true story, but Haku has her own privacy as well
The Jōnin only watch the scene with amusement. Kurenai spare small glance to Hinata though, worrying about her. Kakashi only giggled while Genma smirked
It was then they heard sound of 'DING!', indicating the projector has been set once again.
Naruto Uzumaki
VS
Zaku Abumi
'Another different pair...' Haru thought with raised eyebrow 'This is the third match already, hmmm... Wonder when my turn..' He glanced to Naruto who shouted in enthusiasm "Good luck Naruto!"
"Of course I will!" Naruto replied in confident manner as he jump down from the balcony
"W-Will he be okay?" Hinata asked in concern
"Naruto is strong Hinata." Sakura surprisingly the one who come to support "I had see him fight and he also keep continue his training... He will be okay."
"If Naruto lose against him, I going to train him for full a month." Haru added "And I will be harsh... Oh yeah, veeery harsh." He said with small smirk and gleam on his eyes
Yakumo who close to him shudder a bit she still remember how harsh Haru actually in training someone
Naruto stare at Zaku who sneered at him. Despite his enthusiasm but there anger hidden in his eyes. He had heard what did this guy do to Sakura and his friends few days ago after their encounter with Orochimaru
"I'm going to finish what I did in forest before." Zaku smirked cruelly "That boy is not going to save you now. I will deal with him after I finish with you."
"How funny." Naruto replied back in sarcasm "If I recall, my friends told me you went down just by single hit from Haru." He retorted. He grinning in glee at Zaku face who curled to snarl
"Began the match!" Zaku demanded, anger visible on his voice
"The third match, Naruto Uzumaki versus Zaku Abumi. Began!" Hayate declared as he instantly jumped away to avoid get caught in the battle
Zaku in instant launched himself to Naruto, kunai on his arm and he throw it to the blonde Genin. Naruto bended his body and doge it, in quick he thrust his hand, grabbing Zaku fist that aimed to his face and he pivoted his leg, throwing the Oto Genin over his shoulder
Zaku smirked, as he hurled in air, he twist his body in air, one palm opened and aimed to Naruto "Zankūha! (Decapitating Airwaves)"
A burst of torrent airwave explode from the tube on his palm, launching to Naruto who just thrown Zaku. Cursing, Naruto put strength on his legs and jump as far as he can, barely avoiding the attack. Quickly he rolling to the ground, slipped kunai on his hand
'Wind jutsu type eh? And arrogant one too just like that Teme... Feh...'
If there one thing Naruto good enough other than stealth, is he learn fast. He maybe not smart in book or such thing, but he learn very fast through experience
In Canon universe, Naruto would be having hard time had he fight Zaku in preliminary. It because his seal has been tampered by Orochimaru and he has no experience against fighter with long range like Zaku, add the fact he also not trained properly because he grow alone
But in here? That doesn't happen
In here, Naruto arrive faster than the original, it him have time to talk with Hiruzen who visiting due to wish to see Sasuke Cursed Seal. Gogyō Fūin (Five Elements Seal) is something that Hiruzen knew how to handle, with that Naruto Chakra that tampered fixed. And in here, Naruto not alone, he train with Haru and Sasuke properly, he not alone like his counterpart
Thus, this Naruto is stronger and in better condition to fight with Zaku
Forming familiar hand seal, Naruto run to Zaku "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu! (Shadow Clone Techniqu)" with poof of smoke, six Narutos appear around him, each of them holding kunai and rush toward the Oto Genin
"You think numbers going to save you?!" Zaku aim both his palms to Naruto direction and another airwaves roared to live.
