biofan09: You'll see.

Note: All fans who were confused about my little...anger problem in the authors note go back and read it, it explains it now...also...I deleted the doc from fanfiction too, so that's part of the reason., at least that chapters doc.

Deadly Opponents

Sakura watched as Naruto smirked as he ducked under Sasuke's punch, lashing out with a spinning hook kick that nealy slammed into Sasuke's skull. The young genin blocked the strike with his palm, which revealed the black bandages around Sasuke's hands, before raising his foot quickly in an attempt to kick Naruto in the chin. Naruto however was faster than Sasuke was, avoiding the blow by tilting his head backwards and shifting his weight, making him transfer almost naturally into a backflip.

He wasn't using Krav Maga. He was using the taijutsu style that he was slowly but surely creating. It was based of water and wind element taijutsu. It had the natural flow water style taijutsu had, being able to adapt to any situation and bypass instantly and naturally, while also using the harsh attacking power of wind taijutsu. He called it Nagareken (Current Fist.) However, that was not all of the improvemenets Naruto had made. Out of the twenty levels that Resitance Seals allowed he had progessed to level three quite quickly, mostly thanks to Anko who had her snakes chase him for hours on end. He had also learned four new jutsu, after mastering the basics of both Fuuton and Suiton. One was Fuuton: Daitoppa (Wind Release: Great Breakthrough). This technique was quite similar to Fuuton: Reppūshō (Wind Release: Gale Palm) in the fact that it created a strong gust of wind. However, Fuuton Daitoppa (Wind Release: Great Breakthrough) was much more powerful. Another was Suiton: Hahonryu (Water Release: Tearing Torrent). It created water in the user's hand which could fired off at high speeds. Naruto had even heard of the Second Hokage, Tobirama Senju a legendary man especially in the area of Suiton, and a person Naruto wanted to surpass in the element, had used water in the area to create a torrential wave. Naruto knew he wouldn't ever be able to do something that advanced as his Suiton affinity wasn't as high, but he could get close if he mastered Sution.

However, the next to jutsu were probably his favorite, mainly because they saved him money. They were Shuriken Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique) and its counterpart, the kunai version. Basically they created shadow clones of kunai or shuriken respectively which actually did damage to the opponent and multiple the number you threw in an instant. You could throw one shuriken and suddenly, afer performing the jutsu, 100 lethal shuriken could be upon your opponent. Kakashi had even said there was another form of the technique that was a downgraded version, when the shurien created were actually fake. Naruto had wanted to learn it, so he could trick his opponents, but Kakashi had said he would teach it to him later. He had also advanced to the high-intermidiate level of seals.

However, Naruto was not the only one to have grown. Sasuke had mastered the basics of Raiton and was well on his way into Katon, and Sakura had even volunteered to help him. He had learned new jutsu two, one Katon and one Raiton. Raiton: Jibashi (Lightning Release: Electromagnetic Murder) and Katon: Karyūdan (Fire Release: Fire Dragon Bullet). Sasuke had also managed to get some kenjutsu training from Kakashi, which greatly surprised him. He hadn't expected his sensei to know tantojutsu. That in turn helped him get an idea. He had started to develop his own kenjutsu style like Naruto was developing his own taijutsu style. It was based of fire technqiues, and was key on sending sharp blasts of fire through the sword, although he had changed it so any element could be used it went along better with his plan that way, along with harsh, powerful attacks that aimed to break bones. He called it Shinkubara (Crimson Rose.) He had named it that because he originally designed it for fire affinity users, and it was an Uchiha Clan only kenjutsu, and their eyes turned crimson when using the Sharingan. Of course Sasuke had yet to find a way to channel fire through the blade. His Sharingan had also developed to having two tomoi in each eye. Kakashi even taught him a few genjutsu to go along with the Sharingan, although all of them required eye-contact. As a bonus he had begun to wield Kubikiribocho with ease that was becoming more and more like Zabuza's. However, the blade was still big on him, so he wore it on his back, perfering to not seal it away. His project had also been going well, although his handsusually got burned in the process as it wasn't complete yet.

