Welcome to the next chapter.
Morregen; Thanks very much! I'm glad you liked it! That would be pretty cool if that happened yeah. That would be pretty interesting if Minato did that with Ryouta, thanks for the suggestions! He'll be able to help out Anko with hers at some point yeah. That really would take it to a new level lol. No problems at all~
LezarioFanficio; Temari could be yeah. Thanks very much!
ShadowUzumaki55; Glad you liked their fight! He did yeah, Ryouta and Neji had quite a good talk. Hiashi finally came around and now he and Ryouta are on good terms with one another. Hehe, yeah Hinata and Ryouta managed to finally share their first kiss with one another.
Silver crow; Thanks! Glad you liked the fight. Hinata and Ryouta did yeah. Yeah, it was a nice little scene between them. Satsuki would want to see her boyfriend fight here. Temari's somewhat aware yeah. Yeah, keeping it in line with the rest of the series there. Yeah, seems like Neji's plan did backfire a bit there. Ryouta is quite fast yeah. Ryouta did yeah, he could see Neji wasn't truly evil and wished to help see the error of his ways. Hiashi did yeah, it seems he can see the good in Ryouta now. Glad you liked the moment between Hinata and Ryouta. He wouldn't kill if he had other ways of dealing with things. I've got a funny moment involving Shoto and the Oc there yeah. He might have gained something from his Mother, we'll have to wait and see. We might see it sooner than you might believe. Maybe he could speak to Temari. The invasion starts quite soon. Jiraiya and Ryouta's relationship is going to be fun to see. I've got some moments for Itachi and Ryouta coming up when he shows up, same for Izumi. I've got some ideas for how the sludge villain is gonna work. Thanks to the life he leads, the oc is gonna have some skills. Yeah, he could punch the air. Yeah, that looks cool for future lemons. I couldn't spoil who he's gonna be fighting during that part of the story.
Guest 1; Thanks! Maybe in the future. Can't say about Hiruzen, something's might shake up. Thanks for the suggestions.
danielsnow; Thanks, glad you liked it. Yeah, Gaara vs Satsuki is going to be quite fun.
Skull Flame; Glad you liked it. Yeah, they're on good terms now.
Hinata fan; Yeah, quite explosive huh. Ryouta did yeah. Glad you liked their moments together. Gaara is yeah.
nirmtheworm14; Tomura's Oc brother won the first poll. They surely are~ Yeah, I'd say without Mangekyou he's around that level. Thank you!
Guest 2; Glad you liked it! Maybe one day they could do yeah. Tenten could be like that huh. Ryouta did yeah, he and Neji's friendship is going to develop from this as well, and Hinata and Ryouta also became quite close. Gaara does yeah, lets see what happens next. Thanks very much! Thanks for the harem and Quirk votes. I've thought about it, if Izuku could work in that kind of story, and while I really do like Izuku, he'll be replaced for that story.
Guest 3; That would be an interesting story to do yeah. It would be cool if she was like that. That could lead to some funny moments between her and the others. Quite a cool personality, thanks for the suggestions!
GuoYaohui; Yeah, he's quite mature for his age. Ryouta already knows Itachi didn't do it on his own, he knows Tobi had a hand in it from when he saw him that night. I'm glad that you like him. In an AU perhaps Satsuki would be like that yeah.
Guest 4; Yeah, I don't see why she couldn't, as you said her husband can. That would be a pretty cool kind of character to do, thanks for the suggestions!
TheGreatGodzilla; Yeah, Ryouta managed to win the fight, and settled it with Hiashi. Hinata and Neji's relationship will keep improving for the better as the story goes on. The Hyuga don't hold ill will, as shown with Hiashi, if anything he's quite grateful. He wont be a secret infiltrator, he'll have connections to Tomura of course, and how their dynamic will play out is something we'll see as that story goes on. Izuku's not gonna be in that story, as while I really like him, there wouldn't be much sense for him to be in it. Why he didn't die, will be shown in the story. Pakura's story isn't finished yet, is all I can say. Thanks for the harem suggestions. I'll be sure to check them out. Hashirama could do yeah. Ochaco's gonna be in the harem yeah, I've got her and the Oc' story set out. Who says All For One did rescue him along with Tomura? All shall be revealed in that story.
Guest 5; Yeah, they'll be girls. They'll have some interesting dynamics to play off.
Guest 6; Maybe Tomura could be like that, he'd want his little brother to live.
War Sage; Thanks. Glad you liked their moments. Temari might be yeah. Gaara did seem to give some a good shock. Yeah, he wanted to get the information and other things at the time. Who knows, same as canon I guess. Neji was quite the believer in fate favouring him, it didn't go that way though huh. Kaguya could be yeah. Thanks for the suggestions.
Andrew123456; Not all, but some of them I think might be cool to explore.
Guest 7; Either this week or next week, no later than next week.
Guest 8; Yeah, that would be cool if Katsuki was there.
With those suggestions out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Naruko vs Haku!
After spending sometime with Hinata, Ryouta went towards the viewing area with the other contestants. He thought about how Neji was doing right there and then, wondering how his talk with his Uncle, Hinata's Father, would be going.
He hoped Neji got the answers that he had been waiting for, for such a good long while now.
As he walked however, he saw that Naruko was out in the hallway, seemingly keeping herself to herself. She looked rather nervous, something that he didn't expect to see on her face, so he moved towards her.
"Naruko-chan? What's going on?"
Naruko jumped at the voice.
She looked towards Ryouta, seeing the softness of his smile, something that calmed her rapidly beating heart.
"Ryou, I'm sure that my match is going to be next."
"Yeah, are you nervous about it?"
Naruko poked her fingers together.
It was odd to see her like this.
But it was clear that something was going on inside of her, something that he knew she was keeping to herself.
"...Haku, I'm sure that she's gotten stronger, and stronger. She might be able to even beat me. I don't know, maybe I'm just being stupid or something...I just want to show everyone that I have what it takes...that I am doing my best out there."
"People will see that Naruko-chan, I'm sure they will."
Naruko chuckled awkwardly.
She wished that was true.
She didn't know for sure though and hoped she'd be able to show what she had within her.
"Haku...she is strong, isn't she? She's smart, and very capable..."
"So are you, Naruko-chan."
Naruko's eyes go towards Ryouta's own, seeing the young boys expression of kindness and encouragement.
Naruko always felt relieved when she heard him speak like that.
It made things be put into perspective more and more for her.
"Haha, yeah, I guess that I am..."
Ryouta shook his head, and budged closer.
His hand and her own found one another, as he lightly stroked her hand with his fingers.
That alone caused her to feel a deep heat spreading within her body.
"You don't have to guess Naruko-chan, I know that you are. I mean, you have shown so much already. Your fights in the Chunin Exams, on the bridge, you have done a lot of amazing things. And it isn't all about winning, you know?"
Naruko tilted her head.
"No?"
