Birth of an Assassin: Heir to the Namikaze
Chapter 9
The Next Step
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Assassin's Creed or Naruto.
"Speaking"
'Thinking'
"Jutsu"
"Tailed Beast Speak"
Pairing: NaruxSaku
Assassin!Naruto
Welcome everyone to another chapter of Namikaze Assassin! We have gone from Kusagakure, to Wave, and now back at home for the start of the Chunin Exams. I hope everyone is excited as I am because this arc of Naruto is full of action and fun, including the fact I can introduce a plethora of new characters as well as show how current characters are changing.
Remember that Sakura promised to step up her progress in assassin training when they returned, and since its been a good month or so since Wave, I think we can safely say she has progressed some. Because the Chunin Exams welcome all countries allied or neutral with Konoha, we can see ninja from Suna, Kusa, Ame, and many others.
And I have one last twist that will be revealed this chapter, it goes out to my fans of Sand Maiden. Sorry that story can't be here, but this might make it up a little.
000
Konohagakure
"Come on Naruto, you have to catch me!"
"Sakura! This wasn't what I had in mind for today's training-" Naruto was cut short as he narrowly dodged a rooftop clothesline and swung from a flag banner of some store in hopes to catch up with Sakura.
When he had taken her out training for some light running, he had no idea she would turn it into a parkour race. Sakura was already two buildings ahead of him when she hastily ordered him to catch her, and so the chase ensued.
Since Naruto wore his equipment on him at all times, he was significantly slower than Sakura who only wore the training robes that offered high mobility. Nonetheless, he wasn't about to be defeated by his student and picked up the pace. She was leaping over rooftops, along walls, swinging from bars, and jumping over obstacles in her way that made Naruto proud of what she had accomplished in such a short time.
'Reminds me of when dad taught me..only this time I can do it with a girl I like. At least Sakura is enjoying herself.'
All the while during her run, Sakura was laughing and smiling as she ran to get away from her pursuer. In a way, it felt like her training was taking shape around her; before, she would never think she could move this fast or jump that high. The limitations that once kept her from pursuing her ninja dreams escaped her as she ran in the hot summer air, shielded from the bright rays by her robe's gray hood.
Her training with Naruto had been fruitful to say the least, as soon as they arrived back from the Wave mission they began her training. She would come to his compound everyday to read from the immense assassin archives, learning both history and and herbal alchemy from the tomes of knowledge. In the afternoons, Naruto would spar with her and teach her how to use various tools like the hidden blade or throwing knife.
And in the evenings, Naruto would rest with her inside of his home's family room. Occasionally they would play a game of shogi or just talk. That's what Sakura loved the most, just staying close to Naruto. It didn't matter if they were training, walking down the street, or falling asleep next to one another; she only wanted him close to her.
"Hurry up!" She called to him, not even looking back to see him steadily catching up.
As she ran out of rooftops upon reaching the streets leading up to the village's West gate, Sakura hesitated only for a moment. That gave Naruto enough time to catch up and tackle her, forcing them both into a fall toward the ground. Within a moment, Naruto was holding Sakura like a princess and landed on the ground with a soft step.
"Baka! We could have fallen." Sakura berated him as he let her go.
"I thought I'd give you a little scare..I had it under control." He crossed his arms and stuck his tongue out in defiance, serving only to annoy the pink haired girl more.
"Hmph. I still won.." She said, taking off her hood and letting her long hair flow.
Sakura wiped some sweat from her brow and looked at Naruto in amazement. How was he not dying in those heavy robes?
"I don't know how you wear something like this all day Naruto-kun. I'm sweating so much.." Naruto made a face as if he didn't understand and shrugged.
"I guess you just get used to it, I feel fine." That statement didn't make Sakura feel any better but she let him have his opinion.
Naruto looked along the street they were on, it was deserted save for them. On either side of them was a wooden plank fence that rose above their heads, with trees on either side. If they kept walking and made a few turns, the gate would be in their view. Their plan was only for some free run training today and Naruto figured Sakura would think of something else to do.
"Well, now that your training is over with, you can do whatever Sakura. I think I will head back to the compound and find a book to read or something." She sweat dropped as he began to walk off.
'What is with this guy sometimes..you'd figure he would want to hang out with a girl he obviously likes!'
'Well don't let him get away girl, go get his ass and take him out!' Inner Sakura cheered, hoping for a hands on approach.
