Disclaimer: I do not own the Naruto Franchise that belongs solely to Masashi Kishimoto; I do not own Heaven's lost Property, High School DxD or any other Anime I borrow themes from. The only thing I claim is my OC's and original Story Plot.
Author's Note (A/N): Hey guys. I'm back again and with the final chapter of the preliminary round matches. This is it. The one month break starts next chapter and as we all know our lovable Toad Sage makes his official debut instead of just cameos. This isn't a chapter to skip out on as a few more little surprises are tucked away within here for both you and the characters themselves. For one thing, Naruto seems to just not be able to catch a break; even when he isn't the one even fighting. The world isn't done with him just yet.
Kakashi gets some love and attention in this chapter as well as our favorite snake duo. Orochimaru and Kabuto are going to be sipping some tea while having a nice bad guy conversation. I will also be giving a particular character some limelight in this chapter as their role became much more expansive than thought possible. Tattoo's they can mean so much for just being a little bit of ink on skin...
All of that and more is in this chapter so sit back relax and enjoy.
Chapter 48
Elimination Match: 11-13 Supremacy
Things were winding down. Only 3 matches left. Naruto was trying to take his mind off of things by focusing on the LED board on the wall as it chose the names of its next competitors. The names were chosen and Naruto raised his eyebrows in mild surprise.
[Chōji Akimichi vs. Dosu Kinuta]
Not what he was expecting but it was better than facing off against the remaining members of either the Hidden Cloud or Hidden Stone Genin teams. Now that he thought about it Naruto thought it highly suspicious that the two Genin teams were pitted against each other and none other throughout this entire preliminary stage. If the process was truly random then the chance of the Hidden Stone and Cloud only facing each other was extremely slim to none. Naruto suspected foul play on his own villages part but he couldn't necessarily fault them. High levels of politics were at play, he was sure of it.
"Will the next two participants please come down." Hayate requested as he went into a brief coughing fit. He looked like he needed to be in a hospital instead of proctoring an important exam such as this but Naruto knew looks could be deceiving and that the Special Jōnin was more than what he appeared to be.
Dosu wasted no time in getting to the battle floor below as his hunched over form stood out amongst his unique physique. Chōji on the other hand took some serious coaxing and convincing by his teammates and sensei before he finally worked up the nerve to go down the battle floor. "Be careful Chōji, remember he uses sound based Ninjutsu that comes from his gauntlet." Shikamaru advised his best friend as Lee was gracious enough to let the rookie Genin know of Dosu's unique ability when everyone got to the tower. Naruto never overheard this since he was in a deep conversation with Hinata at the time. To know that he lost control again unnerved him and the fact he hurt his friends and even Hinata made Naruto feel ashamed of himself.
"You may begin." Hayate called as he took a few steps back. Chōji knowing of Dosu's abilities instantly went on the offensive. "Expansion Jutsu!" Chōji called out as his body bloated until it was nearly four times its original size. The food loving Akimichi tucked his limbs and head into the rest of his body as he curled himself up into a ball. "Human Boulder!" Taking off with a burst of chakra Chōji tried to flatten Dosu who casually dodged Chōji's attacks one after the other. Chōji was fast but with his size and the fact the field was severely damaged it limited his overall mobility. Something Dosu took full advantage off when Chōji slammed into the wall in an out of control manner.
Seeing his chance to end the match quickly Dosu slammed his gauntlet covered arm into Chōji's body. "You can't affect me with your Jutsu if my ears are covered." Chōji taunted as he tried to pry himself out of the wall. "It doesn't matter. Resonating Echo Drill!" Dosu tapped the side of his gauntlet and several vibrating pulses of sound waves rippled across Chōji's entire body knocking the boy out instantly. Chōji's body deflated back to its original size as he dropped to the floor with drool dripping out of his mouth.
"It's over already?" Ino mumbled as she stared down at her teammate. "The human body is made up of 70% water and water can transmit sound waves. So, that means for anyone I come up against I can make their body one giant ear for me to exploit." Dosu mocked as he walked away from Chōji's unconscious form.
"Chōji Akimichi is unable to continue the match due to knockout. Therefore, the winner of the tenth preliminary match and applicant to move on to the finals is Dosu Kinuta." Hayate officiated as the match took a startling 1 minute and 15 seconds to start and end. It was the fastest match in the entire prelims.
"Ok… now moving on." Hayate drawled out as he got a signal from the Hokage to hurry along the rest of the matches. Believe it or not they had a schedule to keep. The LED board lit up once again and this time it didn't take long at all to choose the next two opponents.
[Kurotsuchi Suiseki vs. Omoi Seiteki]
This was interesting to quite a few people of interest in the room. Mainly Hiruzen who was smoking from his pipe at the moment. 'Kurotsuchi is the granddaughter of Ōnoki. Why would he send his own granddaughter to these Chūnin Exams? He hates the Land of Fire and the Hidden Leaf with a passion.' It struck Hiruzen as odd that Ōnoki the Third Tsuchikage himself would send his own granddaughter to the one country in the world he hates the most just for the Chūnin Exams which wasn't even necessary for a Genin to be promoted to Chūnin. Not to mention the fact that his granddaughter in particular would be fast tracked and promoted for the fame of her village.
Kurotsuchi was a short girl with short black hair and black eyes dressed primarily in various shades of red and brown with a red headband displaying the symbol of her village proudly. The symbol of the Hidden Stone Village. There was a peculiar aura about her. She was strong, definitely not someone to be messed with.
Jumping over the railing the proud Kunoichi had a small smirk on her face as she glanced up at the teams on the Hidden Leaf's side. But she was looking at one person in particular; and as no surprise it was Naruto. 'Why is she looking at me? Heck, why is everyone so interested in me?' Naruto thought in both confusion and annoyance as he knew multiple participants in the room where interested in him. She smirked a little more at Naruto before looking over to her opponent who was now standing lazily across from her.
Omoi was a dark skin young man with stark white hair which was a fairly common trait in the Land of Lightning. He had a lollipop of all things in his mouth and was wearing predominately black, grey, and white clothing's and a white headband proudly displaying the symbol of the Hidden Cloud Village.
"I'm going to get this over with quickly." Kurotsuchi said as she put a hand to her hip. "If I don't beat this girl I'll get chewed out by Karui, if she chews me out then I'll never hear the end of it, if I never hear the end of it…" Omoi was rambling to himself with a nervous sweat breaking out across his face as he was tuning out the world around him. "…Hey, are you even paying attention to me!?" Kurotsuchi yelled indignantly as she was a considerably short-tempered girl by nature, she was 13 in a half years old almost 14 and she was more of a tomboy than a feminine girl.
"I'm sorry, I get nervous easily and…" Omoi started to apologize but he was again cut off by Kurotsuchi who's eyebrow was twitching in annoyance. Her arms were crossed over her chest as her whole posture gave off the not so vague sense of annoyance and irritation. She wanted her fight to be over quickly. "I'm not here to talk… I'm here to fight so let's get to it." Kurotsuchi made her stance on why she was at the Chūnin Exams very clear. She wasn't here to make friends.
"Okay, you may begin." Hayate announced as he jumped far back to the raised stage as the two Genin sprang into action. The hidden stone kunoichi threw several volleys of shuriken and kunai at Omoi who quickly drew his sword that was strapped to his back. Many ninjas in the Hidden Cloud were specialist in Kenjutsu and swordplay. One second there were kunai and shuriken coming at the young swordsmen and the next second they were all either deflected away or sliced in half. Omoi was a quick draw with his sword.
Kurotsuchi didn't waste any time as she closed the distance between her and her opponent in seconds as she attacked him at close range with a pair of kunai. Omoi proved to be better at close range with his sword giving him a huge edge as he was blocking both of her kunai at the same time. Chaining in several kicks and roundhouse kicks into her attack sequence Kurotsuchi was attempting to overwhelm Omoi's defenses but he was holding strong as he also used the flat side of his sword's blade to block her kicks. He wasn't looking to maim her, just pure defense of himself.
