ACADEMY DAYS VII - SHINOBI UNION 3

Hyuga household

Hanabi is sitting seiza-style in her family personal training ground, her feet tucked in under her butt, her hands placed on her knees. She remains motionless. Calm. Alert.

Despite her eyes themselves being closed, the popping veins around her eyes suggest more to her than her demeanor might have one believe.

A feather, as fast as a kunai, flies directly at her head.

She emits a light burst of chakra that knocks the feather mid-air, causing it to lose all of its momentum and slowly sway to the ground, among dozens of other feathers.

"Oh wow." Kotori watches in awe. "She just keeps knocking them down! How?"

Hiashi calmly sips his tea, sitting in the same seiza style as Hanabi. "That is the way of the Hyuga. We've perfected our control of chakra moreso than any other. With the aid of the Byakugan we've been able to study the flow of chakra to a greater degree than anyone and have used that knowledge to-" She stops, seeing that Kotori has stopped paying attention and has continued throwing feathers at Hanabi, which all get deflected. He sighs, exasperated.

Hinata chuckles and pats her father on the back. "I believe you'll find Kotori similar to Naruto in many regards."

"I'm beginning to notice." He says in a tired voice.

"So this is something only the Hyuga can do?" Kotori asks, not having stopped listening as Hiashi may have thought. "You need the Byakugan for it?"

"Technically speaking, no." Hiashi answers, slightly impressed that she's taking such a great interest. "We're able to use it more easily because we can see the flow of chakra so we can easily adjust our output. Anyone can learn the skill; they simply have to rely on their instincts. However, that has led to many permanently damaging their chakra system."

Kotori gulps. "Sooo best not to do that."

"Unsupervised, no." Hiashi corrects her. "If you can find a Hyuga willing to help you learn, then…"

Kotori smiles widely looking between him and Hinata. "So, you mean I can…?"

Hinata raises a brow. "Do you mean you're allowing Kotori to learn the Hyuga clan's secrets?"

Hiashi delays his response with another sip of tea. He's definitely doing this on purpose. "She is your daughter, is she not? It is your duty to teach her and pass down your knowledge."

He almost spills his tea when Kotori abruptly hugs him. "Thanks, grandpa!"

Hiashi does his utmost to keep a straight face. He utilizes the many years of being head of the most prestigious clan, years of service on the battlefield. However, even his once cold demeanor can't hold back the smile that creeps across his face. Him trying to fight that smile only makes his face funnier.

Hinata giggles. "Father…"

In contrast to her sister, from her spot in the yard, Hanabi begins laughing uncontrollably.

Hiashi grabs the plate his cup had been resting on and flings it at Hanabi like a shuriken. The young heiress grabs it, rather than repelling, and opens the eyes, some tears of laughter flowing down her cheeks. He stands up and wipes her eyes, composing herself.

Kotori only now lets go of her adoptive grandfather. "You won't regret it, grandpa! I'll train super hard, harder than Jiriki!" She declares.

Hiashi coughs, trying to compose himself, as well. "Since you're part of the family, you must refer to me as Grandfather when others are around."

"Okay!" Kotori nods.

Hanabi walks over and places the plate back where it belongs. "Still trying to act tough, Father?"

"Come now, Hanabi." Hinata giggles despite herself. "Be mindful of Father's feelings."

"I trust you're prepared for the Chunin Exams tomorrow?" Hiashi tries to change the subject.

Hanabi nods firmly. "I am. I'll win no matter the cost."

"Good." Hiashi stands up and straightens his robes. "We will have one final session later and then you're to rest until the morning. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've matters to attend to." He nods to the three girls and makes his way inside.

"Do you really think you can win?" Kotori asks.

"Naturally." Hanabi puffs out her chest with pride. "I'm the heiress of the Hyuga clan, after all. Even among 11 villages, no one can match me."

"Be careful, Hanabi." Hinata warns. "Confidence and arrogance are not far away from one another and it's not always clear towards which you're headed."

"Don't worry, I'm fully aware of what I say." Hanabi reassures her sister.

Kotori scratches her cheek. "Hmm… But Konohamaru says he's definitely gonna win, too. Can 2 people win?"

Hanabi's eye twitches. "That little…?" She can feel her voice rising just thinking about him. "Listen, what my sister said is true. I have confidence in my abilities, but Sarutobi is arrogant. He can't see things clearly. He has no chance!"

"You sound oddly passionate about this?" Hinata smirks, becoming suspicious of just how opinionated Hanabi is about her peer.

"He's been a thorn in my side for a while now. Always appearing when I least suspect him, with that dumb grin on his face… Maybe I'll get the chance to finally shut him up."

"Why don't you two like each other?" Kotori asks.

"He's just…" Hanabi grumbles. "Difficult. Always getting in my way."

Kotori looks at Hinata, confused. "He didn't seem that way."

Hinata pats her on the head. "They just have a lot of things to work over, the two of them."

Hanabi crosses her arms. "Let's just not talk about him. Let's talk about Naruto; where is he?"

Hinata smiles. "With Konohamaru."

Hanabi slumps her shoulder. Just can't win.

Sarutobi household

Konohamaru hops in place, getting pumped up. He swings his arms, punching the air, and finishes with a high kick. "And that's how I'm gonna win!" He declares.

Naruto laughs. "Got it all planned out, huh?"

"You bet!" The boy gives a thumbsup.

Genzai looks unconvinced. "I really doubt it's going to play out like that."

