Disclaimer: Naruto and Jujutsu Kaisen belong to Masashi Kishimoto and Gege Akutami. The author claims no ownership, only weaving tales within the vast landscapes crafted by these talented creators.
Chapter 2: Ripples of Chakra: Naruto's Awakening Impact
Forest of Death
Naruto faced Zaku with an eerie grin, mocking him, "Put more chakra, weakling." His eyes glowed crimson, and with a burst of inhuman speed, Naruto danced around Zaku. Each strike was a brutal display of efficiency, a dance of death that left Zaku reeling.
"Is this all you've got, I said, I NEED MOREEE !" Naruto taunted, his laughter echoing through the forest. In a swift motion, he landed a devastating punch on Zaku's abdomen, leaving him gasping for air. Blood spattered the ground as Zaku crumpled under Naruto's relentless assault.
Sasuke, witnessing the brutality, felt a shiver down his spine. Naruto's fighting style was efficient, a stark contrast to his usual exuberance. Sasuke's inner dialogue echoed, "His movements are quick, precise, and brutal. It's like he's tapped into a primal instinct, a side of him I've never seen before."
Naruto towered over the wounded Zaku, a conqueror's aura surrounding him. His mocking grin sent chills down Zaku's spine, who, now terrified, realized the true extent of the transformation. Naruto's desire for bloodshed was palpable, a force that transcended the boundaries of mere combat.
Naruto's crimson-eyed gaze shifted from Zaku to the fallen Kin, a twisted smirk playing on his lips. The Forest of Death quivered as Naruto's dominating aura intensified, casting a dark shadow over the defeated kunoichi.
Meanwhile, Kin, witnessing the brutality, hyperventilated, trying desperately to maintain composure. "Breathe, Kin. Don't let him see you suffer," she muttered to herself, fighting against the fear that threatened to consume her.
With a single, disdainful stare, Naruto oppressed Kin's entire being. She felt the weight of his dominance, the chilling blend of bloodlust and superiority. Mockingly, he sneered, "A weak woman and a pathetic kunoichi. Did you think you stood a chance?" His words echoed through the silence, a venomous proclamation that left Kin paralyzed with fear.
As she struggled to rise, Naruto's mocking laughter filled the air. "You're nothing. A disgrace to your kind," he proclaimed. With swift brutality, he cut off her hair with his sharp nails which were extended and delivered a punch that sent Kin into stupor , her body crumpling under the force.
As Naruto stood over the unconscious forms of Zaku and Kin, the Forest of Death bore witness to the aftermath of his brutal triumph. Dosu, desperate and terrified, begged for mercy, acknowledging their defeat. He tossed the Scroll of Heaven towards Naruto with trembling hands, a silent plea for mercy.
Naruto caught the scroll effortlessly, his eyes gleaming with a twisted satisfaction. The air thickened with tension as he turned towards Dosu, the leader of the Sound Genin. An ominous aura surrounded Naruto, and he raised a hand, ready to unleash his newfound power on Dosu.
Sasuke and Sakura, paralyzed with fear and shock, shouted in unison, "Naruto, stop!" The sheer brutality of Naruto's actions had left them in a state of utter disbelief. Sasuke's Sharingan reflected the horror, while Sakura, unable to comprehend the transformation, clutched her trembling hands together.
Dosu while holding Kin and Zaku in a distance after recovering escapes unceremoniously
"Naruto, we have the scrolls; there's no need to waste time here." Sasuke pleaded, his voice laced with urgency.
In the midst of this, Inner Sakura, the voice within Sakura's mind, eerily praised Naruto's ruthless efficiency in cutting Kin's hair. "Well, at least he's good at one thing. That was impressive, Naruto," she whispered, her admiration masked in a chilling tone.
As Naruto frowned, seemingly unresponsive to their pleas, Sasuke and Sakura desperately revealed the scrolls they had obtained during the chaotic encounter. "We've got both the Hell and Heaven scrolls, Naruto. We're ready to pass the exam. No need for unnecessary violence," Sakura urged, her voice shaky.
Naruto, after a moment of lingering tension, lowered his hand. The malevolent glow in his eyes subsided, and the conqueror's aura diminished. With a silent nod, he acknowledged their words, seemingly back from the brink of unrestrained aggression.
Naruto's mocking gaze fell upon Sakura's short, uneven hair, the result of her brutal encounter with Kin. His lips curled into a sly grin, and he teased, "New hairstyle, Sakura? Trying to keep up with the latest trends? Too bad it makes you look even more terrible."
Sakura, her hand nervously touching her altered hair, shot him a glare. "You think this is a joke, Naruto?" she retorted, a mix of frustration and embarrassment coloring her voice.
As Naruto observed his teammates, he couldn't ignore their battered states. His expression shifted from mockery to contemplation. "You two are a mess. Can't believe you're my teammates," he muttered, a hint of concern buried beneath the harsh words.
In a surprising turn, Naruto extended his hands towards Sasuke and Sakura's back and pats on their backs simultaneously. "Take some chakra. You both need it," he offered, his tone devoid of its usual abrasiveness.