Deciding to gain some distance Kurotsuchi jumped back as Omoi channeled lightning nature chakra through his sword. Landing behind an uprooted piece of rock Kurotsuchi was about to make a move when Omoi decided to cut the rock in half with his sword stopping whatever move the kunoichi was going to make. "I don't think so!" Omoi challenged as he attempted to cut Kurotsuchi in half. She learned not to get close after one of her kunai she brought up to defend herself with was cut cleanly in half. "Earth Style: Earth Flowing Mud River Jutsu!" Going through a chain of hand signs Kurotsuchi turned the ground beneath her feet into a raging river of mud that stopped Omoi in his tracks. It was a jarring feeling as Omoi felt all of his traction disappear in an instant as he started to slide back and become swept up in the muds powerful current.
Kurotsuchi wasn't done yet however, she was a girl who liked overwhelming offense and whenever she had an advantage she pressed it and took full advantage of the opportunity given to her. She never liked to waste time. "Earth Style: Earth Dragon Bomb Jutsu!" A large dragon shaped head formed out of the mud river and opened its wide maw which was nearly as tall as Kurotsuchi was. Several basketball sized balls of mud were launched at Omoi who started to cut the projectiles in half while streaming lightning nature chakra all along his sword which was chaining across the multiple mud projectiles coming at him. "I'm not done yet!" Kurotsuchi remarked as she tacked on yet another Jutsu to her continuous attack. It was a remarkable feat as it's not easy to keep up with and manage the three-different chakra flows that the individual techniques require while maintaining the power behind the attacks.
"That's very impressive. She's just chaining more and more attacks on non-stop." Shikamaru commented as he knew that was no easy feat to accomplish. "No kidding, I could do that but I'd need my shadow clones to do that for me." Naruto agreed as he was captivated so far by this fight.
"Earth Style: Earth Flow Spears Jutsu!" Turning the mud flowing beneath their feet into solid spears of mud and earth Kurotsuchi was determined to overwhelm Omoi. 'She's relentless, I better act fast!' Omoi thought as he went in for his first offensive Jutsu. He only had seconds to act as the spears were fast approaching. "Lightning Style: Shockwave Jutsu!" Thrusting his sword into the mud river at his feet Omoi discharged a large wave of electricity in every direction that obliterated the incoming onslaught of Earth based ninjutsu that was giving him such a hard time. "Now it's my turn!" Omoi challenged as he tightened his gripped on his sword. Jumping into the air Omoi came in with tremendous speeds. "Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Crescent Moon Slice!"
Omoi came in with a powerful swing of his sword that left a trail of light blue light in its wake. "Earth Style: Earth Wall Jutsu!" It was a snap decision by Kurotsuchi as a concrete slab raised up off the floor right as Omoi's attack came into range. The slab of concrete was cut clean in half within seconds but it did its job. It took the hit for Kurotsuchi. "Not bad… but not good enough!" The tomboy taunted as she came up with an idea to neutralize Omoi's usage of Lightning Style Ninjutsu. Shoulder tackling Omoi before he could swing his sword back around Kurotsuchi unleashed a brutal Taijutsu assault on the sword wielding Genin who was now starting to feel the pressure. "Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Reverse Slice!" Omoi chanted as he swung his sword in a reverse slicing movement that caught Kurotsuchi off guard. She received a shallow cut to the shirt she was wearing as she just barely managed to dodge out of the way of the very fast-moving sword.
"Ok, maybe you're not so bad." Kurotsuchi corrected as she smirked a bit. She liked a challenge. "I'm full of surprises." Omoi admitted as he got into his Kenjutsu stance. It was a bold stance as he came charging in this time putting the kunoichi on her back foot as she couldn't properly defend herself against Omoi's lightning covered sword which he was making excellent use of. Kurotsuchi was a competent kunoichi and while her Taijutsu was very impressive her strongest attribute and subject had always been Ninjutsu. With her larger than average chakra reserves and considering she's the granddaughter to the Third Tsuchikage it was no surprise she already had a large library of ninjutsu under her command. She was known as the strongest Genin in her village for a reason. She was already considered Chūnin Level in all but official rank but the reason she was sent to this year's Chūnin exams was much different.
Pushing Omoi back with another river of mud Kurotsuchi banked on another Jutsu. Her strongest and most versatile Earth Style Ninjutsu in her arsenal, but definitely not the strongest Jutsu she knew. "Earth Style: Golem Jutsu!" The girl yelled as a noticeable dip in her Chakra could be detected by those adept at sensing chakra. A large golem creature made out of the concrete slabs around the room formed in front of Omoi. It was 8 feet tall and was humanoid in shape with a bulkier upper body and a slimmer torso and lower body. It was quite top heavy with a sunken in head. The crevices in between the rocks were dripping mud as it was acting like a glue holding the construct together and a light sheen of mud and dirt was coating the entire golem's body. It was a really dirty monster. "Crap!" Omoi seethed as he quickly dodged a heavy punch from the golem that tore through an upturned bolder with ease.
"No way… I've never seen anything like that." Naruto commented as he and the other Genin were understandably shocked to see such a unique technique. Naruto took notice of the noticeable dip in Kurotsuchi's chakra reserves so he knew that this technique was taxing. "Oh, this brings back memories…" Asuma chuckled as he exhaled a cloud of nicotine filled smoke from his mouth. "You've seen this technique before Asuma Sensei?" Ino asked before Shikamaru could as the lazy Nara clan heir was intrigued by what his sensei had to say. "Ha! We all have. We saw this technique from the strong and skilled Jōnin of the Hidden Stone all the time back during the Third Great Shinobi World War. It was a pesky technique to deal with since it's so versatile in attacking, defending, and supplementary support type roles. The only downsides to the user is the cost of chakra to maintain the technique and the fact that it makes itself a big target." Asuma explained as he alluded to the fact he and his fellow Jōnin all encountered this technique back during the war. Kakashi nodded in agreement to this as he remembered those times as well.
"Sounds like this is her trump card then… it's impressive that she knows such an advanced technique." Ino commented but when she didn't hear a reply she turned to Shikamaru to see him and Naruto with contemplative looks on their faces. "What's wrong guys?" She questioned with confusion evident in her eyes. "I don't think this is her trump card. It's definitely one of her strongest attacks maybe but not her trump card. She's hiding something." Naruto explained as he couldn't shake the feeling that Kurotsuchi was hiding something.
Taking the overwhelming offensive Kurotsuchi directed her golem to attack Omoi which it did as it smashed up the already broken floor with Omoi doing his best to dodge the deadly blows. Omoi saw his chance when the Golem launched a heavy punch at him that shook the ground where he stood. He substituted with a large rock right at his feet as he slipped past the Golem and attacked Kurotsuchi in a smooth flourish as he came flowing right out of the quickly timed Substitution Jutsu. "Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Deception Slice!" Flowing from the momentum of the substitution Omoi nearly took Kurotsuchi's head clean off if she wasn't on her guard. Luckily, she was as she was able to again just barely dodge the attack while jumping over Omoi's head. Lashing out with a kick the tomboyish girl forced Omoi away from her as she landed on top of her golem's head. She got out of there relatively unharmed but her shirt took some more punishment as her left sleeve was cut off from Omoi's attack.
"That was close…" Sakura commented as Kurotsuchi checked her sleeve. "You ruined my shirt… now I've got to take you out." Channeling more chakra into her Jutsu Kurotsuchi had the Golem go in for a heavy punch that would flatten Omoi if it would land. The cloud Genin had different plans however. "Lightning Style: Static Jutsu." Omoi made two hand signs as his body was covered in a light layer of static electricity. The fist slammed directly into Omoi who blocked it with his sword. "Lightning Style: Discharge Jutsu!" Omoi took all of the stored-up electricity inside his body and surged it directly though the Golem's body paralyzing the entire construct and forcing it to stop moving. Most of the mud was burned off by the electricity as Omoi saw his chance to destroy the rock golem.
With the golem paralyzed Omoi made a familiar hand sign along with a few others as two Shadow Clones formed next to him. All three of them disappeared as they appeared above Kurotsuchi who hissed in annoyance. Jumping off at the last second Kurotsuchi landed on the railings of the balconies above just in time as Omoi and his two clones descended upon the Golem simultaneously. "Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Havoc Group Slice!" All three Omoi's slashed into the Golem's body while surging their electricity into the monster. "Lightning Style: Team Thunder Bomb Jutsu!"
