Ch. 27

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, but the Gushikan family and a select few is mine.

Note: The final message in the authors note is very important. Please read it.

Chapter 27~ The Exam Part 1

When we entered the building it seemed pretty sparse of competitors. But as we made our way up to the second floor there was a large crowd of people stuffing up the hallway. I frowned as I could hear a constant dull thud of a fight at the center of the crowd.

I glanced to Naruto who also had a confused look on his face. "What's going on here?" He muttered.

I stared at the crowd in front of us but shrugged. "Who cares, let's just push through so we can get to the staircase."

My teammates nodded, agreeing with me, so with me in front I walked into the crowd. Pushing past people and ignoring the blatant the glares we were getting. The further we got into the crowd I started to realize they had all surrounded a door where two guys stood. They looked very familiar but I couldn't place their names. Just as I was going to pass the scene to get to the stairs I notice one of them savagely kick a boy in all green to the floor.

I froze and turned to get a better look. Sasuke and Naruto both motioned to continue but I shrugged them off as I now headed towards the scuffle.

"What's going on here?" I demanded as I finally made it to the small clearing where the scuffle had occurred.

Both of the guys looked at me mildly surprised before grinning. "We're stopping people from attempting to take the chunin exam. If they can't pass us then there's no point for them to even trying to take it!"

I could feel a sweat drop forming on my head as I looked at the room plate number. 301.

I rose my eyebrows obviously confused.

"Please let us through. We really want to take the exam." Said a very calm voice. I glanced to see a girl with twin buns. She looked concerned as she stood from her kneeling position with her pushed over teammate. She took a breath as she also made an attempt to peacefully open the door but-

Again one of the guys punched her in the face making her fall next to her teammate.

I stood there stewing in my emotions as they continued to say how they were weeding out the ones who would fail.

I know it's not wise to draw attention to myself or teammates. That would just help others figure out to beat us. But obviously this wrong.

I clenched my fist tightly as I tried to decide whether it would be worth it or not to punch out these guys. I once again glanced around at the other room numbers and finally my confusion faded as I realized what was going on.

I crossed my arms and narrowed my eyes as I stared up at the two guys blocking the door. "Excuse me." They both looked to me again.

"What? You want to try to get past us too?" One of them, with bandages on his face, inquired.

"No. I want you to stop trying to fool everyone. Honestly it's pathetic. Now move along and stop causing a scene... Kotetsu."

Just like that the genjutsu broke revealing the real number on the door to be 201.

"Sharp as ever Takara, but all you've done is catch on." Quicker than I've ever seen him before, he launched himself at me. Aiming a kick for my face. I stood still reading myself to catch his foot with my bare hands.

Barely a moment later a flash of green appeared in front of me. Catching Kotetsu's leg. After a tense silence Kotetsu moved away and the guy turned around to look at me.

I snapped my fingers as I finally remembered who kid is.

"... Lee? Rock Lee?" I questioned, slightly unsure still. After all, it been probably three years.

Lee grinned and nodded. "It has been a long time has it not Takara." I grinned back as I agreed.

Lee's definitely changed since we were kids. He now had to bowl cut, which I was not exactly pleased to see but oh well. Although I have a suspicion as to why he got it. He is also a lot taller than me now and I can see the muscles that he's gained from his training over these years. Heck at this point I'm a little worried if I ever had to go up against him in a fight whether I'd win or not.

"Hey I thought you said we shouldn't cause a scene, Lee," I noticed Lee's team behind him, looking slightly peeved he made another scene. A guy who is a Hyuga it appears and the girl with hair buns from earlier.

He briefly apologized to his team before introducing me to them. "Comrades, this is Gushikan Takara, my rival since childhood!" He said with fiery passion. He then introduced girl, Tenten, and the guy, Neji. The names sound familiar but I act as though it is all new.

"Lee, this is my team, Uchiha Sasuke and Uzumaki Naruto." I introduced kindly. "Guys, this is my first devoted fan, Rock Lee." My friends looked confused but Lee blushed and started to laugh. We reminisced about our childhood spar slightly before I notice how Lee stared at Sasuke. Like he wanted a fight. It seemed strange since I always assumed he more of a pacifist but I guess you can't judge a book by its cover.

I chatted with Lee only momentarily before saying good luck and then bidding him farewell. It also appears that Kotetsu and Izumo left since their cover was blown.

Sasuke, Naruto, and I started back on our original objective of starting the exam. However it seemed Lee wanted to delay us more.