Two of Narutos clone perform hand seal, they cocked back their heads before hurled it forward ""Fūton : Daitoppa! (Wind release: Great Breakthrough)"" They yelled
A gale of winds burst out from their mouth, they spew out in unison with same amount of power in order to make them balanced and not crashing to each other. It hurled toward the incoming airwaves and crashed
A large wave of air and kinetic force created the moment two gale of air pushing each other. The tower that build in middle of Forest of the Death by any mean is not normal one. It was harder, stronger, enchanted by note of Fūinjutsu that made by Seal Master, obviously it because the tower is placed in middle of Forest that filled with deadly animal
So even when the gale of wind roaring and trying to tore each other with force that capable to shred human into piece, it did not budge, not even crack were there
It wasn't hard to see that two of Narutos combined wind were more than enough to push Zaku back. The Oto Genin realize this, instantly he pumped more Chakra to the tube on his palm
The raging winds only last for few seconds before they dissipated to each other. Zaku then realize that the group of the Narutos already close enough, they all throw the kunais their hold
Zaku launch himself to aside, quickly he raise his hand again and this time he put as much Chakra he have in his palm and snarled "Zankūkyokuha! (Extreme Decapitating Airwaves)" He roared
The wind roared the moment Zaku declare the name of his technique. Comparing the first one he launched to this would be comparing lion to cat, this one is big, massive even. The amount of the airwaves that screaming in space now is so large, even it able to put countless scratch and graze to the ground of the tower that enchanted
Zaku watched with glee as the winds tore the group of Narutos apart, shredded them like knife slicing paper, tearing them apart. However suddenly he realize there something wrong
There only four Naruto
'Where is-'
Pain instantly erupted from back of his head as he feel something slammed with hard to it. He tried to move his body but when he did a fist hammer his stomach, make him gagged, then a sweep kick slide his feet from the ground
Naruto not show any mercy, he remember Sakura condition when he awake. He and his clone slam both their fists together to Zaku chest and planted the man firm to the ground, eliciting blood out from his mouth
Naruto clone instantly stomp to Zaku thigh, hard, hard enough to make sounds of bone snapped, making the Oto Genin scream. Naruto himself deliver punch to his chest once again, making the dark spiky haired teen gasped out another blood
"That, bastard, for hurting Sakura-chan." Naruto said angrily as his cold blue eyes peered down at Zaku beaten form
Naruto stand firm, he let out small pant as he turned to Hayate. The sick looking ninja walked toward him, when he arrive he place his fingers on Zaku neck and smirked slightly
"Winner! Naruto Uzumaki!"
The audience stare at the battle with silence, their eyes containing various expression, from respect, small horror and fear at the brutality Naruto display. The blonde boy clearly not holding back
Even Haru also show surprise look
"Wow..." Yakumo let out small voice as her eyes wide and stare at Naruto "That... That was..."
"Brutal?" Hinata voiced meekly, she also surprised slightly at Naruto behavior
"No..." Yakumo shook her head, then her eyes gleamed with something "I want to say romantic..."
At that everyone who hearing turn to her and give her look as if she just grow pair of extra arms and second head
Realizing the look Yakumo quirked her eyebrow "What? Don't you heard his declaration? "That, bastard, for hurting Sakura-chan". What else you going to say?" She asked with smirk
At that Sakura blushed when hear the proclamation. If Yakumo put it that way, it does quite romantic
Hearing this, Hinata face take understanding and she let out giggle slightly. The others also seems relaxed and the tension lessened
Save for Haru
'A thirteen years old boy just beating other boy and broken his bones, probably ruptured one of his lung and that's it? That's their only response?' He thought while shook his head 'Well... What can I say? The morality in here is difference than my previous World, even I also found it... Usual...' He stare at Naruto who flashing victory grin to everyone
"Naruto-kun really strong." Hinata murmured, small smile adorn her face
"Indeed..." Shino nodded in agreement "Add the fact his enemy also seems overconfident."
