The Adventures of the Vortex Hunter

by champblaze

Naruto is pushed aside for his father's new wife and daughters. Until one day his uncle from a foreign nation comes to take him away and helps him be reborn as the Vortex Hunter. Elements and characters from Final Fantasy 15. Bashing on Minato, Jiraiya, Kakashi and Minato's new wife(OC). More summary inside. On Indeterminate Hiatus

8. Chapter 8

AN-1: Hello Good People, it has been a Very long while since the last update but welcome to chapter Eight of our adventure with the finish of the mission to river country and push into the chunin exams. A little warning the first round of the exams will like the one in my story Dollmaker. I actually had written for awhile and didn't realize I had this one finished and another nearly finished, so I may make a double upload to get an opinion on something. Now Let's Begin The Ruckus.

"Speaking"

シーンブレイク(Scene Break)

[..Pause ...Long Pause]

Flashback

Biju

Summons

Addendum 11/17/2024: Fixing mistakes like missing words or misspellings or even adding content. Again I'm swapping the roles of Mei Terumi and Zabuza Momochi, so Mei Jonin and Zabuza de-aged as a Genin. I also decided to add Kaguya, Konan and Rebecca to the upcoming Lemon.

---

-Chapter Eight-

---

*Land of Rivers - Katabami Mines*

Naruto says a silent prayer in front of a small grave for flora and her father with haku doing the same, "May you rest in Peace" he whispers, slowly rising to his feet. The sound of shunshin echoes as the pair look back to see buntan and kaguya, "What happened" buntan asks, her eyes darting between Naruto and Haku.

"An innocent little girl and her father lost their lives to Raiga's allies" haku says, their voice tinged by sadness.

"What about you two" naruto says, rubbing under his nose.

"We encountered a few of Raiga's family but nothing major.. Though this sword is powerful.. I'm sure Yuri-sama will accept the Green April and Black March in place of the Kubikiribocho" buntan says, patting the green april at her side with her other sword.

"You were the lucky ones" naruto says, his eyes downcast. The weight of flora's death presses heavily on his shoulders. Kaguya steps forward as her pale eyes are filled with compassion and she pulls him into a gentle embrace, "Don't blame yourself" she whispers, running her hand up and down his back soothingly. Naruto stiffens for a moment before relaxing into her embrace and closes his eyes, allowing himself this brief moment of comfort.

"She's right.. Blame Raiga" buntan says, her voice low and bitter. Naruto pulls back from kaguya with a small sniffle, "Right... We should find the others and link back up with our Sensei" he says and all of them nod. The four continue on towards the magistrate's place with no issues but soon encounter a thick mist, "This is the Kirigakure no Jutsu" buntan says.

"I hear fighting" kaguya says, before activating her Byakugan and sees nearly thirty people fighting against two.

"Konan and your teammate Zabuza are in trouble" kaguya adds, quickly.

"Let's go then" buntan says with her face set in determination and they rush into the mist, as the mysterious men rush them. Naruto brings to vortex gaze and swings forward but his eyes narrow as he slices through the person, only for them to turn into mist and reform not away from him.

"Huh?!" naruto says, caught off guard by the strange phenomenon. Another attacks from behind as naruto reacts instinctively and beheads him but again becomes mist, "Clones" naruto thought and weaves signs to bird, "Fūton: Toppa" he thought, expelling a heavy gust of wind and blowing the mist away but not the people.

"Something is wrong" kaguya says, hitting her back to naruto and her voice tight with concern. He sees konan, zabuza, haku and buntan fighting nothing with dazed looks on their faces.

"Genjutsu?!" naruto says, his eyes widening in realization.

"How Odd.. You aren't affected by my Dojutsu or my Chakra Ghost Technique" a soft but almost melodic voice drifts through the mist. Kaguya and naruto see a young man with a slightly feminine appearance having chin length purple hair parted in the middle and red eyes. He wears a light-purple shirt with black stripes on each side, a sash around his waist, a pair of dark pants and sandals.

"Who are you and what have you done?!" naruto says, his voice sharp. The young man's lips curve into a small smile, "My name is Ranmaru" he replies, his eyes beginning to glow ominously.

"Naru!" kaguya shouts, grabbing the back of naruto's shirt and leaping away. Several lightning orbs crash into the spot where they had been standing moments before. Naruto sees the lightning orbs came from buntan as they land but have to dodge paper bombs from konan just as quickly, "He controlling them with his Genjutsu.. They must see us as those figures we saw" he says, parrying a sudden attack from zabuza with black march.

"We can't hurt them!" kaguya shouts, bringing out her staff as she dodges a flurry of paper shuriken from konan.

"Then we won't.. Kaguya corral them'" naruto says, setting his sights on ranmaru. Kaguya raises her staff as the four rush the pair and slams her staff down as vines burst from the ground, ensnaring the others and pulling them together as they struggle.

"Clever but futile" ranmaru says, his eyes glowing once again. Konan peels off a few slips of paper and they float to the heads of the others, "You monster" kaguya says, her normally gentle features contorted with anger.

"Perhaps but I am Lord Raiga's Monster" ranmaru says with a small smile, as naruto finishes weaving signs to bird.

"Then meet a Real Monster.. Magen: Hunter's Moon" naruto says, as the world is bathed in a red moon and darkness. Ranmaru looks around as he is no longer near the magistrate's home but in front of a dark ocean, "Is this Genjutsu.. But it feels Real" he says with his composure slipping, while feeling the water pass over his sandals.

"For the Crimes of intending to do harm to what is Mine.. Prepare to face.. Him Who Lies Dreaming" naruto says, seemingly from everywhere and echoing with an otherworldly power. Ranmaru attempts to break naruto's genjutsu with his eyes but fails as he sees a massive and muscular arm burst from the murky ocean. A second arm erupts next and this unease settles on top of ranmaru as the upper-body lifts out of the water. The creature's head is a nightmarish mass of writhing tentacles, perched atop a grotesque and scaly body as rudimentary wings unfurl from its back, dripping with seawater and ichor. Ranmaru's eyes widen in terror with his usually composed demeanor crumbling in the face of this cosmic horror.

"What in Kami's name?!" ranmaru says, his voice trembling as he takes a shuddering breath. The stench of rot and decay assault his nose with the funk of centuries emanating from this primordial entity. The putrid odor spread across the land, intensifying the nightmarish atmosphere. The entitiy leans forward as its red eyes bare a hole through ranmaru as cosmic horrors tears through him. Naruto watches ranmaru clutch his chest and collapse to never rise again as the illusion fades, "Are they ok" he says, turning to kaguya with concern in his voice.

"W-what happened?!" buntan says but sees she is bound by green vines and looking around wildly.

"You were under a Powerful Genjutsu" naruto says, as kaguya frees them and the others awaken. Kaguya and naruto get everyone up to speed as konan explains how they encountered ranmaru but fell victim to his unknown dojutsu, "He managed to enthrall us even if we were aware" konan says, her voice uncharacteristically shaky.

"No matter how many we struck down.. They wouldn't die" zabuza says, his bandaged face creased with frustration.

"Well the caster is dead now" naruto says, looking to ranmaru's body and his tone matter-of-fact with his voice devoid of emotion.

"We should find our Sensei" konan says, her composure returning and worry evident in her amber eyes.

"No need" mei says, appearing with yugao via shunshin.

"Are you all ok" yugao says, concern evident in her voice.

"We are Sensei" naruto says and starts explaining things about tessai, zakuro and ranmaru but also flora and her dad's death. In turn mei explains about dealing with raiga and yugao getting the finishing blow, unfortunately the magistrate has been killed by raiga's gang. The two teams would have remain in town for a few days as the river lord sent a new magistrate, before both teams would say their goodbyes. Team-11 would return to konoha where minato would ask if yugao managed to secure some sort of alliance with kiri but she replies nothing was hammered out. Another three months would go by in the blink of an eye as the time for the chunin exams would soon begin.

シーンブレイク

"What do you think the Chunin Exams will entail" kaguya says, her pale eyes curious as she glanced at her teammates. She is wearing a red blouse and black high waist shorts to her mid-thigh having garter straps to thigh high black stockings and calf length boots that button-up the sides.

"One can wonder but all we know it is Team based" konan says, her voice calm and measured. She is wearing a white dress shirt with a dark blue collar and matching mini-tie. A dark blue low-cut corset vest with high waist black pants and calf length boots that button-up the sides as well. Naruto flips a few pancakes as the others set the table, "Sensei kept things vague" he says, his brow furrowed in concentration. He's wearing dark cargo pants with his kingsglaive boots, a fitted white tank top having skull and chain designs on it. Lastly a faded black, 3/4-length, hooded leather coat with white interior linings and the insomnia flag emblazed on it laying on a chair. The three sit down breakfast and soon finish getting ready for the first round, "I can't wait for Kushina and Rebecca to get here.. Kushina will love Ichiraku Ramen" kaguya says, her rabbit ears twitching slightly. Naruto sets the security system for the house with a little shudder, "Yeah.. Their Ramen is good" he says with a grin. The village is very lively for the exams as ninja from foreign villages, visitors from a variety of countries were descending upon konoha.

"Think all the Major nations will be sending teams" konan says, seeing the diverse group of ninja.

"Possible" naruto says, scanning the crowd.

"Look... It's Samui" kaguya says and points, "Samui" she shouts, waving her arm. The ice cool blonde turns and smiles as she sees team-11, "How Cool to see everyone.. You remember Omoi and Karui" she says, in her usual calm tone. She is wearing a purple-black blouse with the purple as lightning bolts and gray cargo shorts, white thigh-highs with combat boots. Lastly a cobalt blue and black hoodie having white lightning bolts on with cobalt flames as well.

"Hey" karui says with a casual wave. She has long spiky red hair and amber eyes, wearing a long, short-sleeve dress with frilly edges complete with a kumo flak jacket, two simple yellow earrings, fishnet stockings, thigh-high boots with white soles and a hitai-ate like a bandanna.

"Hi" omoi says, offering them lollipops from a small bag he pulls out of his pocket. He has short, spiky, white hair and dark eyes accentuated with eyelashes curving upwards from the corners. He wears a dark overlong shirt with a hood, with red bandage hand guards, kumo shin guards, and a black hitai-ate along with a kumo flak jacket.

"Thanks Omoi.. Still got that sweet tooth huh" naruto says, accepting a lollipop with a grin.

"You never know when a sugar boost might save your life in a tough situation" omoi says with a nod and thoughtful expression on his face.

"I'm not sure that's how it works but I like your thinking" kaguya says, her ears twitching with amusement.

"Are Kushina and Rebecca here" samui says, her cool demeanor tinged with curiosity as the two teams head towards the academy.

"Not until the Finals or a few days before" naruto says, a hint of disappointment in his voice. A few notice how comfortable team-yugito and team-11 were being but didn't voice their opinions, "Naruto Nox Fleuret!" a voice declares, once they were near the academy. The two teams stop to see a konoha team or rather team-gai, "We'll go on ahead" samui says, leaving with her team as they bid them goodbye.

"Can I help you Lee" naruto says calmly, his blue eyes scanning the bowl-cut ninja and his teammates.

"Why are associating with Kumo ninja" neji says, his pale eyes judging them and his voice laced with suspicion. He's wearing a white kimono-shirt with long, loose sleeves, matching pants, a navy-grey apron tied around his waist and black shinobi sandals.