As we got to the staircase Lee popped back up, this time demanding a fight with Sasuke. Apparently Sasuke is a good fight because he is from a genius clan.

I huffed at Lee's request and crossed my arms. "Lee, let's not get ahead of ourselves. Why not have your match after the exam? We really need to sign in." I attempted to reason. But Lee didn't seem to be listening to me.

"No use." Conscience suddenly spoke out. "Lee won't have anymore matches for a long time after the exam. Let him have his fun."

My blood ran cold and I shut up completely. I desperately asked what would happen to him but I got no more answers. I hate being in the dark.

As Sasuke started to step up to fight Naruto spoke out.

"Wait! It's all Sasuke Sasuke Sasuke! I'm strong too! I'll fight you!" Naruto blurted.

I also tried to stop him saying wasn't his fight but surprisingly Naruto ignored me. I frowned.

Lee tried to refuse but Naruto wouldn't have it. He just charged Lee. However I quickly became amazed at how far Lee has come. He can see the in between moves. At least that's what I call them. It's more of a master of taijutsu skill. Mentally being able to comprehend what going on around you faster than your attacker. Essentially being able to step around attacks. It's not surprise Lee won in only a few seconds. He only had to disturbed Naruto's balance.

"Lee, you're amazing!" I gasped truly in shock.

Lee just grinned more, enjoying my praise. "I have improved greatly since we were children Takara."

Sasuke quickly agreed to the fight once Lee said he was the strongest genin in the Leaf village. I already figured he would accept but now he's pumped for it. I couldn't help but smirk. Now I want to fight Lee too. But I realize it for another day... hopefully.

"Hey Sasuke." He turned to look at me. "Lose quickly ok? We are running out of time."

Sasuke scowled at me before going at Lee. Sasuke moves quick naturally but Lee has kind of a superior speed as he is able to confuse and whip around Sasuke.

After Lees well placed leaf hurricane I couldn't help but snort in amusement. He knows Sasuke doesn't know he has no chakra, so he's using it to his advantage. If anything he sure has gotten smarter as well.

My eyes drifted back to Sasuke as he picks himself off the ground. I could help but snort again. Sharingan. Unfortunately that won't help much against a taijutsu master. I debated briefly of whether or not I should tell him. But... he must learn on his own. Sharingan won't make you invincible as much as Akumugan won't make me invincible.

I was instantly proven correct as Sasuke was hit sky high. Lee then explain why the Sharingan wouldn't work. Lee's come so far. I'm almost proud.

But my smile quickly turned to a mortified grimace as I noticed Lee's next move.

As flings Sasuke into air he floats behind him with his bandages unwrapped. That's clear sign of the front lotus. A move I always considered needing to much set up. After all you need wrapped arms for it and a very specific situation for it to work. That's why I stick to swords. The danger is that the jutsu can actually hurt someone badly if performed correctly. Someone like Sasuke.

"Lee stop!" I yelled out, making him falter and just as he does a paper windmill pins his bandages to the wall.

I spun around to see a tortoise. A talking tortoise. Mildly befuddled I quickly assume it must be a summon.

I glanced back to Sasuke but was shocked to find he was falling incorrectly. If he hits the ground like that he could break his clavicle. I give a small burst of speed as I catch Sasukes head and torso from crunching into the ground. I shudder at the pain in my hands but ignore it otherwise.

"Takara what's going on?" Naruto muttered as he limped over to Sasuke and me.

"Well Sasuke lost, Lee's being scolded for using a hidden technique probably, and the tortoise is a summon most likely."

Naruto looked shocked. "A turtle can't be a teacher."

I look at him tiredly for a moment before I stand up and hit him over the head.

"You ok Sasuke?" I said quietly while I turn away from the tearing up Naruto.

He says nothing while he glares at Lee from the ground.

I sigh as I gripped Sasuke by the arm and yanked him to his feet while he glared at me.

"Have some dignity. You lost but you lost to a really good competitor. You're just making yourself look bad when you get all angry. So stand up straight." I said as I patted the dust off him and then rose an eyebrow at him. His glare turned into a light frown as he huffed and look back to Lee calmly.

I turn as well to Lee. He was still being scolded by the tortoise.

"If you are prepared then Gai Sensei come fourth!" The Tortoise yelled out in his gravely voice. Lee just nodded sadly.

A giant puff of smoke washed over the area as a figure appeared. Striking a pose.

Almost instantly the mood changed. I internally cringed at Gai sensei and Lee's reaction to one another. I look to my friends and... well their faces said it all. Gai Sensei is scarily intense.