Haru meanwhile not make any comment, he solely focused to Naruto. He still remember how it goes when he train him. As much he hate to say, training Naruto is hard, very hard
Now he knew why he only use Kage Bunshin or Rasengan mostly through the movie. Truthfully, he was thinking perhaps Kishimoto is lazy ass and not creative person, which is true actually. But in here? It because Naruto Chakra are too much
Naruto is Chakra monster, a cannon, a bomb. It not like Haru don't want to teach Naruto many Jutsu but it because Naruto have too much Chakra. Even if Haru train him in Chakra control, it won't be useful because soon his Chakra will be increased when he growth
Daitoppa, is one of technique that only require small Chakra control and depend on the user Chakra mostly. This technique is one of Jutsu that good for Naruto, it doesn't need to be shaped or molded properly, it only need power, similar like Rasengan
'Thinking about it... All most Jinchuuriki mostly have destructive technique. No one have simple and very clean one, save for Bee of course, but that man is old, obviously has training to control his Chakra long enough, ever since he child perhaps and he also in good pattern with his Bijuu so I guess he's an exception...'
There aspect of Bijuu that reside within him as well. Perhaps Bee still can control his Chakra because he possess Hachibi. Naruto meanwhile have Kyuubi, a being that even only have half of his power could match three Bijuu at same time. Why monstrous creature like Kyuubi need to control his Chakra and mold it to elemental technique? The fox can let out wave of Chakra and destroy portion of forest with ease, what for element for such creature?
'Doesn't matter... That could be thinking later, for now.' Haru flashed grin to Naruto who approaching him "Good job Naruto!" He praised, everyone near him also give nod and smile of congratulation
"Of course! Hehehe! Thanks!" Naruto grinned, his eyes closed like fox "It not much challenge though!" He added. Its true, despite he not left unscathed -some airwaves manage to hit and scratch him- but it still quite easy fight. He distract the guy, then henge himself into kunai and allow himself thrown by his clone then ambush that bastard
Haru smirk a bit, it was quite good plan actually. Against someone who careful and experienced perhaps it won't work, but to Zaku who reckless and arrogance? Add the fact he quite blinded by anger due to Naruto taunt, it make him vulnerable
"You really have grown aren't you?" Haru spoke suddenly, his voice filled with strange tone, not bad one
Naruto blinked, taken back by sudden tone in Haru voice
"I still remember when we five years old. You even throw shuriken backward rather forward." Haru chuckled, he still remember the event, how Naruto able to do that is mystery
"Haruu!" Naruto whined in instant, he look embarrassed as few people snort, snicker or giggling hearing what the brown haired boy said
"It just like yesterday you know... I remember it clearly." Haru sighed while shook his head before he glanced at Naruto and smiled softly "But look at you now! Becoming Shinobi and now in Chūnin exam..." He grinned slightly and pat the boy head, Naruto still quite shorter from him "I really proud of you Naruto."
Naruto stare at Haru with wide eyes, he feel blood in his vein flowed faster for moment. Slowly, pink hue appear on his face and he let out sheepish foxy grin
"Hehehe... Thanks..."
'He really care to him huh?' Kakashi thought with fondness as he stare at Haru
Everyone who near also show small smile at the scene they see. It doesn't take genius to see that Haru truly love Naruto -not in that way-, the boy also not afraid to show his affection nor he try to hide it either, instead, he look proud of it
"Ahhh! Brother love!" Gai make dreamy sound, tears flow down from both his eyes "How beautiful! Wouldn't you agree Lee?"
Lee also have manly tears, followed by snot on his nose as he sniffed "Hai! Gai-sensei!"
"We can't afford to lose! Let show our special bonds as well! Lee!"
"Gai-sensei!"
"Lee!"
"Gai-sensei!"
"Lee!"
"Gai-sens-"
"Lee, is that your name?" Haru interfere quickly, Lee in instant turned his head and see the projector
Yakumo Kurama
VS
Kin Tsuchi
"Looks like it my turn..." Yakumo spoke, voice filled with mirth. She turned to Haru who smirked at the projector "Do you have any tips?"
Haru eyes narrowed hearing that, before he take thoughtful look "She genjutsu user as well." He said simply
The glee on Yakumo expression is visible as her face stretched to grin
"I see..." She purred slightly "Well, then see you later."
