Chapter 12 Forest of Death
Oh boy we're finally reaching one of the more action packed parts of the story. Hope y'all will like the direction I take the rest of the Exams in cause I don't plan on copying the canon completely. Though it still sucks I don't own Naruto but hey least I have this and any future fanfics I write.
-outside Training Ground 44-
As Team 8 walks up the area they were told by Anko to go for the next part of the Exams Naruto could tell the area was heavily sealed in. "I don't like the look of this area. The seals I can see cut it off from the rest of the Village and I can almost sense the presence of various barrier and *lock seals." Pulling out a scroll Naruto mentally goes over the supplies he has sealed away. "Guys I don't think this part will be anything like yesterday's. Do you need anything else? Cause I'm about to send some clones back home to gather more supplies I'm sure they can visit your clan's compounds in time as well." While Hinata and Shino believe Naruto is being overly cautious neither refuses his help and they quickly make small lists for his clones. Within a few moments the various teams heading to the Training Ground see groups of Narutos heading back into the Village carrying scrolls.
"Alright they should be back in time with our extra gear now we just have to wait." As the minutes slowly go by more and more teams arrive stand around waiting for the Proctor to arrive. After his last clone returns Naruto quickly begins organizing and storing their extra gear for easy access. While he does this Hinata and Shino use their clan's respective abilities to learn more about the forest within the fence. "I think we should be extra cautious within that forest. My hive has discovered multiple dangerous flora and fauna within." Looking ever deeper into the woods Hinata realizes the area is filled with broken and rusted tools and old traps. "Sh-Shino is right I can see marks of jutsu and claw marks of large beasts scarring the land."
As the two describe more and more signs of how dangerous the forest is he turns to look at the other rookies. "I think we should ally with the other teams guys." For just a moment Hinata and Shino are silent before they nod in agreement. "I believe that to be a wise choice Naruto-san." Trying to avoid detection as much as possible they each work to attract the attention of the other Rookies. Very soon each team notices them and nods when they look over to a copse of trees near the tent a few proctors are sitting in. Within a few moments every rookie is sitting down with their teams facing the other 3 teams.
As Karin waits with her team she notices how Naruto was carrying far more scrolls than usual. "So Naruto why'd you guys want to talk to us all? I'm assuming it has to do with why so many of your clones left soon after we arrived." Nodding Naruto held up a set of scrolls with various symbols upon them. "I think our teams should work together in this exam guys. Hinata-chan & Shino were using their skills to get some info of the forest within that fence and it doesn't sound good. They said the area is littered with marks from past fights and infested with dangerous animals and plants. I propose we try and work together in there not only to make it easier but pass but also to keep us all safe."
As the 3 teams talk amongst themselves Naruto keeps an eye on a watch he'd received from Kaito. "These guys better hurry we only have 15 minutes.." As the teams finish talking they each nod to Naruto causing him to smile. "Alright! Now we just need a way to identify each other quickly and in a way no once can fake. How.." As Naruto is about to say more Karin shows him her left palm that lights up with the number 11 on it. "You mean like this Naruto." "The *Team Seal why didn't I think of that!" Never one to miss a chance to mess with the blonde Sasuke looks up withba smirk. "Maybe cause you're a moron Naruto." As Sasuke keeps smirking at Naruto he glares back and tells him to be quiet. "Alright alright calm down boys! Naruto you do your team Team 10. I'll do it for Team 7 and my own. Alright everyone hold out your left hands palm up!" As the others do as Karin asks both her Naruto's chains come out to rest over their palms. "Alright keep still for a second guys this may sting a bit."
For a moment the others stare before they all yell and pull their hands back only to see their team #s upon their palms before they fade. "If you want them to show again you just have to send a small bit of chakra into your hand." As the various genin followed Naruto's advice they heard a familiar, to some, voice above them. "So this is where you all went. I gotta say Naruto it's not a bad idea." Looking up Naruto smiles up at Neji and his team before jumping up the branches to join them. "What's up Neji-nii." As Tenten and Hinata laugh at Naruto's words Neji simply rolls his eyes at Naruto before pointing back towards the tent. "It's almost time to start you guys better head out now. Can't have you all fail cause this moron wants to talk." As the others leave Shino and Hinata walk up the tree to join Naruto who's trying to convince the older team to work with them. "Come on Neji. Think with our 5 teams we'd be unstoppable if we all grouped together." Shaking his head Neji points again towards the gathering point before jumping to the next branch and moving away.
Seeing no point to try and convince him again Naruto and his team quickly follow after Neji and his. "Ahh why's he such a stick in the mud!" As Hinata watches Naruto she laughs quietly at their latest interaction. "They act almost like brothers already..." Very quickly Naruto and the others arrive to see Itachi appear before the crowd of genin looking as bored as ever. "Behind me is Training Ground 44 also known as the "Forest of Death." And I assure you as a Jonin and former Anbu this area has earned it's name. Your objective for this portion of the Chunin Exam is simple you must take both a Heaven and Earth scroll to the center tower within 5 days of the start of this portion of the exam. You can expect to face not only dangers from the various plants and animals within but also other teams vying to take your scroll. Before you are given your scrolls though each member of your team must sign a waiver within the booth behind me. This is to ensure your villages don't try and hold Konoha, or me, responsible for the deaths that will undoubtedly occur."
Despite having a few scrolls filled with snacks and other food Choji blanches at Itachi's words. "What about food though!?" Looking down at Choji the older Uchiha simply raises a eyebrow and looks the boy down before responding. "I am sure you can find food within the forest young Akimichi. Now go sign the waivers. My only are that once you have entered the forest you will not be allowed to leave no matter what happens for 5 days. And to not open the scrolls before you reach the central tower unless you want something very bad to occur." As the various teams line up to sign the waivers and receive their scrolls two teams are watched very closely. "They both will make such powerful followers for me.."
