Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit
Chapter 12: Sai
At the Hokage's private training grounds Zabuza was conducting an experiment in regards to Naruto's training. There were currently four rows of Narutos with each row containing five Narutos. He had Naruto and his clones practicing a kenjutsu kata. When he encountered a clone doing the kata perfectly he would tell it to dispel and then sit back and watch as all the Narutos began to correct their forms.
He had to wonder why it never occurred to him to use the shadow clones this way. He wished it had been his brilliant idea, but no this experiment was the result of a tip from the Hokage. No wonder they called the man The Professor, if he had used the shadow clones like this it was easy to believe the rumors that he had mastered almost all the jutsu of his day and age.
Reaching up Zabuza felt the Kohona headband he now wore and scratched under the metal plate, the damn thing itched. He doubted he would ever get used to wearing it. Telling another clone to disperse he had to marvel at the blonde boy, when it had donned on Naruto that Zabuza had joined Konoha he had immediately asked what that meant for his ambition. Zabuza had been honest when he told him that it probably wouldn't happen now, but their need for survival trumped his individual need to kill the Mizukage. It had been a bitter pill to swallow, but he had faith that Mei would succeed even without him personally being there, besides he owed it to the boys not to gamble on the chance that they could stay one step ahead of their enemies. Not with a certified psycho like Orochimaru after them. Naruto for his part had simple said that if Zabuza ever decided otherwise to just give the word and he would go with him to Kirigakure to kill Yagura. The lengths Naruto would go to keep a promise still surprised Zabuza even after years of traveling with him.
Deciding it was time to take a break, Zabuza told Naruto to slowly dispel the remaining clones having learned the hard way what happens when he received too much information too quickly. Once Naruto had dispelled the last clone he spotted Haku who was still having trouble creating a functional Ice Clone.
Going over to the dark-haired boy Naruto asked, "Still having trouble getting them to move, huh?"
Sighing and a bit peeved that this jutsu still remained just out of his grasp Haku said, "Yes, I just cannot find the right mixture of chakra to make this jutsu work. To be honest I'm thinking of shelving it for now."
'Well have you tried asking Zabuza about it?" Naruto questioned.
"No, I doubt Zabuza would be able to help with this due to it being related to my Hyouton abilities," Haku said.
"Well maybe I could help I am a clone expert you know," Naruto said cheekily.
"While I know you have mastered the Rock, Mud, Water, and Shadow clone jutsus, to be honest I fail to see how you could help since you would be unable to perform it," Haku stated.
"For one I might be able to help you dial into the right amount of chakra you need," Naruto said, "since all the clone jutsus I use have a wide range of chakra needs. You know the Water Clone Jutsu right, are you using more or less chakra then that?"
"More," Haku said.
"Really, then I think your problem is you are overloading the jutsu," Naruto stated matter of factly.
"What, how could that be? When I first began trying to create this jutsu they wouldn't even form at the normal bunshin level, but when I moved up to Water Clone they formed fine but wouldn't move." Haku wondered.
"Well when I asked Zabuza once why the Rock Clone Jutsu used less than the Water Clone he gave me a really long explanation that I didn't really understand. It was about the atoms that make up the material used for the clones. Basically the more solid the object the stronger the bonds are holding it together, so a solid requires less chakra then a liquid and if you were able to make a clone out a gas it would probably require even more then the liquid. The Old Man told me there is even a Lightning Clone Jutsu but he said the chakra drain for it was huge."
"Thank you Naruto," Haku said with renewed optimism that he hadn't been wasting time, "I'll start from the Water Clone again and begin working my way down. I'm sorry for doubting you."
Rubbing the back of his head and beaming with pride at his ability to both help and cheer up Haku, he said. "Don't mention it that is what friends do for one another right."
Zabuza came out of the cabin followed by the Hokage and Kakashi saying, "Alright, you two that's enough goofing off. "
To which Naruto said, "I wasn't goofing off I was helping Haku with his clone jutsu."
"Whatever brat," Zabuza said, "The Hokage wants a small demonstration of your and Haku's skills so he can better find a match for the both of you. You'll be fighting the Cyclops over hear one on one. So who wants to go first?"
Naturally Naruto ran up to them saying, "Me, I'll go. You don't mind right Haku."
Haku began to shake his head no, so Naruto said happily, "Alright. See I'm first, let's go."
"My, aren't full of spunk," Kakashi said with a chuckle as he moved to the center of the training area lazily.
Having already made it to his position Naruto said, "Less talking more fighting," and then assumed his unarmed fighting stance.
"Very well," the one eyed jounin said but kept one hand in his pocket.
Growling a little bit that the jounin wasn't taking him seriously, Naruto made the hand signs and said, "Wind Style: Air Bullet."
Kakashi lone eye widened in surprise at the speed the jutsu reached him, he managed to get out of the way easily enough but was amazed when the tree the jutsu hit had the bark blown off it as well as a good number of leaves.
Turning back to Naruto the jounin said, "Well, I guess I don't have to tell you to come at me with the intention to kill now do I."
Chuckling Zabuza said, "I guess I should have mentioned the brat hates it when you don't take him seriously. Maybe you should uncover that Sharingan of yours."