"Oh ye of little faith." Konohamaru poses dramatically. "You believe in me, right?" He turns to look at two adults in particular.

"Of course, son." Taisaku says.

"Thank you!" Konohamaru firmly nods.

"I just don't believe in this plan of yours." Taisaku adds.

Konohamaru slumps his shoulders.

From the seat next to the Sarutobi clan head, Kurenai chuckles. "I'm sure you'll be fine."

Mirai waddles up to her cousin and hugs his leg. "I believe, Kanamaru!"

Konohamaru tears up and picks up the toddler. "You're a bright light in this home, Mirai! If only I had a sibling like you..." He holds her up to his chest.

She giggles at the affection she's being showered in.

"Hey!" Genzai plays the role of the offended, knowing his brother is only joking.

Naruto laughs and stands up to go up to Konohmaru, clapping him on te back. "If you got a plan, then I'm sure it'll work."

"You know it! I got something up my sleeve that'll really leave ya speechless, boss!" The boy grins. "You'll be all 'WOAH, Konohamaru, you're so awesome!'."

"So awesome!" Mirai raises her hands in cheering.

"Yep, just like that!" Konohamaru laughs.

Naruto grins. "Alright. I'll be waiting for this surprise of yours. Just so you know, I'm the king of surprises so I expect something good." He adds as a joke.

"Don't worry it will be! Might not be at the first fight tomorrow, but it'll come!" Konohamaru gives a thumbs up, mimicked by Mirai.

Hidden Leaf Arena

And the crowd goes wild.

By far the largest gathering this arena, or any arena, has ever seen. The first time that 11 villages have gathered in one place for peaceful reasons and it shows in just how packed the place is. It's larger than the old one but still hardly enough to fit everyone. Some modifications in the form of Earth Style and a bit of Wood Style had to be made to accommodate more people but they managed to do it.

The five Kage and six village leaders, as usual, have their own designated spot that overlooks the entirety of the arena. The sit at a table with one advisor each standing behind them- Kakashi Hatake, Darui, Kankuro, Kurotsuchi, and Chojuro for the Five Great Villages.

All throughout the audience seats, most people of import have found their places. Many of the clan leaders have managed to group up. That includes Naruto Uzumaki, Hiashi Hyuga, and Taisaku Sarutobi, and relevant personages. Hinata, Kurenai and Mirai, and the kids are present to cheer, as well. Kotori, Jiriki, Genzai, Kashiwama, along with Kigatsu and Teshin families who, thanks to Naruto, were granted seats usually reserved for VIPs.

Itosuke Teshin tries to appear calm in these surroundings. "To be present at Chunin Exams… I'd given up on the idea of the Teshin clan being present and yet here we are."

Hiashi looks to him from the corner of his eyes. "And once your boy graduates, your clan will participate once more."

"Is that something you wish to see happen, Lord Hiashi?" Itosuke puts on his best pokerface.

"Naturally." Hiashi answers without delay. "The Teshin clan were admirable rivals. It's a shame your forefathers chose to end their careers. I look forward to your son showing what made the Empty Hand so revered as a fighting style."

Itosuke's pokerface drops to reveal the confusion he feels underneath. "Uh, thank you?"

-x-

Yoi Kigatsu looks around in awe. "I don't think I've seen this many people in one place before. It's somewhat nerve-wracking."

Guren laughs. "If you think it's bad now, wait until Yokumaru's the one down there fighting."

"That's…" Yoi expression turns to mild panic. "I still don't even think I've come to terms with that." She looks over to her son who's up by the railing along with his friends and classmates, future teammates and rivals. "Are they also going to fight each other in the future? Despite being on the same side."

Naruto turns around in his chair to address her. "You got nothing to worry about, auntie. A lot of my best friends are people I fought against. I can promise the Chunin Exams will only make them closer."

-x-

Hinata leans over to fawn over the young Mirai sitting in Kurenai's lap. "Are you excited, Mirai?"

The toddler looks up and nods more times than she needs to, rocking her hair. She then points to the arena. "Kohamaru!"

Hinata follows to where Mirai is pointing. "Yes, Konohamaru will be there. Will you cheer for him?"

"Yea!" Mirai puts her hands up above her head and claps. "Cheer on Kanamaru. WIN!"

Hinata laughs. "She's grown so much. She was so small when Naruto and I left."

Kurenai smiles. "She has. She's at the age where she's much more active, too."

"Once this is all over, I can come spend more time with her." Hinata offers.

"You really don't need to." Kurenai smiles. "I know you've been really busy with your new position, and it'll probably get busier with the expanding Union. That, and you have your own family now."

"Yes, I suppose I do." Hinata looks back to Naruto sat next to her, engaged in conversation with the others around them.

"Family!" Mirai cheers.

When the time arrives for the Exams to start, each qualified team from each village lines up in the arena, ready to receive instructions from the proctor, Genma Shiranui. He delivers the speech in his usual laidback tone with a toothpick between his lips.

He looks at all of the teams gathered. 11 in total, 1 from each village. 33 Genin. This is by far the largest gathering since the founding of the hidden villages.

Because of the sheer size, the preliminaries were held at each respective village and only a single team came out on top to take part in the final exam- the tournament. For the Hidden Leaf, it's actually a mixed team. Konohamaru Sarutobi, Moegi Kazamatsuri, and Hanabi Hyuga.