"Of course not, winning would be fantastic, but even if you don't, you can take a lot away from this. You can show your strengths to Hokage-sama, and the others. A Chunin isn't all about power, it is about the mind, and the unbreakable spirit of being able to lead your group. Naruko-chan, I do think you have what it takes to be a very great leader."
Naruko's cheeks flushed several shades of red as his eyes stared into her own ones.
Being lost within his eyes, she could feel the heat pounding deep within her.
"Ryou...I'm gonna do it, my best. Even though Haku is...she might be smart, and talented, but I will still do my best!"
Ryouta nodded with a strong expression on his face.
"Yeah, go for it Naruko-chan. I'm sure that you can do this. Just remember, whatever you do today, go for it with both hands like you always do."
Naruko liked the advice that she received from him.
To the point that she moved closer, and ended up lightly kissing him on the cheek.
He was surprised by her forwardness, but he could see that she looked shy about it as well, so he didn't say anything about it.
When she pulled away, she peered into his eyes once more.
"Ryou...you've always watched me, will you watch me again?"
Hearing that, Ryouta couldn't contain the smile within him.
"I'll always watch you Naruko-chan."
Naruko felt her body heating up.
She felt content now.
She also felt her courage building within her.
She then placed her thumbs up towards the young man.
"Leave it to me Ryou! I'll get it done, believe it!"
"Right, I'm sure you will Naruko-chan."
As he said it, they both saw that Kakashi was coming up.
"Naruko, your match is soon, you should go and prepare."
"Y-Yeah Sensei, I got it!"
Naruko bowed, and ran off, leaving Ryouta and Kakashi alone together.
Within the hospital, Yugao and Hayate were sat together on the bed. They couldn't make the Chunin Exams, despite how much the pair wished to. Yugao wished she could have seen Ryouta and how he had progressed, especially since he was the reason her lover still lived to this day.
Hayate couldn't speak, and while being awake, it seemed that he still was in pain.
"I wonder how Ryou-kun is doing right now…?"
Yugao mused within her mind as she overlooked Hayate.
Hayate might not have been able to speak, but he could tell the look on Yugao's face, and knew what she was thinking about.
He managed to write on a pen and paper.
[I'm sure, he is doing very well.]
Yugao smiled at the sight.
Though the words looked rough due to him having trouble moving his body thanks to what Kabuto did, seeing how he was moving and doing his best, made her want to do her best as well.
"Yes, I'm sure that he is. I think he is the first up, so I've asked a friend of mine to report back here to when his match finishes, so we can know right away. Haha, I'm sure that I'm merely being cautious, and I have seen his skills, but I am worried..."
[I am as well.]
Hayate managed to write.
Yugao hummed as she looked over the sun in the sky, seeing its rays beaming down towards them.
Though the sun brought her joy, she felt a sense of dread run through her.
She couldn't be sure why, but she did feel it deep within her being.
When she looked back at Hayate, she felt a deep sadness.
Despite being alive, she wished she could have done more.
If she had gone instead of him, then he...
"Hayate...I wish I..."
Before she could continue, he stopped her as he passed on a new note.
She looked down at the note, and she saw the simple words of [I love you.] which in turn caused Yugao to smile to herself.
"Dummy...saying that now..." She looked at Hayate, before moving to him, and lightly kissing him on the lips, something that made both of them smile. "...I love you too, that's why, we're gonna work on getting you better, yeah?" Hayate gave the weakest of nods. "Leave it to me, I'll do my best to get you back to your old self. Hey, after you do, finally you could join the Anbu with me...we could work together, and..."
While she spoke, she could feel the floodgates of her tears was beginning to form within her eyes.
But she didn't want to worry him, so she kept them at bay, and simply sat with the man she loved.
That was until Yugao saw the person she talked about before come to the window.
They explained to Yugao what happened, and she couldn't contain her excitement.
"Hayate, wonderful news. Ryou-kun managed to beat the Hyuga boy, and has moved onto the next round."
Hayate gave a soft smile, and that said more than words ever could.
Both showed happiness for Ryouta passing the exam, and couldn't wait to hear what was next for the young Uchiha boy.
Back with the two Sharingan wielders, neither said anything for a few moments.
Kakashi was gathering his thoughts on how to express what he felt within him.
Kakashi's lone eye looked over Ryouta's form.
Not seeing any injuries, he let out a small laugh.
"So, the battle with Neji, was more of an ideology based one, huh."
Kakashi spoke with a lazy tone, but his eye displayed something else.
As if he was thinking deeply about the battle itself.
Ryouta rubbed the back of his head.
"I suppose so yeah."
"Even if that was the case, I thought the fight went pretty well. Both on a technical level, and how you handled your words. I think it was rather nice to see someone try and save that young man. Though I'm sure you probably don't need to hear that from me now."
Ryouta lightly.
"To be honest, I at first couldn't work out what Neji-sans problem was. As he spoke to me though, I could understand more and more of his plight. I could understand what Hanabi-san and Hinata-san were telling me about their elder brother like figure. I could see as we fought, the hard determination he has, and how he wishes to excel. Though his methods around Hinata-san weren't great, I hope with this, they'll be able to finally come together like a family again and stop that curse seal he had and make sure they don't put it on others."
"It must have been a hard moment for the Hyuga to have to deal with that."
Kakashi commented.
Ryouta could see why that would be.
"I can imagine so. Though I think Hiashi-sans moving from that and I believe he's still speaking with Neji-san and I hope whatever happens, they reach some kind of catharsis between them."
Kakashi couldn't help the smile that was growing underneath his mask.
Seeing how Ryouta spoke earnestly, and openly, showed Kakashi the kind of young man that he truly was, someone that he believed would be able to accomplish a good number of things.
"I think what you did, is going to be positive for the Hyuga. I am sure that your brother, Shisui, would have been proud at how you tried to save that young man from self destruction as without it, I can see that it would have gone down that path. He would have shaped the very destiny he was trying to avoid."
Ryouta nodded.
He believed what Kakashi said to be true as well.
And he smiled when he spoke briefly about Shisui.
Even if he couldn't see what Ryouta did, Ryouta was content knowing he was doing his best, and trying to make his brother as proud as he possibly could do.
"Yes, he would have. Now, he can change the way his life goes. He can do anything he wishes to do. Maybe even he and Lee-kun could become good friends. I always felt like Lee-kun wished for it, but Neji-san kept him at bay due to his own reasons."
"Perhaps, only time will tell."
Ryouta chuckled, nodding.
He then bowed.
"I have to get going now Sensei, the next match is going to be starting soon, and I have to support both Naruko-chan and Haku-chan. Haha...that's going to end well huh~?"
Kakashi could see how hard that would be since it seemed he had such a close relationship with both of them.
"Yes, that's right. I'm sure that Naruko is going to show something outrageous."
"Yes...hopefully not the Sexy Ryou on Ryou Jutsu again..."
Kakashi stifled a laugh.
But then saw Ryouta's face fall slightly, so Kakashi cleared his throat.
"I'm sure that she wont do that."
"I'm sure she is going to..."