"Naruto! Don't you want to hang out with me some more? Its still the middle of the day, too early to go home and read!" She shouted after him as he was walking away, making him turn around.
"Well..what do you want to do?" He asked, shrugging.
Sakura thought about it for a moment before snapping her fingers.
"Let's go out together and get some food!" Naruto flinched, he didn't expect Sakura to want to go out with him.
Sure they had been getting along well and the training was great, but Naruto didn't know if she liked him that way or not. Maybe this was the sign he was waiting for, but wait, had he been waiting for this?
"Quit being an idiot and just go. You know you like the vixen, there is no denying that." Kyuubi added in as he sensed the boy's pointless hesitation.
'Yeah..you're right Kyuubi.'
"O-okay Sakura-chan." Naruto walked back to join her and smiled when she smiled big and blushed.
'Hook. Line. And sinker!' Her Inner Self cheered, her first date with Naruto!
Just as she was reaching for his hand to take, he suddenly took off past her after getting a look in his eye. She turned around to see him cut through what looked to be like the wooden fence, only it wasn't but a piece of paper used as a disguise. They both looked to see three young academy students topple onto the ground in front of Naruto who was slightly embarrassed that he overreacted.
'I thought they would be a little more..threatening.'
"Naruto.." He looked to his side and saw Sakura standing with him, looking at the three kids. "Who are these guys?"
"I don't know..I just saw them trying to hide and thought they were up to something. Seeing them like this, it looks like they aren't much of a threat at all." Sakura giggled and patted what looked to be the leader on the head, making him look up at them and cringe.
"Hey lady, hands off! I'm not a dog okay!" She recoiled as the scarfed youngster stood up and took in her and Naruto with an evaluating eye.
His two friends crowded behind him, a bit afraid of Naruto's presence. Sakura noticed that even the leader seemed to be a bit afraid as he shook once in a while, making her giggle to herself.
"You!" The boy pointed at Naruto who only looked on in slight annoyance. "Teach me how to be like you! I saw you jumping on the roofs with this girl, show me how!"
Naruto and Sakura looked at one another and sweat dropped, this kid couldn't be serious.
"What?" Naruto asked, not understanding.
The little boy growled and jabbed a thumb into his chest, puffing it out in pride.
"I am the grandson of the Third Hokage, Konohamaru Sarutobi! I'm gonna be the greatest ninja one day, and I need to have all the best skills. It looked really cool what you guys were doing, so I want you to show me!"
Naruto sighed and Sakura didn't know what to think. Sure he had a great ambition but he was still just an academy student, he was in no shape to learn Naruto's free run; even Sakura still hadn't learned everything.
"No." The blonde said flatly and turned in the other direction, silently ushering Sakura to follow.
The girl looked at the shocked children and then back at Naruto before running to catch up with him. His stance seemed to show he was annoyed as he took heavy steps instead of his usual light and fluid motions.
"Naruto-kun, I think you were a little harsh on him. He was just admiring your skill.." Naruto looked at her and saw that she was trying to guilt trip him into apologizing.
"Sorry Sakura, I guess just something about the way he said it aggravated me." She sighed.
"He's just a kid Naruto, being the grandson of the Hokage means he is probably spoiled. He just doesn't know any better." Sakura didn't want Naruto to get so worked up over one little boy as she tried to calm him.
"Yeah I guess so-"
"Charge!" Naruto turned around and was tackled by Konohamaru who tried to take off his hood.
Sakura was joined by Konohamaru's two friends as they watched the comical display of Naruto attempting to throw Konohamaru off of him while the boy hung onto the robes for dear life. Finally, with enough strength he was able to pry the boy off of him and sent him flying back a few feet. Konohamaru tumbled and quickly got back to his feet, dusting himself off.
"Just what I would expect from my new rival, being able to repel my attack. Now teach me how!" Naruto sighed and just kept walking.
"I said no, even if I wanted to teach you, you are too young. Finish your academy training, then maybe I'll consider it." This seemed like a victory for Konohamaru as he jumped for joy and rejoined his comrades while Sakura walked over to him.
Even though he still didn't say yes to the boy, he was nice about it. Naruto blushed as Sakura just gave him an approving smile, embarrassed that he fell into her trap.
"That was nice of you Naru-kun." She prodded with his nickname.
"It was..nothing."
They proceeded on and were on their way down the street when they heard Konohamaru yell out.
"Let me go, you big bully!" Naruto and Sakura turned around and doubled back to where they last saw the kids, wondering what was going on.