"Thanks for the advice, but I don't think we need to take this quite that seriously."
Shrugging Zabuza said, "Your funeral," then turning to Haku he added, "Haku, make an Ice Wall between us and them would you."
"Is that really necessary?" The Hokage asked.
"Let's just say not all of the brats jutsu are as preciously aimed as that one and I for one don't feel like dodging shrapnel," Zabuza said getting behind the clear ice wall Haku had just formed.
Naruto hadn't heard any of the conversation due to his having attacked as soon as Kakashi refocused on him. They were trading blows and while he was holding his own he knew it was only due to the jounin's holding back. After a flurry of blocked strikes they separated when Kakashi connected with a kick to Naruto's stomach.
"Hmm, not bad your ninjutsu and taijutsu are quite impressive but let's see how you handle this," the jounin thought while making a hand sign.
Naruto tensed when the jounin made a hand-sign but when nothing happened he figured that Kakashi changed his mind because the jounin quickly attacked afterwards. However, to the observers Naruto was defending himself against thin air.
Zabuza just groaned, "The Cyclops just had to use genjutsu didn't he."
"Is that a problem," the Hokage asked.
"Yeah, the brat is horrible at detecting and dispelling them. He generally has to use the more extreme method of breaking them," Zabuza answered.
As if to empathize his point Naruto pulled out a kunai and jammed it in his right hand. He was rewarded by having the real Kakashi fire several fireballs at him. Naruto quickly dodged them using the trees for cover. When he disappeared behind one the Hokage leaned forward in interest and when Naruto emerged back onto the field said, "An interesting tactic. But, what does replacing himself with a rock clone gain him?"
Zabuza just said, "You'll see."
Kakashi had missed Naruto switching himself with the Rock Clone due to his using the last few fireballs as a means to cover his own disappearing act. As the clone looked around the training field he couldn't find any sign of the one-eyed jounin so turning to the spectators said, "Where did he go?"
To answer Kakashi came running out of the brush behind him saying, "You shouldn't let your enemies get your back," his hands then assumed the tiger seal as he said, "Konohagakure's Most Secret and Sacred Technique: One Thousand Years of Death."
As his fingers rammed into the Naruto clone's rectum Kakashi thought, "Kami what kind of exercises does he do to get his butt this hard it felt like I slammed my fingers into solid rock." Then seeing the boy simply turn his head and look at him Kakashi said, "Don't tell me you like this kind of thing."
"I was just wondering if it's really okay for you to be around young boys if you're going to try and stick your fingers in their asses," the clone replied. It then began to expand as the chakra it contained prepared to explode.
Kakashi quickly replaced himself with a scarecrow version of himself that was blown all over the training field. After the explosion the Hokage eyed the ice wall and reached up to pull out a piece of rock that almost made it through and said, "I believe that is enough, thank you Naruto."
"Awww, but I was just getting into it, Old Man," said the whining voice of Naruto who reentered the training field.
"Well this was just a spar, let's not get to crazy. Plus, I still have to go against your friend," Kakashi whispered from behind him. Causing Naruto to jump away considering he hadn't even sensed him come up behind him.
Turning to Haku the silver-haired jounin said, "Well are you ready Haku?"
Haku looked nervous while he said, "You promise not to use that jutsu on me right," referring to the thousand years of death.
Chuckling Kakashi said, "Don't worry I promise to be gentle."
Sarutobi was returning to his office after watching Haku spar against Kakashi. He was thoroughly impressed with the strength that both boys had displayed. Now if only he could do his part and find them a third teammate. Unfortunately quality genin not already assigned to a team where apparently a rare breed. As he approached his receptionist he noticed her staring at the door to his office nervously.
Smiling at the woman he asked, "Is there a problem my dear?"
"Elder Danzou is here to see you, he is waiting in your office," she said obviously unnerved by the crippled elder.
Thanking her, Sarutobi walked up to his office door and paused giving himself a second to settle the emotions that churned around inside him then entered the office. Spotting his political rival sitting on a couch against the wall he said, "Danzou, what an unusual surprise. You don't often leave the comfort of your compound. To what can I contribute your desire to meet with me?"
"Sarutobi," Danzou said nodding his head. Sarutobi took a moment to marvel at the fact that in all the years of dealing with the man he still refused to call him Hokage. "I'm here to address a rumor I've heard…"
Holding up his hand Sarutobi said, "If this is about Zabuza, please I've already heard enough complaints on the matter and do not wish to discuss it further."
"Why would I care about that?" Danzou asked clearly throwing Sarutobi for a loop. Pressing on Danzou continued, "He is a strong warrior, and will no doubt add to Konoha's strength. As to the matter of his betrayal, Kirigakure has been a mess for over a decade now. It was only a matter of time before someone tried to take the reins of power from the Mizukage. That is what happens in the absence of strong leadership." Danzou paused a moment to savor the small dig at the Hokage and the guilt he undoubtedly felt about the Uchiha.
"No the rumor I wish to discuss is that you have sponsored a team of shinobi hopefuls for this year's Chunin Exam."