The Golem didn't stand a chance. The entire construct broke apart instantly as a massive surge of electricity and bolts of lightning disintegrated the rock golem until it was nothing else. Static electricity shrouded the air as Omoi and his two clones turned to face Kurotsuchi who was peering down at him with a calculating yet cocky smirk. Naruto on the other hand felt his heart skip a beat and not in the good way. He could almost say his heart stopped completely. Kurotsuchi was crouched on the railing and her sleeve was exposed. But it was what was on the girl's shoulder that caught Naruto's attention. It was a tattoo… and not just any kind of tattoo. It was the exact same type of tattoo that he had on his shoulder. But instead of the tattoo of the Jasmine Dragon Mafia she had the symbol of Hotel Moscow. The Mafia of the Hidden Stone. It was depicted as a hammer and sickle striking against the Hidden Stone's symbol.
Time slowed down as Kurotsuchi caught Naruto's shocked look. She sent him a cocky smirk before rocketing off the balcony to re-engage Omoi who was coming after her. That entire exchange took less than a second but for Naruto it felt like an eternity. 'That was no coincidence. This is Balalaika's doing. Did she send this team here to watch me during the prelims?' Naruto questioned inside the privacy of his own mind as he couldn't figure out what the elusive and mysterious Kingpin of the Hidden Stone's Mafia true motives were. She was heavily interested in him for some strange reason outside of his understanding and he knew she would not leave him alone until she finally got whatever it is she was looking for.
Slamming into the ground Kurotsuchi kicked up a cloud of dust as Omoi's two clones came in and managed to impale the kunoichi before she could do anything. There was a brief pause but it was soon over as Kurotsuchi suddenly lashed out and grabbed both clones by the throat snapping their necks without a moment of hesitation but in doing so they both burst into a cloud of electricity shocking her and while many thought that this would turn out to be an advantage for Omoi they were quickly proven wrong when that Kurotsuchi burst into a puddle of mud showing that it was a clone. Omoi's clones were actually lightning based Shadow clones called the Lightning Style: Shadow Clone Jutsu while Kurotsuchi's was the earth based variant called the Earth Style: Shadow Clone Jutsu. They were difficult to make and handle but they had their own unique properties and advantages in battle.
"She's incredible with her Earth Style Ninjutsu. I didn't think I'd see such prowess with elemental ninjutsu from a Genin like that." Kakashi commented as it was apparent that Kurotsuchi was already Chūnin level and her talent for pure Ninjutsu was through the roof which was to be completely expected given who her father was and who her grandfather was. Not to mention her Great-Grandfather. She comes from a long line of powerful ninjutsu focused shinobi who are all extremely powerful and well feared and respected.
Said girl popped up out of the ground behind Omoi who was expecting such a move. The boy nearly succeeded in taking Kurotsuchi's head clean off with another one of his reverse slice attacks as she back flipped away from the skilled swordsmen. She needed a big distraction to pull off the victory she had in mind. Taking a portion of her remaining chakra left which was already pretty big for a girl her age she created another Golem to serve as nothing but a distraction as she started to mold her chakra for her big finish. Seeing the golem coming at him Omoi took a sizable portion of his remaining chakra left to confront the walking pile of rocks. "Lightning Style: Thunder Bolt Jutsu!" Twin orbs of powerful electricity came to life in Omoi's hands as they sent bolts of lightning flying everywhere. Omoi slammed his palms down into the Golem with such force that it shattered the construct before it could do much damage.
"Now to get rid of that Lightning Style of yours!" Kurotsuchi chanted as she finished one sequence of hand signs. She had many more to go. "Water Style: Wild Water Wave Jutsu!" It came in quick as Kurotsuchi spewed out a wave of water that pushed Omoi across the room drenching his clothes. With Omoi's body drenched in water it made it impossible for him to call upon any lightning based ninjutsu which was a huge disadvantage for him since he didn't have a second chakra nature like Kurotsuchi had. "Now it's all over!" Kurotsuchi declared as she closed the distance between the two and rocked Omoi with a thunderous punch across the face that sent him flying into the wall underneath the balconies.
"Corrosion Style: Quicklime Congealing Jutsu!" Kurotsuchi went through a set of unfamiliar hand signs as she spat out a glob of greyish white tar that splattered across Omoi's body who was laying against the wall. "Water Style: Water Trumpet Jutsu!" One after the other Kurotsuchi released a high pressurized jet of water from her mouth that impacted the quicklime on Omoi's body hardening it and as a byproduct also fusing him to the wall like quick drying cement.
It was over. Omoi's entire body was fused to the wall with a mold of plaster cement covering his entire body. He wouldn't be able to move even if he tried. Hayate took one look at Omoi and sighed. He enjoyed that match. "Omoi of the Hidden Cloud is unable to continue the match due to incapacitation. Therefore, the winner and applicant to move on to the final round is Kurotsuchi of the Hidden Stone." Hayate announced as he waved his hand in Kurotsuchi's direction.
"Corrosion Style? What's that?" Sakura asked as she turned to Kakashi who had a raised eyebrow. Naruto was about to ask the same question as he's never heard of it before. "Corrosion Style is the sub ability of the Lava Style Nature based Kekkei Genkai. Lava style as you can imagine is composed of both Fire and Earth Nature Chakra and it gives a user control over lava and its many unique properties. Depending on how you use this Kekkei Genkai you can produce different results. It's one of the most powerful nature based Kekkei Genkai in the world because of how versatile it is; it's also the only one with a subset." Kakashi started his explanation as he got into a lecturing tone. "So, she has three chakra natures? Is that even possible?" Sakura questioned as she's never heard of such a thing before. "Yes, Sakura this girl has Earth, Fire, and Water Chakra Nature abilities. It's uncommon for one's as young as you guys to have so many but for those born with a Nature Based Kekkei Genkai then they are born with at least two affinities. An unspoken requirement to become a Jōnin is to have mastered your primary chakra nature affinity and to at least be at a very high level in a secondary nature. It's not a full requirement but it's to be expected of you to know your ninjutsu. Lord Hokage has a primary affinity for Fire Style and a secondary for Earth but he's mastered all five nature affinities over the many years he's been alive. He could pull out a jutsu from each element at any time he wants." Kakashi explained which shocked the Genin who did not know about this. Even Neji who was still as silent as ever showed mild amount of shock.
Naruto knew about Hiruzen's tremendous skills already but it still baffles him everytime he hears just how powerful the Third Hokage really is, even in his old age. "It sounds pretty powerful already but what's this subset you're talking about?" Shikamaru questioned as he was highly interested in this subject. Seeing this as his que to continue Kakashi did just that.
"Corrosion Style takes the attributes of its originator and allows you to produce various corrosive substances that can be used in different ways. Each village that has clans of shinobi who can use Lava Style have their own unique version to this. For those in the Land of Earth and the Hidden Stone Village when they use Corrosion Style they can make quicklime and other tar like substances including cement. In the Land of Lightning and Hidden Cloud Village they can create rubber and other vulcanized tar like substances and in the Land of Water and in the Hidden Mist Village they can make corrosive acids and tar. It's a highly unique Kekkei Genkai with a million different variants and uses so I have no doubt in my mind that this young girl can also use its base original form as well and create lava." Kakashi explained as he was silently impressed with Kurotsuchi's performance. He knew she was already Chūnin Level and was quite gifted if her display was anything was to go by. He could also tell she was a bit of a show off. There was no reason to drag the fight on as long as she did and definitely no reason to reveal the fact she had a nature based Kekkei Genkai, especially one as unique and powerful as Lava Style.
