Here we are again with Chapter 4 of the Bijuu Armors.
Once again a thank you to all those who have Favorited and Follow myself and this fic. And now for my Top 2 Reviews:
SV-I'm glad you appreciate my exclusion of Hinata, Sakura, and Ino for their overuse. I do wish to point out though that in regards to Canon Hinata is A LOT stronger than some give her credit for. Besides in context can you see Sakura doing ANY of the stuff Hinata did during the Pre-Shippuden Filler as opposed to Sakura? Taking on that Giant Bee Summon, um no I see Sakura hiding behind Naruto and others to handle it, unlike Hinata. I also liked your reasons and points for having either Tayuya or Sasame in the harem. Both where well thought out and usable factors.
Dann Knight-I liked your argument and acknowledgement that Kurenai got the short end of the stick out of all the Rookie 12 Sensei's...Kishimoto's best excuse, she's a woman and got pregnant...stupid. She is on the poll so you can vote for her.
Arashi: Thank you again to all those who review since my last update. Now to the disclaimer:
*Arashi cuts himself off*
Arashi: And here to say it is instead of a favorite character of mine will be my partner and friend Yurei King!
*A giant portal of green energy swirls on the ground and out steps a figure in a ghostly black cloak wearing a demonic skull mask*
Yurei King: Kamen Rider Arashi does not own Naruto. But he owns this particular fic.
Arashi: Thanks pal. By the way sweet outfit, not as cool as my Decade costume but close.
Yurei King: No problem, but mine is way more imposing. *pulls out a scythe as grey mist begins to drift from underneath the cloak* You can't beat the dark and sinister look.
Arashi: *Pulls out all Final Form Ride cards from Decade* True but where you have one I have TEN!
Yurei King: Quality over quantity man. *Turns to audience* I keep telling him but he never listens.
Arashi: *Glares at Yurei* This ain't over! Anyways, Enjoy!
Key:
"Naruto's Nindo says: I just whooped your ASS!"-Human Speech
"Oh dear"'-Human Thoughts
"And that's the bottom line cause the Nine-Tailed Fox said so!"-Bijuu & Summon Speech
"Oh..."-Bijuu & Summon Thought
"Read Between the Lines no Jutsu"-Jutsu Spoken
"Stunner no Jutsu"-Jutsu Thought
Sword of Asskicking and Armor of Badassness-Weapon or Unique Tool Names
The Bijuu Armors
Chapter 4: HARD Facts/A New Power Rises
-Konoha Stadium, Day of the Chuunin Exam Finals-
It was finally here, the Chuunin Exam Finals. Daiymos and Village Leaders from all around the Elemental Nations had come to see this biannual tournament to see which village had the best crop of Genin's to hire for their needs. Watching from his personal booth we find Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Sandaime Hokage himself watching the crowds mill in to their seats. Looking down at the ninja in the coming fights he couldn't help but be a bit nervous on seeing no signs of Naruto.
He wasn't concerned for Sasuke, seeing as since he knew that if he was with Kakashi, and knowing the Uchiha's love for being in the spotlight, would more than likely show up late and in a dramatic fashion.
Pushing such thoughts aside Hiruzen turned as he saw the first of his two visitors for this exam. Entering in was none other than the Yondaime Raikage himself A. A was a giant of a man, one could best describe as having muscles on his muscles. Standing behind the man where two unfamiliar ninja from Kumo, 'Most likely his bodyguards' thought the titled 'God of Shinobi'. The first was a woman of great beauty, dark skinned (like most native to Rai no Kuni are), and 'ehem' sizes that reminded the Hokage a bit of a certain female student of his.
The other was a large man, not as large as the Raikage but not to far behind, wearing shades and very oddly a special harness holding not one or two but seven swords. Said shinobi was currently looking down at the arena floor at, what Hiruzen could only guess, was the Kumo kunoichi below.
"Well it's been a few years but I see you still got some fire in you old man, HAHAHA!" laughed a rather loud A. Deciding to take a return shot at his age from the younger Kage Sarutobi replied, "Yes the 'fire' in me hasn't died off yet Raikage-sama, at least not enough that I couldn't still send you back to Kumo in a less than happy mood". Smirking at the jab the Raikage, deciding not to get into a pissing contest with the elder Kage yet, answered back, "Well anyways I see we still are waiting on the Kazekage huh. Figured he'd be hear before me Hokage-sama."
Looking over to the giant man Sarutobi said, "Yes it seems he had a bit of trouble it would seem. On another note I don't believe I've seen these two before, who might your guards be." Before A could respond the other man decided to cut him off, "YO! I float like a butterfly and sting like a killer bee. Step back fools before the mighty KIRABI!"(1) After his words all was silent in the Kage Booth, till the Hokage started snickering, only to turn into outright laughter.
"HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Quite an interesting young Shinobi you have there Raikage-sama." said the Sandaime. Before he could bash in his 'brother's' head the Kumo kunoichi stepped forward and said, "I am Mabui Sandaime-sama, it is nice to meet you." Said Mabui then finished with a small bow while still keeping a serious expression on her face.