From the sidelines, Ebisu cheers them on along with Udon Ise, the currently only Chunin from Team Ebisu. Samui is nearby, as well, but much less vocal than her Leaf colleague when it comes to supporting her Genin.

Genma begins the explanation. "This final part of the Chunin Exams, as is tradition, will take the form of a tournament. 30 of you will fight 1-on1 while 3 randomly selected will fight in a three-way. The only manipulation on our part will be that those 3 must be from separate villages. And due to the sheer number, the arena will be split into 3 smaller sections."

He signals the shinobi on standby at certain intervals of the arena. The shinobi all go through the same hand signs.

[Four Violet Flames Formation]

Purple translucent walls emerge from the ground and, as advertised, split the arena in three parts. Small opening on the walls allow the Genin to go to their designated sections.

Genma continus the explanation. "You're to fight until either or both are unable to continue or one of you forfeits. Deliberate attempts at killing will not be tolerated." He scans the present Genin to ensure the information sunk in. "And now for the draws."

Genma motions to the large screen on the side of the arena. The names of all 33 Genin flash across several times before each of them are paired with their opponent.

The very first fight will have Konohamaru going up against a Hidden Waterfall Genin. He quickly scans all 16 matches to see where the people he knows are. The first name he spots is Hanabi's, who's more to the centre brackets. If they wind all their matches, they'd face all the way in the semi-finals. Moegi is in the second half, meaning the only way Konohamaru would fight her is in the finals.

A name that sticks out to him is Umai, the Cloud Genin who talked smack to him before. She's in the very final fight- the three way. The odds are against her; she might not be able to go up against two other opponents.

For many people in the audience, this is their first time ever encountering the Hidden Star's Mysterious Peacock Method. A special form of chakra manipulation that was born of a celestial body that fell long ago. Even though the meteorite was lost 7 years ago, their chakra remained and they were able to master and mold their own chakra to achieve this special technique on their own. It was only possible through intense study and training but this chakra manipulation is perhaps unparalleled among the Hidden Villages.

-x-

16th-finals

During the first rounds, all of the Leaf Genin manage to win, advancing to the next stage. Konohamaru displayed skills that not many people had seen, not even Naruto. The young boy fought with an impressive and unorthodox taijutsu taught to the Sarutobi clan and burned his opposition with Fire Style ninjutsu. Moegi proved skillful with her combination of Water and Earth-styles, while Hanabi showed everyone why the Hyuga are one of the most respected shinobi clans.

To Konohamaru's combination of annoyance and delight, Umai won her three-way and she did so with relative ease. Unexpectedly, that fight was the shortest of them all. Her Lightning Style fried her opponents and allowed her to come out relatively unscathed.

-x-

With only 16 contestants now left, the winners are treated by the medical staff present. Sakura specifically makes sure to double and triple check everyone's health before they get sent back outside. Once they're cleared to continue, she goes to double check that the 17 who lost their fights are also in good health.

Similarly, Hana Inuzuka tends to the health of the non-human participants. The Tsumetogi clan of the Hidden Mountain fight with their companion felines and the Erimaki clan of the Hidden Stone fight with their frill-necked lizards. Both of the beasts must also be in top shape for the next stage.

-x-

8th-finals

Among the remaining 16, Konohamaru and Hanabi manage to win their fight. Konohamaru faces a Genin from the Hidden Sand using Wind Style but Konohamaru eventually overpowers them, while Hanabi fights a Hidden Star Genin using the Peacock Method. It takes her a while to get accustomed to the strange chakra that surrounds the whole body but her Gentle Fist is able to defeat it.

Moegi, unfortunately, falls in this bracket to one of the Hidden Cloud Genin, unable to stop their Lightning.

-x-

Ebisu tries to console his sulking student. "You mustn't fret, Moegi! Losing a fight doesn't mean you won't become a Chunin!"

Udon nods. "Yeah! You did good."

"Not good enough." Moegi hangs over the railings overlooking the arena. "So many shinobi here, all of them the best in their village…" She sighs. "Should've known I had no chance. You were lucky to get promoted last year, Udon…"

-x-

Quarterfinals

8 Genin remaining. 4 fights.

They all get a day of rest after the 16th-finals and 8th-finals to rest up and be on their best. Some had more strenuous matches than others and they're still not in top shape

Konohmaru wins his fight against a Hidden Sand puppet-user which he does with some difficulty. Hanabi manages to win against a Hidden Star Genin who surprised everyone by making it this far. Most everyone was certain the Five Great Villages but the ever reclusive Star got to the top 8, showing off they're not to be underestimated.

Hanabi fights against a Mist swordsman which is a particularly bad match-up for him as he seems to specialize in stealth, using the Hiding in Mist jutsu which the Byakugan sees right through. He does prove proficient with swords alone but eventually Hanabi overpowers him.

Umai actually has to fight one of her own teammates and they do put up a good fight, both of them wanting to be the one to make it to the end and show off just what they can do. At the end, however, Umai proceeds to the top 4.

The final Genin is one Sharo Erimaki from the Hidden Stone defeats a Hidden Mist Genin, with the help of her companion frill-necked lizard, not unlike the Inuzuka's canines and the Tsumetogi's felines..

Those are the one to fight for the semifinals and final. The ones who overcame all their obstacles so far. After a brief intermission to allow them enough time to recover, the semi-finals begin.

Shinobi Union Chunin Exams semi-finals

Konohamaru Sarutobi of the Hidden Leaf vs Hanabi Hyuga of the Hidden Leaf

Konohamaru smirks. "Guess we won't have to wait long to see how I'll beat."