Sasuke and Sakura exchanged wary glances and had no choice and accept Naruto's chakra. The density of his energy coursed through them, mending some of the physical and emotional wounds inflicted during the encounter. Sakura, despite the tension, couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.
"Thanks, Naruto," she mumbled, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and guilt. "And... I'm sorry for how I treated you before."
Naruto's response was a cold silence. His frown deepened, seemingly uninterested in her apology.
Sasuke, more reserved, mumbled "Thanks Naruto". The subtle acknowledgment caught Naruto off guard, a momentary break in the usual dynamic between the trio.
As the team regrouped, Naruto pondered his newfound ability. "This chakra... it has lots of properties. I can feel it, time to experiment my new tricks on those leaks peaking at us" he thought, his mind swirling with the implications of the dark force he had tapped into.
Naruto's sharp senses picked up on the approaching figures of Team Gai—Neji and Tenten rushing towards Rock Lee, who had faced Dosu's Hidden Sound Wave Technique earlier.
Naruto's eyes, now bearing the mysterious seal patterns, glinted with a mixture of anticipation and something darker. He turned towards the approaching Team Gai, a twisted grin forming on his face. "Well, well, look who's here. Another team to snack on in the meantime" he remarked, his voice carrying a demented edge.
Neji and Tenten, on alert, exchanged wary glances. Neji, a master of the Byakugan, noticed the unsettling bloodlust emanating from Naruto. "Be cautious. Naruto's chakra is different, and his demeanor is unnerving," Neji warned, his Byakugan scanning Naruto's transformed form.
As Team Ino-Shika-Cho observed the unfolding scene from a distance, the atmosphere became charged with tension. Naruto's gaze shifted towards them, and he called out, "Ino-Shika-Cho, you want to fight too? How about it, one by one or all together? Or are you scared?"
Ino, Shikamaru, and Choji exchanged uneasy glances. Shikamaru sighed, recognizing the volatile situation. "This is troublesome. Naruto's chakra is off the charts, and his attitude is unpredictable. We can't afford to engage right now."
As Naruto's demented laughter echoed through the forest, the members of Team Gai and Ino-Shika-Cho hesitated. Naruto's bloodlust leaked towards them, a palpable force that instilled fear and reluctance.
"How about it? Are you too scared to fight?" Naruto taunted, his eyes glinting with a malevolent light. The atmosphere crackled with the tension of imminent conflict.
Team Gai, wary of Naruto's unpredictable power, exchanged glances. Tenten spoke up, "We should be cautious. Something's not right with Naruto. We don't know what he's capable of now."
Neji nodded in agreement. "Let's back off for now. We can't risk engaging without understanding the extent of his power."
Meanwhile, Team Ino-Shika-Cho, standing at a safe distance, felt the oppressive aura emanating from Naruto. Ino, nervously twirling a strand of her hair, whispered, "This isn't the Naruto we know. We need to be careful."
As the tension reached its peak, Naruto's expression shifted. The demented grin faded, replaced by a contemplative frown. "Fine then. If you're too scared to fight, I won't force you. But remember, I'm not someone you want to cross," he warned, the weight of his words lingering in the air.
As Team Gai and Ino-Shika-Cho retreated, Naruto's mind wrestled with conflicting thoughts. "I need to understand this power. What did Orochimaru do to me? These seals, this darkness... It's both a weapon and a curse. I need to master it, not let it control me," he thought, a sense of determination settling within.
Sakura and Sasuke, observing Naruto's internal struggle, approached cautiously. Sasuke, his eyes narrowing, remarked, "Naruto, what's going on with you? This power... it's not normal."
Naruto, momentarily lost in his thoughts, met Sasuke's gaze. "Orochimaru messed with me, Sasuke. These seals... I don't fully understand them yet, but I can't let them take over. I won't let him win," Naruto asserted, his resolve cutting through the shadows that lingered within.
Naruto couldn't help but notice the ominous presence of Sasuke's cursed seal. His eyes, keenly attuned to the true essence of chakra, traced the dark markings with a sense of both understanding and concern.
"Sasuke, you should be careful with that cursed seal. Don't let it control you," Naruto playfully advised, his tone carrying a rare hint of genuine concern.
Sasuke, confused by Naruto's sudden earnestness, found himself caught in a flashback. The memory of tearing Zaku's arms in an unusual and ruthless manner flashed before his eyes, reminiscent of Itachi Uchiha's mentality. The haunting recollection left Sasuke unsettled, as if he had been a mere spectator to his own actions.
Naruto, observing the turmoil in Sasuke's eyes, took a step closer. "There's more to that seal than just power, Sasuke. It's like there's something alive in it, a sort of soul or sentient chakra. When you're emotionally unstable, it can influence you, alter your very soul," Naruto speculated, his words carrying a weight of experience.
Sasuke, now more attentive, absorbed Naruto's words. "Influence my soul?" he muttered, grappling with the implications of Naruto's revelation.
Naruto continued, "I've seen it happen before. That mark can bring out the worst in you if you let it. Don't fall prey to its control."