That explanation gave Naruto a lot to think about as he briefly thought about his own Ice Style Kekkei Genkai that he received from being bonded with Eva all of these years. However, his mind was drawn to something more important than her powerful Kekkei Genkai. 'That was pretty intense. They got straight to the point. But to think that this girl is a part of Hotel Moscow. I have no doubt that she knows who I really am. That look she gave me can only mean one thing.' Naruto thought as he watched Hayate break Omoi out of his confines. He was pretty groggy but other than that he would make a full recovery. From what he could sense Omoi was running on fumes as far as chakra was concerned. He had about enough to perform maybe a few substitutions and transformations but not much else. He would pass out from chakra exhaustion if he pushed himself any further. Kurotsuchi on the other hand had at least the capacity of a low to mid-level Genin left. She could pull out a few more elemental ninjutsu if she really needed to before succumbing to her exhaustion. It just went to showcase just how large her chakra capacity is for a supposed Genin. She was undoubtedly a Chūnin already in everything but name much like Naruto and a few others.
Hayate didn't waste any time as he called down the last two competitors. It would seem they wanted the preliminary matches to come to an end. That was fine by Naruto as he's felt they've dragged on for far too long. He was ready to leave this place and more importantly go check in on Hinata. He also wanted to see how the rest of his injured classmates were like Sasuke, Rock Lee, and Kiba.
[Karui Nimbasu vs. Akatsuchi Suiseki]
Karui was a dark skinned young girl just like her teammate Omoi. Unlike him however, she had burgundy red hair that was very shaggy and spiky that trailed down her back. She also had amber colored eyes as opposed to Omoi's black ones. She was wearing a dress with various colors of greys, black, and white just like her teammates. She also had an identical sword strapped to her back just like Omoi and judging by the way they were standing close to each other before their matches it was safe to assume that they were close and probably had excellent tag team style team work skills especially since they wielded identical weapons and were on the same team.
Akatsuchi on the other hand was a big boy with some weight on him. He had dark eyes and black hair that spikes out at the back from underneath his bandanna-styled forehead protector. He also has large cheeks, and a plump nose which give him an overall look of constant joviality. Around his neck he was wearing a visible and very prominent yellow scarf that was quite long.
This match passed by much quicker with Karui eventually managing to pull out a narrow victory against Akatsuchi but now without a tremendous amount of effort. Akatsuchi proved to be just as formidable as his sister Kurotsuchi. His control over the earth golem Jutsu was certainly much more present verses his sisters as he was able to produce up to three golems that Karui had to fight against. His Taijutsu was also top notch as his speed was quite deceptive when you compare it to his overall body size. He was able to keep up with Karui who proved to be every bit as talented as her partner Omoi with a sword. She used many of the same Kenjutsu techniques proving it to be an actual style with many practitioners as well as a few lightning style ninjutsu with some of them being the same ones Omoi used while a few were different.
In the end Karui pulled off a narrow victory as she was able to outlast Akatsuchi by just a pinch. He exhausted himself trying to keep up with her better mobility and speed while also trying to maintain his multiple Golems. In retrospect, it also made it extremely hard for Karui to get anywhere close to Akatsuchi with that many golems protecting him and whenever she did he would have no qualms about attacking her with his fist encased in rock to block her sword strikes. While the match didn't last as long as Kurotsuchi's and Omoi's it did come down to the wire and Akatsuchi just lost with a heavily exhausted Karui standing above him.
"Akatsuchi of the Hidden Stone is unable to continue the match due to knock out. Therefore, the winner and applicant moving on to the final round is Karui of the Hidden Cloud." Hayate announced as he coughed heavily into his hands. It was finally over. All of the preliminary matches were over now.
"I hereby call the Preliminary Elimination Rounds for the Third Stage of the Chūnin Exams over. Will all the winning participants please come down to the stage below." Hayate announced as he stood on the raised platform while Hiruzen silently transported himself back down to the arena floor with a subtle Body Flicker Jutsu. It took only a few moments for the winning fighters to come down to stand before the Hokage and Hayate. Everyone else stayed on the balconies above.
"This year's preliminary matches have been exceedingly brutal and lengthy. Much more so than any other time a preliminary elimination round had to be held. With that being said, I commend all of you for making it this far and advancing to the Third Round of the Chūnin Selection Exams." Hayate announced as the Genin lined up in a solid line before the Hokage. Hiruzen was gazing out at the Genin assembled before him as he thought of the future matches. 'Before me stands 5 Genin from my village, 3 from the Hidden Sand, 1 from the Hidden Sound, 2 from the Hidden Cloud, and 1 from the Hidden Stone. This is quite the turnout. It also helps that we managed to minimize the Cloud and Stone's presence in the future matches. Politics can be so tedious sometimes.' The old Kage thought as he exhaled a cloud of smoke from his pipe.
"Sensei I have a question…" Sakura asked as she stood next to Kakashi. "Is this about Sasuke?" The copy ninja was quick to reply. "Yes, and about Naruto I suppose." Sakura clarified as she had the decency to add Naruto to her inquiry. "Well I'm afraid I don't know much about their situations… but I wouldn't worry too much. They're going to be just fine. Now if you'll excuse me I have something urgent to take care off. You'll have to fill me in on the details of the final rounds later." Kakashi said in an aloof manner as he disappeared in a lightning fast Body Flicker Jutsu. It was much quicker than usual, it was as if he was in a rush. Guy noticed this as he was still in his own depression about Lee's condition.
Kakashi saw the Jōnin for the Hidden Sound Genin team leave the room earlier after Dosu's fight and he had a bad feeling in his gut that spurred him into action. He didn't know what it was about that guy but something about him was way off. He felt somewhat familiar, but Kakashi couldn't quite put his finger on it and that's what worried him the most. It couldn't possibly be a coincidence. Coincidences like that don't happen in the Shinobi world.
In the Village
"The preliminary rounds are finished. They're moving on to the Third Round." Kabuto reported as he and the Sound Jōnin were looking over a balcony at the rest of the village. The Sound Jōnin was none other than Orochimaru himself who had a pleased look on his face. "Good, while the Shinobi villages are focused on building up their military and economical might it will give us the perfect opportunity to strike. I believe my former village has been at peace for far too long." Orochimaru said with amusement in his voice as he watched a family of bird's rest in their nest.
"Then give me the order." Kabuto insisted. "I don't know… how much fun would it be to take out an old man like the Hokage anyways… it's meaningless." Orochimaru wistfully stated as a peculiar look was in his eyes. It was a faraway look that you don't often see him having.
"Are you having doubts Lord Orochimaru. You're having second thoughts about killing your master." Kabuto noted with interest but that smirk was wiped off his face when Orochimaru gave him a bone chilling glare. "You have an uncanny ability to be quite perceptive, it's a blessing and a curse. Quite the double-edged sword, if you're not careful it can be your undoing. Remember that well Kabuto and never take that tone with me again." Orochimaru threatened casually as he watched a bead of sweat roll down Kabuto's cheek.
"Yes, forgive me my lord. It won't happen again." Kabuto quickly apologized as he recomposed himself. "If we go through with our plan it would plunge the villages into a state of chaos once again. Hostilities will grow and the balance maintained by the Five Great Nations will be disturbed. With the death of the Third Hokage who is the second longest reigning Kage in history it would spur the other countries to act. Even the Hidden Sound Village wouldn't be able to escape the conflict to come and with no capable shinobi strong enough to take up the mantle of Hokage the leaf will begin to collapse." Kabuto analyzed as he thought of the repercussions his master's plan would have on the world. Taking out Hiruzen Sarutobi is no small act. It would almost certainly mean war on the horizon. The Professors habit of negotiating peace and his unrivaled ability to lead the village throughout all three Great Ninja Wars was a massive testament to his legacy and presence in the Ninja world even if he was newly appointed as the Third Hokage in the waning days of the First Shinobi World War.
"While that is true the village has strong roots keeping it afloat. It will not be easy to bring this village to its knees." Orochimaru eluded mysteriously with a short sneer as he thought of a particular man close to the Hokage. He also thought of another who supports the Hokage with his massive financial network of money and his ability to control crime within the entire country. Both elderly men were people Orochimaru would rather not mess with. Together the three old men even in their old age are virtually unstoppable. Orochimaru would never dare face all three at once under any circumstances unless he had at least a hundred back up plans and even then, they wouldn't make him feel all that confident.