"I'm at least glad I'll kick you out of the Exams sooner rather than later." Hanabi remarks.

Genma looks at both contestants, ensuring they're at the proper distance from each other.

Without taking out the toothpick off his lips, he lists off the rules of the bout. "You may use any and all tactics you deem fit, any and all tools at your disposal. Deliberate murder will not be condoned. You will fight until either one of you forfeits or is unable to fight. Understood?" He looks to both of them for confirmation.

Konohamaru and Hanabi both nod.

Genma raises his hand and brings it down in a swift motion, "Begin!" And Flickers away.

Konohamaru wastes no time in bringing his fingers in a very familiar seal.

[Shadow Clones]

Four dopplegangers spring into existence in a puff of smoke and before that smoke can even settle, they've thrown shuriken at Hanabi. Two shuriken for each Konohamaru, the projectiles come at her from different paths, having been thrown to curve mid-air. This, however, is not something that would phase her.

This, however, is something she's more than prepared for. She takes her stance and knocks each shuriken to the ground by blasting it with a burst of chakra from her palms.

[One Blow Hand]

While she focuses on that, despite how briefly she did, the Shadow Clones run in to engage her in melee. Hanabi manages to expertly weave between their punches and kicks, delivering a powerful blow to their bodies that disperses them.

"Such an uninspired start." Hanabi mocks. "Are you sure you don't want to save us time and forfeit now?"

"I'm just getting started!" Konohamaru declares

He pulls out two shuriken from his pouch and aims them right at her.

Hanabi narrows her eyes. "I deflected 10 easily, how are 2 going to help?"

She once again prepares to render these useless as she did the previous batch.

When they get close, Konohamaru smirks and begins to weave his chakra. "Two? Count again."

[Shuriken Shadow Clones]

The two shuriken turns into dozens, duplicate after duplicate filling the space around Hanabi.

There's no way she can deflect this many, even if she uses a One Blow Body this time. They're way too close for comfort and they're only getting closer. She shifts her feet. There's one way to get out of this one. She extends her hands forward and back and begins violently spinning, releasing chakra from every chakra point in her body. The shuriken hit a sphere of pure chakra, one of the Hyuga clan's most dangerous techniques.

[Revolving Heaven]

Once all the shuriken clatter to the ground, she stops her rotation and immediately darts toward the slack-jawed Konohamaru.

Going from spinning to running forward is definitely something she's not yet used to. Before she reaches Konohamaru, she stumbles a bit which throws her off for the first few strikes. He uses those precious seconds to try and get more distance between them. He ducks, jumps, hops, an all around uses a very unpredictable fighting style to stay away from his opponent.

Hanabi growls. "Stop jumping around like a…"

"Monkey?" He grabs a smoke bomb from his pouch and throws it up between the two of them.

Smoke blows up in both their faces, forcing Hanabi to back off.

"More like a weasel." She clicks her tongue.

As she begins to focus her chakra to her eyes, a figure she never would've expected to see appears in front of her.

Hiashi Hyuga Flickers to the arena and stands in front of Hanabi with a frown on his face.

"Enough!" Hiashi roars in anger. "You've given a lackluster display of your abilities. You should have already won and yet you choose to disgrace me like this?! No more!"

Hanabi stares at him in disbelief. "No, Father, I'm…" Her voice shakes with fear over how she's disappointed her father.

It's then that she sees the stands behind her father, where she sees that… her father is still sitting in the audience. Then who is…

'Hiashi' pulls out a kunai and slashes at her. Hanabi manages to dodge several swipes but he knicks her across the cheek, taking a few strands of hair. In a combination of taijutsu and kunai, the fake Hiashi gets in a few solid hits before Hanabi gets her rhythm back and strikes her fake father. In a puff of smoke, 'Hiashi' is revealed to be Konohamaru. A Shadow Clone, at that, that disappears when struck in the chest.

"You bastard!" She shouts with a voice full of anger, the veins around her eyes popping, only now activating her kekkei genkai.

[Byakugan]

-x-

Naruto, as does everyone around him, looked stunned at what just transpired. They all look forward and try not to look at the head of the Hyuga sitting with them and how he may react.

Hiashi, arms crossed, gives an approving nod. "An impressive tactic."

A bead of sweat drops on Naruto's brow. 'Wait, he enjoyed that…?'

-x-

From the smoke that still fills a small part of the arena, something juts out with great speed. Hanabi, with her Byakugan activated, sees it coming and manages to push it away with a burst of chakra from both hands.

What looks like an overly long staff retracts back into the smoke.

Hanabi narrows her eyes. "So you're done playing games, then?"

"I was never playing." Konohamaru's voice comes from inside the cloud.

The smoke begins to violently disperse, revealing Konohamaru wielding a black bo staff, spinning it over his head to get rid of the smoke. When he does, he takes a battle stance, prepared for battle.

"You're the one who didn't bother using her Byakugan sooner." Konoahamru stares her in her pale eyes.

"And you'll regret I ever did." She declares.

"You're really intense today, huh?" Konohamaru chuckles. "You ready for this, Enra?" He asks seemingly no one in particular.

"For sure!" The staff actually responds.

Without bothering to even get closer, Konohamaru swings the staff. It expands far enough to reach Hanabi and wide enough where it leaves a massive dent in the ground when it comes crashing down. Hanabi dodges the strike, releasing bursts of chakra where necessary to block incoming attacks, but the speed at which the staff is being swung combined with its unpredictable changes in size… It's very annoying.