Sakura had probably improved the most out of them though. She had mastered water walking, fighting Naruto on the water for a full hour, and she didn't complain about getting hit once. She had mastered the basics of Katon manipulation, and learned three jutsu in the element, along with a Doton jutsu to counter Suiton techniques, unlike Naruto and Sasuke who stuck to what they were good at. The three Katon jutsu were Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu (Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique), Katon: Hōsenka no Jutsu (Fire Release: Phoenix Sage Fire Technique), and Katon: Kasumi Enbu no Jutsu (Fire Release: Mist Blaze Dance Technique). Sakura was actually surprised she knew the first one as the Uchiha Clan had created it. Sasuke had taught her it as he thought she had been improving nicely, which she appreciated and told him he wouldn't regret. The Doton jutsu was Doton: Doryūheki (Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall). It was a defensive attack. Sakura had also improved her strength, taking to wearing weights on her ankles and wrists, after seeing how fast Naruto had become. He had offered to paint his Resitance Seals on her, but the second she realized she had to be near naked to do so she refused. She had also started using senbon instead of kunai and shuriken. This change happened after Kakashi gave her a medical ninjutsu book, and she found out what they perfered to use, senbon, instead of kunai and shuriken. She had taken to it like a fish in water, learning some basic medical ninjutsu, and improving her accuracy so she could wield senbon effectively. Because of the nature of senbon she had bought a book that gave her detailed explanation on human anatomy, along with more medical ninjutsu knowledge. The book apparently was written by none other than Tsunade Senju, one of the Densetsu no Sannin (Legendary Three Ninja), and the leader in medical ninjutsu developments. Or at least she was. Sakura had also found a taijutsu style that she rather liked in the library. It was meant to use combo strikes to key areas specific body parts and once the opponent was able to retaliate getting away before coming in again. It was developed by a medical ninja no less so it made her happy she was able to use it. The taijutsu was called Kaikaken (Blossom Fist.) She had also progessed quickly in genjutsu.

Naruto frowned as Sasuke's dark orbs became crimson. 'He was following me without using his Sharingan huh? Let's see if he can keep that up once I kick it up a notch,' Naruto thought still refusing to take off his seals. He didn't want Sasuke to think he was forcing him to go all out.

Naruto shot forwards, going full speed, or the closest thing he could with his Resistance Seals, still active. Sasuke smirked, his brain registering a right hook coming in before Naruto launched the attack. The predicition ability of the Sharingan was scary. Naruto launched the right hook. However, Sasuke knew what to expect, ducking under the hook and launching a right hook with unnatural ease. Naruto's eyes widened, but he knew how to respond.

With whatever came naturally to him.

Naruto shifted his weight to the right, and allowed his body to fall that way spinning away from Sasuke's punch before launching a punch in retaliation. Sasuke's eyes widened as he realized he had been played. So it seemed that even the Sharingan couldn't predict everything. Sasuke grabbed the Kubikiribocho and jumped away, barely avoiding Naruto's punch. He was sure if Naruto took off his seals it would have connected.

Sasuke drew the Kubikiribocho, and hefted it over his shoulder. However, the blade was not in the condition Lee had left it in. The blade looked good as new, and that was because Kakashi had taught Sasuke the blades secret. As long as Sasuke had the handle of the blade, the smallest amount of blood could repair the blade to as good as it was originally.

Sasuke charged, appearing as a blur to Sakura. She frowned as she noticed it. Her eyes still couldn't keep up Sasuke's speed. She feared what would happen if she fought Naruto and forced him to release his weights. She probably wouldn't be able to see him move. Nonetheless Sasuke swung his blade towards Naruto's neck as he grew closer. Naruto's eyes narrowed as he noticed this, ducking under the swing before leaning his weight forwards, and pushing off with his legs, shooting off like a rocket towards Sasuke.

The distance was too small for Sasuke to prepare. Naruto's headbut connected with Sasuke's gut, throwing the Uchiha back from the amount of force Naruto had put into it. Sasuke landed on his feet, rubbing his stomach and groaning. He frowned stabbing his blade into the ground. He weaved through handseals, his face contorting with focus. "Raiton: Jibashi (Lightning Release: Electromagnetic Murder)!" Electricity gathered in Sasuke's hands before he slammed them onto the ground. Naruto's eyes narrowed before they widened as massive currents of electricity travelled through the ground, tearing it to shreds. Naruto growled, biting his finger before slamming his hand onto the ground. He was happy he kept the formula on his hand at all times, even if the effects were dangerous.