"What are your plans for Sasuke Uchiha?" Kabuto questioned as fixed his glasses. "The curse mark that I gave him was sealed off by Kakashi. But that doesn't concern me much… as long as there is some darkness still in his heart we must act on it quickly. It's for that very reason why I want you to abduct him." Orochimaru concluded as he thought of how he wanted to progress his future plans with the time window he was given. "It's not like you to act so hastily my lord." Kabuto noted but he saw Orochimaru's facial expression change.
"Perhaps… but there is still one other variable that concerns me." Orochimaru admitted with the smallest of sighs. "Is it Naruto Uzumaki?" Kabuto guessed as he hit the nail on the head. He was a very perceptive young man. "Humph. You're quite perceptive Kabuto. It's downright creepy sometimes but yes, it is Naruto Uzumaki that concerns me." Orochimaru admitted as he sighed. He continued on though as he articulated his concerns. "Sasuke is driven by revenge. It burns in his heart to make Itachi pay for what he did to the Uchiha Clan. However, back in the forest he came at me with no hesitation at all and no fear of death. He did it to save his teammate and to reunite with Naruto. However, what concerns me most is what happened when Naruto instead showed up." Orochimaru explained as his eye started to narrow down into a glare. "You still haven't told me what happened back in the forest. Care to share?" Kabuto inquired with interest as the Snake Sannin never filled his right-hand man in on what went down in the Forest of Death.
"When Naruto showed up Sasuke's whole demeanor changed. Naruto managed to bring out a side of Sasuke that just won't do, even if he then displayed tremendous power." Orochimaru hissed as he thought back to his fight with the two Genin. "What happened?" Kabuto leaned in. "They displayed a level of teamwork, friendship, and comradery that can only be found in veterans and Jōnin twice their age. They came at me with a masterful display of skill far beyond that of Genin. They managed to push me to take them a little seriously instead of just playing with them…" Orochimaru revealed as he saw Kabuto's eyes raise up close to his hairline. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"…Sasuke's heart belongs to the village and to his teammates. Being near Naruto brings out his bond and loyalty to this place. While the power those two brought out of each other was more than what I could have ever thought possible it's not what I want. That's not the type of power I want Sasuke to have. He has too much of a bond with Naruto, something must have happened to them to draw them close together as friends. We must sever this bond between them by taking Sasuke away from this place and away from Naruto." Orochimaru declared as he smirked at the thought of Sasuke reveling in darkness. "Once that is done the influence Naruto has over Sasuke's heart and mind will be broken. After that it will be so easy to make him mine forever." Orochimaru smiled cruelly as he visibly licked his lips with his long snake like tongue.
Kabuto had an uneasy look on his face as he stared at his master who has such an obsession with the Sharingan of the Uchiha clan. "But what of Naruto Uzumaki, shouldn't we take him too? We would have the Jinchūriki to the strongest Tailed Beast on our side." Kabuto insisted as he thought it would be the most logical thing to do.
"No Kabuto. Taking Naruto is far too risky. Not only does he have to many powerful friends in high places; but he also has the interest of several immensely powerful individuals. Lady Balalaika herself has taken some kind of interest in him and if we cross her by taking her prey away from her she will annihilate not only us but every associate we have. She would sooner destroy the entire sound village just to make a point to me." Orochimaru immediately barked as he shot down that idea without a second thought of hesitation. No one crosses Balalaika and there was no one in the world powerful enough to stop her. "Lady Balalaika… why would she show an interest in someone like Naruto?" Kabuto questioned with his heart leaping into his throat. Everyone knew never to cross her.
"That is unfortunate. To have a Jinchūriki with the power of a demon is unheard of… its unprecedented." Kabuto stated as he thought of the incredible possibilities they could have with Naruto on their side. 'If only you knew Kabuto… if only you knew.' Orochimaru solemnly thought as the notion of a demon empowered Jinchūriki was not as unprecedented as he thought. It's happened before and that person was even stronger than Balalaika which is a notion that's hard to comprehend.
"Go to the hospital and retrieve Sasuke." Orochimaru ordered as he felt giddy at the thought of having Sasuke within his grasp. "Understood my lord, but won't that put unnecessary attention on us before the Third Rounds?" Kabuto mentioned as he felt that would conflict with their plans. "It might, however I want you to take a look at the seal Kakashi placed on him if nothing else. We must make sure that nothing will interfere with our plans." Orochimaru considered as he realized he was being a bit hasty by wanting Sasuke right away. "Understood my lord." Kabuto relinquished as he disappeared in a body flicker.
Village Hidden in the Tree Leaves Shinobi Hospital and Psychiatric/Rehabilitation Center
'All too easy.' Kabuto thought as he walked into Sasuke's medical room. Three dead ANBU Black Ops agents were on the floor against the wall dead. They had no visible wounds on their bodies, so their deaths were caused by a subtle ninjutsu most likely.
'It's a shame we've both caught the interest of Lord Orochimaru's keen eyes. It will be nearly impossible for either of us to escape it. Maybe I should put you out of your misery right here, to prevent you from your inevitable future.' Kabuto thought enigmatically as he stared at Sasuke's defenseless from with dispassionate eyes. He made sure to check Sasuke's Curse Mark to make sure that everything was ok and other than the Curse Sealing Jutsu placed over it by Kakashi nothing was amiss. He had a small medical scalpel blade in his hand as he held it up to Sasuke's throat. His intent was there and it looked like he was really going to slit Sasuke's throat but not even a second later Kabuto threw the scalpel behind him with lightning quick reflexes but it was caught by none other than Kakashi himself.
"Well, look at who we have here. It's nice of you to show up Kakashi Hatake. You've interrupted my mission, now are you prepared to take me on? Next time you should station at least an entire squad instead of a measly three guards." Kabuto questioned ominously as he turned to face the famous Copy Cat Ninja. 'These three guards were hand-picked from Captain Zebra's platoon. They shouldn't have been killed so easily. Not to mention Captain Shark and his entire platoon should be guarding the hospital right now. How did this boy kill these agents without Shark noticing?' Kakashi contemplated as ANBU Captain Shark and his platoon has had the sole duty of guarding the hospital for over 45 years. Shark is only the second officer to lead this Platoon in all of this time. His very own father was the first and he was appointed the position by Tobirama Senju the Second Hokage himself.
"I'm impressed you sensed me like that. But finding you here under these suspicious circumstances is enough justification for me to haul you into the I&T Division for questioning." Kakashi informed as his hands were resting by his sides. "Only you? As if you could all on your own." Kabuto dismissed with a malicious smirk on his face as he walked up to stand toe to toe with Kakashi who had at least a half a foot on him. "Are you looking to take me on boy? Don't overestimate yourself." Kakashi threatened as he narrowed his eyes dangerously at Kabuto whose smile didn't waver in the slightest.
"I know who you are. You're the Medical Bureau Chief's adopted son. Your names Kabuto Yakushi. So, who are you… one of Orochimaru's henchmen?" Kakashi revealed as he saw Kabuto's smile dip a bit. "Even if you brought me into custody you wouldn't be able to prove anything. So, let's skip all of these useless questions and let me be on my way." Kabuto flippantly stated in a nonchalant tone as he even rolled his eyes in a sign of disrespect. "Why you smart ass little brat. I'll teach you not to play around with grownups." Kakashi threatened as he was done with Kabuto's attitude. He already had Anko's warning from the written exam earlier in the week fresh in the back of his mind about the boy standing before him. It was told to her by Naruto himself who stated that Kabuto reeked of snakes. That was enough to make Kakashi wary of the boy all on his own.
"Don't get arrogant Kakashi. The ball is in my court right now." Kabuto stalled as he placed a kunai to Sasuke's neck. They were at a stalemate with Kabuto having a bead of sweat rolling down the side of his face. It came to an end when Kabuto tightened his grip on the Kunai. Kakashi blurred across the small distance between them and knocked the kunai out of Kabuto's hand before he could react and in one swift movement had Kabuto on the floor in a submission hold. 3 seconds was all it took for this transgression to take place but it wasn't over yet.