They turned a corner and saw what was the problem, Konohamaru was being held up by his shirt by some guy dressed in black. His two friends cowered at a distance, asking the older boy to let him go. Naruto's eyes went straight to their headband and saw they were Suna ninja, odd that they would be here.
'Perhaps it has something to do with the Chunin Exams father spoke of, I guess its time for them to begin.'
"Put me down!"
"Make me, ya runt! This is what you get for running into me.." Kankuro held him up higher and smirked in satisfaction as the boy grunted in pain.
His female partner just sighed and crossed her arms, annoyed by her brother's immaturity. Messing with a Leaf kid was the last thing they needed to do upon arriving in Konoha.
"Kankuro, you're gonna regret this..let's go." He spared a glance in her direction before answering with a certain amount of haughtiness.
"Maybe Temari, but I can't just let him get away with running into me."
Naruto had heard enough and motioned to Sakura he was going to move. She nodded and prepared herself, grabbing a kunai from her thigh pouch.
With a flash step, Naruto was behind Kankuro and twisted his free arm behind his back. This made the Suna-nin cry out in pain and drop Konohamaru who was quickly picked up by Sakura and returned to his friends.
"Stay here!" She shouted and returned to where Naruto had slammed Kankuro against the fence.
Temari had no idea who was attacking her brother but she could tell he wasn't a push over. She went to grab her fan but stopped midway when a kunai was at her throat. Tilting her head, she saw a hooded Sakura glaring at her from behind, tightening her grip on the kunai.
"Do not interfere." The blonde started to weigh her options as Kankuro cried out in pain as Naruto almost popped his arm out of its socket.
"I suggest you learn some respect when you enter someone else's village. Understand?" Kankuro growled in anger despite his predicament and tried to look Naruto in the eye.
"I'm gonna make you regret that..Crow!" Naruto's eyes caught the chakra strings headed to the pack the boy had on and realized he was a puppet user, common of Suna.
Naruto kept on hand on the boy's arm while the other whipped out his hidden blade and held it close to Kankuro's neck. The puppet emerged from its wrappings and opened its mouth wide, showing a cannon aimed at Naruto's head. The Suna-nin smirked until he looked down and saw another Naruto, crouching at his feet with his hidden blade ready to strike his stomach, a lethal spot.
"Choose your next action wisely, Suna." The blonde whispered in a lightly veiled threat, making Kankuro begin to sweat.
Temari's eyes widened at the speed at which the boy created the clone, it didn't even appear as if he made any hand signs. Her brother was in trouble, but the other Leaf ninja wouldn't let her get involved. She would have to do something drastic to help Kankuro.
"Damn..it!" Kankuro felt Naruto put more pressure on his arm and was about to say he surrendered when a very soft, very chilling voice called to him.
"Kankuro..I knew I would find you causing trouble." Naruto and the rest looked up at the tree together to see a young girl with long red hair and darkly outlined eyes looking down at them with hidden contempt.
"G-gaara..I-" The girl scowled and he shut up instantly.
"Quiet! Or else I'll kill you."
"You are a disgrace to our village, remember why we came to Konoha in the first place?" Kankuro's eyes lit up in fear and he couldn't manage a response.
Naruto let go of Kankuro and backed off toward the kids who were still there, watching the battle unfold. Sakura quickly rejoined him and watched as Gaara turned her eyes toward them, sending a chill down their spines.
"Excuse them." Gaara's eyes locked with Naruto's.
'She has this presence about her, something dark.'
'He was able to disarm Kankuro so easily, almost to the point of begging for mercy. This one is strong.'
Naruto watched as she disappeared in a few tendrils of sand, reappearing in front of the other two Suna ninjas as the sand reached ground. He observed that the sand emanated from her gourd at very high speeds and realized she had the power to manipulate it.
'That gourd must be full of sand..and I have to wonder if she could use it for offense as well?'
Gaara turned to Temari and Kankuro who instinctively flinched. The red head shrugged and said in her usual soft voice.
"Let's go, we didn't come here to mess around." They hastily nodded and began to follow her as she walked off in the opposite direction.
"Of course Gaara."
"We know Gaara."
Sakura watched as they walked off, having a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach.
'Even her own team-mates were afraid of her..I wonder what makes her so dangerous?'
"Kid, that girl..there is a reason why you felt so uneasy around her. Maybe you were picking up on it there for a little bit." Naruto listened as Kyuubi chimed in, his uncommon serious voice taking the place of sarcasm.