"Fuinjutsu: Bakuhatsu Ishi (Sealing Technique: Exploding Stone)!" Naruto roared. The seal glowed before a massive explosion shook the ground, making Naruto's hand tingle as it sent rocks flying into the air. Naruto frowned as he stood on one. Sure, he didn't have to keep a seal formula on his hand, in fact it was undoubtedly dangerous, however it had saved him in many spars. True, he could just make handsigns and then make it explode by signaling chara to it, but that seemed like to much work in a split second. His way was so much easier. Just bite and go. Then again he did have to get better chakra control to even use the exercise. He had to use sme chakra to protect his hand and more chakra to make it work. Too much chakra and the explosion woulnd't be as large, but too little and he'd damage his hand. In all hoesnty he still hadn't gotten the right amount yet, hence the tingle.

As the smoke caused by the explosion cleared Naruto touched down, staring across the crater he had created to see Sasuke staring back at him. They both smirked. Both of them hadn't even begun to do all to yet, they wanted the other to make the first move. However, eventually one of them would force the other to go all out, which in turn would force them both to go all out.

Naruto and Sasuke were about to continue before Kakashi appeared, standing next to the crater. "That's enough. You guys have shown me your progress, both of you are excellent, mid-chunin level if I'm honest. You two could probably beat some chunin if you truly went all out. However, this isn't the time to go all out, this is the time to test each others limits. You do have an exam tomorrow."

Sasuke frowned but sheathed his blade, putting it on his back. It was a small chakra control exercise. As long as the blade staid connected to his back his chakra was maintaining the connection. However, it did cost him chakra, so his reserves had actually improved, as he had fought long battles with Anko while keeping the blade on his back for seven days, six hours each battle. His reserves would have had to go up with the type of fighting he was doing, along with keeping part of his concentration on the blade he wasn't allowed to use.

"Speaking of exams, you guys all signed the forms right," Kakashi asked. Sakura nodded, handing hers to Kakashi. Naruto and Sasuke followed soon.

"Good. Be at the academy tomorrow at ten in the morning, room 304. The exams begin then. Dismissed."

Kakashi disappeared in a swirl of leaves.

Naruto frowned. "I wish he'd teach us that jutsu!"

XxX

Konohamaru had short, spiky, brown hair and black eyes. He also had a small chip in his tooth. He wore a yellow shirt with the Konoha symbol in red, grey shorts, and a long blue scarf. He wore a pair of goggles.

Moegi wore goggles. She had orange hair tied up, with red elastics, into two very large pigtails. She also had a perpetual blush. She wore a red tank-top over a pink t-shirt layered at the bottom; her pants were grey and she wore the traditional ninja sandals.

Udon had short brown hair and dark eyes. He had a drop of snot hanging from his nose. He wore a simple blue shirt which zipped up the middle, a pair of brown pants, sandals and a pair of goggles.

Naruto smirked as he looked at the academy students. "Hey Konohamaru, Moegi, Udon." Naruto called as they ran over to him. The three children smiled, looking at the role-model. "Hey Naruto-nii, can we play ninja today? You promised." Naruto's eyes widened. He had completelty forgotten. "In one second. I'm getting something to eat and you guys can come with me if you want," Naruto said, walking to Ichiraku Ramen. Konohamaru and his friends smiled, catching up to him.

As Naruto walked into the resturant, sitting on a chair he looked up at Ayame who was reading the newspaper.

"Hey, nee-chan," Naruto said. Ayame dropped her newspaper in surprise, nearly screaming. She glared at Naruto and his three friends as they all burst into fits of laughter. It was obvious Ayame did not find it funny.

"NARUTO!" she roared, raising a frying pan. Naruto paled. He had nightmares about what Ayame would do to him with the frying pan. Ayame brought the pan downwards, but and Naruto quickly deactivated his seals, not wanting to take any chances.

The fryng pan went through his head.

"Naruto-nii!" Konohamaru called before he looked at the form of Naruto strangely.

However, no calls of pain. In fact, it went through his body. It was then the form of Naruto disappeared.

"No way," Ayame said. Naruto smirked as he stood beside her, his arm slung around her neck. "Yup. I'm fast enough to leave afterimages. I'm just that cool, although if I admit it Lee is still faster than me, especially when he uses the Gates. I'm still trying to learn how to activate them."

"That's so cool," Moegi said. Konohamaru nodded. "Yeah, Naruto-nii teach us to do that!" Udon nodded. "I concur."

Naruto laughed. "Well, to teach you you'd have to wear Restriction Seals, and you guys aren't strong enough to fight off level one yet. You're too young. When you become genin maybe I'll let you guys do it."

Ayame just shook her head, pointing to his seat. "Naruto Uzumaki go sit down," she said.

Naruto smiled and did so.