"I've- I've never seen such an intense bowl cut and eyebrows." Naruto practically word vomited.

Lee snapped as he turned around with rage in his eyes. "Hey! Don't you dare mock Gai Sensei!"

Naruto started to yell back at him but I quickly slapped a hand over his mouth and pinched his arm to shut him up.

"I'm sorry for my companion, he is a bit dense. Not to mention has bad people skills, right?" I said as I glared at Naruto who had a flicker of fear cross his face before nodding.

"Hello Gai Sensei, it's been many years since I've seen you as well." I called out kindly to the man. He gave me a sparkling grin before he called back.

"Oh it's Gushikan-chan, long time no see. How is your father?"

I replied that he was fine before releasing Naruto.

"Oi Lee." Gai Sensei said seriously.

Lee looked to Gai like a sad puppy that got caught chewing on some shoes. "Yes sir.."

Gai winded up and then punched Lee once across the face. Lee fell, hitting the ground hard.

Naruto and Sasuke looked extremely shocked while I just looked of mildly disturbed. "Ouch." I mumbled.

Lee lay twitching on the ground as Gai walked up to him before getting on one knee.

I started to rub my eyes. Weirdly enough it seems the background has changed into a beach.

"Lee" Gai Sensei said with tears rolling down his face.

"Se-Sensei." Lee stuttered, tears also beginning to pour.

Gai Sensei cut him off and I looked around wildly for the music that suddenly started to pour into the scene.

I looked back to the two to see Lee dive into Gai's arms while they chant each other's names.

I have never appreciated my relationship with my father so much until right now. Crying while hugging during a sunset while provocative music playing is not my thing.

As quickly as it came the sunset faded and my hallucination ended. Although the hugging and the crying stayed. Yeah that was real. Also the tortoise is crying too.

I rub my head which is aching. What a weird day.

Anyway, it seems Gai has forgiven Lee's mistake. However his punishment is to run laps around the setting sun? Huh so it's a group hallucination. Great.

"What a minute, we were talking!" Naruto yelled out.

"Also the exam." I mentioned.

Gai laughed as he remember and explained Lee will continue with his punishment afterward.

"So Taka, that's a summon?" Naruto asked me pointing to the tortoise.

I nodded. "Ya we as ninjas can sign contracts with animals from... well another plain of existence. That way when we are in trouble we can pop them over for help."

He still looked confused but before I could go into more detail Gai cut me off.

"How's Kakashi?" He asked tentatively.

"You know Kakashi Sensei?" Sasuke inquired.

Gai laughed and he stated he knew him all too well. In fact they were eternal rivals. In fact squared Gai is stronger that Kakashi.

To prove that to us he body flickered behind us. Startling the guys.

"See how amazing he is!" Lee exclaimed, practically stars in his eyes.

Gai seemed very proud of himself as he told us we better check in for the exam. He broke the long forgotten pinwheel that bound Lee's bandage to the wall and Lee started to recover his hands.

Thus Gai and the tortoise disappeared.

"Hey Sasuke, " Lee said getting our attention once more. "Just one more thing. I'm sorry I lied to get you to fight me. I'm not the strongest Genin in the Leaf Village. That title falls to my teammate. I'm entering to defeat this person. However, you remain one of my targets, Sasuke." Lee looks over to me. "And you as well Takara. I hope to get the chance to spar you."

I blinked at him before smiling, "And I you Lee. Good luck."

Lee wished us the same before jumping on ahead of us.

I looked to Sasuke and noticed his clenched fist.

"Didn't I tell you to stop brooding." I crossed my arms. "Everyone loses from time to time. It's nothing to cry about."

Naruto snorts, "This just proves the Uchiha clan isn't so great."

I turned to Naruto and pinched his cheek. "Stop that. You did worse than he did."

"I'll knock him flat next time." Sasuke grumbled, revenge thick in his voice.

I release Naruto and flicked Sasuke on the headband. Surprisingly it seemed to stun Sasuke as he looked startled.

"It's good to have goals but if you only focus on that you'll miss the important stuff. Like perhaps..." I pretend to be thinking. "The exam? Now get your butt in gear. Let's go." I grab my friends my the hands and pull them along up the stairs.

"Sasuke you saw his hand right?" Naruto blurted as we walked.

Sasuke avoided our eyes.

"Bushy-brow worked day after day, night after night. More than you have."

I freeze as I release their hands and then pinch Narutos arm one last time.

