Naruto reimagined: Minato and Kushina raise Naruto

by ShadowofFire93

What if Minato and Kushina didn't die in the Kyubi incident? Minato is presented with a way to save both Naruto and Kushina without sacrificing himself in the process. The events from now on will take a different path.

17. Chapter 17: Forest of Death, Part II

Chapter 17: Chunin Exams: Forest of Death, Part II

With Teams Seven and Ten

– Show me how strong you all are! The children of Yondaime Hokage and his counselors – said the kunoichi pointing at Team Seven – and the students of all mighty Shinobi no Kami! – she said while pointing at Team Ten. The six rookies jumped back – This is not good – said Choji – no Kidding – said Naruto.

Teams Seven and Ten took a fighting position. Choji took his bo staff while Shikamaru took his wakizashi swords, holding the one in his left hand with a reverse grip. Ino kept her arm blade hidden and took some senbons. Sasuke held Itachi's sword; Naruto had his hand ready on his wooden box, and Hinata took the Hyuga's defensive position. Orochimaru chuckled – So brave! Tell me, which of you wants to be the first to die? – said the sannin as he gave them a deathly look. The six rookies' eyes went pale, and a deathly shiver went through their spine.

The Kusa-nin thrust forward faster than they could react to, punching Sasuke in the stomach and side-kicking Naruto, sending him away. Naruto clashed against Ino, making her collapse. The Kusa-nin took Sasuke's sword and dashed forward toward Team Ten. Choji stood before Shikamaru to protect him, trying to block the woman with his bo staff to no value. The Kusa-nin broke his defense with ease and sliced Choji's throat. Blood poured down uncontrollably. The Akimichi boy fell to his knees and put his hands to his throat, trying to stop the bleeding before collapsing and giving his last breath, choking with his blood. Ino and Shikamaru yelled in horror. Tears pouring down. Ino and Naruto stood up.

Shikamaru stared at the body of his friend as the puddle of blood continued expanding. He frowned and charged at the Kusa-nin, driven by rage. The Kusa-nin laughed and dodged, jumping and landing behind Hinata. She was faster than any of them could imagine. The Kusa-nin pierced Hinata's chest barehand. Her hand came out of Hinata's chest, holding her heart. Sasuke, Ino, Shikamaru and Naruto stared in pure terror as the woman crushed Hinata's heart. She pushed Hinata's body forward with the butt end of Sasuke's sword. Sasuke caught his teammate as her distinctive white eyes closed forever. The Kusa-nin kicked Sasuke, who held Hinata's body, out of her way as she dashed forward toward Shikamaru, who was running in her direction to face her. Using Sasuke's sword, she unarmed Shikamaru's right hand and cut off his left arm. Shikamaru yelled in pain as the blood poured down from his severed arm, but his voice was quickly muted as he was beheaded. Shikamaru's head fell off and rolled over to Sasuke's side. The Kusa-nin wasted no time and vanished to appear behind Ino and Naruto. She pierced the sword through Ino's nape, coming out from her mouth – Na-ru-to – she muttered.

Naruto's face was covered in Ino's blood. He was trembling, unable to move. Ino fell front as the Kusa-nin removed Sasuke's sword from her skull – You son of – Naruto's voice was shut when the Kusa-nin grabbed him by his neck and lifted him. Naruto tried to free himself but failed to do so. The Kusa-nin broke Naruto's neck and let go of him, making the blond's corpse fall with a loud thump. Sasuke was on the floor, still holding Hinata's body. He started trembling when the Kusa-nin walked toward him at a slow pace. He wanted to run away, but his body wouldn't move. He looked up to meet her eyes, and he felt his own sword piercing his chest slowly. He felt his heartbeat getting faster for a second and then slower at every beat. He felt numb, and his eyes started to close until everything turned pitch dark.

Sasuke opened his eyes and fell to his knees, throwing up. He was breathing heavily. He turned around and saw Hinata had dropped to her side and had tears in her eyes. Sasuke noticed she had her right hand on her chest, making sure her heart was still in place. Naruto was breathing heavily and sweating cold. He was almost as pale as the weird genin they met the day before, Sai. He saw Ino on her knees, covering her mouth as tears slipped down her cheeks. Choji was hyperventilating. He was holding his neck while he tried to control his breathing. Shikamaru had fallen on his back, fear in his eyes, sweat pouring down his forehead – What was that? An illusion? Our future? – muttered Sasuke, trying to control his breathing. The Kusa-nin laughed – Paralyzed already? I haven't even started! – she said as she started walking toward them – snap out of it! We need to retreat – yelled Sasuke, but his friends were terrified, as he was. His body reflected his fear despite his effort to cool down. Naruto chuckled as he tried poorly to control his shaking and stood up – I'm not planning on dying here, you creepy bastard! – Sasuke smirked and stood up, too. Followed by Shikamaru, Hinata, Choji and Ino. The six genins were trembling and sweating. The Kusa-nin chuckled – We're absolutely going to die here, but I'd rather die fighting – said Choji, rubbing his neck – There is something odd with this kunoichi. She's way too strong for any genin – said Shikamaru as he retook his swords. Everyone nodded. Team Seven couldn't conceive the idea a simple genin was more terrifying than Zabuza and Haku. She was no ordinary shinobi.

Orochimaru waved some hand seals – Futon: Daitoppa! – he took a deep breath inflating his chest then exhaled a powerful gust. Naruto's Daitoppa was a gentle breeze compared to Orochimaru's. Shikamaru and Sasuke pierced their swords on the ground to resist the gale force. Ino and Hinata, on the other hand, were blown away. Choji used his partial multi-size technique to enlarge his arm and hand holding his bo staff. Ino and Hinata got ahold of the staff ends. Hinata noticed Choji's feet were covered by rocks. He had used a Doton jutsu to bound himself to the ground – Do not let go! – said Choji. Naruto waved the same hand seals and launched his own Daitoppa. It was not strong enough to counteract Orochimaru's, but it was enough to deflect the gale around him, keeping him safe. Orochimaru stopped his jutsu, chuckling. Choji put down Hinata and Ino and undid his multi-size jutsu. Shikamaru and Sasuke stood up – Not bad – said Orochimaru as he ran forward. The six rookies embraced themselves – Orochimaru passed Shikamaru and Sasuke without any effort and went head-on for Choji, Hinata and Ino. Choji took his bo staff and thrust forward as Naruto approached the disguised Sannin from the left, and Sasuke and Shikamaru chased from behind. Orochimaru launched a punch that Choji blocked with his staff but the force in the punch was more than Choji could resist – a bo staff, huh? Are you trying to imitate your decrepit sensei's style? – Orochimaru mocked. Choji frowned and pushed forward as Naruto reached from the side with his kunai.

The Kusa-nin dodged Naruto as she bent over backwards with a flexibility that didn't seem human. Sasuke and Shikamaru jumped, swords in hands, and were aiming to impale her on the ground. She laughed as she extended her hands – Sen'ei Jashu! (Hidden Shadow Snake Hands) – several snakes emerged from her sleeves. Sasuke and Shikamaru were taken by surprise midair by the jutsu, however, they reacted in time, waving their swords they beheaded most of the snakes, but one curled on each's feet – damn it! – both yelled as they tried to free themselves from the snakes that curled around their feet. Choji jumped to the side to free the path as Hinata punched the air – Hakke Kusho! – the Kusa-nin's lower body turned into a snake tail. She slithered at high speed to dodge the vacuum palm as she pulled her arms, and the snakes trapping the Uchiha and Nara boys, down with such strength that when they hit the ground, small craters formed.

Ino pulled her sleeve and aimed at the woman as she slithered toward Naruto, who quickly pulled a scroll from his wooden box. Ino started releasing the senbons from her vambrace, but the woman was too fast, and none hit the target. Naruto opened the scroll and extended it before him. At the center of the scroll and the sealing formula were two circles, one with the kanji for "fire" and the other for "wind." The woman was right before Naruto. She approached really fast. She extended her hand, aiming to grab him by the neck and ignoring Naruto's scroll. Naruto smirked – Kai! (release) – the two kanjis lighted up, releasing a fireball and a strong gust. The futon and katon techniques merged, increasing the power of the katon. The kunoichi was too close to dodge. She was engulfed by the wildfire. She screamed in pain. The six genins saw how the woman burnt, relieved it was over. When the flames extinguished, they saw the woman's body still standing. The skin and clothes were black as charcoal – Take that, you freak! – said Naruto, but the excitement didn't last – Naruto! Behind you! – Hinata yelled. The burnt body of the Kusa-nin turned into mud and collapsed as the Kusa-nin emerged from behind Naruto – I'm impressed with your sealing techniques, Naruto-kun. You're your mother's son, after all – Naruto shivered and turned around as he pulled a kunai and aimed at the kunoichi. She laughed as she stopped the kunai with her bare hand, letting the kunai pierce it and holding Naruto's fist. She didn't even flinch

Ino saw this as her opportunity. She pulled her hands together, making the sign for her clan's secret technique and aimed at the Kusa-nin – Shintenshin no Jutsu! (mind-body switch technique) – Ino's eyes closed and fell, but Choji caught her – Ino! – Hinata and Sasuke yelled – She's fine – said Shikamaru, still pained by the fall. But something was wrong, Ino was sweating, and her eyes, although closed, showed fear – Shikamaru, something's wrong – Choji said, scared. He was holding his teammate; she had never reacted this way when using her jutsu. Shikamaru rushed next to them. Team Seven didn't understand what was happening, but the Kusa-nin suddenly stopped moving – Ino! – Shikamaru and Choji yelled. It was as if Ino was having a nightmare... a horrible nightmare. Both boys from team 10 felt a shiver as they heard the Kusa-nin laughing, and then Ino woke up abruptly. She was trembling – Are you okay? – Choji asked. Ino turned to see the Kusa-nin, who had tightened her grip on Naruto's fist again. She stuttered as she spoke – She's a monster. I… I was trapped inside her mind. I had no control… She… there is something unnatural about her. We're all going to die… - The blonde said as she started crying again. She was breathing heavily. Had the Kusa-nin trapped her in another genjutsu showing her their deaths like before? Shikamaru wondered. The other five genins gulped. The Kusa-nin laughed again – You should be grateful this is not my real body, girl. Otherwise, you would've died the moment you peeked into my mind. I shall praise you for entering my mind, even if it was through this weak, mediocre body – said the Kusa-nin as she curled her abnormally long tongue and chuckled. Naruto gulped. Sasuke and Hinata wanted to run to help Naruto, but they couldn't be so reckless against that woman.