Sasuke, grateful for the unexpected advice, nodded in acknowledgment. "Thanks, Naruto. I'll keep that in mind."
Meanwhile, Sakura, overhearing their conversation, interjected, "Both of you have cursed marks, and they're different. What does that mean?"
Naruto, taken aback, felt a shiver down his spine. The cascading effects of different seals and their potential consequences played out in his inner thoughts. He remembered the merging of powers within him, the forbidden seals, the Nine-Tailed Fox's chakra, and the Reaper's essence converging into a volatile force.
Sasuke, curiosity etched on his face, questioned Naruto, "Naruto, what's with these extra seal patterns? Did Orochimaru do something else to you?"
Naruto, taken aback by Sasuke's observation, glanced down at his own body.
In Naruto's mind, a whirlwind of thoughts began. "These seals... they're different from the ones I knew. Orochimaru did something more than just the Cursed Seal and Five Elements Seal. What did he unleash within me? And why do I feel a surge of power yet a lingering sense of danger? Kyuubis chakra and its quality as well as something else of divine nature.."
Sasuke's gaze remained fixated on Naruto, waiting for an explanation. Naruto, grappling with the realization of the additional seals, finally responded, "Orochimaru, that snake bastard... he did something more than I thought. These seals are like a tangled web of power and darkness. I can feel it coursing through me, but it's like a double-edged sword. The power is there, but so are the risks."
Sakura, overhearing the conversation, couldn't help but worry. "Naruto, what does this mean for you?" she questioned, her voice laced with concern.
Naruto, his eyes reflecting annoyance, replied, "I don't know. I need to master this power, not let it master me, let's go and have some fun in killing more fools."
Sakura, her concern evident, added, "Naruto, remember, we've got the scrolls. We don't need unnecessary fights. Let's focus on passing the Chunin Exam and figuring out how to deal with Orochimaru's influence."
Naruto replies "Well, seems like the relatively strong ones have already passed"
Sasuke and Sakura, witnessing Naruto's newfound sensory abilities, stood frozen in the midst of the chaotic atmosphere in the Forest of Death. The realization dawned on them that Naruto had evolved beyond their understanding.
Sasuke's Sharingan flickered as he struggled to comprehend the extent of Naruto's sensory prowess. "This... it's beyond anything I've seen. His perception reaches kilometers. Is this a result of the cursed seal's influence?"
Sakura, her eyes wide with a mixture of awe and unease, murmured, "Naruto, he's become something else entirely. How can he sense everything over such vast distances? It's like he's connected to the entire forest."
Sasuke and Sakura, their sense of balance disrupted by Dosu's attack, exchanged glances before hesitantly approaching Naruto. The request hung in the air as they asked in unison, "Naruto, can you... carry us?"
Naruto, sporting a mischievous grin, glanced at his teammates. "Well, Guess I'll have to carry you two," he replied, his tone a blend of arrogance and amusement.
Sasuke and Sakura, taken aback by Naruto's unexpected compliance, exchanged bewildered glances. Naruto's newfound abilities left them on edge, unsure of what to expect. Sasuke, maintaining his composure, remarked, "We still have six hours to pass this exam and it takes 4 hours to travel to the tower according to my calculations."
Naruto's grin widened. "No problem. Just give me 1 hour, and we'll reach the tower," he declared, a confident glint in his eyes.
Sakura, attempting to dismiss Naruto's assertion, started, "Naruto, don't joke around. It's not—" Before she could finish, Naruto swiftly grabbed both Sasuke and Sakura, effortlessly hoisting them over his shoulders.
"Just hold on tight," Naruto instructed, his tone surprisingly calm. With a sudden burst of speed, he shot forward, leaving the forest behind in a blur of motion. The wind rushed past Sasuke and Sakura, who were caught in a whirlwind of disbelief.
Sasuke, typically reserved, couldn't hide his shock. "What... what kind of speed is this?" he muttered, his Sharingan struggling to keep up with Naruto's movements.
Sakura, too stunned to speak, clutched Naruto's jacket tightly. The scenery around them became a dizzying blur as Naruto propelled them forward with an otherworldly velocity.
Inner Sakura, the voice in Sakura's mind, echoed her disbelief. "This is impossible! Naruto was never this fast! What kind of power did he tap into, cha?" she marveled, a mix of awe and fear resonating in her thoughts.
In the midst of the whirlwind journey, Sakura's voice barely carried over the rushing wind.
"What... what's happening?"
As Naruto approached the designated tower area with seemingly effortless ease, Sasuke, his stoic demeanor faltering, muttered, "This... this isn't normal. Naruto, what have you become?"
Chunin Exam Tower
Naruto, slowing to a halt with a grin, gently placed his teammates on solid ground. The atmosphere hung heavy with the weight of their newfound understanding.
Sakura, her eyes wide, stammered, "Naruto, how... how did you—"
Naruto, his focus unwavering, grinned as he focused on the descriptions mentioned in the wall of the tower. "Just enjoying the perks of my new abilities," he replied, the words laced with both pride and mystery.