Within 15 mins each team has received their scroll and been spread out equally around the Forest in front of numbered gates. "Alright Shino give me the scroll. I'll seal it and any others we get away." As Naruto seals away their scroll Shino asks what their plan is. "I..I think we should find the others as soon as possible. We'll have an easier time taking scrolls if we have numbers on our side." As Shino and a Naruto nod they quickly take up formation on either side of Hinata as the 1 minute warning is given. "Let's do this guys!" As the siren announcing the start of the 2nd Exam wails the gates around the forest open and the teams rush in. For a few moments Team 8 ran only randomly changing directions a few times before stopping. "Alright Hinata can you see any of the other's from here?" As Hinata activates her Byakugan she shakes her head before pointing to their left.
"A Kumo team is heading our way. One of them must be a sensor because they were the team to our immediate right when we entered the forest." Scowling at the news Naruto's right hand instinctively is on his tanto's hilt. "Can you see their scroll Hinata-san?" As Hinata nods she says they have the same scroll they received. "Well since they won't leave us alone let's knock them out and take their scroll. I'm sure it could come in handy if we lose our scroll or one of the other's needs it."
Quickly unsealing a few sets of supplies Naruto sets about making it seem like they're gonna use a hollow partially under a tree as a base camp. "Ok this is gonna take some good timing Hinata tell me when they're directly in line with our decoy base." As Naruto says this he places 3 tags within the decoy and copies of them upon himself and his two teammates. The moment Hinata says the other team is lined up with them and the decoy base Naruto activates the seals before motioning for them to jump back. "Keep your chakra suppressed. These tags are linked and make it appear like we're sitting in the base. Though once we start fighting they'll quickly burn out so get ready to strike."
For a few moments the three slowly work their way up the neighboring trees before hiding amongst the branches. Signing that they're barely 15 meters from the decoy Hinata and the others ready themselves to jump down on their enemies. A few seconds later 3 Kumo genin quickly cover the decoy's entryway while gripping the handles of the blades they have strapped across their backs. "Come out Uzumaki! We know you're in there!" For a few seconds they wait but as it becomes clear Naruto, or what they believe is Naruto, isn't moving one quickly runs through handsigns before calling out a jutsu. " "Raiton: Thunderclap Arrow Jutsu!" Before anyone can react the male genin throws his lighting bolt at the tree covering the decoy. Expecting to see the three Konoha genin get out the Kumo genin is stunned when they apparently don't move. As the smoke clears they see a small barrier formed over the hole they're covering glowing a bright green before falling apart.
"I should've expected the child of that cowardly Uzumaki witch to use her seals to protect himself!" The second Naruto hears this he grows enraged at the unknown genin insulting his mother causing his chakra to rage and burn out the seal upon his chest. For a brief moment one of the Kumo genin looks up directly at Naruto before futilely yelling out a warning as Naruto drops down on the one who's just insulted his mother. While Naruto drops his chains burst out of his back and arms before ensnaring the boy preventing him from escaping. Once Naruto lands he proceeds to launch a kick the boy in the chest while unconsciously channeling wind chakra around his foot. As his sandal comes into contact with the genin's chest the wind chakra sends him flying away while the other two can only stare at the enraged Uzumaki between them. Quickly both boys draw their blades before channeling lightning chakra through the blades before slashing at Naruto. Instead of bisecting cloth and flesh though their blades meet chakra chains that barely react as they block the strikes. As both jump back Naruto turns to face the one on his left before calling out his own jutsu. "Futon: Air Bullets Jutsu!" Forced on the defensive the second Kumo male attempts to block the incoming projectiles but realizes his folly when the first one knocks his blade from his hand.
Unable to dodge in time the genin is blasted away into a nearby tree and knocked unconscious. Turning to the last genin Naruto advances on him with both his chains out and blade drawn. "Please I surrender! I'll give you our scroll! Just don't kill me or my friends I'm begging you!" As Naruto raises his tanto he suddenly stops as Hinata hugs him from behind and quietly begs him to stop. "Na-Naruto-kun please stop.." Slowly Naruto lowers his sword and his chains recede as he collapses onto his knees while tears slowly fall. Seeing this as his only chance to escape the last Kumo genin tosses his scroll down before grabbing his teammates and running as fast as he could away from Naruto. As Hinata continues to hug Naruto she uses her Byakugan to watch for any other threats before helping Naruto up. "Come on Naruto-kun we have to get out of here." Taking the lead Hinata moves further into the forest while keeping an eye out for the other genin and other teams.
As the first day within the forest drags on Hinata leads Naruto and Shino to a small spot for a hide. Taking stock of their gear Naruto notices various symbols and names carved into a rock within their hide. Seeing marks from the previous Team 8s Naruto adds his own mark by combining the first 2 letters of each of their names below a 8. As Naruto is about to show it to the others they hear people moving through the trees outside their base. As Hinata activates her Byakugan she smiles before lighting up the seal on her left palm. "It's Team 7." Very quickly the two teams decide to group up seeing as neither has heard or seen any sign of Teams 10 11. As the two quickly worked to expand their base camp Naruto ensured the area around them was littered with seals hidden clones to keep guard. Unknown to either team they were being watched by another who was excited to see his targets together. "Tomorrow..." Seemingly melting into a tree the unknown enemy smirked evilly as he saw his goals seemingly growing closer.
-following day noon-
As the combined Teams 7 and 8 move through the forest towards the tower Hinata warned them of a approaching genin. "Something isn't right about this..." Before the teams could talk much Hinata yelled out that the genin had launched a very powerful wind jutsu at them. "Get behind me guys! Futon: Tempest Shield Jutsu!" Just before the incoming jutsu slams into the 6 genin Naruto's own fully forms but it still barely manages to keep them all from being blasted away. As the wind dies down the 6 warily look towards where they can see movement. "So you managed to block my jutsu. But it matters not prey will always be prey." From the shadows they see a Kusa kunoichi who smiles evilly at them before removing her hat. "Lady you picked the wrong people to mess with!" As Naruto and the others draw their respective weapon the Kusa genin holds up a Heaven scroll before swallowing it whole. "Let's see how you all fight when your lives are on the line." Disturbed by their opponents words action the 6 genin stare at each other before Naruto nods to Sasuke. "Futon: Great Breakthrough Jutsu!" "Katon: Great Fireball Jutsu!"