Nodding at the young woman's politeness and respect the Hokage repiled, "Nice to meet you as well Mabui-san." Her intro done she returned to standing behind the Raikage, who after punching his brother into the floor, took his seat alongside the Hokage.
Not a minute later they were joined by the Kazekage Sabaku no Kira(2). Said Kage made his way over to his fellows, as he went to sat down the Hokage welcomed him, "Ah, good to see you could make it Kazekage-sama. I hope the trip getting here through the deserts of Kaze no Kuni didn't exhaust you too much."
Turning to the Sandaime he replied, "No I'm rather fine. I thank you for asking, though it's probably good that the exams where not held in Suna or one of the other 5 this year. I don't believe you could handle the trip to well Hokage-sama at your age. Maybe you should look into getting a Godaime soon." "HAHA, no need to worry on my account Kazekage-sama. I'm still in good enough shape to handle this position. I think I could hold out for another few years" replied the Hokage.
"I should be asking of your health though Kira-sama. I figure after making it into Hi no Kuni you'd not need to keep wearing your face cloth?(3)" questioned Hiruzen. Cause indeed the Kazekage had left his mouth cloth on, even though Hi no Kuni has no where near the harsh winds of Kaze no Kuni. "Oh, I apologize but I came down with a bit of a cough a few days ago. No worries I'm in no way contagious I just figured for courtesy's sake I'd keep it on, just in case."
Nodding at their fellow Kage's words both dropped the subject though if one noticed quickly enough they'd see the suspicious glance the Hokage sent the Kazekage.
Turning to the ground below Hiruzen noticed the continued lack of either the Uchiha and more importantly Naruto. Noticing this as well both the Raikage and Kazekage voiced their opinions. "It would seem two of your Shinobi are absent Sarutobi-sama. One of which I believe is this 'Great Uchiha' I keep hearing about" voiced the Raikage with a big grin on his face. "I to was assuming the boy would be here, after all he is set to fight my youngest son after all" stated the Kazekage while sending a side glance to the Hokage.
"My apologize but unfortunately dear Sasuke-kun was trained by Hatake Kakashi over the 2 month long period. It would seem he has picked up one of Kakashi-kun's less appropriate traits, his lateness." said the Hokage with some measure of annoyance. "As for the other shinobi missing that would be Naruto-kun, and I have word from his sensei that he will be here on time. He just wants to make a bit of an entrance. I let it be on account of Naruto's love for being a bit of a show-off and wanted to grab attention" finished the Hokage.
"Be that as it may if they aren't here on time they should be disqualified for failing to show up. I damn well didn't come all the way here to not see the Genin down below fight and rather show up when they feel they should" replied the Raikage with a small amount of anger.
"You needed worry Raikage-sama, while I can't be certain of Sasuke-kun, I can assure you that Naruto would not allow himself to miss this for anything" stated a very serious Sandaime. "I'll hold you to that Hiruzen, and for your village's sake you better be right. It not do your clients any good to have one of the one's they wanted to see not even show up on time" replied the Raikage.
With that all being said the 3 Kages turned back to looking at the prospective Genin below.
-Arena Floor-
Down below we find the other finalist waiting for the exams to begin. Not a minute later they are joined by a Konoha Jounin chewing on a senbon. Said Jounin quickly calls their attention from the stands, "Alright look sharp all eyes are on you guys today, so try not to embarrass your village. Just so you know I'm Genma and I'll be your referee for the Finals, same rules as before, what I say goes. Keep going after I say it's done and you'll be disqualified, got it."
All the gathered Genin nodded their heads at his stern words. However before more could be said Kin, noticing Naruto and the Uchiha's lack of presence voiced out, "Hey what will happen if Naruto and the Uchiha aren't here in time for their matches?" "Then they are disqualified", replied Genma.
Nodding her head at this Kin could only think, 'That baka better show up, I still owe him one afterall.'
-Arena Stands-
As for those who didn't make it to the Finals we see the now titled 'Rookie 12' sitting amongst each other and their group's senseis. With the exception of Rock Lee, Maito Gai, and Hatake Kakashi that is, Lee being escorted to the arena by Gai while Kakashi is busy doing what he has come to be know for more often than with his fighting skills...being late.
Besides the mentioned trio not present others where sitting amongst the rookies and their teachers, the likes of which included: Mitarashi Anko, Umino Iruka, Kiba's mother and older sister Tsume and Hana, and finally Tenten's parents Dustin and Hitomi.
Ironically enough unknown to most but a small few all aforementioned people had actually come for a sole reason of seeing a certain Uzumaki's performance in the exams. In Anko's case it was two-fold: on one hand it was to see the titled dobe kick the hell out of the titled Genius of the Hyuuga Clan on the other it was for her hopes in that through his win she'd make an absolute killing via the given chances he has from the Betting Pools. After all 100 to 1 odds on his lose means her win could not only put a lot of people on tighter budgets but her income would be astronomical in most comparisons.