Shikamaru looked around. Ino was out of combat. She was too terrified to continue, but she could still help them with her sensor abilities. Whoever that kunoichi was, she was formidable. Shikamaru waved some hand seals – Kagemane no Jutsu! – Shikamaru's shadow turned darker and extended toward Naruto and the kunoichi. Choji helped Ino sit on the ground, then took his bo staff and launched forward. Sasuke activated his Sharingan, held his sword and followed – How annoying – said the woman as she dislocated Naruto's shoulder and sent him away with an arcing kick. Sasuke knew that wouldn't stop his friend. He continued to pursue the kunoichi with Choji while Shikamaru chased her with his shadow. The dense forest provided him with enough shadows to increase his range. The kunoichi had no place to run where he couldn't follow – Ino, snap out of it. You and Hinata keep track of her. Let us know of any sudden movements and cover our backs. We'll deal with her – Hinata nodded. Ino was still sobbing. Hinata extended her hand to the blonde – You've got this, Ino. They're counting on us – said the white-eyed girl. Ino cleansed the tears from her face and focused on sensing the chakra of the kunoichi.

Naruto stood up and saw how his friends chased after the Kusa-nin. He needed to join them. He knew by the expression on the Kusa-nin that she was just fooling around. Running away was not an option, with all the might the Kusa-nin had shown so far, she could've killed them if she wanted to. Shikamaru and the others knew it, too. They had to take advantage of the fact that the kunoichi was playing around and find an opening. Luckily, they had Shikamaru with them, if someone could pull something out to achieve it, it was him. He thought about Team Eight. The other two Kusa-nin were after them. He could only hope Team Eight had been able to escape from the other two Kusa-nin. Naruto tensed his jaw as he pulled his shoulder back in place repressing a scream. They needed to end this so they could go and help their friends.

Orochimaru gritted his teeth. He was tired of dodging Shikamaru's kagemane technique. He wasn't sure he could break free of it through this possessed body. He could feel the body starting to fail. His chakra was too strong for the host. He looked down at his necklace. The pink crystal's shine started to wither. He wanted to have more fun with these six. He waved some hand seals as he dodged Sasuke, Choji, Naruto and Shikamaru's shadow. The genins frowned at it. She was able to wave seals even as they pressed her. The Kusa-nin turned toward Shikamaru, Hinata and Ino – Katon: Tengoku no Hono! (heavenly blaze) – the kunoichi exhaled a powerful fire stream. Shikamaru broke his kagemane no jutsu. All the genins were impressed by the Katon Technique. It was too wide to dodge. Sasuke, Choji and Naruto looked in awe at the fire stream approaching their friends – This can't be – said Hina, in shock. Ino closed her eyes, accepting her end. After seeing inside that kunoichi's mind, she knew a death by fire would be better than all the torture she could suffer in her hands. But Shikamaru was not willing to die without a fight. He quickly waved some hand seals – Doton: Doryuheki! – Shikamaru squatted and placed his hands on the ground. A wall of earth rose to shield him and his friends. However, the Katon jutsu was stronger than his wall. The earth wall shattered to pieces – Suiton: Mizurappa! – Hinata spat a water stream all over to cover herself and her friends in water as the fire broke through the earth wall. Debris from the wall hit Shikamaru on his stomach, making him spit blood. The flames surrounded the three genins.

Naruto, Sasuke and Choji exhaled with relief when the fire perished and saw their friends alive. However, they had several burns on their bodies. Ino seemed to be unconscious. Sasuke charged at the kunoichi first. She chuckled. She was about to dodge, but the body failed to move. She was stabbed in her side by Sasuke's sword. Sasuke smirked as he dodged the kunoichi's fist. She jumped back and landed on a tree, losing balance immediately as the tree started to fall. She looked down and noticed that Choji, with both arms enlarged thanks to his partial multi-size jutsu, had ripped the tree log apart. She tried to dodge the incoming Naruto, kunai in hand, but her body didn't respond in time again. She cursed as Naruto pierced his kunai on her stomach. She punched Naruto in the face and pulled the kunai she had been stabbed with – Stupids Rinji and Gozu. They chose a weak body for me to possess – muttered to herself as she slithered through the log of another tree and landed on a branch.

The genins looked at her; she was breathing heavily, and she was now having a hard time keeping up with them. They found it odd. The woman pulled a vial with blood from her pouch – I shall let my pets have fun with you until I get a new vessel – said the Kusa-nin as she opened it and emptied the blood on her palm. She then waved hand seals – Kuchiyose no Jutsu! – a cloud of smoke formed, and when it dissipated, three enormous light brown snakes stood before them. There was a fourth snake, smaller than the other three but big as a python, next to the Kusa-nin on the branch – This shall keep you entertained until I get a replacement – the kunoichi said as the three snakes charged at them. The fourth one slithered away quickly. They wondered where it had gone. The Kusa-nin stood atop the branch, catching her breath.

With Team Eight

Team Eight was running through the forest toward the Tower at the center of it. Each of them was carrying one of the Oto-nins, which made them go slower than they normally would – Damn it! – Kiba cursed as he stopped abruptly. He knew there was no point in keeping going. Shino and Sakura stopped as well. The three genins dropped the unconscious Oto-nins without any care and turned around to meet their persecutors. Akamaru immediately started barking at the two men standing before them – What a nuisance. Can I kill it now, Rinji? – asked the bald man – We'll kill them all, Gozu – replied the one with the mask. Shino's swarm of insects emerged fiercely from his sleeves – an Aburame, huh? This shall be fun – said the man of the mask as he removed his mask and robes, revealing a completely different man. The bald man did the same.

One of them, Rinji, was an olive-skinned fit shinobi with dark brown hair and back eyes. He wore a purple loose-fitting vest that showed his chest, a light blue poncho around his neck, black wrist warmers and tan pants. His abdomen was covered with bandages. The other, Gozu, was a larger and taller light-skinned man with short slicked combed back brown hair and no eyebrows. His teeth were sharped. He wore a light-brown sleeveless shirt, with military green pants. Both wore Otogakure's headbands. They were more of Orochimaru minions. They must've killed and replaced the real Kusa-nins to infilter the exam, Shino assumed – Surrender those genins and We'll give you a quick dead – said the shorter man said. Sakura gulped. She knew they were in disadvantage even if they were three against two. They were tired from their previous fights and had been running carrying the Oto-nins for too long. Besides, these two were older and more experienced shinobis. She bit her lip as she wondered if it had been a good idea trying to interrogate the Oto-nins themselves. If their senseis hadn't told them anything was for a good reason. They had been really stupid to believe they could do something about it. It was too late for regrets, she told herself and prepared herself for battle.

Shino's bugs dashed forward at full speed. Meanwhile, Akamaru became a Kiba clone – We better do this quickly, pal. I don't have much chakra left – said Kiba as he went all in fours. Shino's bugs aimed for both shinobis. Rinji dodged Shino's bugs and formed a hand seal. Nothing happened. Shino and Sakura frowned. Shino's bugs continued chasing him – That was lame. What kind of useless jutsu was that? – Kiba mocked after Rinji's jutsu did nothing. Gozu, unlike Rinji, didn't bother to dodge. He let himself be surrounded by the insects. The bugs attached to him all over his body until every inch was covered – It looks like that one is slow and dumb. This will be easier than I thought – said Kiba as he and Akamaru prepared to attack. Shino gasped and stepped forward, disturbed, as he saw his insects being consumed by the man's body. Gozu's body had turned completely into mud, trapping and engulfing the insects in his own body – I hate bugs – said the large man as he flexed his shoulders – a mud-clone? – Shino muttered – No if he were a clone, my bugs would've drained its chakra and broken the jutsu. This must be a kind of jutsu that turns his body into mud – Shino concluded. Rinji, still dodging the swarm of bugs, laughed – Stop playing around, Gozu – The man turned to see his teammate running from the bugs and, with an expressionless face, said – You're the one to talk, Rinji – the large man turned to face Team Eight and put his hands together – Sakura! – Shino yelled. Sakura quickly waved some hand seals – Sakura no Hanabira Bakuhatsu! (Explosion of cherry blossom petals) – a vast cloud of cherry blossom petals appeared all over the area. The cloud of petals was so dense that Gozu and Rinji couldn't see the genins. Rinji jumped upward to the tree branches, out of the petals cloud. He gritted his teeth as he saw Shino's swarm continue following him. Gozu looked around, calmed and relaxed, looking for the genins and waiting for them to attack. The attack came soon enough – Gatsuga! – Kiba and Akamaru used their Passing Fang, two rotating drills, to stampede over Gozu.