When Sasuke's fireball is empowered by Naruto's wind jutsu the flames expand from the size of a small house to nearly the size of the Hokage building. Even the Kusa kunoichi is stunned at the literal firepower now coming her way and quickly moves to get out of the way. When the empowered fire jutsu slams into the trees they quickly begin to burn with the smaller plants being carbonized within minutes. "We may have just gone overboard..." Just when the two teams think it's safe to begin moving they hear the same voice from above them in the trees. "It's amusing to see prey that thinks it can kill the predator..." Before anyone can react the kunoichi has dropped down amongst them and sent both Kiba and Shino flying with incredibly fast kicks before dodging around Hinata's jūken strikes and Naruto's chains.
"Come now Uzumaki that can't be all you have. Show me the power that your clan once held!" Much to the kunoichi's surprise Naruto's attack is remarkably vicious with numerous attacks using his tanto, chains, and kunai aimed at her arms, legs, and even throat. "Naruto move! Fang over Fang!" As Kiba & Akamaru roar through the battlefield they both quickly drive the kunoichi back before stopping alongside the others. "You ok Kiba?" Looking at Sasuke Kiba smirks before saying he's fine. "Guys this chick isn't normal. Akamaru has been freaking out sense she attacked I think we should get away as soon as possible."
Turning to the Inuzuka said kunoichi only laughs at him. "And what makes you think I'd let you little pup?" Looking at Sasuke and Kiba Naruto rushes forward with his chains spinning almost like buzzsaws just beyond his arms. While the attack does force the girl back it's clear she's toying with him as he never truly strikes her but that changes when suddenly he's forced to dodge volleys of shuriken from either side. As the others watch their stunned when she seems to just take the slashing of the chains before Naruto wraps her up. "Surrender now, you.." To Naruto's shock the Kusa genin suddenly dissolves into mud before another rises out of the ground before him with seemingly no injuries.
Before he can even blink the kunoichi is in his face and sends him flying with a single punch to the chest. "NARUTO!" Turning to face Sasuke and Kiba the kunoichi quickly forces both boys to defend themselves without even the chance to counterattack. "First the Uzumaki. And the now the Uchiha why are you both so weak. Where is the power I heard you were capable of." As the kunoichi says this she sends both Kiba and A-Kiba flying with strikes that leave them dazed. Enraged at how easily this person is harming his friends and comrades Sasuke's Sharingan activates showing it's two tomoe state. Now better able to track his foe Sasuke throws multiple shuriken out only for them to just miss as she dodges. "Come now Sasuke tha.."
Before she can say anymore Sasuke smirks before pulling back on a wires threaded through them forcing them to come back and wrap around the kunoichi as she's tied up against a tree. As more of the shuriken wrap around the kunoichi she smirks at Sasuke just before seeing him call out. "Katon: Dragon Flame Jutsu!" While the others can only watch as the flames travel down the wires and slam into their foe Sasuke smiles as it occurs. "That had to have worked..." When the flames die down everyone is shocked to see Sasuke's jutsu has managed to blast a hole through the tree as the remains fall apart.
Smiling as he slowly breathes out to calm down Sasuke was unprepared when once again the girl reappears. Only this time he, and the others, could see Sasuke's jutsu had managed to harm her as it looked like parts of her face had been burned off revealing pale white skin beneath. "Good good Sasuke-kun. I believe you are worthy of receiving my gift." To Sasuke's disgust the kuniochi's neck suddenly elongates but before her head can reach him blood red chains burst from the ground before him and slash into it. "Stay away from my friends!" As Naruto rushes forward the others can see red and blue chakra swirling around him and his chains. "I see...So you've begun to use it's power. How interesting.." Jumping back the kunoicihi seems to keep just ahead of Naruto once again before suddenly jumping high into the trees. "Summoning Jutsu!" Realizing he can't give her summon time to act Naruto quickly jumps towards the smoke hiding her and it. Before Naruto can close with it though a tail lashes out of the smoke knocking him away and back down to the others.
As the smoke clears away the genin ware stunned to see a large snake encircling the branch with the Kusa kunoichi standing on it's head. "I know of only 1 person outside Anko-sensei who has the snake contract..." While the remaining genin warily watched their foe she suddenly reached up and felt her own face. "I see you managed to harm my mask. I guess there is no point in using it anymore." Two things terrified the genin as the girl spoke it seemed like she was removing her own face and her voice changed. Instead of a cruel sounding girl their opponent now sounded like a man whose voice dripped with evil and malice like poison from a snake's fangs. Instantly each of the genin realized who they were fighting and began to truly fear for their lives as they faced Orochimaru. As he remained atop his snake the 6 quickly group up with Naruto, Kiba, and Sasuke in the front with their respective weapons out or on. "We need to get out of here guys. We can't take this guy on..." As the genin prepare to flee Orochimaru attacks and quickly renders Naruto and Sasuke's teammates unconscious with his snakes. "Now now what kind of fool thinks I'd just let you all run away. I have gifts for you two afterall."
Staring down the traitor Sannin the boys prepare to fight but neither is ready when he attacks. Immediately forced on the defense Naruto attempts to use his clan's lessons to retake the initiative but doesn't get the chance before he's launched away before Sasuke can aid him. Coughing up blood as he strikes the nearest tree Naruto loses consciousness while struggling to rise. When he wakes up he's shocked to see that he's not in the forest, or anywhere else he knows, but what appears to be a sewer. "Where...Where am I?" Sensing something familiar he rises and walks down a narrow corridor before seeing something astonishing. Before him stands a massive golden gate larger than the Village wall with the kanji for seal upon a tag in it's certain. "What is this..." Behind the gate Naruto more senses than sees something massive begin to stir and rise. "So my jailer finally comes to visit..." Behind the gate Naruto sees two red eyes staring down at him and can almost feel the hate radiating out from them. "Come closer boy."