"Ah I see," Sarutobi said as he made his way to his desk while thinking, "I should have guessed, butter me up by agreeing with my unpopular decision with Zabuza and then attempt to find out more about Naruto and Haku."
"The rumor also says that you are having a hard time filling the last spot on the team."
"Can I take it then that you are here to help me with my problem?" Sarutobi asked.
"As a matter of fact I am," Danzou said with as close to a smile as Sarutobi had ever seen the man wear. It made his face look just slightly less stern. "You see I have been working with a group of children and one of them is ready for the exams. Unfortunately, his two teammates are not."
Seeing Sarutobi wasn't exactly jumping at the chance he added, "I can understand you being skeptical considering our history, however he is as good as I claim. If you are interested I can send his file to your office later."
Sarutobi was in somewhat of a bind. He had no doubt the boy was as skilled as Danzou claimed probably better, but that would give the warhawk a chance to at least learn why Sarutobi was so interested in seeing this team in the Chunin Exams. Of course, there was the chance the man knew already and just wanted someone close to observe Naruto's strength.
But gaining a pipeline to Danzou gave Sarutobi advantages too. So with that in mind he said, "That would be appreciated, however with your track record of success with the exams I'm sure he is as strong as you claim so please send him to my office tomorrow so I can introduce him to his future team."
"As you wish," and with a nod the Elder walked out of the office.
Konohamaru had to hand it to Kami with the way she would sometimes give you what you thought you wanted most in a way you must certainly didn't want it. At the moment he and his two friends Moegi and Udon were running for their lives from the pink haired agent of death that was chasing them.
They had been playing ninja like they usually did when he had accidently run into her. After years of people apologizing to him no matter how much of a brat he could be at times he tended to let it go to his head. Even if he secretly wished that they would treat him like everyone else and not as the honorable grandson. So after bumping into the girl he had mocked her large forehead as she walked away from him expecting her to let it go as people usually did, but instead her eyes had gone from jade to white as she had asked him with her back turned, "What did you say?"
Not quite realizing the danger he was in he said she probably possessed the largest forehead in the entire village. Well that apparently did it for her as the most violent wave of malice he had ever felt washed over him and her head seemed to turn around a hundred and eighty degrees like he had saw once in a scary movie he had snuck into. Well Konohamaru knew when it was time to run and that was it.
Looking behind him to see how close death was to snatching him away he missed seeing the boy right in front of him. Slamming into the boy he said, "Thank you mister, you have to help she's going to kill me."
Instead of helping though the boy grabbed Konohamaru by the shirt lifting him with one hand as the kid he ran into said, "You run into me and you can't even apologize. What a brat and I hate brats." Getting a look at the kid holding him in the air Konohamaru saw that he had on some kind of make-up and wearing what looked like a cat hood. He also had something wrapped in bandages on his back.
Konohamaru also noticed a girl in white standing a foot or two to the side of his assailant. The girl said, "Put him down Kankurou the last thing we need is for you to go starting trouble."
"Settle down Temari, nobody's going to care if I put one little brat in his place," Kankurou said giving Konohamaru a little shake.
"Fine, but I'm not getting involved if you know who gets upset," Temari said.
Sakura having caught up said, "Please put him down. I'm sorry our horseplay got out of hand."
"Why should I, the brat can't even apologize for running into me," Kankurou said lifting his other arm up as if to smack him.
"I'll never apologize to someone that goes around wearing as much make up as you," Konohamaru said.
"That's it, take this you little punk," Kankurou said while bring his arm forward to punch the boy.
Sakura tried to jump forward to stop him but she knew she wouldn't make it in time. Konohamaru resigning himself to getting smacked closed his eyes but after several seconds passed opened them when the hit never came. As he opened them he saw that a blonde haired boy had appeared and locked his arm with Kankurou's holding it in place.
Sakura wasn't sure what had happened one second she was watching as the make-up wearing boy was about to smack the boy who had insulted her, the next another blonde-haired boy appeared between the two unfamiliar shinobi with his back to her looking like he was throwing a punch in the opposite direction, having linked his arm with the other boy's.
When the boy looked over his shoulder, she saw that half of his face was covered in combat bandages and that he had some of the most beautiful blue eyes she had ever seen. When his eyes met hers she felt her heart speed up a little bit, breaking eye contact while having to fight down a small blush she noticed that the orange haired girl that was with Konohamaru also appeared smitten by the boy.
Turning his attention to Kankurou, Naruto having recognized the headbands the two wore said, "Not to be rude, but I don't think that a group of Suna-nin should go around beating up kids from a village they consider allies. Now do you?"
Temari who had jumped away from the boy after he arrived thought, "He shunshined in between us but I didn't even sense he was near until he had already stopped Kankurou's punch."
Naruto then added, "Besides I don't think your friend in the tree likes what you are up to."
Everyone turned their gazes to the tree to see Sasuke sitting there tossing a rock up and down. However seeing that everyone was looking at the wrong person said, "Not him," then with added emphasis nodded his head to who he really meant saying, "him."
Sasuke quickly looked behind him when a monotone voice said, "Kankurou you're an embarrassment to us, put him down."