The crowd's cheering intensifies.

Hanabi inches her way closer and closer but it's taking a while. Her opponent has the advantage of being both at melee and in range at the same time, forcing her to focus on several elements.

After a few moments of fending off the staff, Hanabi reconsiders her approach. She's been focusing on one person when she actually has two opponents right now. The Monkey summons, despite their ability to shift into a weapon, have a chakra system like anyone else.

She bides her time. Keeps benign on the defensive, waiting for Konohamaru to make a more decisive strike. When he does…

[2 Palms]

She strikes Enra twice, causing him to cry out in pain. He tries to revert but his chakra is jostled and so it does not happen right away as it usually does. It would've taken a second to regain his bearings, but Hanabi won't give him that much time.

[4 palms]

Another two strikes. She moves closer to Konohamaru, continuing to strike at Enra's pathway.

[8 Palms]

Konohamaru tries to swing Enra but his disrupted chakra means his toughness has lessened and he's much more unwieldy now.

[16 Palms]

Enra's no longer able to keep up his transformation, returning to his original form of a small primate right in front of Konohamaru. Hanabi continues her rampage, Flickering next to them to finish her assault.

[32 Palms]

With this barrage, Enra disappears.

Hanabi, however, does not stop, now focusing the final strikes on Konohamaru who's trying to scurry away from having his chakra shut off. That would be the end of this fight.

[Eight Trigrams: 64 Pa-

With the first strike, Konohamaru is replaced with a particularly large rock that shatters when struck by the Gentle Fist. Hanabi turns to Konohamaru, having seen where he Substituted to with her widened range of vision.

Hanabi smirks. "You keep being on the defensive. This isn't like you at all."

"Bit expert on me, huh? You a fan?" He brings his hands together, weaving more chakra. "I'll give you an autograph later." He inhales deeply.

[Fire Style: Fire Dragon Flame Bullet]

He breaths out, releasing an intense stream of flames.

"You don't get it, do you?" Hanabi brings her arms to her side, ready to thrust forward. "The moment I saw how your chakra moved, I knew what you were going to do. You can't catch me off guard, Sarutobi."

She envelopes her hands in chakra and thrusts them forward.

[Gentle Fist: Vacuum Palm]

The gust of chakra meets the fire mid-way. The two jutsu clashing causes a violent reaction like a fiery tornado that still manages to reach both of them.

Hanabi skids to her feet to escape the flame.

Konohamaru and a single Shadow Clone run directly through the fire before it can even begin to die down. He's not entirely defenceless, however, as he has a way to keep the fire at bay. A jutsu that works to such an intensity that it creates a small bubble of wind around the user. A sphere of pure concentrated chakra swirls within his palm, keeping him safe from the fire's full heat.

[Rasengan]

Seeing this, Hanabi immediately reacts by releasing chakra from every single chakra point in her body.

[Revolving Heaven]

Two jutsu that release chakra in its pure form, that rely on an intense spinning motion to violently bludgeon opponents. One more user for offence and the other- for defence.

They clash, both fighting hard to overpower the other. In the end, however, the two jutsu prove an even match. The Rasengan and Revolving Heaven explore in a burst of chakra that sends them both flying away and falling on their backs.

The crowd once again cheers.

Hanabi is the first one to get up but Konohamaru doesn't even try. Instead, he sends in his army.

[Shadow Clones]

Four Konohamarus run to engage in combat while the real one regains his composure. The Clones do a better job of keeping their distance, playing defence with their unorthodox fighting style, so as to not be dispersed too early. The real Konohamaru joins the fight soon enough.

He knows far too well that even if a Hyuga misses, they can still affect you with their chakra so he stays back and tries to lure her into a mistake, to find any sort of opening in her Gentle Fist. However, he finds no such opening no matter how much the Shadow Clones.

Even when she hits a Clone to poof it out of existence, he summons a new one to take its place. This goes on for a while with Hanabi slowly but surely gaining momentum. She shows no sign of slowing down or becoming tired. The Clones go away faster and faster, and Konohamaru is running out of chakra using this method of trying to overpower her.

Eventually, Hanabi slides between the Clones and manages to strike Konohamaru's palm, cutting off his chakra. He tries to step back but Hanabi stays on him like glue. She strikes his arm a couple more time, rendering it limp. Another strike to the stomach sends him to the ground.

The Shadow Clones all disperse at once.

The crowd stands on edge, anticipating the end of the fight.

"It's over. You can't use your chakra, can't even use your favourite Shadow Clones or any other jutsu."

Konohamaru stands up despite the pain, holding his stomach with his one remaining good hand.

"You really showing your colours today, huh?" Konohamaru chuckles.

"Forfeit." Hanabi says coldly.

"Rather not." Konohamaru takes a battle stance. "Never gonna give up. I'll fight right to the end, so don't you underestimate me."

Hanabi narrows her eyes and darts right for him. She surrounds her palm in chakra, ready to expel it from her chakra point. She's assured in her victory. Even if he can move a little bit, he's in no shape to move as he did before and he's definitely in no shape to use ninjutsu.

Despite all of that, however, the fire in his eyes has not dwindled. Konohamaru is still going at her with as much intensity as he did before.

They get closer to each other, ready to strike. Hanabi's plan is simple- disable his right hand just like she did with his left and finish closing all of his remaining chakra points.