Ryouta laughed awkwardly, and then began walking away.
Kakashi watched him leave, and murmured "I'm proud of you." once he knew Ryouta was out of earshot as he felt slightly embarrassed to say it face to face.
When Ryouta finally arrived, he saw that Naruko and Haku were staring at one another with strong gazes.
Ryouta also noticed that Satsuki was giving Gaara a strong look.
Even Temari was staring hard at Shikamaru.
It felt rather tense.
But at the same time, Ryouta noticed that when he appeared, barring Temari, the girls eyes turned towards him.
It was rather eerie if he was honest with himself.
But then before he could comment on it, he heard the next announcement.
"For the next round, it will be between Naruko Uzumaki and Haku. Please make your way to the stage."
Naruko looked pumped up, and she showed a determined look on her face.
"Alright! It is my time to shine! Yahoo!"
Naruko didn't waste time, and she leapt from the viewing area, and landed on the ground.
Haku released a calm breath, as she jumped from the viewing area also.
Ryouta walked to the end, and looked over and down at the two girls. Ryouta also felt Satsuki's hand enter his own, as Gaara's did the same on the other side, something that Satsuki noticed, and glared at.
"Ryou, she's holding your hand."
Satsuki whispered, with Ryouta nodding.
"I know, it's alright."
Satsuki glanced at Gaara, seeing that she was even staring at Ryouta.
She wasn't even being subtle about it in the slightest.
"If you say so."
Ryouta nodded at Satsuki.
She didn't trust Gaara, as she had only ever seen the aggressive side to the young girl.
But if Ryouta thought that she would be okay, then she didn't have any complaints.
As they did that, Sakura, and the others saw Naruko on the ground, looking determined. Hinata finally joined them, though she was unable to speak due to what happened beforehand, something that Ino noticed.
She didn't say anything, but silently acknowledged what was going on and kept her head down.
"Yeah, come on Naruko! Show them what you've got!"
Sakura cheered for her teammate.
Karin lightly laughed.
"While I do like Naruko, I have to say that my teammate in Haku is going to be victorious."
Sakura twitched her eyebrow, and gazed towards Karin with bewilderment.
"You think?"
"Yes, Haku is quite smart, and wise when it comes to fighting and she is rather strong as well. And she has her Ice Release. She is very skilled, and she is already Chunin level of skills at least already. So sorry but I don't think that Naruko is going to be able to win."
Sakura and Karin looked hard at one another.
As they did, Anko showed a wild smirk as she stood with the other Sensei's, including that of Pakura who seemed rather distracted by something, though Anko wasn't sure what that was yet, it was clear Pakura's mind was elsewhere.
"Come on Haku! Make it a two for two for my squad!"
Kakashi's lone eye glanced towards Anko.
"It seems you're excited as ever."
"Of course!" Anko boasted a gleeful look. "Because my cute Ryou-kun got through, now it is time for my ice girl to get through. Sorry Kakashi, but my girl is gonna have to take yours to the curb, you get what I'm saying?"
Anko was so happy right now, and sure that her Genin would be able to win, that she pinned her thoughts onto Haku right there and then.
Kakashi didn't say anything for a few moments, gathering his thoughts.
When gathered, he spoke directly to Anko.
"All I'm going to say is that don't underestimate Naruko. She isn't called unpredictable for nothing."
"What, is she going to do the Sexy Ryou on Ryou Jutsu again? My Genin ain't gonna fall for that! Satsuki might though!"
As soon as Anko said it, though she didn't hear it, Satsuki's eyes went towards the area that Anko was. She didn't know why she felt like that, but she felt as if someone was speaking about her, and that wasn't a good thing at all.
But she kept it at bay, and kept her head looking down at the arena to see what was going to happen next.
With Naruko and Haku still in the arena, they waited for their match to begin.
"And now, let the match, begin."
Swinging down his hand, the proctor prompted the two girls to fight, so Naruko got into a plucky type of movement as she swayed side to side, holding a kunai in one hand and in the other, she held what looked like a smoke bomb.
Haku on the other hand chose what she was most comfortable with, and that was a senbon that looked rather thick for such a weapon to usually be.
"Believe it Haku, I'm gonna come out on top!"
Naruko yelled with excitement.
Haku on the other hand seemed to be rather calm.
"Naruko-san, have you learned everything you need to go into this battle?"
"Eh…?"
Naruko drew a blank, so Haku began speaking in a kind manner, but at the same time held her own determination within it.
"About this battle, it isn't simply about winning, it is also about showing what you've got inside as well as out to see if you become a Chunin. Even if you were to lose this match, you still could be promoted to Chunin if you show you have the right mindset and skills to do such a rank."
"Haku...you're speaking seriously all of a sudden. What's going on?"
Haku with her senbon dancing between her fingers, spoke directly to Naruko.
"This is also important to me, because I'd like to become a Chunin. More than simply to say that I am a Chunin, it also furthers my goal in what I wish to do with my life. Like you wish to become Hokage, I also wish to follow my goals and becoming higher ranks would help me achieve it."
Naruko looked surprised.
She didn't know it would mean so much to Haku as well.
Rather than not believing Haku didn't care, Naruko didn't know much about the dream that Haku wishes to speak about, and what she wished to do in the future.
"Haku..."
"Naruko-san, do you remember what we discussed back in the Land of Waves?"
Naruko thought back to it.
And indeed, she did recall about it.
The situations that Haku went through and what she wished to do. How she felt about Zabuza, among other things.
"Yeah...I remember."
"It's precisely that, and other reasons that I wish to become a Chunin and even Jonin one day. Watching Ryou-kun in his match, has also brought new determination to myself. Being a Chunin isn't just about people being that rank Naruko-san. When we're Genin, we follow orders. But as Chunin and above, we give orders, and we can lead teams, and that could mean death if we don't do it right. Because people will look to you for safety, for support. Imagine that, and then going onto being Hokage, they look after the entire village, everyone looks to them for their safety, for their support, and for guidance. Are you ready for that?"
Naruko's face paled.
She knew this of course.
But when Haku said it, it put things into perspective and felt how it would be to be a leader. If she was ready for it.
Satsuki furrowed her brows when she said it, hearing how strong Haku's words truly were.
"Why is she saying that Ryou?"
Ryouta furrowed his brows for a few moments, before inclining his neck.
"I think she also wishes to get Naruko-chan into the mindset she'd need. She also wishes to do her best, of course she does. But Haku-chan cares about her friends, and wishes for them to succeed. It's why she said, even if you fail here, there's a chance you could become a Chunin. And it is true, even though Neji-san lost to me, he still could have a chance to become a Chunin."
As he spoke, Satsuki could understand what he meant.
He then continued as he saw that Naruko's face was filling with more and more determination.
"It is about more than simple fighting ability, it's about how you handle yourself and as Haku-chan said, it is also about being a leader. As that's what Chunin can be, leaders of squads, and she wishes to help Naruko-chan get to the place where she could lead a squad. I think Haku-chan is already there, I could easily see her leading a squad and doing it to the best of her ability. Now she wishes to help her friends achieve the same status that she hopes to achieve as well, that's the kind of person Haku-chan is after all."