Putting Konohamaru down, Kankurou said, "Sure thing Gaara, I was just messing around."
Naruto released his hold on Kankurou's arm and stepped back as soon as Konohamaru was freed. Gaara who was standing upside down on a tree branch behind Sasuke disappeared into sand and reappeared in the spot Naruto had vacated.
Addressing Naruto he said, "I'm sorry for any trouble my brother has caused you," while thinking, "This guy's good he managed to approach Kankurou and Temari without either of them noticing and he stopped Kankurou's punch like it was nothing."
Turning back to his siblings Gaara said, "Let's go."
Sakura's curiosity got the better of her though so she asked, "Hold on a second. What are Sand shinobi doing in the Leaf Village anyway?"
However it was the masked blonde boy who answered, "They are here for the Chunin Exams, I would imagine."
Turning back the youngest of the sand trio said, "That is correct. Will you be participating in the exams?"
"Yes."
"Good, I look forward to destroying you," the red head said evenly before they left. Both Kankurou and Temari were put on edge by that statement as they thought, "Oh no he's already found someone that excites him."
After they were gone Naruto turning to the tree said, "Is it just me or did he say he wanted to kill me the way most people say good-bye."
For a moment Sasuke thought the blonde boy was addressing him till another voice that was even closer than the last had been said, "Perhaps, it is just your reputation has proceeded you." Turning around again in surprise Sasuke saw a boy in a mask with red marks and dressed in a uniform that was vaguely familiar to him. The boy then jumped from the tree landing next to the blonde before saying, "I don't think that confronting sand ninja is what the Hokage had in mind when he said to keep a low profile."
"I couldn't just let that jerk in the make-up beat up on a little kid now could I?" Naruto replied. "Now let's go I'm starving."
"Wait," Sakura said then when both boys looked at her, she continued, "Um…I just wanted to say, thank you."
Konohamaru quickly added, "Yeah, thanks."
Naruto gave a thumbs up to the boy saying, "No problem, just be more careful about who you run into."
Konohamaru slyly looked over to Sakura as he thought, "Yeah tell me about it."
Turning away again hastily in hopes of making his exit due to his recognizing Sakura, Naruto thought, "What are the odds of running into Sakura so soon after coming back."
Sakura then called out, "Wait."
Naruto cringed a little sure that she may have recognized him despite his face being covered. Sakura then asked, "I was just wondering what the asterisks on the sides of the leaf symbol on your headbands mean."
Haku sensing Naruto's unease said, "We are not true Leaf Shinobi. We have been sponsored to participate in the Exam in hopes of proving ourselves worthy of joining the village."
Sakura nodded her head in understanding. Sasuke having observed everything dropped from the tree and addressing the blonde boy said, "What's your name."
However the blond just turned towards his partner and said, "Can we go now? I'm really hungry."
"Did you hear me? I asked what your name is."
Naruto was just going to ignore the ignorant boy but Haku hating rudeness said, "It is proper protocol to introduce yourself first before asking someone else his name."
"Sasuke Uchiha"
However the blonde just kept walking so Sasuke said, "What happened to proper protocol? Do you know who I am?"
Stopping and facing the Uchiha, Naruto said, "Of course I do you just told me. What kind of stupid question is that?"
Haku smiling underneath his mask said, "I think he means, he is someone of importance in the village."
"Really I've never heard of him," Naruto replied, "Have you?"
Before Haku could reply Sasuke said, "I'm the last Uchiha."
Squinting his eyes and tilting his head, in a manner Sakura found vaguely familiar but couldn't place, the blond boy said, "And that makes you special how?"
Before Sasuke could explode Sakura stepped forward and said, "I'm Sakura Haruno. Could you please tell us your name?"
Sighing a little, Naruto said pointing to himself, "I'm Ronin," then pointing to Haku continued, "and this is my friend Haku. Now if you'll excuse us…" at that point his stomach growled,"…I really need to eat."
As Ronin and Haku left Sakura turned towards where Sasuke had been standing hoping he may accept a date from her, but found that she had been left all alone. Even Konohamaru and his two young friends had taken off. Feeling a little depressed Sakura decided to head home not sure what it was about the blonde boy that made her thoughts keep turning towards him.
Zabuza had gotten the boys up at dawn the next morning like he had every morning since their arrival in Konoha. According to the Hokage he had six days to wipe them into shape and while he felt that they would easily coast through the exams it never hurt to be over prepared. He had them run through every drill he could think of that Konoha may test them on. He had asked what the tests would be, but the Hokage had simply told him they varied based on the proctor's choice and that sensei weren't allowed to know so they couldn't prepare their students for it. However the third round of the exams was always a one on one tournament style battle between those who made it to the last round.
Right now they were taking a break; the Hokage had sent a messenger bird telling Zabuza that he would be bringing the person he had selected for the team. Twenty minutes later the Hokage came walking up to them with a pale boy with raven black hair. The boy skin looked like it had never seen the sun. He was wearing a black half shirt and black pants. Also strapped to his back was a tanto and a small backpack.
Smiling as he reached them the Hokage said, "Gentlemen allow me to introduce the third member of your team Sai."
Sai held up a hand saying, "Hello, I'll try and be a benefit to the team."