One of the dead ANBU agents on the floor suddenly sprang to life as Kabuto's body in Kakashi's hand went slack and lifeless. It made a break for the door but it was stopped by a clone of Kakashi's that entered the room. With nowhere to run the ANBU agent was cornered. Without warning another body sprang to life and threw several kunai with special seals on it at the window causing them to crack as the agent dove through the window causing not only for the glass to break but for a distortion around the window to form. Running to the window Kakashi looked down to see the agent take off its mask to reveal Kabuto's smug face staring back at Kakashi as he disappeared into the dense brush of trees in the hospital's garden.
'He interrupted the seal on the hospital building itself to prevent the automatic alarms from going off with those special kunai.' Kakashi noted as he turned to see the bodies of the ANBU agents lifeless once again. 'It's just as I suspected. Somehow this boy knows the Dead Soul Corpse Reanimation Jutsu. He brought these agents temporarily back to life and disguised himself as one of them. He even stopped his heart and erased his scent to make it as convincing as possible.' Kakashi analyzed as he came to understand just how Kabuto managed to give him… an ex-ANBU Captain the slip.
Unlike with the regular forces once you are selected to join the ANBU which is always done at the Hokage's express permission and discretion you undergo a 9-month long boot camp where you are put through a grueling training camp where you are trained into the ground 12 hours a day for five days straight from Monday to Friday and on Saturdays you go on mock missions and other secondary tasks. Sundays are your only day off and even then, you are expected to spend at least 4 to 6 of those hours meditating and doing any kind of training you can personally think of. It's to show accountability, responsibility, and initiative on your off time when you are not being asked to train. Once you complete the training camp then you are given a mask and code name to correspond with that mask. You're a full-fledged ANBU Black Ops agent at that point so for any agent to be taken out then that means the perpetrator has to have notable skill. A fresh out of boot camp ANBU agent is expected to be comparable to any Special Jōnin or low level Jōnin in the village and they are expected to be able to fight them or beat them. There are no Chūnin Level ANBU agents in the special forces. Its comprised entirely of Jōnin rank ninja of various ranks and levels and never a step below.
Kakashi noticed a glow coming from behind the door to the room and when he looked behind it he saw a small glyph on the back wall. "This is an Angelic Sigil. It masks the presence of anything within the room its placed in. This is how come none of the ANBU stationed in the hospital came. Even then it shouldn't be able to work with the sealing network placed around the hospital." Kakashi noted as he charged up his hand with his Lightning Blade. Placing a special seal on top of the glowing sigil Kakashi rammed his lightning covered fist straight into the glowing glyph shattering the mythical energy surrounding the room. The very second that happened 9 ANBU agents appeared from thin air in the room with the door opening and ANBU Captain Shark walking in with his second in command ANBU Lieutenant Rabbit flanking him.
"What is going on here Kakashi, report?" Shark questioned with his voice both monotone and muffled on purpose to disguise his identity. His voice and very presence gave off both power and authority. He was one of the longest serving ANBU agents in the village and was an agent from before Kakashi was even born. "Sir the hospital has been breached and an attempt was made on Sasuke Uchiha's life. It was done by Genin Kabuto Yakushi. He murdered the three guards from Captain Zebra's Platoon. The Hokage needs to know immediately. It's suspected that Kabuto has ties to the Snake Sannin Orochimaru." Kakashi explained in a crisp tone. He was remembering his time before becoming an ANBU Captain with Shark as his superior and even after attaining the same rank as him Shark was still his senior. ANBU can pull rank on any regular forces shinobi within the village including Jōnin. The only ones exempt from this is the Jōnin Commander himself and the elders. Jōnin Captains such as Clan heads and leaders of specific divisions within the village and the Jōnin who have earned the Elite status like Kakashi himself are theoretically on the same level status wise as ANBU Captains but since the ANBU report directly to the Hokage himself they have to follow any official order given to them by an ANBU agent.
"I see. Rabbit go and inform the Hokage immediately. Squad 1 secure the room and examine the bodies. Sergeant Mantis inform Captain Zebra of what has happened and have him begin a preliminary search and put the hospital on lock down. Once that is done return and stand by Sasuke Uchiha's side and remain there until further orders. Your squad is not to leave the room under any circumstances until further orders are given. Kakashi Hatake as per protocol I must ask that you accompany me to the I&T department for a full debriefing. Jōnin Commander Shikaku Nara will meet us their once he is informed." Shark ordered as Mantis left without a trace, while Rabbit simply disappeared as if he was never in the room.
Shark was always precise and thorough with his orders and decision-making skills. The situation was in his hands now as Kakashi walked besides Shark who was taking him to the I&T Department building within the ANBU Headquarters. It was going to be a long day but it was worth it in Kakashi's mind as he was determined to protect his students.
Forest of Death: Central Tower 46
"After you all take a slip of paper from the box in Anko's hands we will reveal to you who will be fighting who." Hiruzen announced as everyone grabbed a slip of paper. Opening his up Naruto saw that the number one was printed on the folded-up piece of paper. 'Is this going to be organized the way I think it's going?' Naruto questioned as there was only one reason why they would have you blindly pick a number out of the box instead of determining the selection with the electronic board.
"Now please say your number aloud." Hiruzen requested as everyone said their numbers. 'Neji has number two. This couldn't possibly be any better.' Naruto thought as a dark look came to his eyes for a brief moment but he was trying his best to not think with such negativity clouding his heart. It was difficult especially since he couldn't stop thinking about Hinata and her condition. 'Meanwhile Gaara is going to be going up against Sasuke… I need to warn him and tell him to be careful with him. Sasuke didn't see what Gaara is capable of.' Naruto thought as talking to Sasuke as soon as possible was going to be a top priority for him.
Shikamaru asked Hiruzen if it was possible for only one winner to be decided and if that one winner would become a Chūnin. Hiruzen clarified by stating that it was possible for every one of them to become a Chūnin and also conversely for none of them to be promoted and that it all depends on their performance and how the judges who will be overseeing the matches make their final decisions.
Hiruzen was going to say more but without any kind of forewarning a ANBU agent phased into existence right beside the Hokage. It was none other than Lieutenant Rabbit whose rabbit like mask gleamed in the fluorescent lights of the room. Ibiki and Anko tensed a bit as this was definitely unusual and they knew something must be wrong for an ANBU to interrupt the Hokage while he was overseeing official business away from his office. Asuma, Kurenai, and Might Guy also felt that something was off as Rabbit whispered into the Hokage's ear who listened very carefully to what his agent had to say.
Naruto was surprised by this as it wasn't often that an ANBU agent would appear to inform the Hokage about something while he was away. Naruto noted with mild shock that it was Rabbit who showed up. Naruto remembered back when he was younger Rabbit had been a fresh recruit when Naruto was brought into the hospital with Ms. Furukawa the night the demon attacked him in his apartment. It was also the night the Uchiha Clan Massacre happened. Naruto remembered fondly that he hated hospitals even to this day and that he would escape as soon as he was well enough to move. Of course, Naruto knew that ANBU Captain Shark who is an old friend of his would deliberately lower the sealing barrier surrounding the Hospital complex to allow Naruto to leave. Naruto knew he was nowhere near skilled enough to get away from the hospital. Even ANBU agents would find it highly difficult to pull off such a task; and if they couldn't do it then Naruto most definitely couldn't pull it off.
Naruto felt a chill go up his spine as he saw Hiruzen's face that was a controlled mask of neutrality briefly crack with mild shock which soon turned to anger. The old Hokage schooled his expression within an instant to the point you'd have to question if his facial expression even changed but for Naruto who's known Hiruzen as his adopted grandfather his entire life he was able to pick up on the old Hokage's brief slip in emotions. The wise shinobi was definitely getting old.
Hiruzen whispered back into Rabbit's ears and within seconds the agent phased out of existence as if he was never even their to begin with. "Well now, I think I have drawled on long enough. Use this one month break to hone your skills and perfect your craft for when we meet again you will put those skills on display in front of the whole world to bring pride and glory to your village. May the will of fire illuminate your path. You are all dismissed." Hiruzen stated with his parting words as he subtly signaled for Ibiki and Anko to follow him. He disappeared in a lightning fast Body Flicker Jutsu leaving those left behind quite stunned at the old man's incredible speed.