Satsuki slowly nods, as Temari notices Gaara leaning her head on Ryouta's shoulder.
She seemed...peaceful.
She hadn't seen that look on Gaara's face before.
Even more than peaceful, she seemed to even be resting on his shoulder.
Her eyes kept closing and opening, as if she was truly at peace when with Ryouta.
Temari also noticed Gaara's sudden movements.
Seeing the peaceful nature of her sister, she didn't expect it at all.
But here she was...so peaceful, it was like a new Gaara.
"Is this what Pakura-sensei talked about? I don't get it...what did they go through for this to happen? Something about the Uchiha boy, has swayed the heart of my little sister, and even soothed the savage beast within her."
Temari's thoughts were cut short when Naruko saw Haku pushed off the ground.
"Then Naruko-chan, let me begin."
Haku then took her senbon and threw it at Naruko.
It moved rather fast, so Naruko tried to dodge out of the way, only to see that Haku appeared before her. Grabbing the same senbon she threw, she redirected it, and sent it towards Naruko's leg in an attempt to disable her.
Naruko pulled back, but she felt the senbon slice her right thigh, causing her to grimace at the feeling.
"Haah!"
Naruko returned it with her kunai, slashing for Haku.
But the young ice maiden grabbed Naruko's arm before it could reach her body, stopping the momentum of Naruko's movements.
"What?"
Naruko was stunned.
Haku had stopped her so precisely that she wasn't able to move at all, and seeing that despite the training she went through, Haku also seemed to go through a development that was putting her in leagues above her.
"Have this."
Haku then flicked her hand out, the back of her hand nailed against Naruko's stomach, slamming so hard into her that Naruko felt her stomach churning, as she was sent flying across the battlefield, Haku's strength even surprised Ryouta.
"When did she get so strong?"
As Satsuki questioned it, Pakura from a different area smiled at how Haku used her speed, and skills in Taijutsu, and she hadn't even used any Wind Release that Pakura had taught her yet, while Ryouta looked on, wondering how Naruko was going to handle this.
Naruko bounced off the ground, and rolled across it.
Trying to regain her senses, she saw that Haku was using one handed hand signs while using her other to take out several senbons, releasing them all at the same time towards Naruko, forcing her to jump towards the left, as Haku finished her hand sign.
"Ice Release, Frozen Capturing Field."
From below Haku, ice formed, and shot across the ground. Covering a wide area, Naruko was in the centre of it.
"She trapped Naruko-chan, and made her the centre so she couldn't escape...smart."
Ryouta murmured, seeing the mindset that she had when it came to her enemy.
Haku had used the senbons to lure Naruko towards that particular location so she could freeze her immediately, and she wouldn't be able to dodge out of the way and all she could do is go back if she stayed on the ground, and Haku made sure that the wall was close to Naruko so even that wouldn't help as the ice would spread up the wall.
"This is it..."
Karin murmured, while Sakura grit her teeth.
"Naruko..."
Sakura hoped her teammate would do well.
Hinata cupped her hands.
"Naruko-san...please do your best..."
Naruko panicked at the sight before her.
She didn't have time to dodge.
She didn't have time to do anything like that.
"If I can't escape anywhere else, then...I'll have to go up!"
So she did the best thing she could, and that was create a clone, which grabbed her, and tossed her high up into the air, as the clone got frozen to the ground and the ice crept up the clone to the point that it covered half way up.
Hiruzen looked on, and murmured "My Naruko, that was a good move." as he hadn't expected her to think so quickly on her feet, yet at the same time was impressed with her quick thinking and wondered if it was in part to Ryouta and her friends, or even Jiraiya, whichever was the case he was quite happy to see Naruko doing it.
While in the air, Naruko created several clones, and she grabbed them.
"Have this!"
Launching the clones at Haku, they came in like missiles for the young girl.
However, Haku didn't bat an eyelid as she weaved through a few hand signs.
"Wind Release, Great Breakthrough!"
Inhaling the air in, and then exhaling it out, she released a violent storm of wind.
Sweeping through the area, even the direct area that Haku was shooting for was being swept up.
"Some intense winds..."
Kiba murmured, Karin nodded.
"She is a genius at Wind Release."
Even though she said that, she also didn't want to fail, so it was hard for Karin to think of what would be best to do.
Because of the winds, the grass, the trees, the dirt on the ground, the stadiums seats also felt the intense breeze brushing through their hair, and across their skin, so they couldn't imagine taking that head on.
The winds were so intense that they ended up blasting through the clones, turning them into smoke, and continued them on for Naruko.
"Eeeeeeeeeeh!"
Naruko couldn't do anything.
She tried creating clones, but they were swept away and destroyed, and Naruko was then hit by the incoming wind blast, slamming hard into her, she went flying up into the air as she let out a cry, and soon came down, smashing deep into the ice Haku had created beforehand.
Bleeding from her forehead, Naruko groaned at the pain she felt.
Pakura looked impressed that Haku could use it so effectively.
"She has been training, and she does have the skills to pull it off. But the way she used it, concentrating the winds so tightly and being able to release it so quickly, she has improved. I'm proud of her."
Haku bowed her head as she weaved through another hand sign.
"Naruko-san, I am sure you will be a fine Hokage one day-"
"I ain't...finished yet..."
Naruko said, as she pulled her upper body off the ground, and sat up.
Sitting up, she pushed her legs, and began getting to get feet.
She then finally got to her feet fully, and faced Haku.
"You said...that this is important to you...and it is important to me too! I can't give up, until I've become Hokage! Haku, I wont let you beat me! I have to show that I can become a Chunin as well! So here I come!"
As she said it...
For a few moments, she felt something sinister within her stirring, the foxes chakra began leaking through...
The power coming over her, beginning to bubble on her skin, she felt an intensity to it like no other...
But Naruko pushed it down, not allowing herself to be lost in that, and grit her teeth.
"Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
Naruko created several clones.
Rather than attack head on, she sent the clones across the arena, surrounding Haku.
Haku saw them all then take out kunai's, with paper bombs attached to them.
"I see, so that kind of attack."
Haku calmly spoke, preparing herself.
[Have this!]
Saying it at the same time, the clones launched their kunai's for Haku who weaved through a few hand signs.
"Ice Release, Ice Rock Dome of Magnificent Nothingness."
Saying that, an ice dome formed around Haku as the named explained. As the kunai's pierced it, they exploded, creating smoke all of the way around. To the point that even the spectators had trouble seeing what was going on around Haku.
Naruko thought that this was her chance, to catch Haku off guard, so she rushed forward, with her tightened fist.
But then she felt something off…
It felt cold.
Behind her, it felt as if something was there.
As she turned, she caught the sight of ice.
The more she turned, she saw a reflection of someone…
In an ice mirror.
Haku stood there, coming out of it and held senbons between her fingers.