For Iruka his was mostly an invested interest on how far, those from his last graduated Genin's class, got in their careers. Most important of all the them being Naruto himself, it also helped that in his own beliefs that regardless of what others may say he knew if nothing else Naruto would beat Neji. With that personal belief he put his last four paychecks worth of ryo on Naruto winning against the Hyuuga Genius.
In the Inuzuka's case it was more to see the pup that beat Kiba then anything else, though once again money was placed on his beating Neji, in this case by Hana without the knowledge of her mother. After all it's not exactly a good idea to tell your mother you bet half your yearly salary on a single match in the exams, especially one that had very low odds.
Finally there was the Arai's Dustin and his wife Hitomi. Both like the mentioned others here mostly to cheer for Naruto. Although Dustin himself having another reason, that being to his vested interest in Naruto's secret project. One that he has no problem admitting has had him curious every day since Naruto walked into his shop. He was deeply looking forward to seeing the first completed piece today. He only hoped whatever Naruto planned to do to it to make it into what he claimed wasn't a waste of the rare metal used to make it.
Mind you things where hardly from being quiet, especially with a certain harpy...I mean kunoichi in the audience(4). Although most Genin were confused when Iruka showed up earlier. Kurenai even asking how he's here since he has class at this time. Quick explanation being to seeing his former students while asking for a sub to take his place for just today. Anko's reason was more to watch Naruto, though she kept that to herself, and because Kurenai asked her to join her. The Inuzuka's came to watch, since it was necessary for Tsume being clan head and all to watch the possible future Chuunins, to help in the decisions later on who gets promoted.
The Arai's where there for personal reasons and stated nothing more, with only Tenten being any of the wiser on that matter.
Noticing the blonde gaki's absence Anko was quick to voice it, "Huh figured the orange gaki be here by now. Hell I even expected him here early if for the simple fact he was really intent on shoving a kunai up the Hyuuga's ass from what he did in the Prelims." Nodding more at her friends statement then her crass words Kurenai was quick to follow-up, "Yes, I was expecting the same. Hopefully he hasn't picked up his sensei's lack of respect when it comes to showing up on time."
Hearing both women's words Hitomi turned to them and answered what was on most people's minds, "I wouldn't worry too much Anko-san, Kurenai-san. Naruto is here he just wanted to take care of some personal business first before making his entrance." Noticing most everyone in their section looking at her with questioned looks Ino decided to voice her confusion at the former's statement, "Ummm, not to be rude but who are you two? And how do you know Naruto?" the inner gossip in her demanding to know their connection to her former classmate.
Speaking for her parents Tenten says, "Oh they're my parent's you guys. They, alongside myself at times, run the Arai's Smithy. As for how they know Naruto is because he's been working at our shop during his breaks from training over the last 6 weeks."
A little shocked at this bit of knowledge Sakura was the quick to reply, "But how can that be, Naruto-baka doesn't know anything about smithing or running a shop." Feeling the need to defend her newest friend Tenten answered back, "Of course he didn't, but that's why we taught him how. He learned it over the month and a half when not training and has become pretty good at it to be honest."
Even more shocked than before Kurenai was however the next to ask, "I find it a bit odd that Naruto-san would be interested in smithing, especially since it's a job that requires a lot of patience and focus. Something that, from what I've seen he lacks a lot of." "That may be true but how much do you know of Naruto-kun yourself Kurenai-san or any of you to be honest. Have any of you personally asked him of his interests outside of his love for ramen and wanting to be Hokage?"(5) asked Hitomi with a well hidden sly smile on her face.
Many realizing that they indeed didn't know much about him stopped any responses or questions for that matter, from being voiced.
Noticing the end of their questions, for the time being, Dustin and his family went back to watching the field below to wait in patience for Naruto entrance. After all if they learned one thing about Naruto for all the time he spent with the Arai's is that he likes to do things in a unique and at sometimes unorthodox way.
They would realize how right they are very soon.
-Kage's Box-
"Well I believe everything is good and we can begin" said Sarutobi. Standing from his chair the Sandaime walked forward to address the audience. Performing a quick voice enhancing jutsu, since at his age he wouldn't be able to naturally raise his voice, he spoke "Thank you all for coming to the Biannual Chuunin Exams. We hope those that have come will enjoy the performances of the coming matches. With that being said may the Chuunin Exam Finals BEGIN!"
With his piece said Sarutobi Hiruzen returned to his seat. Just before anymore could be said amongst the Kages a voice cut in from the doorway, "Well I see I'm not to late" in entered one Jiraiya the Gama Sannin. Seeing his former student present he quickly said, "Ah Jiraiya-kun I'm glad you could make it." Nodding at his sensei Jiraiya turned to the two visting Kages "Nice to see you to Sensei, and to you as well Kazekage-sama, Raikage-sama."