"Five bowls of miso ramen!"

XxX

Hinata walked into the room, a worried look on her face as she did so. Her father said he had to talk with her about something, but she didn't know what it was. It was intimidating, even if her father seemed to be becoming more proud of her as the days went on. Hinata saw her father motion for her to sit. She did so.

There was silence for a while until Hiashi spoke.

"Are you competting in the Chunin Exams?"

"Yes father."

Hiashi's eyes softened as she called him father. Most daughters called their fathers tou-san, a more affectionate way of saying it. Had he really become so cold to her and Hanabi that they were afraid to show affection?

"Hinata…call me tou-san." Hiashi said, causing Hinata's eyes to widen in shock. That wasy something…unexpected. However, the love of her father, her father allowing this, it was something she couldn't pass up.

"Yes…tou-san." She mumbled, smiling lightly.

Hiashi decided to get unto the point of his talk with her. Naruto. "Hinata, what are your feelings for Naruto?" he asked, no, demanded.

Hinata's eyes widened in shock. She couldn't believe her father was asking that question. It was so…strange. Her father hadn't cared much about her social life before. Then again, he seemed to take special intererest in Naruto, being kinder with him than even members of his own clan. He supported Naruto always, and even allowed him to come over when most non-Hyuga's who were not a sensei to a Hyuga could not. She had always assumed there was something very special about Naruto to do that, but she assumed it was his charisma, or the fact he helped her better herself. However, she was slowly starting to get a better idea.

"I…care for him very much…he's…he's important to me. I want to protect him…even if it costs me my life. He's…so bright…he…he's," Hinata paused. She couldn't put it into words. However, Hiashi could.

"Do you like this boy?"

Hinata nodded.

Hiashi smirked. This was her final test. "Do you have a crush on this boy?"

Hinata blushed madly, her entire face turning a deep crimson. She began to stutter, something she had not done in a long time, however Hiashi put a hand on her shoulder.

"Calm down. Tell me the truth."

Hinata nodded and took several deep breathes. She didn't know if she could say this, it was so embarresing. No, not embarresing, just weird. Her father had never asked her such questions and because of that she was unused to them.

"I-I-I….I think I do."

Hiashi smiled, something Hinata was not expecting. He opened his mouth slowly, for dramatic affect. Even he could have some fun at times.

"I will not say that you should date this boy for the sake of the Hyuga clan…" Hiashi began, and he meant it. In all honesty, he cared more about his daughters than he put on. Of course he knew sometimes the clan had to come first, but if he had to choose between the future of the clan, or his daughters' happiness, he would choose them. He was a father after all.

"In fact," Hiashi said. "If you…interacted…with him, I would not mind."

Hinata's eyes widened. She couldn't believe what her father had implied. He had basically just said that if she somehow began to date Naruto…he wouldn't stop it. That was as close as consent as she would get. Her eyes watered, a massive smile breaking out onto her face.

"I might even support it."

She stood corrected. Her father would support her in the choice. She couldn't hold back the tears any longer. She leapt into her father, crying and giving him a hug.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you tou-san."

Hiashi smiled. "There is no need to thank me." 'You remind me to much of Hikari and me to refuse.'

XxX

Naruto smirked as Konohamaru, Moegi, and Udon hid behind the fake sheet of paper that was similar to the gate. However, their feet and hair was showing. Once again, they had terrible disguises. Naruto was about to call them out before Sakura walked up.

"Hey Naruto," Sakura said, surprised to see him here. "What's up?"

Naruto turned to Sakura. "Oh, I'm playing ninja with Konohamaru, Moegi, and Udon." Sakura blanched. 'A ninja playing ninja? How childish.'

"Speaking of which…" Naruto trailed off, appearing before the sheet the academy trio were hiding behind. He ripped off the sheet, smirking as he did so. "Found you."

Konohamaru smiled. "I would expect no less from my eternal rival."

Naruto's face grew stiff. 'That's way to much like Guy-sensei for my liking now that I thnk about it.'

Konohamaru then noticed Sakura who was watching them with an amused expression on her face, however it did have the hint of annoyance.

"Hey boss is she your…" Konohamaru trailed off, lifting his pinkie. Naruto's eyes widened before he noticed Sakura's eyes become hidden by her hair, and her hair begin to rise. Naruto shook his head before she could do anything.

"No she isn't."