'Something isn't right. The old man had that look in his eyes. I hope everything is okay grandpa.' Naruto thought with a twinge of worry ebbing into his heart. Whenever the Hokage would act in that particular manner it usually meant something was going down and it required his attention immediately. Naruto just hoped that whatever it was it wasn't too serious. The Hokage was already too old to be worrying about so many important emergencies all the time, especially since Naruto knew that with Hiruzen's big heart the fallout from whatever was causing trouble always weighed heaviest on his heart.
Outskirts of the Hidden Leaf Village: Quarter of a Mile Away
It was the late in the afternoon and a tall figure could be seen walking through the dense forest that surrounded the Hidden Leaf Village. He was whistling a jolly tune as he was preoccupied with writing something down in a notepad held firmly within his hand. He let out the occasional perverted giggle as he would pick up the pace with his writing whenever he thought of something particularly exciting to add to his notes. He gave off the aura of tranquility, power, and unfortunately perversion as he finally broke through the dense layer of forest that the Land of Fire is known for.
'There it is… home sweet home.' The man thought within the privacy of his own mind. He was standing at the ledge of a cliff overlooking the massive Hidden Leaf Village down below him about a quarter of a mile away. Even from this distance the village took up most of his vision as the land upon which it sat on was massive. He had long spiky stark white hair tied into a long ponytail that reached his lower back. Two jaw length bangs hung to the side of his face as well as a wart on the left side of his nose. He was exceptionally tall for his age and he stood at 6'2 which was pretty tall in their world. There were red lines under his eyes which extended further down his face going all the way to the bottom of his chin. For clothes, he wore pretty noticeable and flashy attire. His attire consisted of a green short shirt kimono and matching pants, under which he wore mesh armor that is visible at his wrists and ankles. He also wore hand guards, a black belt, traditional Japanese wooden sandals, and a red haori with two yellow circles on each side. He also carried a large scroll on his back, and had a tattoo on his left palm, and he wore a horned forehead protector with the kanji for "oil" written on it in black ink.
'It's been quite some time since I've been back home. From what Sarutobi sensei told me my godson is competing in the Chūnin Exams this year and he's gotten pretty strong. I can't wait to officially meet him. I wonder what he'll think of me… I wonder what he's really like. Man, I can't believe I feel this nervous about meeting family. Hahaha… I must finally be getting old.' The man thought in melancholy as his small beady black eyes soften in compassion as he thought of his family member who he's never met in person before. To say he was both excited and nervous would be the understatement of the century. 'Well there's no point in standing around here. I can't return home and meet him if I stay up here daydreaming all day. Sunlight's burning.' The man resolved as an infectious grin came to his face. He struck a ridiculous pose on top of the cliff that only a hyperactive child would do as he screamed to the heavens.
"Leaf Village! I have returned! Ladies run in fear; for I Jiraiya the Toad Sage is here!"
To be continued...
Jutsu Library
1.) Ninja Art: Expansion Jutsu - This is the signature secret technique passed down in the Akimichi clan that increases the user's body size by converting their calories into chakra. The user can freely alter their size at will when using this technique, and can use it for an extensive period of time. A common application of the techniques gives the user a very round appearance by mostly increasing the size of the abdominal section, which is done in order to use the Human Boulder Jutsu. Other, more common applications increase the size of the entire body, turning the user into a giant.
2.) Ninja Art: Human Boulder Jutsu - A threatening taijutsu trick that converts the user's large frame into a destructive weapon. The user first uses Expansion Jutsu to make themselves into a human-sized ball, then they tuck in their limbs and use chakra to propel themselves into a powerful roll. Its effective use of weight and the force of rotation make for an even greater lethality than appearances would let on, enough to pulverize someone's hand with but a mere touch. It is difficult for the user to turn in this form. This technique has the added effect of plugging up the user's ears.
3.) Ninja Art: Resonating Sound Drill Jutsu - This technique can be used as a blanket term for the majority of Dosu's techniques. The Resonating Echo Speaker located on his arm is used to amplify the sound waves from arm movements to attack his opponent. By generating enough sound, Dosu can use his chakra to redirect the waves in mid-air to his intended target. By damaging the victim's inner ear, the victim is rendered off-balance and nauseous. By sending the sound-waves through a solid object, this technique can be used to destroy it. The sound drill can also be directed through water weight with similar effect. Therefore the greater fat index an opponent has, the more they are affected by this technique.
4.) Earth Style: Earth Flowing Mud River Jutsu - This Jutsu after the respective hand seals are formed, can transform the ground upon which the enemy stands into a river of mud to throw them off balance.
5.) Earth Style: Earth Dragon Bomb Jutsu - When used with Earth Style: Earth Flowing Mud River, this technique can create a dragon-like head to shoot mud balls at an opponent. This can also be combined with a fire technique to shoot searing hot mud towards an opponent.
6.) Earth Style: Earth Flow Spears Jutsu - This technique lets the user condense mud or stone from the ground and shape it into spikes that protrude from the ground in order to skewer the target. The spikes cannot penetrate targets of greater density.
7.) Lightning Style: Shockwave Jutsu - A very basic Lightning Style Jutsu that allows the user to send a surge of electricity out of their body into the surrounding area. They can send it into the ground where it can spread via conductive properties underneath the surface or they can send it out as a shockwave in midair.
8.) Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Crescent Moon Slice - The user swings their sword in a single, large, crescent moon-shaped arc, which occurs with such ferocious velocity that the technique can be employed in situations where only a very limited time to react is available. The swing can be used to counter attacks from multiple opponents simultaneously.
9.) Earth Style: Earth Wall Jutsu - The user creates a solid wall of earth as a form of defense. Chakra is either converted to earth within the body and then spat out to form the wall or the user can manipulate pre-existing earth to form the wall. The earth then instantly rises up and takes form. The barrier itself is also coated with chakra, making its strength incomparable to that of a normal mud wall. Because of the earth's special characteristics, the wall is highly resistant against, for instance, fire and water.
10.) Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Reverse Slice - The user does a powerful spin, generating the momentum needed to slash at any opponents behind them. The user can also utilise this spinning motion to trick an enemy that's in front of them. The enemy is fooled into thinking the user will attack them, but instead the user attacks the targets behind the user.
11.) Earth Style: Golem Jutsu - This technique allows the user to create a large, humanoid creature composed of rock that can either be expelled from the user's mouth, or formed from a pre-existing source of earth. Depending on the user, the golem can be formed instantly.
12.) Substitution Jutsu - One of the three basic Jutsu's required by the academy for everyone (with exceptions of course) to master in order to pass or at the very least to adequately on. This Jutsu is simple in how it works. The user searches or senses out a target and with his chakra he will identify that target and latch onto that object or target with his chakra. Then using his chakra like a beacon and transmitter the user will jump to the location of the object causing the object to switch places with the user so that the user can reconnect with his chakra in a space not already being taken up by said object.
13.) Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Deception Slice - Using the Substitution Jutsu to feign being attacked, the user takes advantage of their opponent's momentary shock, and charges forward with a lateral sword slash.
14.) Lightning Style: Static Jutsu - A basic Lightning Style Jutsu in which the intention is to create and generate static electricity in your body. You are to generate and then stockpile a continuous stream of static inside of your body. It is not good as an offensive Jutsu and it's not meant to be. It is the beginning tier in Lightning Style Jutsu and it's meant to teach users how to perform Lightning Style Ninjutsu. However creative minds can come up with an infinite amount of uses for the static electricity that they store up in their bodies using this Jutsu.
15.) Lightning Style: Discharge Jutsu - The second step to the Lightning Style: Static Jutsu. This Jutsu takes the stored up static electricity inside of your body and discharges it through your body outwards into the surrounding area or anything connected to your body. This Jutsu is simply meant to not only get rid of the built up static electricity inside of your body but also to teach users of Lightning Style how to discharge electricity from their bodies which is what many Lightning Style Ninjutsu are based around. Again, creative minds can come up with an infinite amount of uses for the static electricity that they store up in their bodies.
16.) Kenjutsu: Cloud Style – Havoc Group Slice - After creating several Shadow Clones which surround the enemy and attack them simultaneously forcing them to jump into the air, the real user will then attack them from above.