"No!"
Naruko tried to dodge, but Haku came out of the mirror and launched several senbons towards her. The senbons pierced her flesh, stabbing across her arms, and her legs, causing Naruko to let out grunts of pain as she did so.
But she didn't even stop, as in the middle of being pierced, Naruko balled her hand and threw it right at Haku who retreated into her ice mirror, and vanished from its reflective surface as Naruko's fist dug into the ice.
It didn't break the ice, but it did leave a good sized crack, something Ryouta mentally praised.
"Her physical strengths increased. I presume it must be thanks to that Sensei of hers. She did mention about learning some Taijutsu from him, and denting Haku-chan's mirror with a simple fist isn't an easy feat by any means. Haku-chan also seemed quite prepared, predicting what Naruko-chan was trying to do, and set up her ice mirror in time for her to launch an attack towards Naruko-chan..."
Ryouta thought that Haku wasn't making any mistakes right now.
Neither was Naruko, in fact she was using a good deal of her mind that he knew she was very capable of. It was just Haku had quite the mind also, and had prediction skills learned with her time with Zabuza and she wasn't an easy opponent to deal with, due to being able to attack from short, mid and long range at the same time, and even could close the distance thanks to her ice mirrors.
Naruko laid on the ground, and panted from the attack she suffered.
Despite the training, Naruko wasn't winning.
Haku still seemed to be above her in strength, speed, and skills.
"Damn it...not like this...I can't lose...like this..."
Naruko gritted her teeth as Haku began running towards Naruko to take her down.
As she did, Naruko felt it again inside.
The foxes power, trying to claw its way to the surface, almost like it was tempting her to use the power...
But if she did, what cost would it be?
"I'm sorry Naruko-san, but this is also my chance to show my skills, and I have to take you down."
Haku snapped Naruko out of her inner thoughts, as Haku's eyes turned to Naruko.
Allowing senbons to appear, she readied her aim to finish off Naruko.
Naruko pulled her body up fully, and she stood before Haku who created an ice mirror before her.
As she did, Naruko also saw the ice that was on the ground before forming mirrors also, surrounding Naruko who tried to escape, but the ice dome of icy mirrors formed fully, creating no area where Naruko could escape.
"This is Haku's strongest move, isn't it?"
Satsuki wondered, Ryouta nodded.
"Yes, this is the move that Naruko-chan is going to have to think of everything to beat her in. If she doesn't do anything now, then she's finished. Haku-chan wont hold back now that she's summoned her mirrors as they take a good deal of chakra to maintain. Perhaps Haku-chan thinks this is the best way to finish the fight."
"Yeah, makes sense. No point dragging it out anymore. She wants to go for the finish."
"Exactly Satsuki-chan. Maybe she wishes to show Naruko-chan that she still has someway to go before doing what she wishes to do. Either way, Naruko-chan is going to learn from this battle, she'll take a way a few things from it."
As he said it, Haku's image appeared in all of the mirrors.
Naruko looked at them all, she couldn't tell which one was the real Haku, and she could slide between each of them without having to worry about it at all.
"Amazing, so that's the Ice Release."
The fourth Kazekage mentioned to Hiruzen who saw the keen look in his fellow Kage's eyes.
"Indeed, she is one of our brightest, and most talented of her age group."
"Yes, I can see. And Ice Release is rather rare, at least I haven't ever seen it up close before. So this is a real treat for me to see."
Hiruzen didn't say anything and simply watched on.
Naruko then summoned a single clone.
"I was saving this until I fought Satsuki, but the time now has come! For my ultimate technique that works on females!"
Ryouta's face paled.
He knew it.
He just knew she was going to do.
"NARUKO-CHAN! DON'T USE THAT TECHNIQUE HERE!"
Naruko stiffened, and looked towards the area Ryouta was in.
"Ryou! Come on, it's my ultimate move against girls! And it will work on Satsuki, so why not Haku!?"
Satsuki huffed while murmuring "Why does she keep saying that I would fall for such a technique?" which caused Temari to laugh and respond with "You did last time." something that caused Satsuki to growl and stare hard at Temari who did the same thing.
Ryouta shook his head as their conversation continued.
"Please don't, not in front of all these people. It's...It's too much for me, I don't think I can handle it...too many people have seen me naked...not again..."
As he spoke, he looked depressed.
He didn't think he'd be able to handle it again.
"Eeeh...but Haku would..."
"Naruko-chan please..."
Naruko pouted.
Gaara looked at Ryouta, and then towards Naruko.
"That technique...where she turns into you...two of you that were naked...I want to see it again."
Ryouta gave a very shocked look towards Gaara.
She was even blushing.
Yet she still held her stoic expression at the same time.
Haku, in the middle of listening to this, shudders before becoming serious.
"Naruko-san, thank you for the fight."
Naruko panicked.
What was she going to do with this now?
She couldn't do anything against such a wide range attack.
Even if she tried to escape, she'd not be able to do anything anyway.
"Damn it...damn it...damn it!"
Naruko's panic was evident on her face.
She then summoned a mass of clones.
People in the crowd were shocked that Naruko effortlessly was able to summon so many Shadow Clones despite it being a Jonin level skill, and seeing how Naruko had summoned them, and wasn't even looking tired. They noticed it before, but now with the sheer amount she had summoned, they were in awe at the chakra levels that she must possess to have such a technique in her arsenal.
[Take this!]
The clones rushed and jumped towards the mirrors to try and break them.
But Haku wouldn't allow it.
"It's over."
In a flash, Haku released senbons from all of the mirrors. A hailstorm of smoke erupted up thanks to the clones being destroyed, the smoke building more and more, even blinding that of Haku for a few moments thanks to the intensity of the smoke.
When she used a small wind release to blow the smoke away, they all saw Naruko laying on the ground.
It looked as if cuts were across her body, thanks to the senbons.
So Haku came out of her mirrors, and walked over towards the downed Naruko.
"Sorry Naruko-san, maybe you can try again in the future."
As she said it, she reeled her arm up with a senbon aimed for Naruko's neck, so she'd be able to disable her.
"So this is how the match ends. Naruko, don't despair, you've done exceptional during this fight. I saw how you handled yourself."
Hiruzen lowered his head, wishing that Naruko could have shown off some more of her skills.
But he was proud of lasting that long against Haku, and she didn't have to truly suffer in the fight, Haku was a kind girl and she didn't want to cause unnecessary damage to someone, so it was clear that Haku only aimed for points that disabled, and not go in for shots that would cause unnecessary damage.
Sakura lowered her head, and released a small breath.
"Naruko...she tried her best, and even then..."
She felt down for her friend.
She didn't want Naruko's dreams to be finished off here.
Karin did the same thing.
"Though I predicted this being the outcome, doesn't make it any easier for me to see a friend go through this. I'm sure she'll be gutted, but she did her best. Haku is just kind of a monster in a fight that has all ranges covered."
Lee who was close by, hearing that released a disheartened breath.