That plan, however, is about to change.

"I told you," As they both swing to strike at each other, Konohamaru weaves chakra around his palm. Violent and swirling, it gathers into a sphere that sends his the dust around him flying away, "Not to underestimate me!"

Hanabi's eyes widen in shock. 'He can use it in one hand?!'

[RASENGAN!]

It's too late for her to move her hand. She can't stop herself. If she gets hit by that...

-x-

3 years ago

"Excuse me?" Hanabi knocks on the doorframe. "May we… speak?" She hesitates but asks the question she came here to ask.

A longhaired figure, back turned to the door, places a parchment back on the table and turns to greet her.

"Of course, Lady Hanabi." Neji smiles. "How may I assist you?"

She enters the room with an uncertain step, taking a seat opposite Neji. "It's about the Revolving Heaven." She speaks directly. "I hoped to ask you for advice in mastering it."

Neji raises the brow. "Are you not learning it under Lord Hiashi?"

"I am, however…" She looks shyly to the ground. "I'm having a difficult time grasping it. You'd already mastered it when you were my age, a feat not many have been able to accomplish."

"I see. So you're intent on mastering it, as well?"

"Naturally. It's one of our most prized techniques and an impenetrable defence unlike any other! If I'm to succeed Father as clan head…"

Neji chuckles and stands up, going around the table toward the screen door that leads into the yard. He opens it, letting the sunshine in. "It's certainly a remarkable technique, but impenetrable it is not. How about I first teach you of its shortcomings."

Hanabi cocks her head. "Would… that aid in its learning?"

"Maybe it will, or maybe it won't. However, going into training with a misconception such as that would definitely be dangerous. Please, come with me." He walks outside into the open space.

Hanabi follows, intrigued by what he'd have to say.

"The main thing about the Revolving Heaven is the control it requires. It unleashes a powerful force of chakra that violently spins, both protecting and attacking." Neji explains.

Hanabi continues to look confused. "Yes, I'm aware. That's precisely what makes it so powerful."

"However, impenetrable it is not. While it's true that there are few ways to counter it, there are ways. Could you extend your hands for me?"

Hanabi does as instructed and Neji does the same as well.

"With the violent motion, if it's met by something of equal power, it will be unable to keep up its momentum." Neji moves his hand to meet Hanabi's. "Try to push my hand away."

She does but he resists. Neither of them budge.

"With two opposing forces, especially when something like the Revolving Heaven is involved, the result can be catastrophic. However…" With Hanabi still applying force to try to move his hand, Neji very swiftly moves his hand which causes the young girl to slightly lose her balance. He then moves his other hand to push Hanabi's hand away, forcing her to stumble. "Rather than opposing it, if it's pushed to go beyond its limit, the jutsu will break."

"But… what could even do that to the Revolving Heaven?" Hanabi asks. "And to begin with, how does any of this help with learning it?"

"If you know a jutsu's weakness then you'll know how to properly use it, and perhaps even apply that knowledge elsewhere. Every jutsu has its weaknesses and that is the Revolving Heaven's." Neji nods and walks back to his room.

Hanabi stands still where she's been until now and stares. "I feel like I learned nothing…" She mutters to herself.

-x-

Hanabi reels back as the Rasengan inches ever closer. It's just as Neji said- when the Rasengan and Revolving Heaven hit, they were both blasted away. The jutsu cancelled each other out. When it comes right down to it, the Rasengan is like a miniature version of the Revolving Heaven, which means… Rather than meeting it with an equally opposing force…

Hanabi stands firm, planting her feet in the ground. She gathers chakra at the palm of her hand and thrusts it forward. Right at the Rasengan.

Konoahamru's eyes wide as she does this. He expected she might have time to react but he never would've expected this reaction. He's already mid-swing, he can't divert the Rasengan now. But if it hits her hand directly, there's no telling how severe the injuries will be.

Still, Hanabi looks like she has no intention of backing out now. She steels herself and clashes directly with the Rasengan.

Or rather, directly isn't the right word. She's gathered an impressive amount of chakra at her palm, large enough to create a barrier that protects her from the brunt force of Konohamaru's jutsu. It's not as violent as the Rasengan but her own chakra is spinning, as well. Spinning enough where it can boost the opposing jutsu enough to where it's user can no longer control.

"Break!" Hanabi shouts.

And the Rasengan breaks. By adding to its motion, instead of trying to match it, the jutsu spun out of Konohamaru's control, leaving the Sarutobi off-guard and off-balance.

Hanabi strikes immediately. She hits his palm and forearm. Then his biceps, shoulder, stomach. A blur of hits that he has no time to react to, that the audience can barely even keep up with.

[Eight Trigrams: 64 Palms]

When the final hit lands, Konohamaru stumbles back and coughs out blood before collapsing to the ground. She doesn't ease her battle stance, however, staying ready just in case he has something else up his sleeve.

When he shows no signs of getting back up, Genma Flickers on the field. "The winner, Hanabi Hyuga!" He declares the battle as over.

-x-

"Aw man!" Genzai throws up his hands and throws himself back to his seat, having been on his feet for the entirely of the battle.

Jiriki smirks next to him. "It was the natural outcome."

Hiashi turns to Taisaku. "Konohamaru has grown into an excellent shinobi. Had it been anyone besides a Hyuga that he fought..." He tries to reassure his comrade.