Naruto turned to Sasuke and Sakura with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"Hey, Sasuke, Sakura, let's open both scrolls at the same time. It'll be more fun that way," Naruto suggested, a playful smirk playing on his lips.
Sasuke, ever stoic, nodded in agreement, while Sakura hesitated. "Naruto, are you sure about this? What if something goes wrong?" she voiced her concern, eyeing the scrolls warily.
"Don't worry, Sakura. What could go wrong? It's just opening some scrolls," Naruto reassured, though his eyes hinted at a hidden agenda.
As Sasuke and Sakura simultaneously opened the scrolls, a burst of light enveloped them, and the familiar figure of Iruka Umino materialized before them.
His eyes widened as he took in the sight of Sakura and Sasuke, both showing signs of exhaustion and visible injuries. The Forest of Death had lived up to its name, leaving Team 7 battered and worn. But what caught Iruka's attention the most was Naruto, standing with an air of otherworldly dominance, his bare torso revealing the intricate seal patterns that seemed to pulse with an alien energy.
Iruka hesitated, glancing from one team member to another. "What... happened here?" he asked cautiously, his voice a mixture of concern and disbelief. The once-familiar faces of his students now seemed like strangers touched by something beyond their understanding.
Sasuke, his Sharingan dimmed but alert, nodded toward Naruto. "Orochimaru happened. Naruto and I got marked, and things got out of control."
Iruka's gaze shifted to Naruto, and his eyes widened further. The whisker-like marks on Naruto's cheeks were gone, replaced by an intricate network of seals that extended from the core to his head and shoulders, covering his entire body. The air around Naruto exuded a palpable aura, a manifestation of something both alien and demonic.
"Naruto, what... What did Orochimaru do to you?" Iruka asked, his voice tinged with both shock and concern. The bloodlust and dominance that radiated from Naruto were unsettling, a far cry from the spirited, albeit mischievous, ninja Iruka had known.
Naruto, his gaze meeting Iruka's, didn't respond immediately. The transformation within him, the amalgamation of dark arts and primal forces, lingered in the air. "It's complicated, Iruka-sensei," Naruto finally spoke, his voice carrying a weight that transcended his years.
Sakura, catching her breath, added, "We faced Orochimaru, Iruka-sensei. It was... a battle we weren't prepared for."
Iruka's eyes fell on the cursed seal on Sasuke's neck, a sinister mark that spoke of forbidden power. "Orochimaru's cursed seal..." he muttered, his mind racing to comprehend the gravity of the situation.
"Iruka-sensei, we need some rest. It's been... intense," Sakura requested, her fatigue evident in her voice.
Iruka hesitated but nodded. "We'll talk more about this, But for now, rest. I'll report the situation to Hokage-sama."
As Iruka walked away to attend to his duties, Naruto turned to Sasuke and Sakura. "Well, looks like we have some time to kill. I'm curious about these preliminaries. New opponents, new techniques—it's going to be interesting," he mused, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Sasuke, though exhausted, felt a flicker of excitement at the thought of facing new challenges. Sakura, still processing the events, nodded in agreement.
Tower in Forest of Death
Iruka entered the office, a weight on his shoulders from the urgent report he carried. To his surprise, Anko Mitarashi, the enigmatic kunoichi known for her ties to Orochimaru, was already present. The atmosphere tensed as Iruka prepared to brief the Third Hokage on Team 7's encounter with Orochimaru in the Forest of Death.
"Hokage-sama, Anko," Iruka greeted, bowing respectfully. Anko acknowledged him with a nod, her eyes sharp and focused.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, gestured for Iruka to proceed and noticed Anko's agitated state "What's the matter, my boy?"
Iruka, in a state of disbelief etched on his face, reiterated his revelation. " Hokage-sama. Orochimaru marked two genin during the Chunin Exams—Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha. Those cursed seals are his signature."
The Third Hokage, his brows furrowed, leaned forward, pressing his fingertips together ; says "Orochimaru's direct involvement with Team 7 raises the stakes significantly. The cursed seals are not to be taken lightly, and the fact that he has marked both Naruto and Sasuke suggests a deeper plan."
Anko's gaze shifted to Iruka, a hint of sympathy in her eyes. "Orochimaru doesn't choose his victims randomly. There's something about Naruto and Sasuke that drew his attention. We need to understand why."
Iruka, still processing the revelation, interjected with disbelief. "Both Naruto and Sasuke, why were they particularly selected? Why would Orochimaru target my students specifically?"
Anko uncrossed her arms, a somber expression on her face. "Orochimaru's motives are never straightforward. He seeks power, immortality, and control. If he marked Naruto and Sasuke, it's because he sees potential in them—either as vessels for his experiments or as pawns in a larger game. It may seem that he wishes to combine the forces of Sharingan and the Tailed Beast "
Iruka hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Naruto's cursed seal has taken a different form. He's undergone a transformation. His demeanor, chakra, and even his eyes have changed. It's as if he's become something else entirely."