"Don't you dare call him that! How would you like it if I called you whisker cheeks!"

Naruto looked startled as he muttered he wouldn't do it again.

I turned back to Sasuke as I heard him chuckle. "This is just getting more interesting, come on Takara, Naruto."

I roll my eyes as we continued onward to the door.

Once we got there the familiar face of Kakashi met us.

He looked at us before smiling under his mask. "I'm glad to see you all here and of your own free will. Sasuke. Naruto. Takara. I'm proud of you all. Now go out there." He said simply moving to the side.

I looked to my teammates and grinned as I opened the doors and stepped into the bright light. Low and behold there was a massive amount of teams waiting for us. I could sense their blood lust. For but a tense moment the three of us stood there with the entire room giving us the stink eye. Thankfully a cheerful familiar voice cut through the silence.

"Hey Sasuke, Takara, you guys are late!" Ino appeared and then wrapped herself around Sasuke. "Wow Sasuke, I've been waiting for you forever. Your good looks are all I need."

I snort, "Classy Ino, classy." She stuck her tongue out at me.

"Oh wow I didn't realize you guys were going to be here." A monotone voice interjected.

I peered around Ino to see Shikamaru and Choji. My face lit up as I walked over to them and greeted them.

"Hey it's been a long time. How's it hanging?" I greeted, Naruto soon following after me.

"Well well looks like everyone made it."

I spun on my heels and smirked. "Oi it's the little puppy, oh and Akumaru is here too." I teased as Akamaru jumped off Kibas head and into my arms.

I turned my attention to the fidgety girl behind him. My smirk turned into a small smile as I greeted the shy Hyuga. Then I looked up to Shino and greeted him. I've never been close to the two. Shino and Hinata always kept to themselves so I never tried to force a friendship on them.

I stood in the center of the crowd enjoying being able to talk to all my friends. We bantered back and forth a bit before the mood changed. And over a bug too.

Choji had taken a step forward to talk to me when Shino put himself between us.

"Uh what?" Choji said, his tone sharper than usual. Sometimes I forget Choji is only nice and calm around me because we're friends. Otherwise he can be just as cruel and sharp as any other ninja.

"Didn't want you to step on it." Shino responded. His tone stiff as well.

Upon closer inspection I could see a small bug traveling past Shino.

The silence was unnerving before Choji finally responded. "What? You gonna eat it?"

I stifled as coughing laugh as the silence continues. I quietly hand Akamaru back to Kiba to keep him safe from the two mad preteens.

"Hey guys." A new voice calls out making us all look up.

From that point on I stopped listening to the conversation. As far as I was concerned there was only me and this guy.

My palms got sweaty, my heart rate increase, and a blooming of red crossed my face.

All of these are symptoms of what my mother called love. However, I can assure you I feel no love. Passion yes, love hell no.

"Kill him." My conscience hissed making me feel cold. "Kill him now before he sets everything off."

I could feel my hand drifting up to the hilt of my katana.

But then I stopped. All the sudden my reason returned.

"I can't kill him. I'll go to prison. My life will be over." I thought, alarmed I was actually going to kill a random guy.

"You don't understand! You don't know what I know! That guy is going to be the death of many! If we kill him now it will save lives!" My conscience sputtered.

I frowned, "I don't want my life to be over so I won't kill him." I though with vigor. "What if you're wrong!"

"I've haven't been yet." My conscience argued but I ignored it.

Why can't my conscience act like everyone else's. A simple devil and angel on a shoulder rather than a bossy disembodied voice.

"Look, this man is a very bad man! This might be our only opportunity." Conscience tried to reason but I would have it.

"I can't throw away my life to kill a guy who hasn't committed a crime yet." I stated. Conscious tried to tell me otherwise but I refused.

I probably could had spent an hour more arguing with myself but Naruto's voice broke my internal monologue.

"Hey! My name is Uzumaki Naruto and I'm going to beat you all up!"

I looked startled as I saw him pointing to the crowd of seething Genin. What the hell did I miss?

"Naruto, stop making us enemies." I spoke out as I crossed my arms.

"Oh your back to reality Taka?" Naruto said with a suspicious grin.

"What?" I questioned but he ignored it.

I made eye contact with... what was his name? Kabuto? But it only lasted a second as both of our eyes drifted to the crowd. A group was moving.

A guy with a sound headband jumped above us and pushed Kabuto back with throwing kunai. Then a second guy appeared a threw a punch. Kabuto was able to lean back making it too shallow but curiously his glasses broke.