Kiba felt an odd feeling when he hit Gozu. He and Akamaru made contact, but instead of pushing, they passed through his body. It felt like getting into a mud pit. Gozu's body splashed all over and quickly returned to its form. Kiba and Akamaru were covered in mud – What the hell was that? – Kiba asked, dumbfounded, but he had no time to react. Gozu thrust forward faster than expected for a man his size. Gozu hit Kiba and Akamaru-Kiba in the stomach – Physical attacks do not work on me, dog-boy – Gozu said. The man's expressionless face, deep eye sockets and sharp teeth gave the creeps to Kiba. Kiba growled in pain as he fell to his knees. Akamaru's transformation broke, and he turned into a puppy again. His legs were shaking. Shino and Sakura came forth in their aid. The two genins got into a taijutsu fight with Gozu. The cloud of petals made it hard for him to predict the movements of the genins. They landed strike after strike. However, their punches only caused mud to splash from his body – Oi, Gozu! They're almost here. Clear the area for my pets – Rinji yelled as he came to a stop of escaping from Shino's bugs.

Gozu put his hands together once more – Doton: Doro-dan! (mud shot) – Gozu's entire body, except his face, turned into mud. Mud projectiles were shot in every direction from his body. Sakura took Akamaru while Shino helped Kiba stand up and get to safety. One mud shot hit Shino's side as he jumped, with Kiba supported on his shoulder – Shino! – Kiba yelled. The Aburame boy tensed his jaw to suppress the pain. He got Kiba to safety behind one of the enormous trees of the Forest. Sakura did the same with Akamaru. A few seconds later. The mudshots stopped, and the cloud of petals had settled. It was at that moment when Team Eight saw a thumping swarm of bats. There were all sizes of bats. A few were larger than Ranji and almost as big as Gozu. Team Eight gulped – These bats were not summoned. Rinji must be using a jutsu to control the bats in the area. This is not a symbiotic or partnership relationship like my bugs or Akamaru with Kiba. The Forest provided him with such an army of bats – Shino figured there were several species of bat within the Forest, and Rinji had gathered them all. Anko-sensei had warned them that the animals inside the Forest were not common. The swarm of bats quickly devoured Shino's bug swarm, which was chasing Rinji. After devouring the insects, they flew behind Rinji – C'mon, Aburame-boy. This was just an appetizer. My pets are hungry – Rinji laughed as the swarm of bats flew toward the genins. Meanwhile, Gozu waved some hand seals – Doton: Dosekiryu! (mudslide) – the man kneeled and placed his hands on the ground. The soil softened and rose, sliding at high speed, turning into a wave of dirt, washing away everything in its path. Team Eight was forced to escape upwards, or the mudslide would swallow them. However, the bats were waiting for them as they climbed the trees. Shino noticed the three largest bats close in size to Gozu flew down, and each took one of the unconscious Oto-genins – We can't let them escape! – Shino growled as a massive swarm of insects emerged from his sleeves. The bats immediately started devouring the insects. Rinji, Gozu and the bats blocked the way to Team Eight. Shino, Sakura and Kiba cursed as they saw the three bats leave the area. They had failed Teams Seven and Ten – Now that we've got what we came for, let's have some fun – said Rinji as he and Gozu waved some hand seals.

With Team Five

Neji, Sai, and Hoki had already gotten their scroll. However, after evaluating the situation, they decided not to enter the tower yet. They had agreed to stay in the forest, where they could watch the other teams fight and see their abilities, strengths and weaknesses. They needed to study their rivals, and there was no better place than the forest, where everyone was fighting to pass the exam, not only against each other but also against the forest itself. Thanks to Neji's Byakugan and Sai's flying creatures, they could wander the forest without being bothered or noticed. Neji had been using his Byakugan to examine the forest and go where the battles were taking place. He and his team saw and examined everything from the sky.

It was not long ago when Neji, as he inspected the forest with his Byakugan and looked for promising battles to witness, noticed that Hinata and her team, along with Team 10, were fighting together against one single kunoichi. This caught Neji's attention and, soon after that, his worry. He was thunderstruck to see how the kunoichi was easily managing herself against six enemies and even pushing them to the edge. He feared for Hinata, who he saw as a little sister. He informed his team about the situation and decided to go to their aid. Team Five were en route to aid Teams Seven and Ten. Hoki and Sai had never seen Neji so worried and scared – Please, don't die, Hinata! I'm coming! – Neji thought. He would not be able to see Hanabi, his uncle or aunt, in their eyes if he let his cousin die.

With Kusagakure Team (Karin)

Karin and her team had fought against a Konoha team a few hours before and won. Unfortunately for them, their enemy had the same scroll as them, a Heaven scroll. Her teammates had decided to keep both Heaven scrolls. It could save them the need for another battle if they could exchange one of their Heaven Scrolls for an Earth Scroll. Karin was not a good fighter, but she was the most valuable team member, given her healing abilities. However, it didn't change the fact that her teammates treated her so cruelly, bullying her and telling her she was no more than a healing tool. Whenever they wanted to be healed fast, they bit her and sucked her healing chakra, even though she could use Medical Ninjutsu to heal them in a normal fashion, taking more time, of course. Her unique chakra was not only faster in healing when drained directly from her body through biting her, but it also healed the wound better than a healing jutsu. Her teammates never missed the chance to remind her that healing them was her only purpose in life as their teammate. She hated them. She hated everyone from her village. They had killed her mother after draining her chakra entirely. She didn't want to end up that way but was too weak to fight them and escape. She would die on her own in that scary forest for sure. She hadn't given up hope of escaping from them on their way back to Kusagakure when the exams finished. She only had to endure for a little longer, and she would be free of the hell she was forced to live in every day.

She and her Team had stopped to gather provisions and eat. They were having lunch when they heard turmoil nearby – There must be a fight nearby – said one of her teammates. The other stood up – Karin, stay here. We'll go see the fight – Karin stuttered. She didn't like their company, but didn't want to stay alone in the forest – okay – she muttered, too afraid to argue against being left alone. Her teammates barely heard her – Hopefully, the winner of the fight will have an Earth scroll to spare and exchange with us – said one of them. The other pulled a kunai and said – if they don't want to exchange scrolls, we can always kill the winner and take both of their scrolls. The fewer teams make it to the next stage, the better – said the second one with an evil smile. The two Kusa-nins left to see the battle.

A few moments later, they got close enough to see the battle. They were surprised by the loud turmoil the fight caused. They were even more shocked to see who was fighting – I never knew Shiore was that strong! – said one of them. Their fellow citizen was fighting alone against six Konoha genins, but not any genins, the children of Hokage and his advisors, and the team trained by the former Hokage, and she was winning. They gulped – I'll never mess up with her again – said one of them. The other nodded in agreement. After a while, it looked like Shiore was finally getting tired. The Konoha-nins started to land their attacks, forcing her to change into defense. They were pondering if they should join and help her when Shiore performed a summoning jutsu. Three giant snakes appeared and launched against the Konoha-nins. They were doomed. Their jaws dropped – I had no idea Shiore could summon snakes. When did she sign the contract? – asked on the boys. Then, they noticed a fourth snake, a smaller one. Shiore gave her some instructions and the snake slithered quickly toward them. One of them was frightened and tried to run, but the other held him by the wrist – This is Shiore's summoning. She must've sent it this way to ask us for help – said the second genin. The first one calmed down. What his friend said made sense. However, as soon as the snake arrived, she opened her snout, swallowing the genin in one gulp. The snake was larger than they thought. The other genin pulled his kunai and threw it at the snake. The snake had what it wanted; it would've returned to its master if the genin hadn't attacked her. She turned and coiled around the boy's body and constricted it tightly until the boy stopped breathing. The snake then uncoiled and headed back to its master.

With Teams Seven and Ten

The six genins were fighting the three snakes. Since Shikamaru, Hinata and Ino had been hit by the Kusa-nin's Katon and were injured, they had paired in groups of two. Sasuke and Ino fought together against one snake, Naruto and Hinata against the second one, and Shikamaru and Choji against the third one. Ino's left arm was badly burned. Shikamaru had burns on his neck, forearms and chest, as well as a nasty-looking bruise on his stomach where the earth-wall debris hit him. His vest was burned entirely, so only the metallic mesh covered his torso. He had his hair loose since the Katon had burned his hair tie before Hinata's suiton protected him. Hinata, who cast the Suiton, had no burns on her body but had been hit by debris as well. Her arms and legs were injured from the impact. They were acting as supporters in the fight, while Sasuke, Naruto and Choji took the offensive against the snakes. Shikamaru didn't lose sight of the Kusa-nin. She was still atop the branch, breathing heavier every second. He was waiting for an opening to sneak between the giant snakes and go after her. He was sure she did not have the strength left to fight. However, he was worried about the fourth snake. Hinata had already used too much chakra and could not activate her Byakugan to track the snake. Meanwhile, Orochimaru frowned – It looks like we're having some company coming soon. What a nuisance – hissed the Kusa-nin.