Naruto and Haku both greeted the boy. Sarutobi then got Zabuza's attention and motioned him to follow him. When they were far enough away from the chatting boys the Hokage said, "There is a meeting tonight at six o'clock at the Hokage Tower that is where you will officially nominate the boys." Receiving a nod from Zabuza he added, "Also, keep an eye on Sai. He is an associate of a man I do not trust who has an interest in Naruto."
Zabuza just grunted and said, "What kind of squirrelly Leaf logic is that. What if he tries to throw the exam so Naruto and Haku fail?"
Shaking his head Sarutobi said, "It isn't quite that simple, while I'm sponsoring Naruto and Haku it is Danzou who is sponsoring Sai. That means Danzou's reputation is on the line as well and if the person he sponsored is responsible for the team's quick exit then it will reflect poorly on him. What I mean when I say watch him is just be aware that he will be reporting to Danzou."
"Fine, I don't like it though," Zabuza said with a grunt of annoyance.
"I understand, but there is a lack of quality genin not already associated with a team. I didn't really have a choice." Zabuza just responded with a head nod so Sarutobi said, "Very well, I'll leave it to you to turn them into a team."
Looking at the three boys he added, "It also appears you'll have your work cut out for you."
Following the Hokage line of sight Zabuza saw that Haku was currently holding Naruto back from pummeling a grinning Sai. Sighing he said, "Don't worry I'll pound them into shape," then leaving the Hokage alone he began to do just that.
Sarutobi watched as Zabuza approached the bickering boys then grabbing Sai and Naruto by their hair and slammed their heads together. It was risky he knew, but Sarutobi believed between Naruto, Haku, and Zabuza they would reshape Sai from a tool of Danzou into at the very least a normal leaf shinobi, after all if there was one thing that Danzou never understood it was that bonds of friendship were stronger than any type of conditioning he could put his agents through. Turning away from the group he began to return to the Hokage's Tower sure that Zabuza would have them ready in time.
At the appointed time the jounin-sensei had gathered for the meeting although Zabuza had yet to show. Sarutobi felt a small amount of panic at that, wondering if Zabuza was backing out of their deal. He knew that the man had a penchant for betrayal but he had been sure that the swordsmen didn't give his word lightly. Deciding that he had delayed enough he said, "I hereby call this meeting to order."
All those present immediately went silent. The Hokage waited a few seconds longer before saying, "First let us hear from the Jounin-sensei of the rookie teams."
Kurenai was the first to step forward saying, "I, Kurenai Yuuhi, nominate Team Eight's Hinata Hyuuga, Shino Aburame, and Ami Fu."
A low murmur began to spread throughout the room considering that it had been over five years since a rookie team had been nominated. The murmur only grew louder when Asuma stepped forward and also nominated his team.
Kakashi was last as he said, "Well it appears this year's rookies must be something incredible because I, Kakashi Hatake, also nominate the members of Squad Seven: Kiba Inuzuka, Sakura Haruno, and Sasuke Uchiha."
The room quickly exploded with whispers at that so much so the Hokage had to call order. After everyone settled down the Hokage went through the rest of the Jounin-sensei. Maito Gai nominated his team as did a few others that the Hokage had expected. He was about to end the meeting and dispatch his Anbu to hunt down Zabuza when the door was slammed open. Standing in the doorway was an obvious irate Zabuza. Many of the jounin that haven't heard the rumor of the swordsmen quickly went for their weapons. However the Hokage calmed them by saying, "You are late Zabuza."
Growling Zabuza replied, as he made his way through the crowd of shocked jounin, "I've been looking for the room for the past twenty minutes would it of killed you to put up a sign or something."
"Sorry about the oversight," Sarutobi said.
"Yeah, Yeah," Zabuza said before adding, "I Zabuza Momochi do hereby nominate sponsored-nin Ronin, Haku, and the pale faced pain in the ass who's name escapes me at the moment."
"Sai," Sarutobi supplied.
"Right him."
"Very well, then this meeting is adjourned. You may notify your teams of your decisions tomorrow."
Training Field three was where Team Eight usually met for morning training before grabbing a mission. Kurenai had arrived to find Hinata and Shino waiting for her with no sign of Ami. This didn't surprise the jounin to much as Ami's attitude had only been getting worse not better. As near as Kurenai could figure it the problem stemmed from her hatred of Hinata. She knew that Ami way of dealing with other girls was to bully them into submission; however Hinata refused to be intimidated by the girl which only enraged her further. Kurenai prayed she wasn't making a mistake by entering her team in the Chunin Exams but it was too late now for second guessing so she would just have to deal with the fallout of her decision when the time came.
Seeing the genin in question arriving Kurenai said, "Nice of you to join us Ami."
"Whatever, can we just get on with the time wasting crap you've been having us do," Ami said her usual ill-tempered self.
"You should speak to Kurenai-sensei with respect Ami," Hinata gently rebuked.
"I didn't ask for your opinion bitch," Ami snapped, "So how about you shut the hell up."