'You don't mean that..'
"Yes, she too contains a tailed beast within her. Although I loathe using the word, it is my brother, Shukaku. The One-Tail beast of Suna..it seems they finally found a jinchuuriki to control him. That girl..must have a very strong bloodlust to be able to survive with him inside." Naruto swallowed, it looked like she could be a tough opponent if worse came to worse.
"Naruto-kun, why are there Suna-nin here?" He woke up from his stupor and looked at Sakura who once again had her hood off, looking at him with worry.
"It must be the Chunin Exams, ninja from other villages are coming to get tested. We can expect more to arrive in the next few days I guess." She nodded, having heard a few things about it from idle conversations she picked up.
'Apparently its a series of tests designed to see if we are ready to become Chunin, mid-level ninja. I wonder if Kakashi-sensei will tell us about it soon?'
"Come on Sakura, you wanted lunch?" Naruto indicated she follow and soon they were walking together back into town.
Konohamaru and the gang were still a bit shaken up by the encounter and followed Naruto. Noticing their presence, he turned and looked at them.
"Hey boss, mind if we tag along? Those ninja really scared Moegi and Udon here-" He stopped when Moegi the girl bonked him on the head.
"Don't lie Konohamaru, you were scared too!" He rubbed his head and Naruto looked at Sakura.
Even though Sakura wanted to be alone with him, her caring nature got the better of her. She gave him a smile and slight nod in approval. Naruto sighed and looked at the three before indicating they follow.
"Alright, come on then." Konohamaru and the rest cheered and followed Sakura and Naruto on what was supposed to be their first date.
Instead, it became a little party with their new friends.
000
In a tree overlooking the scene where Suna met Konoha, three figures stood. Their headbands indicated they were from Otogakure, a relatively new village made in the Land of Rice Paddies. The three genin that were entering the Chunin Exam coming up had watched the events unfold and had to say they were impressed by both sides.
"That one in the white robes, he was strong." The girl, Kin, said.
Dosu, the bandaged one, grunted in acknowledgment. Although to him, it was somewhat of an understatement.
"We will have to watch out for that one, I think he is on the same team as our target right? God I can't wait to fight him.." Zaku, the most anxious one of their group, said in barely reserved glee.
"Calm down you two, you know our mission. Kill the one named Sasuke Uchiha, the other ones will only be obstacles in our way." Kin and Zaku nodded, although they didn't like the fact Dosu considered himself a leader so readily.
"We can't fail..for Orochimaru-sama."
000
Konohagakure
Ninja Assembly
Within the assembly area of the Hokage's mansion, there was a special meeting being held where all ninja Chunin and above were to be. For the most part it was the examiners and Jounin instructors that needed to be there, but many other ninja wanted to hear the biggest announcement; whether the year's latest genin class would participate.
Iruka Umino, a teacher of the latest class had come along as well with similar intentions. He wanted to make sure his students had progressed well and were in good hands. It was almost assured the Jounin would wait until the next exam in six months for their genin to begin, so he had little to worry about.
In the front stood the three Jounin instructors of the latest batch; Kakashi Hatake, Kurenai Yuuhi, and Asuma Sarutobi. They waited somewhat patiently for the meeting to get underway as the Hokage waited for everyone to arrive and quiet down before beginning.
"Now that we are beginning the Chunin exams, those that are in charge of the current genin squads, please step forward." The three Jounin did as asked.
"Kakashi, Kurenai, and Asuma. Are there any genin in your squads worthy of taking the exam?" The three remained silent as the Hokage spoke, along with the rest of the audience.
"As you may already know, any genin that has completed at least eight missions is eligible for entry after receiving a recommendation from you."
"Normally, we pass genin who have received twice that amount." Iruka nodded, remembering his own exam.
'This isn't necessary. Its obvious that none of the squads are prepared for this..the Jounin answers should be clear.'
"That being said, let's start with Kakashi." The man straightened in stance and began to speak.
"My name is Kakashi Hatake, and I lead Squad seven. In this squad are, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, and Naruto Namikaze." A buzz passed amongst some of the older Jounin and Chunin present.
"A Namikaze?"
"One is still alive?"
"I can't believe Kakashi was teaching one all along!"
"An assassin, can we trust he will even take the test?"
"Silence!" The Hokage ordered, indicating Kakashi continue.