Sasuke sneaked and passed through the snake as Ino distracted it. The guilt for not helping Shikamaru and Hinata stop the Katon earlier was driving her strength after she had given up any hope. She was a Suiton user, like Hinata, after all. If she had helped with her own Suiton, maybe Shikamaru wouldn't have been hit with all the might of the Katon. She threw kunais, shurikens and senbons at the snake, but its skin was too thick. They seemed only to make the snake angrier. Sasuke was now behind the snake. He jumped and aimed at the head from behind. He waved hand seals midair – Katon: Gokakyu no Jutsu! – Sasuke spat an impressive fireball. He had never produced such an intense fireball before. He wondered if it was due to his improvement in using the Sharingan or perhaps the fear of his life and his friends that was giving him some sort of boost in his strength. It didn't matter. It only mattered to get rid of these snakes. Orochimaru smirked – That's an impressive Katon for such a young boy. As was expected from Wicked Eye Fugaku's son – said the Kusa-nin to herself. The fireball hit the snake on the nape. The snake hit the ground as it fell and hissed in pain, but before that it hit Sasuke with its tail with high strength. Sasuke was rocketed to the ground. He spat blood as he hit the ground. He felt several ribs broken, but he had to endure the pain. The snake started coiling and uncoiling, repeatedly trying to extinguish the fire that was consuming it. Sasuke stumbled as he stood up. He moved to the front and waved some seals again – Raiton: Raimei! – Sasuke extended his hands, aiming at the snake's snout. A lightning thunder was launched at the snake's snout, electrocuting it from the inside. After some high-pitched hissed of pain, the snake fell, inert. The snake promptly disappeared in a cloud of smoke. Sasuke fell to his knees and Ino rushed to help him stand up.

Choji wasted no time and used his multi-size jutsu to increase in size. He grew taller than the giant Snake and rushed forward. Shikamaru frowned. Making his entire body grow that big would consume a lot of chakra. Choji was over-pushing himself. He didn't remember a time when he saw Choji grow this big. Choji ran forward and punched the Snake on the snout, breaking one of its fangs. The Snake quickly recovered and slithered forward, dodging Choji and coiling around his leg. Choji grabbed the Snake below the head and squished her, but the Snake refused to die. She started producing venom in its remaining fang. A drop of venom fell from the fang on Choji's right hand, burning its skin. The Kusa-nin laughed from the branch. Choji endured the pain, pulled the Snake, uncoiling it from his legs, and tossed it away. He pulled his bo staff from his back, which had also enlarged, and used it to defend himself as the Snake tried to reach for his neck. Shikamaru thrust forward and climbed Choji's back to stand on his shoulder – You overdid yourself, Choji – said Shikamaru as he noticed his friend's expression and the poison burnt on his hand. The Akimichi boy said nothing. Choji was using a lot of chakra to stay this size, and he wouldn't be able to hold it much longer. Shikamaru waved some hand seals – Stay still, you stupid Snake – said Shikamaru as his shadow and Choji's merged, and since Choji's shadow and the Snake's were connected, the Snake froze too. The Kusa-nin chuckled. Shikamaru formed a new seal – Kage Nui no Jutsu! (Shadow sewing technique) – The enormous, combined shadow of the Snake and Choji rose and turned into sharp tendril-like needles that pierced the Snake's entire body. The Snake was utterly impaled by its own shadow – Take that, you bastard! – said Choji as Shikamaru broke the jutsu. The Snake fell, blood pouring down from all over its body, and then disappeared in a cloud of smoke. The Kusa-nin looked at the duo – To think the Akimichi boy can already grow this much, and the Nara boy is already using the sewing technique at such a young age. What do you intend to do training a new team, Sarutobi-sensei? – the Kusa-nin cursed in a whisper to herself.

Naruto pulled a scroll from his wooden box and created a kage bunshin. The real Naruto handed over the scroll to the clone. Orochimaru looked intrigued. Having been Jiraiya's teammate, he knew that scrolls' power could not be cloned. If a kage bunshin is created, even though, in theory, he may have a bunshin scroll with him, the bunshin scroll would be useless. Many shinobis failed to acknowledge that principle and made horrible mistakes on the battlefield. It looked like Naruto knew about it. But he wondered what kind of power that scroll had if he needed a clone to use it. A destructive power, most likely. Hinata and the real Naruto rushed forward while the clone stayed behind. Naruto pulled two shurikens from his pouch and blew into them Futon chakra. The shurikens started spinning fast as a wind chakra surrounded them. The Kusa-nin's eyes went wide open as she curled her abnormally long tongue – He's still got a lot to improve with Chakra form manipulation, but to think he already can create futon enhanced shurikens. Your son's got talent, Minato-kun – the Kusa-nin muttered with ill excitement. At that moment, the fourth smaller snake appeared, vomiting the other Kusa-genin that had swallowed. The boy was unconscious, but the snake coiled around it and lifted him as a stand. Hinata stood before the giant snake, and as it slithered forward with its snout open, she hit the air – Hakke Kusho! – the vacuum palm hit the snake below the snout, lifting its head. Naruto then threw both of his shurikens and hit the snake. The shurikens made two big cuts at the snake's sides. It started bleeding out but charged at them again. Naruto gritted his teeth. He still couldn't make the range of his shurikens wider. He tried to cut the snake in two with one hit, but he failed – Hinata, move away! – Naruto said as he pulled a second kunai with a tag tied to its handle and stood before the snake. He let the snake hit him and immediately pierced the kunai into the snake's nose. Naruto and the Snake were petrified as the sealing formula from the kunai's tag spread over both. Orochimaru chuckled – the same paralyzing tagged-kunai he used against Haku, huh? What are you going to do next? – the Kusa-nin whispered as she stood in front of the other Kusa-nin her snake was holding. At that moment, the clone with the scroll ran forward and sneaked into the snake's snout, to everyone's surprise. The clone continued advancing into the snake's guts until it was deep into it. Naruto then focused his chakra, and a massive explosion detonated inside the snake. Tearing the snake's body apart. The snake's insides were splattered all around and quickly vanished in a cloud of smoke. Naruto and the others had no idea that summoning contracts worked that way. Every single piece of the snake had vanished.

Naruto and the rest were trying to catch their breath as they saw how the smaller snake removed the necklace from the Kusa-nin. As soon as the necklace was removed, the kunoichi fell to her knees, screaming in pain and spitting blood. She then collapsed, falling from the tree branch. She hit the ground with a loud thump. She was dead. The six rookies were clueless about what had just happened. Shikamaru was putting the puzzle together – Do not let that snake put that necklace on that boy! – yelled Shikamaru as he extended his shadow toward the tree. Sasuke, Naruto and the rest dashed forward. Sasuke waved some hand seals to launch a fireball, but he didn't have enough chakra. None of them did. Shikamaru's shadow stopped moving and started pulling back – Damn it! – he cursed as his kagemane no jutsu vanished. Naruto was the first to arrive, but it was too late. The snake had already placed the necklace on the boy's neck. The boy woke up abruptly and, with ease, ducked Naruto's attack. As he rose, he punched Naruto in the stomach, sending him away with such strength that the tree log shattered when he hit it. Choji arrived next, but he, too, was easily countered and sent away. The boy took Ino and Hinata by their necks. Hinata tried to hit his arm with her gentle fist, but he wouldn't let her. He jumped from the tree branch and landed, hitting both kunoichis against the ground. The impact was painful but not lethal – Hinata, Ino! – Sasuke and Shikamaru yelled. The boy stood up and thrust forward, aiming at Sasuke. Sasuke was looking at his movements with his Sharingan to predict a way to block him, but his Sharingan deactivated. He was out of chakra – Fuck! – muttered Sasuke as he dodged the first few blows of the boy, but the boy quickly got the upper hand and landed a solid arcing kick on Sasuke's side, sending him away. He then launched toward Shikamaru. The boy broke Shikamaru's defense and hit him in the chest on the burned tissue from the Katon. Shikamaru suppressed a scream as he tried to punch the boy, but the boy jumped and kicked Shikamaru in the face. The Nara boy fell to the ground.

Instead of attacking and killing them on the spot, the boy retreated, giving them space and the chance to regroup. The six genins stood together – What the hell just happened? – Naruto asked. Everyone looked at the Nara boy –Our enemy was not the kunoichi or this boy. That necklace; someone is controlling them through that necklace – Shikamaru pointed at the necklace with the pink crystal and the white snake – remember what the kunoichi said to Ino? "You should be grateful this is not my real body" "I shall praise you for entering my mind, even if it was through this weak, mediocre body." – Shikamaru repeated the words. Something finally made sense to Ino – When I tried to control her body, a strange figure trapped me. It showed me horrible things. She showed me how she tortured several men and told me that was she would do to us. But the silhouette of whoever was doing the torture and trapped me didn't look exactly like the kunoichi. The voice talking to me wasn't hers either – Sasuke, Naruto and Choji looked at the boy. He was just standing there, smirking. He was a little shorter than Naruto, but right now, he looked like the worst menace they had ever faced. Hinata gathered the few chakra she had left to activate her Byakugan. During the fight, she never paid attention to the necklace or any other abnormality in the kunoichi's chakra. She gasped and deactivated her Byakugan – There is a powerful chakra coming out from the crystal, no, from the snake inside the crystal. The chakra spreads over the boy's body as a disease. The chakra is too powerful. The boy's chakra is trying to fight it, but it's being consumed – Shikamaru and Sasuke gritted their teeth – So, the kunoichi's body came to a limit, and you needed a new host, am I right? – Sasuke demanded an answer. The boy chuckled – Correct, Sasuke-kun – Who are you? – Choji questioned. The boy started laughing, but before he could answer, Shikamaru spoke – Besides Anko-sensei, only one more person is known to have a contract with the Snakes. Her former sensei – the boy laughed lauder – The rogue Legendary Sannin, Orochimaru – continued Shikamaru. A shiver went through the spine of the other five – In the flesh, sort of – said the boy. The six genins gulped.