I furrowed my brow but it all came together as Kabutos eyes widened before he vomited. Naruto ran to help him up but I stood still staring at the sound ninjas arm. It was only a second but in the fight I had seen a metal contraption on his arm. Could it be some new ninja tech?

The silence broke as a puff of smoke floated into the room.

"All right you degenerates! Shut up and listen!"

As the smoke cleared a familiar face appeared making me grin but simultaneously shiver.

"I'm Morino Ibiki, proctor for the first test of the Chunin Exam. At this moment I am your enemy."

Oh Ibiki what an intimidating man.

"Firstly, you Hidden Sound team, knock it off or you'll be disqualified!" He roared making some people near him flinch.

"Sorry, guess we're a bit jumpy." One of the sound ninjas said.

Ibiki had a brief look of amusement on his face before continuing. "Listen because I'm only saying it once! Any combat without the permission of the proctors will lead to disqualification. Even with permission to fight the use of fatal force is strictly prohibited. Anyone who even thinks about messing with me will be disqualified. Got it?"

I squeezed my hands into fists. "Alright, no death. You hear that conscience?"

There was a pause before it responded. "I don't think you understand. There will be death. And, because of you, nothing will change." I frowned.

"Now if we are ready we will proceed to the first part of the Chunin Exam. Handover your paperwork and you will receive the one number card in exchange. This number will determine the seat you'll sit in for the written portion. Once you are all sitting we will proceed."

I nodded and cleared my head. No need for distractions. I need my A game right now.

"Wait what? Written portion?" I look over to Naruto who starts to scream NO. I make eye contact with Sasuke and we both sigh before I wrench Naruto up and drag him over to get our numbers.

I got 73 and was forced towards the back. I could see both Naruto and Sasuke from my spot.

"All right there few rules you need to be aware of for this test. There will be no questions so listen well." Ibiki yelled.

My eyes drifted around the room before I turned to stretch my back. I looked at who was directly behind me and smiled at Lee. My attention was brought back to Ibiki.

"Rule number one, you are given 10 points each from the start and your points would be deducted if you are incorrect on any problem. So if you miss three, your final score will be seven."

I nodded as I twirled a pencil in my hand.

"Rule number two, teams will pass and fail depending on the total points of the three person teams."

I took a deep breath and stared down Naruto's back. It should be fine right? Sasuke and I are pretty smart. We can carry Naruto's dead weight.

"Rule number three, the sentinels positioned around the room are here to watch you. They will mark down every single time they see you cheat. If they see you cheat five times you and your team will be forced to leave and you'll be disqualified from participating in the rest of this exam. If you want to be considered exceptional shinobi you need to act like exceptional shinobi."

"Hm." I hummed curiously. That's weird. Why give us five chances.

"One more thing, in case even one person on the team gets a complete zero and fails the test then everyone on that team will fail."

The newly sharpened pencil snapped in my hand as I glared at Naruto who sunk as far as he could in his seat. This is bad. Very bad.

"The final question won't be given out until 15 minutes are left of the testing time. You'll have one hour total. Begin!"

The sound of papers flipping filled the room.

I started to chew my lip as I read through each one.

I've always considered myself fairly bright but as I stared down at this paper I felt my soul leave my body.

"Okokok this isn't bad!" I tried to rationalize. "I know this math problem so there's one!" I grinned. My grin quickly died.

I struggled through all the problems one at a time. Putting something down for each one. However half of them were too complex for even me.

I started to sweat as I glance around the room and was thankful everyone else seemed just as scared. My eyes found Naruto again and he wasn't moving.

"Maybe he died when he saw the test. I wouldn't put it past him." I thought dryly.

I have to get these questions correct. Otherwise our team average score will be to low. I'm sure the guys are having just as much trouble as me. Shit if only I could check my answers... if only I could cheat.

I glance to my sentinel.

These cheating rules are pretty weird. It's almost as if they want us to cheat...

Well shit. That's it. They want us to cheat! To test our abilities to gather info. Man all I can hope it that everyone already figured it out. Now the question is how to?

I'm at a bit of a disadvantage here. My kekki genkai won't help me and neither will my katana. I chewed on my lip.

My headband isn't reflective enough to look at someone else's paper... I'm starting to run out of ideas. If I can't find a way to piggyback off someone else's cheating that'd be great.

I looked straight up exasperated. Then I coughed to cover my shock. There were mirrors at the center of the ceiling. I'm not sure what their purpose is but currently I could see one moving independently. I caught a glancing of light from a string attached to it and smiled. That's how it was being controlled.