"Maybe next time, she'll be able to do it."
"Lets hope."
Kiba murmured, Hinata's head lowered.
"Naruko-san...even though you might not have won, I think you did really amazing. Launching your Shadow Clones, and then trying to capture Haku-san with those exploding kunai's, I think your tactics were good, maybe next time..."
Hinata's thoughts were cut off, as she saw something was off as she used her Byakugan...
As she approached Naruko, Haku heard a sizzling sound.
"What's that noise...?"
She looked at Naruko, and suddenly light erupted outwards.
Widening her eyes, she tried to retreat, but suddenly Naruko's body exploded in a devastating burst.
"Aaah!"
Haku was smashed through her mirror due to the intensity of the explosive wave and skidded across the ground. The explosion rang within everyone's ears, Hiruzen looked surprised, while Mikoto, Satsuki and Ryouta all could see what she had done.
"What? Did she just suicide bomb herself?!"
Temari yelled, but Ryouta shook his head.
"No, she used a Shadow Clone."
Temari's eyes shot for the Uchiha boy.
"Then where is she?"
Ryouta pointed down at the area that the explosion went off.
As the smoke cleared, a small hole could be seen where the clone of Naruko was.
"She dug underground."
"S-She couldn't have! She didn't have time..."
Temari was sure of it.
But Ryouta explained the best that he could do.
"She did, the smoke covered her escape. The Shadow Clones were used for that distraction, Naruko-chan knew it was pointless to try and escape. So she set up a plan, dig her way out of the area, and hide herself, and even use the clone to explode with some paper bombs that she had on her. She must have thought about Haku-chan and how she might approach, so she did a tactic like this, to damage Haku-chan. It's a very sound tactic."
Ryouta had to say that, as he genuinely thought that to be true.
Naruko had caught Haku off guard, and now she could turn the battle in her favour.
Naruko surprised everyone in the stadium, she was still going strong.
Haku stopped skidding across the ground, and managed to get to her feet.
She looked around for Naruko, but couldn't find her at all.
She then saw the hole within the ground.
"That hole...I see, well done Naruko-san."
Haku had to admit that Naruko did a smart move, even she didn't expect it.
Even making her lower her guard enough for her to receive such a strike.
But now that she was gone, Haku was becoming slightly nervous.
So she weaved through hand signs.
"Ice Release, Frozen Capturing Field."
She thought that if she could freeze the entire hole, then the ice was lead towards Naruko, and freeze her in place, long enough for Haku to finally do some damage to the young girl, or at least that's what she wished to do.
Before her ice reached the hole, she heard something below her.
She looked down and saw the ground breaking, so she pulled back.
However, Naruko's fist came slamming up, and embedded into Haku's torso.
"Gwaaah!"
Haku coughed up bile as Naruko sent her flying away, going at such speeds that she looked like a bullet being propelled through the air.
"That knucklehead hit Haku…"
Anko was smirking.
Not because she liked her teammate being hurt.
But seeing that Naruko didn't go down and she wouldn't lose so easily either.
Even Hiruzen was surprised by what he saw, but like Anko, he was glad she didn't go down easily, and was still fighting.
Kakashi smirked from underneath his mask, and thought "Naruko, you have grown smarter after all. Well done." and watched what was going to happen next, believing that Naruko still had some fight within her yet.
Naruko jumped out of the hole, and watched Haku spin around and land on the wall, using her chakra to cling to said wall.
Bleeding slightly from her mouth due to the punch, Haku wiped it away as she turned her hands towards Naruko.
"Naruko-san, you did something I didn't expect. But now that you have, I'll have to finish you off with my newest Jutsu. One that I have been practising, and one that I wont allow you to beat with Shadow Clones either."
Haku began weaving through hand signs.
As she did, Ryouta didn't recognize them…
No, he did recognize some, but some weren't ones that the usual hand signs used for that Jutsu.
It seemed that Haku had gained a new move after all.
"Ice Release, Ice Dragon Jutsu."
With a blast of cold air around Haku that froze the area running up and down the wall, emerging from around Haku, was a bulk looking snake like Dragon. The jagged ice that came off of the Dragon looked really dangerous, the teeth of the Dragon looked sharp enough to rip through steel. And the size of the Dragon was bigger than the wall Haku stood on, which was very tall to make sure the people didn't get caught up in the fight.
Naruko panicked at the sight of the large ice Dragon.
Ryouta looked at Haku, seeing that she had a hit to her chakra for this Jutsu, so he knew it cost a good deal, and probably more to maintain it, so it meant that Haku was going to be getting super serious now, and she wouldn't hold back, and probably aimed to finish it in a single move.
"Damn...this is what she's been working on?"
"Combining wind and water to make ice, it seems that Pakura-sans wind training wasn't for nothing. The mist is spreading thanks to the wind element, and the water making the ice fluid in its movements...this kind of technique, while like the water Dragon Jutsu, this is Haku-chan's own kind of move..."
Ryouta spoke his mind in accordance to what Satsuki said.
Pakura on the other hand smirked at the sight, while Anko wore surprise on her face.
"Damn, so she did make something new huh. An ice Dragon. I wonder if it has any unique features?"
Anko's words caused Pakura to continue to smirk.
Despite the tense situation of the day at hand, she at least was happy enough to see that Haku was able to use the training they had, and make use of it all her own.
Kakashi looked surprised by what he was seeing.
"This kind of Jutsu, I can't see a way for Naruko to come out of it..."
Though Kakashi said that, he did hope for his student to do her best.
Haku moved her hands, and caused the Jutsu to fly off towards Naruko.
"Ooh crap!"
Naruko began running as she created clones, causing them to jump at the ice Dragon.
But they simply disappeared as the Dragon barreled through the area, smashing them into nothingness. Even when they launched shurikens and kunai's, they froze under the icy mist that the Dragon released.
Even when they got through, they bounced off of the Dragon's body, they weren't able to get through at all.
Naruko could see that she couldn't get close, and she'd not be able to win.
She cursed it, she came so far, but she wouldn't be able to progress.
She looked down at herself, and then towards the ice Dragon, wondering what she could do…
But she then felt a pulse from within her.
A deep chakra that wasn't her own.
"The foxes power is..."
Surrounding her, an aura of red streaming bubbling chakra formed. A deep crimson colour that was noticed by those that knew of the power, including that of Ryouta who recognized it as the Nine Tails, Gaara's eyes looked intrigued when she saw it.
"She's using the foxes power..."
Ryouta thought to himself, his eyes going towards Hiruzen.
Seeing Hiruzen sat there still, looking relatively calm, he knew that Hiruzen would know what was best, so he didn't do anything and simply watched Naruko.
Haku also recognized that Naruko had been through some kind of change.
It was as if she was a different person.
Her chakra felt more sinister.
Like back on the bridge.
"This chakra, is back again. That means, she'll be even more deadly than before. It's okay, I also factored this in. With this move, I think I should be able to do it. I will be able to succeed and finish off my opponent..."