"That's enough Ami," Kurenai said sternly. Sighing she continued, "There will be no missions or training today. I wanted to inform you that I've nominated you for the Chunin Exams." Producing three entrance forms she said, "If you decide to participate then fill out this form and turn it in to room 301 at the end of the week by three p.m." Once she handed the forms to each of her charges she disappeared in a cloud of smoke.
Ami simply smirked as she said, "Finally, once I ace this exam and become a chunin I won't have to work with you clowns anymore."
Looking up from her own form Hinata said sweetly, "I believe that is an outcome everyone can be happy with, so I wish you the best of luck." She then turned and began to walk home Shino following behind her.
After several blocks of silence Hinata noticed that Shino appeared to be lost in thought so she asked, "Is something troubling you Shino?"
Shino didn't answer right away and after a few moments Hinata thought maybe he didn't hear her, she was just about to ask again when he said, "I do not believe Kurenai-sensei thinks we will successful complete the exams."
"I agree," Hinata said, "While we were waiting on Ami, sensei appeared conflicted about something. Now we know what it was, she also doubted her decision even more when Ami showed up in a bad mood."
"I see, you read her body language then, your clan is quite accomplished in that ability."
"Yes though I'm not nearly as proficient as some in that area," Hinata said thinking of her cousin, "but even a blind person would struggle not to see how conflicted Kurenai-sensei is about her choice."
"The question that needs to be asked in that case is, why nominate us then?" Shino said.
"I think Kurenai-sensei hopes that this exam will help bridge the animosity between Ami and me," Hinata reasoned.
"I doubt a simple test will be capable of such a momentous achievement," Shino said a tinge of doubt in his even keel voice.
Looking at Shino pointedly Hinata said, "That just means these Chunin Exams will be anything but simple."
Team Ten was being put through their paces, Asuma wanted to get one more good training session in before giving them the rest of the week off to make their decision. In truth the Wave mission had probably been the best thing for his team seeing how his students had redoubled their efforts. Even the slacker Shikamaru put at least some effort in before eventually succumbing to his natural laziness. Seeing said slacker beginning to lay down he decided to call them in.
Once they had gathered around he said, "Alright guys good job. Today we won't be taking any missions," he ignored the muttered 'Thank Kami' from Shikamaru as he continued, "Instead, you'll have the rest of the week off to decided whether or not to participate in the Chunin Exams seeing as I've nominated you."
He took stock in each of his team's emotions at this revelation from Ino's giddiness, to Chouji eating his ever present bag of chips a little faster in nervousness, and Shikamaru's calm indifference. He then gave them the forms and instructions on when to meet for the exams. Of the three he knew that Shikamaru was already at least a chunin level intellect. The only question was, whether or not it would be to troublesome for him to get out of bed the morning of the Chunin Exams to actually participate in them.
Team Seven was in its usually waiting spot. It was almost eleven-thirty and like usual there was no sign of Kakashi-sensei. Sasuke was leaning against the rail of the bridge while Kiba was throwing a ball that Akamaru would run after in their morning game of fetch. Sakura was just watching Kiba and Akamaru play while thinking about the day before. She had tried to talk to Sasuke about it this morning but had simply received his normal morning scoff. She laughed weakly to herself that it was probably the first morning since becoming a team that she hadn't tried to talk to him with the attention of asking him out.
What was bothering her was whether or not Kakashi-sensei would nominate them. She figured it was a possibility after all her team had not only the runner up for Rookie of the Year, but Kiba had improved by leaps and bounds under Kakashi's guidance. So where did that leave her a rather plain kunoichi without a clan to back her up. Kakashi had once remarked that she may have a talent for genjutsu but then promptly let her fall to the wayside as he focused his time on training on Kiba and Sasuke. Outside of the team training sessions he didn't really go out of his way to include her.
Now crouched down and looking at her toes she had to admit it wasn't really all Kakashi's fault she was so pathetic. She had never demanded that he train her, the way Sasuke or Kiba would. Also, when the joint training sessions would end she would be relieved instead of trying to push herself harder like the others. After the mission with Team Eight she had tried to put a little more effort into her training and it did seem Kakashi had responded in kind only for her to quickly become focused once more on attaining Sasuke's heart.
A poof of smoke announced the arrival of Kakashi as he appeared on the arch of the bridge and said, "Sorry I'm late guys. I had to stop and help a little lost kitten out of a tree and find its poor distraught owner, who insisted on cooking me a home-cooked meal as a reward and wouldn't take no for an answer."
Instead of receiving the usual shout of liar from Sakura he was greeted by silence as each of his students ignored him. A little disappointed by the lack of response considering he thought it was one of his better made up excuses, although to be honest he was still impartial to his 'Got lost on the road of life' one.
Dropping down to the ground his team final paid him some attention as he said pulling out the forms for the Chunin Exams, "All I really have for you guys today is to let you know that I've nominated you for the Chunin Exams."
Giving the forms to the three he wasn't surprised to see the look of excitement on Sasuke and Kiba's faces. Nor was he shocked that Sakura looked scared and unsure of herself. He knew some would see it as cruel but the reason he pushed her off to the side was to get her to put more effort into her training. If she ever asked him why he would tell her it was because the only thing she would ever get out of training was what she put into it. It wasn't his job to force her to put forth an effort but hers, until then he would concentrate on those who wanted to learn. He hoped the Chunin Exams would help her to see that. If she even entered and judging by her face it was a real possibility that she wouldn't, but that was just one of the many little tests that her and her team would face before they even entered room 301 at the end of the week.