"We met Samui and her friends during our travels.. Your Point" naruto says with his eyebrow raised, unfazed by neji's accusatory tone. Tenten tilts her head with curiosity evident in her expression, "You were in Kumo" she says, as the white brocades over her panda buns blow gently in the wind. She wears a long-sleeve, high-collar white blouse with maroon edges, black fingerless gloves, low-heeled sandals and maroon, puffy hakama-style pants with the exposed parts covered in bandages.

"We traveled to many places" konan comments, her voice calm and collected.

"We even saw a Volcano" kaguya adds with her ears twitching excitedly and liking the taste of her cherry lollipop.

"So if you don't have any point other than National Pride.. We'll go" naruto says, his patience wearing thin.

"Wait a moment.. I wish to fight you Naruto" lee says with his expression determined, wearing a green jumpsuit with orange leg warmers and bandages on his hands to his elbows.

"Why do you wish to fight him now.. You refused to when we met for Kaguya to learn some of the Juken" konan says, her amber eyes narrowing slightly and her voice calm but with a hint of exasperation.

"She's right.. Fighting you now holds no value for me.. Now if you excuse us" naruto says, running a hand through his blond hair. Team-gai watch them leave as neji glares at naruto's back but also kaguya, "Don't worry Lee.. You just need to make it to the Finals to face him" tenten says, her voice reassuring.

"You're right Tenten!.. I will train even harder to ensure our paths cross in the Finals!" lee declares with a nod, his determination undiminished. Team-11 reach the academy as proctors were taking genin's entrance slips but also handing them numbers of one, two or three.

"What are the numbers for" kaguya asks with her ears twitching in curiosity, as they hand in their slips.

"You will be assigned a Floor for the First Round" one proctor curtly replies and hands each their number. Naruto gets three as konan gets one and kaguya two, "Splitting us up for the first round" he says, as they pass through the gates. Once inside do they reach a large hall filled with milling genin from various villages, the air is thick with tension and excitement.

"Must be some sort of test... Well this is me" konan says and her amber eyes scan the diverse crowd, "This is me" she adds, stopping at and give her friends a soft smile.

"Good Luck" naruto says, giving konan a soft hug and kaguya doing the same. Kaguya and naruto head up to the second floor and she says her good luck with a hug but adding a kiss to the cheek.

"What you think your Dad will put in your way" veldora says, a mix of curiosity and concern in the dragon's tone.

"We'll see but it won't stop me" naruto thought, his eyes hardening. He reaches his floor and the room is filled with single members of each team as he sees satsuki, ino, asuka, kiba, zabuza and omoi with a few others standing out as well. One in particular is a suna genin with dark spiky hair, small eyebrows and green eyes having red face paint. He wears a suna flak jacket, a brown full-body outfit that covers his throat and black calf-length shinobi sandals. Lastly a large black coat with a fur collar and the whole thing looks to be made of black sand. Another is a suna kunoichi with teal eyes and sandy blonde hair, gathered into four consecutive pigtails. She wears a purple long-sleeve blouse with a high collar under a grey top, a dark blue skirt with a split in the middle revealing her leggings and fingerless gloves. He also notices ino and kiba have no situational awareness as they were talking loudly, while many genin were glaring at them.

"Yo Nox!" kiba shouts, causing several genin to wince at the volume. Naruto internally sighs as the konoha rookies approach, "Hey Everyone" he says with a neutral tone, also seeing asuka glaring at him from a distance.

"So you have this floor" satsuki says and naruto nods, glancing to see someone watching them. He is a konoha genin with onyx eyes and ash-grey hair in a ponytail with black rimmed circular glasses. He wears a dark purple shirt with a high collar, a white under-shirt, and dark purple pants with a white cloth waistband and dark purple fingerless.

"You should keep it down" the genin says, his voice calm but carrying a hint of warning.

"Who are you?!" kiba snaps, bristling at the unsolicited advice.

"My name is Kabuto Yakushi" the genin says and adjust his glasses, "And well I am your Senior.. So I have a word of advice.. You should be More aware of your surroundings" he adds smoothly and his glasses glinting.

"He's right" naruto says and the rookies finally notice many genin looking at them with unease or barely concealed anger.

"You said you are our Senior.. How many times have you've taken the exams" satsuki says, her tone curious but cautious.

"Well.. Seven times.. They are Not easy but I have gained some valuable information on the competition" kabuto says and pulls out some blank cards, "By channeling my chakra into these cards.. I can give you some Vital information" he adds with a soft chuckle. Naruto watches kabuto closely and his instincts were telling him there is more to this genin than met the eye. Ino's curiosity is piqued and leans in closer to view the cards, "What kind of information do you have" she asked, her blue eyes sparkling with interest.

"Oh all sorts.. Strengths.. Weaknesses.. Mission records.. Is there anyone in particular you'd like to know about" kabuto says with a smile but there is a glint in his eye that naruto couldn't quite place.

"Anyone taking the exams" kiba says and kabuto nods, "Then how about Nox here" kiba adds, with a mischievous grin. Kabuto turns his attention to naruto while kneeling on one knee, "Is Nox your name" kabuto asks, his curiosity evident.

"Naruto Nox Fleuret" naruto says, his voice calm and steady. Kabuto channels chakra into a blank card and it spins until information appears on it, "Let's see.. Naruto Nox Fleuret on Team-11 with Konan Atsuko and Kaguya Otsuki.. 1 D-rank.. 9 C-ranks and 1 B-rank.. Son of the Fourth Hokage and the Oracle Lunafreya Nox Fleuret" he says, his words causing a ripple of murmurs among the listening genin. Naruto's face remains impassive but internally is on high alert at the level of detail in kabuto's information is concerning.

"How about him" kiba says and oblivious of naruto's thoughts, while pointing to the suna shinobi. He approaches with the suna kunoichi, "My name is Shinki.. Tell me what you know" he says, his green eyes intense. Kabuto does the same again and shinki's info appears, "Shinki Yuto.. 25 D-rank.. 12 C-ranks and 4 B-rank.. Possesses the Jiton Kekkei Genkai" kabuto says and naruto's eyes narrow.

"He knows info from foreign villages that wouldn't be actively broadcasted" veldora says, echoing in the blond's mind.

"How about Omoi Kawamoto" naruto says and omoi is about to speak but the blond covers his mouth, before kabuto does the same again about omoi.

"This screams a Spy but for who" veldora comments, resonating in naruto's mind.

"Don't forget Oto.. You wannabe Genin" a voice interjects and all of them look left. A shinobi from oto is sneering at them with arrogance in his eyes. He has spiky, black hair and dark eyes, wearing a beige shirt with two black stripes and three prints of the kanji for death on the front. A snake-pattern scarf around his neck and matching pants with a happuri hitai-ate.

"Though Boorish.. Zaku is correct" an oto kunoichi says, in cold but calm tone. She has fair skin, dark eyes and light blue hair in a spiky ponytail with long strands of hair framing her face. She wears a teal short kimono with a grey turtleneck and short sleeves having a jade-green rope belt around her waist, red shorts, light purple wrist bands and navy blue sandals. Kiba glares heatedly at the two oto ninja and is about to shut zaku up but several puffs of smoke erupt to reveal several dressed in gray uniforms.

"Fighting is not allowed.. So sit down and Shut up" one says and the genin take their seats with naruto next to satsuki.

"My name Mara and I am Proctor for the First Round of Chunin Exams" the lead proctor says and clears her throat, "The First Round is a written test... Now only teams with a combined score of 250-points will pass to the second round" mara says and pauses for effect, "Meaning each member Must score a minimum of 83-points" she adds, causing everyone to murmur. The room erupts into hushed whispers and worried glances. Naruto's blue eyes scan the room, noting the mix of anxiety and determination on the faces of his fellow genin but could feel the tension rising, almost palpable in the air. Naruto looks down at his paper as he touches his neck with his right hand, "Can you hear me" he thought, using a little of his magic.

"I can" konan relays, her calm voice echoing in his mind.

"Same here" kaguya says, her lilting tones following shortly after.

"You heard the rules" naruto thought, his mental voice tinged with a hint of amusement.

"It's a clever way to test one intelligence but also the trust in their teammates" konan relays, her response thoughtful.

"If you have an idiot on your team and they score poorly.. Your team fails" kaguya says, her mental voice carrying a mix of concern and determination.

"Alright.. You have one hour to complete your test and If you are caught cheating.. You and your team will be disqualified... Now Begin" mara declares, her authoritative voice cutting through the room and the test begins. The sound of rustling papers fills the air as the genin turn over their tests. Naruto's eyes quickly scan the questions with his brow furrowing slightly.

"However Eighty-three times Three is Two-Hundred and Forty-nine.. So even if your team scores the minimum.. You still fail.. So at least one has score Eighty-four or above to pass" naruto thought, amusement in his tone.

"And being on different floors.. You can't tell your teammates.. They even added this cheating aspect" veldora comments, his voice rumbling in the blond's mind. Naruto looks around the room and sees many were starting to struggle on their tests, "The questions are not out of the wheelhouse of an Academy graduate.. However the pressure of your teammates potentially scoring too low is affecting some" he thought, his mental voice calm despite the tension in the air. He looks around the room and sees others subtly cheating in various ways under the watchful eyes of the proctors, "Good luck you two" naruto thought hoping they were faring well on their respective floors.

"Seems the temperature is changing subtly" veldora says, as naruto glances to see satsuki using her Sharingan. Slowly genin were being caught and escorted out by proctors as time ticks by. The time limit soon comes to an end as mara looks around the room as other proctors rise from their seats.

"I have an Addendum for this test" mara says and looks over the genin, "You don't have to do it... However know that if you do and fail this Addendum.. You will remain a Genin Forever" she declares, shocking many in the room.

"Are you serious?!" a genin shouts, his voice cracking with disbelief. Mara's stern expression didn't falter, "Dead Serious.. Now again you don't have to take this Addendum.. That way you can take the next exam... So if you wish to forgo the Addendum.. Raise your hand" she says, a smirk on her face and a gleam in her blue eyes. The tension in the room is palpable as genin exchange nervous glances, their minds racing with the weight of the decision before them. Some fidget in their seats and others sit stock-still while frozen by indecision. Shinki's eyes narrowed slightly across the room, his arms crossed as he considers the proctor's words. The black sand of his coat ripples subtly and reflecting his inner turmoil. Satsuki is sitting next to naruto but keeps her gaze fixed on mara. Her dark eyes were calculating and trying to discern any hidden meaning behind the proctor's words.

"I can't do this" one thought, raising her hand and more follow. One by one do genin make their choice to forgo the addendum, preferring the safety of another chance at the exam over the risk of permanent genin status. As the first few were escorted out does the pressure on those remaining intensify. Ino bites her lip with her hand twitching as if considering raising it, "This is too much" she mutters under her breath. Mara looks around the room and sees a few cool genin like naruto or shinki, "Lord Yondaime's kid" she thought, noting his calm demeanor amidst the chaos.

"Anymore" mara declares with a hint of challenge and no one moves, "Then... You all passed" she says, her smirk widening. A stunned silence falls over the room, quickly followed by a burst of confused exclamations.