Against his own instincts Naruto approaches the gate before jumping back as 3 massive claws explode through the gaps. Startled and frightened by the suddenness of the attack Naruto quickly falls on his back before backing away. "It's you...you're the Kyūbi!" From behind the bars Naruto sees the beast move closer exposing more of it's body to the light allowing him to see it's massive teeth and 9 tails while it glares down at him. "Why are you here human?" As the beast speaks with a voice that rattles the walls and gate Naruto takes a step back before glaring back up at it definitely. "You don't scare me!" For the briefest moment the 9-Tails is surprised at Naruto's answer before it laughs derisively at him. "You should be human. If it wasn't for this seal I would tear you apart for your insolence. Now LEAVE!"
Glaring ip at the biju Naruto wishes his chains would manifest in whatever place he was now. "Listen you jerk, I don't want to be here either. But I don't know how to leave either you jerk! Last thing I remember was that freak Orochimaru...My friends I have to get back to them!" Looking around for a way out Naruto is stunned when he suddenly feels a familiar, and very sinister, feeling encircling him. Looking down he sees blood, red chakra seeping out from the gate drawing closer to him.
"Just this once human I will give you some of my power. I can't have the world viewing my holder as being some powerless kid." As the chakra envelops him Naruto screams as it seemingly burns him before awakening back in the forest. What he sees first is the traitor biting his friend's neck before his head draws back and he looks at Naruto. "So you're using it's power now. Too late though..." The moment the snake sannin begins moving Naruto feels the sinister chakra of the 9-Tails surging within him. Driven beyond fear by it's rage Naruto moves to attack on all fours like a animal. Without thought Naruto slashes at the traitor with nails grown into claws by it's chakra. Much to Orochimaru's surprise Naruto actually manages to lightly slash his left arm leaving shallow wounds filled with the Kyūbi's corrosive chakra. With his speed and strength enhanced by the beast Naruto recklessly continues his attack forcing the sannin back. It's only when the snake attacks and forces him into the ground that he gains some control back over himself. Releasing his clan's bloodline Naruto tears the snake apart before resuming his attack by charging forward much like Kiba does.
As the two tear through the woods around the unconscious members of Team 7 & 8 Naruto finally overextended himself and is caught by the traitor's snakes. "Five Pronged Seal!" As the 9-Tail's chakra is forcibly denied to him Naruto barely remains conscious as he glares at Orochimaru. "Wha...What did you do to me...My chakra.." Staring down at the young Uzumaki Orochimaru gives him a cruel smile before his neck begins to extend. Just before it's able to reach Naruto's own neck Orochimaru jumps back as a flurry of shuriken and kunai nearly strikes him. As Naruto falls unconscious the last thing he sees is Hinata rushing forward as he's dropped by the snake Sannin. Before she can reach him though Orochimaru sinks into the ground while saying he's accomplished his main goal already. "He will seek me out one day..You can not stop it now." As Hinata grabs Naruto she drags him closer to Sasuke before moving to wake up the others. As they take the two unconscious boys away Hinata & Sakura take charge of taking care of them while Shino and Kiba set up defenses around their hide. During this they all notice the boys breathing speed up as if they're in a fight or running from something.
-within Sasuke's mind-
As Sasuke wakes up he notices that he's in his clan compound much to his shock. "What..Why am I here!?" As Sasuke looks around he realizes he can't hear anything before suddenly he hears a sinister voice in his ear. "I can give you power." Looking around he doesn't see anyone but suddenly feels something around his neck. When he looks down he sees a pale, white snake with purple markings around it's eyes looking up at him. "Take my power...You can't stop this without it." Yelling as he tries to tear the snake off his neck Sasuke begins to panic when his fingers simply go through it while it's grip tightens. "Take my power now!" Suddenly Sasuke sees his remaining clan member's fleeing as Shisui appears out of nowhere and begins cutting them down. He sees his father, mother, & brother all try to fight back only to be ruthlessly cut down by Shisui without even the slightest bit of difficulty. "Sasuke save us!" "Help us Sasuke!" "You're our onl..AHH!" More and more Uchiha call out to Sasuke even as they are cut down. Despite this Sasuke can't move he's frozen in place as he watches his family and clan cut down cut down again & again. All the while the snake around his neck pressures him to use it's power to save them.
-Naruto's mindscape-
With a start Naruto wakes up and instead of trees and his friends sees only the same golden gate as before with the 9-Tails looking at him with only one eye. "So he defeated you even with my chakra pathetic." Instead of responding Naruto tries to wake himself back up or use his chakra. "Wh...Where are we?" Opening it's eye again the 9-Tails simply stares at the boy before rising and heading further into it's cage. Annoyed at the bijū's attitude Naruto starts to yell at it before sliding down the wall as he fails to get out or a reaction. "I know you won't respond...,I don't expect you to honestly,", at this the 9-Tails silently opens one eye but remains silent, "I just want to know why...Why did you attack my Village? Why did you kill my Ka-san & To-san.." Surprised at Naruto's question he thinks back to his own youth but remains silent as the boy sits there for a time before getting back and walking. "Typical human...Thinking I CHOOSE to attack this pathetic place..." But in the deepest corners of his mind he thought back to what He used to say to him before he passed on.
-real world-
While the two boys remained unconscious their teammates continued to prepare themselves for the next day while elsewhere a very concerned, and angry, man searched the forest for his target. "How could this have happened...How did he get in...Please stay safe little brother." As Itachi continues to move through the woods he thought back to the events that led to this.
-flashback-
As Itachi sat within the central Tower watching the various screens showing areas across the forest vis hidden cameras a proctor rushed into the room. "Itachi-sama! We have a problem! Three corpses were discovered near the Training Ground! And they're strange." Turning to the proctor Itachi nods and orders him to lead the way as they Shunshin out of the Tower and the Forest. Within minutes they're standing along a rarely used path near the Forest of Death. "I checked their possessions & identification. They are Kusa genin who were competing in the Chunin Exam but as you can see.." Looking down at the corpses the Uchiha's mind begins to race at what lays before him. "They have no faces." As Itachi stares down at the bodies his Sharingan activates and he realizes something. "It's like their faces were melted off..Itachi-san what could've done this."