Iruka's revelation left the Hokage and Anko in stunned silence, the weight of the information settling heavily in the room. Anko, who had faced Orochimaru's cursed seal firsthand, felt a shiver run down her spine, a cold realization dawning on her.
Hokage, breaking the silence, asked with a mix of shock and concern, "A transformation? What do you mean, Iruka?"
Iruka hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Naruto's cursed seal has taken a different form. He's undergone a transformation. His demeanor, chakra, and even his eyes have changed. It's as if he's become something else entirely."
Anko, her mind flashing back to the power explosion she had witnessed in the forest, couldn't help but gasp. The eerie similarities between Naruto's transformation and the ominous chakra she had felt before sent a shiver down her spine.
Hokage's eyes widened as he, too, experienced a moment of shock. "This power... it reminds me of something. Anko, do you remember the power explosion we faced in the past?"
Anko, her voice trembling, replied, "Yes, Hokage-sama. That overwhelming chakra and bloodlust... it's hauntingly similar. But Naruto? How is this possible?"
Hokage's gaze turned distant, memories flooding back. "I thought we had sealed away the darkness of that night—the Kyuubi's attack. But now, it seems a new shadow has emerged. Naruto carries a power that transcends our understanding."
Anko, still grappling with the revelation, muttered, "Orochimaru mentioned Naruto and Sasuke. It wasn't just about the cursed seals; he sought something more profound in them."
Hokage, a frown etching his face, contemplated the gravity of the situation. "We must proceed with caution. This is a power beyond our control, and Naruto's transformation may have far-reaching consequences."
Anko, recognizing the confusion in Iruka's eyes, took a deep breath before recounting the events of a few days back. "Hokage-sama, Iruka, it was during the investigation of chunins without faces. I encountered Orochimaru in the Forest of Death. He spoke of his interest in Naruto and Sasuke, citing their unique abilities—the Sharingan and the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki."
As Anko continued her narrative, she described the eerie encounter with Orochimaru, detailing his ominous revelations about Naruto's and Sasuke's experimental value. Her words painted a vivid picture of the encounter, emphasizing Orochimaru's fanatical gleam and the activation of the curse mark.
Flashback begins
In the hushed shadows of the Hokage's office, Anko Mitarashi delved into the unsettling reports about chunins found without faces during the Forest of Death's second round. The eerie discovery sent shivers down her spine, and a gnawing unease settled in the pit of her stomach.
Anko, her dark eyes fixed on the scrolls before her, muttered to herself, "Examinees without faces... Orochimaru's work, no doubt. But why here, and why now?"
Driven by a sense of urgency, Anko requested the assistance of ANBU through the intermediary chunin examiners, Izumo and Kotetsu. As the two chunin hurried to relay Anko's message to the Hokage, she slipped out of the office, alone, into the looming shadows of the Forest of Death.
Anko's steps were silent as she navigated the dense foliage, a sense of foreboding hanging in the air. The moon cast an ethereal glow on her form as she ventured deeper, her senses alert to any signs of Orochimaru's presence.
Her thoughts raced, pondering Orochimaru's motives. "What is he after? Is it the destruction of the Leaf, or something more sinister?" Anko's mind whirred with the possibilities, her instincts telling her that Orochimaru's schemes ran deep.
In a secluded clearing, Anko finally confronted the serpent Sannin. Orochimaru emerged from the shadows, his presence sending a chill down Anko's spine. "Anko , my lovely disciple, didn't expect you to be here " he greeted, his voice a serpent's hiss.
Anko, her eyes narrowing, demanded answers. "What's your game, Orochimaru? Why infiltrate the Chunin Exams?"
Orochimaru, a twisted smile playing on his lips, spoke with a fanatical gleam in his eyes. "Ah, Anko , always so direct. I'm here for two individuals of great interest—Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha. The Uchiha's Sharingan and the Jinchuriki of the Nine-Tails hold tremendous value."
Anko's shock was palpable, her mind racing to comprehend the gravity of Orochimaru's pursuit. " You're still the same, Orochimaru. What makes you think you can just waltz in and take whatever you please?"
Orochimaru, undeterred by Anko's outrage, activated his cursed seal, the dark markings spreading across Ankos body like a sinister omen. With a flick of his wrist, he activated the cursed seal, sending dark, serpentine patterns slithering across Anko's skin. She gritted her teeth, enduring the surge of excruciating pain.
Orochimaru's gaze shifted, and a subtle spark of curiosity flickered in his eyes. "Ah, Naruto Uzumaki. The Nine-Tails' Jinchuriki. A vessel of immense power, unpredictable and chaotic. While my primary focus lies with Sasuke, I cannot deny that the boy has captured my interest. The melding of Uchiha blood and the Tailed beast's chakra could yield fascinating results."
Anko's skepticism deepened. "You're playing with fire, Orochimaru. Naruto may be more than you bargained for."
Orochimaru chuckled, the sound sending shivers down Anko's spine. "Precisely, my dear. That's what makes it so exhilarating. The dance between the Uchiha's Sharingan and the Nine-Tails' untamed power—it's a symphony of potential. I intend to explore every note." With that, he disappeared into the shadows, leaving Anko to grapple with the unsettling revelation of his dual interests in Sasuke and Naruto.