"We passed?!.. What do you mean?!" ino says, her blue eyes wide with disbelief. Mara's stern expression softens slightly, "This First Round was a test of your resolve and trust of your teammates.. As we speak my fellow proctors are giving the same speech" mara says and clears her throat, "Now the Second Round will take place in Training Ground 44.. The proctors will guide you" she adds with a steady tone. The genin exchange looks of surprise and relief. Some slump in their seats, the tension finally leaving their bodies, while others sat up straighter and pride evident in their postures.

シーンブレイク

"So we have spend at most Five days inside" kaguya says, her eyes scanning the area. Team-11 were standing with the other genin as anko explains about the second round of survival but also having two armbands called heaven and earth.

"Listen up maggots!.. Your objective is to collect both armbands.. Killing is allowed.. So don't expect any hand-holding!" anko shouts, her voice carrying across the field.

"Well we've survived worse" konan says, her amber eyes fixed on anko. The proctor is now demonstrating her point by slicing kiba's cheek and licking his blood, much to the inuzuka's disgust or fear. Naruto looks around the field of genin and the numbers have thinned some but the major teams were still in play.

"I sense my kin" veldora says and naruto looks around, seeing a redhead standing with his arms crossed by temari. He has raccoon like dark circles over his teal eyes, wearing long-sleeve crimson coat and full-length dark trousers. Over the coat is two buckle belts, a grey vest held in place by a single strap over his left shoulder and suna sandals.

"That's him alright" veldora says, his arms folded in the blond's mind. Naruto and the redhead lock eyes for a moment and the latter's eyes promised death, "One doesn't compare to Nine though" naruto thought and veldora laughs loudly. He goes back to scanning the field and sees zaku with his team, both wearing snake-patterned clothes. One is a girl with long black hair having a purple bow and the other is a guy covered in bandages with a straw poncho. They were speaking to the other oto team and these three give off the air of seasoned dealers of death. The kunoichi didn't declare her name like zaku but clearly could boss him and his team around. The second of her team is tall with spiky orange hair and a gentle facade on his face but something lurks behind his red-orange eyes, his form hidden by a black cloak.

"But him.. He has my attention" naruto thought, a faint smile playing on his face. He clearly is the leader of the three with his vivid green eyes looking down on and through everyone, his shoulder-length white hair divided down the middle on his head with two separate partings on either side of his face and two red, tube-like hair ornaments on both sides. He is wearing a light lavender, loose-fitting, long-sleeve, zip-up shirt, black pants cut off around mid-calf, bandages wrapped around his ankles, traditional shinobi sandals and a purple, rope-like belt tied in an inverted bow.

"Two possible targets of interest" naruto thought, following konan and kaguya to get their armband.

"That's him Kimimaro.. Guren" zaku whispers to his teammates.

"Do we kill him in the forest" guren says, her voice tinged with anticipation.

"The contract specifically said in the Finals for all to see" kimimaro says, his voice low and measured.

"What about the Uchiha twins" zaku's teammate Dosu says, his single visible eye narrowing.

"She's not bad looking" zaku's other teammate Kin says, a hint of appreciation in her voice.

"They are off limits for now.. Lord Orochimaru has another target" guren says, glancing to a certain kusa team and sees a subtle nod from one. Time ticks by as each team get their armband and are assigned to one of the various gates to enter the forest, the atmosphere growing tense with anticipation.

"Do we head for the tower quickly and ambush a team for a Earth armband" kaguya says, her white eyes scanning the perimeter. Naruto considers for a moment with his blue eyes thoughtful, "We'll see how things shake out.. Let's stay flexible and adapt to the situation" he says, adjusting his headband.

"Good idea. We don't know what we're walking into." konan says, nodding in agreement. A proctor unlocks the chain on the gate after they check their watch, "Five Minutes Genin" they say, slipping a set of keys in their pocket. The air grows thick with tension as the teams prepare themselves. Some shift nervously and others wear expressions of fierce determination. The horn blares loudly and the gates open as teams rush inside the bleak forest, some with cruel intentions for some genin.

[Music: Escape the Fate - One For The Money]

It has been twenty minutes since team-11 have entered the forest but one could listen closely and they would hear the screams of other teams, "You two are lucky" kaguya says, with her ears picking up sounds imperceptible to her teammates. Naruto raises his hand as he lands on branch and a lance forms, before leaping and flinging it forward with incredible force. The weapon whistles through the air, piercing through a tree and embedding itself in the stomach of an ame shinobi wearing a yellow jumpsuit. The force of the throw pins the unfortunate ninja to another tree behind him.

"Bastard!" his teammates roar with their faces contorted with rage. Konan explodes into paper bombs and attach to one of the ninja. The ame shinobi's eyes widen in horror just before the tags detonate and engulfing him in a fiery explosion. Kaguya appears in front of the second shinobi, "Rabbit Style: Crushing Impact!" she announces, connecting with a devastating dropkick. The impact is thunderous and caves in the ame ninja's chest and sending him crashing through several branches before he hits the forest floor but unmoving. Konan approaches the pinned ame ninja with her amber eyes scanning his belongings, "Another Heaven" she says, holding up the armband.

"We'll keep it on us in case we run into Samui" naruto says, before manifesting his sawed-off double barrel shotgun and firing up to create an explosion.

"Kekehaha.. Nice reflexes" a voice says, filled with amusement and a hint of malice. Naruto rests his rifle on his left shoulder as three iwa shinobi appear in front of them, all wearing the stock iwa uniform with either one or both sleeves.

"Can I help you" naruto says, his tone casual but tinged with sarcasm.

"We finally going to get revenge on the Yondaime by killing his son" one says, having a nondescript build and his eyes blazing in hatred. Naruto sighs with a shake of his head as he dispels his rifle, "Killing me won't solve your issues.. His Precious daughters are in this forest.. Go after them" he says while shooing them away, as if dismissing a group of annoying children.

"We kill you and then them" a second shouts, the largest of the three. Naruto sighs once again and slips off his coat with a toss to konan, "Want help" she asks, her amber eyes fixed on the iwa shinobi.

"I appreciate the offer but I can handle this on my own" naruto says, slipping on some black gloves. The first wastes no time and rushes naruto as the large one coats his arms in rocks, the sound of grinding stone filling the air. The third dug their left hand into a pouch, likely reaching for some kind of weapon or jutsu component.

"Die" the first shouts swinging a left straight, shockingly creating an explosion that engulfs naruto. He cackles like a hyena but it dies in his throat as a shield is protecting naruto, "Ranton: Laser Arrow" naruto says, his voice steady and controlled. A brilliant beam of light forms in his hand, condensing into an arrow-like shape. The storm arrow tears through the air with a flick of naruto's wrist, its speed almost impossible to follow. The first ninja didn't even have time to scream as the arrow pierces his chest, leaving a clean hole where his heart used to be. He collapses to the ground, his eyes still wide with shock.

"You'll pay for that!" the second ninja bellows, swinging his stone fists wildly. Naruto dodges each attack with fluid grace, his movements almost dance-like. As he weaves between the rock-enhanced punches, his hands once again form signs and inhales deeply.

"Ranton: Final Shine" naruto thought, expelling a beam of energy from his mouth. The forest is illuminated by the intense light, casting long shadows across the trees and when the light fades, there is nothing left of the ninja but a scorched patch of earth and his legs. This freezes the third from using his clay bomb as naruto appears with arm surging with lightning, "Raiton: Clothesline from Hell" naruto says, connecting a devastating clothesline. There is a sickening crack as the ninja's windpipe is crushed and he crashes to the ground, gasping for air that would never come. The sounds of battle die down as kaguya furrows her brow and gives him a look of slightly reproachful look and naruto gives her a sheepish look

"Hopefully these two have the armband as they aren't completely eviscerated" kaguya says, checking the two remaining bodies for the earth armband and strike it rich as the one with his crushed windpipe.

"Well let's head to tower" naruto says, turning to konan ass he is holding his coat. Konan hands the coat back to naruto with a hint of concern in her amber eyes, "You sure.. We've barely been in here for an hour" she asks as naruto slips the coat on.

"Yeah.. This is a big forest.. If we meet up on someone.. We'll deal with it" naruto says while adjusting his collar. The three of them leap into the trees, their movements synchronized as they head towards the center of the forest of death. A few minutes pass before team-10 emerge from the shrubbery, "Was that real?!" choji says, his voice trembling. The usually jovial akimichi looks as if he might be sick, his hand clutching his stomach. The three members of team-10 have just witnessed six genin be killed in manner of minutes and despite knowing deaths were involved, it was still a shock to the system. However for tsubaki it is recognition as she saw the coat naruto was wearing, "Could my rival Vortex Heart be Naruto Nox Fleuret?!" she thought, her mind racing. She challenged the leader of the vortex royals on several occasions and failed each time but it inspired her to attempt to add the skills of a ninja to her repertoire.

"What will we do Ino" tsubaki asks, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her mind.

"We avoid Naruto's team and try to find a Earth armband.. Also try to survive in this Damn forest" ino says, her voice gaining strength. In another part of the forest does a blood-curdling scream echo as azula clutches her shoulder as a three comma mark form on her skin.

"KuKuKu... I do hope you enjoy my gift Princess Azula" orochimaru's voice rings out, filled with malicious glee. The snake sannin stands over the fallen forms of asuka and hinata, his golden eyes gleaming with satisfaction. Azula writhes on the ground and her body is wracked with pain, "What... What did you do to me?!" she gasp, glaring at orochimaru through tear-filled eyes. Orochimaru's tongue flicks out and tastes the air, "I've given you power my dear.. Power to kill Naruto" he said, his voice dripping with false sweetness. Azula's eyes widen with a mix of pain and intrigue flashing across her face, "Kill... Naruto?!" she gasps, her breath coming in ragged pants. The snake sannin's golden eyes gleam with malicious delight, "Yes my child.. With this gift.. You can crush him like the nothing he is.. He's overshadowed you since returning hasn't he.. Now's your chance to prove your are superior in every way" orochimaru purrs, his words slithering into azula's mind.

"Think about it Princess.. Embrace the power and show everyone who truly deserves to be called a prodigy" orochimaru continues, his voice growing distant. Azula clutches her wound with the burning sensation spreading through her body. The notion of killing naruto is intoxicating and he opens her mouth to respond but the words caught in her throat as a wave of pain washes over her. Orochimaru's form begins to melt, dissolving into a puddle of mud. The last thing she sees is his golden eyes, burning with anticipation, before her vision blurs and darkness claims her. As azula slips into unconsciousness, her mind swirls with the desire for power. But these thoughts fade as the curse mark pulses, sending her deeper into a fitful sleep. [song ends]

シーンブレイク

About an hour passes since the beginning of the second round and team-11 were taking a break after dealing with some large leeches, "How much further to the tower" naruto asks, spinning a valiant pistol in his hand. The forest around them is eerily quiet, save for the occasional rustling of leaves and distant animal cries. Kaguya is in a high tree with her Byakugan active as konan is sitting on naruto's shoulders, "Still about Three Kilometers away" kaguya says, her voice carrying easily to her teammates below.

"If we make there by the end of the day.. I wonder if we can go back into the forest or have to remain the Tower" konan says, her fingers absently playing with Naruto's blond hair.

"Not sure.. I hope they have decent food" naruto muses, squeezing her thighs gently as konan snorts but taps his head.

"Stop enjoying my thighs" konan admonishes, though there's no real heat in her voice.