Shikamaru gulped before talking again – Why didn't you kill us? You've had plenty of opportunities – the boy chuckled – In due time, little one. I will kill you and your teammates myself when the time is right. And when I do it, I'll do it personally – Shikamaru, Choji and Ino took a step back unconsciously – As for you three – said the boy as he pointed at Team Seven – I have wonderful plans for you. You three shall be mine. I'm eager to meet you all again in person, especially you, Naruto-kun – Orochimaru said as he curled his tongue – Naruto shivered. Sasuke and Hinata stared at Naruto. Why the particular interest of Naruto? They wondered. Orochimaru was engrossed in his thoughts – You shall be my next vessel, Naruto-kun. My definite body. The physical strength and longevity of the Uzumaki Clan that runs through your veins will help me unlock the ultimate power, the power of Rikudo Sennin. I shall get the three most powerful dojutsus, Rinnegan, Sharingan and Byakugan. With that, I will be able to take down Nagato and Madara myself and master all jutsus and immortality – Orochimaru thought. He cast his thoughts away and continued his speech – I came here to test you six. I wanted to see what you all are made of. I must say I'm more than pleased with what you have accomplished. Let's have some more fun – said Orochimaru as he waved some hand seals – Futon: Kaze wo Kiru! (Slicing wind) – the boy took a deep breath and exhaled a powerful gust of wind blades. The six genins had no chakra left to defend themselves. They were ready to receive the attack when two figure appeared before them out of nowhere – Doton: Doryuheki! – The shorter figure exclaimed, and the ground rose, forming an earth wall. This wall, however, was much more stronger than Shikamaru's. Orochimaru's jutsu was dispersed when it hit the wall, which remained unperturbed. Orochimaru frowned and gritted his teeth.

Hokage Tower: Minato's Ofiice, a little earlier.

Minato was in his office talking with one of his commanders. The man sitting in front of Minato was a thin, blacked-haired man with black eyes and fair skin. His hair was pinned up on the top of his head with a red band in a Japanese chonmage top-knot style. He wore the standard Konoha shinobi outfit, but the t-shirt he wore under the flak jacket was turtle-neck short-sleeved and dark blue. Unlike most other shinobis, his t-shirt was not tucked in, extending slightly below his jacket. He wore the typical ANBU corps vambraces on his arms – How are the preparations going, Kasai? – Minato asked – Everything is going smoothly, Yondaime-sama – Minato sighed – We've been friends since our time in the academy, Kasai. We were teammates back then with Dekai under Jiraiya's-sensei team. You can call me Minato – a light smile formed on Kasai's face – You should not make any distinction among your soldiers, Yondaime-sama – Minato sighed once more. There was no point in arguing with his old friend. Kasai continued talking before Minato could say anything – I have selected the members for the mission myself. People I can trust with my life – Minato's look hardened as Kasai gave Minato a list of the people he had selected – With the threat of a spy of Orochimaru, we can't be too cautious. Especially not with this mission – Minato said as he read the names and nodded in agreement – I still can't believe Orochimaru managed to infiltrate someone within the Hokage Tower. Preparations for a possible attack would be easier if we could divulge the strategy to our entire military – Kasai said as he stood up. Minato agreed – It's been a headache for us trying to coordinate a counterattack relying only on a portion of our force. Thankfully, it seems the ANBU and the Root have not been infiltrated. They'll be our greatest resource. Shikaku has been selecting the most trustworthy shinobis within the regular army to prepare, but the uncertainty complicates everything – Minato said as he stared at his former teammate. He wished their former teammate, Dekai, were alive too. Things would be easier having Team 6 complete as the good old days. Kasai was getting ready to leave when someone knocked on the door – Come in! – Minato replied. The former old Hokage walked in, wearing his black jumpsuit.

Kasai bowed for the former Hokage – Kasai! It's been a long time! I'm glad to see you – said the old man as he bowed back to the Jounin – Likewise, Sandaime-sama – said the Jounin as he raised his head – Sandaime-sama. I was not expecting you. Do you need something? – Minato asked. The former Hokage took a seat before Minato's desk as Kasai walked toward the door – Hold on a second, Kasai. Don't you want to peek at the Chunin exams? – said the old man as he waved a hand seal, and a crystal ball appeared before him on Minato's desk. Minato and Kasai smirked. They knew Hiruzen's Telescope Technique very well. He took the other seat next to the former Hokage – I figured you'd like to watch Naruto's and his team's performance, if you're not too busy, of course – said the old man with a mischievous smile. Minato chuckled – What about your team, Sandaime-sama? – Minato asked – Ohh, we'll take a look at them, too, of course. But let's start with Team 7 – said the old man as he focused his chakra, looking for Naruto's. The crystal ball turned white.

It was at that moment that back in the forest Orochimaru knew his former sensei was tracking the area with his telescope technique. He could've blocked his sensei's clairvoyance if he wanted to, but Hiruzen would know immediately he was there if the telescope technique failed. He needed to buy time until his snake returned with a new body to possess. Hiruzen's crystal ball image cleared, showing the battlefield within the Death Forest. Minato, Hiruzen and Kasai stood up abruptly – What's the meaning of this? – Kusai said, dumbfounded as he stared at the three giant snakes Teams Seven and Ten were fighting against. They were not expecting to see both teams together. Even more worrying, they looked severely beaten up – That kind of snake does not live in the forest. Those were summoned! – Minato said, worrisome – is that Kusa-girl the summoner? – Kusai asked. Hiruzen had stayed silent all this time. Minato knew the reason. Snakes were temperamental. Very few shinobis throughout history have been able to sign a contract with them. Anko had mastered Orochimaru's hidden snakes' technique and could summon small to medium size snakes. However, none of the major snakes from the Ryuchi Cave deemed Anko worthy to summon them. How could've this genin managed to summon such big snakes when Anko couldn't? Minato stared at the kunoichi standing atop the branch. She was bleeding from her stomach and side. She looked exhausted, too – Could she be a new apprentice of Orochimaru-san? – Minato pondered aloud. He, and most likely Hiruzen had considered for a second that Orochimaru had infiltrated, but that was impossible with the outer and inner barriers. Besides, there was no way six genins could've inflicted such wounds on Orochimaru, one of the Legendary Sannins. The former Hokage remained mute. Kasai looked at the old man, then at his friend and former teammate – Has Kusagakure allied with Orochimaru? – the implications were severe. Kusagakure had always remained neutral. That's why the Five Great Nations funded a prison within Kusagakure territories. They had formidable shinobis but never participated in any war since they were a small country. The former Hokage had fixed his eyes on the kunoichi, almost ignoring the hell his students and Team Seven were enduring. He frowned as he turned to face Minato – I need to confirm something, Minato. Fetch Hizashi, ple … - Hiruzen didn't finish speaking when Minato vanished with his Hiraishin no Jutsu.

A few moments later, Minato reappeared with Hizashi Hyuga. The Hyuga bowed to the former Hokage – Sandai… - There is no time for formalities, Hizashi. This girl, can you examine her chakra? She must be within your range – said the old man, pointing at the image of the kunoichi in a crystal ball. He had no idea how that was possible. Hizashi stuttered. The former Hokage seemed preoccupied – I can. It would be easy if I knew her exact loca… - Training Ground 44, sector 44-E – said Minato before Hizashi finished. Hizashi activated his Byakugan and looked for the girl. He noticed in the crystal ball that Teams Seven and Ten were fighting against her. Could it be the Hokage and former Hokage were just too worried about them? Minato, Hiruzen and Kasai continued looking at the fight through the crystal ball. They saw a new snake arrive that disgorged a boy; that's when Hizashi found them – I've spotted her! – Hizashi said – This can't be! – said the Hyuga. He started sweating – What is it? – Hiruzen and Minato demanded – I registered the chakra of all the exam participants – Hizashi stopped and looked at Kasai for a second. The existence of the outer barrier was known only to the members of the War Council and the outer barrier team. Not even the members of the inner barrier knew about it. Kasai, even though he was the Hokage's former teammate, was not a member of the War Council since he was not a head of clan and Shikaku was the Jounin Chief Commander. The Hyuga reframed himself to mention the outer barrier – as they crossed the barrier by walking through the village walls myself. I remember this girl, but this chakra, it's not hers. In fact, I didn't register this chakra at all – said the Hyuga. He gulped – There is something familiar with this chakra – the white-eyed shinobi continued. Hiruzen frowned – It resembles Orochimaru's chakra – Kasai was the one who looked the more surprised by the news – This is not exactly his chakra. Everyone has a different color of chakra, a unique signature. Yet, the similarity is impressive – Hiruzen gritted his teeth – Are you sure this is not Orochimaru? – the old man asked – I had never seen something like this, not even between parents and their children, not even my twin brother and I have chakras so similar as this girl to Orochimaru's – Everyone stayed silent.