Looking back at the forest Itachi's Sharingan activate and for just a moment the proctors beside him shiver in fear at his chakra. "Only one man knows the jutsu that can do this. Send word to the Hokage we need two of his best squads of Anbu to scour the forest. Orochimaru has infiltrated the Chunin Exam and is currently within Training Ground 44. I am going to enter the Forest and stop him if possible." After staring at each other for a moment the 3 proctors respond before quickly leaving to alert the Hokage while Itachi turns to face the Forest. "Why are you here now.." Wasting no time he summons a flock of his crows before telling them what to look for as he Shunshins back to the forest's border.
-end flashback-
As Itachi moves through the forest his eyes momentarily change into their fully evolved state before he forces them back to their 3 tomoe state. Soon after he changes direction upon sensing a very sinister chakra heading out of the forest before stopping on a branch behind Orochimaru. "Ahh Itachi-kunn it's so good to see you again." Before Orochimaru can say anymore he suddenly gasps as he feels a blade go through his chest. Turning his head he sees Itachi standing behind him with his Anbu blade going through him. "But when..." As Itachi begins to rip his blade out a body suddenly flies out of his mouth revealing causing the body to fall down like a empty bag while Itachi just stares at the newly healed Orochimaru. "Orochimaru why are you here?" Cackling sadistically the fallen Sannin makes sure to keep his eyes away from Itachi's. "Itachi why would I tell you? I no longer serve this pitiful village though I have heard there are a few exceptional genin I'd like to take away.."
Realizing what is occurring Orochimaru forcefully silences himself while glaring at Itachi. "Such power..It is too bad he's already strong enough to resist me. He would make for such a powerful new body." While the two stare each other down Itachi smirks as he sees the Anbu squads surrounding them. "I see it's time for me to leave. Warn that foolish old monkey that 3 of my subordinates are within your care. And that if he cancels the Exams it will spell the end of this village." While he says this Orochimaru quickly sinks into the branch below even as his voice lingers for a bit after he's gone. Looking around Itachi realizes the snake is gone but notices the skin he's left behind still has lingering chakra burns with traces of bijū chakra. "So he has targeted Naruto's team at the very least and possibly others." Torching the skin with a simple fire jutsu Itachi looks at the surrounding Anbu. "Send word to the Hokage about what happened here. Then alert the Barrier and Seal Teams about the breach in our defenses." "Hai!" As the Anbu scatter Itachi glares at where the traitor stood before shunshining towards the tower.
-Teams 7 & 8-
-dawn of the 3rd day-
As Shino, Kiba, Sakura, & Hinata keep watch over their still unconscious friends they are watched from across the clearing. "So both our targets are together. What should we do Dosu?" Turning to the lone kunoichi Dosu's visible eye is filled with contempt ay her foolish questiin. "We do as commanded Kin and kill them. And if those four get in the way we'll kill them too." While the Oto genin plan their attack both Shino and Hinata discretely warn their friends of what's to come. "Me and Kiba will take the lead. Hinata-san you cover us while Sakura watches over our comrades." Just before the Oto genin can attack Shino and Kiba both stand and yell for them to come out. As the three Oto genin leap out of the trees they face the 4 Konoha genin without the slightest bit if hesitation.
"Give us the boys and we won't have to kill you four." Putting his clawed gauntlets Kiba nods to Akamaru who growls at the Oto Genin. "Not gonna happen mummy boy. We Konoha shinobi won't turn on our friends." As Kiba says this the Oto genin smirk before preparing to attack. "Last chance dog boy." In response to the boys insult Kiba quickly draws and throws a kunai that nearly strikes the black haired boys foot as he walks forward.
Angered by Kiba's response the boy resumes walking forward only to halt when his bandaged teammate says his name. "You know it's no good to set traps if they're this obvious." The moment the boy says this Shino forms the ram sign before pulsing his chakra revealing numerous seals around the clearing that quickly begin launching kunai and shuriken. "It is also foolish to assume your foe has only placed one layer of traps." As Shino says this the three Oto genin are forced to frantically dodge even as Hinata, Shino, & Kiba move to attack. When the barrage ends they realize they've been forced apart with each now facing a Konoha genin. "Tch so you three are better than I assumed. Zaku & Kin kill them if they don't move." As the bandaged genin says this Shino draws his own blades before charging at him. "I will not allow my comrades to die by hands of lackeys to Orochimaru." Stunned that the genin knows who they're working for the mummy like genin is nearly skewered when Shino quickly throws his kunai before drawing his own tantos to attack. "How do they know.." As Shino slashes with the blade in his left hand it easily cuts through the boy's sleeve before striking metal beneath.
For a moment Shino pushes his blade against the metal beneath the sleeves before wincing and jumping back. As Shino unsteadily faces his foe he stands straight revealing a metallic gauntlet on his right arm. "Last chance Konoha trash. Move or I will kill you alongside that idiotic blonde teammate of yours." Instead of backing down Shino readies himself surprising his opponent when he quickly manages to steady himself. "That blonde may be an idiot at times. But he is still my comrade. So I will not abandon him." Annoyed at Shino's words his opponent almost misses the sound of insects moving closer to him before turning to see groups of them all around. "Ahh so that's your game. Distract me until your little bugs could get closer too bad for you it didn't work." To Shino's shock his insects are suddenly driven back as his opponent drives his arms into the ground. "I see it uses sound to disrupt your foes internal balance and thus renders them incapable of fighting. That's why Kabuto-san's glasses shattered and he vomited even though he dodged your attack."
As Shino's insects circle the Oto genin he stares out at his comrades engaged in their own fights. "Since when are Leaf trash this good. Lord Orochimaru said they should be poorly trained. But these fools are matching Zaku & Kin easily." "Why are you targeting Sasuke and Naruto for Orochimaru? Why did that traitor give Sasuke a curse seal mark?" Surprised at the last part of Shino's question the Oto genin is nonetheless continually forced back while using his gauntlet to keep the insects away. "Answer my question." Blasting yet another group of bugs back the Oto Genin glares at Shino and Sakura standing before the boys behind him. "Not gonna happen trash. Zaku & Kin finish this now!"