After 2 hours
"Hokage-sama, I've encountered Orochimaru in the Forest of Death," Anko began, her voice steady but tinged with an undercurrent of urgency.
The Third Hokage, his expression somber, leaned forward. "Orochimaru? What happened, Anko?"
Anko recounted the ominous meeting with Orochimaru, detailing his interest in Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha for twisted experiments. The Hokage's brows furrowed in consternation as he absorbed the gravity of the information.
"So, he's targeting Naruto and Sasuke specifically. For experiments," the Third Hokage mused, his fingers steepled in contemplation.
Anko nodded. "He spoke of the experimental value in combining the Uchiha bloodline and the power of the Nine-Tails. It's a threat we can't ignore."
The Hokage sighed, his gaze distant as he reflected on the troubled history with Orochimaru. "Orochimaru has always sought forbidden knowledge and power. It seems his insatiable hunger has taken a darker turn."
Anko's voice sharpened with urgency. "Hokage-sama, should we halt the Chunin Exams? Orochimaru's interference poses a significant risk."
The Third Hokage, after a thoughtful pause, responded, "No, Anko. We can't halt the exams. That might send the wrong message to other hidden villages. Orochimaru's involvement must remain covert. We'll increase security measures, but the exams must proceed."
Anko, though uneasy with the decision, acknowledged the Hokage's wisdom. "Understood, Hokage-sama. I'll reinforce security and keep a vigilant eye on the proceedings."
The Hokage's gaze shifted to the window, the fading sunlight casting long shadows in the room. "Anko, do your best to keep this matter contained. We can't afford to panic among the participants or other villages."
As Anko left the office, the Third Hokage's thoughts lingered on the specter of Orochimaru. The memories of their shared past, once filled with camaraderie, now resonated with the darkness that had taken root in his former student's heart.
Days passed, and the Chunin Exams pressed forward. The Forest of Death, still shrouded in mystery and danger, became the stage for the unfolding drama. Anko maintained a vigilant watch, her senses attuned to any signs of Orochimaru's presence.
In a subsequent meeting, the Hokage inquired about Naruto and Sasuke's status. Anko, her eyes reflecting the weight of the information, reported, "Naruto has undergone a transformation. His chakra bears an improved version of Orochimaru's cursed seal. As for Sasuke, he carries an ordinary curse mark."
The Third Hokage absorbed the details, concern etched on his aging face. "Improved version? What does that entail?"
Anko explained, "It appears Naruto's body has undergone a profound change. His chakra has merged with the cursed seal in a unique way. As for Sasuke, Orochimaru seems to have bestowed upon him a more traditional curse mark, similar to the one I bear."
The Hokage pondered the implications. "Naruto's transformation could be an unforeseen variable. We must keep a close eye on him. And Sasuke... Orochimaru's interest in the Uchiha bloodline is troubling."
The Next day
Hokage's office
In the Hokage's private chamber, the Third Hokage gathered the Jonin of Konoha for a crucial meeting. Kakashi Hatake, Might Guy, Kurenai Yuhi, Anko Mitarashi, and Asuma Sarutobi assembled, their expressions reflecting a blend of seriousness and anticipation.
The Third Hokage, his eyes bearing the weight of responsibility, addressed the seasoned Jonin. "An urgent matter requires our attention. Orochimaru has infiltrated the Chunin Exams, and his interest lies in Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha. We must exercise caution to avoid causing panic among the villagers."
Anko's eyes bore the weight of the encounter with Orochimaru. "He's interested in Naruto and Sasuke for twisted experiments. We can't let this information spread to the villagers."
"Hokage-sama," Kakashi spoke with an unusual edge to his voice,
"Orochimaru's involvement with Naruto and Sasuke...it can't be ignored. What do we truly know about his intentions?"
The Third Hokage, aware of Kakashi's history with Orochimaru, sighed deeply. "Kakashi, you more than anyone know the dangers Orochimaru poses. His motives are unclear, but we must tread cautiously. Anko will continue her surveillance, and we'll act accordingly."
As the meeting progressed, Kakashi found himself lost in a momentary daze, his thoughts drifting back to a time when Orochimaru's oppressive presence cast a shadow over his ANBU days. The chilling memory of being suppressed by Orochimaru's sheer power lingered, a testament to the relentless threat posed by the rogue ninja.
Guy, seated next to Kakashi, noticed the subtle shift in his friend's demeanor. Kakashi's normally sharp gaze dulled, and a cloud of contemplation veiled his expression. Guy, always attuned to Kakashi's moods, frowned with concern.
"Kakashi, my eternal rival," Guy nudged him with an elbow, breaking through the haze that surrounded Kakashi's pats Kakashi on the back and exclaims "Fear not! The flames of youth will burn away any darkness that tries to harm our village!"