Now if only I could see the reflection on it. It's just slightly off.

I manage a pretty stupid plan. The only way I figure I can get any information. However, as I reach up to untie my headband there is the distinct sound of metal hitting wood.

"Number 23 fail!"

Suddenly a rush of people were being called out as failed and I sat frozen. Wow that's incredibly intimidating. After all I'm not even confident in my cheating abilities here.

I wait for the first group of people to leave the room and let out a sigh. At least no one on my team has been caught. I have faith Sasuke won't mess up but Naruto might self destruct.

I frown at my own thoughts as I stare down at Naruto's crumpled form. Poor guy. This must be a nightmare for him.

I untied my headband from my arm and laid it in front of me. My sentinel definitely noticed but because he didn't know what I'm doing I don't think he can mark me yet.

I close my eyes, appalled at what I was going to do next but it's the only way to make the metal not dull. Not to mention at this angle I should get at least a hint of what the mirror is showing.

I brought the metal close to my mouth and licked it a few times before setting it on my desk. I shiver at the taste and the fact I know it's dirty. But, when I open my eyes, low and behold I could see a hint of the answers on the mirror.

I stared at it trying to un-code it for several minutes.

I got the briefest of hints but really it was a crap shoot.

I groan as I make adjustments to my paper. In reality this is a 6/9 so I really need that last point to just get a C.

I could hear my conscience cackle at me and I threw back some harsh language.

Just as I finished the verbal assault on my own conscience Ibiki piped up.

"Alright, with only fifteen minutes left, now it's time for the final question."

I stiffen as I stare down at the man. I will answer this correctly. I have to.

"However, with this question there are more rules."

I nodded, expecting something of this scale. This last question is the one that really matters after all.

Just as he was about to get into it the door to the room opened. Kankuro stood there extremely awkwardly as we all turned to look at him. What bad timing to return from the restroom.

Ibiki seemed to tease him a bit before telling him to sit down. As he and the sentinel walked past my row I found myself staring at the sentinel? Human? Huh I'm not sure that's a person.

I nodded impressed but turned my attention back to Ibiki.

"Firstly, all of you have option to not take the final question."

I flinch as Temari lost her shit. Saying "What if we don't take it then?"

"Then regardless of all your previous answers your score will be zero and you and your teammates will be dismissed. Simply, you fail."

The room began to chatter with "Of course we'll take the question then."

"You haven't let me finish. If you take the question and you fail, not only will you not be able to proceed in the exam. You will be banned from ever taking the Chunin Exam ever again."

Silence, dead silence as that sinks in.

"Am I good enough? I will surely shame my family if I never go past a Genin." I thought with worry, chewing my lip.

"Hey man this is bull! Plenty of people have taken the exam multiple times!" Kiba yelled from his spot. But, Ibiki just started to laugh.

"I didn't make the rules the previous years. I guess your just unlucky."

"But that doesn't make sense." I thought curiously. " The Village Hidden in Leaves may have the right to ban people of their own nation but not those of neighboring nations. That would be considered unethical. After all we could just fail all the other nations so that their ninjas never rise. This is ridiculous. Kiba may not know it but he's right. This is bull, this... this is part of the test."

My eyes widen with realization.

"Well you still don't have to take the question and can try again next year." Ibiki said with a smirk.

Ya alright this is a test.

I set my gaze on my teammates. They better not ruin this for me.

Then the wave of people not confident arrived. Multiple people started to raise their hands. I sat back and tried not to be bothered by it. We all work so hard to get here.

I continued staring down Naruto's back and for the second time today felt my blood freeze.

His hand began to twitch and he slowly started to raise it.

My heart sank but at the same time I became overcome with rage. Annoyed rage.

I gripped my eraser tightly and as Naruto's hand hit it's full height I stood up swiftly.

Before Naruto to call out to Ibiki I chucked the eraser with the strength of a Gushikan who's future was being jeopardized.

I hit the back of his hand so hand it flung downward and he shrieked like a little girl.

Now all eyes were on me as I stood still in throwing position.

Naruto gasped and and stood up. "What the hell Takara?! That hurt!"

I felt the patience I've built up for Naruto over the years suddenly drain from me as I flushed and clenched my fist.

"Shut up Naruto!"

He look shocked and hurt. I may tease him a lot but I never got sincerely pissed at him before. Not in a long time at least.