Before either Kage could voice a comment on the Toad Sage's appearance, from below they heard Genma's voice shout out, "Will Uzumaki Naruto please come down to the arena floor, you have five minutes before being disqualified!" Noticing his sensei's worried look Jiraiya quickly grabbed his attention, "Don't worry sensei Naruto will be here. He just wanted to try something out before hand. And before you ask, no I don't know what it is. Most likely some unique entrance."
Nodding at his student's words Sarutobi turned to look at the arena floor.
-Arena Floor, a few minutes earlier-
Hearing the Sandaime's words Genma called to attention the Genin present, "Alright everyone here's one last look at the matches, get a good look cause this is the last time before we begin." Pulling forth the same chart used after the Prelims Genma showed the current match listings:
Block A:
Match 1-Hyuuga Neji VS Uzumaki Naruto
Match 2-Sabaku no Kankuro VS Aburame Shino
Block B:
Match 1-Sabaku no Temari VS Tsuchi Kin
Match 2-Sabaku no Gaara VS Uchiha Sasuke
Yugito will face the winner of Match 1 in Block A.
Looking the match listings one last time Genma then took down the paper and put it away. Following this action he spoke up for the crowd and participants, "With the exclusion of Hyuuga Neji and Uzumaki Naruto would the other competitors return to the Fighter's Box up above so that we can begin the first match of the day."
Hearing his request all but Genma and Neji went up the stairs leading to the stands. Leaving only the two to wait for Naruto to show up.
After waiting for a few seconds Genma shouted out, "Would Uzumaki Naruto please come to the Arena for your scheduled match!" Looking around and still not seeing him Genma spoke up once more, "If Naruto does not show up in the next five minutes he will be disqualified!"
Hearing this Neji had his own thoughts on the matter, 'So it seems Fate is right. As for all your brave words you don't have the courage to show up on time to face me Uzumaki.'
As time wore down the crowd became restless and started yelling. The few that came to see Naruto started to worry for him taking so long.
It finally came to a head when Genma shouted out for one last time, "It seems Uzumaki Naruto has no showed, with that in mind Hyuuga Neji, via disqualification is the..."
*BOOM!*
Before more could be said a large explosion went off near the other entrance to the arena floor. Following the explosion a loud din of music came through the PA system to break the brief silence.
*Play Goldberg's 2nd WCW Theme music*
Just as the music started picking up smoke started billowing out of the entrance. Soon as the smoke started to fade one could just make out a figure in the smoke clouds. With a quick gust of wind the smoke started blowing away, from the shadows of the clouds a figure could be seen. Not much could be gleaned from their appearance since small streams of fire soon shot around the hidden person. As the fire continued to spew around the man, as his figured clearly showed his gender at this point, he started to slowly march through the fire itself.
As the man came into view, without a single burn or hint of fire on his clothes, many soon recognized the man to be none other than Uzumaki Naruto. However this was not the same Naruto most present knew of, instead before them was a warrior, a man who could easily be seen to be here for one reason alone. Not for a promotion, not for a chance to prove Konoha more superior than Suna or Kumo, or even to show off his skills. No this Naruto was here for one thing and one thing only, to beat the holy hell out of Neji and make him pay for his actions to Hinata. Nothing more, nothing less.
But what gave this impression to those who knew even a small fraction of Naruto's attitude and mindset? Well some saw it in his eyes, but most saw it in his new look. Gone was the trademark orange jumpsuit of Team 7's Uzumaki Naruto and what now stood was the Naruto trained by Jiraiya of the Sannin, and secretly the Kyuubi no Kitsune. First in replace of his standard shinobi sandals where jet black boots(6) with red lining going all over them(6), gone was his overly bright orange pants and in their place was black Gi pants(7), a heavy utility belt held up his pants (one that would make Batman glare in envy). Three small storage scrolls went down his right leg(8) while replacing his usual black shirt was a now padded blood-red shirt(9), and over this instead of his kill me orange jacket was a black leather jacket covered in unique white tribal-like designs. Unique they were in the case that they hid the fact all the designs where actually seals, dozens of seals.
To finish his new get-up he had on both hands a pair of crimson fingerless gloves, each with a metal plate on the back and running across the knuckles. However unlike most he had two different symbols on them, the left had the symbol for Whirlpool while on his right the kanji for the number 9. As a last touch he decided on something that even Jiraiya questioned him on, that being him wearing his headband instead of as a headband but as a bandanna like both Genma and Hayate have it. This added factor was that it pushed his bangs over his eyebrows almost entirely, cause him to get a much different reaction from some girls that don't know him that well.
*You can lower the volume or stop the song altogether at this point*
Namely Kin, Temari, Yugito, and surprisingly the likes of Hana, Anko, Kurenai, and Mabui.
A shared thought among the first three was the following, 'Since when was the midget blonde that hot!' Luckily for them everyone around them was to busy mesmerised by the blonde's entrance to notice the growing puddle of drool spreading at the young kunoichi's feet.