Kakashi blinked, returning to the present, and met Guy's concerned gaze. The memories of Orochimaru's formidable power lingered, leaving a taste of unease. "Just reflecting on old battles, Guy. Orochimaru is not to be underestimated. We need to be prepared."
Guy's frown deepened, understanding the weight of Kakashi's words. "You faced Orochimaru before, in your ANBU days. That was in the past, Kakashi. But now, we have the strength of Konoha behind us. Together, we'll protect our young ninjas."
Before the room could fully regain its composure, a sudden explosion of power reverberated through the Forest of Death. The sheer force of the shockwave reached the Hokage Tower, jolting everyone present. The room plunged into an eerie silence as they collectively sensed an unimaginable surge of chakra and bloodlust.
In the minds of those in the room, a shadowy figure emerged – Naruto in his transformed state. Four blood-red eyes glowed ominously, and a malevolent grin stretched across his face . The immense chakra and bloodlust he exuded transcended the memories of the Kyuubi attack. It was a malevolence that reached into the depths of the soul, a force that surpassed the mere physical manifestation of chakra.
Anko, the Third Hokage, Kakashi, Guy, Kurenai and Asuma found themselves standing in a daze, their minds assaulted by the oppressive aura of Naruto's transformed state. Flashbacks from the Kyuubi attack flooded their consciousness, the trauma resurfacing with renewed intensity.
The Third Hokage, shaken by the weight of the memories, gathered his composure. "Summon the Anbu. We need to assess the situation immediately." His voice carried an edge of urgency.
As the Anbu were summoned, the room transitioned into controlled chaos. The Jonin and Anbu assembled, ready to confront the unknown threat that had emerged in the Forest of Death. The Third Hokage led the way to the Chunin viewing room, a sense of foreboding settling over them.
Forest Of Death
As the echoes of the explosion reverberated, the collective consciousness of the participants was invaded by an enigmatic shadow – the transformed state of Naruto Uzumaki. Four blood-red eyes and a grin reminiscent of pure malevolence and bloodlust haunted their thoughts, sowing seeds of dread.
Team 8, composed of Hinata, Kiba, and Shino, stood frozen as the explosion rattled the forest. Hinata's Byakugan activated involuntarily, revealing the chakra fluctuations. Her usually calm demeanor was replaced by wide-eyed fear.
Hinata's usually steady hands trembled as she clutched her kunai, her Byakugan unable to pierce the mystery of the explosion.
Hinata stuttered, "W-what's happening? That chakra, it's so intense..."
Kiba's keen sense of smell caught a whiff of something malevolent in the air, and even Akamaru whimpered in unease.
Kiba, the usually brash and confident Inuzuka, couldn't hide the unease in his voice. "This isn't normal. Something's wrong, seriously wrong."
Shino's stoic expression betrayed a rare hint of concern as he adjusted his sunglasses.
Shino, the stoic bug user, observed with heightened intensity. "The source of this chakra is beyond our current level. My bugs are even moving away from the source due to fear ."
Kabuto, positioned nearby, was shaken to his core. He couldn't conceal the mix of fear and fascination on his face. "What kind of power is this? It's overwhelming!"
Among the onlookers was Team Baki, with Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro. They were formidable and feared, with Gaara's own unsettling reputation casting a long shadow. However, the inexplicable surge in power left even the Sand Siblings on edge.
In the aftermath of the explosion, the Rain Shinobi Genin lay unconscious, a testament to Gaara's ruthless display. His bloodthirsty grin and cruel laughter echoed through the forest as he reveled in his violent triumph. Team Baki, initially confident in their prowess, exchanged uneasy glances.
Temari muttered, "This... this isn't good. I thought Gaara was the scariest here, but..."
Kankuro's eyes widened in terror. "Is there someone scarier than Gaara? What's going on? Gaara was supposed to be the apex predator here."
However, in the midst of his newfound bloodlust, Gaara experienced an unexpected twist. Shukaku, the fearsome tailed beast within him, trembled in fear and exhibited signs of cowardice. Gaara, taken aback, could feel the sudden shift in Shukaku's disposition. Confusion clouded his usually stoic expression.
"Why? What's happening?" Gaara muttered, his voice a mix of surprise and unease. His connection with Shukaku, typically unwavering, now wavered in the face of an unknown force.
His siblings, Temari and Kankuro, watched in shock as Gaara grappled with an unseen adversary within himself. The realization struck them that their meticulously planned Konoha destruction scheme might be unraveling. The fear in Gaara's eyes mirrored their own apprehension.
Temari, trying to mask her anxiety, approached Gaara cautiously. "Gaara, what's wrong? You're scaring us."
Kankuro, usually brimming with confidence, stuttered as he spoke. "This wasn't part of the plan. Why is Gaara scared?"
Gaara, lost in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions, struggled to make sense of the turmoil within. "Mother... why won't you respond?" he whispered, the confusion etched on his face.
Temari and Kankuro, Gaara's siblings, felt a chill run down their spines as they observed their brother's distress. The Sand siblings were a formidable trio, but the sudden shift in Gaara's demeanor sent shivers through their spines. Something was amiss, something beyond their understanding.