As the three Oto genin hastily regroup Kin sends a barrage of senbon to keep the members of Team 7 & 8 away while Zaku and Dosu work on their own jutsu. "Decapitating Airwaves!" Before the others can get past the girl's senbon the first boy aims both his arms at them and releasing multiple air blasts at them. "Melody Barrage!" The moment Dosu slams his right arm down the four standing Konoha genin grab at their ears and collapse as they are subjected to consecutive attacks that seem to feed off each other. Laughing as the four collapse Zaku proceeds to walk towards the two boys while drawing a kunai. "Hey Dosu which should I kill first? The annoying Uzumaki or arrogant Uchiha?" Before the boy can reach them though Sakura rises to her feet and prepares to fight for her friend's lives.
"Yo...You're not...going to harm...my friends!" As Sakura says this all three notice that she's bleeding quite clearly from her ears and obviously unsteady causing them to laugh. "Oh just shut up already you trash! Fangirls like you don't deserve to live let alone call themselves shinobi!", as the boy says this he raises one palm at her, "Decapitating Airwave!" While the jutsu does cut Sakura up quite badly she refuses to back down and charges at the boy the moment it's finished. As she closes with him he fires another blast at her but is surprised when she uses the substitution jutsu to get away and drop down on him. While she manages to slash him across his right arm with a kunai she halts when the girl tells her to stop while holding a senbon to Hinata's throat. "Make one more move and this one dies." Faced with a impossible situation Sakura drops her kunai and raises her hands while praying someone would save them.
Smirking as he gets back up the one named Zaku quickly kicks Sakura in the chest to knock her down before turning to his teammates. "So who gets the honor of ki.." As he speaks he and everyone else suddenly feel a spike of chakra from where the two boys were laying. As Zaku turns he sees Sasuke is not only up but surrounded by a visible vortex of purple chakra as black markings cover half his body while glaring at him and his team. "Sasuke-kun, you're awake thank..." For just a second no one moves before both Zaku and Kin are sent flying into Dosu while Sasuke comes to a halt next to Sakura. With a voice overflowing with bloodlust Sasuke looks down at Sakura noticing her multiple injuries. "Sakura who did this to you? Who was it?" As Sasuke says this the others stare in shock at him as his chakra seems to become more sinister while he stares down at her. "The curse mark is running across his body?!" "Sasuke..Those markings? What.." Looking down at his arms Sasuke smiles as the black markings seem to set in place. "I see now why he gave me this power. I can use this to defend you and avenge my father."
Clenching his right hand Sasuke glares at the three Oto genin while saying he's never felt so powerful in his life. "I see... So the mark he spoke of was this one...His cursed seal..but how can he stand...And why." "Sakura who hurt you? Who here deserves to be torn apart for hurting one of my friends?" Angered by Sasuke's unexpected attack Zaku steps forward arrogantly. "I did it!" As Sasuke turns to stare down Zaku the marks on his body turn a fiery red before expanding as more chakra swirls around him. "This can't be right...No matter how you look at it...He set us up..We have to.." "Dosu! Why are you scared of this freak? We can take him! I'll kill him, that girl, & that annoying blonde in one shot!"
Staring down Sasuke Zaku brings both his hands forward seemingly mad with bloodlust. "Zaku no! Don't you realize.." "Super Sonic Slicing Wave!" As Zaku pours a large amount of chakra into his jutsu the others are stunned to see the tree behind Sakura and the others be sliced apart as his jutsu seems to slam into them and it. As the dust settles all anyone can see is a gouge in the earth and the tree's remains settling as Zaku breathes heavily at using so much chakra. "Heh I knew it. I blew them all apart." As the dust settles Zaku hears a voice that chills him to his core. "Who was?" To his shock Sasuke and the others are now behind him without a single scratch from his jutsu. "Huh?!"
Before Zaku can react he is sent flying with a backhanded strike from Sasuke. As Zaku comes to a stop he coughs up a small amount of blood as Dosu looks between him and Sasuke. "He's too fast..To have moved them all.." "Katon: Phoenix Flower Jutsu!" "Don't mess with me! I'll blow all those flames away!" As Zaku sends a blast air at Sasuke's jutsu the flames are easily extinguished but not before he's unable to dodge the shuriken hidden within. "Zaku!" Shielding his chest, neck, & head Zaku can only take the attack leaving him covered with a multitude of cuts from the red hot shuriken. "Zaku! Below you!" As Dosu warns his teammate he can only watch as Sasuke quickly knocks him to the ground before putting a foot to his back as he pulls back on his arms. "You seem quite proud of these arms of yours...Perhaps I should take them away from you!"
Pulling on Zaku's arms Sasuke has a sadistic smile upon his face as his tomoe spins rapidly. "Stop it! Plea.." Staring in shock and horror Sakura barely manages to sit up as she watches. "This can't be the Sasuke I know and love.." Much to the other's horror Sasuke pushes down with his foot while pulling back the boys arms till they hear the boys arms suddenly dislocate causing him to lose consciousness. Turning to face Kin and Dosu after this Sasuke takes a few steps towards Dosu before Sakura runs and hugs him from behind.
"Please stop Sasuke-kun...This isn't you..Please stop." As Sakura continues to hold him Sasuke's markings turn red again but begin to recede before he collapses as they all disappear. "You're strong Sasuke! We can't defeat you as we are now. Take this scroll and let me and my team go. Just know that if we fight again we won't run away again." As Dosu and Kin carry Zaku away Sasuke and Sakura stare at the scroll they left behind as one by one the others get up including Naruto. "What happened...Where am I?" As Naruto turns to look around he notices that Sasuke is staring down at one of his hands as it twitches before noticing the scroll in front of them. As the two teams quickly take stock of their own injuries Naruto asks Team 7 what kind of scroll they need to pass. Pulling their initial scroll out of her bag Sakura holds up a Heaven scroll. "We need a Earth scroll but these guys had a Heaven scroll. Why?" Smiling Naruto reveals a seal on his arm before releasing it showing two Earth scrolls. "Why don't we trade? You have a scroll we need and we have one you need." Nodding Sakura passes the extra to Naruto who does the same with the scroll they'd gotten from the Kumo team.