17.) Lightning Style: Team Thunder Bomb Jutsu - This is a cooperation ninjutsu where the users unite the extremities of their weapons, discharging a strong voltage across the blades, targeting multiple opponents simultaneously.
18.) Lightning Style: Shadow Clone Jutsu - This technique allows the user to make a Shadow Clone infused with lightning. Because it is a shadow clone, it is able to perform techniques and interact with the environment due to it having physical substance; and also evenly distributes the user's chakra to each clone. If the clone is injured, it will revert to its natural lightning-state, at the same time electrocuting whatever it is touching. Unlike a regular Shadow Clone, this clone does not send chakra or memories back to the user upon reverting to lightning.
19.) Earth Style: Shadow Clone Jutsu - This technique creates a shadow clone made of mud of the user. Since it's made of mud, it can continue to reform and mold itself back to its original shape. Once reverted to mud, the clone can serve as a powerful restraint that is capable of completely halting the opponent's movements.
20.) Lightning Style: Thunder Bolt Jutsu - The user extends both arms, releasing a high discharge through both palms, targeting multiple opponents simultaneously. It is possible to increase the power using this technique in combination with a water source.
21.) Water Style: Wild Water Wave Jutsu - A basic water style Ninjutsu the user molds water nature chakra into their mouth before spitting it out into a small-scale wave powerful enough to sweep grown men off their feet and knock down light weight objects not tied down or secure to the ground.
22.) Corrosion Style: Quicklime Congealing Jutsu - This technique makes use of the Lava Style Kekkei Genkai where the user expels a large quantity of quicklime from their mouth, capable of inflicting damage to an opponent. This ability can also be manipulated in order to restrict the intended target's movements, as after the initial blast the remnants of the substance can act in a similar manner to quick-drying cement. However, the technique requires the addition of water to set off the necessary reaction to make the substance harden. This can be easily achieved through the use of a Water Style technique, which can also serve to increase the area covered by the substance, thus further increasing the potential range of the technique.
23.) Water Style: Water Trumpet Jutsu - The user launches a large jet of water from their mouth through their hand. This gives the appearance of playing a trumpet, hence the name.
Corrosion Style - Is the subset ability of Lava Style that allows a user to change the properties of their Lava Style techniques to achieve different effects that can't be recreated with any other known Jutsu. Each village that has clans of shinobi who can use Lava Style have their own unique version to this. For those in the Land of Earth and the Hidden Stone Village when they use Corrosion Style they can make quicklime and other tar like substances including cement. In the Land of Lightning and Hidden Cloud Village they can create rubber and other vulcanized tar like substances and in the Land of Water and in the Hidden Mist Village they can make corrosive acids and tar.
Lava Style - Is a combined Nature Based Transformation Kekkei Genkai made up of techniques that mix fire and earth-based chakra to create volcanic materials such as lava or rubber in different properties and usages. Lava Style is unique and has origins in the Land of Earth, Lightning, and in the Mist.
24.) Dead Soul Corpse Reanimation Jutsu - Using this technique, a user can temporarily reanimate a corpse, creating the illusion of a living person, and manoeuvre it at will with chakra. This is achieved by causing the heart to beat once more. The reanimated corpse can serve as either a short-time ally or an effective decoy. The said corpse can also use techniques they once possessed. The traces of surgery can also be erased with chakra, because of which there's no difference, at first glance, with a live person.
25.) Angelic Sigil - A sigil is a symbol used in magic. It works similarly to a magic circle but it is much more condensed and can only typically carry out one function or only one single set of instructions. It typically refers to a symbolic representation of the magician's desired outcome. The words of a statement of intent are reduced into an abstract design; the sigil is then charged with the will of the creator.
- In the case with the Angelic Sigil found by Kakashi it was based on Angelic and Light Magic. It's intent was to shroud the room it was placed in and prevent anyone or anything from outside the room from sensing what is going on inside the room. Kabuto had to use an outside source of power to charge the sigil and make it work while simultaneously disrupting the Sealing Network that is placed over the entire Hospital Complex. It was extremely difficult to do as the sealing network is capable of detecting and identifying energies that are not chakra based.
Author's Note (A/N): Hey guys so how was that? I'm really proud of the way this chapter ended up turning out as it even took me by surprise. A lot has happened.
Choji still lost his match to Dosu but in reality it was a bad matchup from the beginning. I also was feeling like a jerk so I gave the plausible excuse that the Hidden Leaf was rigging the fights pertaining to the Hidden Cloud and Stone teams. It's a dick move on their part but it's also strategic and in the ninja world their is no such thing as playing fair.
I put a lot of emphasis on Kurotsuchi and Omoi's fight but mainly on Kurotsuchi herself and it's not hard to guess why. I'm giving her a little more to work with verses her canon counterpart while keeping it inline with the tone and theme of the story. I also tried to keep her personality somewhat the same. I don't know if I got it 100% down but it's close enough and it works for what the story needs.
If it's not already apparent, I de-aged them to make them more around Naruto and his classmates age. The same with the Hidden Cloud team. Samui was actually 29 years old in shippuden so I wanted to have everyone around the same age. I also went ahead and made Kurotsuchi and Akatsuchi siblings. Kishimoto himself stated the when he was designing Akatsuchi that he just simply took Onoki and made him bigger and rounder. They even share a similar nose so. Kurotsuchi and Akatsuchi both share very similar names which even align with Kurotsuchi's father: Kitsuchi. So I just decided that was enough evidence and justification needed to make that happen.
I expanded upon the Lava Style Kekkei Genkai and gave my own headcanon reason as to why it is both referred to and depicted to be in multiple different states throughout the Manga/Anime. When we saw it for the first time by Mei she spat real lava at Sasuke and nearly killed him, yet the next time we see it she spits acid? It didn't make any sense to me so I created some lore around the whole controversial subject to help smooth it out and hopefully make it understandable and make more sense.
The conversation that took place between Orochimaru and Kabuto was added in the same as canon and tweaked just a little to suit the plot and theme of the story. I also added in some hints and breadcrumbs into that particular conversation. It hints at other characters not yet revealed. I also stress yet again Balalaika's presence in the story and how even Orochimaru knows not to cross her under any circumstances.
As far as Kakashi's confrontation with Kabuto in Sasuke's hospital room I kept it about 90% the same with the exception of a few differences. For one Kabuto using special kunai with seals on them to keep the hospital's security system from activating. I referenced this powerful sealing array back in Book 1 along with who created it. ANBU Captain Shark as well as ANBU Lieutenant Rabbit are both characters from Book 1 as well, in fact they are from the same chapter. I value continuity so I brought them back to make the world feel more fleshed out.
I also felt like beefing up the ANBU Black Ops and boasting about them because they have a real pathetic track record in the Manga/Anime. Almost every time we see them with the exception of a few instances they always get either killed or pathetically beaten by the bad guy. It's to the point where you question why Kishimoto even created the concept of them if all he does is kill them off to make the bad guy look strong. So I took it upon myself to make them feel imposing and powerful within the story as well as to add some lore to them to better help flesh them out. I'll continue to do this throughout the story as I paint them in a much better light.
The whole Angelic Sigil thing was something I will admit I pulled out of my ass at the last second but as I went over the draft a second time I realized I could use it as another clue to fit into the story. So I let it stay and even googled up what real sigils are to get my information correct. The only prior knowledge I had on them was from watch the Supernatural TV show and even then I hadn't seen them mention it in any of the more recent episodes that I watched so I was left with no other choice but to turn to google.
Finally and most importantly Jiraiya is on the way. I'm happy to finally be able to use him after having to beat around the bush with him for so long. Even back in Book 1 I reference him yet I could never find a good place to insert him. So it's a great relief on my part to finally reach this point in the story where I can use him freely and without restraint.
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter because I sure as hell enjoyed writing it. It was a blast. THE WIND GOD OF THE LEAF!
Next Chapter: Chapter 49 (Enter Jiraiya the Toad Sage)
That's the end of Chapter 48 I sincerely hoped you enjoyed it.
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Published: 6/30/2017