Once the forms were passed out and he answered their questions he disappeared into smoke. Leaving the three alone with their thoughts, it was a given that Sasuke and Kiba would enter. Sakura had wanted to talk to one of them, well honestly to Kiba since she doubted Sasuke would say anything to her, but the Inuzuka had been so excited about being nominated he had run off to tell his mom. Sasuke had left to probably get in some lunch before training some on his own.
That left Sakura by herself as she began to walk lost in thought. After walking for awhile she was assaulted by a bunch of aromas letting her know she was near a restaurant. As she looked at the small ramen stand wondering whether or not to stop for a bite to eat she was caught by surprise when the flap opened to reveal the Ronin boy from the day before.
Naruto had been in a foul mood before lunch, but ramen was truly good for the soul and had brightened his outlook somewhat. Zabuza had given them an hour break to get some lunch before they would be right back at it again. Sai was a true pain in the ass as far as Naruto was concerned. Almost from the get go, the boy had been rude and seemed to be trying to agitated him. Not to mention that Zabuza's way of dealing with the problem was to have a meeting of the minds so to speak as he would slam their heads together. On top of that Haku trying to play peacemaker had suggested they go to the hot springs to relax and unwind after a hard day of training. No sooner had he sunk into the water and begun to relax when Sai had opened his mouth thereby ruining any chance of his enjoying the hot spring by calling him dickless. A name, that he had called him all day today.
He had asked Zabuza to step in and make Sai stop but he had told Naruto to handle it himself. Unfortunately the only way Naruto had come up with thus far involved making a corpse disappear. Naruto was pretty sure that the Hokage would be upset should he put that plan in motion, although the idea of making the Hokage angry was getting easier and easier to live with.
Luckily for Sai the ramen calmed him down. But even that had raised a slight problem for him as he may have to stop coming for a while since he suspected Ayame and Teuchi were beginning to suspect him. Especially after eating fifteen bowls and having visited every day since his return. He guessed he shouldn't be surprised considering the pair had problem seen him almost once a day since he had been four years old until he left the village at age six. Plus, while there might be a lot of blonde haired blue eyed kids in the world he doubted there were many with his capacity to consume of ramen. Leaving the stand he watched as Ayame bit her bottom lip fighting her desire to pry with her acceptance that the customer had a right to privacy. He would have to apologize for deceiving her after he could tell everyone who he was; hopefully the young women wouldn't be to cross with him.
Stepping out into the sunshine he spotted Sakura standing there looking at him. Fighting back a curse at once more running into one of the people he wanted to talk to but wasn't really aloud to he tried to turn the other way only for her to say, "Wait please."
Trying to decide whether or not to make a break for it he decided against it since he didn't want to hurt her feelings, particularly because she had sounded somewhat vulnerable when she had called out. So turning towards her he said, "Can I help you with something?"
Unsure as to why she called out to a stranger, but needing someone to talk to Sakura said, "Would you mind if I talk with you a bit?"
"Sure, but can we do it while walking I need to work off some of this ramen and need to head back to the training fields."
So as they began to walk back towards the training fields Naruto asked, "Um, what was it you wanted to talk about?"
"You said you're here for the Chunin Exams," Sakura said a little nervously, "I was just wondering how you know you're ready for them."
"I don't," he replied when he saw the confusion on her face he added, "We can't ever really be ready for anything in this profession. All we can do is prepare as best we can and hope everything turns out as we planned. I mean I like to think I'm pretty strong and will do okay, but who knows how strong the other competitors will be. That's why my sensei is training us so hard."
"Really my sensei gave us the week off to decide whether or not to take the test," Sakura said and then bitterly added, "Even though he hasn't really taught me much so far."
Naruto glanced at Sakura and asked, "Then why haven't you demanded he train you?"
Sakura turned to the mask blonde saying, "I do it's just, I think he feels I'm weak and in the way."
"I don't think you really do," Naruto said, "I think you expect him to come to you and teach and if that's the case you'll be waiting a long time."
Her anger rising she said, "You don't know me."
"Your right, I suppose," Naruto said holding up his hand, "But you said he gave you the week off to decide didn't you." Seeing her calm and nod her head a little he asked, "How do you plan to use that time?"
"I told you to decide if I'm going to take the exams," she replied.
"That's my point," Naruto said, "Your sensei gave you the week off but all you plan to do is think about your decision. What about training to get stronger, it isn't only about what your sensei is willing to teach you but the effort you put into learning that matters."
Looking away from the boy's blue eyes she said, "You must think I'm pretty pathetic, huh?"
Shaking his head enthusiastically no he said, "No, I think you just need to decide whether or not being a ninja is really what you want. I think you had some romanticized version of what being a shinobi is and the real thing hasn't matched your expectations, believe me I know how that is. But you need to decide what it is you really want and to then dedicate everything you have to achieving it. Maybe the Chunin Exams will help you decide to continue or maybe they'll cause you to quit but none of that matters. What does is that in the end you decide to pursue what it is you feel is important to you."