As she watched, she saw Naruko's expression become more feral, as if the foxes power was slowly taking over her form.
Because she was in a weakened state, and she wished to win, the fox was giving his power to her, and that was giving her more and more of a feral like nature, like back on the bridge.
She tried to fight the influence, but found it difficult to do so.
Some that new about her fox, like the adults, looked on wondering what was going to happen.
Those that didn't know about the fox were slightly confused by it, but didn't think much of it, besides a certain few, such as Gaara who could remember a similar expression on her own face that Naruko had at this moment in time.
"Naruko-chan..."
Ryouta was worried for her, if the foxes influence took control now, then maybe Haku could become damaged from something that might not stop.
Haku caused the Dragon to open its mouth, and released some ice in chunks towards Naruko's form to stop her in her tracks.
But Naruko's eyes shoot for them, and she swings her clawing like fingers out, shattering the ice.
Gritting her teeth, Ryouta watched as Naruko suddenly stopped looking so feral...
She breathed in hard, as she yelled within her mind "I wont give in to you!" and fought to compose herself.
Though it was hard, she fought through the influence.
Through sheer will and determination, she wouldn't be at the command of the power, it would work for her if it was there.
Thankfully it wasn't much from the fox, she fought to the surface, keeping the red bubbly like chakra around her as she panted from the mental stress that had begun placing on her.
Ryouta looked on, seeing her expression turn back to the usual Naruko, despite having some red chakra around her.
His eyes glanced to his peers, seeing that their facial expressions hadn't changed.
It seemed they didn't suspect much of anything going on out of the ordinary, but could see some of the adults understanding what this was.
"She's controlling it...a tail hasn't sprouted yet, so she hasn't had to deal with it...but, this is a good step. She couldn't do this back on the bridge, she was losing herself to the chakra. Though this situation is different, the fox seemed to want Naruko-chan to use his powers, and she is...but, she isn't losing control of herself. Well done Naruko-chan."
Ryouta was relieved for her, that she'd be able to put the power she was given to good use.
With Naruko fully back, she aimed her red chakra coloured finger for the ice maiden.
"Haku!"
Haku blinked.
"Yes?"
Naruko, rather than showing a feral look, showed one that was full of desire for victory.
"Lets finish this now!"
Haku watched as Naruko created clones, and used them to launch her towards the Dragon made out of ice. Brimming with determination, and showcasing her strength, she came in like a train as she smashed her fist right into the ice Dragons head.
"I see, then let us!"
Haku used her ice Dragon, battering it right into Naruko's incoming form.
Clashing violently together, the Dragon made of ice began to crack from the intense attack.
However, the Dragon fought back, pushing more and more might into its form, and the ice also began growing across Naruko's body, something that Haku was doing from the distance. Losing some of the shape and density of the ice Dragon, she was able to make it so the ice would hinder Naruko's form.
But to her astonishment, Naruko's form, she felt her movements being hindered. She could feel the ice restraining her. More than the simple act of freezing, the weight of the ice also paused Naruko's movements to a high degree.
So she'd flare her chakra, and broke through the ice, but more would keep coming to freeze her, as she swung her fists out desperately to destroy the ice Dragon before her.
"Both of them are clearly not backing down. They both have determination to fight, and want to win as a result."
Ryouta murmured, Satsuki furrowed her brows.
"It seems that Naruko's just going to punch her way through. Could it work?"
Ryouta shrugged.
"I think with her strength, anything is possible."
With the foxes power, Ryouta thought it was entirely possible for Naruko to win. But Haku seemed to also be factoring that in, even if she didn't understand fully what the foxes power actually was, and using her ice to hinder Naruko as much as possible.
Naruko's small fists broke more and more of Haku's ice Dragon technique.
Haku was having trouble maintaining it.
This was an ice Dragon that she was feeding her chakra into, knowing this would be the move that could help her win.
So when she saw that Naruko managing to shatter more of the ice, but her body was hindered as a result, Haku rocketed off of the wall, and straight for Naruko.
"I don't have a choice, I have to finish this off, my chakra levels are steeply falling, I have to make contact, and finish this!"
Haku's determination shot through the roof, feeling her desires passionately moving her forward.
She also had her goals, she had her dreams.
So, she didn't want to give up now, and showcase how she was able to grow from this.
Naruko, standing on a falling piece of ice, saw Haku coming for her.
"Haku's different to how she was when we first met. She's now filled with her dreams to come true. she is also fighting for her own hopes, and dreams. If I didn't answer hers with my own determination, then I'd be letting her down. And if she didn't do this, I'd be let down. Both of our dreams, our hopes are firing at one another...!"
Naruko decided that this had to be finished off as well, with a single attack.
For both her sake, and Haku's.
They both have put a lot on the line for this, neither were going to give up until the end.
So Naruko rocketed herself off towards Haku in a blazing glory.
"Hakuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!"
"Naruko-san! I wont lose here!"
Shooting at one another in the fastest way possible, Naruko felt the ice hindering her more and more, so she wasted chakra destroying it, while Haku tightened her hand so tight that her knuckles turned white, as she grabbed some ice that was flinging off of the ice Dragon Naruko had shattered.
Clenching the shards of ice between her fingers that had blunt edges, she reeled back her fist as did Naruko.
""Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!""
Naruko and Haku swung for one another.
In the moments that they did, the ices effects on Naruko's body could be felt. Even hindering her, despite the Nine Tails power, Naruko's fist moved slower than Haku's just enough for Haku's fist smashed into Naruko's face first.
Naruko's fist also managed to hit Haku's face, but by the time it did, the impact was less than it would have been, thanks to Haku's use of ice.
Naruko's body was slammed down into the ground harshly, while Haku's went flying back into the wall, cracking it before she fell down to the ground.
The pair hit the ground rather hard, and laid there without moving.
Naruko tried to move.
But she couldn't.
The same for Haku.
Naruko's punch if she had fully got it off, would have damaged her even more and she knew she'd not be able to get up easily.
Naruko also had her healing activated, but the ice also hindered that as well to a degree enough for it to be notable.
It seemed that Haku had thought ahead, and was able to hinder her a good deal.
She didn't have the sheer strength Naruko had, but she had her skills, and she turned them into a weapon to fight on equal terms with Naruko, even going beyond that.
"In the clash, Naruko-chan had the stronger striking power, but Haku-chan recognized that and knew she'd have to take down Naruko-chan in a different way. So that's why she used the ice. In terms of tactics, Haku-chan was able to think of different and unique ways. But Naruko-chan also wasn't stupid in the fight either, and used her mind to escape several of Haku-chan's one shot attacks that could have landed if she made decisions seconds later. Both of them did amazing in this fight, Naruko-chan even managing to stop the foxes control over her progressing to the point she would sprout a tail, during mid fight is very impressive. They both should be proud."
Ryouta was rather proud of them both, seeing how they both had managed to one up the other in different ways. Even though Naruko had the chakra advantage, Haku had managed to cause even Naruko's Nine Tails to be paused. It hadn't gone up to producing a tail yet, which Ryouta knew the power would be drawn more and more out. But the fact that even just a cloak like she had on, and Haku still was able to freeze and hinder Naruko was something amazing.