"You were raising your hand! That's such an insult to me!" I pointed at him and could feel the seeds up regret plant at this awkward situation we are in. Everyone's watching.

Naruto just gave me a befuddled look. "This isn't about you Takara. I was... I didn't even mean it!" He stuttered.

"Naruto, here's the thing about comrades, we pick up each other's slack and will make sure we always succeed! If you don't feel confident in your abilities you must remember that you have Sasuke and me to rely on. Even if you couldn't answer the final question then one of us could. So pull on your big boy pants, grit your teeth, and have confidence in us. Isn't not giving up your ninja way?"

The classroom was quiet as Naruto and I stared each other down. The awkward silence was almost to much for me to bear before Naruto reacted.

First it was a small sad smile but after a second it flashed into a grin.

"That's right. Because us in team seven never back down and don't run away! I'm sorry Takara, I'm not going to stop us from achieving our dreams!"

I cracked a smile back, "That was slightly redundant but I couldn't had put it better myself. How about it Sasuke, you ready?"

Our eye turned to the third teammate who look positively disgusted and confused by our outburst. From the sudden attention he was now getting he sighed, rolled his eyes, and half heartedly agreed. He can't fool me though. I saw his smile.

After a couple more seconds of Naruto and I standing we both awkwardly sat down. Ibiki continued to stare around the room but after a few minutes it became clear that no one else was going to leave.

Ibiki then cleared this throat and continued. "I like your determination. So for the first exam... you all pass!"

Dead quiet

"I knew it." I said with a grin but no one payed attention to me. I think everyone was just stunned.

"What are you talking about? What about the last question?" A girl yelled out.

Ibiki just laughed. "There never was such a question, the real importance of this exam was to test how well you can gather information. Using your teammates and personal assets to get information. In actuality the test you all took was way beyond your skill level so you'd be forced to cheat. There were even some people placed around the room who had the answers for you to cheat from."

A few people around the room rose their hands. Including the guy next to me. Man I should had just stared at his paper from the corner of my eyes.

"You see information is the most valuable thing on a battlefield. It can mean life and death for your comrades and nation."

Ibiki reaches up and undos his head scarf.

"You will always have to risk your life and fight for that information!"

He reveals his scarred head to the class. A gasp rang out from some of the more sensitive Genin. I just stared at his head sadly. I know all to well the scars torture brings. Not only had I seen Ibiki's head when I was younger but my mothers back had a resemblance to his head. It was long ago but I'll never forget that. Even when her voice and smell fade from my memory I'll never forget her back. Everyone in the T&I division has horrible scars.

"Not only must you protect the information you know but ensuring the information you get is accurate is essential. Otherwise the misinformation could lead to the mass death of your comrades."

"But what was the point of the last question?" A boy in the front timidly asked, hand shaking as he raised it up.

"It really was an unfair question wasn't it? It's the ability to risk everything, even your life, for the mission that could save your nation. That is the quality that is needed in a Chunin squad leader. Someone who is not willing to lose everything shouldn't be a squad leader."

He sighs with a smile as he readjusts his head scarf.

"I wish you all the best."

Naruto started jumping for joy and I sighed contently into my hands. Happy to be done with the first exam.

Ibiki then looked to the window, seriousness on his face for a brief second.

I followed in suit in time to see a ball smash through the window flinging glass in the first "splashzone" row of Genin.

Once inside the ball exploded to reveal...

"Heads up kiddos! No time to celebrate because I'm your next proctor! Mitarashi Anko! Ready for the second test? Let's go go go!" She yells throwing her fist into the air.

After a second Ibiki teases her and she talks back saying he's getting soft. That's she'll cut our number in half.

I just smile more from my desk. I haven't see Anko in months. Our relationship has become less than perfect since mom's death.

"Alright the second test starts first thing in the morning! Report to your squad leaders to find out where it will take place. Other than that you can head out!" Anko yelled waving all of us away.

I waited a minute for everyone to clear out. Naruto rushed me quickly but I explained I want to speak to Anko so he said he'd meet me for ramen, which I accepted.

After a bit I made my way to the front where Anko stood chatting to Ibiki. I didn't want to bother her so I stood the like a student not wanting to interrupt their teacher. Eventually Ibiki motioned to me so they moved over so I could join the conversation.

"Hey kid, Ibiki was just telling me about your outburst towards the end there." Anko said as she set a hand on my shoulders and grinned down at me.

"Hello Auntie Anko, yeah I just couldn't let my teammate take away what we have been working so hard for. I guess I was being really selfish." I gave a shrug and a half smile.