"I recommend all three of these genin to take the test under my name." Iruka's eyes widened, he was letting them take the test this early?
Kurenai spoke next.
"As Kurenai Yuuhi, I lead Squad eight. In this squad are, Hinata Hyuuga, Kiba Inuzuka, and Shino Aburame. I recommend all three to take the exam."
"And I am Sarutobi Asuma, leader of Squad ten. In this squad are, Ino Yamanaka, Shikamaru Nara, and Choji Akimichi. I recommend all three to take the exam."
Whispers returned as the surprise of all three teams getting selected spread.
"All three? That hasn't happened in five years!"
"These Jounin either have a lot of confidence in their students, or they are trying to flunk them!"
The Hokage hummed to himself in thought, this was an interesting yet expected turn of events. He watched as Iruka stepped forward in disagreement.
"Forgive me Hokage-sama, but I must disagree with what has been said here!" The Jounin turned to look at the man as he spoke.
"Almost all of the names called were students of mine at the academy, I know their skills and abilities well. All have great potential, but they are not ready for these tests yet!"
Kakashi turned toward him and spoke in his usual lazy drawl, annoying Iruka.
"I was only six when I became a Chunin."
"These kids are nothing like you Kakashi!" Iruka responded in anger. "Do you want to ruin them?"
The man shrugged.
"They are always asking for tougher missions, perhaps this will show them what real difficulty is. Having them flunk would be interesting to see too." Iruka growled and stepped forward.
"What did you say?" Kakashi again shrugged.
"It was just a joke, Iruka-sensei." The honorific was used to belittle him.
"Kakashi, stop this." Kurenai said, not wishing to bring more conflict between them.
"On the contrary Kurenai, Iruka needs to know he isn't in charge of them anymore. Sakura and Sasuke are my subordinates now." He glared at Kakashi but couldn't find words to answer.
"Iruka, I understand your argument." The Hokage interjected, making attention turn to him again.
"Hokage-sama.." Iruka was hoping he would side with him.
"However, what Kakashi says is true, they are now his students as well as Kurenai and Asuma's. I believe if you would just see them, you could notice their subtle improvements too."
Iruka's eyes widened, could they change so much in such a short time?
"Hokage-sama, excuse my intrusion." Eyes turned toward Hayama Shirakumo, an aging Jounin that served during the Third Shinobi War.
His insight was often well received among other shinobi of the village and he rarely spoke up at meetings. Whatever he had to say, it must have been important.
"Yes Hayama, go ahead." With permission from the Hokage, he stepped forward next to where Iruka was.
"I would like to argue the point of allowing the Namikaze of entering the exam. I argue this because of the danger he could be to the village if allowed to continue his ninja training." The others began whisper things as well while the Hokage listened to what the man had to say.
"Hokage-sama, how do we even know if it will challenge him? He was brought up in assassin training and therefore we cannot be assured his abilities will be tested in the ways they should. What if he passes but refuses to continue serving the village?" This got people talking but most of all it annoyed Kakashi.
'He obviously doesn't respect the Namikaze very much. I can't say I know Naruto's intentions any better than him, but putting faith in someone is better than doubt.'
"Hmm. I respect what you say Hayama, and I know that many are still wary of the conflict with the Namikaze. I still defer to Kakashi's decision, he has been with Naruto for the past few months and should know him better than any here." The silver haired Jounin bowed in acknowledgment.
"I would also like to remind all of you, that the Yondaime too was an assassin. Not only did he become a Jounin of this village, but he also led his clan as an assassin. I have every confidence that Naruto Namikaze can do the same." This quieted everyone down as they remembered the Fourth, one of the greatest Kage they had during his time.
Hayama bowed in defeat and fell back into the rest of the ninja assembled.
"This meeting is adjourned. Jounin, dismiss your invitations to your genin as soon as possible. Iruka, come with me to my office to further discuss your predicament." Iruka stumbled and quickly began to follow.
"Yes, Hokage-sama!"
000
Konohagakure
Team 7 Meeting Place
Again, the three genin assembled and waited for their teacher at their usual spot on the red bridge near their training grounds. Naruto and Sakura had arrived together and Sasuke was surprised at her new style. He had on occasion seen her wear the robes when she and Naruto would train together, but he had no idea she liked them so much.
They had just come from Naruto's compound after doing some early morning reading, but had come purposely late because they knew Kakashi wasn't one to arrive on time.
In a puff of smoke, all three looked up to see their teacher standing on a nearby archway, waving down at them.