Sakura was about to yell when she heard this. That was…really mature of Naruto. She looked at him with a sad smile. She guessed the fact she wasn't his girlfriend was her fault. In retrospect she probably should have picked the guy who noticed her than the guy who didn't. She was too infuated with Sasuke's dark, and cool demeanor. At least she wasn't now. Her fangirl tendencies had disappeared mostly. She still would compliment every now and then, although you could hardly call that being a fangirl. Still, Sasuke noticed her now, so she was determined to win him over.

Sakura still had to punish the brat though.

Sakura rushed towards Konohamaru whose eyes widened before he ran, followed by Moegi and Udon who too were not safe from Sakura's wrath. Only Naruto was, because he said she wasn't. However, that didn't mean he was going to not watch this hilarious event take place. He easily jogged behind them, making sure he wasn't to close, yet not to far away. It was rather simple considering the fact he was around four times faster than Sakura with his Restriction Seals on.

Konohamaru somehow managed to keep ahead of Sakura for a while, heading into one the more unused streeds, although it was kept well before he ran into someone. Said person wore a black, baggy, full body suit with a red and yellow circle on the front. He also wore a black hood which covered his head completely, and had cat-like ears and his forehead protector on his forehead. He sported a triangular face-paint design. Sakura's eyes widened as Konohamaru slammed into the person, while holding Moegi and Udon back.

There was a girl behind him. She had teal eyes and blonde hair, which was gathered into four ponytails. She wore a single, light purple-colored, off-the-shoulders garment that extended halfway down her thighs, with a scarlet sash tied around her waist. A fishnet was worn over her shoulders and legs, specifically on her right calf and her left thigh. She wore a black forehead protector around her neck. A quick glance at the forehead protector showed they were both from Sunagakure.

The male picked Konohamaru up by the scarf, slowly strangling him.

"Hey brat what the hell is wrong with you!? You're gonna run into me for no reason! How about you watch where you're going!"

The girl sighed. "Calm down Kankuro, we don't have time for this."

The presumed Kankuro turned and glared at the girl. "No way Temari, I'm gonna teach this brat a lesson."

Sakura put her hands up. "Please, it was an accident."

Kankuro rounded on her. "Shut up," he said, raising his fist to hit Konohamaru. Naruto decided to interfere. Naruto past Sakura, putting his hand on her shoulder as he did so.

"You should stop," Naruto said.

Temari's eyes scanned Naruto, smirking as she did so. 'Konoha has some good looking shinobi.' She thought, apparently thinking Naruto was cute.

Kankuro turned to Naruto, his eyes alight with annyoance. "Who the hell do you think you are? You're just some overgrown pipsqueak."

Naruto smirked. "A pipsqueak who will wipe the floor with you."

Kankuro's eyes narrowed as he dropped Konoharmu who ran behind Naruto.

"Naruto-nii's gonna kick your ass!" the young boy yelled. Kankuro growled, grabbing the large object covered in wrappings on his back. He shrugged it off, before slamming it on the ground. "Care to repeat that, brat…" Kankuro whispered dangerously. Temari's eyes narrowed. "Kankuro, we don't have time for this."

Kankuro smirked, as did Naruto. "Don't worry, this will only take a second." Suddenly Naruto disapepared, reappearing behind Kankuro with a kunai to the teen's neck. Kankuro hadn't seen him move.

"You're right," Naruto said. "It will only take a second," he said, his voice dropping dangeroulsy low.

Kankuro's and Temari's eyes widened. 'No way, so fast. I didn't see him move.' Kankuro thought.

'So fast. He's strong,' Temari thought.

Two pebbles shot from a nearby tree, one hitting Kankuro and Naruto catching the other. They people gathered looked over to see Sasuke sitting on the tree, his customary scowl on.

"Get lost."

Temari smirked again, looking at Sasuke. 'Konoha is filled with cuties.'

Kankuro sighed as Naruto backed away, walking back over to Konohamaru and kneeling to get eye-level with the boy.

"Are you okay?" he asked. Konohamaru nodded. Naruto smiled. "Good, pay attention next time though, okay?" Konohamaru nodded. "Will do Naruto-nii."

Naruto smiled, standing before he turned to Kankuro who was putting the object back on his back.

"It's a good thing you didn't hit him, for your case. He is the Hokage's grandson."

Kankuro's eyes widened to unfathomable sizes. "W-W-What!?"

Temari sighed. "Good going Kankuro," she said sarcastically.