Taisaku nods. "Hanabi has grown, as well. I'm sure Konohamaru will be pouty for a few days but will get back to his feet. It's how he always is."

Naruto stares in disbelief. "She… cancelled the Rasengan? She can do that? You can do that?" He turns to Hinata. "Can you do that?"

Hinata shakes her head, in just as much shock as him. "No. I had no idea she could do that."

Kotori looks between the two of them. "Was that impressive, what she did?"

Naruto nods. "The Rasengan's a pretty powerful jutsu. It's not like it can't be stopped but I've never seen anything like what Hanabi did…"

From the side, Kurenai chuckles. "It's certainly a surprise. Just goes to show how careful you should be with your jutsu."

"I guess it's like Itachi said. Every jutsu has a weakness. Shoulda expected that counts for the Rasengan, too." Naruto looks down to his palm, gathering a small amount of swirling chakra.

Hinata stands from her seat, placing a hand on Naruto's shoulder to get his attention. "I'm going to go down to Hanabi."

Naruto nods and stands up, as well. "I'll come, too. I got a lo-o-otta questions."

"Father?" Hinata turns to her… well, you know.

Hiashi answers without turning his head. "I'll come congratulate her once I witness who her opponent will be."

Arena Infirmary

Natsu Hyuga frets over Hanabi as she receives treatment. Ever since the heiress was a toddler, Natsu has been tasked with caring for her wellbeing aand making sure no harm was to befall her. Even after coming of age, Hanabi never did take on the regular duties that most other shinobi did. Her missions were mostly diplomatic, and any fighting was on a small scale and easily handled.

This is the first time Hanabi has been this injured. Her left hand, that took the Rasengan, is heavily bruised and already turning blue. She winces and hisses in pain as Sakura's Mystic Palm touches her skin, trying her best to not be too loud, not to pull back her hand. Trying her best not to appear weak.

Sakura sighs. "I don't know what you did but it was certainly reckless. The coat of chakra protected you to an extent but…" She takes the girl's hand and looks it over once more. "Releasing even further chakra for yout 64 Palms definitely didn't help."

Hanabi lowers her head. "Will I be able to fight in the finals?"

Natsu looks at her in distress. "Lady Hanabi! You needn't push yourself further! You can forfeit the finals. You displayed your abilities already, if you push yourself-"

"Natsu." Hanabi cuts her off, still with her head lowered and focusing on her hand. "If I was just going to give up, I may as well have allowed Konohamaru to win. I can't disgrace my village or my clan like this. Or him." She lifts her head to look Sakura in the eyes. "So, doctor, will I be able to fight in the finals?"

Sakura sighs. "So headstrong. I'd almost think you were related to Naruto instead of Hinata. It's a pretty serious injury. Even if I heal it to the best of my ability, it won't be in the best shape to fight."

"But it will be in a shape to fight?" Hanabi asks for clarification.

"It will." Sakura nods.

"Lady Hanabi…" Natsu whines, knowing her words would only fall on deaf ears.

At this point, there's a knock on the door. Sakura calls out for whoever it is to enter and Naruto and Hinata do just that.

"Hanabi." Hinata walks over and kneels in front of her sister, next to Sakura. She only then notices just how bruised her hand is. "Wha- your hand!"

"Yeah, it's nothing serious." Hanabi waves it off.

"It's quite serious." Sakura corrects her. "But it will heal in due time."

"That was one hell of a feat you pulled there." Naruto chuckles. "Don't think I've seen anyone block the Rasengan like that."

"And you can see the results." Sakura motions to the bruised hand.

"It was reckless but not something you really come up with in the heat of the moment." Hinata notes. "Have you been training to fight Konohamaru?"

"I mean, kind of, I suppose." Hanabi looks down. "In the heat of the moment, I remember something Neji once told me about the Revolving Heaven's weakness. I just… applied that on a smaller scale to the Rasengan."

Hinata looks at her in surprise. "Neji did?"

"Yeah. In the moment, the two jutsu looked so alike, I remembered his words."

"Must've been good words." Naruto smiles.

Hanabi bursts out laughing. "It was actually nonsense. But I think it makes sense now."

"Most things in life are like that." Hinata smiles.

Hanabi looks behind her sister toward the door. "Is father…"

"He said he'd come congratulate you when he knows who you'll face in the finals." Hinata answers the unasked question.

"But he said it in, like, a deeper voice." Naruto tries to lighten the mood.

"I'm sure he did." Hanabi chuckles. "Say, is… is Konohamaru awake yet?"

"Dunno." Naruto shrugs. "I sent a Clone to check up on him. I'll go there myself in a bit."

Hinata cocks her head. "Concerned? Even thought you were so overly aggressive in the arena. I don't think I've seen you like that."

"That's… well…" Hanabi grumbles. "He's just so irritating! I couldn't help myself… But he showed he's competent as a shinobi, at least." She looks away.

Sakura smirks and shares a look with Hinata. "Right. Of course." She stands up and walks back to where Naruto is. "I'll go check up on Konohamaru and then come back to start your treatment. Until then, keep your arm relaxed, alright? Don't move too much?"

Naruto looks deep in thought.

"Don't sprain a muscle." Sakura nudges him with an elbow.

"You think my chakra could help?" Naruto asks, unphased by the nudging.

Sakura raises a brow. "Your chakra? Why would… Oh!" She recalls the strengthening effect his chakra had back during the Fourth War. "That… would actually speed her recovery up exponentially. But I'd need you around often for the treatments."