"Yo."
Sasuke growled.
"You're late." The Jounin sweat dropped and shrugged.
"I guess I got lost on the road of life, you know how it is." The assassin duo remained quiet, just waiting for him to speak.
Kakashi locked eyes with Sakura's new outfit and whistled in approval.
"Sakura, it seems you have been training with Naruto. Picking up his fashion I see." Sakura blushed a bit and shrugged.
"Its just a training robe Kakashi-sensei, Naruto-kun says that I will get a robe like his later when my training is done." Kakashi just nodded, it seemed she had gotten serious after all.
'Good for her and good for Naruto..although it does sting me a bit that she is not learning from me.'
Sasuke tapped his foot impatiently.
"Get on with it Kakashi, what do you want?" The Jounin hopped down and handed each of them a card.
"This is your invitation to take part in the Chunin exams, so keep track of it. If you want to take part, sign the card and take it with you to the academy five days from now. The first exam is held there."
His eyes turned to Naruto as all three were examining the piece of paper.
"Naruto, as you may know since you are a Namikaze, you technically don't have to take the exam. As per the binding contracts set at the Founding of Konoha, no one can force you to become a Chunin." The blonde nodded and placed the card in his pocket.
"Don't make your decision suddenly, I want you all to go home and think about the risks and rewards of becoming a Chunin before you sign. We'll have our next team meeting after the exams are concluded. Good luck you three." Kakashi disappeared in a puff of smoke, leaving them to go their own way.
Sasuke walked off first, not bothering to say bye. Naruto started to walk in the direction of his compound and Sakura tagged along.
"Naruto, is it okay if I come with?" He looked at her and smiled.
"Of course Sakura-chan, my home is your home."
000
The two entered Naruto's clan home, walking into the living area to sit. It was quiet for a while as they both rested their cards on the small table in front of them, Naruto on one side with Sakura on the other. Feeling a bit uncomfortable, both took their hoods off so they could see one another clearly.
"So Naruto..what are you going to do?" She asked hesitantly, playing with her gloved fingers.
Sakura was worried Naruto would leave her behind, she would take the exam while he refused. He was an assassin after all and didn't have to take the exam. But without him..Sakura's heart ached to think how she could carry on without him by her side during the exam.
Naruto sighed, thinking it over.
"I will probably take part, I'll follow my father's footsteps and become just as strong of a ninja as I am an assassin. If I become a Chunin, then I can promote myself to Journeyman rank of assassins." Sakura's heart almost jumped, he would take part?
"You..really mean it Naruto-kun?" Naruto realized her insecurity and smiled, making her smile too.
"Of course Sakura, I'm not going to leave you." Sakura got up from her seat and sat next to him, making him blush.
"I'm happy, Naru-kun." She leaned on him and intertwined their fingers, holding his hand tight.
"W-what about you Sakura?" He asked back, with a bit of a stutter.
"Of course I will participate. I need to put the skills you have taught me to good use so maybe I can become a Chunin too." Naruto smiled as she leaned further onto his shoulder.
They shared a moment of quiet before Naruto tightened his grip on her hand.
"There is something I want to give you Sakura, come with me." The girl followed, blushing as Naruto kept his hand with hers the entire time.
They went into a room Sakura hadn't seen before, and her eyes widened in amazement. The room was like an armory, filled with swords and armor and so many different robes of an assassin. Naruto let go of her hand to go grab something and she could only stand in the doorway, overwhelmed.
"Here it is. Sakura, come here." She looked at Naruto and saw him holding something for her and quickly joined him.
"I want you to have this, it will help you in the exam." Upon realization of what it was, Sakura gasped.
"M-my own blade gauntlet?" He nodded and began to help her fit on the leather braces to strap it to her forearm.
'Naruto said that this was an assassin's most treasured weapon and tool..now that he is giving me one, does that mean he considers me an assassin too?'
"Thank you Naruto..I don't know what to say."
Naruto just smiled.
Sakura, betraying her own nervousness, did what she felt was right. Leaning in, her lips crashed against Naruto's in what would be their first real kiss. The blonde was so stunned, he couldn't even wrap his arms around her for the kiss that lasted for what felt like an hour. It was innocent and sweet, both a 'thank you' and an 'I love you'.
After seeing Naruto's dazed and confused look afterward, Sakura did not regret her choice and giggled.
'Oh Naruto, so sweet.'