She jumped through the balcony and landed on the ground. Haru briefly glanced to Lee who sulking seeing it wasn't him who got called. He then notice the look Neji give to him, despite his face stoic but there hint of gratitude in there "Your Welcome." He speak aloud to him
The pale eyed boy blinked his eyes once, before he grunted and turned away
Haru let out small chuckle, does this mean Neji tsundere as well? Ahh, what a joke. He then notice it wasn't just Neji but the Jōnin near him, Naruto and Sakura also show gratitude look
"Good job Haru..." Genma praised with nod "I'm not in mood to see sunset now." He grumbled and the other Jōnin nodded solemnly. Haru snorted as Naruto and Sakura shivered, they must be has seen it when Lee challenge Sasuke
He doesn't want to see the infamous sunset. He never see it until now and he will never going to, the way two man clad in spandex and filled with muscle hugging each other is so damn wrong! So wrong in many level!
"Ano... Haru-san..."
Haru turned to Sakura who called him, his face set into polite look "Yes Sakura-san?"
"How did you know she's genjutsu user?" She asked curiously
"Well..." Haru rubbed his chin and put thoughtful face "Let just say I stalk them a bit after they retreat few days ago." He said mysteriously with wink
"Eh? Why you do that?"
Haru grinned, he always want to say this to someone "One can never be too careful, Constant Vigilance!"
Now, if only he have fake eye that rolled around...
He then notice that Kurenai face filled with concern, there mixture of guilt as well in there. Genma also seems notice it too as his eyes briefly move to her
"Don't worry Kurenai..." Genma said in reassuring tone, making the raven haired Jōnin turned to him "Yakumo is strong, she maybe not one who fight in physical aspect, but her Genjutsu, still top notch... You of all people should knew it. After all..." Genma allow small smirk appear on his face "No one knew her more than you..."
Kurenai seems reassured hearing that as she glanced down to Yakumo again. Truthfully she never talk with her even until now, call her coward, but after what she did to her... The guilt and feeling of shame that gnawing inside her was big
"Well... Except for Haru of course." Genma added as he glanced to the boy who perked at his name mentioned "He supposed to be her lover after all."
Eyebrow twitching, Haru try his best to ignore vein that twitched around Hinata eyes and gobsmacked look from Kurenai "For the last time, Sensei, Yakumo and I only friend."
"You are now... But in future?"
Haru only shake his head in exasperation, this isn't something he need now. He focus back to Yakumo fight while Sakura giggling at his dismay
Yakumo and Kin stare at each other, the Oto Genin observed the Heiress of Kurama appearance, trying to judge her. She won't make same mistake like Zaku did, that arrogant prick got his ass kicked because he too hot tempered and reckless
'Pale soft skin... Small muscle... This one obviously not someone who fight in melee range. A princess huh? A spoiled one like that pink haired pathetic girl.' Kin thought with scoff. She still remember the fight with the pink haired Genin, that girl while quite smart but obviously not fighter, the only reason she live because Zaku love to play with his prey too much, if it was her who deal with her the girl would be dead already
"The fourth match, Yakumo Kurama versus Kin Tsuchi. Begin!"
In instant, Kin slipped senbons to her fingers and throw it to Yakumo. The brown haired girl, ducked, she slip pair of shuriken to her fingers and throw it to the Oto Genin
Kin easily dodge it, she pull wave of senbons again and launched it to Yakumo who rolled and dodge the senbons, letting the small projectiles latched to wall. Quickly, Yakumo take two pair of shurikens and throw it
Kin simply dodge it once again, she let out another senbons to Yakumo. The Kurama Heiress prepared to dodge it, but when she about to, she heard sounds of bells ringing, quickly, she jump as high as possible, flipping in air in process and landed far away from her
'Bells?' She glanced to the bell that latched to the senbons, narrowing her eyes she sent smirk to Yakumo "Oh please, that trick won't work on me." She said in haughty tone
Kin in response merely smirked back "Really? I'd like to see you said that after you got hit, Princess." She replied as she slip out another senbons to her fingers
Yakumo merely snorted, she then clap her hands together and performing few hand seals and-
"As if I'd let you use Jutsu!"