"Can't help it.. Your thighs feel good against my skin" naruto replies, his voice low and teasing. His hands gently squeezing konan's thighs once again, sending a small shiver up her spine. Konan's cheeks flush slightly at his bold comment with a mix of embarrassment and pleasure coursing through her. She lightly taps his head and her fingers lingering for a moment in his blond hair, "Behave yourself," she admonishes, but there's a playful undertone to her voice. Naruto chuckles softly, enjoying the warmth of konan's body against his. He's about to make another flirtatious comment when kaguya's voice cuts through their moment.

"I hate to interrupt.. But we should remain alert.. This forest is full of dangers.. Both from other teams and the environment itself" kaguya says, her white eyes scanning the surrounding forest but before both could respond.

"Well.. Well.. Well.. Look who it is" zaku says, landing in front of naruto and konan with dosu and kin landing beside him. The atmosphere immediately tenses as kaguya swiftly descends from her perch to stand next to her teammates. Konan gracefully hops off naruto's shoulders, her stance shifting subtly into a battle-ready position. A small stand-off begins to make itself known, with both teams eyeing each other warily. Naruto's hand tightens almost imperceptibly on his pistol, while zaku's fingers twitch and ready to unleash his sound-based attacks.

"We don't have to fight.. We have a extra Heaven Armband" kaguya says, trying to be a diplomat and holding up a armband. The tension in the air thickens as zaku's eyes narrow, a lecherous grin spreading across his face. His gaze rakes over kaguya's form and lingering on her rabbit-like features.

"Fuck you Rabbit.. Better yet Fuck me instead.. You Fucking Animal" zaku says, his voice dripping with malice. A chill goes up dosu and kin's spine as naruto slowly rises to his feet, "You must be tired of living Zaku.. If you decided to not only suggest my Girlfriend have sex with you.. However most egregious is calling her a fucking animal" naruto says, his voice cold and cutting. Zaku raises his hands forward with a wide grin on his face as they open to reveal small openings in his palms, "She will and is.. Zan..." he shouts but suddenly he's looking at his body from a flipped perception as dosu and kin have moved back. Dosu swings his melody arm towards naruto but kaguya hits him with a dropkick, sending him into a tree with a thud and gasping for air as konan surrounds kin in paper but leaves room for her to breath.

"I-I can barely breath" dosu thought, struggling to sit up against the damaged tree. Blood seeps through the bandages around his mouth, a testament to the internal damage he's suffered.

"Now then.. Some time ago I passed through the Land of Sound and several Mercs tried to kidnap me for their Master" naruto says and points vortex pain, "You are going to tell me Who that is" he adds, his voice eerily calm.

"I-I-I don't know" dosu says, the bandage around his mouth turning a deeper shade of red as he coughs.

"You don't know or you refuse to tell me.. Meaning this Master is powerful to inspire such fear" naruto says and looks to kin, "How about you.. Want to answer my question" he adds, his eyes on kin's paper prison. Kin couldn't see naruto's face but the killer intent he is leaking is palpable, "I-if I tell you.. W-will you spare me" she says, her voice trembling. Naruto considers her words for a moment, his expression unreadable. The forest around them seems to hold its breath, waiting for his response.

"You have my word" naruto says, as konan removes the paper from her face.

"I-it's O-orochimaru" kin says, her voice barely above a whisper. Kin's body seizes up violently suddenly, her eyes widening in shock and pain as blood begins to trickle from her nose, ears and mouth. Konan quickly releases her paper jutsu and kin falls limply to the ground, her eyes wide and unseeing. Naruto's hand instinctively moves to grip his sword, "Could it be?!" he exclaims, his blue eyes widening with a mix of surprise and realization.

"Curse Magic.. Lady Crowe told me about it.. It can be used to keep secrets.. She may not have known" kaguya says, kneeling to close kin's eyes.

"So Orochimaru knows Curse Magic or has a Mage in his forces" naruto says, turning back to dosu but he has already passed on. Naruto dispels his sword and kneels to turn kin on her back before placing her hands on her stomach, "We'll bury her.. She deserves that" he says and both nod, as konan uses her paper to cover kin's body before naruto seals her away. Team-11 would leave dosu and zaku to the beasts of the forest to make the last legs to the tower, the sun has already set on their arrival as one of the Anbu greets them with a weasel mask and black hair in a low ponytail.

"Congratulation on making it" weasel says, his voice muffled slightly by the mask.

"Are we one of the first" kaguya asks, her ears perking up with interest.

"No unfortunately.. Both Suna Teams have arrived" weasel says, his voice neutral.

"Can we return to the forest.. Now that we have arrived" konan asks, her tone casual but laced with curiosity and her eyes narrowing at the information.

"No.. Teams will have to remain inside the tower" weasel says, his posture rigid and professional with all three slowly nodding. Another Anbu but this one is wearing a boar mask that appears silently beside them, "Follow me.. I'll show you to the mess hall.. Medical room if needed and your accommodations for the duration of your stay" boar says, their voice soft but authoritative. The team follows their guide through the tower's winding corridors. The interior is surprisingly well-lit and maintained, a stark contrast to the dangerous forest outside. They pass by the mess hall, a large room filled with long tables and the aroma of freshly cooked food. The medical room is equipped with various supplies and staffed by medic-nin, is pointed out next. Finally do they arrive at a simple door and boar opens it, revealing a modest room with a single large bed and basic furnishings.

"This will be your room" boar informs them before departing silently. Naruto steps inside with his blue eyes scanning the space. He nods to himself before turning to his teammates, "You two take the bed.. I'll take a sleeping bag" naruto says, already reaching for a sleeping bag stored in a corner. Kaguya's lips curl into a mischievous smile, "We can all fit in one bed.. We can keep out hands to ourselves" kaguya says, giggling and naruto sighs. Team-11's time in the tower is a quiet one as teams would reach the tower in staggering rates with samui's team arriving around mid-day on the second day.

"Rough time out there" naruto asks, approaching their table in the mess hall and all three looking tired but satisfied. Samui looks up with her cool blue eyes meeting his, "It was... Challenging.. But nothing we couldn't handle" she admits, a hint of respect in her voice. The days progress as the konoha rookies and team-gai would trickle in the same with kimimaro's team but it was during the night of the fourth day did naruto get a rude awakening. Loud knocking echoes outside naruto's room and snaps the blond awake from a very erotic dream. He was having sex orgy with a very much older kaguya having brown horns and a third eye, his aunt tsunade, shizune, anko and even the girl from team-gai but also they were all vampires.

"Good thing there were no Nocturnal Emissions" veldora says, his voice echoes in his mind and tinged with amusement. Naruto grumbles while carefully extricate himself from between konan and kaguya. He opens the door to kakashi with a serious look on his hidden face, "Follow me" kakashi says without preamble.

"Why" naruto says, still groggy and rubbing some sleep from his eye.

"Now Genin" kakashi repeats, his tone brooking no argument. Naruto grabs some pants and follows kakashi to one the upper rooms of the tower, "What is this about" naruto asks but kakashi says silent. Soon kakashi opens a door and naruto sees a seated minato inside with a concerned look on his face, "Come in Naruto" minato says, his voice soft but strained.

"What do you want" naruto says, hands in his pockets as he enters. His voice is neutral but there's an undercurrent of tension in his words.

"I need your help.. Azula is in danger" minato says and naruto tilts his head, "I know you removed Anko Mitarashi's Curse-mark... I need you to do the same for Azula" he adds, looking his son in the eye. A tense silence fills the room but naruto breaks it with a snort into a laugh, "Are you serious" he says, disbelief evident in his voice.

"Show some respect to your Hokage" kakashi says, his tone sharp and his eyes narrowing. Naruto glances back to kakashi and back to his old man with a point, "All my life I was a disappointment to him.. His Son could Only do wrong but his Precious daughters could do No wrong... Yet now he needs me" naruto says, his voice taking on a bitter edge.

"Naruto.. She could die" minato says, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Aren't you and your Sensei not a Seal Masters.. Why do you need me.. Is it because I have a skill you want to exploit" naruto says, his expression hardening and his tone challenging.

"Sealing it away and waiting for Jiraiya-sensei will do her no good.. When you can simply remove it like Anko" minato says, a note of urgency in his voice. Naruto stands there for a moment, his blue eyes searching minato's face. The room is thick with tension, the weight of years of neglect and resentment hanging between them but the younger blond breaks the silence.

"Speaking of Anko.. Why didn't you remove it for her.. I'm sure you both studied it but she still had it" naruto says but minato remains silent, "Is it because you didn't Trust her.. She was Orochimaru's apprentice.. So she had to Earn her freedom" he adds, his voice taking on a sharper edge and his eyes never leaving minato's.

"Naruto" minato says, a hint of warning in his tone and his hands clenching in his lap desk with his knuckles turning white.

"You want me to save your Daughter.. When you always refused save your Son... To you I was nothing but an afterthought.. A reminder of what could have been I guess but Now I am useful to you.. You want me to save your daughter.. I have No obligation to help Azula.. You and your Sensei can do it" naruto says, his eyes flashing with barely contained anger and his voice raising slightly. Minato shoots up from his chair with it scraping against the floor, "I am Ordering you to remove the Curse-mark from Azula" he says, his voice firm and authoritative.

"I refuse" naruto says without hesitation and kakashi grabs him by the front to his shirt. Naruto locks eyes with the lone eye of kakashi and his expression is cold but also defiant, "Let me go Hatake" naruto says, his voice low and dangerous but kakashi ignores him as he reaches for his hitai-ate.

"Kakashi!" minato says and kakashi lets the blond go, "Naruto.. I can pay you for your services of helping Azula" he adds, his voice softer now and almost pleading.

"Give me my Inheritance" naruto says, his tone leaving no room for negotiation. Minato's shoulders slump with defeat written across his face, "I can't Naruto.. There are rules in place" he says, his voice barely above a whisper and falling back in his chair.

"Then you have my answer... Now I am going back to bed" naruto says and turns on his heels but stops at the door, "One more thing Lord Yondaime.. I know this isn't an Ideal situation but to uphold certain ideals.. You have to accept less than ideal outcomes for those who don't deserve it.. The village Must come before Everything.. Even Family" he adds, throwing his own father's words back at him before leaving.

"Sensei.. He's committing treason.. He should be stripped of his rank and locked up" kakashi says, his voice tight with barely contained fury. Minato clenches his fist in anger and rises to his feet, "Kakashi.. Seal the Curse-mark and inform the Anbu to find Orochimaru at all cost" he says and vanishes in a yellow flash.

"You sure it is wise to try and piss him off" veldora says, giving the blond a look from his mindscape.

"Maybe it is childish but the Nerve of that man.. If it was someone other his Daughter.. He wouldn't blink at all" naruto says, his voice low.

"True but remember.. Sometimes the long game is more satisfying than immediate gratification" veldora says, humming thoughtfully.

"Point taken.. We'll see how this plays out" naruto concedes, a small smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. The last day of the second round ends with no real fanfare as thirty-six survivors were in large arena having a balcony around the length with a small raised section having a pair stone arms in the ram-sign. Minato stands before the assembled genin, his face a mask of composure despite the turmoil of recent events. His voice carries across the arena as he begins his speech, touching on the real reason for the chunin exams.

"These exams are more than just a test of your individual skills.. They are a substitute for war.. A way for our nations to showcase their strength without bloodshed. But they are also about Pride... Pride in your abilities.. Pride in your village and Pride in your country" minato explains, his blue eyes scanning the crowd of genin with their jonin behind him. The genin listen with varying degrees of interest like naruto, wearing an expressions of polite indifference, while others hang on every word as minato continues, outlining the structure of the upcoming finals.