Back on the arena floor, Genma was the first to break the silence, "You do know you where just about to be disqualified right?" Turning to look at the Jounin Naruto replied, "I know. I was only doing that to see if my assumption was right." Seeing the questioning looks on both Genma and Neji, and particularly feeling them from most of the people up in the stands Naruto followed up with, "My assumption being if I was going to get any kind of extra time to arrive, which I didn't."
Before anymore could be said from Genma Naruto continued with, "This was mostly to make a point since I know Uchiha Sasuke would not be here at the required time. In fact I personally believe he won't even be on time for his match and try to drag out as much time, even more than I did, to make a flashy entrance. I believe this because more than once have I seen this village cater to his whims. I just want to see if you'll do it here and now of all times with not just Konoha citizens present."
-Kage's Box-
Hearing Naruto's words Sarutobi could only look on with some measure of concern, mostly on account that he was looking right at him when he said the last part. He could only guess that any means to delay the Uchiha's match would raise more than one head and draw quite a lot of ire from the multiple Daiymos present. As if to prove his point the Raikage said, "I really hope you didn't have any plans to do what this blonde gaki just said Sarutobi. I for one don't have the patience for any of my Ninja being tardy or down right late with no excuse."
Turning to his fellow Kage the Sandaime was quick to reply, "I can assure you Raikage-sama I have no intention on letting young Sasuke get away with being late to the exams. In fact if he isn't on time I will disqualify him." Hearing these words Orochi...I mean Kira asked, "I'm sure we can come to some kind of agreement Sarutobi-sama. After all many came here to see the Uchiha fight my son."
Looking at the Kazekage Sarutobi answered in kind, "Even so are clients need to understand that when asked for a mission or assignment from a village that the hired Ninja's will do them on time and be punctual. Anything less will not put us in anyone's favor, not to mention we already have a bad light on us as is from young Naruto-kun's words alone."
Hearing this and knowing that trying to put more pressure on the situation might give him away the Kazekage just nodded and resumed looking down at the arena. Had he been looking over in Jiraiya and Sarutobi's direction he'd have noticed the small moment of acknowledgement between them before turning to watch the upcoming match.
-Back on the Battleground-
Seeing his piece done Genma turned to both Genin, "Alright First Match of the Konoha Chuunin Exam Finals: Hyuuga Neji VS Uzumaki Naruto! Are both fighters ready?!" Seeing both Genin giving the a silent nod
Genma finally said, "Begin!"
Then came silence, neither Neji or Naruto said or moved, after a few seconds both slowly entered their respective fighting stances. Neji in the Hyuuga's signature Juken stance with his Byakugan active and Naruto in a simple martial arts opening stance.
After not saying anything else Neji decided to try doing to Naruto what he did to Hinata, weaken him mentally.
"You should just quit now and save yourself the embarrassment. It's by Fate's decree that I win this day. You who are nothing but a loser and the class dobe cannot hope to beat me the last years Rookie of the Year and declared Genius of the Great Hyuuga Clan! So give up now before I destroy you like I did Hinata-sama!
For a moment Naruto did nothing, his head hanging down for a moment most thought he was about to throw in the towel...until he started to shake. Soon one could hear laughing from the young Uzumaki. Till finally Naruto threw his head back and started to laugh even harder. The blonde Uzumaki continued to laugh for apparently no reason other than to laugh.
However Neji could neither find what was so funny or stand to see this class clown laugh for seemingly no reason. Having enough Neji yelled, "WHAT IS SO FUNNY! Do you find your inevitable lose amusing!"
Finally calming down Naruto spoke, "I'm laughing because of what you just said. First there's the fact you call your clan great. Last I checked not only has their been to my knowledge any Hyuuga in any real high noticeable position in this village like say: as Hokage or Sannin but also the fact your clan still uses traditions from before any village was created making you very archaic! Then there's the fact you think fate is viewable by a mere mortal child like yourself. HA! As if such a thing could ever be comprehended by someone like you! A branch member of the Hyuuga Clan."
Seeing Neji's enraged face Naruto was quick to continue, "Let's then take into account your statement of my class rank as opposed to yours. Personally speaking I've thought on that for sometime now. And realize I'd much rather be considered a dope and loser than a Rookie of the Year or Clan Prodigy! You know why? Because those in this village that hold the title Rookie of the Year aren't great people in most cases. Example number one: Orochimaru, a clanless boy who is now a S-Class Nuke-Nin and became so for experimenting on children and many others from his own village to become immortal. That alone makes you think how great a ninja he was if he feared death so much that he would do anything possible to escape it, dying is in the job description after all! Next we have Uchiha Itachi: youngest student to graduate the academy and unlock his Sharingan, and yet at the age of 16 or so butchered his entire clan save his little brother. Then we have you and Sasuke, both Rookie of the Years but with little to no social skills and even fewer friends...no wait last I checked neither of you have any friends!"