Kin throw barrage of senbon while rushing to Yakumo. The brown haired girl forced to abandon her technique, clicking her tongue in distaste. She flip her body, dodging the projectiles and throw kunai to Kin. The Oto Genin tilted her head, let the kunai went through her and pulled her hand slightly while smirked
CLING!
Yakumo whole body freeze, it was then she notice there something wrong with her. For moment everything become dark before resumed, her eyes widened in instant as she feel her body numb
"W-What the..."
"Like it?" Kin asked with smirk "That bell is not ordinary one, it was special. It produces a particular sound wave, affect the brain."
"Shit!" Yakumo in instant try her best to cover her ears but it proved to be useless as she somehow still hear the bells ringing
"Too late. Once you heard the bell, you already trapped." Kin said in gleeful tone "Now..." Her voice distorted, so do herself, her body split into ten that circling Yakumo in omnious manner "Let play shall we?"
Yakumo body seized by barrage of Senbons of instant. All of them pierce through part of her body, however that wasn't the point, despite countless and many of them assault her body but none of them harm her fatally
But the pain is something else
To expert senbon user, striking a point that able to cause immense amount of pain isn't hard, mosty of senbon user actually medic who working. But with right intent, medic could be turned to opposite of it purpose
Kin not expert senbon user, but she has knowledge to use it, she has learn it. She maybe only third rate, but she knew the basic of using senbon and medic, she knew how to strike enemy in vital point
"Your scream quite exotic princess." Kin said with glee as she stare down at Yakumo bleeding form. The girl not reply, she has scream loudly for a minutes under her assault and now laying in ground weakly, live, but barely "Well, it not one of my best work but..." She shrugged in nonchalant manner before turned to Hayate "Oi, Proctor I-"
Only to find he not there
Blinking her eyes, Kin face scrunched to confusion. She turned her head to the Hokage to demand but then she found he not there too.
It was in that moment she notice something wrong
When Yakumo scream, she not heard any attempt of intervention from proctor, nor she hear gasp or horrified sounds from everyone.
And she right... Because there no one in there...
"W-What is this?" Kin stuttered, eyes wide and start to frantic as she look to all direction, to the hall that empty "W-Where is everybody?!"
"Hi, hi, hi, hi."
A giggle echoed in the empty arena, attracting Kin attention as she spun around. Yakumo still in ground, her face still covered by her hair but the giggle truly come from her, her body twitching slowly like a woman that possessed
"You just realize it now don't you?"
Then slowly she rose
Both of her bloodied palms pressed the ground, allowing crimson pool formed beneath it, her knee that filled with blood supporting her body, raising the Kurama Heiress slowly
Kin in instinct taken one step back, fear slowly crawled to her face. There nothing wrong with the sight she seen now, she not foreign with blood and gore, but there something, something that make her afraid
"Let me tell you something." She spoke, her voice is harsh, rough, dry like someone that not drink water for so long "When you made Genjutsu, you should be more creative..." Her body limping, her hair still flung down, covering her face from the World
Then, she lift it up
It was... A monster... An abomination... There nothing that could explaint it. It not worthy to be called as living being nor it called as creature. For mother nature will never ever give birth for such twisted and horrifying creature like it
Eyes large inhumanely, wide, pure black with nothing but sick yellow slit. Two horns on her foreheads, like a Devil. It has no mouth nor nose, only fangs, a sharp teeth that tearing fleash covering it, with crimson pool of blood oozing between it
"Like Mine"
And Kin screamed
"HRRAAAAAHHHHRRRRR!"
To said everyone shocked was understanding
One moment Kin about to throw her senbon to Yakumo who performing hand seals and in next, the Oto Genin freeze when the Kurama Heiress clap her hands together
Then she fell into silence...