000
Konohagakure
Sakura's Home
Sakura had just finished putting on her robes in preparation for the new day. It was time for them to begin with the Chunin exam at the academy, so Sakura had to prepare immediately. She already had all her ninja equipment on and with her robes ready she was set to go.
A knock on her sliding glass door mader her look outside to see Naruto waving at her.
"Sakura-chan, are you ready?"
"Yes Naruto! Give me a second." Sakura opened her door that revealed the rest of her house's upstairs.
"Mom! I'm going out!" Her mother called in return.
"Good luck sweetie!"
Sakura ran back to the sliding door and opened it, stepping out onto her balcony. The two shared a quick embrace before Sakura spoke.
"Naruto, are we heading to the academy?" He shook his head and indicate she follow as he leaped from her balcony and began to free run off toward the market district.
"We need to make a stop first, to get you equipped!" He shouted back as she soon began to catch up.
People looked up from the streets and saw them swinging and jumping after one another. Some shook their heads in disbelief while others were wowed by their skill.
"Equipped? But I have all my ninja gear!"
Naruto laughed and shouted back.
"I mean your assassin gear!"
Sakura's eyes widened, just where was he taking her?
000
Upon arrival in the Shimizu store, Naruto quickly introduced Sakura to Ai and Kaito. She was surprised when they bowed to her and Naruto whispered they must have thought she was an assassin too.
"Its nice to meet you Haruno-san." Ai said and Sakura said the same.
"As to you, Shimizu-san."
Naruto sensed some sort of tense relations between the girls but ignored it.
"Kaito-san, I need Sakura outfitted with similar equipment as myself. She only needs a few throwing knives though, the thing I want most for her to carry is poison and healing salves." The old man bowed and went into the back while the three young ones stood with one another.
Sakura and Ai were in the middle of a staring contest when Naruto snapped his fingers in remembrance. He took out a scroll and took out its contents, a leather vest for Sakura. Not only did it provide protection, but like Naruto's, it had room for her knives and vials to be held. To get away from the girl, Sakura readily allowed Naruto to help her put it on, making Ai even more jealous.
'Oh, so it seems she does like Naruto-kun too. Too bad he's mine.'
'Who does Sakura think she is? I am a loyal servant of the Namikaze, she has no right!'
"There you go Sakura-chan, its easy to put on. See?" She looked over herself and saw the vest fit well, smiling at Naruto.
"Thanks Naruto." She kissed him on the cheek for good measure.
Ai barely held herself back as her father entered with what Naruto requested. Sakura quickly began placing the items on the vest or in her robes as Naruto instructed. As a healer, it was her job to be the support of the squad and help any fallen member. If it came to her fighting though, Sakura was quite equipped to take down anyone with her poison and hidden blade combo.
"Thank you Kaito-san." Naruto said as he handed over the payment.
Kaito smiled.
"No, thank you Naruto-sama. Its good to see you are training more assassins, the Namikaze will be back to their original strength in no time. Take good care of him, Sakura-dono." She blushed at the honorific and bowed.
"I will Kaito-san, thank you." Naruto indicated she make use of the crawlspace exit as he waved goodbye.
"See you after the exams Kaito, and Ai." The duo left together and Ai was fuming.
'I'm not done yet, Haruno Sakura.'
000
Konohagakure
Academy
Naruto and Sakura quickly arrived at the academy to find people still filing in. Sasuke was off to the side, impatiently waiting for them to arrive. Upon seeing them land from the rooftops, he started to walk in and Naruto said they should follow along. Sakura stuck close to the blonde as many were staring at them, no doubt because of their odd look.
"What are they supposed to be?"
"Are they really from Konoha?"
"I heard that's what the assassins used to wear!"
Naruto ignored them and walked up the flight of stairs to the second floor where they had to cross until arriving at the third for the first exam. A gathering of ninja at some door made them stop to check out what was going on. Two rather well equipped ninja, and by the looks of their age also genin, were stopping anyone who tried to enter the door.
Naruto checked the number and realized they placed a genjutsu over it, making it look as though they were on the third floor. He glanced at Sakura and noticed her eying the door number as well, silently glad she caught it. Even though they were guarding what was probably an empty room, most of the genin seemed to have fallen for it.
'Might as well play along and see if I can get these guys to admit their mistake.'
As he walked up, a boy in a green jumpsuit was punched away from the door. He landed in a heap and looked back up at the ninja as they snickered at his expense.