Making a mocking face Naruto quickly finished up, "Yeah, being Rookie of the Year and a Prodigy is so great. At least me and Lee have people we can call friends and allies, who do you and Sasuke have. I'll tell you have particularly no one, but a bunch of fangirls and asskissers. More importantly last I checked there is no Namikaze Clan so it comes to question how great being from a Clan is since both Hyuuga Hiashi and Uchiha Fugaku, heads of their respective clans, both failed at becoming Hokage to a seemingly clanless blonde."
Having enough of Naruto's words Neji charged Naruto down at near full speed completely enraged. "Silence!" he shouted as he went for what many could notice was a killing blow on Naruto...only to fail!
Yes even at full speed Hyuuga Neji, Rookie of the Year and titled 'Strongest Genin' in the Leaf, missed hitting the titled 'Dobe and Class Clown'. Well to be fair he didn't actually miss, to be more precise he actually was blocked!
Nearly everyone looked on with utter amazement and shock. Uzumaki Naruto, the claimed failure and loser had caught Neji's fingers, just mere inches from his heart. Using Neji's shock to his advantage Naruto quickly pulled him in close and had Neji kiss his knee...hard! Letting Neji go Naruto stood stock still as Neji collected himself.
Still surprised at what the supposed failure accomplished Neji decided to calm himself before starting on the attack again. Seeing his opponent still standing still after their first clash Neji took a moment to study his stance. Seeing no true fighting stance or visible taijutsu moves available in his enemies position Neji once again charged Naruto head-on.
However to his, and everyone else's, surprise Naruto dodged every single strike sent his way. More importantly, and to Neji's own frustration, he was dodging in a way that seemed almost like he was not even trying. As if to drive this home more so than before, Naruto quickly followed up his last dodge by stepping into Neji's guard and grabbed both his arms during mid-attack. To add insult to injury, quite literally in this case, Naruto drove his knee for the second time into Neji's face...once again quite hard.
Releasing Neji again but this time with a well-timed throw, Naruto stayed in his place while Neji nursed his now slightly bleeding nose. Breaking Neji from his slight disbelief at being struck a second time and having landed no blow of his own, Naruto spoke up again "Well ain't this a surprise the dobe has struck you not once but twice and I've done so with no injuries of my own. Obviously your clans vaunted Juken isn't as great as it seems since you couldn't stop either hit."
Enraged to the breaking point after that last comment Neji tossed several kunai followed by charging Naruto a third time, this time he was met with more success. Dodging all of the kunai was the easy part moving to dodge Neji's next barrage of Juken strikes was another story. A minor, but near fatal, mistake came in the form of Neji striking Naruto near his upper arm. This blow forced Naruto jump backwards to try and make some room for himself. Unfortunately this was what Neji wanted.
Entering a stance that confused some but shocked the ever-loving hell out of his uncle Hyuuga Hiashi, Neji shouted "Hakke Rokujūyon Shō!" Striking with more speed than before shown Neji followed his call with, "2 Palms, 4 Palms, 8 Palms, 16 Palms, 32 Palms, 64 PALMS!"
Following each yell Naruto received every strike, only barely maneuvering himself away from the more deadlier hits(10). Backing away slightly Neji looked on as his adversary fell backwards a few feet from the combined blows. Putting a arrogant smirk on his face Neji proceeded to mock his assumed defeated foe.
"Do you see now. You are garbage and a loser, just like Hinata-sama. You will never be able to compete with the likes of me or those chosen by fate to rule over those that aren't." Turning to the senbon chewing Jounin Neji said, "Call the match Genma-san he isn't getting back up." As he said this he turned to go back up the steps to the contestants booth.
Sadly for Neji he forgot one thing, don't make assumptions. Cause they have a tendency to make an ass out of you and me, in this case it's just Neji though.
Only to hear that annoying voice speaks back, "HEY! Where the HELL do you think your going!" Slightly surprised Neji turned back to see Naruto slowly, but surely, standing back on his feet. "If you think for one damn second that we are done here then you are damn wrong!"
Annoyed by his opponents refusal to back down, Neji exclaimed "Why won't you just give up! I've closed all of your most needed and important chakra points not to mention shut them down. You have no means of using your chakra anymore! So why do you still stand!"
"Because unlike you who would rather roll over and except your lot in life I fight to change and control mine!" Shouted back Naruto. Giving Neji his best stare down he quickly cut him off from saying anymore, "I still owe you for what you did to Hinata after all!" Hearing his reason Neji was quick to reply, "Do you even know why I did that to her!" Cutting Neji off again Naruto yelled, "NO I don't. But knowing you its a stupid and piss pour excuse to nearly kill her!"
Sick of the Uzumaki's words Neji decided to air his issues and the Hyuuga's dirty laundry to the crowd. Telling Naruto of the failed Kumo kidnapping of Hinata at age 3. And how to protect the Byakugan and keep from starting another war they sacrificed his father, Hiashi's twin brother Hizashi, in Hiashi's place. Hearing Neji's side of the story Naruto decided to give his opinion, "You are one of the dumbest S.O.B.'s I've ever met!"