They wondered if they should intervene and capture the Girl. The genins were close to defeating the snakes, and the Girl had no hope of winning against the six of them in her current condition – What about her teammates? – Minato asked. Hizashi nodded and searched for the other two in the forest – Found them! They're fighting Team Eight. Team Eight is in a dire situation, too. These two haven't changed their chakra signatures. However, … - The other three stared at the Hyuga – it looks like they were disguised when they entered Konoha. Their physical appearance is completely different, and their headbands are from Otogakure – Hizashi said. Minato and Hiruzen closed their fists. Everyone looked at the crystal ball. The three snakes had been defeated. They saw how the fourth snake removed the necklace from the kunoichi, collapsing to death – Hizashi! Focused again on this battlefield! – ordered the former Hokage as the snake placed the necklace on the boy. They saw how the boy woke up as soon as the necklace was on his chest – The boy's chakra. It is being consumed. The snake inside that crystal emanates a powerful chakra, consuming the boy's. It is the same Girl's chakra – said Hizashi – No. It is Orochimaru's – The old man said. Kasai and Hizashi were shocked. On the other hand, Minato remained unperturbed – so, after all these years, he did it. He tried for years to replicate Dan's Spirit Transformation Technique – Hiruzen said – You mean, Tsunade's-sama fiancé? – Minato asked. Hiruzen nodded – Orochimaru thought that if the jutsu were improved to contain someone's portion of chakra or soul within an object, turning it into a parasite jutsu, it would be more efficient for possessing an enemy or infiltrating than leaving your body vulnerable as Dan's technique did – Kasai gulped – so, that's Orochimaru? – Hiruzen nodded – In some way. A weak version of him. He can store only so much chakra on that necklace – Hiruzen noticed Minato was about to use his Hiraishin – Wait a second, Minato! You're the Hokage, dealing with scumbag as Orochimaru is beneath you. Send me; I'll deal with him. You have marked Naruto, haven't you? – Minato wanted to argue. The Hokage and former Hokage exchanged looks without saying a word. Was Orochimaru aware of the outer barrier? Or was it just a coincidence that he took these kinds of precautions to be undetected? Very few people in Konoha knew about the outer barrier. Both Hokages considered the possibility that a high-ranking member of Konoha's military was working with Orochimaru or perhaps someone within the Outer Barrier Team. The list of people they could trust grew shorter every day – Sandaime-sama is right, Yondaime-sama – said Hizashi – You shouldn't interfere with the Chunin Exams. Let Sandaime-sama handle it – Minato agreed reluctantly. He got closer to Hiruzen and Kasai, placing a hand on each – Kasai, I have no mark on Team Eight or close to them. I'll teleport you along with Sandaime-sama to Naruto's location. Rush in aid of Team Eight. Capture Orochimaru's shinobis if possible, but do not let them escape – Kasai nodded. Minato saw how Orochimaru waved some hand seals and immediately teleported them.

With Teams Seven and Ten

Hiruzen and Kasai arrived at the battlefield. Hiruzen waved some hand seals – Doton: Doryuheki – an earth wall rose from the ground, blocking Orochimaru's futon. The six genin stared at the two shinobis before them, dumbfounded – Jiji, Kasai oji-san (uncle) – said Naruto – Sensei! – Team Ten yelled simultaneously. Relief in their voices. Kasai turned his head a little bit to see Naruto and smiled at him. Hinata and Sasuke stared at the former Hokage and Jounin. Sasuke was awestruck by Hiruzen's earth-wall. It hadn't moved even a little when that incredible futon technique hit it. Hiruzen formed another seal, and the wall descended back to the ground. Hiruzen and Kasai stared at the boy before them – You disgust me! – the old man said in a despective tone. The boy only laughed. Kasai stared at the boy for a second and then disappeared into a cloud of smoke using a shunshin no jutsu. Orochimaru stared at the empty space the Jounin had left – he's going after Rinji and Gozu. They stand no chance against Kasai – Orochimaru thought and, for the first time during the whole battle, burst his chakra. The chakra produced an incredible oppressing wave that made the air around feel denser. The genins almost passed out, but Hiruzen's own burst of chakra quickly surpassed Orochimaru's chakra. Sasuke and Naruto stared at each other. It was like that day on the bridge when Orochimaru and Jiraiya burst their chakras – He's trying to use his chakra to warn his lackeys to flee before Kai reaches them and, at the same time, drag the attention of all the patrols around the area to him, freeing the path to his disciples – Hiruzen thought.

Hiruzen looked at the genins from the corner of his eye and turned again to stare at the boy. His eyes were filled with rage – Your stupidity surprises me, Orochimaru. Sneaking into the Chunin Exams and attacking some genins, what were you thinking? You are the leader of a Hidden Village now. What you did here gives Konoha the perfect excuse to attack your village – the old man said as he gave a few steps forward. The boy laughed – War? Is that a threat? Kukuku. Konoha has never started a war, Sarutobi-sensei. And that won't change until you and your legacy are exterminated. Minato-kun has been influenced by your foolish, peaceful ways, after all, hasn't he? Besides, how do you plan to start a war when you don't even know who to trust within the walls of your own beloved village – the boy mocked as he burst into laughter. Hiruzen frowned. The comment and the former Hokage's reaction didn't go unnoticed by the Genins. They started to understand the severity of the situation – But don't worry Sensei. Even if Konoha does not make the first move, war IS coming your way, and DEATH is coming for you, as well as for your precious students. Death by my hand, of course – said the boy as he curled his tongue. Sasuke and the rest figured that Orochimaru was using some kind of jutsu to elongate his host's tongue. They doubted the boy and the previous kunoichi had the same abnormally long tongue as him – I pity you, Orochimaru. What a pathetic, senseless life you have – the face of the Hokage showed a repugnance that Team Ten and Naruto had never seen. The boy before them frowned, upset – Says the man who was once revered as Shinobi no Kami, as the Professor, and look at you now. Old, decrepit, WEAK. You're just a shell of what you used to be, Sarutobi-sensei. You and that stubborn mule, Oonoki, are proof of the human body's mortality and fragility. I, Orochimaru, am the perfect Shinobi. You stand here stoically, but tell me, Sensei, can you protect these children? – said Orochimaru as he waved some hand seals – Futo… - Orochimaru couldn't cast his jutsu. Hiruzen moved with an unnatural speed for a man of his old age and grabbed the boy by the neck, lifting him – It seems that it is you who cannot defend yourself – said the old man. His gaze transmitted a hatred Orochimaru had never felt – How can he move so fast? He should be dying. The cancer should've spread all over his body after so many years – Orochimaru wondered.

Orochimaru, unlike Jiraiya and Tsunade, was aware of his sensei's condition from the very beginning. Hiruzen had told him about it during the Third Great War. Hiruzen had told him he would pass the hat and mantle of Hokage to him, and he would let the cancer take his life. His sensei had betrayed him, though. At the end of the war, he chose Minato as Yondaime instead of him. After discovering his former sensei had taken a new genin team under his tutelage, he kept track of Hiruzen's performance during Team Ten's missions. The old man always let his students do all the work and seldom took action. He had assumed Hiruzen had continued with his dying wish to let cancer kills him and was too weakened to interfere in a fight – damn it! – Orochimaru cursed in his mind – He shouldn't be able to move this fast. And that chakra burst from before was not what I expected. I curse you, Sarutobi-sensei. He must've asked Tsunade to heal him. He's planning to fight Madara. How reckless you were, Madara. You exposed yourself and failed, and now this old man who was supposed to be weak and frail has turned out to be a more significant threat to our plans. This changes everything. I must reconsider my strategy for the invasion – Orochimaru thought. But his thoughts were interrupted as Hiruzen tightened the grip around his neck. Hiruzen wanted to snap his prey's neck, but the boy was innocent. He wasn't sure if the boy would survive if the necklace were removed. Orochimaru saw his sensei's hesitation and laughed as he pulled a kunai. Hiruzen quickly used his free hand to hold the boy's wrist and twist it, forcing the hand to drop the kunai. The old man let go of the boy's wrist and formed a hand seal with his free hand. A sealing formula emerged from his hand, spreading from the boy's neck to his entire body. The boy frowned as Hiruzen released him, yet he was still unable to move. He was trapped by a paralyzing seal.

Hiruzen turned around and walked toward the genins. The six rookies struggled to stand up – Jiji! Do not turn your back on him! He's too dangerous! – Naruto yelled as he and the rest pulled kunais from their pouches. The old man gave them a soft smile – Maybe if his real body was here, he could manage to free himself from that paralyzing seal, but as weak as he is with that host, he won't be able to move – said the old man as he approached Hinata – Weak? He almost killed us several times – said Sasuke, gasping. His thoracic cage hurt with every breath. The impact of the snake's attack had been more severe than he thought. The old man placed his hand on Sasuke's head and smiled – You're still young, Sasuke. I can see the potential in you. You'll become one of the strongest shinobis Konoha has ever produced. You must live up to the same legend I did, your namesake, after all – the old man rubbed Sasuke's hair and turned back to Hinata. Sasuke was clueless about what Hiruzen meant. But he looked at Ino, and she smiled at him, too. He was now more intrigued by what she told him a few days ago about sharing a past with the former Hokage. His thoughts were cast away when he heard the old man speak again – Hinata. I know you must be exhausted, but could you use your Byakugan to examine that boy's chakra flow? Is there still hope he'll survive if I remove that necklace? – the expression of the man had softened. He looked like the old caring grandpa they'd always seen in the village. Hinata nodded and, with much effort, activated her Byakugan. After a moment, she shook her head – He's already been consumed, Sandaime-sama. Orochimaru's chakra is the only thing keeping him alive – the Hyuga girl said as her eyes watered. That monster had just killed two innocent children just to have fun torturing them. The old man sighed and turned around.

Hiruzen looked at the paralyzed boy before him. A storm of emotions hit the former Hokage: sadness, sorrow, anger and rage. He looked at the boy, and the only thing he could see was his old disciple. He loved the Sannins as children of his own. It broke his heart to see how despicable Orochimaru could be. His heart wanted to take the boy in his arms and tell him everything was forgiven and that he could have another chance to be a good man. Still, his brain shouted that Orochimaru needed to die, that it was his responsibility to get rid of him, or that the price could be really high. He had threatened to kill his new disciples, and the old man knew Orochimaru would do everything in his power to do it. Hiruzen's thoughts were interrupted as the boy burst into laughter – Are you going to cry, Sensei? Do you want to save me? Redeem me? – the boy started to laugh – I will take everything you love, Sensei! I will see you succumb to despair – Hiruzen grabbed the boy and snapped his neck. He then removed the necklace that contained the white snake from his body. The old man placed the corpse gently on the ground. He stared at the boy. Another child victim of Orochimaru because he hadn't been able to kill him years ago. The death of the boy and the kunoichi were in his hands – I'm sorry. I shall pray for your souls – said the old man as he stood up. He stared at the necklace – this is no common crystal. It is not a diamond either – the man muttered to himself as he scrutinized the crystal – this has been made with chakra, but how? – he then realized it was not the time for this. He saved the necklace in his pocket and walked toward the genins.