"You're a disgrace to our village," said a voice. Everyone turned to see a teen standing upside down on a tree. The teen was a little shorter than the average height of males his age. He had fair skin and short, spiky, red hair. He had pale, blue-green eyes. He had no distincitve pupils or eyebrows. He had two very notable traits in his appearance: firstly, the tanuki-like black eye rings, and the kanji for love that was on the left side of his forehead. He wore a full black body suit with a t-shirt-like sleeves. He wore a white cloth over his right shoulder and the left side of his hips, and a wide leather band system over the left shoulder and right side of his hips. The gourd on his back was held up by the leather band. There was a black forehead protector over the band, marking him as a shinobi, specificcally one from Suna.

"Have you forgotten the reason we came all the way here?" he asked.

"I-I know, I-I mean, they challenged us, they started the whole thing really. See, here's what happened-" Kankuro tried to say.

"Shut up," the teen interupted. "Or I'll kill you."

Naruto and Sasuke tensed. The teen didn't seem to take notice or didn't care.

"Ah, right, I was totally out of line, I'm sorry Gaara, I was totally out of line," Kankuro stuttered.

"I'm sorry, for any trouble he caused," the teen said.

'This guy's…got an evil look in his eye. And I couldn't sense him. He's good.' Sasuke thought.

'This guy…I don't like the feeling he gives off,' Naruto thought.

Gaara turned to look at Naruto and Sasuke. 'These two are people to watch out for. The blonde is fast, and the raven-haired one is skilled, I can see it in his posture.'

As Sasuke stood the teen turned into sand. Sasuke's eyes widened before he hopped down to land next to Naruto. The sand flew towards Kankuro before solidifying back into the teen.

'A Shunshin (Body Flicker) with sand,' Sakura thought, her eyes narrowing.

"Let's go," the teen said. "We didn't come here to play games."

"Alright sure, I get it." Kankuro said. Sakura blanched. Couldn't this guy tell when to shut up? He was so much like Naruto it was creepy. They began to walk away, but Sakura still had some questions for them.

"Hold on."

They kept walking.

"Hey!"

They stopped. "What?" Temari called.

Sakura smiled. "You three are here for the Chunin Exams aren't you? That's the only reason I would think you were here, as I doubt you're here for a mission, or just because we're allies."

Temari smirked, turning, as did Gaara and Kankuro, although the smirks did not go on their faces. "We'll aren't you the perceptive one?" Temari mocked. "Yes, we're from Sunagakure, and we're here for the Chunin Exams, what of it?"

Sakura smiled, but Naruto answered Temari's question. "Just wondering who we have to beat for our competition."

Temari smirked, as did Kankuro. Kankuro wanted payback against the blonde and the raven haired one, but Temari just wanted to see some interesting competitors. She had found them in this team. However, she also realized the threat they could pose. The blonde was already to fast for them to see, and the raven haired one just radiated skill, combined with the blade on his back, making them seem like a dangerous team. The only one who didn't seem dangerous was the kunoichi, although Temari knew better than to judge a book by its cover. In all honesty, the team as it was now could probably beat them, if it weren't for Gaara.

They turned, beginning to walk away before Sasuke stopped them this time. "Hey, you! Identify yourself."

They stopped, turning around. "You mean me?" Temari asked.

"No him, the guy with the gourd on his back."

"My name is Sabaku no Gaara (Gaara of the Sand Waterfall.) I'm curious about you too. What is your name?"

"I'm Sasuke Uchiha."

The air instantly tensed at that, and a gust of wind flew by.

"So he's here. That could prove troublesome," Naruto heard in mind.

'What do you want fuzzball?'

The Kyuubi growled. "Shut up."

Naruto mentally rolled his eyes before he zoned back in on the conversation. Gaara turned to him. "You. I would like to know your name as well."

"Naruto Uzumaki," Naruto said with a smirk.

Temari looked at him strangely. "Fishcake?" Naruto sighed and shook his head. "The other one." Temari's eyes widened. "That does make more sense. Maelstrom."

The air tensed again, possibly even more.

"Interesting…," thought a voice. Gaara raised a mental eyebrow.

They turned, using chakra to shot themselves into the air as they hoped across buildings.

Naruto and Sasuke smirked, thinking the same thing simulatneously.

'Things are getting interesting.'

'More interesting than you know,' Kurama thought before closing his eyes and taking a nap.

The team then turned, walking away. As they left, three forms could be seen on a tree.

One had bandages covering most of his face, leaving only his left eye uncovered. He also wore a large poncho with long sleeves, a snake patterned scarf around his neck, a straw raincoat protruding from the back of his scarf, and a large amplifier on his right arm. His back was hunched, which made him look smaller than he actually was.