To anyone who knew about Genjutsu, it was clear Yakumo got Kin the moment she perform hand seal. Haru, Genma and Kurenai knew Yakumo is expert in Genjutsu, very expert in fact, her Genjutsu even can surpass Kurenai who hailed as Genjutsu Mistress in Konoha
The Oto Genin only freeze for less than minute, before she start to scream and fell to the ground. The scream that she let out is so inhumane, it wasn't scream that someone saw it nightmare, no. It was scream of someone that locked with it nightmare, caging by it worse fear and forced to see it, and no matter how that person wish to escape, to do anything to flee, it never granted
"Using Genjutsu on me, is stupid decision." Yakumo speak, voice filled with triumph as she stare at Kin who shrieaking in ground and clawing her body as if there something hidden beneath her skin
Had Kin fight in close range, the chance of her win clearly will be quite big seeing Yakumo quite weak in physical aspect due to her isolation. But she make mistake by trying to attempt use Genjutsu to her
In battle of Genjutsu, it wasn't matter of which one stronger or have more Chakra, but which one is more imaginative, which one that possess better control and which one who more have mental strength
Yakumo who raised in clan that specialize in Genjutsu, taught ever since she small, and possessing special bloodline that only one person that Kurama clan have it in few generation
Her imagination, and her control already surpassing any normal ninja. Even surpassing most Chūnin and could categorized as borderline to Jōnin perhaps. Her mental strength, is something that she not need to, because her bloodline, Ryūketsu no Sakkaku (Bloody Illusion) provide it to her
Ryūketsu no Sakkaku is not like what people think, it not just power that able to make pain in illusion into reality. To make pain into reality, you have to possess strong mental power, a very strong will that able to tear the fabric of reality. The moment Yakumo inherit this power, she gained very powerful mental strength that surpassing anyone could imagine, of course there drawback for such power, the dark personality that called Ido is proof of that
However, thanks for Third Hokage and Jiraya of Sannin, such problem could be handled. Of course, the side effect it would make Yakumo unable to use her real power due to part of it sealed, but it doesn't make her Genjutsu ability less potent
"Well... I guess you had enough." Yakumo said in pitying tone. With single motion of her hand seal, Kin whole body freeze, before she promptly pass out, foam merged from her mouth as if she just digesting poison "Proctor, call the match."
Hayate not need to check it anymore, Kin was clearly pass out already "Winner of fourth match, Yakumo Kurama!" He declared
"Oh hell, that girl must be see something very scary to scream like that..." Haru muttered with grimace
It wasn't hard to see the atmosphere changed. Where before there laid back and only slight tense, it changed the moment Yakumo finish her match. The horrifying scream that Kin let out is something that remind them back that they were participant that trying to kill each other to prove their worth
He could see Naruto, and Sakura squirmed slightly, clearly uncomfortable with it, so do the other Genins. The only one that not bothered perhaps is Team Suna, Haku and him, everyone show small sign of disturbed at the scream
"She... Quite cold..." Hinata muttered, disdain evident in her voice
'Not likely, she just use genjutsu and not harm her. Though she probably could use the less flashy one, but giving her nature...'
Haru knew what kind of person Yakumo is. She is someone who seeking attention, craving for fame due to her inferior complex. You can't blame her personality to Kurenai and her past for that, having her whole power sealed make her think herself unworthy and wish to prove herself
It similar like Naruto in one way, but instead don't have any firend and seeking companion due to loneliness, Yakumo seek for fame, for praise and respect
'A quite prideful person she is...' Haru thought as he give polite smile to Yakumo who approaching after winning her match "Good job Yakumo."
"Congratulation Yakumo-san." Haku congratulated as well
"Thanks." Yakumo grinned slightly "Not one of my best though..."
"You make thirteen years old girl screaming like a pig that roasted, resurrected and roasted once again and you said not the best?" Haru deadpanned
"Perhaps I should have her smacked her head to the wall repeatedly huh?" Yakumo said, she also has decency to look a bit sheepish at Haru tone
"I don't think it good one." Haru replied dryly "If you did it intentionally it will be more hurt than original." He grumbled loud enough as everyone staring at him expectantly
"Experience?" Kakashi asked
"Oh yeah..." Haru nodded "Trust me, I knew how it feel. I once smack my head to wall." He said as he recall the memory
"Why the hell you do that?" Kiba asked in tone that said 'are you stupid?'