"You want to become a Chunin? With that kind of power?" One said in a mocking tone.
"You don't have what it takes for this exam. Why don't you just go home where you belong." The other said in an equally haughty voice.
A girl was with the jumpsuit kid and stood up in defiance.
"Please let us through, we need to take the exam soon-" She too was punched and forced back, holding her face.
The crowd gasped as he hit the girl.
"That was harsh."
"You think that's harsh, you have no idea what's waiting for you in these exams. People die doing this ya know?" When he said that, a few genin looked at one another in fear.
Naruto walked up and looked at either one of them, Sakura and Sasuke were behind him.
"Drop the genjutsu and get out of my way." The one using his headband for a bandanna smirked.
"So you saw through the genjutsu, not bad." The sign returned back to the usual 201 number and the genin began to talk about they didn't notice it before.
"That's fine, but let's see you beat this!" The bandaged one said, sending a kick at Naruto who responded by sending a punch of his own.
'This guy is too slow, I can beat him easy-' Naruto sensed an incoming presence as the green jumpsuit kid jumped between them and grabbed his kick and tried to grapple Naruto's wrist.
He was able to break his hold but was astounded at the kid's speed, he hadn't even seen him coming. Lee looked at Naruto and met his eyes, as he must have been surprised that the blonde could break his grapple. Sakura was surprised that he was able to match Naruto's speed but kept herself in control as Naruto wasn't in trouble.
'That is some chakra he has in his arms, to hold back the kick.'
"Save it for the exams, you two." The kid said before releasing the guard's leg allowing the two to disappear in a puff of smoke.
"Hey Lee, what's the big idea? You were the one that said to hide our abilities, right?" Naruto observed another boy, a Hyuuga, walk up and scold Lee with the girl.
"I know but.." He didn't seem to have an answer but glanced toward Sakura; Neji quickly turned his attention to Naruto.
"You, what's your name? I haven't seen you before." Naruto shrugged.
"I'm a Namikaze, Naruto Namikaze." Eyes widened upon hearing that, a Namikaze?
"I see there are still some of you left, good, it will provide a good challenge." Sasuke growled and stepped forward.
"And what's your name, Hyuuga?" Neji looked back at Sasuke and shrugged.
"I already know who you are Sasuke Uchiha, but I'll indulge you regardless. I'm Neji, this is Tenten, and that's Rock Lee."
Tenten gave a little wave and Lee looked at their team and saw Naruto conversing with Sakura. He watched as she took off her hood and revealed her long and flowing pink hair, which made Lee instantly blush.
'Beautiful!'
"Mmm, another hot day Naruto-kun. I'll have to keep my hood off for a while." Naruto nodded and was about to say they should go when the jumpsuit kid appeared next to them.
Sakura looked and saw him staring at her, uncomfortably so. She grimaced as she didn't exactly find the notion of him looking at her so intently a good thing, nor did she find him attractive.
"You must be Sakura-san, right?" She looked confused.
"What?" He took that as a yes and gave her a big grin and a thumbs up.
"My name is Rock Lee, please be my girlfriend. I will protect you until I die!" Sakura sweat dropped.
"No way." Lee's disposition took a turn for the worse and he frowned.
"Why?"
"Because you're weird."
"WHAT?" Lee began to bawl his eyes out as Sakura took Naruto's hand in hers.
"Besides, I'm taken." Naruto blushed as Sakura leaned against him, making everyone look.
"S-sakura-chan, everyone is watching." She didn't seem to mind as she blushed and smiled.
Lee leaned up against the wall and had to take a moment to steady himself.
"I'm..weird?"
"Come on Naruto-kun, Sasuke, let's get going!" Sakura led Naruto along by the arm while Sasuke reluctantly followed.
Neji and Tenten quickly gathered up Lee and brought him along too while the other genin began to file out.
The two guards watched as the teams left from a darkened room and smiled to themselves.
"So those are the genin that Kakashi and Guy are bragging about."
"And the Namikaze, he looked pretty tough."
"This year's exam might be pretty interesting after all, at least for us." They snickered before dispersing their transformation jutsu, returning to their older selves.
It was time for the first exam to begin and for the genin to endure.
000
Alright, the chapter is complete! Next chapter will detail Rock Lee's challenge, the first exam, clues of Orochimaru's arrival, and the start of the second exam. Tell me what you thought about female Gaara in your reviews and I also hoped you all liked Sakura and Naruto's interactions with one another.
Review.
See ya next time!