The air was stiff and Anko kinda stopped talking. Letting Ibiki and me take the reins.

"Wow I haven't seen you in a while, you've grown like a weed." Ibiki jabbed at me.

I smiled as we bantered a bit. After mom died Ibiki showed up at the memorial but stayed in contact with me a bit. I think he felt responsible for moms death. After all he was her "first mate" and it was part of his responsibilities to check the security systems every week.

I don't blame Ibiki at all. He, despite his looks, is a very truthful and genuine person. Whenever he sees me on the street he stops and we chat for a bit. He often asks when I'm going into the T&I division because he could use the help.

A few minutes pass and I notice Ankos hand slide off my shoulders and her slowly start to edge back to the windows.

"Anko?" I question. She stops like a deer in headlights. Ibiki just sighs and shakes my hand goodbye before leaving Anko and me.

Awkward smile, "How are you and your brother?" She says trying to make conversation.

"We're fine. I'm excited for the test tomorrow and Usagi's new medication is working really well so that's good! Dad.." Anko flinches. "Dads good too."

It no secret Anko and Dad hate each other. It started as a mild dislike but after mom died there was nothing to stop them from avoiding each other. But in turn I never see Anko. I'm not even sure Usagi could recognize Anko at this point.

I stare at her while she struggles to reply. I frown and my bluntness comes forth.

"Anko why do you hate my dad?"

She loses all color in her face. "Takara I don't want to speak ill of your dad."

I cross my arms. "No I'm sick of this. Why do you two hate each other. Don't beat around the bush, that doesn't help anyone."

Anko rolled her eyes, "You're just like your dad." She grumbles.

"Is that way you've taken to avoiding me and my brother?"

She stiffens, "Kami Takara is this really the time to do this."

"If not now then when? I'll never let this go. I'm too stubborn."

She groans.

"Well he hates me because I used to study under a guy who would turned out to be a terrorist. I don't anymore obviously but he was my squad leader. He did really horrible things."

I stared at her tiredly. I'd heard that before from dad himself.

"Ok who was he?"

She avoided my eyes. "Orochimaru."

"And you hate my dad because he doesn't trust you?" I pushed.

She nodded like a child.

"So why have you ignored me and Usa?" I responded. Anger threading my voice.

"It's just easier. I was hoping we'd never have this conversation too. You're so much like your dad, it's scary. I thought you wouldn't want me around. And Usagi... he look so much like her."

My shoulders sag as I stared.

"He's not her and he doesn't even know who you are because you avoid him... Anko."

She look up at me.

"Those are really crap reasons. You are or at least were family. As long at you're not a terrorist now I really don't care about your past. So I'll give you an option to think about. Either buck up and stop worrying about my parents or come over for dinner. Usagi would like to know the lady in the pictures is."

We stared at each other before I shrugged and said goodbye. Walking off to go have ramen with Naruto.

I sat at home pretty exhausted. Dad came downstairs after putting Usa to bed and collapsed on the couch.

"Ready for tomorrow? I won't give anything away but it's gonna be hellish." He grunted.

I nodded after my mental checklist. "I did some serious packing so I think I'm square."

After relaxing in silence I turned to dad who's eyes were trained on mom's picture on her shrine.

"Dad?"

He hummed.

"Who's Orochimaru?"

He didn't make a sound or move at all before his eyes glided to me.

"What do you want to know?" He ran a hand through his beard.

"Everything."

"Well let's get started. It's going to be a long night."

Authors note:

The next couple chapters should be pretty action packed so I hope you're ready!

As usual thank you for all of the support and I appreciate each and every one of you!

Haha finished this up a few before midnight and I need to wake up in a few hours to move! Yaaay(falls asleep).

Anywho, I'll try to get out the next chapter soon!

Reviews are appreciated but not required.

Thank you and have a nice day!

~ToL

P.s

I'm almost up to 50 favorites! Woowza! So I'm think about making a reward chapter for you guys. At that point I'll be at 50 favorites, over 50 followers, and over 10,000 views! What a milestone! So without further ado I'm asking you guys to comment a filler chapter you'd guys want. Maybe an alternate view of something or a non canon confession to another character. Something you guys would enjoy. I've been thinking about maybe a chapter on Takaras parents meeting, you know a little more history on the family too. So comment what you'd like to see(or pm me)! I can't do all of them but if this gets a good response then maybe I'll make a mini series on the side! Thank you and I'm eager to see what you guys think of!