Another had spiky, dark hair and dark eyes. He wore a beige shirt with two black stripes and three prints of the kanji for death down the front. His forehead protector had an attached happuri under the cloth rather than connected to the metal plate. He wore a snake patterned scarf around his neck.

The only female of the group had very long, black hair, almost reaching down to the treebranch, tied by a violet ribbon right near the end, and black eyes. She wore a forehead protector, a pale green vest somewhat similar to a flak jacket, and snake patterned pants and scarf.

Each had a headband with a musical note on it.

"What do ya think Dosu?" asked the one with spiky, dark hair.

"We might have to go out of our way for this one. I don't know how skilled the two girl were, but the Uchiha, Uzumaki, and desert brat, we should watch them…carefully."

XxX

Naruto woke up the next day at eight yawning lightly. He then quickly threw on his clothes, did some light exercise, before checking, double-checking, and triple-checking his equipment to make sure he had everything. He had his 350 shuriken, 200 kunai, 100 explosive tags, 30 scrolls, extra food, five water bottles, two of which were already on his person, his fuinjutsu book, food pills, bandages, simple first aid, and more. He sealed all the exess supplies into multiple scrolls assigned for specific things before sealing them all into one large scroll. He didn't know how much stuff he needed so he came with a lot. Better to be overprepared than underprepared. He conencted the scroll to his back, keeping it there with a leather band.

Naruto checked the clock. He still had about an hour to kill so he walked out, heading over to Ichiraku Ramen's for a second. He smiled as he walked in. "Hey Teuchi, Ayame, I'll be gone for a bit. I don't know how long exactly, but anywhere between weeks to a month would be my guess. Can I get some ramen for the road?"

Teuchi and Ayame nodded, beginning to make the ramen.

"Where are you headed?" Teuchi asked. Naruto shrugged. "Dunno. All I know is that it's part of the Chunin Exams. Apparently I have to head to the academy though I doubt it'll be that simple."

Teuchi nodded. "Good luck Naruto, you might need it." Naruto nodded. "Thanks." Ayame came over, ruffling his hair which shot up the instant her hand left his hair. She gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

"Nee-chan," Naruto grumbled, blushing. She just laughed and walked away. Teuchi finished the bowls quickly, handing them to Naruto who sealed them up and put them in an extra kunai pouch. He then handed the money to Teuchi before rushing off.

"Later, Teuchi, Ayame!"

They waved.

Naruto was about to start heading over to the academy when he saw Hinata.

"Hey Hina-chan, how's it going," he asked.

Hinata looked at him, a smile breaking her face as she saw him. "Good morning Naruto-kun. I'm fine, how are you?"

"I'm fine. Getting ready to take place in the Chunin Exams. Are you competitng too?"

Hinata nodded. Naruto smiled brightly, enveloping her in a hug. "That's great!"

Hinata and Naruto both kept the hug going longer than they should have. They both felt so…warm…full…complete. It was hard to describe, but Naruto wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and kiss her, yet he couldn't explain the feeling.

'This feeling again. I've been sure of it for a while now…I…I like Hinata,' Naruto thought. Hinata thought back to what her father had told her.

(-Flashback-)

"If you…interacted…with him, I would not mind. I might even support it.'

(-Flashback-)

Hinata felt a rush of courage that she knew she would not feel for a long time. She knew it was now or never.

"Naruto-kun…can I ask you a question?"

"You just did." Naruto said, a sly smile on his face.

Hinata rolled her eyes slightly before Naruto nodded. "What is it?"

"What…what do you think of me?"

Naruto looked at her strangely. "What do I think of you? I think you are an amazing person. You're compassionate, understanding, easy to talk to, gorgeous…I'd say you're really…you're the type of person I'd like to spend the rest of my life with."

Hinata blushed furiously as she heard this. That related to what she had in mind.

"If that's true…Naruto-kun…would you..." she gulped. "Would you date me?"

Naruto's eyes widened as his dense self finally registered what she meant. "You mean like…boyfriend and girlriend?"

Hinata nodded, unable to look him in he eyes for fear she might faint. Naruto paused, thinking on it. It was true that he knew he felt that way about Hinata, he knew he did. But dating so soon after he felt true heartbreak. Was he ready for that? If he connected the dots throughout his life he knew Hinata felt the same way about him, which actually made him surprised. He had never noticed. She had for a while. At least he knew he wouldn't suffer heartbreak, in fact…he knew she was the perfect match for him.