"Hey since we already agreed to work together why don't we head to the tower together now? We've both got the scrolls we need and it'd be safer for us that way." Turning to Sasuke and Kiba Sakura asks if they're fine with that before both boys nod as they all slowly get up. "Let's move away from here though. I'm sure other teams heard our fight and I don't want to get in anymore if I can help it." As the two teams move towards the tower Sakura and Hinata do what they can to help their teammates while Shino and Kiba work to keep them away from others. By nightfall both teams are only a hundred meters from the tower hiding within the forest but they stop when they see other teams closer in waiting to ambush other's who are making a break for the tower.
"We need a plan. We can't fight them like this." As the genin try to come up with a plan Naruto snaps his fingers before smirking. "I've got an idea. Though it's kinda risky since my chakra is acting strange right now." As the others look between themselves they nod before looking back to Naruto. "I can make a large number of clones to cover us. While they rush in henged as us and others we blitz past everyone in the confusion. We can even use the various seals, that I may or may not have taken, from Kaito-nii's *stored jutsu pile." As the others stare at Naruto he pulls out a multitude of tags & scrolls and begins dividing them up into piles by their respective kanji. Eventually they all turn to Shino who nods & says Naruto's idea is probably their best chance to succeed as is.
"Naruto-san how much time do you need to set up your tags & clones?" Briefly stopping as he places a scroll with the kanji for Tempest down Naruto replies a little too eagerly with. "Give me 2 minutes and they'll think an army is coming down on them with the number of launcher tags & jutsu tags I'll have divvied up for say 200 shadow clones of me." For a moment both teams are shocked as they all know the cost of a single Shadow Clone let alone two hundred. "Na-Naruto-kun isn't yo-your ch-chakra acting strangely? C-Can you use tha-that much?" Nodding Naruto creates a clone before handing him 4 barrier tags and having him put them at the base of a nearby tree.
"Alright that's all the tags just let me go behind that barrier as it's set up so no sensors can detect me using so much chakra." Staring as Naruto's clone places the last tag after Naruto jumps onto one of tree's limbs they are surprised when the barrier rises almost halfway up it before connecting to it's trunk. Looking back at Naruto they see him forming the cross seal before he shouts out the jutsu's name. "Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Nearly instantaneously the barrier's interior is filled with smoke as just over 200 clones of Naruto are created before the barrier is dropped. "Alright 30 of you henge into Team 7, 30 into Team 8, & another 60 into random people. All of you go grab a few tags before splitting off to cover this side of the tower!"
As the clones henge themselves and divy up the mountain of scrolls the barrier begins to crack slightly. "GOT IT BOSS!" As the members of Team 7 and 8 watch Naruto's they realize their friend, in his own way, shows exactly why 3 of the major Villages and their minor allies fought so hard to destroy them. As Naruto notices his friends haven't moved he calls to them before his clones all show the same smirk as they prepare to enact his insane plan. The moment the two teams are ready Naruto throws a kunai with a *Banshee tag wrapped around it's handle. As the tag begins screeching the 200 plus Naruto's activate the multitude of launcher seals in the trees creating a near solid wall of kunai & shuriken cutting the area off.
Into this area the clones rush the teams that were between them and the tower like reckless fools. "Doton: Rock Shuriken!" "Doton: Stone Pistol Jutsu!" While the Kusa and Ame teams were quickly overwhelmed the Iwa teams managed to form a block and began decimating the clones as they drew closer. "Is that all you got Uzumaki!" The moment the Iwa boy said this he realized he'd made a mistake as suddenly just over a dozen clones jumped high into the air before calling out the same thing. "*Futon: Wind Dragon Jutsu!" Legend has it that just before the wind dragons hit the same Iwa genin was heard cursing his own big mouth before quite literally being blown away, alongside most his comrades, as the dragons slammed into them.
Into this confusion the 6 real Konoha genin ran hidden amongst dozens of clones that were made solely to cover them. As this chaos occurred it drew more and more attention until most of the ambush teams were trying to stop the Konoha genin by launching jutsu into the mix or throwing their own kunai and shuriken. While the clones are relatively easy to dispel their numbers give the two teams time to reach the tower's western entrance unscathed though all are breathing hard after the run and dodging the stray jutsu or weapon thrown their way. As the teams entered the tower Naruto looks back and smirks as the various genin realize they've been tricked and glare back at him through the entryway. What he didn't realize was that the proctors and others from the village were watching as well & laughed quite a bit at his plan.
Walking further into the entryway Naruto sees the other's staring at the wall with the following words below two stone hands forming the ram handsign with a background depicting a flat grassland with few clouds over it.
If you do not possess Heaven, gain knowledge and be prepared.
If you do not possess Earth, run through the field and seek strength.
If you open both Heaven and Earth scrolls, dangerous paths turn into safe ones.
This is the secret of the one that guides.
As the 6 look between themselves Naruto asks what it means. "I-I think it means we should open the scrolls." As everyone turns to Hinata she turns bright red before pointing at Team 7s scrolls. "W-We possess bot-both Heaven and Earth scrolls meaning opening them here should be safe." As Naruto unseals his team's scrolls he tosses the Heaven scroll to Shino before nodding as they both open alongside Kiba and Sasuke the scrolls simultaneously only to be confused for a moment as all they see is part of a X that begins to smoke.
"Oh crap it's a summoning seal! Guys quickly toss them on top of each other!" Taking Naruto's advice the other 3 boys toss their open scrolls out with him before two simultaneous bursts of smoke appear. Readying themselves for an attack the two teams are stunned when they hear familiar voices. As the smoke clears they see Iruka and Kaito walk out smiling at them before Iruka happily congratulates them. "Congratulations on completing the 2nd Exam!" As Iruka speaks Kaito forms a handsign opening up the wall behind him revealing a staircase that leads up into the Tower. As the six celebrate golden chains suddenly wrap around Naruto and hold him upside down before Kaito. "Otōto what did I say about using my jutsu scrolls without permission?"