Temari exchanged a worried glance with Kankuro, her fan held tightly in her grip. "What's going on with Gaara? This isn't like him."
Kankuro, typically composed and masked, couldn't conceal the unease in his voice. "I don't know, but whatever it is, it's affecting him deeply."
As the trio grappled with the unsettling atmosphere, a revelation struck them – their grand plan to wreak havoc in Konoha might be unraveling. The chaos they intended to sow during the Chunin Exams seemed insignificant compared to the ominous presence that now cast a shadow over their ambitions.
Kankuro's voice quivered as he muttered, "This wasn't part of the plan. What if we've underestimated the situation?"
Temari's eyes widened with realization. "If something has Gaara scared, it's beyond our control. We need to reassess our strategy."
Barren Land near Konoha Village
A shadowy figure, veiled in an otherworldly aura, emerged in their minds – Naruto in his transformed state.
Orochimaru, observing Konoha with a detached interest, was captivated and disturbed by the unfolding chaos. The manifestation of Naruto's four blood-red eyes and a manic and malevolent grin sent shivers down Orochimaru's spine. His gaze shifted between fascination and fear, recognizing a force that transcended the ordinary. Naruto's transformation had surpassed the limits of his comprehension, triggering a mixture of awe and trepidation in the legendary Sannin.
Inner dialogue whispered through Orochimaru's mind as he struggled to maintain his composure. "What manner of power is this? Kyuubi's influence… but this is different. A force of chaos and malevolence that I have never witnessed before. Is this the true extent of the boy's potential?"
Meanwhile, in the Chunin Exam viewing room, Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, watched the unfolding events with a deep-seated concern etched on his face. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on his shoulders. With a panicky urgency, he turned to the Anbu stationed in the room.
"Find Jiraiya immediately. We need him here. There's something happening in the forest that could have dire consequences. Go!" His voice held a mixture of worry and authority as he issued the command.
The Anbu, accustomed to swift and silent movements, disappeared from the room in a blur, following the Hokage's urgent directive. As they darted through the village, the atmosphere within Konoha became charged with a sense of foreboding. Anbu's mission was clear – locate Jiraiya, one of the village's most formidable shinobi, and bring him to the heart of the unfolding crisis.
Flashback ends
Tower in Forest of Death
Iruka, the news of Naruto's past actions lingering in his mind, stood in the office, a mixture of shock and disbelief etched across his face. The revelation about Naruto exuding that overwhelming chakra and bloodlust left him in a daze, struggling to process the magnitude of Naruto's transformation.
Third Hokage observed Iruka's bewildered expression and decided to break the tense silence. "Iruka, it seems Naruto's power has taken an unforeseen turn. We can't dwell on the past. In two hours, the preliminary round of the Chunin Exams will begin. We must ensure that the village remains vigilant."
Iruka, still grappling with the shock, stammered, "Hokage-sama, Naruto's power... It's beyond anything I could have imagined. What should we do?"
Third Hokage, with a stern expression, replied, "We proceed with the Chunin Exams as planned. Naruto's actions have consequences, but we cannot let fear paralyze us. We must trust our shinobi and their ability to face the challenges ahead."
Iruka, though hesitant, nodded in agreement. "Yes, Hokage-sama. But what about the Jonin? Should we inform them about Naruto's situation?"
Third Hokage sighed, "Yes, Iruka. After one hour, inform the Konoha Jonin to visit their students in the Chunin Tower. We need everyone on alert, and they should be prepared for any unforeseen developments. Naruto's actions may have repercussions, and we must be ready to handle them."
Iruka, still trying to comprehend the gravity of the situation, left the office with a sense of urgency. The village was on the brink of a significant event, and the repercussions of Naruto's actions cast a shadow over the Chunin Exams.
Chunin Exam viewers room
Kakashi, hearing the news, muttered, "Naruto , Sasuke, Sakura, what have you three been through ?" The memories of his encounters with Orochimaru resurfaced, adding an extra layer of unease to his thoughts.
Asuma, known for his calm demeanor, spoke with a hint of concern, "The Chunin Exams are about to get more complicated. We need to be prepared for anything."
Kurenai, her eyes reflecting a mix of worry and determination, added, "Our students will face challenges, and we must be there to guide them through the storm."
Guy, with his usual energetic spirit, proclaimed, "The flames of youth burn brightest in times of adversity! Our students will rise to the occasion. Believe in YOUTH!"
Authors note:
Greetings, comrades! 🌟
You might be curious about my intense focus on the subtleties in every interaction between characters while on the topic of Naruto. It's driven by his newfound passion to delve into the intricate details of every Jutsu, as he embarks on a journey to explore the vast world of shinobi and sage arts. Through these minor details, I aim to capture the essence of his future interactions. In this narrative, I depict Orochimaru as a figure reminiscent of Kenjaku, mirroring Naruto's representation of Sukuna.
Your reviews on Chapter 2 are eagerly awaited. I hope you savor Naruto's unfolding odyssey, drawing parallels with Sukuna's, and look forward to delving into your perspectives on the storyline.