"That's fine. I can be everywhere at once, remember?" He grins in response.

"I can't ask you to do that!" Hanabi jumps from her seat. The moment she does, she winces in pain from moving her hand too much.

Natsu reaches over to aid her in sitting back down, taking special care with the hand.

"It's fine." Naruto reassures her. "It's least I could do since we're gonna be family, y'know?"

Hinata blushes at the declaration, earning a chuckle from Hanabi.

"Thank you, Naruto." Hinata smiles.

Sakura pats him on the back. "Look at you, being so forward. Come on, let's see how your protégé is doing."

-x-

A couple of rooms over, Konohamaru stirs away in his bed. When he opens his eyes he's met by an unfamiliar white ceiling but when he turns his head, he's at least met by two familiar faces- Sakura and Naruto.

Naruto is leaning against the wall while Sakura goes over the results given to her by the medics who took care of him before.

He tries to move but grunts in pain, now noticing his bandaged body.

Sakura whips her head around and immediately places a hand on his chest, stopping him from getting up. "Don't."

"Ugh, I lost, didn't I?" The boy leans back on his pillow.

"You did." Naruto nods. "But you fought damn good."

Konohamaru sighs. "Not good enough."

"It's early to tell." Sakura walks over to begin examining his wounds. "Remember, the point of the Chunin Exams isn't to win, it's to showcase your abilities."

"Is losing an ability?" He continues to sulk.

Naruto rubs the back of his head. "Ey, come on, since when are you the kinda guy to get down like this?"

"She's the one person I didn't wanna lose to! Now she'll be even more insufferable!" He whines.

Sakura chuckles. "Maybe not as much as you expect."

"You don't know her, sis. She might act all noble and kind but she's not! Acting all high and mighty..." He mumbles.

"Maybe you just bring out that side of her." Sakura looks back to Naruto. "Something you two have in common." She then stands up and pats the boy on the arm. "You'll be fine after you rest."

"And hey! You actually managed to use the Rasengan one-handed! That's awesome!" Naruto grins. "That the surprise you were so eager to show-off? You never told me you managed to do it."

Konohamaru gives a nervous laugh. "Yeeah. I've been training real hard on it but it wasn't the trump card I was hoping."

"Maybe not now. But in the future? It's gonna kick a lot of ass! You know we now gotta train with the Rasengan even more, right?" Naruto grins.

His young friend returns the grin. "Definitely."

You gonna be fine for now?" Naruto asks.

Konohamaru gives a thumbs up. "Don't worry 'bout me, boss. I'm made of tough stuff. I'll be witcha soon."

Once Sakura makes sure he's recovering well, she and Naruto leave Konohamaru along with his thoughts. Once the door shuts, Konohamaru's smile drops and he focuses intently on his right hand, gathering only a small amount of swirling chakra before releasing it.

Shinobi Union Chunin Exams semi-final

Umai of the Hidden Cloud vs. Sharo Erimaki of the Hidden Stone

With Hanabi Hyuga already decided as the first finalist, it's time to announce the second Genin who'll fight to the end.

Umai stands tall, assured in her abilities. She's wearing plain dark clothes, contrasted by traditional white Cloud arm and leg warmers.

In front of her is a smaller girl with short green, just barely going below her, a green hair hoop, and her headband around her neck. By her side is a frill-neck lizard, that reaches her waist, that hisses at Umai.

As before, Genma Shiranui mediates the match, laying the ground rules and signaling the start of the fight.

The two Genin fight well and they fight evenly enough. Umai has to fend off two opponents at once but she does well with her Lightning Style.

The lizard proves very swift and slippery but so does Umai.

Sharo switches regularly between taijutsu and Earth-Style, which she uses mainly for defence and creating obstacles, which are no match for the Lightning Style but they create enough of a diversion to be annoying. Both Sharo and her lizard are skilled at jumping through and around debris which makes them formidable even when the Earth ninjutsu falls.

Ultimately, however, the lightning catches up with them. Umai tricks her opponent into thinking she's going to use a powerful Lightning ninjustu on the lizard, prompting Sharo to protect it. The Cloud Genin takes advantage of the momentary distraction and shifts her focus to a smaller scale ninjutsu, changing the target from the lizard to Sharo herself.

The Stone Genin falls, leaving the lizard on its own with little defence or support. It's felled soon after, leaving…

"Umai of the Hidden Cloud wins!" Genma Flickers down to announce the victor.

Two medical teams immediately rush out to tend to take Sharo Erimaki and her lizard to the infirmary. Sakura Haruno, as head of the medical unit, and Hana Inuzuka, as chief veterinarian, await for their patients to arrive.

Between the semi-finals and the finals, there's a two-day period for rest and recuperation, giving the last two contestants enough time to regain their energy from the previous bouts. During this time, Hanabi focuses entirely on healing her arm, with the full support of Sakura's healing and Naruto's chakra.

The Shinobi Union has shown each other what they have to offer in terms of young talent and the leaders are progressing in their negotiations. The way things are going, this might just be a success.

Trivia

Erimaki Sharo is from the 'Chūnin Exam on Fire! Naruto vs. Konohamaru!' OVA. There, her first name is Erimaki, and her last name is Sharo. I flipped it around on purpose because I prefer that name for a clan that fights alongside Frill-Neck Lizard.

Author's Notes

In true Naruto fashion, I added a flashback in the middle of combat. Keeping it real.