"What's important to you," she asked.
"Getting stronger so I can protect everybody," Naruto said.
"You mean everybody important to you right?" Sakura wondered.
"Shaking his head no he answered," No I mean everybody that would need my help," he then gave her a smile and although she couldn't see it she knew it was there as his eyes lit up. He had wanted to say to become Hokage but he figured when it came down to it that was what a Hokage did he protected everyone.
Sakura saw they were approaching the training grounds and although she wasn't any nearer an answer she did feel better. Turning to leave she said, "Thank you Ronin. Maybe I'll see you in the exams."
"I hope, I helped you a little," he said sincerely.
"I think I have more questions now then when I stared," she said and gave a little laugh as he saw what she assumed was a small pout, "But thanks to you I at least know they are there now and can search for the answers to them. I'll see you around."
She then turned and ran back the direction they came. He had been right much like during the mission with Team Eight she had relied on others to help her. Maybe that was why Kakashi-sensei hadn't really given her as much attention as Sasuke and Kiba because unlike the boys she hadn't put forth an effort to learn more than the basics he had showed her. It was time she took the incentive for a change and she figured the best place to start would be the Chunin Exams.
Sai was at the apartment Root had provided for him upon taking the mission to observe Naruto. He was currently studying several books on human interaction. He was doing this because, he appeared to be missing some important concepts the books must have assumed he would already possess, as his disastrous attempt to give Naruto a nickname proved. His mission was two-fold first pass the chunin exams with a high enough recommendation that he would be allowed to join the Leaf Village as a active shinobi. The second was proving to be far more difficult, which was to gain the jinchuriki's trust so he could more closely observe it. But at this point he didn't think the boy liked him very much hopefully the answer to what he was doing wrong was somewhere in these books.
Sensing a presence behind him he quickly rolled over his studying table and pulled a kunai he had hidden on his person facing his possible attacker. However, his eyes widened in surprise before he dropped the kunai and bowed before Danzou who was flanked by two of his best Root operatives.
"Not bad, "said the crippled leader, "we where only here several moments before you sensed us. Now report."
"Yes sir," Sai said, "Zabuza has us working on teamwork at the moment. Having sparred against the jinchuriki, I have to say he is quite skilled in taijutsu and ninjutsu but apparently has no talent in genjutsu."
"That could have its uses," Danzou said before motioning for Sai to continue.
"But I do not think he has mastered the fox to any degree or if he has he hasn't revealed any such ability."
"That isn't surprising, I don't doubt Sarutobi told them to be cautious around you," Danzou said. Then noticing the material in the books Sai had been reading he asked, "What is this?"
"Prior to the mission I checked out some books to better connect with the jinchuriki," Sai answered, "Unfortunately. I seem to be failing in that endeavor and was hoping one of these books would enlighten me."
"If you feel that is the best way to find out about the jinchuriki, then you may proceed," Danzou said, "However remember your primary concern is to observe the jinchuriki not make friends with it."
"Of course, sir"
"Good, then I'll take my leave," Danzou said and then left as silently as he entered with his two bodyguards.
On the rooftops observing Sai's apartment, Ibiki watched as Danzou left, "So the big fish came to talk to the little one."
The Anbu black ops member in the cat mask next to him said, "He could just be checking on the boy. He is sponsoring him."
"You never struck me as the naive type Cat," Ibiki said in a slightly less serious tone.
"I'm just playing devil's advocate; we can't assume Danzou is going to use this boy for something sinister. He has to know we are watching him," The cat masked women with purple hair said.
"What do you think Shibi?" Ibiki asked turning to the third member of his group.
"I must agree with Cat," The Aburame's clan head said, "it would be to obvious if this Sai moved against the boys the Hokage sponsored."
"Did you at least mark the Anbu with Danzou?" Ibiki asked referring to the Kikaichu beetles he had Shibi disperse throughout the apartment.
"Yes, but I don't think they'll be of much use. Danzou will undoubtedly have the men checked just to be sure before they can lead us to anything useful," Shibi replied.
"Call them back then, the last thing we want is for Danzou to become aware of our little group looking into him," Ibiki ordered. "What we need is a means of tracking them that doesn't require constant contact or that can be easily spotted."
"That may be possible if we could breed a Kikaichu beetle with a keen sense of smell that doesn't require a female be planted on the target first," Shibi speculated.
"Can it be done?" Ibiki wondered. "If we could track the Anbu that move through Danzou's compound by their scent alone it would be a huge step in the right direction."
"I will have to do some research but it may be possible, nevertheless it will take time," Shibi warned.
"Time isn't the issue here, whatever Danzou is planning he has been at it for years," Ibiki said. "The issue is when he makes his move will we be in a position to stop him."
"What does that have to do with the boys the Hokage sponsored though?" Cat asked.
Shaking his head Ibiki replied, "I don't know, but I'm certain the Hokage believes that whatever Danzou is planning concerns one of them. Shibi get started on your research, meanwhile I have an exam to prepare for."