"The finals will be a multi-day affair.. However only half of you will be able to participate.. This means we will need to hold preliminary matches to determine who will advance" minato announces, his voice echoing off the stone walls. A murmur ripples through the genin at this news but minato raises a hand, calling for silence before continuing.

"Furthermore and Unfortunately.. One of you will be fighting two matches back-to-back in the finals" minato adds, his gaze sweeping across the assembled genin. As minato's speech comes to an end, the atmosphere in the arena is charged with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The genin exchange glances, sizing up potential opponents and contemplating the challenges that lie ahead.

"Now I will turn things over to Anko and the board above to choose the prelim matches" minato says, with his gaze drifting to azula. The hokage's princess looks exhausted from the sealing and her experiences in the forest but determination burns in her eyes. She catches her father's concerned look and straightens her posture, unwilling to show weakness. Minato's eyes then move to Naruto, and a flicker of anger rises within him. He never hated his son but a hate has been born as he now sees naruto similar to cersei's view of him, that being a potential threat, unpredictable and dangerous.

"The Odds will be against you Naruto.. Even if you think have Lord Ieyasu as an ally" minato thought, moving to the balcony above the stone arms. The board cycles through the names comes to halt on kankuro and misumi, "Alright.. Everyone head to the balcony.. Kankuro.. Misumi.. You two stay" anko declares, her voice carrying across the arena.

"The rules of the Forest still apply but if I call a stop.. You Stop" anko adds with her tone serious and both nod. The match that follows is a rather underwhelming affair. Misumi displays an unusual skill of dislocating his joints to wrap around kankuro like a snake and for a moment, it seems he has the upper hand but his victory is short-lived.

"Got you now" misumi hisses, tightening his grip on what he believes to be kankuro. A muffled chuckle escapes from within misumi's grasp, "Are you sure about that" kankuro's voice sounding oddly hollow. Suddenly does the figure in misumi's grip crumbles away, revealing a wooden puppet. The real kankuro emerges from the bandaged bundle on the ground, his fingers dancing as he controls his puppet.

"Poison needles" kankuro announces with a smirk, as tiny senbon shoot out from the puppet's joints. Misumi's eyes widen in shock as he feels the poison enter his system and he collapses to the ground, his body twitching uncontrollably.

"Winner: Kankuro" anko declares, her voice tinged with a hint of disappointment at the quick end to the match. As the medics rush to treat misumi does the board above flickers to life once more and this time, displays the names temari and tenten. The two kunoichi face each other in the arena, determination etched on both their faces but it quickly becomes apparent that this match too is grossly mismatched. Tenten unleashes a barrage of weapons from her scrolls unfurling in an impressive display, "Take this!" she shouts, sending a hail of kunai and shuriken towards temari. The suna kunoichi merely smirks, unfurling her massive fan and with a single sweep, creates a gust of wind that not only deflects tenten's weapons but sends them hurtling back towards her.

"Is that all you've got?!" temari taunts, her voice carrying across the arena. Tenten grits her teeth, frustration evident on her face as she tries technique after technique, only to have each one effortlessly countered by temari's wind jutsu. The match ends with a final but powerful gust from temari's fan. Tenten is caught in the vortex and is sent spinning through the air. She lands hard on temari's outstretched fan, back first and the impact knocking the breath from her lungs.

"Tenten!" lee cries out, leaping down from the balcony to aid his fallen teammate. Temari scoffs and knocks tenten off her fan with a smirk, "If this is the best Konoha has to offer.. I'm not impressed" she says, her voice dripping with disdain. As lee helps tenten to her feet, while shooting a glare at temari, the atmosphere in the arena grows tense. The easy victories of the suna siblings have sent a clear message that they are not to be underestimated. Up on the balcony does naruto watch the proceedings with a calculating gaze. His mind is already working, analyzing the techniques displayed and formulating potential strategies.

"Looks like I am first" konan says, seeing her name and asuka of all people after the board cycles through names.

"Try not to hurt her too bad" naruto says, a small smile playing on his lips and his tone light. Konan makes down the stairs as asuka does the same as many of the konoha rookies were whispering about this fight, even a few of the jonin were as well.

"Who do you think will take this" asuma says, his voice low.

"Konan is a relative unknown but Asuka has been trained by some of the best" kurenai says, glancing to roki as he stands impassively.

"Let the match Begin" anko declares, her voice rings out. Asuka immediately backpedals several steps but tosses a few shuriken as she does and konan parries them away with paper shuriken of her own. A few slips of paper peel away from konan's body and form butterflies as she sends them forth while asuka counters with kunai and weaving signs, making them multiply to take down the butterflies.

"Kami Shigure" konan says, her voice calm as she spreads her arms wide. A barrage of paper projectiles erupts from her body, filling the air with a deadly storm. Asuka swaps with a log and weaves signs to hare, "Suiton: Mizurappa" she says, releasing a powerful jet of water from her mouth. Konan gracefully backflips several times as she narrowly avoids the water jutsu, "Impressive" she murmurs, her amber eyes scanning asuka's stance. Asuka lands in a crouch with her breathing slightly labored, "I'm just getting started" she growls, sprinting forward with renewed determination. The konoha kunoichi launches into a four-piece combo, her movements fluid and precise. Konan finds herself on the defensive but she counters each in a graceful dance.

"Stay still!" asuka grunts, frustration evident in her voice as she sends a left hook towards konan's face. Konan catches the punch with her expression impassive, "Your anger makes you predictable" she says softly, countering with her own strike. Asuka manages to catch konan's fist and the two kunoichi find themselves locked in a test of strength with their eyes meeting, determination burning in both gazes. Azula watches her twin sister attempt to overpower konan as this voice whispers dark thoughts, "Don't lose to one of Them Asuka" azula thought, her fists clenching unconsciously. Konan frees one of hands and connects with a gut shot that sends asuka staggering back several steps but she quickly recovers, clutching her left arm as a spiraling orb forms in her hand.

"What's that?!" sakura exclaims from the balcony, her green eyes wide with surprise.

"The Rasengan.. Signature of Lord Yondaime" kakashi says, a hint of pride in his voice. Asuka rushes forward and shoots the orb forward, "Rasengan" she declares, slamming it into konan's chest and seemingly attaining victory but konan explodes into paper.

"What?!" asuka gasps, her eyes darting around frantically.

"Shikigami no Mai" konan says, swirling around asuka and suddenly trapping her in a cocoon of sheets. Asuka falls back as konan reforms with a lance of paper, "Surrender" konan says, coldly with only half her face formed. Asuka grits her teeth with frustration and disappointment evident in her eyes, "I... I yield" she manages to say, her voice tight with suppressed emotion. Konan releases asuka as anko declares her the winner but could see the heated glare from azula but also roki. Azula's eyes burn with a mixture of anger and disappointment, while roki's gaze holds a calculating coldness.

"You won" kaguya says, once konan reaches them and the tension in the air.

"And pissed of my sister and one of my dad's lap dogs" naruto muses, a wry smile on his face. A few proctors clean up the water left by asuka as kankuro makes his way towards naruto's team, "Nice match" kankuro says, with a similar eye-smile to kakashi. Naruto ignores kankuro's fishing and sets his sight on kimimaro's team across from his own, his eyes closed as nothing seems to piqué his interest and his large friend next to him with a calm facade. Among the genin only he, kaguya, konan, kimimaro, his large friend, guren, shiniki and gaara were genin in name only.

"Samui could be in this conversation but I haven't seen her fight in years" naruto thought, glancing to his cool blue beauty. The time comes for the next match and it is a lackluster affair as satsuki faces yoroi, showing of his ability to siphon chakra through his hands. The uchiha moves with fluid grace as her strikes are fast and precise. Even when yoroi manages to grab her arm as she doesn't panic but instead, uses the momentum to her advantage, pulling off an enzuigiri kick that connects solidly with yoroi's head. The impact is enough to knock yoroi out cold, ending the match decisively in satsuki's favor.

"Winner: Satsuki Uchiha!" anko announces, her voice carrying a hint of approval. Satsuki makes her way back to the balcony as naruto overhears snippets of conversation from konoha's rookies.

"Did you see that kick?!.. Satsuki is so cool!" ino exclaims, her blue eyes wide with admiration. Sakura nods enthusiastically as her green eyes shine with pride and admiration for her friend, "She didn't even need to use her Sharingan" she says, a warm smile spreading across her face.

"Kukuku.. Though short.. She is quite skilled.. I would prefer Sasuke but attaining his sister to Breed me a veritable army of Uchiha is more preferably" the disguised orochimaru thought, his gaze on the uchiha heiress. The board cycles again to land on azula and sakura as the princess of konoha smirks, "Watch and Learn Sister" azula says, as she would confidently crush the civilian girl. Sakura makes her way down and she is weary to face azula, the former kunoichi of the year but also daughter of the hokage.

"Begin" anko says, her voice sharp and clear. Azula wastes no time, closing the gap between them with startling speed. She launches into a five-piece combo, her strikes precise and powerful. Sakura manages to block two of the hits but the remaining three connect solidly with her face and stomach. The pink-haired kunoichi staggers back, her breath coming in short gasps. With a grunt of effort, executes a back jump, putting some distance between herself and azula. In mid-air does sakura's hand darts to her pouch, emerging with a handful of shuriken that she sends flying towards her opponent. Azula scoffs and easily parries the projectiles with a kunai, "Is that all you've got" she taunts, her voice dripping with disdain.

"Crush the weakling.. Show them your power" a dark whisper echoes in the back of her mind as azula prepares to press her advantage. A wicked grin spreads across azula's face as she obliges, picking up her speed and launches into another assault, her movements a blur of strikes and kicks. Sakura tries desperately to block the furious onslaught but azula's relentless attack proves too much. Each hit that lands chips away at sakura's resolve and the worry on the faces of her teammates becomes increasingly evident.

"Come on Sakura.. You can do this" ino mutters under her breath, her hands gripping the railing tightly and her concern growing with each hit. The worry in ino's voice is palpable and it's echoed in the faces of the other rookies but suddenly, a sickening crunch echoes through the arena, followed by sakura's agonized cry.

"Argh!" sakura cries as she stumbles back, blood streaming from her now-broken nose. Azula's eyes gleam with a cruel satisfaction as she presses her advantage, her reflexes lightning-fast and she delivers a powerful kick to sakura's stomach, sending her opponent flying backwards.

"This isn't good.. Azula's not holding back at all" shikamaru murmurs, his usually bored expression replaced by one of concern. Sakura struggles to regain her footing but azula's hands blur through a series of hand signs. She takes a deep breath with her cheeks puffing out slightly, "Katon: Haisekishō" azula thinks to herself, before exhaling a cloud of light-colored ash that quickly engulfs sakura but quickly ignites it with her teeth. Many gasp as the cloud explodes into a fire plume while sakura's body is thrown clear of the blast, her clothes singed and her skin marred by angry red burns.

"Sakura?!" sasuke shouts, leaping down and rushing to her side followed by his sister. Sasuke gently cradles sakura's head in his lap, his fingers trembling as they brushes strands of singed pink hair from her face.