The genins stared at the former Hokage, waiting for him to say something, but he remained mute. Naruto was about to speak, but Hiruzen raised his hand and asked him to say nothing. A few seconds later, Anko, followed by all the proctors, arrived at the scene – Sandaime-sama! That chakra from before! It was him! – said Anko rushing toward the former Hokage while holding the back of her neck. The genins and the proctors were shocked to see Anko so worried. The proctors were not able to identify the owner of the first wild burst of chakra, but they knew they needed to head to the source when they felt Hiruzen's. Only Anko knew who the responsible was. They couldn't conceive the idea of the former Hokage intervening in the exams so carelessly – He was here, wasn't he? – Anko demanded an answer. Hiruzen nodded – He was, or at least, his chakra was here. I'll explain everything to you, Anko, but first – the old man walked past Anko and talked to the proctors – You shall not tell a soul about what you saw here, is that understood? – the voice of the old man commanded authority. The proctors nodded – Kotetsu, Izumo, take these two genins from Kusagakure to Tsunade for an autopsy – the proctors were shaken. An autopsy? They were not allowed to do autopsies on the foreign participants of the exam. What was Sandaime-sama thinking? They wondered – Didn't you hear me? – said the old man in a severe tone. Kotetsu and Izumo gulped, took the corpses and left. Hiruzen then addressed the remaining proctors – There are still two intruders from Otogakure. Kasai is haunting them down right now. All of you go toward sector 44-L. Do not let them escape – everyone was too scared and confused to ask more questions and left immediately.

Hiruzen, followed by Anko, walked and joined the genins – Now, explain everything that happened. I want to listen to every single detail – said the old man. Anko was still confused about everything, but she said nothing. Teams Seven and Ten told the former Hokage and Anko everything that had happened with Orochimaru and how they, with the help of Team Eight, had chased down and fought the genins from Otogakure so they could interrogate them about Orochimaru. Hiruzen had kept his telescope jutsu activated, so, back in the Hokage Tower, Minato listened to everything they said – You bunch of spoiled idiots! How could you be so stupid? You could've got yourselves killed – Anko growled. Although, she was impressed by their guts and skills. She wouldn't say out loud, of course – Anko is right. You all were too reckless, but you're alive. That's what matters. Now, up you go, I'll take you all to the infirmary – said the old man. However, the six genins protested – No way! We're not giving up! We still haven't got our Heaven scrolls. Besides, the exam is not over yet – Naruto shouted, followed by cheers of agreement from his friends. Hiruzen smiled – You can barely stand up! You have serious wounds. You won't be able to make it to the tower in your condition! – Anko said, but the genins didn't seem like they would give in. Anko was about to argue again when she looked up suddenly – Sandaime-sama – the woman said – I know – the old man replied.

Anko pulled three kunais from her pouch and threw them at the sky. The kunais flew through the treetops. A few seconds later, three boys fell from the sky, landing not far from the six genins – It is rude to eavesdrop, you morons – said the woman in a threatening tone. Neji, Sai and Hoki straightened up – We didn't mean to eavesdrop, Anko-sensei. We came here to aid Teams Seven and Ten – said Neji as he stared at his cousin. Hinata blushed and smiled broadly – C'mon, Anko. Don't be too harsh. Besides, they're not the only ones eavesdropping –Hiruzen said as he turned to his left. Everyone turned around, too – You can come out. We won't harm you – said the old man. The red-haired girl from Kusagakure came out from behind a tree – I'm sorry. I was looking for my teammates, but … - Hiruzen's expression softened. The girl had tears in her eyes. She was the Uzumaki girl Minato told him about – I'm sorry, my child. They're gone. Come here – said the old man. Karin approached the old man – You are pretty talented. You are a sensor, aren't you? You almost extinguished completely your chakra signature – said the old man as he rubbed the girl's head. She blushed. The former Hokage had just complimented her – Tell me, do you want to stay in the exam? Or would you prefer to come with me to the infirmary? – asked the old man. Karin looked at the old man and nodded. Hiruzen turned then to face the six rookies – I know you all want to continue the exam, but you're heavily injured and still need to get your Heaven scrolls, as you said. I'm taking you all with me, too – said the old man. Naruto, Sasuke and Choji were about to argue, but Shikamaru spoke first – Sensei, you can't just expect us to quit, accept defeat, lick our wounds and head back home. That's not the Will of Fire. We still have three days left to finish. That's more than enough for us to heal enough and get out the missing scrolls. Let us stay and try. If we fail, we'll fail on our own terms – the other five rookies nodded in agreement - All of you are severely injured, Shikamaru. That's not something you and Hinata can heal in the time you have. It needs a more experienced medic-nin – It is still our choice to make, sensei. Not yours – Anko smirked – They've got a point, Sandaime-sama. Besides, they've already defeated one team each and fought against Oro… they fought against a shinobi way superior in their skills twice and survived. They've earned it – Naruto was the most surprised by Anko's support. Hiruzen sighed, and before he could say anything – I can help with that – Karin said as she walked toward Teams Seven and Ten. She pulled two scrolls from her pouch. Naruto's eyes shone with delight when he saw two Heaven scrolls in Karin's hands – Are you giving away your scrolls willingly, child? – Anko questioned. Karin nodded – I'm quitting. This is too much for me, and both my teammates are dead. There is no reason for me to keep them – the proctor looked at the former Hokage. He nodded – Whatever – said the Jounin.

Naruto hugged Karin – Thank you so much, Karin! You're the best! We owe you! We'll invite you to Ichiraku's Ramen! It is the best ramen in the world – Naruto said effusively. Karin blushed – We really owe you big time, Karin – Sasuke said with a smile. The other genins also thanked her for her help. Karin blushed even harder – I'm the one who is in debt with all of you. Now that my teammates are dead, I can escape from Kusagakure. I'll never return there. A new life is waiting for me – Karing thought. Karin looked down and played with her hair. She stuttered as she talked again – I can heal you all, too – said Karin shyly. Everyone stared at her – You're also a medic-nin? – Shikamaru seemed surprised. Karin nodded – That's too kind of you, Karin. But as I said earlier, their injuries cannot be healed so easily. I doubt you can heal them here. They'll need to go to the hospital after the second stage is finished – Hiruzen said. However, to his surprise, Karin shook her head – I can heal them – she said, full of confidence. She pulled her right sleeve up to reveal her forearm. Hiruzen immediately noticed scarred marks of bites on her arm – Amazing. She's not only an excellent sensor but also a user of the Heal Bite from the Uzumaki Clan – The old man smiled. He was glad to see another Uzumaki after their genocide. However, he didn't want to expose the girl. The other Great Nations coveted that technique. Even during the Warring States Period, the users of this technique used to be abducted and used as healing tools by the shinobis during the war until the user was drained of chakra and died. He could tell by the amount of bite scars on her arm that she had already started being abused by her village. Hiruzen grabbed her hand and stopped her before she could say anything about her ability – My child, you're a kind and selfless soul. I won't let you use that technique of yours. You've helped them enough by giving them your scrolls. They've made their choice to continue the exam with their wounds at their own risk. Now come, I'll get you to the infirmary so you can rest – the girl was shocked to hear the old man. He knew about her technique, yet he stopped her. Unlike everyone in her village, he didn't want to use her. She started weeping – Karin, are you okay? Jiji! You were too mean to her – Naruto reproached the former Hokage – No, Naruto., quite the opposite. He and all of you have shown me a kindness I never thought possible. Thank you – she said as she cleansed her tears. Hiruzen saddened. He was right. The girl had already been abused and turned into a healing tool by her village. Minato and Kushina would want to take matters into their own hands. He'll let them handle Karin's situation.

Hiruzen turned to face Team Five – you got both of your scrolls, right? – the three genins nodded – Then why aren't you in the tower? – the old man demanded. Neji gulped and explained their strategy to collect data from the other teams and how he noticed the fight and came to protect Hinata – That's very smart and brave of you. However, you have no business here anymore. Off you go! Straight to the tower this time – Hoki and Sai were ready to leave, but Neji cleared his throat and bowed – Sandaime-sama. These rookies are extremely injured. You said it yourself. Allow my team to escort them safely to the tower – Hiruzen smiled and replied plainly – No – Neji quickly raised his head – Please, Sandaime-sama! They won't be able to move in their condition until the day after tomorrow. I can't leave Hinata, I mean, all of them, here. Other teams may come and ambush them while they rest – Hinata blushed. Hiruzen looked at Neji – I'm well aware of that, Neji. That's the path they chose. I gave them the opportunity to leave, but they rejected it. I will not allow your team to help them – Neji kneeled and bowed until his head touched the ground – Please, Sandaime-sama. She's like a little sister to me. I won't forgive myself if something happens to her – Hinata started crying happily. Hiruzen looked to the sky, then back to Neji – Raise your head, Neji. It is almost sunset. Teams Seven and Ten will camp here tonight to rest. You can patrol ONLY FOR TONIGHT. At dawn, you and your team leave straight to the tower. Not a minute longer. I'll be watching over to make sure you leave at dawn. As for you six, you WILL NOT advance toward the tower until two hours after Team Five has left. IS THAT CLEAR? – the nine genins nodded – Thank you, Sandaime-sama – Neji bowed again. The former Hokage placed his hand on Karin's shoulder – Whenever you're ready, Yondaime-sama – Hiruzen said, and the next second, Hiruzen and Karin were gone. Minato had used his mark on Hiruzen to teleport them directly to the Hospital, where he and Kushina would meet the Uzumaki girl.