His silence however made her unsure. "I'm sorry it was a stupid-"

Naruto interupted her with a quick kiss on the lips, settling his decision. Hinata blushed madly. "I'd love to be your boyfriend."

Hinata fainted.

XxX

Naruto appeared in the academy, carrying Hinata on his back. He saw Sakura and Sasuke waiting for him, both with an eyebrow raised as they saw Hinata.

Naruto shook his head. "It's a long story."

They took his word for it and walked up a flight of stairs, completely bypassing the group of genin that got caught by the simple room 304 genjutsu…they had only walked up one flight of stairs, this was the second floor. Naruto noticed Tenten, Lee, and Neji in the crowd, but Sakura and Sasuke forced him to continue walking.

They walked up another flight of stairs, to see Tenten, Lee, and Neji standing there.

"It seems us pretending to really want to get in the room did well. You guys didn't fall for it though," Neji said.

Sasuke smirked. "We wouldn't fall for such tricks."

Neji smirked. "It doesn't matter. Fate has decided I will become a chunin." Naruto growled at that, but said nothing.

Lee sighed before looking at Naruto. "I wish you good luck. You will need it my most youthful friend." Naruto nodded, smiling. "Good luck to you too, Lee."

Tenten nodded to Naruto who nodded back before they she walked away. Team seven paused, looking at each other. Then, as one they began walking.

They walked up to the door of the room, noticing Kiba and Shino were standing there.

"Hey, Naruto, why is Hinata with you?" Kiba called.

"Oh, we had a conversation and she fainted. That's all I can say at the moment."

Kiba narrowed his eyes but took Hinata, something Naruto did not protest against. "Good luck. You guys will need it." Kiba rolled his eyes.

"We're the top dogs around here."

With that they walked through the door. Naruto rolled his eyes and turned, to see Kakashi looking at them.

"You all came."

"Of course," Sakura said. "Who wouldn't? This is our chance."

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "So, are you all ready? This is the last time I'll see you guys in a while."

They nodded. Kakashi smiled. "Good. I've never been one for good motiavotional speeches so I'll just say these two things. You guys are the best genin team I've ever trained, and good luck."

Sasuke blanched. "We're the only genin team you've ever trained." Kakashi eye-smiled.

They just rolled their eyes before nodding, holding eye-contact with their sensei for a moment.

"Kick some ass for me," Kakashi said. They nodded and turned. "Will do."

Kakashi disappeared in a puff of smoke as Naruto stood in front of the door, Sasuke and Sakura at his side.

"You guys ready?"

"Yeah."

"LET'S KICK SOME ASS!" they all roared at the same time they walked through the threshold.

Hey guys it's Kuma Akuma. I have good news. This evening I should be getting a new laptop. I've learned my lesson. Anyways, I have a question for you guys, who do you think those three in the tree were. It's fucking obvious. Also, NaruHina has started, so yip-yip (Appa) hurray! No more PMs about that starting, luckily. The Chunin Exams begin next chapter, but the arc started this chapter, along with Gaara's introduction. I personally thought that bijuu should be able to sense when one another were around, hence why Kurama and Shukaku knew the other were there. I don't know if it's an ability they actually have and I'm to lazy to check, so I'm calling it Kishi's just in case. More so, yup, Naruto's gotten that fast, and is also making his own taijutsu style. I also revealed why I gave Sasuke the Kubikiribocho, at least my personal reason, so he could make his own kenjutsu style. I want both of them to be known for more than what I plan on giving them, plus Sakura will start to invent stuff, so don't worry. More importantly, what is this project of Sasuke's that damaged his hands? Also, how dangerous will Gaara prove to be? I know...you don't. Sorry. Also, how will the exams change? Again...I know...you don't. It sucks to be the readers doesn't it? Never knowing what will happen until it does, especially with authors like me who love cliff hangers. Then again, some of you are smart and know what will happen, you know who I'm looking at my plot discoverers out there. Then again, authors wouldn't exist without you guys so that you. We've also, basically, caught up to LW in popularity, so give yourselfs a pat on the back. In fact, if we compared the stats, this is my most popular story, so thank you. That it. See you later and avoid the Earl.

P.S.: For those of you who are reading my Bleach story for the poll Nel and Orihime are tied for 21 votes each, so vote on that! Also, review, favorite, follow, and all that jazz, including point out my mistakes.