"Because sometime facepalming is not enough..." Haru answered in dull tone "And yes, it had to do with Naruto and Sasuke." He added when he see Shino open his mouth slightly
"Hey!" Naruto protested indignantly
Kakashi snap his book close and he give Haru look of pity, he knew dealing with Naruto and Sasuke is hard. And this boy has been doing it for years, add the face he did it when they still a brat! "My condolence." He said sincerely in tone that voiced sadness and pity
"Kakashi-sensei!"
Of course he ignored again as Haru nodded with sagged shoulder
"Thank you."
"H-Haru-kun, don't being mean to Naruto-kun." Hinata chided lightly, despite she always shy at his side but she still could gather courage to chided him
"But Hinata-chan! You don't know the horror staying with them!" Haru replied in exasperated manner
The Hyūga blushed at the suffix, it. It sounds so nice and charming when he spoke it despite he only joking
She really had it bad
Yakumo scowled openly, clearly dislike seeing the conversation between Haru and Hinata
Fortunately Haru notice it as he quickly change the topic "Wonder who turn will be next..." He muttered as he staring at the projector that set once again
"Eager?" Genma asked
"Not really. Just curious, though..." Haru eyes briefly glanced to Gaara for moment "I wish I get my turn after this, I could be quite impatient."
"That surprising." Shino commented "Why? Because if you impatient then you must be already have grown old due to dealing with Naruto and Sasuke for years."
"Hey!" Naruto yelled indignantly "What that suppose to be mean?!"
Hinata and Haru openly giggling or chuckling while everyone else stare at Shino with gawked expression
"Dude, did you just make a joke?" Kiba asked
Shino turned to him, his sunglasses flashing due to the light that reflected to it "I don't know what you talking about."
Snort come from Haru, he let out another chuckle, not even try to hide his amusement
'Shino make a joke? This is the first time I heard it... It seems Haru-kun really close to him and Hinata huh?' Kurenai thought with fondness as she shake her head slightly
"How about you Hinata?" Haru asked
"E-Eh?" Hinata blurted out, seems nervous as her crush talking to her
"The fight..."
"Ah! A-Ah... Umm..." She glanced to other for moment, blush adorn her face as she twirl her index fingers together "I.. I think I will ready."
"Good. Show some confident, you are strong." Haru cheered for her
"H-Hai." She smiled demurely to him who grinned and ruffle her hair, eliciting moan from her
"Huh? Your hair smoother than usual." Haru commented, he blinked in surprise "Well, not like it bad things though. I just glad you take care of yourself." He said as he retract his hand
Hinata only blushed and look to the floor with very red face
'A simple move... Heh..' Haru thought with chuckle inwardly
Yakumo appear to be dislike it as her scowl deepened, Haru seems paying more attention to the Hyūga. She about to speak but unfortunately, the projector has done it job
DING!
Everyone turned their faces to the board when the projector spew out the names. Haru freeze when he see the names that came out
Hinata Hyūga
VS
Neji Hyūga
'Of all things that went like in Canon... This one also have to?' Haru thought grimly as he grip the balcony slight tight. He notice Hinata eyes also widened and her face freeze, he see fear for moment in there
"Hinata..." Kiba whispered, concern in his voice as he glanced at his teammate "You... Hinata you need to-"
"Keep focus." Haru cut whatever Kiba going to said as he speak aloud to Hinata who turned to him "You're strong Hinata, our training together proof that. Remember, a cat can bring down a eagle with proper strategy." He said sternly
He knew it was useless. Hinata is better than in Canon, it was obvious, she more confident, more stronger due to proper training from him, but she still nowhere near Neji level. Neji is prodigy, even Haru admit that, proof he can become Jōnin in spawn of two years from Genin is more than enough to show his strength
The reason Neji lose to Naruto is because he arrogance and annoying when in fight. If he put down Naruto in instant without talking, it will be over. Add the fact Naruto also have help from Kyuubi that time
But that won't stop him from cheering for her
Hinata frozen face slowly melted, the fear in her eyes gone and her face replaced by determining look, the one that Haru see when she faced Pain in Shippuden
"Hai..." Hinata nodded firmly and Haru smiled
"Go and show him your strength, Hinata." Haru replied
Hinata nodded back, she smile to him and make her face look beauty as she stare at Haru raven eyes with her white eyes. "I will..."