The nine genins were shocked to see the former Hokage and Karin disappear after Hiruzen called for the Yondaime. It hadn't been a shunshin no jutsu since no cloud of smoke had been left behind. They had just vanished – Impressive. Isn't it? – said Anko. Everyone nodded with their jaws dropped – You better follow Sandaime's-sama instructions, or you'll regret it – said Anko before disappearing into a cloud of smoke.

With Team Eight

Kiba, Sakura and Shino lay defeated and heavily injured on the ground. Rinji and Gozu stood before them. Rinji had a few cuts and bruises on his body. Gozu, on the other hand, was completely unharmed and held Akamaru in his right hand by his neck. The puppy whined weakly – You three were better than I expected, I'll give you that. But now, how should I kill you? I could skin you all or perhaps chop you in pieces to feed my pets. Or should I let them eat you alive? What do you think, Gozu? – said Rinji as he squatted before the genins and pointed his kunai at Sakura. Shino and Kiba tried to stand up to defend Sakura and save Akamaru, but their arms and legs didn't respond. Sakura closed her eyes, expecting the worst, when a powerful burst of chakra hit them. The chakra was evil and sinister. Rinji stood up abruptly. He and Gozu turned to look in the direction of the chakra – That's Orochimaru's-sama chakra! – Gozu said, astonished. A second chakra burst hit them, a more powerful one. Gozu and Rinji gulped – Time to go, Gozu! And get rid of that thing – Rinji said. Gozu kicked Kiba on the ground, turning him around to face up. Kiba growled – I think you need a new pet, boy – said Gozu as he squished Akamaru's neck until it stopped barking and breathing. Kiba tried to scream, but his voice didn't come out. Sakura burst into tears. Gozu laughed and threw Akamaru's corpse away. Akamaru hit a tree hard and fell to the ground with a loud thump. No barking, no whining. Akamaru was gone. With one last laugh, Rinji and Gozu left, followed by the swarm of bats Rinji had gathered. Kiba felt a lump in his throat. It was painful. Everything around him went quiet. It was as if the world had suddenly stopped moving. He stared at his ninken, his friend. His body was numb; all the pain had suddenly vanished. He had failed to protect his best friend. Despite the pain being gone, his body still didn't respond when he tried to stand up. He rolled over and crawled on the ground until he reached Akamaru's corpse. He sat on the ground, took his friend's body in his arms, and wept. He ignited his hands with the medic greenish-blue chakra, trying to heal his friend, but he was too weak. He was unable to maintain the chakra flowing for more than a few seconds. His hands started shaking. Shino limped toward Kiba and placed his hand on Kiba's shoulder – He's gone, Kiba. You can't bring him back – Kiba pushed Shino's hand – Shut the fuck up, Shino! Don't you see I need to focus! – Kiba's voice trembled – He can't be dead. He can't – Kiba mumbled. Shino stared at his friend. He opened his mouth, but no words came out. He didn't know what to say. He simply sat down next to Kiba and said nothing. Sakura continued lying on the ground, sobbing. She had no strength or will left to stand up. She wanted to close her eyes, sleep, and wake up in bed. She wanted all this to be just a nightmare. But it was. It was an absolute nightmare.

Rinji and Gozu were getting close to the border of the forest when Kasai landed in front of them, blocking their way. They stood atop a branch and Kasai on another – This is as far as you get. I'm taking you both back to Konoha – Kasai said with a cool stance. Rinji gulped and started sweating – This can't be. Of all people, they sent you – said Rinji and immediately ordered the swarm of bats to attack Kasai. Kasai burst his chakra with a killing intent. The bats stopped and flew away to hide in the depths of the forest – I have never seen the bats defy an order of Rinji. Who is this man? – Gozu said. Rinji gritted his teeth – You're so slow, Gazu. This is Kasai the Calamity. A former student of the Toad Sannin, Jiraiya, and teammate of Konoha's yellow flash, Yondaime Hokage – Rinji looked at Gozu from the corner of his eye. Gozu remained unperturbed. His face was as expressionless as always. Rinji intended to let Gozu fight Kasai while he escaped – I see. We stand no chance against him. – Gozu said. Rinji chuckled – We may stand a chance if you follow my plan; we'll – Rinji was interrupted – I have a plan of my own – said Gozu as his body turned into mud and expanded. Kasai pulled a kunai. He needed to assess this guy's ability before knowing how to counteract. Rinji smirked. Kasai prepared for the attack, while Rinji prepared for an opportunity to flee. However, Gozu's mud body jumped, engulfing Rinji and trapping him inside his body. Rinji struggled to free himself. Kasai was dumbfounded – You value your own life too much, Rinji. If Konoha captures you, you'll speak after just one minute with the torture master Ibiki Morino. We must do anything to protect Guren-san and Orochimmaru-sama – Gozu said as he continued suffocating Rinji with his mud body – Let me go, you bastard – Rinji yelled as his voice was lost within the mud – Damn it! He's trying to kill his own teammate – Kasai said as he performed a series of hand seals. However, Gozu had already consumed Rinji completely. He then yelled – Doton: Sekka! (petrification) – Gozu's mud body solidified into stone and fell to the ground. Gozu's body hit the ground and broke into pieces. The broken pieces started to wet, turning reddish – Damned jutsu. I didn't expect him to kill his own friend and then commit suicide to protect the intel – Kasai saved his kunai. He pulled a storage scroll and sealed the solidified mud pieces. He then left to look for Team Eight.

Kasai was on his way back to sector 44-L, where Team Eight was last seen, when he was intercepted by all the proctors of the exam. He briefed them about Gozu and Rinji demise. Kasai and the proctors then proceeded to continue. They stopped a safe distance away from Team Eight to not be detected – They look pretty bad – said one of the proctors. Kasai nodded. He looked at the Inuzuka boy holding his puppy – He's Tsume-san son, right? – Kasai asked. One of the proctors confirmed it – the pack will be enraged by the dead of one of them by the hands of Oto-nins – a few of the proctors shivered. Tsume-san was a scary woman as is. They didn't like the idea of seeing her anger – What should we do with Team Eight, Kasai-san? They're in pretty bad shape. If we leave them here, they might end up as food for the beats of the forest – Kasai stared at them – Find Anko and bring her here. She's the head proctor for this stage. It is up to her. I'll stay here keeping watch until you return – the proctors nodded and were about to leave – That won't be necessary. I'm here. All of you, go back to your posts – Anko said from a tree nearby. The proctors left and left the two former students of the Sannins alone.

Anko briefed Kasai about the events with Teams Seven and Ten. Shel told him also what T7 & 10 said about Team Eight – I see. Yondaime and Sandaime have decided to allow Team Seven and Tean to continue. So, what will you do with Team Eight? – Kasai questioned. Anko stared at the genins – I'll wait here until their exhaustion makes them fall sleep or pass out. Then I'll get them to the base of the tower and keep guard over them until they wake up. If it hadn't been for Orochimaru's-sensei doing, they'd already be inside the tower. I… I feel kind of responsible – Anko said. Kasai looked at the woman and smiled – Then it is settled. I'll stay here with you until those genins cross the Tower's gate. I couldn't ask for better company – Kasai said as he sat at the tree branch and laid back on the tree. Anko blushed.

Notes:

In the one-shot manga about Minato and the Rasengan, we met Team Six, aka, Team Jiraiya. The other two members of the team are Dekai, and we didn't get a name for the second one, so I called him Kasai, which means "conflagration". I didn't write a fight for him in this chapter because I didn't want to spoil what I have planned during the final stage arc. It will be until then that his abilities and strength will be shown.

I know Neji behaves completely differently from the canon, but in my story, the division of the branch and main family was abolished when Neji was just a toddler. He didn't grow up hating the main family. Hiashi and Hizashi have a good relationship; hence, Neji, Hinata and Hanabi are close like siblings.

Rinji and Gozu are characters from the filler episodes. They're subordinates of Guren, the crystal user.

When Hizashi saw the fight of Team Eight, he didn't mention anything about Team Dosu (Oto-genins), because the Forest bats called by Rinji had already taken them away. And it wasn't until Hiruzen made Teams 7 & 10 tell him and Anko everything that they discovered T8 had Team Dosu in their custody. By the time Konoha knew about it, the bats were already far away.

I know Orochimaru's possession crystal necklace sounds like a Horcrux from Harry Potter. Yes, I based the concept on HP. After all, Orochimaru and Voldemort have a lot in common.

Kabuto got Nagato's DNA before he allied with Obito to use the Edo Tensei on him to bargain with Obito. Hence, it is more likely that Orochimaru knew about Nagato's real identity. In my story, Orochimaru is more interested in the Rinnegan instead of the Sharingan, and that's why Naruto is his main target, not Sasuke. He knows Nagato is a Uzumaki and that he possesses the Rinnegan. He also knew that Obito was not Madara. We'll get to the point where this will be more relevant.

I'm sorry for killing Akamaru. I love dogs, and if something bothers me more than the death of a character I like, it is the death of an animal character I like. However, it is all in the interest of Kiba's development.

What's coming next:

Two chapters for the preliminaries.

One chapter for the mission in Kirigakure.

One chapter for training.

Intercalated chapters for the final stage of the Chunin Exams and the mission in Kirigakure, which, of course, will be linked to the same main plot.