"Sakura.. Can you hear me" sasuke whispers, his voice thick with emotion. He searches her face for any sign of consciousness, his heart clenching at the sight of her burns and bruises. Azula watches the scene unfold with a smirk and her eyes glinting in malice, "Hehe.. Perhaps you should have trained your Pet Better Sasuke" azula sneers, her voice dripping with condescension. Sasuke's head snaps up and his Sharingan blazing to life as he glares at azula, before springing to his feet but kakashi appears to stop him.

"Don't.. This isn't the time or place" kakashi warns, his voice low and stern. Medical ninja rush to collect sakura as azula turns on her heel and saunters away, an air of smug satisfaction surrounding her. Naruto looks to minato and sees the man is more concerned for azula than sakura who was nearly killed by her.

"Your sister is very Cruel" kaguya says her white eyes following azula's retreat.

"She can be and No one curbs it at all" naruto says, his voice low and grim. Sakura is quickly taken away as the board cycles through to sasuke and choji, who immediately forfeits at the look on sasuke's face. Asuma nods approvingly at his student's choice. "Good call Choji.. Go check on Sakura.. I'm sure she could use a friend right now" he says quietly. As choji hurries after the medical team does the board cycles again but this time, it lands on samui and kiba.

"Yahoo.. It's our turn" kiba crows, his voice echoing through the arena. His sharp canines flash in a confident grin as he bounds down the stairs with akamaru yipping excitedly at his heels. Samui makes her way down with her swords across her lower back and a slight glance to naruto, "Watch me.. You too Konan and Kaguya.. Joker is going to win this" she thought, her eyes holding a silent message.

"You're Pretty Hot" kiba says, his voice a mix of admiration and bravado. Samui levels an icy look on her face as she draws her katana with fluid grace. The blade gleams wickedly, its round guard reminiscent of a lightning bolt, while its hilt is a striking combination of white and icy blue.

"Thank you but my Eyes are up here" samui says, her voice cool and controlled as she points upwards with her free hand, her expression unamused.

"Don't worry.. Once I beat you.. I'll take you on a date" kiba declares, puffing out his chest slightly and flashing a cocky grin. Konan and kaguya immediately glance to naruto as anko calls for the match to begin but the blond shakes his head, "Kiba may be a Perv but he won't give Samui a run for her money" he thought, a small smirk playing on his lips.

"Beast Mimicry: All Fours Jutsu" kiba says, his teeth and nails growing sharper with his posture becoming more animalistic.

"He's similar to Big Sister Yugito" samui thought, her grip on her katana tightening slightly. Kiba rushes forward into several furious swipes with his enhanced speed and strength are immediately apparent but samui is ready for him. Her katana moves in a blur, blocking each strike with precision. Sparks erupt from each clash of claw against steel and despite kiba's ferocious assault does samui's superior swordsmanship shines through. She parries his attacks with fluid grace, her movements economical and precise. As kiba overextends on one of his swipes and samui seizes the opportunity. Her blade darts out, quick as lightning and leaving a shallow cut across kiba's arm. Kiba hisses in pain but doesn't relent and he pushes forward, his attacks becoming wilder and more desperate. Samui continues to deflect his strikes, her face a mask of concentration and with each exchange, manages to land small cuts on kiba's arms and torso, slowly but surely wearing him down.

"Not bad" naruto thought, a smile curving his lips. Samui takes a swift back leap, putting some distance between herself and her opponent. Her blue eyes narrow in concentration as she swings her blade downward, "Raiton: Lightning Whip" samui says, her voice ringing out clear and confident. A crackling whip of white lightning extends from her blade, slicing through the air towards kiba. The inuzuka barely manages to dodge, the electric energy singing the edge of his jacket as he rolls to the side. Kiba's eyes widen and realizing the true extent of his opponent's skill, "Akamaru.. I'm going to need you Bud" he says and tosses akamaru a pill, causing the pup to turn red and become a clone of kiba.

"She's capable of White Lightning?!" minato thought, his gaze fixed on samui. The hokage isn't alone in his astonishment as several other jonin and even some of the more experienced genin seem equally impressed.

"White Lightning at her age... That's not something you see every day.. Could she have a Kekkei Genkai" kurenai says, leaning close to asuma and her voice low. Asuma nods with his expression serious, "Kumogakure isn't playing around with this team" he murmurs back. Samui shifts her stance with her sword forward and her legs slightly bent as her eyes dart between kiba but also the transformed akamaru, assessing the new threat. Kiba and akamaru exchange a quick glance before leaping into action. They begin to spin rapidly, their forms blurring into twin tornados of claws and fangs.

"Gatsūga" kiba shouts, hurdling themselves forward. Samui manages to dodge as they crash into the ground but akamaru is on her with rapid swipes and she parries him away as kiba rejoins the fray.

"Kiba has her on the backfoot" konan says, a hint of concern in her voice.

"For now" naruto says, his blue eyes never leaving the fight. Kiba and akamaru go for another gatsūga but samui springs into action by going for the ninken, "Raiton: Lightning Whirlwind" she declares above the din of battle, creating a white whirlwind and hitting akamaru. The ninken yelps in pain as the transformation jutsu dispels while being thrown back, his small form skidding across the arena floor.

"Akamaru?!" kiba shouts, his eyes wide with shock and concern. He immediately abandons his attack and rushes towards his fallen partner. Samui isn't about to let this opportunity slip away, before shooting forward with lightning-fast reflexes and intercepts kiba, bringing the flat of her blade against his side with a resounding smack.

"Raiton: Static Burst" samui says and a burst of white lightning erupts. The inuzuka's body goes rigid, his eyes rolling back as the current courses through him and he collapses to the ground, unconscious.

"Winner: Samui Nii" anko declares and medics come to collect kiba and akamaru. Samui calmly sheathes her sword but turns towards the balcony, her eyes seeking out naruto and his team. A small and satisfied smile plays on her lips as she catches their approving nods.

"Did you see that?!.. I've never seen lightning techniques like that before!" ino whispers excitedly to shikamaru. Shikamaru nods with his usually bored expression replaced by one of keen interest. "Troublesome.. Kumo's genin are on a whole other level" he mutters, but there's a hint of respect in his voice. The next three matches proceed in quick succession, each bringing its own excitement to the arena. Ino faces off against zabuza but determination shining in her blue eyes but her confidence quickly fades as zabuza unveils black march. The blade gleams ominously in the arena lights, its dark surface seeming to absorb the surrounding illumination.

"Sorry.. But you're out of your league" zabuza growls, his voice muffled by the bandages covering his lower face. Ino puts up a valiant fight with her mind transfer jutsu nearly catching zabuza off guard. But the mist genin's superior skills and his formidable new weapon prove too much for the young yamanaka. The match ends with ino pinned against the floor, black march's cold edge pressed against her throat.

"Winner: Zabuza!" anko announces, her voice carrying a hint of respect for the decisive victory. Ino makes her way back to the balcony while nursing her bruised pride do tsubaki and karui take center stage. The two kunoichi face each other, hands resting on their sword hilts.

"Let's see what you've got Leaf ninja" karui challenges, her golden eyes flashing with excitement.

"I look forward to crossing blades with you Kumo ninja" tsubaki responds with a slight bow, her voice calm and focused. What follows is a dazzling display of swordsmanship. The clash of steel echoes through the arena as tsubaki and karui trade blows, their movements fluid and precise, spectators were captivated by the intensity of the match. The match reaches its climax as tsubaki executes a lightning-fast double iaido, drawing both her sword and sheath in one smooth motion. Karui is caught off guard by the unexpected technique, finding herself disarmed and at tsubaki's mercy.

"Winner: Tsubaki!" anko declares, her voice tinged with approval. As the arena is cleared for the next match, an air of anticipation builds but it quickly dissipates as kabuto raises his hand before even facing kimimaro.

"I forfeit.. I'm afraid I'm not up to this challenge" kabuto announces, his voice carrying a hint of fake regret. Murmurs of disappointment ripple through the genin and jonin, but kimimaro merely nods, his expression unreadable.

"Well done Kabuto.. Keep our true strength hidden for now" orochimaru thought, smirking inwardly. The electronic board flickers to life once more and a hush falls over the arena as two names appear of naruto and neji.

"Finally" naruto says, a hint of anticipation in his voice as he sees his name on the board.

"Be careful" kaguya says, taking his coat and her eyes filled with concern.

"She's right.. He might have standing orders" konan whispers, her voice barely above a whisper. Naruto nods and makes his way down as neji does he says but the blond's gaze is on his father, "He hopes the Hyuga puts me in my Proper place" naruto thought, slipping his hands in his pockets.

"This will be interesting" asuma says, lighting a fresh cigarette.

"Show him your Power of Youth!" lee shouts, his enthusiastic voice rings out.

"He is the son of the Yondaime and is quite skilled.. I wonder if he will use his Hunter's Moon Genjutsu" kurenai says, red eyes narrowing slightly as she considers the matchup.

"Hunter's Moon" kakashi inquires, his visible eye betraying a hint of curiosity but there is a hint of anger.

"It's a special Genjutsu created by him and Kaguya.. It is Very real" kurenai says, remembering the shyguy. Naruto and neji stare each down with as anko calls a begin to the match, "You should give up.. Fate has chosen Me as the victor" neji says, his voice dripping with arrogance.

"Fate" naruto says, his tone mocking and amusement glinting in his eyes

"Yes.. Winners and Loser are chosen a birth and one can no escape Fate" neji says, activating his Byakugan with a ram sign. The veins around his eyes bulge, giving him an intimidating appearance. Naruto smiles and leans little forward with his hands in his pockets, "And I must be Loser huh?!... However I am the Son of the Hokage.. I have the blood of Kings from my Mom.. So we'll see how your Fate deals with that" he says, his voice tinged with sarcasm. Neji shifts into his juken stance and naruto remains in his hand-pocket stance as many genin were on bated breath, before naruto makes the first move of a thrust like strike with his right hand as neji narrowly parries it away. Naruto follows with a flurry of left jabs and neji parries each but a sour look forms as sees the blond's tenketsu points were not closing.

"What's the matter.. Not winning as easily as you thought" naruto says with a cocky grin, before neji's head snaps back from what looks like one blow. However in actuality it was an uppercut into a overhand strike as neji staggers back several steps with stars on his eyes. The crowd gasps at the sudden turn of events. as it's clear that this fight is far from the one-sided victory neji predicted.

"The transition between blows was so fast" satsuki says, her Sharingan active and a hint of admiration in her voice.

"That was two punches?!" kurenai says, her expert gaze having barely caught the rapid sequence.

"It was Seamless transition" kakashi says, a little anger bubbling to the surface and the same could be said for naruto's sisters but also hinata as well. Neji shakes himself back in time to dodge a left straight from naruto and counters into a quick strike to his left shoulder but again the blond's tenketsu points do not close.

"I was saving this for the Finals but I will need to use it" neji thought, back leaping to put some distance between them.

"Ranton: Laser Circus" naruto says, firing several laser beams as he links his hands together. Neji grits his teeth and spins on his heel to create a dome chakra as hinata's eyes widen, "He knows a Main House Technique?!" she thought, her mind racing with implications.

"What is that?!" temari says, her voice a mix of awe and concern.

"Don't know but it blocked his Jutsu" shinki says, his tone calm but his eyes sharp. Neji come to a halt and naruto is closing the gap but quickly shifts with one arm forward and the other back, "You have entered my Field of Divination" neji says and shoots forward, "Hakke Rokujūyon Shō" he declares, before striking to close naruto's sixty-four tenketsu points.