Haru watched as Hinata walk down to the below through stairs, she still nervous he could tell, she using stairs to calm and composed herself
He then feel grip on his shoulder and he see Kiba enraged face
"The Hell you doing?! Don't you know what you just did?!" He snarled
"And what you suggestion?" Haru asked back, his tone is calm "Tell her to surrender? Do you wish for her to be looked weak by him? To be looked down?"
"That's not the point!" Kiba raged, his fang bared to him "Neji will destroy her! He hate her with all passion! He will kill her!"
"No he won't..." Haru replied calmly "He hate her, yes. He will destroy her? No. Destroy mean put something out of existence, turned whatever his face into nothing, not even single piece. He won't destroy her because she can, Hinata strong." He stated with the most convincing tone "Very strong, she won't down, even if her body broken she won't stay down, she won't be destroyed, not by someone like Neji. He may break her but she will arise, trust me, I has spend years with Hinata, I knew what she capable of."
Haru dark raven eyes meet with Kiba slitted eyes, his face set into stern, daring the Inuzuka to challenge his word. The feral boy show surprise and taken back look at Haru declaration. He gritted his fang, clenching Haru shirt tightly before let it go
"If she dead, I will hunt you Haru. I like you, but Hinata is like sister to me." Kiba declared
"She won't be dead..." Haru replied strongly "Not on my watch..." He said coldly as his eyes went down to Hinata and Neji
"I admit... I'm surprised it come to this, Hinata-sama." Neji said as he stared at Hinata
"I, as well, Neji-niisan." Hinata replied
Neji eyebrow rosed slightly, there no sign of fear in her voice. Her body language also show no nervousness, she look calm and composed, she look like a very different person from the one she see everyday
"Give up Hinata-sama, you knew well you can't beat me." Neji stated
"You are right. You are more experienced, you are more skilled and you are more strong than me. But that doesn't mean I will stop trying." Hinata said, there small fear in her voice, Neji caught it but it only small and barely there "Fate, never set in stone after all."
"You are fool, you know you will lose and yet you still keep going?" Neji scoffed, the reply he got merely Hinata taking her stance to fight. Seeing this Neji face scrunched slightly to distaste "Fine, I won't be responsible for what happen." He said as he taking stance as well
Seeing both participant ready and show no sign to talk anymore, Hayate raise his hand
"The fifth match, Hinata Hyūga versus Neji Hyūga. BEGIN!"
Hello all! How you all? Its been a while isn't it? I wish to apologize for that, you see, I still focused with my DxD/Fate crossover XD
Truthfully I really enjoy to write that one but I play Naruto recently and reminded of this fic, so I decide to focus on this for a moment
As you can see the fight went differently from Canon, of course there will be one who same! There many of you protest things went almost same like Canon, but what you all didn't know, Haru doesn't wish things to change
It explained in here, why he wish to change if he already knew all the advantage he get from Canon? No, he don't wish for change, he merely trying to take advantage of what happen
There will be big change of course after Tsunade become Hokage, the Shippuden will be affected but for now Haru doesn't wish change because he is safe now, add the fact he still no match against monster like Orochimaru and Akatsuki
If he change thing too much it will be dangerous and risky for him
And there reason why Haru acting like that in public, few of you probably going to be able tell it in instant I write this note. What you all need to know, currently Haru is in high alert, he just got outsmarted once by Hiruzen and it knock him down, hard.
Anyway! This is it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Please Favorite, Follow, and Review
Ja Ne! XD