"You blame Hinata, of all people, on something that she had no means of causing or stopping. She was 3! How the hell would a 3-year-old handle a fully trained and experienced Jounin!" shouted Naruto.
Scowling at his logic being questioned by Naruto again, Neji decided to end this, "Since you won't back down then I shall put you down!" Charging one last time to finally end this battle, Neji didn't notice, until it was to late, Naruto's smirk.
He just barely caught him saying, "Fool", before he released a massive chakra wave. Said wave sent Neji flying backwards a couple of feet only to look back at Naruto and see him hold his his right hand in a fist in front of his face. "Thanks for giving me the extra time to do this Neji, time to show the world my newest power!"
*Play Kagayaki from Kamen Rider Hibiki*
Focusing what small amount of Kyuubi's chakra he could grasp Naruto coated his right fist in it causing the kanji for FIRE to glow on the back of it. Soon his entire right fist was covered in crimson like flames. Bringing his down Naruto called out, "Yoko Ichi!"
Many from Konoha hearing this call started to panic thinking that the demon was going to call forth his power. Thankfully none voiced these thoughts to surprised at his actions up to this point. Those that knew of Naruto's personal project going into the Finals edged closer to finally see the gauntlet he built over the 6 weeks.
Back to Naruto at his call flames grew to encase his entire right arm from the tips of his fingers to his elbow. Lifting his arm back up till it was, from elbow to fingers pointing straight into the sky, Naruto finally gave one more yell and swiped his arm downwards in a chopping motion. Said action dispersed the flames over his arm to reveal his arm now covered in armor!
From aforementioned finger to elbow his entire arm was armored in a red armor: All five fingers where clawed in a blood red metal, his hand and forearm where encased in a more standard red colored steel, three spikes jutted out from the sides of his forearm on each side. Around his elbow a large spike went for about a few inches over it. Right next to the elbow spike was two more slightly thinner and shorter spikes colored a light orange in a scissors like position with the elbow spike in between. Finally on the back of his hand partially in the armor was a large deep blue ord. Said orb briefly flashed the kanji for 1 it before disappearing.(11)
Holding out his new armored arm Naruto turns to Neji and much to Neji, and every other Hyuuga present, noticed that all of his chakra points where open!
Stuck temporarily speechless Naruto decided to introduce Neji and everyone to his newest toy. "Allow me to introduce you Neji to my new armor, it's not finished yet but that's fine for now. The right gauntlet will be enough. Say hello to 'Kurama'. And goodbye to your last chance at victory, cause as of this moment *Naruto raises his gauntlet and waves in front of his face* 'You can't see me.'"(12)
CHAPTER END
Arashi: DREADFUL CLIFFHANGER JUTSU!...Always wanted to try that...hehehe. So what did you think Yurei?
Yurei: You have quite a flair for theatrics, in all I'd say you're doing very well.
Arashi: Thank you and yeah I'm starting to realize this. As a reminder at the moment the polls are still active, so if you haven't vote do so. You'll have still quite some time since they won't be closed till the end of the Invasion. I intend to give a warning on the last chapter before said closing as a last reminder. Namely the chapter that Ends the Invasion (ie to canon of Naruto's finished battle with Gaara and Sarutobi's last move to seal up Orochimaru's arms). Also if there is still someone you want in and to vote on that isn't present review and give me a reason and they will be given a slot. I think that's everything, you got anything left to say King?
Yurei: Only that if you still believe your armor is better I will reap your soul and give you to Klemper and I'll say you want to be his best friend.
Arashi: Who the HELL is Klemper, some old demon god or something like Cthulhu? And yes if you wanna brawl in the words of the Rock, "Just. Bring It"
Yurei: *waves hand and summons another portal, out steps a large ghost with blue skin and blonde hair wearing striped pajamas* Klemper, remember how I told you that if you were patient you would find a friend one day? *Klemper nods and Yurei King points to Arashi* Well there's the perfect friend right now, why don't you give him a big hug?
*Klemper looks as Arashi and his eyes become big as saucers* FRIEND! *He tackles Arashi and gives him a bear hug*
Yurei: I warned you.
Arashi: Ooohhh right...the man-child like ghost from Danny Phantom...GET HIM THE HELL AWAY FROM ME! *Arashi runs by with Klemper on his tail*
*Yurei laughing in the background*
Arashi: TWO can play at this game asshole!
*Pulls out Dienddriver loads Kamen Ride Card and fires, Summoning forth: Kamen Rider Ohja*
Ohja: *chuckles evilly and summons Venosnaker through his Advent Card*
*Ohja starts chasing after Yurei with Venosnaker assisting him*
Arashi: Try escaping a literal psychopath, that for all intents is the equivalent of Kankuro's puppets for me, meaning he only obeys ME!
Yurei: *turns intangible, all attacks phase through him* I'm waiting to be impressed. *pulls out orange book and reads*
Arashi: ...Ohja switch.
Ohja: *FINAL VENT* Destroys Klemper through Veno Crash
Arashi:...*de-summons Ohja*...oh!