"Two palm.. Four palm.. Eight palm.. Sixteen palm.. Thirty-two palm.. Sixty-four palm" neji recites, as he strikes the blond and pushes him back. Hinata clenches her fist on the verge of breaking skin, "He even knows the Hakke Rokujūyon Shō too" she hisses, a mix of anger and disbelief in her voice. Azula and asuka were enjoying each strike naruto is taking but more so azula as finally her fool of a brother would taste defeat. Neji goes for the final strike to finish naruto off as his arms drop and strike his chest but blond grabs his hand to the shock of many. A collective gasp echoes through the arena. Azula's smirk falters and her eyes widening in disbelief, "Impossible" she hisses, her nails digging into her fists.

"I have Nothing bad to say about that attack.. Against Anyone else it would succeed but again Us.. Well it comes up short" naruto says, pulling neji into a knee strike to the gut and the hyuga scion staggers back with spittle coming from his mouth.

"How is he still standing?!" asuka says, her face a mask of frustration. Naruto closes the gap in a lowered stance but weaving in a infinity symbol as neji barely gets up a guard before naruto slams punch after punch in a swaying motion. Neji's guard cracks open and the punches hit his face unmolested until one sends him crashing to the ground.

"Winner: Naruto Nox Fleuret!" anko declares, her voice cutting through the stunned silence of the arena.

"He didn't show much" zabuza comments, his voice low and gravelly.

"Maybe he didn't have to.. One jutsu and everything else taijutsu" haku muses, her gaze shifting to hinata, noting the simmering rage on the hyuga heiress' face. Naruto looks down a neji with a sigh but then to his father, "I have become someone You will Never be able to Ignore" he thought, his jaw clenching slightly. The words weren't spoken aloud but the intensity in his eyes seem to convey the message just as clearly. Medics quickly come for neji and to get medical attention as the remaining genin talk amongst themselves.

"He used the Kyubi's chakra to keep his Tenketsu Points open" minato thought, his brow furrowed in concentration. His mind is racing and analyzing every detail of the fight he had just witnessed. The realization hit him like a physical blow as estranged son had also found a way to counteract one of the hyuga clan's most formidable abilities. It is a level of skill and ingenuity that minato hadn't expected and it left him feeling unsettled.

"Mother's wants to taste his Blood" gaara whispers, his voice barely audible. The bloodlust in his eyes is palpable, sending shivers down the spines of those nearby.

"Mendokusei.. Naruto is skilled enough to overcome the Juken.. That only makes him harder to beat" shikamaru says, his tone a mix of admiration and frustration.

"Kukuku.. I wonder how he'll do against Kimimaro.. Dear.. Dear Cersei wants him dead quite badly" orochimaru thought, also thinking cersei may revoke their deal once she learns azula has been marked. The board begins to cycle around and lee is starting to get agitated as he has yet to fight, "Please let it be me to fight next" lee says, but his hopes were dashed as shikamaru and yodo were chosen.

"Mendokusei.. I have to fight a Girl" shikamaru says, his shoulders slumping. Yodo simply pops a bubble of gum as she makes her way down with her headphones over her ears and her eyes closed. She has long blonde hair to her thighs and wears a dark red full-body suit, under a lavender jacket with a large hood, black gloves with bandages around her ankles and right thigh. The contrast between the two competitors couldn't be more apparent. Shikamaru has a slouched posture and air of reluctance, while yodo exudes an aura of cool indifference. The crowd murmurs in anticipation and wonder how this match will unfold.

"Begin" anko declares, her voice ringing out. Shikamaru immediately uses his shadow paralysis but yodo dodges as the shadow extends, when that doesn't work he switches to tossing kunai and again yodo dodges with ease.

"Mendokusei.. She's moving around too much" shikamaru thought, frustration evident on his face.

"Are you done" yodo says with a hint of challenge, pulling her hood down and revealing her long hair. She grabs her hair and whips it forward to create a sonic boom to the shock of many as shikamaru covers his ears, "High-frequency sound" shikamaru thought, his shirt being torn as he is pushed back. Yodo fires another one as shikamaru moves right and tosses a smoke bomb to extend his shadow once again, adding in two feints but she dodges.

"You two are lucky" kaguya says, her hands pressed firmly against her rabbit ears and looking to her teammates.

"High pitched sound with her hair.. That's impressive" naruto says, a hint of admiration in his voice and his eyes never leaving the fight.

"It's sound.. You managed to dodge even inside the cloud and your headphones are gone.. You have sensitive hearing like Kaguya Otsuki.. You can notice even subconscious movements" shikamaru says, his voice carrying a mixture of frustration and grudging respect. Yodo's lips curled into a small smirk, neither confirming nor denying shikamaru's deduction as he tosses several explosive tags.

"One more" yodo says, whipping her hair forward once. The sonic boom collide with the explosive tags, causing them to detonate prematurely. The resulting explosion fill the arena with smoke and debris but shikamaru takes advantage of this as yodo struggles to look down, "He used the explosion to hide his movements" she thought with realization, as shikamaru points a kunai.

"I-I yield" yodo says, her voice carrying a mix of disappointment and respect. Shikamaru releases yodo as they make their way back up the balcony, the anticipation for the next match begins to build among the remaining genin.

"Impressive of him to overcome Yodo" shinki says, his tone measured but carrying a hint of respect.

"Seems so" temari says, her eyes still fixed on the arena below. The next matches were rapid succession as shinki defeats omoi as he literally talks himself out of facing the suna shinobi. The next matches follow in rapid succession with each one showcasing the unique abilities of the genin. Shinki's battle against omoi is particularly notable, as the kumo ninja quite literally talks himself out of facing the suna shinobi.

"I mean.. What if I slip on the sand.. Or what if it gets in my eyes.. Or worse.. What if.." omoi rambles but is cut short as shinki's iron sand envelopes him, ending the match before it truly began. Buntan's match against shino is a display of elemental mastery with the kiri kunoichi's lightning release turns her into a walking bug zapper, effectively neutralizing shino's kikaichu.

"Sorry bug boy.. Looks like your little friends couldn't handle the shock" buntan quips as she stood victorious, sparks still dancing across green apirl. Shino's face hidden behind his high collar, simply nods in acknowledgment of his defeat. Hinata's battle against araya is a showcase of the Byakugan's perceptive abilities. The hyuga heiress quickly deciphers that her opponent is using a puppet version of himself to fight due to a severe case of stage fright.

"Your chakra network... It's not flowing through the puppet.. I can see the real you hiding behind that wall" hinata explains coldly as she disables the construct with a series of precise gentle fist strikes. Kaguya's eyes lit up with excitement as her name comes up the board, "Finally my turn" she says, as lee cries a fountain of tears. Her opponent jugo makes his way down as naruto whispers something to kaguya and his calm facade slowly fades as the two are now face to face, "You two ready... Begin" anko says, her voice sharp. Jugo tosses off his cloak to reveal black pants and a purple robe with ripped sleeves but he slowly starts laughing, his skin slowly turns darker and his eyes a pale gold.

"Hahahaha.. Sorry Little Bunny but I have to hurt you" jugo says, more mania in his tone. He blitzes forward as kaguya weaves signs to tiger, "Suiton: Suijinheki" she thinks, spewing a wave of water to slow him down and chains more signs, "Raiton: Kangekiha" she adds, electrifying the water. Jugo hisses in rage as he lands in a crouch away from kaguya but flexes his right arm as it changes before everyone's eyes with spiky growths and an axe.

"Freaky.. How's he doing that" ino says, her voice a mix of awe and disgust.

"A Kekkei Genkai of some kind" asuma says with a serious, as jugo rushes kaguya with a few wild swings but the demihuman dodges. Kaguya slams her fists together and a pair of segmented gauntlets form up to her elbows, allowing her to block jugo's downward blow as the ground spiderweb under her boots.

"Hahaha.. Struggle Little Bunny" jugo says as more his skin darkens and sclera turns black, with a black stripe forming from the middle of his forehead and down the bridge of his nose. Kaguya uses her legs with enough force to send his arms up and allowing her slam a front dropkick, her boots slamming into jugo's chest with bone-crushing force. The impact sent jugo flying back several feet, his body skidding across the arena floor. Team 10 watch from the balcony, their faces pale as the scene brought back memories of seeing kaguya's devastating kicks in the forest. Jugo touches his chest and sees an indention of her boots with a wide grin on his face, "Hahaha.. Not Bad Little Bunny" he howls, as his hands gain claws and six jet booster-like appendages erupt from his back.

"I'll Kill you!" jugo shouts, his voice now completely changed while dripping with insanity and bloodlust.

"Will Jugo be able to keep his head" guren says, her voice tight and controlled.

"I'll handle him" kimimaro says but she wasn't so sure. Kaguya shoots forward into a leaping whirlwind kick but jugo gets one of his arms up to block as he skids a little, "It is like a steel beam" she thinks and dodges a downward blow from him. He swings another sweeping blow as kaguya leaps over and slams her hands on the ground for a hurricane kick but it has no effect on jugo.

"Hahaha.. What's wrong Little Bunny.. These kicks are tickling" jugo says, his voice distorted and unhinged. Kaguya lowers her stance and rockets forward into a leaping bicycle kick that staggers jugo as she raises her hands, "Shard Buckshot" she shouts, firing numerous crystalline shards. This intrigues guren as it looks similar to her own crystal release, "Is that this Magic you spoke about" she says her voice barely above a whisper.

"It is.. Naruto knows it as well.. His mother was known as the Oracle Healer from Niflheim" the disguised orochimaru says, a sly smile playing on his lips. Jugo crashes into a wall from kaguya's combination as she reaches him but suddenly raises her hands to create a checkered green barrier as jugo unleashes a blast of chakra from the appendages on his back. The force of the attack sends kaguya crashing back as jugo cackles, "Nice block Little Bunny" he howls, his body already surging forward for another attack. Kaguya fires more buckshot shards but jugo powers through with a fist surging forward and she manages to get her arms up to block, sending her flying back as she catches herself into a weave of signs to tiger.

"Suiton: Mizuame Nabara" kaguya thinks, unleashing a burst of viscous water and jugo's legs get caught as he crashes to his knees. Jugo roars and struggles to free himself as he seems to morph more but kaguya brings out her staff, "Temple of Morpheus" she says, as hazy blue glow erupts. Jugo's eyes roll back in his head and crashes as his body reverts to normal, "Jugo is unable to continue.. Winner Kaguya Otsuki" anko declares, her tone clear and decisive.

"Kukuku.. She managed to overcome Jugo.. Perhaps I should acquire her" orochimaru thought his tongue flicking out to wet his lips and his eyes gleaming with interest. Kimimaro comes to collect jugo as the genin talk amongst themselves as lee prays to kami to be next but by the process of elimination is in his favor.

"Oh youthful Gods of combat!.. Please let me be next!.. Let me prove my worth!" lee prays on his knees, tears streaming down his face.

"Did you see that?!.. She took down that monster like it was nothing!" ino exclaims, her blue eyes wide with amazement.

"Troublesome... She's even stronger than we thought" shikamaru says, his brow furrowed in thought. Kaguya makes her way back to her teammates with her steps steady but there is a slight tremor in her hands that betrays the intensity of the fight she'd just been through. Naruto opens his arms as she approaches with a warm smile on his face and kaguya steps into his embrace, letting out a small sigh of relief as she felt his arms wrap around her.