"Ugh...Haku..."
"Naruko-san...your fists are small...but they hit amazingly strong..."
Naruko and Haku continued laying on the ground.
Haku saw Naruko trying to pull herself up, so she did the same thing.
Moving their worn bodies.
Naruko felt like the chakra of the Nine Tails wouldn't be helping her anymore, it seems to have stopped the chakra.
Haku also felt her own chakra levels having taken a hit with her Jutsu's.
But both girls were determined to get up.
"Amazing, they went all out, and they still wish to do even more..."
Pakura murmured with Kakashi nodding.
"Yes, you're right. These girls have their determinations, and they want to do their best. I don't think they can be criticized for anything that has been achieved here today by both, neither backed down and they countered one another amazingly well, surprisingly well on Naruko's part, it seems that she is becoming more and more of a Ninja."
Anko nodded along with what Kakashi said, she was proud of Haku no matter what.
Haku, on shaky legs, pulled herself to her feet.
Agonizingly so, she managed to stay on her feet, while Naruko got to her knees, before her body suddenly gave out, and she landed on her face.
Coupled with the ice attacks, and the damage she sustained during the fight, even being healed by the fox didn't do everything and Haku's attacks managed to stop Naruko.
She cursed "No..." feeling sadness as she couldn't move.
They waited for ten seconds, and in those seconds, Naruko did her best to try and get to her feet.
She did everything she could.
But her energies left her, and she wasn't able to do it in the end.
"With contestant Naruko unable to move, the winner of the match is Haku."
The crowds roared, as Naruko was taken away to have some rest, Haku also felt her legs shaking, before she saw Ryouta come down towards her.
She fell onto his body.
"That took a lot of chakra out of me."
Haku murmured, Ryouta lightly smiled.
"Yes, now it's alright to take it easy."
Haku fully fell onto him, as he lifted her body off of the ground.
Moving her so he carried her bridal style.
"Ryou-kun...did you see? I...I fought her, she was...an amazing opponent."
"You both did exceptionally well Haku-chan."
Ryouta thought Haku did amazing, considering she had to deal with Naruko's high chakra levels, and her healing factor, coupled with the foxes power, Haku did it all through her skills and ability to adapt.
Though Ryouta also thought Naruko did amazing, thinking outside of the box, and countered someone as smart as Haku, and even controlling the Nine Tails to such a degree.
"Ryou-kun...thank you. I wonder...if Zabuza-sama would have been proud..."
"He will be, next time we see him, you'll be able to show him how far you've come."
That meant the world to Haku, who ended up overlapping her lips onto his own, catching him in surprise.
Satsuki shook her head, murmuring "Damn Haku is a dangerous girl." while Gaara narrowed her brows at the sight.
"That action...I want to do it too with him."
Gaara's words were caught by Temari, who couldn't believe that someone like Gaara would even want to kiss as it showed much affection.
Sakura, and Karin's jaws hit the floor, as Ino who had been mostly silently to this point let out a "Damn!" as Hinata flushed, remembering her own kiss from beforehand.
Anko laughed at the sight, and jabbed Kakashi with her elbow.
"Seems like the kids got some nice girls huh?"
Kakashi chuckled awkwardly, as Pakura leaned back, watching with keen eyes, as Mikoto silently smiled behind her mask at the sight before her.
When breaking away, Haku gave a shy smile.
"I'm sorry, I just felt like doing it."
"Oh...no, don't be sorry at all, I enjoyed it Haku-chan."
Haku smiled, as Ryouta began walking off of the stage with the ice maiden, while thinking about Naruko, and how she was feeling right now.
He hoped she wouldn't be too discouraged, despite what happened, he thought she did amazingly well, maybe even enough to become a Chunin.
As that was going on, Kabuto was stationed outside of the village at a good distance. With Karin and the sensors looking for him, he was doing his best to wait for the signal from Orochimaru for him to go into action.
Kabuto was going over some last minute businesses.
Making sure the forces attacked at the right places.
They had to remain hidden for the longest of times before time was ready and he deployed them on the orders of Orochimaru, where they should go and how they'd attack.
"When this starts, containing the Hokage is paramount, and when we have to, I'll go in and cast that Genjutsu. Though the Uchiha boy will be able to escape it, Orochimaru-sama said he has a plan to activate Gaara...and he hasn't fully even told me yet. Whatever his plan must be, it must be something that he has already set up."
Kabuto didn't doubt the feelings he had about the invasion.
He was sure his Master would be capable of doing everything that was necessary.
He just felt some concern about his own role in the invasion.
However, he didn't let that show to those that were assisting him in this, he wanted to be the best use he could be to Orochimaru.
Stood beside him, was a somewhat recovered Baki.
Though he looked pissed off.
Remembering what happened, he felt hatred run deep through him.
"That damn Hayate...and that damn Uchiha, stopping me like they did..."
"Losing control now is only going to give you worse feelings. We are here to do an invasion, we have to remain calm and collected throughout this, or we could fail. I'm sure that you're aware of what is at stake."
"My land as well as your own. I have no doubts that is what is at stake. I am just expressing my anger at the intense feelings that are running through me, that is allowed, isn't it?"
Kabuto didn't say yes or no to what Baki asked him.
He kept on a calm face.
However, as they were speaking, a certain red haired lady with twin lightning swords came into the shadows, her observant eyes dancing between the people there.
"My...it's time for a party to begin...my, oh my Ryou-kun, have you grown stronger since our last fight? The person that killed Kushimaru, can you give me the best challenge yet? Even though I'd love to see you right now, there's a few things I've got to do..."
The person that came out from the shadows, was Ameyuri herself...
End chapter!
So, thanks to everyone that voted on the poll! The Quirk that won is Reconfiguration! That's gonna be fun to play around with, with how One For All works with that, and how it would work with the things One For All is capable of. The story should be out either this week, or latest next week.
So getting back to this chapter, it focused a good bit on the fight between Naruko and Haku, showing how they both have grown, and learning something's from the other. Though Naruko didn't win, she did show a good deal of growth which will help her grow even more as a Ninja, even Haku learned a few things in her battle with Naruko and both seemed to impress the crowd, and Hiruzen for how they handled themselves during the fight.
Ryouta also spoke briefly to Naruko who expressed some feelings about fighting someone like Haku, and they had a small moment together, along with Haku and Ryouta having one right near the end of the chapter. Kakashi and Ryouta had a small moment together. Yugao and Hayate, despite not being able to be there, are keeping tabs on the matches, and are happy with what's going on.
Then at the end, while Kabuto and Baki wait for the invasion, Ameyuri turned up! Her dangerous eyes set on Ryouta, yet with some of her own agenda. We'll be seeing what she's gonna be doing pretty soon!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Gaara (fem), Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei, Anko, Samui, Hanabi, Mabui,