*Arashi pulls out Kamen Rider Black RX Card*
Arashi: Lets try this...*Kamen Rider BLACK RX*. And now this *Kamen Rider RX: BIO!*
Arashi: Lets see if Danny Phantom is anything to go by even when intangible if another ghost becomes intangible tehn evrything is all back to square one so...
*Draws DecadeBooker in Sword Form, slashes at Yurei while activating RX Bio's intangible form...hurts Yurei*
Arashi: HA! *Steals book an destroys it via Diend Driver gun shots*
Arashi: Not so smug now huh...bastard. *flips the bird*
Yurei: *grunts and places a hand against the cut on his chest* Alright then, I make a joke and you take it personal. Let's see how serious you really are. Don't forget, I am the king of ghosts. Anything involving the spirit realm is my domain. *Scythe changes into Fright Knight's sword as an army of skeletal soldiers rise from the ground* Let's see who's the better ghost.
Arashi: How about we save this for next time...I kinda don't want this to drag up my entire bottom AN after all. Besides I didn't slash you 'Anime style'. I slashed you 'Power Ranger and Kamen Rider Style', which basically means I didn't make you bleed so much as made you release sparks for no reason.
Yurei: Oh, kinda got caught up in it. Okay then.
Arashi: We will be finishing this crap later. *Turns to audience* One last thing just for fun, I want to hear your opinions on my Chapter Title, namely What were the HARD Facts in it? Any correct guesses and I will answer ONE question on my fic privately to you via PM.
Reference Sheet:
1-I'm trying so don't be hating.
2-He's given NO name even though he has a face, unique Ninjutsu style, plenty of background material. It also made no sense that everyone else in his family has a given name, but him. Always found that to be stupid.
3-Okay seriously, how come NO ONE has EVERY questioned this before. Ninja or not he's the only one to FULLY cover his face. Not even Danzo, Mr. Paranoid himself, covers his WHOLE face, and he IS from a warring era injuries can be hand waved. But the Kazekage comes in fully covered with only his eyes seeable and NO ONE questions him, even slightly?
4-...Lets face it early Sakura wasn't a really great person. Hell most awesomeness she gained after the timeskip was lost when she not only failed to kill Sasuke herself, but nearly killed Naruto when she missed her second attempt. Face it, it would have been so much better if Kishimoto hadn't been an idiot and done what he even claims would have been better, make HINATA the main female lead instead.54-Another thing that ticked me off about the canon, at what point does anyone truly spend time with Naruto that doesn't include the following: missions, training, or mission preparations? I'll tell you never! I never see him hanging out with any of the Rookie 12 at any point that doesn't involve something entirely different. Like the short when Team 7 tried to see Kakashi with his mask off, I'm fairly certain Sakura only went because Sasuke did, and Sasuke clearly got suckered in only cause Naruto's constant tempting with what could be under the mask. The times he is shown with Kiba, Shikamaru, and Choji at the academy they are all doing what Kiba, Shikamaru, and Choji like to do: skipping class, sleeping, and eating. NEVER what Naruto might like to do. Hell ALL the Rookie's only started being his friends after he kicked most of their asses: Rock Lee didn't even acknowledge him till after Naruto came to see Lee when he was in the Hospital, Tenten didn't till after he beat Neji, Kiba was apparently a good friend till later on and he became a big jerk and, like Team Gai, was more intent on going after Sasuke and ignoring Naruto. Cue sarcasm mode: YEAH SOME FRIENDS! I never had to beat up my friends to get them to like or even acknowledge me, so what the HELL kinda friendships and bonds is Kishimoto trying to show us here? Beat up people to gain acknowledgement and friendship?
5-Think Napoleon Dynamite's boots
6-In this case they are similar to Saiyan armor boots in design.
7-Similar to Ryu's, Ken's, and Akuma's from Street Fighter
8-Think like Ryu Hayabusa from Ninja Gaiden with his sheathed kunai.
9-It is similar to the kind you see in Underarmor commercials, namely padded.
10-He still took all 64 strikes, he just kept himself from suffering any kill hits.
11-If your having trouble it's basically Issei's early Boosted Gear, just the yellow spikes near the elbow are light orange and the green ord is blue (Naruto's eye color).
12-Don't give me crap if you're a John Cena hater, I just felt like it would fit for the coming fight in chapter 5. If you hate Cena that's your opinion, I happen to not like him much myself now a days. But regardless I don't wanna hear bitching about it, I'll just delete your review if that's the case.
Arashi: Well that's all for today my dear readers and fellow Fanfic community comrades, hey Yurei where are you going?
Yurei: I've decided to literally kill some time by going to kill the Lich King from WoW as payback for consuming so many of MY souls.
Arashi: Wants some help?
Yurei: Sure, just don't slow me down. *Opens portal to Northrend and goes through*
Arashi: Well goodnight, good morning, good day, and Goodbye...*whispers: Kami this is a long ending* *Jumps through Yurei's portal, which closes afterwards.*