"I won" kaguya says, her voice muffled against his chest. Naruto gently kisses her forehead and his lips lingering for a moment, "Yeah you did.. You were amazing out there" he replies, his voice filled with pride and affection.

"You were right.. He was brimming with Natural Chakra" kaguya says, after pulling back and her voice low enough that only he could hear. Naruto looks to the downed jugo with a sigh, "Good thing it was you facing him.. He might have killed someone from the rookie teams" he says, his tone serious.

"Yosh!.. It's my Turn" lee shouts, his eyes burning with determination. He pumps his fist in the air and is practically vibrating with excitement. His opponent gaara simply sand shunshins to the arena floor and lee joins him immediately, slipping into his goken stance with a serious look as anko calls for the match to begin. Lee catches the cork of gaara's gourd with a smirk as sand pours out, "You are quite Cheeky" lee says and rushes forward into a leaf hurricane. However gaara's sand blocks the kick and surges forth forcing lee to dodge with somersault into a skid as the sand retreats seemingly on its own. Shino and the members of his team each remember how gaara killed three ame shinobi with seemingly alive sand.

"Is it a sand manipulating Jutsu.. It won't be easy to get through.. However nothing ventured nothing gained" lee thought, his eyes never leaving gaara's. He rushes gaara again as the sand reacts to his various strikes of kicks, knees, elbows and punches. It attacks them from behind and forces lee to draw a kunai to slice as and dodge with several rolls, even reacting to him throwing shuriken from behind.

"Is Shukaku helping Gaara or is it something else" naruto thought, hearing kankuro telling satsuki about the sand and gaara never being hurt.

"Possible.. However He's a bit crazed and really won't readily help.. So it could be something else" veldora says, a low rumble of contemplation. The sand lashes out to catch lee by the leg and tosses him into a wall but misses him as lee closes the gap with several punches.

"He can't use Ninjutsu or Genjutsu" kaguya hears from gai, "So he wanted to face you with Just Taijutsu" she says, her expression thoughtful.

"Taijutsu can overcome others.. Might Gai's father Might Dai defeated a few of The Seven Swords of Mist" naruto says, a glimmer of respect in his eyes.

It's a stain on our history.. Seven of our best.. Taken down by one man.. It's not something we like to remember" zabuza comments with a scoff, his voice low and gravelly but a mix of frustration and grudging respect evident in his gaze.

"My Scumbag brother managed to survive.. Same with Biwa" buntan says, chimed in with a hint of bitterness.

"But I'll give the old man credit.. Might Dai fought like a demon that day.. It's said the ground shook with each of his blows" zabuza adds, a hint of admiration creeping into his tone. Naruto nods while absorbing the information with keen interest, "The power of determination.. It seems to run in the family" he mused, his blue eyes flickering towards lee as he is still engaged in his intense battle with gaara. Zabuza grunts in agreement with his gaze following naruto's. "He's got spirit.. I'll give him that... But spirit alone won't always cut it in this world" he said, watching lee's relentless assault on gaara's sand defenses.

"Still only Hand to Hand.. Most will keep their distance" karui says, quickly clamping a hand over omoi's mouth before he could launch into one of his pessimistic tirades. Lee continues to try and penetrate gaara's defense to no avail, even slipping on the sand and dodging at the last moment to land on the stone hands.

"Alright Lee.. take them Off!" gai booms, filled with unwavering confidence and lee's eyes widen with his bushy eyebrows nearly disappearing into his hairline.

"Are you sure Gai-sensei?!.. You only said to do that as a Last resort" lee says, his voice a mix of excitement and disbelief.

"Now's the time Lee!.. Show them the power of youth!" gai responds with his signature thumbs-up and a gleaming smile. Lee smiles and sits cross legged to remove his leg warmers, revealing leg weights on both his legs before taking them off.

"A bit Old fashioned" naruto says, his voice low enough that only those closest to him could hear. Lee drops the weights and they crash to the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust that engulfs the stone arms. The impact is so great that many gasp in shock, their eyes widening at the realization of just how much weight lee has been carrying. Naruto finds himself covering his mouth to stifle a laugh, his eyes dancing with mirth. But his amusement quickly turns to astonishment as the dust settles and lee bursts into action. Many present were shocked as lee's speed has increased tenfold, shocking gaara as the sand could not keep up. Lee cracks gaara across the face and sends him crashing to the ground to the shock of the suna ninja. Temari's eyes widen in disbelief, "No way.. Gaara's being injured" she breathes, her voice barely above a whisper. Kankuro is standing beside her, could only nod mutely with his face a mask of shock, while shinki remains calm, yodo pops a bubblegum and araya is shocked.

"So he focused solely on Taijutsu.. It would be interesting to face him" naruto thinks, a grin on his face. Lee connects with an axe kick to gaara's face and his usual composure shattered as he staggers back. Lee is riding his success and goes for another leaf hurricane, the spinning kick catching gaara full in the chest, sending him crashing to the ground once more. Lee settles into his goken stance as the dust settles, his chest heaving with exertion but his eyes still burning with determination. Gaara slowly begins to rise and lee's eyes widen in shock as he sees a wide but manic grin spreading across gaara's face. Cracks appear in the sand ninja's skin, revealing a layer of sand beneath.

"Huh?!" lee thought, his confidence wavering for the first time.

"I knew it.. I could tell he was getting unstable as time passed" temari says, as the sand reforms his blank face. Lee slowly loosens the bandages on his hands before ramping up his speed into several revolutions around gaara, culminating in a series kick to lift them several feet off the ground and away from gaara's sand. Lee winces in pain and closes his eyes for moment before wrapping his bandages around gaara, "Omote Renge!" lee declares, slamming gaara into the ground. Everyone watches in anticipation as lee lands with deep breaths and dust cloud dissipates to reveal gaara laying motionless in the crater.

"Did he win?!" ino says, her voice a mix of excitement and disbelief. Anko makes her way to the crater as gaara slowly breaks down into sand to the shock of many as lee's eyes flicker, exhaustion evident on his face.

"An Empty shell.. When?!" ino says, her voice filled with confusion and awe.

"It was the moment Lee closed his eyes in pain" kakashi says, his voice calm but tinged with concern. Gaara slowly rises from the sand, his chuckling growing more ominous by the second. He forms a ram sign and more sand begins to rise around him, swirling ominously.

"Seems Shukaku is influencing him more and more" veldora says, his tone grave. The sand lashes out and sends lee flying as he struggles to move due to the effects of the omote renge, his body trembles and gaara takes advantage with a predatory grin as his sand forms a wave. The wave sends lee crashing into the wall and further lashing him to kick up a lot of sand, "He's toying with him now" kankuro says, seeing his brother licking his lips in anticipation. The dust slowly clears away to show lee on one knee with his hands outstretched in front him and looking worse for wear. Gaara sends his sand forth to grab lee by his limbs to the horror of the konoha rookies but team-11 and the horror of gai, "Now then.. Sand..." gaara says, his voice dripping with malice.

"Enough.. I'm calling the Match" anko declares, her tone brooking no argument. But gaara paid no heed to the proctor's words, his sand continuing to tighten around lee's battered body. A flash of silver cut through the air suddenly and the sand binding lee falls away, severed from gaara's control. Standing between the two combatants is naruto with the katana of the warrior resting casually on his shoulder.

"All that sand must clog your ears.. The proctor has called the match" naruto says, his voice calm but laced with steel while his sword rests on his shoulder.

"N-naruto" lee says, on his knees and his voice weak but filled with gratitude. The tension in the arena is palpable as everyone waits to see how the suna ninja would react to this intervention. Gaara glares at naruto as shukaku howls to kill veldora, many thinking that gaara would lash out and his sand coiling like a snake ready to strike.

"The mood has passed.. Though I look forward to killing you Kyodai" gaara says in a low tone, reforming his sand shield and returning his team. Naruto shunshins back to his team as he could feel the eyes of the konoha teams and jonin on him. Their gazes were a mix of curiosity, concern and in some cases, barely concealed suspicion but no one said anything, the tension in the air still too thick to break. Medics rush to attend to lee, who is barely conscious and gai appears beside his student in an instant, his usual boisterous demeanor replaced by genuine concern.

"Lee my youthful student.. You fought well.. Rest now" gai said softly, his voice thick with emotion as lee is carefully lifted onto a stretcher. The last match of the prelims is called as guren and haku with both showing off their hyoton and shoton respectively. Guren would take the victory by using several dirty tricks but also showing it was no easy feat to overcome her crystals. Anko calls the eighteen finalists or seventeen as sasuke is with sakura as minato gives another speech.

"Congratulations to all of you who have made it this far.. The finals will be held in one month's time.. Allowing foreign daimyo and dignitaries to arrive to witness your skills" minato begins, his voice carrying across the arena and pauses for a moment.

"Use this time wisely.. Train.. Strategize and prepare yourselves for the challenges ahead.. Remember.. You're not just representing yourselves but your villages as well" minato continues, his gaze sweeping over the assembled genin and his blue eyes settling on the finalists.

"Your opponent will revealed one week before and which day of the First two days you will be fighting.. Lastly as I said.. One of you will fighting twice.. Among the Eighteen of you.. The one I believe can handle this task is... Naruto I believe you can handle it" minato says and gets a few looks, "Foreign teams will be allocated hotels and Training Grounds to use for the duration" he adds, a flicker of an unreadable emotion passing across his face and dismisses them.

"Payback for not saving his daughter" veldora says, chuckling with his arms folded in naruto's mindscape.

"Probably.. No Matter I'll defeat who I must" naruto thought in response, his eyes briefly flicking towards kimimaro.

"You have the short end of the stick" konan says, her amber eyes filled with concern.

"Always" naruto muses with a wry smile but sees gai approaching. The usually boisterous jonin's face uncharacteristically serious, "Naruto" gai says and bows at the waist, "Thank you for saving Lee" he adds, his voice filled with genuine gratitude. Naruto ruffles his blond locks with a sigh, "Not a problem.. He wants to fight me and I want to fight him too.. Besides it was the right thing to do" he says, his tone level. Guy straightens and his eyes shine with unshed tears of emotion, "Your actions were most youthful!.. Lee will be overjoyed to know you wish to face him as well.. When he recovers.. I'm sure he'll train even harder!" he exclaims, some of his usual exuberance returning. Naruto nods with a flicker of respect passing across his face, "I look forward to it" he said simply. Despite gai's over-the-top personality, there is no denying the man's dedication to his students. Kaguya steps closer to naruto as gai leaves, "Are you worried about facing two opponents in the finals" she says in a low tone, her rabbit ears twitching slightly. Naruto shakes his head with a small smile playing on his lips, "No... It's an opportunity to show more of what I can do" he replies, his voice confident but not arrogant. As the group make their way out of the tower, the air is thick with anticipation. The month ahead promises intense training, strategic planning and the forging of new alliances.

つづく

AN-2: I'll end things here with the chunin exams first two rounds over with the finalists and naruto facing two foes back to back. The finals will span four to five days allowing konoha to make some money. I hope you enjoyed the fights and the exams so far and next chapter will continue on until the finals, also kushina and rebecca arrive in konoha with the vortex royals completely together. Lastly as you see Azula has the curse-mark and a plan is formulated for it. Thank you for your support and as always Stay Frosty. Byeeee!