As Naruto struggles to answer Kaito lightly knocks on his forehead before he starts to laugh. "Relax just this once I'll allow it. But you better make me some replacement ones once all this is over. And don't do it again unless you want me to get Harue-hime to scold you again." As Naruto nods his head in agreement Kaito laughs some more before putting him down and telling them all to follow him and Iruka into the tower. Within a few moments the two teams are led to rooms on the 3rd floor and are given schedules for when breakfast, lunch, & dinner are available for all in the Tower's dining hall.
Soon after Iruka leaves but not before congratulating each of them on passing the exam once more. "You guys should relax & remember you have to be in the central hall by 9AM on the fifth day if you wish to proceed to the final part of the exam." Walking into the tower they see a few other teams had already managed to reach it before them including Teams 9 through 11. Sitting down in the main hall to eat with the others Naruto and Sasuke warn them of Oto's connection to Orochimaru.
Playing shogi with Karin Shikamaru's eyes narrow at the news even as he seemingly continues to play and ignore the rest. As the dinner winds down the teams each head to bed. As night falls though Naruto can't sleep and lays awake in bed before sighing and quietly getting up. Walking out of the room Naruto heads towards a nearby covered balcony they'd seen earlier. Sitting in one of the chairs Naruto zones out as he thinks back to how he'd lost control using it's chakra.
Lost in his own thoughts Naruto doesn't notice anything until he feels a familiar trio behind him. Looking back he hastily throws up a fake smile for Anko, Hinata, and Shino who are looking at him with concern in their eyes. "You don't need to hide it Blondie they know you're scared." Tousling the blonde's hair Anko shakes her head and sits beside him. "You three know who my sensei was right?", as the three nod Anko slips her jacket off her left shoulder revealing the side of her neck, "You can't see it now but he put one of his seals here." Pointing to the spot she nearly laughs when Naruto looks closely at the spot at the word seal and tilts his head to the side.
As Naruto looks down Shino sighs and sits beside him and is soon joined by Hinata and both quickly put a hand on their friend. "Naruto-san you don't have to fear us leaving you. Why you ask? Because we understand you are not the thing within and will not be controlled by it." For the first time since they'd left the dining room a small but very real smile is on Naruto's face as he nods. "Yo-You're m...our friend Naruto-kun. I...We won't abandon you." Hugging Naruto tight Hinata holds him tight even as she turns red from her head to her toes.
Hesitantly Naruto hugs her back much to Anko and Shino's amusement even as the two quickly join in. Watching the team cheer up Naruto from the roof above Kaito smiles down at them before disappearing in a burst of smoke. As the night wears on Team 8 makes their way back to their room for so much needed rest. Saying goodnight to the trio Anko wipes a arm hastily across her face before heading back into the Jonin's section of the tower. Entering the common room she's surprised to see Iruka and Kaito sitting and joking while drinking coffee. "Yo Anko-san I take it my otōto is feeling a bit better now?"
Rolling her eyes Anko nevertheless nods before pouring herself a cup of jasmine tea with a small bit of honey added in. "Yeah the little baby is fine now. I swear those three brats seem to try and ruin my tough as nails image." Laughing at her own little joke Anko sits across the table from the two and smiles at them. "Oh I'm sure Naruto is just being Naruto...He's quite the little character isn't he Kaito-san." Nodding Kaito smiles before putting down his empty cup and sighing.
"According to Mito-sama he's alot like his mother. It'll be fun to see how he does in the next part won't it Iruka-san?" Muttering about obstinate Jonin Iruka nods before smiling at Anko and raising a cup to her. "Yes but who would've thought our tough as nails Jonin Anko Mitarashi would have a heart to heart with anyone." Laughing at Iruka's joke while Anko's smile turns devious Kaito rises and excuses himself citing a need to sleep. Swirling the tea left in her cup Anko is silent for a bit before smirking at Iruka.
"So Iruka-kun I see you're enjoying yourself here. Would you like to make a bet on the coming Preliminaries?" As Anko says this Iruka takes a drink of his coffee and begins to choke when he realizes what Anko said. "Pre...Preliminaries? We haven't had to do those in a few years?" Waving her hand dismissively Anko points to the far wall where the team numbers are shown. "Look how many we've already got up there. The Rookie 12, Team Guy, Team *Nobu, the Sand team, the Kumo team, and the Iwa Team. If there isn't a set of preliminaries I'd be amazed honestly...So wanna make a bet on it?"
Taking a second to finish his drink Iruka thinks before nodding hesitantly though he briefly worries about what Anko will wager. "Sure Anko-san so what would you like to bet?" Smiling in a way Iruka finds uncomfortably similar to Naruto when he pulled pranks and set off traps Anko looks up at the Chunin. "How about how many of the rookies will make it to the final test?" Thinking for a moment Iruka shrugs before saying he thinks only one will make it through.
Again that almost predatory smile is on Anko's face as she nods before betting at least four will make it to the final exam. Talking late into the night the two slowly move away from the Exams to other subjects before turning in for the night. While Anko is more than pleased with her bet Iruka wonders if maybe he just grabbed onto the tail of a tiger.
*-a variety of seals that range from basic to incredibly complex used to secure gates, boxes, etc etc
*-a basic seal that allows for quick and silent identification by either having the squad's #, or some other symbol, show up on their palm when chakra is sent into it
*-a B-rank seal that one stores chakra in after shaping it like they would a jutsu enabling them to release said jutsu, typically C-rank and below, at a later time without any cost beyond activating the seal
*-seal that screams and wails, hence it's name, useful only really to draw attention and barely E-rank in difficultly/usefulness
*-exactly what it sounds like a dragon formed with wind chakra, and currently the strongest jutsu in Naruto's arsenal, that can either be directed to strike head on or swoop over and then down on a target
*-couldn't find a name for Kabuto's sensei so I made one up
I'm gonna end this chapter here and start with the preliminary battles next chapter. See y'all then!
Rewrite-3/7-3/10/2021